Raising her weapon, she stood in a ready stance with her eyes fixed on him. Attempting to watch for any change in his body, any subtle reaction that would give him away or a clue to what his first attack might be.

She had been trained well, and even wondering if she had made a foolish decision here, she knew not to make the first move. Attacking rashly gave the opponent the chance to gauge your strength and skill, defence allowed you the advantage.

It seemed they were at an impasse.