Page 41 of Memory of Ashes

“Scared?”

“Yes!” He laughed.

“What about her?” Ruven pointed at Amelia.

Valaen’s brows knitted together. “But she’s human… and a she.”

“Oh, you wouldn’t say that to Danae!” He laughed. “Don’t underestimate her.”

“Fine. Let’s go.” He threw the sword at Ruven.

He offered it to Amelia. “Here.”

“He’s massive. There’s no way I can beat him,” she said in a hushed voice.

“Remember what I’ve taught you. He is bigger, yes, but you are faster. Use that to your advantage.”

She glanced down at the sword, hesitating.

She drew a breath and released it in a huff. Her hand clasped the hilt. She walked over to where the big fae stood.

Men had gathered around to see what was happening.

They began circling each other. She waited for him to make the first move.

He lunged, and she leapt back as the wooden sword narrowly missed her. She’d expected it. His comrades taunted him.

He launched a barrage of attacks, his wooden sword slicing through the air as she danced around him, dodging.

Its impact stung the outside of her thigh as he scored a glancing blow. She winced, already feeling the bruise forming.

She spun, and her sword struck his shoulder as he turned to follow, earning a cheer from Ruven. The corner of her mouth twitched.

His movements became sluggish, and that was when she launched her onslaught. He moved back, surprised by her ferocity. Her sword sliced through the air, and he lifted his to parry, just as she slid her leg behind his, knocking him off balance.

He fell to the ground. Before he could rise, she held the point of her sword at his throat.

The surrounding men roared.

She laughed, holding out a hand to the big fae. He took it and stood, sweat pouring down his face.

“You’re fast for a human.”

“Or maybe you’re just slow for a fae,” Ruven teased as he walked over to them.

The men stopped their jeering. They all went quiet.

“It’s my turn.”

She turned to the voice.

Casyl stood at the edge of the group, holding the other wooden sword. Unable to meet his gaze, she turned her back, but the thought of hitting him with a sword was too appealing.

“Fine,” she said, tucking her hair behind her ears. She took her fighting stance.

He winced as he took off his jacket. Good, she thought.

The men were quiet as they watched them. No cheering or taunting this time. Casyl was their leader.