Narrow Play - Verse 67

This technique involves locking or trapping your opponent's sword hand with your own sword while maintaining control of their weapon. From this bind, you deliver multiple strikes to the opponent's head. This position also serves as a counter to the 'middle taking of the sword' (mezzano tor de'spada), a technique where the opponent attempts to seize control of the middle of your blade. The bind creates numerous tactical opportunities and is highly effective because it neutralises the opponent's weapon while leaving them vulnerable to strikes.

I have locked your hand with my sword's edge, and struck your head with many blows as my pledge. I counter the middle taking of the blade. This bind I've made gives an advantage in spades. From this nexus springs a multitude of deeds, for he who holds this lock controls what proceeds.

This technique occurs in narrow play (close-distance fighting with swords bound). It specifically counters an opponent's attempt to control the middle of your sword, likely when they are trying to dominate the bind. Once you secure the lock on their hand, they are trapped and unable to defend against head strikes. The position is strategically dominant, offering numerous tactical options.

• ✦ The bind must control both the opponent's weapon and their sword hand simultaneously to prevent escape
• ✦ Once the lock is established, the opponent's head becomes the primary target, as they cannot effectively defend
• ✦ This counter works against an opponent attempting to dominate the middle of your blade. Timing is crucial to establishing your lock first
• ✦ The multiple strikes mentioned suggest maintaining the bind while delivering successive blows, not releasing control
• ✦ Practice maintaining bind pressure while generating power for head strikes. a common challenge in narrow play
• ✦ The 'many deeds' available suggest this position opens multiple follow-up options beyond just strikes