226 To the House of Flames

Blade bared, Arran slowly circled Doran, search for an opening in his opponent's defense. Even if it was just a friendly competition, he did not treat it lightly. Bad habits were hard to shake, and any carelessness picked up in training would show itself in battle.

While Doran used a two-handed grip to hold his sword, Arran used only his right hand. With his strength returned, there was little need for him to use both hands, and his new style somehow seemed more suited for single-handed combat.

Doran was the first to move. In a quick combination, he launched a series of three strikes, two feints followed by a powerful attack.

Arran blocked the attack effortlessly, then used Doran's momentum to make an attack of his own. Before the adept could recover, Arran's blade already lay against his neck.

They both stepped back, then began to circle each other once more.