Important to modern technique as well as historical fencing is the concept of Time. Time is relative to the cadence of the fight; one time is one fencing action. Therefore a parry-riposte, for instance, takes two times, while a simple lunge takes one. We can gain time on our opponent by combining the defensive manuever with an attacking manuever; this is called counter-time.
This becomes extremely useful when using off-hand weapons or even the open off-hand. Simply deflect your opponent's attack with the defensive hand (maintain contact and he will not be able to hit you), while simultaneously stepping forward and thrusting with the sword. This is counter-intuitive to your natural reflexes and will require a bit of practice. Balance is critical so that you may move forward or backward without pre-shifting your weight. If you are not prepared to step into the attack (both mentally and physically), your counter-attack will come too late.
Counter-time can also be used without the off-hand. The easiest way is to thrust into an opponent's attack as it is developing. Use the rules of Pallas Armata by thrusting to the outside in Secunde (palm down) and to the inside with Quarte (palm up), and your blade will naturally deflect his attack as part of your thrust.
If your opponent attacks a mobile target, such as the leg, you may use a counter-time by drawing your feet together (removing the target) while simultaneously launching a thrust at his head. Similarly, if your opponent attacks your arm, you can withdraw the target by changing wards and attacking his arm.
You can keep your opponent off-balance by occasionally attacking into his attacks. If he becomes leery of attacking, then you will control the fight.
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