MK Marshal's Handbook - Participants Section

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Contents 1 Participants Section 1.1 Authorization Cards and Waivers 1.2 Combat Authorization Requirements 1.3 Rules of the List 1.4 Conventions of Combat 1.5 The Use of Weapons and Shields 1.6 Acknowledgement of Blows 1.7 Armor Requirements 1.8 Weapons Standards 1.9 Siege Combat 1.10 Middle Kingdom Melee Conventions

Participants Section

See Marshal's handbook

Authorization Cards and Waivers

A. All authorized combatants must obtain an authorization card that must be presented to the List Table or inspecting Marshals at official events (but not official practices) before they can enter the Lists. Anyone who will enter the Lists as a participant (fighting in a tourney, sparring, helping with authorizations, Marshalling, etc.) must go to the List Table and present their Authorization/Participation Card, their SCA, Inc. membership card, and sign the appropriate participant's list and whatever other tourney Lists are requested. Persons other than combatants or Marshals who must enter the Lists (e.g. heralds, water bearers) must execute a waiver before participating at an official event.

B. While presenting paperwork at the Table is the best solution and strongly encouraged, participants frequently misplace their cards. In order to facilitate maximum participation, Marshals can verbally vouch for the authorization status of a participant, or the warrant of another Marshal who has misplaced their card. Any warranted officer of the SCA, Inc. may vouch for the membership status of a participant except for participation in Crown List, which requires formal proof of membership. Marshals and list officials are cautioned to report participants who appear to be taking advantage of this flexibility.

C. IF YOU DO NOT HAVE A CURRENT MEMBERSHIP AND AUTHORIZATION CARD, YOU CANNOT FIGHT - PER MIDDLE KINGDOM LAW.

D. The only exception is when you are authorizing or re-authorizing, which requires only a membership card.

E. Membership restriction per Article VII Authorization for Combat, Section 104 of Middle Kingdom Law:

VII-104: Only persons who are Members of the SCA, Inc. may be a Middle Kingdom Authorized fighter. Any person not in possession of a blue membership card must execute a waiver before participating in combat at an SCA function.

F. Out of Kingdom Authorizations

1. This law does not prohibit honoring out-of-kingdom authorizations, only that visitors who become permanent residents must become members if they wish to be authorized in the Middle Kingdom. Out-of-kingdom visitors may participate in Middle Kingdom martial activities upon showing proof of authorization, as applicable, and subject to the policies above. Again, Marshals and list officials are cautioned to report visitors who appear to be taking advantage of this flexibility.

2. Out of kingdom authorization cards will be honored until they expire in those situations where the participant has recently become a permanent resident of the Midrealm. The participant may then apply to the Regional Marshal for that activity for permission to directly transfer their authorizations to the closest Midrealm equivalents. The Regional Marshal will either approve the request on a case-by-case basis and forward to the Clerk of the Roster or direct the participant to re-authorize.

See Marshal's handbook

Combat Authorization Requirements

A. General

1. All persons who wish to participate in SCA combat activities must authorize under the Society and Middle Kingdom authorization procedures. SCA combat activities are defined as armored combat, Society period fencing, combat archery, siege, and marshaling. Other martial activities clearly falling within the scope above are also considered combat-related activities. Youth combat programs are not supervised at the Society level, but participation in such programs requires authorization following Middle Kingdom procedures.

The Middle Kingdom authorization process shall verify that the candidate is a member of the SCA with an activity waiver on file (most normally verified through the possession of a Blue Card), and is familiar with the following:

a. Rules of the Lists of the SCA.

b. The Armor and Weapons standards of the SCA.

c. The Conventions of Combat for the SCA.

d. Middle Kingdom Conventions of Combat.

e. Middle Kingdom specific Armor and Weapons Standards.

In addition to the above requirements, candidates must demonstrate the ability to function on the field in a manner that is safe both to themselves and to their opponents.

a. Only a warranted marshal may perform an authorization. This authorizing marshal must witness the authorization and execute the appropriate paperwork.

b. It is the responsibility of the combatant, NOT the marshal, to ensure that the authorization is registered with Clerk of the Roster.

c. Authorizations may only occur at official practices or events. Official practices or events are those that are published on official SCA websites and/or are advertised in The Pale.

Authorizations shall be registered with, and kept on file by, the Clerk of the Roster. This office shall be responsible for maintaining the registration of authorizations. This office shall provide the Earl Marshal with a list of all current combat authorization cards upon request.

2. To be an authorized armored combatant in the Middle Kingdom requires membership in the SCA with an activity waiver on file in the Corporate Offices (most normally shown by possession of a Blue Card).

3. Signed waivers for SCA combat-related activities shall be kept on file for a period of seven (7) years with the local marshal in charge. Non-SCA members must sign a waiver BEFORE entering the list to train in armored combat at practices. Non-members may NOT fight at events in the Middle Kingdom

4. Combat Authorization cards are issued with an expiration date. If an authorization card has expired, the fighter must re-authorize prior to participating in combat activities, including acting as a marshal.

5. Authorizations shall not be issued to persons residing in a kingdom other than the Middle Kingdom, unless a specific royal treaty defines the person seeking authorization as a subject of the Middle Kingdom.

6. The Middle Kingdom has the following armored combat authorizations:

a. Weapon and Shield: this is the primary authorization and covers a single handed weapon used in concert with a shield, as well as a single-handed weapon used without a shield

b. Two Weapons: the use of any two weapons simultaneously for offensive purposes

c. Pole Weapon: the use of two-handed weapons (polearms and spears) less than or equal to 7.5ft in length

d. Great Sword: swords between 4ft and 7.5ft in length

e. Spear: a thrusting-only weapon over 7.5ft in length

7. Acceptance into the Order of Chivalry shall convey automatic authorization in all TOURNAMENT weapon forms. Knights and Masters at Arms do NOT receive automatic authorization in: Combat Archery, Siege Weapons, Youth Combat, Rapier, or ANY Marshal Warrant.

8. All authorizations in the Middle Kingdom require proficiency in both body and face thrusting.

9. Valid combat authorization cards from foreign kingdoms shall be accepted as proof of authorization, as long as the combatant also presents proof of membership in the SCA with an activity waiver on file in the Corporate Offices (possession of a valid Blue Card is one example of how this may be done). Authorizations of fighters who have moved to the Middle Kingdom permanently will be honored until they expire. The participant may then apply to the Regional Marshal for that activity for permission to directly transfer their authorizations to the closest Midrealm equivalents. The Regional Marshal will either approve the request on a case-by-case basis and forward to the Clerk of the Roster or direct the participant to re-authorize.

10. A marshal from any kingdom may revoke the authorization card of a fighter from any other kingdom for just and stated cause. The marshal in charge (MIC) of the event should be notified immediately and the Earl Marshal of the fighter's kingdom of residence should receive a detailed report of the incident.

B. Minor Authorization

Minors (ages 16-17) may authorize with these additional requirements:

1. In order to be authorized as a combatant or marshal in adult armored combat, an individual must have attained his or her sixteenth (16th) birthday. In order to be authorized as a participant, combatant, or marshal in any other form of Society combatrelated activity, except youth combat, an individual must have attained his or her fourteenth (14th) birthday.

2. No person below the age of eighteen (18) may be warranted as a group Marshal, or the Marshal in Charge of an event.

3. The parents or guardians of the minor must witness SCA combat, discuss with a witnessing marshal how it relates to the participation of their child, and execute a Minor's Waiver and Informed Consent to Participate in SCA Combat-Related Activities. The witnessing Marshal must countersign the waiver.

4. Only the Earl Marshal, former Earl Marshals, the Principality Marshal, or a designated deputy may authorize the minor for SCA Combat-Related Activities. For instances where none of these officers are available, contact the Kingdom Earl Marshal to discuss options.

5. At any event in which the minor is involved in SCA combat-related activities, the minor must either have a parent or guardian present, or must be in possession of a properly executed Medical Authorization Form for Minors.

Said Medical Authorization Form must designate an adult present at the event as able to authorize medical treatment in the case of an emergency. Minors are required to show the “Medical Authorization Form for Minors at the list table, prior to engaging in martial activities, including marshaling.

6. Minors engaging in combat with adults shall be marked in the following manner: A single yellow diamond no larger than 1 inch (25.4 mm) but no smaller than 0.5 inch (12.7mm) to be placed on the front hemisphere of the helm (preferably on or near the inspection sticker).

See Marshal's handbook

Rules of the List

A. The Rules of the Lists

The basic rules for SCA combat are contained in the Rules of the Lists. The observance of honor and chivalry and the safety of the combatants are the overriding goals of these rules. The Rules of the Lists are reprinted here from section IX.B. of the Corpora of the SCA:

1. Each fighter, recognizing the possibilities of physical injury to themselves in such combat, shall assume unto themselves all risk and liability for harm suffered by means of such combat. No fighter shall engage in combat unless and until they have inspected the field of combat and satisfied themselves that it is suitable for combat. Other participants shall likewise recognize the risks involved in their presence on or near the field of combat and shall assume unto themselves the liabilities thereof.

2. No person shall participate in Official Combat-Related Activities (including armored combat, period fencing, and combat archery) outside of formal training sessions unless they have been properly authorized under Society and Kingdom procedures.

3. All combatants must be presented to, and be acceptable to, the Sovereign or his or her representative.

4. All combatants shall adhere to the appropriate armor and weapons standards of the Society, and to any additional standards of the Kingdom in which the event takes place. The Sovereign may waive the additional Kingdom standards.

5. The Sovereign or the Marshallate may bar any weapon or armor from use upon the field of combat. Should a warranted Marshal bar any weapon or armor, an appeal may be made to the Sovereign to allow the weapon or armor.

6. Combatants shall behave in a knightly and chivalrous manner and shall fight according to the appropriate Society and Kingdom Conventions of Combat.

7. No one may be required to participate in Combat-Related Activities. Any combatant may, without dishonor or penalty, reject any challenge without specifying a reason. A fight in a tournament list is not to be considered a challenge and therefore may be declined and forfeit the bout.

8. Fighting with real weapons, whether fast or slow, is strictly forbidden at any Society event. This rule does not consider approved weaponry which meets the Society and Kingdom standards for traditional Society combat and/or Society period rapier combat, used in the context of mutual sport, to be real weaponry.

9. No projectile weapons shall be allowed within the Lists of a tournament, nor shall any weapons be thrown. The use of approved projectile weapons for melee, war, or combat archery shall conform to the appropriate Society and Kingdom Conventions of Combat.

B. Applications of the Rules of the Lists

1. Application of Rule 1: Other participants include marshals and support personnel whose activities bring them close to fighting in a situation where boundaries are not clearly defined. Heralds, list pages, and similar officers who leave the field entirely before combat begins are exempt from this requirement, as are water-bearers and chirurgeons who remain in fixed support points outside the tournament field or battle area. Water-bearers and chirurgeons who take part in mobile support groups within the overall boundaries of a battle area must receive a basic orientation in field safety.

2. Application of Rule 2: The Crown and/or marshallate of each kingdom shall establish standards and procedures for the authorization of fighters to participate in combat. These procedures shall adhere to the combat authorization procedures in this handbook. At kingdom option, these procedures may involve either a general authorization to participate in armored combat or a set of separate authorization procedures for the use of (or for combat AGAINST) specific weapons or classes of weapons.

a. The Crown and/or marshallate of each kingdom shall establish standards and procedures for the authorization of combat archers and missile users to participate in combat. Kingdoms may establish such additional limitations on the participation of minors as may be deemed necessary. It is usual for authorizations from other kingdoms to be accepted, although exceptions may prove necessary in the case of specific individuals.

b. The Crown may not simply grant an authorization, unless the recipient has successfully completed the authorization process as delineated in Society and Kingdom law.

3. Application of Rule 3: The Crown or Their appointed representative may, upon review, find a fighter unacceptable to participate in the lists of Their Kingdom. If a fighter is found to be unacceptable, for whatever reason, they may not participate in armored combat.

4. Application of Rule 4: Kingdoms may apply armor and weapons standards that are stricter than the Society standards, should they be deemed necessary, but may not reduce or waive any Society standard.

5. Application of Rule 5: If a fighter regards an opponent's weapon or armor as unduly dangerous to self or opponent, he or she can request that the marshal on the field reinspect the item. Either fighter has the option of appealing the decision of the reinspection marshal to the marshal in charge and ultimately to the sovereign.

6. Application of Rule 6: Engaging in any Society combat activity with the deliberate intent to inflict bodily harm to an opponent is strictly forbidden.

7. Application of Rule 7: No one is required to engage in SCA combat should he or she prefer not to do so.

8. Application of Rule 8: Since fighting with real weapons is forbidden at any Society event, threatening the use of such weapons is likewise expressly forbidden.

a. At the discretion of the sovereign and the MIC, recognized experts may be permitted to present choreographed demonstrations with real weapons under strictly controlled conditions.

b. No one may wear any real weapon onto the field while participating in combat or present during combat.

c. Posing for still photographs with real weapons is permitted.

9. Application of Rule 9: The prohibition on thrown weapons refers to weapons thrown in combat or thrown in a hostile manner. It does not apply to “tossing,” defined as a gentle, short-range method of transferring or removing a tournament weapon or item from the list field or area of combat. The use of bows and arrows, firearms, slings, javelins, throwing axes, throwing knives, or any other projectile weapon is forbidden within tournament lists, or in any other situation where spectators cannot be separated from the potential line of fire by more than the effective range of the weapon.

See Marshal's handbook

Conventions of Combat

A. General Information

1. All traditional SCA armored combat at SCA tourneys, wars, and other events shall be conducted in accordance with the Rules of the Lists of the SCA, Inc., these Conventions of Combat, and such weapon and equipment standards and event rules as are established by the marshallate of the SCA, Inc., and the Middle Kingdom Earl Marshal.

2. The Middle Kingdom has established minimum armor and weapons standards more strict than those established by the Society minimum armor and weapons standards.

3. All fighters, prior to combat at each and every SCA-sponsored event or fighting practice, shall ensure that their armor and weapons are inspected by a warranted member of the Middle Kingdom marshallate.

4. Even though a warranted member of the Middle Kingdom marshallate has inspected the armor and weapons used by a fighter, each fighter shall accept full responsibility for the condition of his or her own equipment. Each fighter has the obligation to his- or herself, the marshals, and all opponents, to see that his or her equipment meets all Society and Kingdom requirements.

5. Combat archery ammunition each must be inspected individually before every use.

a. Siloflex-equivalent ammunition may be inspected by the archer and used again immediately, if allowed by the scenario.

b. Fiberglass-shafted ammunition must be taken off the field and reinspected under the supervision of a combat archery marshal before being used again.

6. When not otherwise directed by the sovereign, the sovereign's representative upon the field and in all matters dealing with Society combat is the Earl Marshal, and, by delegation, warranted members of the kingdom marshallate.

B. Behavior on the Field

1. Striking an opponent with excessive force is forbidden.

2. All fighters shall obey the commands of the marshals on the field or shall be removed from the field and subject to disciplinary action. Disagreements with the marshals on the field shall be resolved through the established mechanisms outlined in the Procedures for Grievances and Sanctions of the Marshallate Procedures of the SCA, Inc.

3. Each fighter shall maintain control over his or her temper at all times.

4. Upon hearing the call of HOLD all fighting shall IMMEDIATELY stop.

5. A fighter shall not enter the lists or participate in any form of SCA combat activity while impaired by alcohol or drugs (including, but not limited to: drugs prescribed by a licensed health care provider, over- the-counter medications, and illegal controlled substances.)

6. Any behavior that takes deliberate advantage of an opponent's chivalry or safety consciousness, or that takes deliberate unfair advantage of an opponent, is prohibited.

7. A fighter shall not deliberately strike a helpless opponent.

a. A fighter lying on the ground may not strike an opponent nor may she be struck.

b. An opponent who is empty-handed but still bearing a shield is not considered helpless.

c. A combatant in the act of acknowledging the effects of an earlier blow is not considered helpless.

8. Any fighter who obtains an unfair advantage by repeatedly becoming "helpless" (for example, by falling down or losing their weapon) may, after being duly warned by the marshals on the field, be forced to yield the fight at the next occurrence of such behavior. The onus of this is on the marshals, not on the opponent. However, the opponent may ask the marshals to let the fight continue.

9. A combatant who makes himself "helpless" by repeatedly overrunning the borders of the list, falling over or repeatedly dropping their weapon may, at the discretion of the marshals and the opponent, be deemed to have been defeated. This shall not apply to combatants who were in physical contact with their opponents at the time they overran the Lists or fell.

10. Grappling, tripping, throwing, punching, kicking, and wrestling are prohibited. Contact between combatants' bodies, shields, and weapons is expected in corps-a-corps or melee situations, as such controlled contact is allowed during these engagements.

a. Grappling is difficult to define in our martial art. If you find that, rather than fighting against someone, you are struggling against them with body-to-body, weapon/shieldto-body contact occurring, or if you are both trying to fight for control over one weapon (such as a polearm), that's grappling.

b. Using a shield to restrict movement is a grey area, and can easily be construed as grappling. The definition relies on how you got to that point - whether it is intentional shield-on-body contact, or a result of the natural movements of the fight.

Simply put, you cannot strike with a shield to restrict movement. Moving your shield into position so that it is touching your opponent is ok - until it gets to the point that the "pinned" opponent is struggling against the shield.

c. Aggressively moving your shield against a body part to move the body part out of the way is also grappling and is illegal. Similarly, using a polearm to “check” a person is illegal if the haft is striking a body part.

11. Deliberately striking an opponent's head, limbs, or body with a shield, weapon haft, or any part of the body is forbidden.

12. Grasping an opponent’s person, shield, weapon's striking surface, or bow/crossbow is prohibited.

13. Intentionally striking an opponent outside the legal target areas is forbidden.

a. No combatant may deliberately cause an opponent to strike an illegal target area. Any combatant who does so (for example, lifting a leg) will be required to accept the blow as good.

b. Turning the head or deliberately putting the top of the head forward to avoid a face thrust or missile contact – otherwise known as “target substitution” by Middle Kingdom standards - is not considered the same as ducking or dodging a blow. This technique is prohibited.

C. Target Areas

1. Torso: All of the body above the points of the hips, excluding the head and arms and including the groin, shoulder blades, and the area between the neck and shoulders. :2. Face: the area between the chin and the middle of the forehead and between the ear openings.

3. Head: The whole head and neck except the face as defined above.

4. Thighs: The leg from one inch [25.4mm} above the top of the knee to a line even with the bottom of the hip socket.

5. Hips: Area between the bottom of the hip socket to the point of the hip (iliac crest).

6. Shoulder: From the point of the shoulder down to a line even with the top of the underarm.

7. Arms: From the shoulder to one inch [25.4mm} above the wrist.

8. Blows that land outside the legal target areas shall not be counted, unless an illegal target area has been intentionally placed in the path of an impending blow.

D. Combat Archery Conventions

1. Upon a hold being called, all archers must unload their weapons (crossbows may remain cocked).

2. Archers may have a backup weapon on them, but may not draw it until their bow has been safely disposed of (taken off the field, discarded in a low traffic area, handed to another combatant, etc). Upon drawing a backup weapon to enter combat, hands must be appropriately armored.

3. Archers may carry and use thrown weapons without need to discard their bow or change hand armor.

4. Archers need to be aware of what is beyond their target area to ensure that errant shots do not endanger anyone.

5. An archer's minimum range is dictated by ensuring that the ammunition completely clears the bow before contacting the opponent.

6. Ammunition dropped onto the ground is considered dead as if it had been fired, and needs re-inspection.

7. Live combatants may pick ammunition off the field for re-inspection (as long as reinspection is allowed during the scenario) and reuse it during the same battle. Dead combatants may clear ammunition from the field for use in future battles if scenario rules allow.

8. Within scenario limits, ammunition may be taken from caches stored on or off the field and from other combatants (dead or alive) with permission of the owner.

See Marshal's handbook

The Use of Weapons and Shields

A. Weapons shall be used in accordance with their design. For example, spears may only be used for thrusting, axes for striking along the edge of the blade, etc.

1. Only weapons approved for thrusting may be used for that purpose. Feinting as if to thrust with a weapon not approved for that purpose is prohibited. Before any bout where a thrusting weapon is used, the opponent and marshals shall be informed that such a weapon is on the field, and the thrusting tip shall be shown to the opponent.

2. The blade of an opponent's weapon may not be grasped at any time, nor may it be trapped in contact with the fighter's body as a means of preventing the opponent's use of the weapon. Armored hands may grasp the haft of an opponent's weapon. Note: Your opponent's weapon may NOT be pinned against your body, however pinning your opponent's sword against his own body constitutes fouling, and so long as you are using your equipment to do so (shield or weapon) it is legal.

B. The striking surface of a weapon in motion may not be grasped or blocked by the hands or limbs as a means of impeding a blow.

1. If a combatant intentionally places an illegal target area (e.g., an empty hand and or lower leg, including the knee and foot) in the path of a blow, the combatant forfeits that attached limb as if it had been struck in a legal target area.

2. Inadvertently bringing the hands in contact with the striking surface of a weapon in motion, as when attempting to block a blow with another weapon, shall not be considered to be in violation of this convention.

C. Blows repeatedly blocked by a weapon in contact with a fighter's helm, body, or shield at the moment of impact may, at the sovereign's or marshal's discretion, be considered to have broken the blocking weapon. This will force a fighter to forfeit the fight, unless a secondary weapon is carried or the opponent chooses to allow the fighter to rearm with another weapon.

D. A shield or weapon may be used to displace, deflect, or immobilize an opponent's shield or weapon, so long as such use does not endanger the safety of the combatants. A shield or haft may be safely placed against the opponent's body to restrict her ability to strike or defend.

E. Shields must be controlled by the hand; use of passive shields (not controlled by the hand) will be treated as decorative armor and subject to effective blow acknowledgment.

F. A combat archer may carry and use a shield or pavise; however, as long as they are carrying it, they cannot span nor fire their weapon. See Marshal's handbook

Acknowledgement of Blows

A. Judging the effects of blows is left to the honor of the combatant being struck by the weapon, unless he or she relinquishes this responsibility, with the exception of clear violations of the Rules of the Lists or the Conventions of Combat. Effectiveness of a blow may not be judged by the opposing combatant, the marshal on the field, or other observers. Information unavailable to the combatant being struck may be supplied by the opposing combatant or the marshal, including blade orientation upon impact, apparent force transmitted, or apparent location and angle of the blow’s impact based upon the observer’s angle of observation.

B. When judging the effect of blows, all fighters are presumed to be fully armored. Special tournaments or combat rules may redefine what areas of the body are armored, and to what extent, so long as all the participants are made aware of the special conditions prior to the start of combat.

1. All “fully armored” fighters are presumed to be wearing a chain hauberk over a padded gambeson, with boiled leather arm and leg defenses and an open-faced iron helm with a nasal. The helm may be presumed by kingdom convention to include a very light chain mail drape, permitting vision and resisting cuts by the mere touch of a bladed weapon.

2. Under this standard, an acceptable cutting blow to the face would be lighter than to other portions of the head or body. Areas deemed illegal to strike (the wrists from 1 inch [25.4mm] above the hands; the legs from 1 inch [25.4mm] above the knees and below) shall be considered safe from all attack. The minimum effective thrusting blow to the face shall be a directed touch and the maximum shall be substantially lighter than to other parts of the body.

3. In the Middle Kingdom, all areas of the head except the face and neck are proof against thrust. Any combat that deviates from this standard must have prior Earl Marshal approval.

C. An effective blow will be defined as a blow which was delivered with effective technique for the particular type of weapon used, properly oriented, and struck with sufficient force. Combatants must acknowledge blows according to the calibration standards of the Middle Kingdom despite the actual armor worn. This includes armor that is ill fitting, or tabards and auxiliary weapons that may entangle legitimate blows. Marshals may require combatants to remove the offending weapons or clothes.

1. An effective blow to the head, neck, or torso shall be judged fatal or completely disabling, rendering the fighter incapable of further combat.

2. An effective blow from an axe, mace, polearm, greatsword, or other mass weapon, which lands on the hip above the hip socket or strikes the shoulder inside the shoulder socket, shall be judged fatal or completely disabling.

3. An effective blow to the arm above the wrist will disable the arm. The arm shall then be considered useless to the fighter and may not be used for either offense or defense.

4. An effective blow to the leg above the knee will disable the leg. The fighter must then fight kneeling, sitting, or standing on the foot of the uninjured leg. Kingdoms may place limitations upon the mobility of such injured fighters.

5. If a wounded limb blocks an otherwise acceptable blow, the blow shall be counted as though the limb were not there.

D. Changes to blow acknowledgment standards may be made on a per-combat, per-scenario, or per-tournament basis, but thereafter will revert to the standards above. Alternate acknowledgment standards do not alter the allowed target areas, nor do they increase the basic force level for a telling blow. All combatants must be informed of any changes to standard blow acknowledgment before they participate in the combat.

E. When judging the outcome of a delivered blow, all fighters are expected to take into account the nature of the weapon being used by their opponent and the location of the point of impact of that weapon. A blow that strikes with sufficient force and proper orientation shall be considered effective, regardless of what it hits prior to striking the combatant.

F. Sometimes a blow that would normally be accepted occurs at almost the same moment as an event that would cause the fight to be stopped (a “HOLD” being called, the killing of the fighter throwing the blow, etc.). If the blow was begun before the occurrence of the event that would cause the bout to be halted, and if of sufficient force, it shall be deemed a legal blow and acceptable. If the blow was begun after the occurrence of the event that would cause the bout to be halted, it shall be deemed not legal and need not be accepted.

G. A blow that includes the dropping of a weapon at the moment of impact need not be counted.

Note: If the force of the blow causes the weapon to be dropped, the rule shall be suspended.

H. Owing to safety limits placed on combat archery equipment, and the low mass of the ammunition, arrows and bolts strike with less force. They need not strike with the same force as hand-held weapons for the strikes to be considered killing blows. See Marshal's handbook

Armor Requirements

A. Armored Participants

1. All participants on the field during adult armored combat shall meet the Society minimum armor standards for a fully armored combatant. This includes, but is not limited to, combat archers, siege engineers and other combatants.

2. It does not include marshals, water-bearers, or chirurgeons. All authorized combatants and warranted marshals shall disguise, cover, or remove modern corporate logos and sport gear unless the gear is necessary for medical reasons. Special attention should be paid to appearance and the atmosphere of a medieval event should be maintained.

B. Helms

1. Helms shall be constructed from steel which has a thickness of no less than .0625 (that is, 1/16) inch (1.6 mm), or of equivalent material. Alternative materials, such as stainless steel, brass, bronze, or like materials, are permissible as long as the material is structurally equivalent to 0.0625-inch-thick steel. The mass of the helm is an important part of the protection. As such, no titanium, fiberglass, aluminum, or other ultra-light materials may be used unless they meet the equivalent mass, strength, and weight of steel which has a thickness of no less than .0625 (that is, 1/16) inch (1.6 mm). Proof of construction technique, materials, and equivalency must be provided to the kingdom earl marshal (KEM) for an approval for in-kingdom use. If a spun-metal top is to be used in the construction of the helm, it shall be a minimum of 0.75 inch (14-gauge or 1.905 mm) steel. The process of spinning the top thins the metal, thereby requiring a heavier gauge.

2. All joints or seams shall be constructed in one or a combination of the following ways, with all welds sound and rivets secure:

a. Welded on the inside and outside.

b. Welded with a single bead that extends through both surfaces.

c. Lap joints welded or brazed at the edges of both pieces.

3. Helms will be riveted with iron or steel rivets no more than 2.5 inches (63.5 mm) apart, or with equivalent riveting techniques. Screw- and pop-type rivets, along with other lightweight rivets, are not to be used.

4. Face guards shall prevent a 1 inch (25.4mm) diameter dowel from entering into any of the face guard openings.

5. The face guard shall extend at least 1 inch (25.4mm) below the bottom of the chin and jaw line when the head is held erect.

6. Bars used in the face guard shall be steel of not less than .1875 (that is, 3/16) inch (4.8 mm) in diameter, or equivalent. If the span between crossbars is less than 2 inches (50.8 mm), .125 (that is, 1/8) inch (3.18 mm) diameter bars may be used.

7. All movable visors shall be attached and secured in such a way that there is minimal chance that they will become detached or come open in normal combat use.

8. There shall be NO major internal projections; minor projections of necessary structural components shall be padded. All metal shall be free of sharp edges. Face guard bars or mesh should not attach to the interior of the helm, unless of structurally superior design and workmanship.

9. All parts of the helm that might cause injurious contact with the wearer’s head shall be padded with a minimum of .5 inch (12.7 mm) of closed-cell foam or equivalent padding, or shall be suspended in such a way as to prevent contact with the wearer during combat. Similarly, parts of the inside of the helm that might come in contact with the wearer’s neck or body should be padded.

10. All helms shall be equipped with a chin strap or equivalent means to prevent the helm from being dislodged or metal contacting the wearer’s face during combat. An equivalent might be, for example, a bevor or a chin-cup suspension system. A “snug fit” is NOT an equivalent. The chin strap shall be, at a minimum, .5 inch (12.7 mm) in width and shall not be placed in the helm in a manner that could strangle the wearer.

C. Eye Wear

1. The lenses of all eyewear shall be constructed of shatterproof industrial safety glass or plastic. Ordinary glass lenses are prohibited.

2. The wearing of contact lenses or “sports glasses” is strongly recommended.

D. Neck Armor

The neck, including the larynx, cervical vertebrae, and first thoracic vertebra must be covered by one or a combination of the following and must stay covered during typical combat situations, including turning the head, lifting the chin, etc.:

1. The helm

2. A gorget of rigid material

3. A mail or heavy leather camail or aventail that hangs or drapes to absorb the force of a blow. If the camail or aventail lays in contact with the larynx, cervical vertebrae, or first thoracic vertebra, that section must be padded with a minimum of .25 inch (6mm) of closed cell foam or equivalent

4. A collar of heavy leather lined with a minimum of .25 inch (6mm) of close cell foam or equivalent

E. Body, Shoulder, and Groin Armor

1. The kidney area and the floating ribs shall be covered with a minimum of heavy leather worn over .25 inch (6 mm) of closed-cell foam or equivalent padding.

2. For men, the groin must be covered by a minimum of a rigid athletic cup (e.g., an ice hockey, soccer, karate, or baseball cup) worn in a supporter or fighting garment designed to hold the cup in place, or equivalent armor.

3. For women, groin protection of closed-cell foam or heavy leather or the equivalent is required to cover the pubic bone area. The wearing of a male athletic cup by female fighters is prohibited.

4. Separate breast cups are prohibited unless connected by or mounted on an interconnecting rigid piece, for example, a heavy leather or metal breastplate.

F. Hand and Wrist Armor:

The outer surfaces of the hand, to one inch above the wrist of both arms and including the thumb, must be covered by one or a combination of the following:

1. A rigid basket or cup hilt with enough bars or plates to prevent a blow from striking the fingers or the back of the hand. If a basket or cup hilt, shield basket, or center-grip shield is used, a vambrace and or partial gauntlet shall cover the remaining exposed portions of the hand and wrist. Wrist armor must fully cover the back of the joint and the two points; it is strongly encouraged that the palm-side of the wrist is also covered, but is not required.

2. A gauntlet of rigid material either lined with .25 inch (6 mm) of closed-cell foam or equivalent or designed to transfer potentially injurious impact to the surfaces being grasped.

3. A gauntlet of heavy leather lined with .5 inch (12 mm) of closed-cell foam or heavy padding. (Note: An ice hockey glove is considered to be the equivalent, but looks blatantly modern; their use is discouraged.) Street hockey gloves are NOT equivalent, as the padding is lighter than a regular ice hockey glove. Street hockey gloves will be treated only as padding.

4. A shield with a shield basket or equivalent. A shield alone is NOT sufficient, since it covers the back of the hand, but not the fingers, thumb, or wrist. The Middle Kingdom requires the use of full hand protection behind a shield, regardless of the distance from the edge of the shield.

5. Combat archers, siege engineers, and those using a thrown weapon, need only a halfgauntlet made to the above standards for gauntlets but without finger protection.

G. Arm Armor

1. The elbow point and bones at either side of the elbow joint must be covered by a rigid material underlain by at least .25 inch (6 mm) of closed-cell foam or equivalent padding.

2. This armor shall be attached in such a way that the elbow remains covered during combat.

3. The Middle Kingdom requires the use of an elbow cop behind a shield, regardless of the strap configuration and the distance of the elbow away from the edge of the shield during normal use.

H. Leg Armor

1. The kneecap, including the area one inch (25.4 mm) above and below it, and both sides of the knee joints, must be covered by rigid material, lined by at least .25 inch (6 mm) of closed-cell foam or an equivalent padding. This armor shall be attached in such a way that the knee remains covered during combat.

2. Combatants should wear footwear that provides adequate protection and support for the terrain and activity of combat.

3. Spurs that project more than 0.5 inch are prohibited on the field

I. Shields

1. Shields shall be edged with leather, padding, or other covering or constructed in such a way as to minimize damage to rattan weapons or other fighters.

2. No bolts, wires, or other objects may project more than .375 (that is, 3/8) inch (9 mm) from any part of a shield without being padded. Rounded shield bosses are not considered to be projections.

3. Shields may be constructed with leg(s) so that they can act as freestanding pavises during melee combat.

a. The leg(s) used to keep the pavise standing must be at least 1.25 inches (31.8 mm) in diameter or 1.25 inches (31.8 mm) square and be well-attached.

b. Pavises are destroyed by a single hit from siege engine ammunition. Combatants behind the pavise are not killed. The pavise must then immediately be removed from the field or dropped flat.

c. A pavise can be carried in a manner which does not require hand control (such as by a shoulder strap). In this case, the fighter is not allowed to actively block with it, nor can they use their own weapon, and if struck by a hand weapon, the blow

is counted as if the pavise was not there. See Marshal's handbook

Weapons Standards

A. General

1. With the exception of the hilts, guards and pommels, no metal or non-approved rigid, granular, or liquid material may be used in the construction of single or two-handed weapons including spears.

a. The striking surface of a weapon is to be considered throughout the entire striking portion, blade, or head, of the weapon, not only the outside "skin" or layer. This includes all interior construction materials and parts no matter how

"deep" inside.

b. Duct tape that contains metal may not be used to construct weapons.

2. Primary weapons used single-handed shall have a wrist strap (or equivalent restraint) which will keep the weapon from leaving the immediate area of the user if released during any part of a bout or combat. Restraints are not required on hafted weapons used single-handed, or on single-handed back-up weapons.

3. Flails are expressly prohibited.

4. Mechanical devices known as “sliders,” which are used to guide or propel spears, are prohibited.

5. All weapons shall have all cutting edges and thrusting tips marked in a contrasting color.

6. The striking surfaces of all weapons, including the tip, shall be wrapped in a manner that allows no rattan splinters to protrude.

7. All thrusting tips and striking heads must be securely attached to the weapon.

8. The edges and tips of all striking surfaces shall be rounded.

9. No part of a weapon shall have sharp edges or protrusions with cross-section of less than 1.25 inch (31.8mm) in diameter. Guards, pommels, hooks, etc., shall be firmly and securely affixed to the weapon haft.

10. It shall not be possible to force into a legal face guard, any part of a weapon which may reasonably be expected to contact an opponent during combat more than .5 inch (12.7 mm). Rattan weapons may have a handle section which is less than 1.25 inch (31.8 mm), so long as it meets this criterion. Combat archery shafts may be thinner as long as the head and tail meet the criteria.

11. Rattan shall not be treated in any way that will substantially reduce its flexibility (e.g., treated with wax, resin, fiberglass, etc.).

12. No missile weapons intended to simulate firearms, slings, slingstaffs, nor can atlatls be used on the field of armored combat.

13. No “punch weapons” or thrusting weapons that have the blade or tip more perpendicular than parallel to the grip.

14. No shovel handles on any thrusting weapon.

15. Weapons under 48” (1.22 m) or greater than 7’ 6” (2.29 m) in length may have either a thrusting tip or a butt spike, but not both at the same time.

B. Single-Handed Weapons

Weapons that shall be used in one hand shall have the following requirements:

1. Single-handed weapons shall be not less than 1.25 inch (31.8 mm) in total diameter (including tape) along its entire length excepting the handle, and shall be constructed of one of the following:

a. Rattan

b. rattan-cored Siloflex or

c. Siloflex-equivalent

2. Rattan-cored Siloflex or Siloflex equivalent weapons shall be constructed using tubular materials meeting ASTM standard D-2239 or the international equivalent, with a pressure rating of 160 PSI or greater, having at least a 1.25 inch (31.8 mm) diameter on the outside and at least .125 (that is, 1/8) inch (3.2 mm) walls, and having an inner core of rattan that fills the interior of the tubular material entirely. Periodic inspection shall be made to determine the condition of the inner core.

3. If the weapon has a head, it shall not be constructed of solely rigid materials. The head shall be firmly and securely attached to the haft. The head shall allow at least .5 inch (12.7 mm) of progressive give between the striking surface and the weapon haft.

4. No weapon may have a cutting and/or smashing surface at both ends.

5. When thrusting tips are used, they shall be at least the same diameter as the shaft of the weapon they are mounted on and have at least .75 inch (19.1 mm) of resilient material in front of the rigid tip of the weapon providing at least .375 (that is, 3/8) inch (9.53 mm) of progressively resistant give across the face of the thrusting tip. (Note: Pressing with the thumb into the center of the thrusting tip is not an adequate test. The give must be across the entire face of the tip.)

6. Swords shall have a hand guard, such as a basket hilt, quillions, or equivalent.

7. Maces may be constructed of a single piece of rattan, or with a separate, attached head.

a. When constructed of a single piece of rattan, the head must be carved to create an area that is clearly distinct from the haft. Tape alone is insufficient for this delineation. Maces constructed in the manner will not exceed 48” and MUST be

used with a single hand only.

b. Maces constructed using a separate, attached head, will adhere to the rules outlined above in section VIII.B.3

c. Bar maces and similar style of weapons are strictly forbidden.

8. Total weapon mass shall not exceed 5 pounds (2.27 kg).

C. Two-Handed Weapons

Weapons which may be used with one or two hands shall have the following requirements:

1. Weapons shall be constructed of rattan of not less than 1.25 inch (31.8 mm) in diameter (including tape). Polearms may contain blades constructed of split rattan, so long as the piece(s) are securely fastened to the haft.

2. The weapon shall not be excessively flexible.

3. If the weapon has a head, it shall not be constructed of solely rigid materials. The head shall be firmly and securely attached to the haft. The head shall allow at least .5 inch (12.7 mm) of progressive give between the striking surface and the weapon haft. Semirigid ultra-lightweight shaped foam heads and laminated or split rattan construction techniques do not require .5 inch (12.7 mm) of progressive give, so long as their construction imparts striking characteristics similar to an unpadded weapon constructed of a single piece of rattan.

a. Polearms over 6 feet must be unpadded.

b. Foam weapon heads and unpadded Rathbone axe heads are legal on weapons 6 feet and under

c. Weapons over 48 inch in length may NOT have a 360° striking surface

d. Weapons may not combine padded and unpadded striking surfaces.

e. No weapon may have a cutting and/or smashing surface at both ends.

4. Thrusting tips:

a. When thrusting tips are used on rattan weapons with greater length than 7.5 feet (2.286 m), they shall be no less than 2 inches (50.8 mm) in diameter/cross-section and have 2 inches (50.8 mm) of resilient material in front of the rigid tip of the

weapon, thereby providing progressively resistant give.

b. When thrusting tips are used on rattan weapons with length less than or equal to 7.5 feet, they shall be at least the same diameter as the shaft of the weapon they are mounted on and have 1.5 inches (38.1 mm) of resilient material in front of the rigid tip of the weapon, thereby providing progressively resistant give.

Note: Pressing with the thumb into the center of the thrusting tip is not an adequate test. The give must be across the entire face of the tip.

5. Weapons exceeding 7.5 feet (2.286 m) shall not be used for cutting or smashing and shall be used for thrusting only.

6. Total weapon length shall not exceed 12 feet (3.658 m).

7. Total weapon mass shall not exceed 6 pounds (2.73 kg).

D. Fiberglass Spears

1. Fiberglass spears shall not have a cutting or smashing head.

2. Fiberglass spears shall be constructed with pultruded fiberglass shafts with an outside diameter of no less than 1.25 inch (31.8 mm) and no greater than 1 5/16 inch (33.38 mm). Minimum manufacturer specified wall thickness shall be .125 (that is, 1/8) inch (3.2 mm) and the minimum measurable wall thickness shall be 3/32 inch (2.38 mm).

3. The end of the shaft which will have the thrusting tip attached must be covered with a schedule-40 PVC cap with an interior diameter the same as the outside diameter of the shaft (1.25 inches or 31.8 mm). The thrusting tip will then be attached over this cap.

4. All fiberglass spears must have a thrusting tip that is a minimum of 2 inches (50.8 mm) in diameter/ cross-section and have 2 inches (50.8 mm) of resilient material in front of the PVC end cap, thereby providing progressively resistant give without allowing contact with the PVC end cap.

Note: The use of Mandrake-style rubber thrusting tips is prohibited on fiberglass spears in the Middle Kingdom.

5. Shafts may be spliced using a fiberglass rod or tube with a sidewall of .125 inch (3.2 mm) of the same or equivalent material, having an outside diameter of 1 inch (25.4 mm) and a length of 8–12 inches (203–304 mm). Only two splices will be allowed per spear shaft. Each end to be spliced shall be cut square and clean of cracks or frayed fibers. The rod shall extend at least 4 inches (101.6 mm) into each spliced end. One or both of these two methods shall secure the splice:

a. Epoxying both ends of the fiberglass rod before insertion.

b. Epoxying one end of the fiberglass rod before insertion and thoroughly taping the splice over with fiber tape.

6. The butt end of the shaft shall be smooth and free of cracks or frayed fibers. The butt shall be taped over or otherwise sealed. If a weapon is completely taped, a marshal may require that one section be untaped enough to determine that pultruded fiberglass has been used in the construction of the shaft.

7. Total spear length shall be greater than 7.5 feet and less than 12 feet (3.658 m).

E. Throwing Weapons

These weapons may be used for striking and may also be thrown in melee scenarios where thrown weapons are allowed. Examples are thrust-and-throw javelins, axes, knives, etc.

1. Shafts shall be constructed of rattan not less than 1.25 inch (31.8 mm) in diameter along its entire length or of two layers of Siloflex or equivalent. The outer layer shall be 1 inch (25.4 mm) inner diameter Siloflex (1.25 inch [31.8mm] outer diameter) and the inner layer shall be 0.75 inch (19.1 mm) inner diameter Siloflex. All Siloflex used for throwing weapons must have a pressure rating of 160 PSI or greater. If Siloflex is used, both ends of the shaft shall be covered with either a schedule-40 PVC cap with an interior diameter the same as the outside diameter of the shaft (1.25 inches [31.8 mm]), or with a rubber stopper or equivalent means to prevent the tubing from penetrating the thrusting tip(s), fastened securely in place by tape and/or glue.

2. Thrusting tips on plastic tubing based hand thrown objects (examples are thrust-and-throw javelins, axes, knives, etc.) should be made in the same manner as a tubular Combat Archery rubber stopper arrow or bolt, if the PVC cap method is not used

3. Thrusting tips shall be used on any tip that can be reasonably assumed to contact a fighter when the weapon is used or thrown. Tips shall be no less than 2 inches (50.8 mm) in diameter/cross-section and have 2 inches (50.8 mm) of resilient material in front of the rigid tip of the weapon, thereby providing progressively resistant give.

4. If the weapon has a head, it shall not be constructed of solely rigid materials. The head shall be firmly and securely attached to the haft or handle. The head shall allow at least .5 inch (12.7 mm) of progressive give between the striking surface and the weapon haft or handle.

5. The weapon must have the owner’s name, kingdom, and branch clearly and legibly printed on it in English characters for identification.

6. Total mass of the weapon shall not exceed 2 pounds (0.91 kg).

F. Combat Archery Bows/Crossbows

For complete information regarding the construction and inspection of Combat Archery Weapons and Combat Archery Ammunition in the Middle Kingdom see The Middle Kingdom Combat Archery Handbook and the 35 Foot Spear Website

See Marshal's handbook

Siege Combat

For complete information regarding Siege Combat in the Middle Kingdom, including the construction of siege weapons, siege weapon ammunition, and the proper marshalling procedures for Siege Warfare in the Middle Kingdom, see The Middle Kingdom Siege Engines Handbook.

A. General

Siege engines or structures may be used in combat during melees and wars in accordance with the rules set forth in the Siege Engines Handbook.

B. Munitions

1. Siege-class munitions are denoted by being primarily yellow and include ballista bolts and rocks (1-pound [0.45 kg] foam or 4-tennis-ball clusters).

2. Small-arms munitions include single tennis balls and tube shafted combat archery arrows and bolts.

C. Blow Acknowledgment

1. A blow from siege class ammunition to any legal target area shall be judged fatal or completely disabling.

2. Blows from siege class ammunition to shields shall be judged fatal or completely disabling to the bearer of the shield unless otherwise specified by scenario rules.

3. Hand-held weapons struck by siege class munitions shall be considered destroyed.

4. Small-arms munitions fired from siege engines shall be treated as combat archery projectiles.

5. Siege munitions are considered spent upon striking a target, the ground, or a battlefield structure.

D. Destroying Siege Engines.

1. Fighters shall stay clear of moving parts and, when possible, approach siege engines/structures from the side.

2. Striking or thrusting siege engines/structures with hand-held weapons is strictly prohibited.

3. Siege engines may be destroyed by placing a hand-held weapon on the engine/structure and declaring “this weapon is destroyed,” or by being struck by siege-class munitions from another siege engine.

4. Siege engine crews are fully armored combatants and should be treated as would be any other fighter on the field.

5. Siege engineers may not fire their engine while holding any weapon, nor have a weapon dangling from the wrist. Siege Engineers and crew members working on an active siege engine may carry (in their hand) and use only thrown objects (with the exception of thrust and throw javelins) to defend themselves. The crew member may only engage an opponent when they are at least 10 feet away from the engine they are assigned to.

6. If fighting occurs within 5 feet (1.524 m) of an engine that is cocked or loaded, a hold shall be called and the engine shall be declared destroyed and removed from the combat area and made safe.

7. If their engine is destroyed in combat and the Siege Engineer and Siege crew is not dead, they may move to assist another engine that is still active, once their destroyed engine has been safely removed from the field. If there is an engine available for use and/or a Siege engineer who needs a crew, a siege crew member may man and operate the engine with permission of the Siege engineer unless scenario rules prohibit it.

8. Siege Crews and Siege Engineers whose engine has been destroyed and are still alive may operate a reserve engine if they own one, or operate a replacement engine of the same type with permission of the engines owner /engineer if the scenario rules do not prohibit it.

9. Once a destroyed engine is safely removed from the field, any Siege Engineer or Siege crew member of a destroyed engine may return to the field with thrown objects: thrustand-throw javelins, axes, knives, etc., or any weapon they are authorized in unless prohibited by the scenario rules. They must wear the proper armored hand coverage required for the type of weapon they use. Half gauntlets are acceptable for the use of thrown weapons.

See Marshal's handbook

Middle Kingdom Melee Conventions

A. Rules of Engagement

1. Engagement is the process of making your presence and intention as a martial threat known to your opponent.

a. Engagement is gained through specific action to notify an opponent of your presence (a light tap with the weapon, shield contact, verbal warning, etc.)

b. AND you’ve received acknowledgment that the opponent recognizes you as a martial threat before making a serious attack.

c. Combatants may not deliberately ignore attempts to engage them.

2. An opponent in a melee who is unaware of an attacking combatant’s presence is not to be struck, as the attacking combatant does not have engagement.

3. You are engaged during a melee when you are part of a group or line that attacks the front of another group or line that is not currently fighting anyone until the situation changes significantly to mix the lines.

4. If you or a group that you are with comes up to a fight already in progress, you may NOT just join the people on your side and start swinging at the other side. You MUST GET engagement before striking a killing force blow.

5. If, after hitting a person, they say they did not know you were there and they did not think they were engaged with you, it is the polite and proper thing to treat this situation just like you would if someone called your blow light or glance.

6. An opponent, by not taking a blow because of lack of engagement, has now acknowledged you as a martial threat, and so you are now engaged

B. Striking in the back

1. “Wrap” shots – shots thrown from the front hemisphere of an engaged opponent striking them in the back – are always legal.

2. You may strike a person in the back when they, while fighting you and thus engaged with you, turns and flees. You have until they get out of weapons range to strike them.

3. You may pursue your opponent and as long as they never get out of your weapon range, you may strike them. Once they do get outside your weapon range, you must re-engage them if you catch back up to them.

4. You may strike a person in the back when they pass through your group or line at the initial point of engagement. You may use a back hand or wrap as they pass. You may also turn and strike them. You only get one shot and you may NOT pursue them.

C. Four on One (4 on 1)

There may be no more than 4 attackers on 1 combatant, except when lines are engaged.

D. Fouling

Combatants may foul the weapons, or make shield to shield, or shield to weapon contact (as in when rolling a flank) with opponents they may not strike, prior to engagement. In doing so they must show restraint in the interests of safety. Fouling does not include grappling as defined in Middle Kingdom Armored Combat Conventions subsection (see above).

E. Charges

A combatant, or group of combatants, that deliberately charges into a group of opponents may be struck from any angle by those opponents during the charge.

F. Friendly fire

Combatants in melee killed or wounded by their teammates must acknowledge these blows in the normal manner.

G. Dead Combatants

Dead combatants should die defensively by hiding under their shields or weapons and then leave the field as soon and as safely as possible at the marshal's direction. Dead combatants may neither hand weapons nor shout advice to the living.