En garde.
Sidestep, slash, parry, thrust. Step back, spin. Snick. Cut self again. Halt. Potion. Bandage. Back in position.
En garde.
Sidestep, slash, parry, thrust. Step back, spin... Didn't cut self this time, but don't get cocky, dodge—trip, fall. Nearly impaled. Halt. Shake it off. Back in position.
En garde.
Sidestep... slash, parry... thrust? Tap. Halt. Let your guard down and it's curtains for you. Back in position.
En garde.
Sidestep. Slash. Parry. Thrust. Exhausted. Tap. Halt. A frown says continue, but the blades falter. Done for today.
Next day. Back in position. A flash of determination.
En garde.
