It involves crossing the blades and locking the hilts, forming an X. One can "catch" the sword in the V of the two blades and effectively neutralize the blow. It is most often used by Rangers to fight close-combat with a swordsman. It is rendered completely ineffective when facing a person wielding an axe. During their "trip" to Celtica, Gilan teaches this defense to Horace and Will. Horace then uses it as a last ditch maneuver to kill Morgarath, which he does successfully.