Narrow Play - Verse 56

When your opponent covers from their right side, seize their sword with your left hand in the manner shown. Strike them with a thrust or a cut. After delivering a strong strike, you may choose to release your own sword and use their sword to cut their face or neck, as demonstrated by the scholar in the following image. Alternatively, cross with the opponent on the right and play the narrow route. With your left hand, grasp the opponent's sword, passing beyond the middle of their blade. Immediately throw your own sword to the ground. Taking their sword at the handle in the middle (between their hands if using two hands, or at the grip), place it against their neck. Position your right foot behind their right foot, and throw them to the ground using their own sword.

If he covers right, my left hand takes his blade with speed and might. I thrust or cut to strike him down, then, if I wish, I throw my sword to the ground. With his own steel, I'll mark his face or throat; the scholar shows you how this play is written. Or cross him right and come in close and tight, my left hand seizes past his blade's midpoint. My sword I cast away without delay; his sword becomes my tool to end this fray. Against his neck I set his weapon's edge, my foot behind his own becomes a wedge. With his own blade, I topple him to earth. His strength becomes the measure of his worth.

This technique applies when you've achieved a crossing on the right side and entered narrow play. The opponent covers defensively from their right, creating an opportunity to control their blade. The multi-option nature suggests this is an adaptable response to various defensive reactions. If they resist the initial attack, the throw provides a decisive conclusion using their own weapon as leverage.

• ✦ The initial sword seizure with the left hand must be confident, and hesitation gives the opponent time to cut with their blade.
• ✦ When striking after the seizure, your right hand maintains control of your own sword while your left controls theirs. This requires good coordination.
• ✦ For the throw variant, releasing your own sword frees both hands to manipulate the opponent's weapon. Practice the transition smoothly.
• ✦ The grip on the opponent's sword handle 'in the middle of their hand' likely means controlling their grip itself, preventing them from releasing or adjusting.
• ✦ Foot placement behind the opponent's right foot creates the fulcrum for the throw; your body weight and the sword against their neck work together.
• ✦ Practice the decision point: after the strike, assess whether to continue with your own weapon or transition to the throw.