I agreed to allow the player of a Humakt devotee to select Dual Sword
Combat as his main Close Combat subskill. After all, the Taraltara
(sp?) mystics can do it, so I figured a true son of Humakt could also
find a way to develop the skill. However, as per the previous
discussions on this topic, I did not want this to unbalance my game.
I would love some semi-official or official feedback on how this
skill should be handled. Here are some ideas I have been trying
lately...
- The dual wielding character must take a -10 improvisation penalty
when trying to avoid/deflect missiles in combat while using this
skill.
- From the start of any round initiated by the dual-wielding
character (at the time of his AP BID and declared action) until the
time of his next initiating round, this warrior must select either an
offensive or defensive use for his second weapon.
- If he selects offensive use, then any opponent targeted by
the dual wielding character is at -3 to his defensive skill
roll...treated basically as though facing an additional attacker,
even though only one sword will strike. Furthermore, the dualwielding
character will be at a -3 to his own defensive roll because
he is exposing himself by engaging both weapons in an attempt to harm
his foe--he is essentially overextending his body and focus. (I am
assuming that one blade is being used to feint, distract, etc.)
- If the dual-wielding character has selected a defensive
stance, he will gain +1 to his armor rank (more if the weapon is
iron), as though employing a shield and will suffer no handicap to
his defensive roll (once again, unless employing his dual wield skill
against an opponent with a missile weapon, as stated previously).
These are the rules I have been using, but I would really appreciate
more official input. What do you think Roderick?
Thanks in advance,
John Briquelet