#Chapter 188: Failure

Audrey The following weeks melted together in a whirlwind of training, studying, and late nights. Every Saturday, I met Peter in the woods for shifting practice. Every Sunday, I met with Claudia to work on my thesis. And four nights a week, I trained with Edwin in combat. I practically lived with Edwin at this point, so the combat training was the least of my worries—an hour long session Mondays through Thursdays. On those nights, we would move the furniture out of the way in the living room and practice on a mat he would pull out. “Come on, Audrey,” Edwin goaded. “Show me the new moves you learned.” I narrowed my eyes, focusing on his stance, looking for an opening. When he shifted his weight slightly, I saw my chance. I lunged forward, ducking under his guard and hooking my leg behind his. With a quick twist, I used his momentum against him, slamming him onto the mat. Edwin let out a surprised grunt as his back hit the floor. I quickly straddled h