The Cochrane Gambit, an alternative against the Russian Defense

If you are looking for opening lines, check'n'mate problems, spectacular chess tricks to beat your everyday opponent or miraculous secrets that will make you a Master in six months or a year, well, you will not find them here. Oh, Yes: here you will find how to build your shield and your sword, and how to use them; how to learn from the wounds of defeat, and appreciate, even in the darkest moments, the beauty of Caissa, a goddess who has never been on the side of the weak...

English is not my first language, and this will show up sometimes. Friends have told me to issue my usual disclaimer when I speak to english speakers. Ok, this is it: If at any moment you don't understand or feel insulted in any way, please don't, I just got lost in translation. Just let me know what is not clear for you. Thanks.