Oh, yes, they are tests. Meliantha's still not feeling well, but she's still a skilled fighter, and her world trains the dedicated fighters in as many weapons as they can. (and sometimes, you just need to fight with a long stick.)

She gives him tips and encouragement - and points out flaws - as they go, and at one point goes for a strike right at his hand, with her full speed, to see his reaction. It's a risky maneuver - Blaine can tell that if it fails badly enough, there's going to be a huge opening.