I won't give in, til I reach the end, and then I'll start again

He noticed the incredulous look in her expression when he began his bobbing and weaving motions. "In battle, a lot of work is in your feet," he explained to her. "Depending on how you and your opponent move can make the difference between whether you get hit or dodge an attack, or if your attacks are successful." Fortunately, Tika seemed to be quick on the uptake, and as she began trying to mimic his motions, Artorias watched with an approving smile and a nod. "Yeah, just like that!" She was doing well! No sooner had he thought that, he saw her land on her paw funny and give a growl, ears pinning back with a wince; that didn't look like it felt good. "Since we're just training we can take it easy. If you're in a real fight, don't hold back. Give your all to beat your enemy. Footing is very important, but strategy and knowing how you plan to fight your opponent is just as important."

Beaming with a wide smile, Artorias came closer to Avantika and offered her a little nudge with his forehead to the side of hers in a nuzzling gesture. "You're doing great, Tika! A little daily practice and you'll be as good as Mom and Mama in no time!" The boy laughed softly, then took a few strides back to give her some space. "Is your paw okay? Feel like practicing some moving and dodging with a spar? Now that you know a little bit about how to sidestep and shift your weight around, see if you can use it to avoid my attacks. If you're ready, of course!" Artorias was more than happy to work at Avantika's pace. He was just happy to have someone to practice with; he was often left alone to his own training.