The First of Many

[Etherius Yvvera]

Etheriud watched as Korogum got into the same stance and prepared for the fight that was about to occur. As Korogum let his first few jabs loose at Etheriud, Etheriud used some of his old fencing knowledge to block the jabs as best as he could; finding it difficult to block as effectively when the strikes were more calculated than Shii-Cho. Seizing the moment, Etheriud stabbed at Korogum's own attack and knocked Korogum's blade to the left; using this moment of confusion to jab his own blade at Korogum's right, exposed side. While he knew that he wouldn't land a hit on Korogum, he figured this was as perfect a time as any to get in as much practice as he could attempting to land killing or critical blows on his enemies.

 

[Korogum]

Korogum, upon having his blade swept aside by Etheriud's strike, backstepped swiftly enough to flourish his saber, spinning it into Etheriud's strike, pushing his weapon further into the sweep as Korogum stepped forward again, taking the fencing stance as naturally as he could, sending another series of strikes against Etheriud's blade, this time with a little more force in each one to try and keep his ally pressured.

 

[Etherius Yvvera]

Etheriud realized after Korogum's deflection of his attack that he stood little chance in truly pushing an attack on Korogum and thus would have to rely on intuition and tact rather than strength. Etheriud let himself relax as Korogum began another barrage, intercepting his attacks with strikes and blocks to knock his strikes off to the side or back into him. Etheriud would use his speed and wit to win through a strong defense rather than a strong offense. Etheriud continued to parry and dodge Korogum's attacks while sidestepping and moving around Korogum; trying to mimic dueling forms and techniques that he could recall from his childhood. As Korogum went for another strike, Etheriud met his blade with his own and entered into a saber lock with Korogum; hoping to reach a stalemate.

 

[Emperor Xhinx]

Witnessing a stalemate, Xhinx had to interfere again. The duel was not going anywhere, but there were learning greatly. "Excellent, I'd say that is enough for now. I am seeing great progress. Now we will rest and prepare for further training. During your down time, if you wish to practice the forms I taught you, I would endorse that." After speaking these last words, Xhinx left the group and retired to his section of the compound.