Thalia lunged at Aurelius with everything she had.
He dodged with a smirk, moving just enough that her fist passed harmlessly through empty air. Before she could recover, he swept her feet out from under her in one smooth motion.
She hit the ground hard, the air leaving her lungs in a rush. Pain shot through her hip where it connected with the packed earth and she glared up at him, wincing.
Aurelius laughed, offering his hand. "Again?"
She ignored the hand and pushed herself up, brushing dirt from her pants. This was a mistake. She was already beginning to regret agreeing to this entire thing.
After they'd arrived at the clearing, Aurelius had set everything up with practiced efficiency. He'd spread two thick blankets on the flattest patch of ground, anchored the corners with smooth r
