Sabine took the waterskin in one hand and made her way to the opposite edge of the fighting area to Wutanxeex. She looked across at him with alertness, but not panic. She kept that hidden in her heartbeat and her shakes. The strength potion had taken effect, so she felt springier on her feet, but this poison could hinder her coordination greatly. She did not specifically know. There was nothing else for it. Sabine uncorked the waterskin and drank down the poison. It was a sour brew, but she expected as much. As soon as she swallowed the last of it, she dropped the waterskin, held her staff in both hands and dropped into the guard stance that Lorag had taught her.

"Sabine is stronger than she looks. I think she still has a chance." Janius said, looking intently at the bout. Despite his words, he held Kaleeth's hand tightly. He was still worried. If Sabine was to be badly hurt, he felt as if he should take Zharanthixil's memorial skulls and smash them against a rock. When he realised that it was vengeance he was thinking of, he stopped himself, but another thought arose from the idea. Perhaps that was what Zharanthixil himself needed. If his sadness wasn't constantly reinforced by the skulls each day, then perhaps...

Wutanxeex and Sabine began to circle one another, sizing each other up. Sabine had picked a longer weapon, so she would have some reach, but the boy was taller than her. Perhaps reach wasn't the best option. She had strength over him... probably. He had skill though. If she was cautious, she might be able to make it work. Suddenly, Sabine staggered sideways, regaining her balance quickly. The poison was taking effect. Her mind slowed as well, she could hardly think further on what to do. Her vision started to lose focus, but she kept in position. Her hesitation cost her the initiative as she observed Wutanxeex rapidly stepping forward.