Editing Arabian Nights:Action and Adventure (section)

==The Basics==

A very simple procedure can be used to resolve a sword fight between two adversaries.  Both combatants make skill rolls.  The winner has momentarily gained the upper hand and has an opportunity to scratch his opponent.  Both combatants make then strength rolls.  If the character that won the contest of skill also wins the contest of strength, then his opponent has been scratched.  If not, then the first round has not given either party any advantage.

The procedure continues, round by round, until the same character becomes scratched twice in the same battle. At this point he has lost and his adversary must roll on the defeat table.

Note that each round is about ten seconds in length.  This provides ample time for a character to yield if he fears for his safety.  However, impious opponents will not necessarily show mercy.  Also note that scratches are only temporary.  If a scratched character is not attacked directly for six full rounds he is fully recovered.  Note that even unsuccessful attacks will prevent this recovery.

So if a fight is going against you, pause for some dialogue or zip away on a rope and then come back swinging!