The three methods to forestall an enemy

A great swordsman or other artist will have mastered the ability to forestall the enemy. The great swordsman is always "before" his environment. This does not mean speed. You cannot beat a good swordsman, because he subconsciously sees the origin of every real action. One can still see in Kendo practice wonderful old gentlemen slowly hitting young champions on the head almost casually. It is the practiced ability to sum up a changing situation instantly.