Cody's words were a mixture of determination and a heartfelt plea that might have convinced any ordinary person to change their mind.

However, Maximus was quick to react. He raised his hand and slapped Cody across the face, yelling, "You talked too much!"

Cody's head spun, and his mouth was knocked open. He was dizzy, and his nose was bleeding.

"You ... how dare you hit me?" Cody blurted out. He covered his throbbing face with his hands, trying to comprehend what was happening.

As the young