Rapier:Marshaling on the field - Marshaling single combat

Marshaling single combat

1. There should be at least one marshal for single combat. Two or three will be able to see more of the fight. Four or more will get in each other's way and block the view from the sidelines without providing noticeably better marshaling.
2. How to observe combat
   1. In order to be a good witness and answer as accurately as possible, you need as clear a view as possible.
   2. You need to strike a balance between getting closer to see better and staying back out of range of the blows.
      1. Just what the appropriate distance is for you will depend on your level of experience with fighting (e.g., how well you can judge what the range of the weapons is and whether you are in or near it).
      2. In general, for single combat, 20 yards is too far and 2 yards is too close. In the absence of a better idea, consider 5 yards for weapons less than 3 feet in length and 8 yards if either combatant has a longer weapon.
   3. Try to keep moving so that the combatants are roughly centered between you and the other marshals for the fight.
3. In some kingdoms, and/or specific tournaments, the marshal may be asked to guide combatants through salutes. This is commonly done in an early round in a tournament. This is also good opportunity to ask whether the combatants are satisfied with their opponent’s arms and armor. The salutes are usually:
   1. Salute to the Crown
   2. Salute to their inspiration
   3. Salute to the crowd
   4. Salute to their opponent
   5. When the combatants are ready, call "lay on" (or its equivalent) loudly and clearly.