Melee Commands Everyone should know
Atlantia rapier commanders use a standard set of commands to communicate their intention to the army. All fighters should learn to recognize and execute each of these commands.
Frequently used commands
Advance
Move the unit forward in a straight line. A descriptor will usually be given indicating speed and where to go. The unit should not stop until they reach the indicated destination point regardless of enemy combatants or given a new command.
Shift Right/Left
Move horizontally in the required direction without necessarily leaving combat spacing
Flank Right/Left
Run around the end of an enemy formation and engage either the backfield or the end person with numbers
Stay the Line
HOLD THIS POSITION. Also heard stand fast and set the line.
Rally
Gather and reform units after enemy action has disrupted cohesion
Form SHAPE LOCATION
While a shape isn’t a plan, it is a historically and functionally accurate way to attain the condition you wish to implement.
Common usage:
- Form a Killing cup at the end of that alley
- Form a Line here
- Form a block in front of this flag
- Shields – form up in the front.
Step (Rare)
Throw more blows and grind down the enemy, stepping forward in a cadence call approximately one step per 2 seconds as a synchronized line.
Press/Push
This is a purposeful advance with blows continuously being thrown. The unit should not hesitate in their movement and continue to make steady progress forward regardless of enemy combatants.
Turn Right/Left
Turn is used for an immediate change of a unit’s direction by pivoting either left or right, causing a modification in the configuration of the unit.
Fall Back
is given to disengage a unit from the enemy or to create distance from the enemy. Also heard as pull back.
Step Out NAME
This is used to pull a specific fighter or unit out a line. Once movement starts remaining units and fighters should shift to cover the gaps. The individual or unit will be issued new commands once pulled from the line.
Leaving
Fight or unit calls this to allow the units to left and right to know they are stepping out of the line.
Joining
Fighter or unit calls this to allow the units to the left and right to know they are joining the line.
Rarely used commands
Pulse
This command is used to engage the enemy in an immediate frontal assault for a short period of time.
Dress the Line
This command refers to making sure the line is straight by checking the distance and position of the person to the direction indicated, or each side.