ABSTRACT
N ow, with sword in hand, we must face our partner and put the practice of the past seven chapters to work. Prior to this chapter you have been more a threat to yourself than anyone else, but here you take the safety of another in your hands. It is important, therefore, that you have actually practiced and understand the mechanics of footwork, parries and attacks. No matter how many techniques and rules for your safety are established in this text, there is no procedure devised by man that will protect you from carelessness or under-rehearsed techniques. Be sure that you are comfortable and confident, and that you have established safe techniques and habits before you try crossing swords with another actor.
