((Of course, of course. :). But you understand why I had to make sure? Auto-hitting: Assuming any notable reaction or lack thereof on the part of another player's character, especially in a duel or fight. If you did not know, it was imperative you found out as quickly as possible. Using such a nebulous phrase as "testing the waters" as license to auto-hit might by someone who didn't know you or your methods be construed as cheating. Just as an example, Creev the RPer might have inserted such a phrase to indicate he wanted to play around a bit b/f getting started...but it could also merely have been Caleth the character reflecting on a cautious tactic, with no overtone into OOC. People in generaly can get really prickly about their heroes: I've seen guys lose it over someone else holding a blade to their warrior's chin without asking OOC (not that I'm talking about anyone making that mistake in particular, you understand...*whistles idly*).

And of course I don't mean to imply lack of experience on your part...but having played together in relatively few RPs (none of which featured serious RP dueling), I simply didn't know if you'd ever run across the more formal variety. Many RPers simply don't.

Soo...just checking. Proceed, gents.

;)

))

((Hey dude, no need to edit your last post, I know you're just doing some pre-battle badassery XD. However, when we actually start fighting-which is to say, now-please make sure to exaggarate the difference between "I'm aiming for" and " I hit". You know I won't throw a fit or anything, but a lot of other fighters will, and even I'll ask you to edit. Trust me, I'm pretty good at giving people the hits when they are due; just ask Tim. If you deserve the win, I'll give it to you no problem. I hope you're the same way.And thanks, Tim, for reffing xD)).

Caleth attack was parried, as planned. The next thing he knew, the enemy's spear was inches away from his head. He pulled away, in case the move was supposed to be fatal. "Next time you'll lose it," said the Shard-wielder in a tone of stern respect. Caleth backed up a couple of steps, creating distance between Rafien and himself. "Oho," he said jovially, "we have ourselves a talker. Alright, I'll admit, that spear move wasn't bad." Caleth sheathed Mercy, and drew his rapier from its sheath on his side. Spears were dreadfully difficult to use if you could get in close enough; the problem was doing just that. Caleth needed to be nimble, he needed to dance. And for this, his rapier was the blade of choice. He assumed the fencer's stance, right side turned towards Rafe, with his blade extended (but not completely) towards his opponents chest, with his right foot in front and his left foot perpendicular behind it. "Alright, talker," he said, suddenly serious, "show me how you dance."

((I understand Creev. I know how to do this.))

((How are feet perpendicular to each other?))

((Fencing stance:



Note how the feet do not run in the same direction. This improves balance, especially if struck.))

Rafe stepped back a few paces and planted his feet, holding the spear in front of him in case his enemy tried to approach. "You have said more than I have, my friend. I have given you your chance and you have wasted it. I apologize for what I now do." He shifted his grip on the spear and spun, quickly, swinging with all of his strength. "LIGHTNING!" he shouted as he spun, charging the metal tip and steel core with electricity, his insulated gloves protecting him from the charge. The spear swung in a flat line towards the enemy's stomach.