Mortal Combat

• always use shields (at least a buckler)

• Parry is almost always stronger than dodge (for mortals). If you are being attacked by a single opponet who is unskilled it is best to use parry. Of course, if there are multiple attacks expected full-dodge is never a bad choice.

• If you have the skill for it, multiple attacks are helpful to get past high soak (armored opponents) and encourage your enemies to abandon an attack for this round.

• wear heavy armor if you don't have much skill in dodge. But, of course, be careful not to make your accuracy go down below 3 dice. Also, the puny 1 die penelty for a buff jacket is well worth it.

• Teams are always good. Mortals should never fight alone if they have any choice about it.

• Fight in confined areas if alone. This will keep you from being outnumbered.

• Survival is more important than attack, don't be afraid to abandon your attack. Just try to make it through the current round.

• If opponent is weak, attack to force an abort. If your opponent is strong, try to delay him, you aren't above begging for your life, right?

• Don't fight in difficult conditions. The dice penelties on mortals are devestating. This includes deep mud and otherwise unstable ground.

• Use willpower to activate virtues, mortal combat is typically pretty quick anyways.

• Running away is okay.

• If it glows, run away.

• Depending on what type of charecter you have, poison might be a very good option. It isn't unusual for the poison on your knife to be more deadly than the blade.

• Always always always make sure that your wounds are treated after combat. You are mortal and infection is more deadly than a spear.