DURING THE technical portion of fencing class, when we learned to thrust and parry, Annie was sweet and friendly, someone I could commiserate with about learning the moves. But once her mask was on ...

For eight years, my life revolved around clashing blades with skilled opponents. Decked out in white gear and a mask, I became used to the feel of a weapon in my hand as I moved up and down a strip, ...

A blade-wielding horde this weekend began lunging and parrying its way into the city. But no need to flee for your lives. Their weapons are not designed to inflict harm. And they’ve come in search of ...