Disclaimers on everything that I don't own.

Basics,

By Winterwing3000

Parry, block, and retreat.

The first three basics of fencing.

Sesshomaru stood at the entrance of the practice hall, where agirl, daringly enough, was striking out her foil with strong elegance. She, his grown ward, was quite amusing actually, always determined and quick-witted to defeat her opponents. Her think brown ponytail was swishing to every side as she moved.

"You know, examining my moves would not make you a better opponent, Sesshomaru-sama." Rin told him as her right arm fell down to her side.

"Then perhaps you would like to accept a challenge?" he said to her, walking over to the glass cabinet lined with foils, rapiers, and long swords. Examining the gleaming steel, Sesshomaru decided to take out the light weighted rapier that fitted perfectly in his hands.

"Still after the duel you proposed last week?" the girl said, quite shocked as she removed her armor. It would be unfair to be protected with the metal while he wore nothing but his haori.

Sesshomaru tied up his long hair, then strutted over to her.

Holding out her foil, she waited for him to check, which he did and they ensued in a friendly duel.

They matched; blow for blow, step for step, and speed for speed. Rin knew that her lord was holding back, but she still every now and then, forced him not to. However, due to her deep concentration, she lost her footing and Sesshomaru managed to knock her sword of her hands and held his against her throat.

Such a slender throat… it would be sad to see the sharp tip run its lips across her soft skin. Sesshomaru's eyes softened at the corners for a quick second, then vanished, replaced with the normal impassive look.

Frowning and glaring at her victorious opponent, she heaved for a breath and was tempted to knock away his offered hand, but took it anyways and allowed him to pull her up.

"You did very well Rin. However, next time, this Sesshomaru expects you to concentrate less on whatever was in your mind and focus more on your opponent's movements and openings. Then you would not commit such a fault."

"Of course, Sesshomaru-sama…"

Note: Rin's 16, Sesshomaru's 700+.

This is for the LJ Community "30kisses" without the underscore. The theme is #25 (fence).