The Torch by Alex Ross

In a world where technology blurs the lines between life and artificial existence, a former hero's passing challenges the very essence of humanity. With the Torch's funeral resonating across society, questions arise about the implications of a synthetic being's demise. As memories of past heroics linger, disbelief and curiosity ripple through those he left behind.

The narrative unfolds as friends, enemies, and bystanders grapple with the loss, each reflecting on the nuances of life, legacy, and authenticity. It becomes a poignant exploration of identity, especially when faced with mortality in a realm where resurrection is conceivable. The Torch's story beckons readers to ponder what truly defines a life lived and the scars left in its absence.

Mike Carey intricately weaves a tapestry of emotions, interlacing the Torch's history with the perspectives of those who were affected by him. Through their journeys, the complexities of grief, remembrance, and purpose unravel, inviting readers to contemplate the nature of existence in a world imbued with science and heroism.