The Wall of Swords is an Order of the Rose creation, designed to be a barrier. It’s typically used on bridges or in corridor fighting due to the finite amount of space and maneuverability. 

The idea is by having some fighters kneel (typically with short swords) and other fighters stand between them (typically with long swords), you create a double layer of swords. 

The kneeling fighters focus on defending the wall and keeping the opponents’ blades busy or attacking legs and arms. The standing fighters focus on picking off enemies who get too close to the Wall.

Basic Wall of Swords Setup

Have fighters sit or kneel in a line until the available space is filled. Afterwards, have the remaining fighters place their lead foot between a pair of kneeling fighters. This is important because it allows the standing fighters the maximum amount of range while remaining in a position to defend the kneeling teammates. If there are any remaining members of your team who are unable to fit in the Wall of Swords, they should wait and fill in spaces as they happen.

Performing a Wall of Swords

The Wall of Swords is a Defensive tactic that is useful against a Falling Wedge and Rush Attacks because of the kneeling fencers who are in the way. After setting up a Wall of Swords, the main goal is to let your enemy come to you. Reckless Cowboys should not be part of a Wall of Swords. Each fencer is waiting for an opponent to get too close and will either be attacked from below or attacked from above. Any gaps that form should be filled in quickly by teammates who are standing by.

Situation 1

The enemy is focusing on the kneeling fighter. As they strike at a kneeling fighter, either standing fighter should be waiting to reach out and kill them. The kneeling fighter will be focused on defending himself and blocking the incoming blade which will leave the enemy open for the standing fighters.

Situation 2

The enemy fighter is focusing on the standing fighter. The kneeling fighter’s responsibility is to defend his teammate, so he should either intercept the incoming blade with his own or strike at his opponent’s outstretched arm or leg.

Attacking a Wall of Swords

Similar to a Kill Pocket, your goal is to pick apart the Wall quickly and push through the Wall before the enemy can regroup. This can happen through a committed effort to press your opponent’s and kill as you can in a short period of time. When that opportunity arises, you should be able to push through and kill any remaining opponents left in the Wall of Swords.

Journal Prompt

How does the Wall of Swords differ from a Kill Pocket and where do you feel most effective?