Fandom High Dormitories

"Dodging," Arthur started, as soon as all had assembled, "Is a fine art in and of itself. When you lose your weapon, you may not be able to replace it. And even if you do have it, it might be useful to avoid being struck in the face." He paused briefly, grinning once. "But ask Zack about that. Today, we will be practicing that skill: it's a basic fighting technique, but there's no reason we shouldn't be brushing up on it."

Zack did his best to look indignant, but mostly he just came off as 'playfully pouty.' It was entirely possible that the muscles in his face had forgotten how to look indignant years ago.

"We're not going to do full-out sparring today, because there are so many different skill levels here, and we don't have a means of pairing you off the same way that Fight Club has. But we are going to pair you off anyhow. One of you will be our designated hitter, and please, don't use any powers, or super strength, or anything like that until your partner confirms that it's alright. The other one will dodge. Don't get hit, guys. It's not really all that fun. Throw a few hits, dodge a few hits, and swap off every five minutes." He swayed on his heels for a moment, and then added. "If anyone ends up hurt, then stop. If the injury is serious, let us know right away so that I can give you a healing potion or so we can get your butt to the clinic post-haste."

"Above all, share what you know," Arthur finished. "If someone conducts a particularly ambitious swerve, ask how, and attempt to repeat it. Remember to keep your distance, to watch your opponent's movements, and not to lose control of your own. I believe that's everything; grab a partner, and get to work."

"Alright!" When the Reserves crew assembled today, they'd be greeted by Zack, holding up... Half a sword! The last two feet of the length of his blade were nowhere to be seen, and what survived was the hilt, and a length of metal that had definitely seen better days. "Broken weapons! They happen! I know some of you think your blades are all but invincible, but considering the sorts of things we see around here every day, I think it'd be safe to assume that someday, something will invade that stands a chance at disarming even you."

Like, say, Klingons.

Zack tossed what was left of his sword onto the ground at his feet, and then crossed his arms over his chest.

"A broken weapon means that you're going to have two problems. First, the very immediate issue of an enemy that quite possibly has now gained a serious upper hand against you. And second, the eventual repair or replacement of your weapon." He perked a little, giving his hands a clap together. "So! What we're going to do today is discuss both. Can you hold your own in a fight with something big and mean if you've been disarmed? Is your weapon still capable of doing some damage with what might be left? My sword isn't any good for attacking anymore, but at least I can use it to block incoming attacks with what's still there. And then talk about the repair or replacement. Is there someone on the island who can fix your weapon in particular? Can you find another one if it's beyond repair, or is it one of a kind?"

"Some of you may remember the meeting we held on searching your environment for an appropriate weapon," Arthur cut in, "In a pinch, remember to look around you, and to make use of what you've got. In fact, you're best off making sure you've got the measure of the area before you even start - lest you lose a flail and don't know to find the blunt instrument you might need to take out your enemy." NOT THAT HE KNEW ANYTHING ABOUT THAT. "Look around the grounds -- do you see anything you could use to your advantage if disarmed? And, on a related note - how great are your skills of avoidance -- although we'll go into that next week."

[OCD is up and the Reserves are open to all!]