"WAKE UP...FIGHT ME...SHOW ME YOUR TRUE NATURE, YOUR POWER!"

Spati's voice cut through my stupor. I snarled and attacked him, kicking at him and freeing my whip from my arm. Of all the weapons I carried it was my favorite, the one that seemed to be a natural extension of my body.

Spati seemed surprised, as I used my whip and wrapped it around his throat, pulling him towards me. "You asked for it!" I snarled.

Spati freed himself from my grasp and came at me again, going for an opening in my defense. I moved faster than I ever had, becoming detached and looking at my stance as if from the outside. I saw every opening, and knew exactly how to defend it and turn attacks against my opponent. I was exhilarated. THIS was what I lived for.

I feinted with my whip, then used my dagger to cut a neat scratch into Spati's arm. The coppery tang of blood filled the air, and I grinned.