Never drop your guard

His plan had been sound and his technique had been executed without flaw. But fate had other ideas, and as Artorias pressed his weight forward, so too did Rudyard, going low while he went high. It was the perfect combination to get Rudy right below his center of gravity, and when his brother pushed forward, Art's back paws lost their footing and he went tumbling to the ground. As soon as he hit the earth, Rudy was standing over him, declaring victory. It was annoying having to accept defeat, but Artorias was nothing if not gracious in his loss—after all, if he was to lose to anyone, he was glad it was one of his family members. "Okay, okay! I yield, you win!" he exclaimed from his back, a disappointed frown on his face, but the wagging of his tail betraying his happiness for his brother's triumph. He rolled back to his paws, shaking the dirt and grass from his fur. "You got me good, Rudy! You might not have been able to sneak up on me, but you still surprised me there!"