He was undaunted nonetheless, and sprang to his feet with drawn sword. Perceval leapt up, too, ready to defend himself. Then you’d have seen a bitter contest – none so cruel was ever witnessed. Both of them were exceptional, battle-hardened
knights, and assailed each other with their well-honed swords, every blow that landed making the bright blood flow. Attack after attack, blow after mighty blow and many a wound they dealt. But Partinal showed no fear: clutching his sword in both hands he performed so well that any man who saw him would have said there was never a finer knight; and Perceval likewise: all the people of the castle, of every degree, declared they’d never seen his equal and knew of none in all the land – such an accomplished knight was nowhere to be found.

Their combat lasted from prime till almost noon. So many awesome blows they dealt with their blades of steel: their hauberks were cut to ribbons – neither had a patch of mail left big enough to cover a hand – and both were now bereft of shield and helm. They were both in serious trouble now: time and again they sank to their knees or collapsed full length on the ground, as the people could clearly see from the windows of the hall and chambers, watching the battle from which neither knight would flinch.But there’s no point going on and dragging it out! Victory went to Perceval by the will of the king of glory. He brought Partinal to the ground before him and said the battle was over if he’d surrender as his prisoner.

Third Continuation of Perceval