[ That gets -- heavens above -- a small smile and a nod of the head. ]

You'd be along the right track if you were swinging a blunt weapon. A staff or a hammer, perhaps. You're not too far in the wrong direction, though.

[ She heads over to where the practice blades are stacked and grabs one for herself, handling it lightly and confidently. ]

Would you like a demonstration before we carry on?