I'm glad you seem to hold the same sentiment, though I have to admit I was wondering if it was part of a ploy to make an attempt on my life where no one would see.

{ he laughs under his breath }

But for now, let's see what happens, shall we?

{ while they may have started by partially assessing one another, sussing out movements and trying to predict attack patterns, ayato is actually a little glad to be able to let out his frustration on someone he doesn't particularly mind if he pushes too far with. it's actually a relief, to fight someone who he doesn't have to be overly careful with. he'd spar with ayaka or thoma for fun, but it isn't quite the same as letting loose consequences be damned.

the smile slips away, replaced by his own unreadable expression as he hand moves to his side, drawing his sword. it's likely a surprise how fast he starts, and while he may be guarded to any counters that come his way he actually does not hold back at all. it's intense from the get go, from the moment his sword is drawn to him dashing forward so quickly childe may feel as though if he blinks he'll miss the movement.

granted, it isn't all one way. ayato is surprised momentarily at the shift from bow to dagger as well, stepping back and out of the way as the change comes to reassess his next movements, next opportunity for attack.

if anyone were to stumble upon this they'd likely be bewildered as neither man seems to let their guard drop, water splashing all over the ground, in the air, it almost sounds like waves crashing as they both use hydro to try and best the other. }