[i]Zande had indeed raised his axe, and the results of a hit were clear... But he hadn't yet struck or made clear where he was aiming!

It was understandable given the savage's strange timing. There had been an irregular pause as he wound up, and given the immense threat of the vicious axe most would prepare for it too soon. As the knight readied his shield, Zande took a sudden step forwards before attacking, aiming to plant his right foot upon the knight's left. The rubber soles and steel claws of his boot were specifically made to prevent escape. Given the size of the shield and the diversion of the axe, this trick could easily be missed. One would think Zande to be an outside fighter, who used reach to his advantage. He actually quite preferred getting close and personal.

If he succeeded in stepping on his target, then he'd lean in bearing his full weight into the stroke of his blow. Not aiming for the head or torso. Aiming right for the shield, just above that big center knob. A pulverizing blow of madman strength. When dealing with the defensive types, Zande knew well enough that the defences had to be dealt with first. He was trying to assail Zachary by fracturing or stunning the shield arm with the shock of the impact, or by breaking down the barricade itself! It might take more than a few bone numbing strikes to do so, but the scutum and the arm holding it couldn't last forever. He knew also that the knight may try attacking the foot he used for trapping with the bottom of his shield, or perhaps with a stab. Needless to say the wildman had seen it before.
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