Then Sir Lasancis propped his lance against a tree, and the two knights gripped their swords and began a dangerous battle. The knight, who had great prowess of his own, struck Tristano's shield so hard that wherever he struck, that part was knocked on to the ground, and Tristano struck him on the helmet but did not damage him at all, for his sword just bounced off. Nonetheless, the struggle between the two knights was a great one. Tristano was wounded in every part, and his armor was sliced to shreds; and all of the blows he gave Lasancis were useless and did no damage to his armor, it was so thoroughly enchanted.

But neither could Lasancis overcome Tristano. He marveled greatly that the young knight had the breath and strength to endure against him. Queen Ginevara and the ladies and aged knights who were watching held Tristano for dead, and indeed both knights were exhausted. Gladly they rested after the first assault.

In a little while, they began the second, and continued to fight until daylight was gone.

La Tavola Ritonda