Another half step backwards, the slight tenseness in his leg a prelude to things to come. The Northman shook his axe, however without another moments pause his intent became more than clear. The back right leg provided sufficient force as his right shoulder threw itself into another throw. Not overextending by any means, Sigurd let fly his axe over the top of his own shield, aiming dead centre to give himself the best chance of biting flesh. However, his hand did not pause as the haft left its grip, sinking low and leftward in one move so fluid it must have been practiced countless times. The right foot brought him forward as his right hand clenched itself into a fist around the hilt of his blade.

In one final simultaneous motion his right foot landed on the soft earth and took the lead from the left as his blade was drawn from its scabbard with a leathery rasp strangely unsuitable for the intensity of the act. To compliment this drawing his left hand twisted rightward and the shield in his hand turned horizontal to allow passage for the blade under its form. If his enemy remained in range the point of the longsword would sweep across his body with significant force, the end close enough to pierce a few inches into his lower right side or arm if it blocked the blade’s path. However, expecting his foe to have the speed necessary to escape the arc, or even advance upon it should he be mad enough to risk sacrificing his body, Sigurd intended to finish with his right hand parallel to his side, the blade pointing forward and between the two warriors. If the unexpected occurred and he was in position to however Sigurd’s blade work may well change.