CHAPTER NINETY SIX - THE FIRST TRANSFORMATION

A week had passed since John had regained enough strength to move about the manor grounds more freely. As Karina strolled hand-in-hand with him through the crisp autumn air, she couldn't help but marvel at his continued progress. The treatments seemed to be steadily restoring his vitality, the haunted look in his eyes giving way to a renewed sense of determination. Karina's heart swelled with pride at how far he had come—and she knew Lady Becky had taken notice as well. Sure enough, when they arrived at the secluded training field that morning, Becky was already there, sharp eyes scrutinizing John from head to toe as he stood before her. After a tense moment, she gave a curt nod of approval. "Your resilience does you credit," she said gruffly. "I deem you fit to move to the next stage of your metamorphosis." Turning her steely gaze to her daughter, Becky's expression was inscrutable. "Zaya. Guide him through the transformation. You know what is at stake should he fail to maintain c