Both hands grip practice blade, swinging low to clash blade with blade, the awkward positioning causing the Warden to, indeed, stumble a bit before stepping back, feeling naked and vulnerable without his blade.

The ex-Templar realizes Cullen's tactics well, however, and he is well aware that Cullen could easily grab the upper hand here. However, he would not let himself live it down (and neither would Tabris, Maker bless and damn her soul consequently) if he was to lose this fight.

Alistair regains his footing, taking his eyes off of Cullen for a split second-- but a split second is all the other needs, isn't it?