[Even before Leo's foot contacts nothing but air, he knows he has to move. She's good, he realizes even as he bends his weight-bearing leg to get leverage for a jump. It's not an easy move, especially if he wants to get any height within the available split-second before her counter, so - as always when he fights - he puts every ounce of strength into it. Even with his reflexes, Korra's earthbending-enhanced kick clips his toes.
But he makes it, spinning with agility that makes his shell-laden bulk seem weightless. He lands just within striking range so that she's no longer inside his reach, and before he touches down his katana is already humming through the air in an aggressive set designed to drive her back. His Musashi-based technique is backed by a brutal strength and he presses hard, but never once does he try to actually cut her. His blade intends to cut only air, aiming inches shy of his sparring partner, and his weapon remains faithful to his intent. But they're designed to come perilously close, and he's counting on her to either retreat for her own safety or meet his weapon with an appropriate guard.
He's seen a little of what she can do now, and trusts her to react well. How does a bender contend with a swordsman? Leo's looking forward to finding out.]
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But he makes it, spinning with agility that makes his shell-laden bulk seem weightless. He lands just within striking range so that she's no longer inside his reach, and before he touches down his katana is already humming through the air in an aggressive set designed to drive her back. His Musashi-based technique is backed by a brutal strength and he presses hard, but never once does he try to actually cut her. His blade intends to cut only air, aiming inches shy of his sparring partner, and his weapon remains faithful to his intent. But they're designed to come perilously close, and he's counting on her to either retreat for her own safety or meet his weapon with an appropriate guard.
He's seen a little of what she can do now, and trusts her to react well. How does a bender contend with a swordsman? Leo's looking forward to finding out.]