Auron's gaze did not falter from the creature standing before him. He maintained his focused attention on his opponent and knew that no words were to be spoken. Whether his inhuman adversary was able to speak or not, he was not certain...but clearly, words would be meaningless here and now. He had received the answer that he had been looking for, that this was the opponent that he had challenged, and that he was ready to show him the truth path of the sword.

The dragon observed Meats' assumption of the Ox stance, bladed raised high and pointed toward him. The distance was closing slowly...and he needed to prepare himself. He reached behind him and quickly grasped the hilt of his own large blade. He unlocked the latch that kept the blade in place with one of his claws and he withdrew the blade from its belted resting place. The sword's familiar weight in his hands, he lifted it over his shoulder, keeping a firm grasp on the hilt that was large enough for two hands...but he only needed one to keep it and keep it balanced.

Auron was well-versed in the classic, standard stances of swordplay. However, he was not a traveler and a sellsword for no reason. After enough practice, he had developed his own, unique sword style. He raised his weapon up, holding the hilt down in front of his waist and tilted slightly to the side. He followed now specific or pre-known stances...he wielded his own blade as he himself desired to wield it. This way, he felt as though he were not limiting himself to what other great swordsmen have developed. He would never stand out the way he wanted to using the styles of previous masters. That was why he had originally set out...and now would be the perfect chance to test his training; to pit his new style against the well-distinguished swordplay styles. If he could win this, then he would prove himself.

He stood and waited...waited for his opponent to inch closer. He was starting to gamble with this...he needed to wait as long as he dared before he struck. The closer his opponent became, the easier he would be to strike. However, at the same time, the closer he was, the easier it was to be struck. He needed to be on guard...and watch his enemy's every movement. He was ready...this fight was now underway.

...But who was to make the first move?