The fact that Donnie's stance doesn't give anything away is a sign that he's good, and he knows what he's doing.

Link approves, and he repays back the opening movement with a quick block.

He circles for a moment, before deciding to go on the attack. He darts forward, making a quick series of forward jabs. It's a movement that's very much more like one would expect from a spear than a staff.

It's a sign that perhaps this particular weapon isn't actually Link's forte. At least, not compared to other weapons.