Redtail Rise melisma

He fell entirely into Avicus' trap. Ashlar had played enough to gain enthusiasm but not enough to gain any measure of skill. He was naive in the ways an opponent could deceive and in the ways that footing could betray. She sent him tumbling deftly.

His features were still alight with silent laughter, though, as she took the advantage. He wouldn't grab for her muzzle but instead tried to fend off her blows by nipping at her forepaws. After only a couple of playful attempts, he shifted sideways. He didn't have enough weight behind it to move much, but if he managed to catch her surprised, perhaps he could shift the situation so that he could gain the upper ground.

Really, if she wished it to be, the fight was over here. There was nothing he could do, with his current unwillingness to push, that would release him should she choose to keep him pinned.