Clan Zellbriggen:

Zellbriggen is the method of combat devised after the Exodus from Terra. The most important aspect of Zellbriggen is single opponent combats. Breaking of the following rules brings dishonor to the offending clan and dishonor can be met with dishonor. Zellbriggen will be followed during all clan trials. Zellbriggen is not expected to be followed in league games as it does not apply. The general rules of Zellbrigen are as follows:

Each warrior on the attacking side will declare his target, and that target remains his only target until dispatched.

A Warrior will never fire on a 'Mech already engaged with another opponent. This means that no double teaming allowed.

A Warrior will at no time initiate physical attack, such as charging, punching, kicking, or clubbing. Only in the event that a Warrior has no more weapons at his or her disposal, may he or she engage in physical attacks.

A Warrior will at no time fire on a retreating 'Mech. To retreat, first you must declare that you are retreating.

A Warrior will at no time fire on a shutdown or fallen 'Mech.

A Warrior will at no time fire at the rear of a 'Mech.

Failure to adhere to Zellbriggen during combat will cause loss of honor for a warrior, as well as serious repercussions from his or her commanding officer. The use of IDF, or indirect fire, will also result in a loss of honor. Any mech participating in a Trial of Entry that is hit by IDF, in addition to the cadet's current target, can engage the cadet that fired upon them . This is a very risky tactic, but could bring great honor to a cadet if victorious. However, in the event that the enemy fails to follow Zellbriggen, one may return the dishonor. For example, if the enemy attacks using physicals, the warrior may return the physical only to that enemy. In the event where the enemy as a whole act dishonorably, the commanding clan officer may call a Grand Melee, at which point the battle field becomes a free for all--a Warrior may at this point use any means at his or her disposal to terminate the enemy. To a true Clan Warrior, Zellbriggen is the path for honorable combat. However, strictly following Zellbriggen does not ensure honor. In addition, true clan warriors will also try to challenge themselves by battling the strongest and toughest of the enemy. Success under greater odds are a testament to a warrior's skills and honor.