Stances, Wounds, and the Cost of Standing

Threats on the shore, canyon, and tablelands do not wait politely. A traveler who engages chooses a stance — Strike, Skirmish, or Hex — and hopes it matches what the enemy fears.

Blows land softly compared to old war stories. Armor matters. Dexterity steadies the eye. A miss writes itself into the log as zero damage and another breath spent.

When the fight ends, health does not reset like a dream. Field bandages and tavern rests restore what combat took. Defeat leaves the wounded at empty strength until someone pays for recovery — or eats the last dried apple in the pack.