Duster didn't have much training against swords. It wasn't a common weapon in the Nowhere Islands, considering the lack of weapon-oriented blacksmiths and the general acceptance of using heavy sticks to fight. The way a sword was swung differed from the way lumber was used, and the strike was unexpected. Duster ducked in the best direction he could guess, but Tazendra ended up striking him in the shoulder.

He stepped in the directing the blow pushed him, gaining his balance in the meantime. With a second to prepare, he rushed at her, now aiming with a high jump kick.