Among the half dozen preliminary matches, there were just three that ended quickly for Qatrand. In one, the hammer wielder's overhead strike met empty air as the swordswoman stepped aside.
This was the second hammer user and after three clean dodges, her practice blade found the opening in their recovery in each. Swift taps that seemed as if the blade just *happened* to be there ended the match even before their opponent could bring their weapon back to guard.
In another, a medium blade user - the first non heavy weapon fight - proved more challenging. They continued forcing exchanges that locked their weapons together with the intent to snake their weapon around hers.
The crowd's murmurs grew when their favorite simply pushed forward with her strong legs during the second blade lock. The Yecine matched their opponent's attempt to twist their wrist while using her raw strength to force them out past the duel field's boundary.
