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Rule 13 — Four Streets

Source Text

There are many opinions for a montante wielder which originates from being attacked in an intersection (in this way, two streets seem to be four). And if the battle has to be given where said streets meet, making four corners, then in my opinion, I would not do that in this place, but by Rule Ten which deals with being surrounded.

If I am told that the battle started in the beginning of the street, and the opponents backed off until they arrived at the four corners, and the enemies go again on each side (or only one) and will be able to injure him from the side, I say that in this case the montante wielder takes note that when he gives battle and they arrive to said corners, he seeks to remain in the middle of the street, so he has enough room in order to work.

If I am told that it is necessary to turn the corner, the same should be done to give battle until gaining all of the front of the street where the opponents are gathered. If I am told that one necessarily has to turn close to the corner, it is easy to send the montante in front, stitched to the wall with a thrust, extending the arms as much as he can, and then continue the rule that will be necessary for the occasion. The rest is folly, making flourishes while a person's life hangs in the balance.

Summary

  1. Avoid the intersection itself: Fighting at a four-corner intersection leaves you exposed on multiple sides. If battle is joined there, apply Rule Ten for being surrounded.
  2. Stay in the middle of the street: When opponents push you toward the intersection, hold the center of the street — more room to maneuver and defend.
  3. Move to the front: If opponents are stationed at the corners, advance to the front of the street where they are gathered rather than letting them flank you.
  4. Turning a corner: If you must turn close to a corner, send the montante forward with a thrust pressed to the wall, arms fully extended, then continue with whatever rule the situation demands.
  5. No unnecessary flourishes: With your life at stake, perform only effective technique. Godinho's view: anything else is folly.