Then snatching the cloak from his throat he wound it over his left arm to serve as a shield, and with a savage yell, rushed straight at Aziel, purposing to transfix him with the broad-headed spear.
Well was it for the prince that he had been trained in sword-play from his youth, also, notwithstanding his slight build, that he was strong and active as a leopard.

To await the onslaught would be to die, for the spear must pierce him before ever he could reach the attacker's body with his short sword.

Therefore, as the weapon flashed upward he sprang aside, avoiding it, at the same time, with one swift sweep of his sword, slashing its holder across the back as he passed him.
With a howl of pain and rage the savage sprang round and charged him a second time.

Again Aziel leapt to one side, but now he struck with all his force at the spear shaft which his assailant lifted to guard his head.

So strong was the blow and so sharp the heavy sword, that it shore through the wood, severing the handle from the spear, which fell to the ground.