‘Be sure to use the forte of the blade against the debole of your opponent’s,’ explained Signor Horatio, first indicating the stronger half of the rapier near the hilt, then the thinner weaker section towards the tip. ‘This gives you the leverage you need in your parry. And, by keeping contact, you maintain control of your opponent’s blade. Now you try, signor.’

Jack waited for Signor Horatio’s thrust. As the attack came, slow and steady, he met the debole with the forte. Signor Horatio’s sword was deflected off-target while his own struck home in the middle of the sword master’s chest.

‘Bravo! A perfect parry and riposte,’ congratulated Signor Horatio. Jack smiled at the praise. ‘Now to do it at speed!’

Slow had been easy. Fast was an entirely different matter. It took Jack several attempts even just to catch the blade, let alone deflect it. By comparison to his katana’s broader blade, the rapier’s slender strip of steel was almost impossible to see coming. As their rapiers tangled, Jack missed his target yet again. Cursing in frustration, he lowered his sword.

‘Don’t despair, Jack,’ encouraged Signor Horatio. ‘Like any martial art, fencing takes practice. Rarely does anyone master it first time.’ He turned to Akiko. ‘Now, signorina, let’s see how you do.’

Signor Horatio thrust his rapier at her. With a deft touch, Akiko deflected the attack and landed a strike dead centre upon his heart. Signor Horatio’s eyes widened. ‘Magnifico! Perhaps one can master it first time. Why have I not taught women before? Your skill is astounding, signorina!’

Akiko bowed humbly. ‘I’ve had the benefit of watching Jack first.’

‘Pah! You’re a natural!’ said Signor Horatio, as she repeated the feat. Jack merely smiled, accustomed to Akiko’s talent at picking up new techniques.

After several more rounds of practice, Signor Horatio announced, ‘It’s time you two had a duel. En garde!’

Jack and Akiko stood in the centre of the courtyard, both in warding stances, their rapiers outstretched, their eyes locked. Despite being no match for her innate skill with a rapier, Jack couldn’t help but feel elated at their imminent duel. Once again he was reminded of the Niten Ichi Ryū and of all the times he’d trained with Akiko and his other friends, like Saburo, Emi and his late Japanese brother-in-arms Yamato. While the samurai school had been tough, challenging and at times unbearable, it had also been a place of friendship, love and loyalty. He knew Akiko missed Japan – but he was slowly coming to realize that he did as well.

‘Allez!’ called Signor Horatio, commencing the duel.