User Guide

Marshals' Manual Page 18 of 35
June 2002
1. TIME SCHEDULE
Some kind of time schedule should have been developed by the autocrat in conjunction with the facility
or event coordinators. Ideally, this schedule will be made available prior to the day of the demo. If the
demo is at a fair or an all-day event, post a schedule for combat for the public to see. The schedule
should include:
• When to arrive
• When to start armoring up
• How long the demo will last
2. LAYOUT OF THE COMBAT AREA
Lay out an area as described for a tournament. If the demo is taking place indoors, make sure the
ceiling, light fixtures, etc. are out of weapons reach.
3. MARSHAL ASSIGNMENT
There must be at least one (1) authorized marshal and two (2) assisting marshals in the list field while
combat is taking place. More emphasis should be placed on watching the perimeter during a demo that
at a tournament since there are typically more spectators unfamiliar with the potential dangers.
If there is room, have small melees with two- or three-man teams. Have at least one (1) marshal for
every two (2) combatants.
B. DURING COMBAT DEMONSTRATION
There is much more interaction between the combatants, and involvement with the public, than in the average
tournament or war. To this end, the marshalling is a bit different, as well.
1. INTERACTION WITH THE PUBLIC
Encourage the public to ask questions. This is a good change to tell people why you like doing
this. Combatants who are not fighting are encouraged to stand amongst the spectators and explain
what is happening during combat.
Acknowledge the blows loudly and clearly. Combatants should acknowledge blows received
loudly enough for the spectators to hear. If the combatants do not acknowledge their own blows, the
marshals should do so, especially in a demo situation. Avoid non-acknowledgement of blows to extend
combat as it confuses the audience. Instead, purposely throw blows that can be easily blocked for an
exchange or two before getting into a more competitive fight. For example, two combatants may work
out that they will make two passes before starting the real match.
Announce the combat. Always have a field herald announce who is fighting, what the conditions for
combat are (counted blows, to the death, etc.) before the combat begins. If the spectators know what
to expect, they will enjoy and understand the combat better. If a victor is determined, have the herald
announce who won.
2. COMBATANT BEHAVIOR
Allow the combatants to issue challenges. Combatants who are fighting are encouraged to issue
loud challenges, praise your opponents prowess, wax poetic about the honor of your lady, to add a little
atmosphere to the demo. Think of yourselves as actors in a movie or play rather than just combatants
on the field.
The use of excessive force as described in the Adrian Combat Manual is strictly forbidden in
any type of combat.