The man lunged, but Tristan quickly brought up his sword to meet the dagger. Sparks flew as they clashed, crackling and leaping into the air like burning embers amongst the ash. The man struck again, three blows in quick succession, each one forcing Tristan to step back even with the advantage of his longer blade. Tristan swung his sword but the dagger countered, twisting round his blade with unnatural speed. Again Tristan drew back, blocking again. He was not prepared for this. He should have followed his father’s orders.
The man jumped towards him, dagger raised two-handed above his head. Tristan raised his sword, bracing the tip of the blade against his palm. He met the attack, but it jarred him to his core. His knees buckled and he felt his feet slip out from underneath him. As he fel
