To defend against the head shot from the low Quarte, the victim either a) parries, trying to stop the attacker with the Secunde (or tip half of the blade), which is weak, or b) brings the hilt up to parry with the Prime (or base half of the blade), which is strong, but the movement is slow. Neither of these are particularly satisfying maneuvers.
Pallas Armata recommends holding your left hand up near your left eye, in order to put by any sudden thrusts at your face. The motion is similar to shooing a gnat.
Another response is the passada or in modern terms, the three-point lunge. To perform this move, bend completely forward at the waist, placing your off-hand on the ground for support, and counter-thrust. You will end out of balance, with your chest parallel to the ground. A risky, all-or-nothing move, it should be used sparingly.
Changing en garde positions can be used to prevent the Mask Denter. For instance, a high Secunde (hold the blade straight out, palm down, shoulder high) will keep your opponent from even contemplating that head shot. This guard is less convenient for launching attacks, however.
In any case, consider carefully whether your preferred guard will leave your head open to a quick surprise attack, and compose a defensive response. Then, consider whether your opponent's guard has maybe left them open for the One Shot Wonder.
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