The basics of PvP combat theory
ARTICLES OF COMBAT: BASIC THEORY
Fighting is a complex affair which requires wits, creativity and strength of character. When you fight a person, it is not just to test your latest macro, your latest trigger, your latest ability. It is a confrontation of the highest order. It is you versus them, in all its variegated splendour. This is why it is so painful to lose and so joyous to win. Combat in Avalon is unique; it does not favour anyone, not the quick-fingered, not the trigger-happy, not the pacifist or the aggressive, not individual professions. Know that everything is balanced. No matter what Guild you have chosen, you can win. It is up to you whether you do.
In your first fights, you will see that you don't have certain abilities, certain pieces of equipment, certain protective runes or curses. Do not despair. This is natural. It is part of the learning process which you must go through if you are to become one of the best. We have all been there. This phase teaches you how to recognise what you lack and how to identify the solution.
Although I've said I won't mention specifics, because I don't think they will benefit you in the long run, there are certain things everyone must have. For every piece of equipment that you have, it is essential that they have an oval rune (to prevent stealing and the charming of feeble, among other things), a snowflake rune (to prevent others picking up your item) and and a curse (to prevent being ordered or compulsed to remove or drop an item). These will protect you from the most basic forms of stripping equipment, a most horrid experience.
You must also have a method of invoking the pentacle spell, whether through the Charming skill or through a charged item. This is your panic button. It will give you time to breathe, even if for a moment, so that you can heal or cure whatever has been done to you. It is a way of slowing down combat, not stopping it. Pentacles can be overcome by various means, such as nullifying and scything.
You must know your herbs. Megillos, arkasu and malloran are essential. Athillias and denallo will also prove very beneficial in combat. Learn their uses and the order in which they cure afflictions -- every cure has a specific order of operation. Pay attention to the health and mana potions made by the loremasters. They are essential to your survival. Do not waste mana and equilibrium on healing or defence unless absolutely necessary.
With these basic things, you will come to understand the most rudimentary aspect of fighting: that you must survive in order to win.
To continue, read HELP LEVELLERS.
