Sorry I'm late posting, but there is a book called Samurai The Philosophy of Victory by Robert T Samuel with a section called the History of the Taia Sword "I do not see the enemy and the enemy does not see me" which I have found helpful at solving those tricks, which is what they are, and how they work!

I am glad you enjoyed that passage, malign. I have not really posted much in my blog, but I am really impressed at your efforts here. Perhaps I will try start blogging some more myself.