I don’t think that’s what the OP is asking. I think the OP wants to just hold the sword with one hand even if the other hand is empty. At least that’s what I understand from reading it.
That is what I get for posting with insomnia. I misread and you are correct. RP reasons and the Dueling style would be reason enough to use these weapons with one hand. 1d8+2 gives more damage than 1d10 if you are like me and always end up with crap rolls for most things. Hopefully they fix this soon.
