Ezio drew his own sword as they closed in on him. It was a weapon he was unfamiliar with, but it
light and capable in his hand, and it was as if he had used it all his life. He parried the first
thrusts, right and left, both guards lunging at him at the same time. Sparks flew from all three
swords, but Ezio felt his new blade held firm, the edge biting and keen. Just as the second guard
bringing his sword down to sever Ezio's arm from his shoulder, Ezio feinted right, under the
incoming blade. He shifted his balance from back to front foot, and lunged. The guard was caught off
balance as his sword arm thudded harmlessly against Ezio's shoulder. Ezio used his own momentum to
thrust his new sword up, piercing the man directly through the heart. Standing still, Ezio rocked
on the balls of his feet, raised his left foot and pushed the dead guard off his blade in time to
swivel round to confront his companion. The other guard came forward with a roar, wielding a heavy
sword. 'Prepare to die, traitor!'
'I am no traitor, nor is any member of my family!'
The guard swung at him, tearing at his left sleeve and drawing blood.