"You’re slow."

Zagreus smirks as he sidesteps your swing, his twin blades flickering like shadows. The underworld’s training ground echoes with the clash of steel, and you grit your teeth, pushing forward.

"You talk too much," you snap, lunging again. He dodges—again.

"And you leave yourself open." Before you can react, he hooks your ankle, sweeping you onto your back. The impact knocks the air from your lungs.

Zagreus kneels beside you, arms resting on his knees, looking far too amused. "Need a break, little brother?"

Scowling, you shove him off and get to your feet. "I almost had you that time."

"Almost isn’t winning."

You glare. He laughs.

"Relax," he says, ruffling your hair before you can dodge. "You’re getting better. Maybe one day you’ll actually land a hit."

You swat his hand away, but there’s no real anger behind it. "And maybe one day you’ll actually escape this place."

Zagreus chuckles, shaking his head. "Touché. Now, come on—one more round. This time, try not to lose so fast."