Prompt from SheWhoScrawls: Fencing
"Bar fencing and boxing I had few athletic tastes, and then my line of study was quite distinct from that of the other fellows...
~Holmes in The Gloria Scott, ACD
The musical clang of steel against steel filled the arena and a flickering glint reflected off the rapidly darting blades. It was a fair match. Holmes eyes narrowed, his lips set firmly, his expression impenetrable. His blade dipped low then flicked upward. His opponent stepped back and met his upcoming blade. Sabres crashed.
"Why don't you give up before you start bleeding," his opponent's voice was low, challenging
"Blood is merely a bit of proteinacous fluid mixed with oxygen-laden haemoglobin. I can spare a drop if it means spearing this blade through your heart."
The other man roared and lunged forward, his blade thrust in front.
Holmes stepped aside. His foe went hurtling past him. "I dare say your heart is important but don't lose your brain over it." The slender young university student resumed his defensive posture. His grey eyes glinted in anticipation.
~o~
"Holmes, why did you choose boxing and fencing in University rather than hunting or archery?" Watson and Holmes were enjoying a rare moment in 221B, relaxing in front of the hearth.
"Well, Watson, at the time, it seemed logical. Swords and fists do not run out of bullets and arrows."