in the elegant world of fencing, every time you grip your épée, it's like you whisper the access code to a secret society where honor and agility reign supreme. but here's a piece of advice to hold close: never abandon the guidelines laid out by masters of the sport, even if it means you have to start over again from the basics. consider this your preexplanation; understanding the rules fully gives you the real access code to mastering the art, moving beyond mere competition to a form of self-expression.