Deadliest Warrior: Rice Man's Edition

by Its Rice Man

Throughout history there have been many warriors who left their mark on their respective cultures. Now, with modern science and technology DeadAliveManiac, Zivon96, MKDemiGodzilla-Warrior, Its Rice Man and Metal Harbinger bring these legends back to life to compete and find out who is...THE DEADLIEST WARRIOR! (BACK FOR BLOOD SEASON 3 ONGOING).

78. Saxon Huskarl vs Byzantine Infantry

A/N: Here is another battle that has been debated among me and my DW panel and it was tough to come up with a winner since these two warriors are closely matched up. For those of you who don't know the Byzantine empire had fought against the Normans in 1081 and of course, the Huskarl had fought the Normans at Hastings in 1066 so I thought it would be cool to pit two warriors who combated the Normans against each other. The Byzantine infantry would see the Huskarl as a similar opponent to the Normans which would be another thing that makes it interesting.

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(An Englishman appearing similar to a Viking in chainmail and steel helmet takes his axe and chops down at an unseen opponent.)

Saxon Huskarl: The elite backbone of England's Anglo-Saxon army who kept an iron nerve and fought to the last man at Hastings.

(A Huskarl charges towards a Norman soldier. He brings his sword onto the invader's head slicing it vertically in two.)

vs.

(Another man wearing steel lamellar and a cap takes his massive spear and thrusts it at the camera.)

Byzantine Infantry: The front line soldier of the Byzantine empire who served one of the most successful armies ever to grace western Eurasia.

(A Byzantine soldier clashes swords with a Norman, he finds an opening in his opponent's defenses and thrusts his spathion into the man's gut.)

WHO...IS...DEADLIEST?!

To find out, we've assembled a team of world class fighters to test history's most lethal weapons. Using 21st century science, we'll see what happens when two warriors go toe to toe.

No rules. No safety. No mercy. It's a duel to the death to decide who is...THE DEADLIEST WARRIOR!

Here in our elite fight club we have gathered doctors, medical scientists and weapons experts to test out the lethal arsenals wielded by each of our combatants to determine who would win a fight between two of the ancient world's foremost front line soldiers.

Saxon Huskarl

Circa: 1066 A.D.

Height: 5'10''

Weight: 180 lbs.

Armor: Chainmail Hauberk, Iron Helmet, Wooden Shield

Byzantine Infantry

Circa: 1081 A.D.

Height: 5'8''

Weight: 160 lbs.

Armor: Steel Lamellar, Phrygian Cap w/ Mail Coif, Kite Shield

''On this episode we are featuring two of the 11th century's most famous warriors. On one side of the spectrum we have the Saxon Huskarl who were the upper class warriors of Anglo-Saxon England and they most famously fought William the Conqueror and his Normans at Hastings and were defeated. On the other end you have the Byzantine infantry who were among the most disciplined warriors within the Komnenian-era Byzantine empire. It's going to be a good battle between two elite infantry warriors and I can't wait to see this unfold.'' Ancient weapons, tactics and combat historian DeadAliveManiac started off.

''You said it DAM and it will definitely be a close battle in regards of the history and battle prowess of these warriors. I think I'll give the edge to the Huskarl because he's carrying bigger and badder weapons that'll definitely leave more than a mark on the Byzantine's armor despite the latter's being superior.'' Medical expert Zivon96 said explaining his choice.

''Then I'll go with the Byzantine soldier.'' Weapons geek MKDemigodZ-Warrior countered, ''They were the Byzantine empire's best front-line troops and I think their professional military training and better armor will help them win against the Huskarls. The steel lamellar is going to absorb almost all blows from the Huskarl's weapons.''

''It's definitely going to be a great battle between two awesome soldiers. They carry with them the basic weapons of the ancient world from swords, spears, maces, and axes and I can't wait to see who wins this battle. I myself can't make a decision on who wins this match but after the weapon testing and x-factor evaluation I'll probably have my mind made up.'' Modern weapons, warfare and tactics specialist PFC Rice Man said.

The Huskarl were an elite military organization of Anglo-Danish warriors that served as the guards and professional soldiers of the late Anglo-Saxon kings of England. Founded by Canute the Great, the Danish ruler of England in the early 11th century, the Huscarls were modeled upon the Jomsvikings; another elite Viking military society of the age. In fact the original Huscarls were built around a nucleus of Jomsvikings who had come to England years earlier under the famous Viking leader, Thorkell the Tall.

''They are most famous for battling and defeating the Vikings at Stamford bridge. They also battled the Normans at Hastings and were decisively defeated and despite that defeat they kept an iron nerve and fought until they were all killed.'' Explained Rice Man.

Each Huskarl was armed as an elite warrior, usually wearing mail shirt, conical helmet, shield, sword, spear, and axe. Their sword hilts and axe blades were famously gilded with gold; a symbol of their elite status. Like the Jomsvikings, the Huskarls maintained a rigorous code of conduct; and kept strict discipline both in camp and in the field.

''They are very similar to the Vikings in terms of weapons and armor but were an elite warrior society. The Byzantine has a new challenge he'd better be prepared for because if he isn't he just might end up a bloodied corpse on the ground.'' Rice Man concluded.

The Saxon comes armed with a savage arsenal he used to defend this kingdom against all threats.

Short Range: Anglo-Saxon Longsword

Mid-Range: Dane Axe

Long Range: Boar Spear

Special: Scramasax

Today however, the Saxon will confront a new enemy. A foot soldier from an army that was a direct descendant of the mighty Roman legions.

The Byzantine army or Eastern Roman army was the primary military body of the Byzantine armed forces, serving alongside the Byzantine navy. A direct descendant of the Roman army, the Byzantine army maintained a similar level of discipline, strategic prowess and organization. It was among the most effective armies of western Eurasia for much of the Middle Ages.

''Like their Roman ancestors these warriors were just as disciplined and trained as the Legionaries. They may have had a few noticeable defeats but nonetheless they were unmatched for some time.'' Rice Man explained.

At the beginning of the Komnenian period in 1081, the Byzantine Empire had been reduced to the smallest territorial extent in its history. Surrounded by enemies, and financially ruined by a long period of civil war, the empire's prospects had looked grim. The state lay defenseless before internal and external threats, as the Byzantine army had been reduced to a shadow of its former self.

''They left their imprint in history as a well trained, disciplined and lethal military force just as their Roman ancestors did. It was thanks to them that for most of it's existence the Byzantine empire was the most powerful economic, cultural, and military force in Europe. The Saxon will be in for the hardest battle of his life.'' Rice Man finished.

The Byzantine soldier charges into battle with weapons he used to ensure the success of the mighty Byzantine army.

Short Range: Spathion

Mid-Range: Menaulion

Long Range: Riptarion

Special: Mantzoukion

Both warriors used deadly swords to decapitate and kill their foes, up first will be the Byzantine soldier with the descendant of the Roman spatha.

''The Spathion was the primary weapon of Byzantine infantry. It was made of steel and has a blade that tapered a bit along the length of it and was a little over 3 feet long. It was very heavy and descendant of the Roman spatha.'' Byzantine re-enactor Carinus Dalmatius explained.

To test the spathion, DAM has set up two torsos, one unarmored and one armored in the Huskarl's chainmail hauberk and wooden shield to gauge the sword's damage potential.

''Okay Carinus, there we have two Saxon Huskarls ready for you to destroy. We will give you three strikes on these two guys to see what kind of damage you can do especially the armored torso. Sound simple enough?'' DAM said.

''Simple enough.'' Carinus replied getting into position.

''Okay Carinus, on 3...2...1...HACK AND SLASH AWAY!" DAM called out.

''Gia ti vyzantiní aftokratoría!'' Carinus bellowed out before he swings his sword at the unarmored torso's neck, taking the head off in one fell swoop. He follows up with a slice down into the torso's shoulder and finishes it off with a thrust through the heart. Moving over to the armored torso he swings his spathion at the shield, cutting into it and slightly denting it, undeterred he thrusts his blade through the torso's unprotected face and ends it with one final thrust through the chest before taking his blade and raising it high into the air shouting in victory.

''Wow, that was pretty amazing work there Carinus.'' Rice Man commented as Zivon walks over to assess the damage.

''Firstly here with your unarmored target, your first move is quite obvious, deeeeeecapitatioooooooooon and instant death for this sap. Your second swing down onto his shoulder cut deep into his body and you cut his subclavian artery and the bleeding is going to be his downfall unless he gets to a doctor right now. Moving on the the armored target you swung at the shield but it wasn't enough to break right through but I'm guessing one arm might be broken behind the shield. You followed it up with a thrust to the face which would cut into the brainstem killing him easily. Your final thrust got him in the heart and that one is an obvious one.''

''That's the spathion for you, just as bad ass and killer as the Roman spatha.'' Carinus spoke with a nod.

The team then reviews the testing of the Viking longsword and Norman broadsword and after seeing similarities between the Viking, Norman, and Huskarl's blade, they debate for a few minutes before coming to their final decision.

''I can see the damage with both these blades being near identical. They are nearly the same length and I don't see anything that one carries to gain it the edge over the other.'' DAM started off.

''I agree as well, looking at the trauma and damage the Viking's sword can cause I see similar trauma and pain being done by the Huskarl's sword. The spathion does similar damage as well and based on that I give this edge as even.'' Zivon seconded.

''Well, I guess you two are right. We saw the same type of damage with similar swords and both are almost the same in design.'' Demigod added.

''Agreed, whoever is the more skilled warrior with his weapon and whoever hits first wins. The spathion can get through the hauberk but I don't see the Saxon sword doing much against the lamellar but I'm gonna call it even regardless because of the similar trauma.'' Rice Man concluded.

In short range weapons, our warriors are even.

Coming up, a Viking's trademark battle axe goes up against a thick shafted skewering spear and then later, two throwing projectiles come forth.

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Now both warriors bring out their favorite mid-range weapons. Since we've already tested the Dane axe before multiple times we will move on with the Byzantine infantry's menaulion.

''The menaulion or menavlion was a heavy spear with a thick shaft that was used by the Byzantine infantry as early as the 10th century A.D. mainly against enemy heavy cavalry. To give it increased strength, whole oak or cornel saplings were preferably used. These were then tipped with a long blade of about 19 inches in length. This one here is 8 feet long.'' Carinus explained.

To test out the menaulion, DAM has set up one static target that will be unarmored while the second target will be an attack bot outfitted in the armor of the Huskarl to simulate a charging enemy soldier.

''Okay Carinus, we have that one attack bot there and we will release it to represent a charging Huskarl right after you've dealt with the first target. Whenever you're ready just get into position.'' Demigod said.

''This is easy, let's get this started.'' Carinus replied.

''Alright, on 3...2...1...impale 'em!" DAM shouted.

With his spear ready, Carinus rushes towards the first target and shoves the spear through it's stomach spilling stage blood from the wound, so much that there was a medium-sized puddle on the floor.

''Damn! Look at how much blood there is!" Exclaimed DAM.

Smirking in satisfaction at the gore he caused, Carinus gives a mighty tug to free the spear from the confines of the torso before turning towards the next target. Demigod, who was in charge of the attack bot pushes the joystick on his remote forward and the bot speeds it's way towards the expert. ''Take this you Saxon asshole!" Carinus roared as he thrusts the spear into the attack bot with all his might and was met with success as the spear goes straight through the hauberk clean through, a massive downpour of blood seeping from under the armor and spilling all over the floor.

''Dang man, look at that spigot's worth of blood.'' Rice Man commented as Zivon walks over to inspect the damage.

''Now this is one of the nastiest sights I have ever seen on this show. For a spear the amount of blood spilling out of these guys is insane. For the first target you shoved that thing straight through his stomach literally turning him into a Saxon kabob. He's dead on arrival. For your second and armored target you shoved with so much force that the spearhead had no problem penetrating through the chainmail hauberk and the area you hit him got him straight through the sternum and cut the aorta causing instant death. It's a pretty nasty way to die gents.'' Explained the good Canadian doctor.

''And I guarantee that the last thing these two would've seen is this massively thick spear stuck in their bodies.'' Demigod said.

''This armor is a like t-shirt for my spear.'' Boasted Carinus.

Saxon Huskarl re-enactor Harold Godley stood beside Carinus shaking his head in disapproval, he was obviously unimpressed by the menaulion. ''I agree, the damage is undeniable but it's just another spear guys. The Dane axe will cut the shaft in half easily.''

We've seen the Dane axe many times before, so the team will now have the expert use it to gauge it's effectiveness against the body armor of the Byzantine infantry.

''The Dane axe has been used many times in past episodes so we're gonna see what you can do against an armored target.'' DAM said pointing to a new torso clad in the steel lamelllar, helmet and shield of the Byzantine. Do you think you can do some damage?'' DAM said.

''Yeah, I can definitely make more than a mark on that armor.'' Harold said confidently as he gets into position in front of the victim.

''Okay, on 3...2...1...DESTROY!" DAM called out.

Harold roars in savage ferocity as he brings the axe in a swing striking the kite shield with enough force to leave a moderate crack in it's surface. Harold then uses the axe as a fulcrum and shoves the kite shield to the side. He then raises the axe high above his head and brings it down with such force that the torso was sent rocking from the violent impact, the result was a clean cleave through the phrygian cap. Readying for his last blow, Harold kicks the torso onto it's back and once again brings his axe high above his head and brings it down onto the steel lamellar, despite not piercing through the armor he repeatedly strikes the armor several more times, each hit sending a 'ding' ringing through the fight club before he finally stops his assault. ''Alright I'm done now.''

The panel then walks over so Zivon can assess the damage.

''Well, I can see that you seriously put some ferocity in your attack. The first strike to the shield was definitely enough to break a bone in his arm and you even cracked the shield. This kite shield will not be able to take repeated blows from your axe and that broken bone in his arm would leave him temporarily stunned and open to other attacks.'' Zivon then bends down onto his knees to further inspect the armored torso, ''Now, for the phrygian cap, well, you cut straight through it and into the crown of his skull for a kill.'' He then feels around the steel lamellar finding it dented severely but with no visible penetration. ''This armor did it's job in protecting it's user against your weapon. However, I guarantee that there are at least two, three or four broken ribs underneath this lamellar and in the end it won't be good for this guy, you probably even sent some bone fragments from his ribs into his lungs causing further damage.''

''So is this guy dead or not doc?'' Demigod asked out of curiosity.

'' Besides the phrygian cap being cut in half, He's beaten to a pulp, if Harold keeps his assault up, he can die from the blunt trauma alone.'' Answered the Canadian.

Carinus walked over and shook his head in disapproval, a cocky smile plastering his face. ''You did kill me with that hit on the head but aside form that, a broken bone in my arm and a few broken ribs? The Byzantine infantry can still fight despite those minor setbacks. My spear can keep you at a distance and I noticed you seemed a bit fatigued at the end of your test.''

''Your spear is too long and unwieldy and against a Huskarl with this monster of an axe, you're done for buddy.'' Harold shot back.

After gauging the menaulion and Dane axe, which mid-range weapon does the panel believe takes the edge?

''Despite the inability to penetrate through the Byzantine steel lamellar, I have to give the edge to the Dane axe for it's greater force with each hit.'' DAM started off.

''I disagree and give this to the menaulion because it doesn't tire the user out with repeated usage of the weapon and can easily kabob it's way through the Huskarl's chainmail hauberk like a blowtorch through butter.'' Zivon countered.

''Well, you do have a point Zivon but the Dane axe is better because it's not crazy long like the menaulion and the damage it causes on a body is just insane. Remember you will look like a train ran you over when it's through with you.'' Demigod said.

''I'm with DAM and Demigod, aside from it's horrendous damage the fact that it can easily cut the menaulion's shaft and then the Byzantine along with it gives it my edge.'' Rice Man concluded.

In long range weapons, the edge goes to the Saxon Huskarl for the Dane axe.

Coming up, we will bring out two throwing projectiles to determine which one will give it's warrior the advantage in long range.

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Now things are taken to long range and for our warriors they both used simple, yet effective tools of the trade to take down foes from a distance. Since we've seen the boar spear before in use with the Viking, our panel will conduct the necessary tests needed to gauge its performance against the Byzantine armor and likewise, the Byzantine riptarion is no different from the javelin wielded by the Spartan Hoplite.

''We've seen these two weapons before or weapons that were very similar to them. So we're just going to have you two test those projectiles out against the opposing armor to see the effects understood? Harold you can go first with those boar spears of yours.'' DAM said.

The Saxon expert nodded and got into position with a rack containing four boar spears ready for use.

''Alright man, whenever you're ready go ahead and get those spears into the armored target.'' Rice Man said.

Harold turns towards the rack and takes a spear in hand. He sets his sights on the target which is clad in the Byzantine's steel lamellar armor. He closes one eye and then proceeds to hurl his spear at the target. The spear impacts the armor and gets stuck in the armor for a second before falling out. Undeterred the expert takes his second spear and hurls this one with so much force that the torso was rocking back slightly from the impact, the spear managing to pierce through the armor but like the first one it falls out. Taking the last two spears Harold chucks one at the torso before tossing the second one right after and both manage to strike the target, the fourth spear hitting the torso square in the face.

''I think that last spear did the job.'' Harold said stepping aside so Zivon can properly assess the damage.

''You know Harold, despite your attacks to the armor didn't yield enough penetration to deal lethal damage I liked the accuracy with the last spear hitting this guy square in the nose.'' Zivon then takes the spear out of the torso's face, ''You got enough penetration to get him in the brainstem cutting off all signals to the body delivering the instant kill. Moving on to all the attacks on the steel lamellar each spear got only about an inch of penetration. Obviously this armor is doing it's job in protecting the Byzantine and absorbing the blows. One spear was a kill while the others delivered only slight penetration.'' Concluded the Canadian.

''That stinks, but at least I got a killing blow in.'' Harold said.

''Your boar spears struggled against the lamellar, my riptarion can definitely pierce through your hauberk to deliver that needed kill.'' Carinus spoke up.

''Think you can do any better?'' Demigod asked with an eyebrow raised.

''I don't think, I know I can do better.'' Carinus replied.

Now it's Carinus's turn to test out the Byzantine infantry's riptarion against the chainmail hauberk of the Huskarl and much like Harold he will have four shots.

''Alright man, whenever you're ready you may begin.'' DAM said.

Nodding, Carinus walks up to the rack where four riptarions were neatly placed and takes two of them in each hand. Turning to face the torso now clad in the chainmail hauberk of the Huskarl he hurls both javelins at the same time and both manage to find their marks hitting the target both in the stomach area and the right side of the chest achieving penetration. Smirking, Carinus takes the remaining javelins and hurls one at the target striking it in the shoulder region before hurling the last one and this time hitting the target in the left chest.

''Well, I think my riptarion performed better than your spears buddy.'' Carinus said cockily at Harold who only gives him the middle finger.

The panel then walks over to assess the damage done by the riptarion.

''Alright, let me see what we have here.'' Zivon said watching Rice Man and Demigod remove all the riptarions from the torso. ''The first javelin struck the target in the right side of the chest and the depth of penetration was about one and a half inches and there is blood on it but it's just a flesh wound at best.'' Zivon then inspected the other there javelins and noticed the same with the first one. ''Okay, I see that the other three achieved the same degree of penetration as the first javelin so these are all going to be flesh wounds despite that they can pierce through the hauberk.''

Carinus's grin then turned into an annoyed frown until Harold stepped up and patted him on the shoulder.

''Seems that you didn't deliver the kill you said you'd deliver. Sure you pierced through the hauberk but it wasn't enough to cause real damage and just flesh wounds.'' Spoke Harold, now he's the cocky one.

''Regardless of what you say Harold, I can still pierce your armor while your spears can barely penetrate through the lamellar.'' Carinus retorted.

Both long range weapons have shown us what they can do against the opposing armor. So which one does the panel believe takes the edge in this category?

''I am going with the riptarion based on the fact that it will have an easier time penetrating the chainmail hauberk as opposed to the boar spear against the lamellar.'' DAM started off.

''I disagree and go with the boar spear. It has a larger head and can function as both a projectile and a close range weapon when the need calls for it.'' Zivon countered.

''Well, despite the armor failure I'll go with the boar spear because it's longer and the bigger head equals more trauma.'' Demigod said.

''For me, I'm gonna side with both Demigod and Zivon on this one and go with the boar spears. They require less training and as Demigod said, it is the more damaging weapon and the more effective weapon at long, mid and close range giving it more usage on the field.'' Rice Man concluded.

''You know what, you guys suck I'm outta here, twas a fun time hosting this show.'' DAM said with his hands up, he gets up from his seat and walks out of the fight club.

''Wat.'' Zivon and Rice Man said in unison.

''Huh, I guess he couldn't handle being outvoted three to one.'' Demigod said before the door to the fight club opens and in walks DAM.

''Nah, I'm just kidding you guys.'' DAM said.

''Um..okay.'' Was all Demigod said while Zivon and Rice Man just stared at the historian like he was crazy.

In long range weapons, the edge goes to the Saxon Huskarl for the boar spear.

Coming up, we conclude the weapon testing by bringing out the favored special weapons of these two warriors and then after, two sets of reliable armor are compared and then our battle begins!

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Now we conclude the weapon testing by bringing forth the preferred special weapons of our warriors. For the Saxon Huskarl he wielded the scramasax and the Byzantine infantry brought the mantzoukion to battle.

''This is the scramasax. It had a very machete-like blade that had the cutting edge longer than the back side. The point is also long and sharp and in total this weapon weighed 2 pounds and measures up to 19 inches long.'' Harold explained holding his weapon proudly.

''Great looking weapon, and what do you bring to counter it Carinus?'' DAM asked.

Carinus takes his weapon and holds it high to present it to the panel and Harold. ''This is the mantzoukion. It's one of the many types of maces the Komnenian-era Byzantine army used in battle and was popular with the cavalry as well. It was a flanged mace design with an iron head on the end of a 2 foot handle. It weighed about 5 pounds total.''

''Now that weapons reminds of a particular mace we've seen before on this show.'' DAM said before Demigod moves over to the target set ups.

''Okay guys, we'll first test out each weapon against an unarmored torso to see what kind of damage each weapon can inflict on flesh. Then after that we'll see what you can do against the opposing armor.'' Demigod explained.

Both experts nod and get into position next to each other and in front of their targets. Both of them give each other a grin.

''Okay guys, on 3...2...1...attack!" DAM called out.

Carinus gives off a feral war cry as be brings the mace down onto his target's head obliterating the gel bust completely sending a splash of skull, blood and brain matter all over himself. At the same time Harold grabs the torso by the shoulder and proceeds to jam the scramasax into it's gut and repeatedly thrusts it into the target turning the insides into mush while yelling wildly.

''Holy crap, what the heck is with that ferocity?'' Zivon questioned as he slowly lowers himself behind the desk.

Carinus smirks in satisfaction at the carnage his mace caused before kicking the torso over and goes to deliver repeated swings to the torso's chest pulverizing the ever living day lights out of it turning the chest into gel smoothie. As for Harold he then takes the scramasax and slits his target's throat before driving the blade through the eye before kicking it over.

Both experts then raise their hands high and shout out; ''ALL DONE.''

The panel was left staring at the two experts with wide-eyes before Rice Man broke the silence. ''Yeah well, anyway Zivon go check and see what they did to these poor bastards.'' Said the prior-serviceman.

Zivon slowly makes his way over to inspect the ravaged torsos. ''Okay...so gents, for Carinus here he took that mace and brought that thing down onto the top of this guy's skull and it took just one blow, one blow to completely smash this head open and spilling his brains all over Carinus's clothes.'' He then feels the torso's chest and winces in disgust at the damage it received. ''Holy shit, his rib cage, heart and lungs are totally destroyed from repeated blows Carinus did with his mace. In conclusion it would take just one hit to kill someone with the mantzoukion anywhere on the body.''

The medic then makes his way over towards Harold and his victim. ''For Harold's scramasax, I'm seeing the blade penetrating deep into his body and it would be enough to strike vital organs such as the heart and I can see the stomach has been turned into mush. He slit his throat severing all major arteries and plunged that blade into this dude's eye getting into the brain for a kill.''

''That was some serious display of awesomeness, now let's see what you guys can do against armor.'' DAM said motioning for the camera crew to bring out the new targets. ''Carinus you can go first.''

Carinus nods and taking his mace, he charges at the torso clad in the chainmail hauberk and brings the mace down onto the helmet smashing it completely inwards like a tin can before swinging it again, only this time he swung it sideways and strikes the target in the chest sending it falling over with a thud.

''Alright Zivon, you know what to do.'' Demigod said pointing at the downed torso.

''Yeah, whatever. So anyway the first strike onto the helmet generated about 200 PSI meaning that you definitely caused a nice skull fracture.'' The good medic then removes the helmet. ''Look at that, his head is crushed in.'' He feels around the torso's armor-clad chest and nods in approval. ''You broke his rib cage, he's dead.''

''That's the beauty of the mantzoukion, smashing everything in it's path.'' Carinus said.

DAM looks at Harold, ''Your target is ready, go ahead and attack.'' Said the nerdy looking man.

Harold wasted no time in lunging straight at his target and thrusts his scramasax into the stomach, however the steel lamellar held up against the attack. Undeterred, Harold takes his weapon a little higher and thrusts it into the chest but like before, the lamellar holds true. Grunting in annoyance, he grabs the portion of the lamellar ending where the torso's neck was and thrusted the scramasax into the target's neck sending blood gushing out of the wound.

''Alright, let's see what you did.'' Zivon said. ''Well, it's obvious from what I see that you only managed to leave small holes with both your attacks so you're not penetrating the armor whatsoever. You made it up though with a thrust into this guy's neck and down into his heart for an instant kill. Not bad since you still killed him and that's what matters.'' Explained the medic.

''Sorry buddy, remember that you can try as much as you want you're not piercing through the steel lamellar while I can just smash your hauberk to pieces.'' Carinus snorted.

''Your weapon like all maces is one-dimensional, my weapon allows for smoother movement, speed and can slash and stab.'' Harold said.

After testing out the scramasax and mantzoukion against the opposing armor, which one does our panel believe takes the edge? The panel is divided.

''The scramasax may be a blade, but it was unable to pierce through the Byzantine's armor and left only small holes. The mantzoukion however, can do more than just break the chainmail hauberk. Edge mantzoukion.'' DAM started off.

''I am in full agreement. I really like the mantzoukion on its ability to completely destroy the chainmail hauberk in just one move. The Saxon's armor, helmet and shield wouldn't protect him from it.'' Zivon seconded.

Demigod however, was having other thoughts.

''I don't know guys, when it comes to comparisons like these the blade wins out a lot of the time so I'm going with the scramasax for having options.'' Demigod countered.

''I disagree with you there and side with the mantzoukion. The immense damage is something that you simply cannot ignore. It's made to bludgeon through armor and if it hits you, well good luck. Mantzoukion takes this for damage and better results against armor regardless if it's solid plate or chainmail with plates.'' Rice Man finished.

In special weapons, the edge goes to the Byzantine infantry for the mantzoukion.

Now, to conclude our testing we will physically compare the Saxon Huskarl's chainmail hauberk against the Byzantine infantry's steel lamellar.

''I am giving this all to the Byzantine infantry. His armor incorporates steel lamellar which has shown itself to be one of the most reliable and strongest sets of armor on this show.'' DAM said.

''The helmet goes to the Saxon, the shields in my mind are even but the body armor goes to the Byzantine.'' Zivon seconded.

''I second that notion, the Saxon would have a harder time breaking through the lamellar as opposed to the Byzantine breaking through the hauberk.'' Demigod said in agreement.

''I don't know, the Byzantine infantry is just wearing a phrygian cap with a mail coif so the helmet goes to the Huskarl, shields are even but the lamellar edges out the chainmail hauberk. In a way I guess you can say that both warriors literally even each other out.'' Rice Man said, a little more apprehensive on the matter.

In the armor category, the edge goes to the Byzantine infantry for the steel lamellar.

Coming up! We evaluate the necessary x-factors of these two soldiers with our beloved Metal Harbinger and our battle between the 11th century's most trained warriors will commence!

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Welcome back to the fight club, here we tested wielded by the 11th century's most formidable foot soldiers to determine who is deadliest.

For short range weapons, both the spathion and the Anglo-Saxon longsword were determined to be equally damaging.

''Both swords resemble each other in many ways, shape and form. In our conclusion the first warrior to get that first hit in wins.'' DAM explained.

Edge: Even

For mid-range weapons, the Saxon Huskarl's vicious Dane axe cut down the Byzantine infantry's menaulion.

''The menaulion is a very long and can be an unwieldy spear unless used against cavalry. Since this isn't a cavalry battle the Dane axe is the better-suited weapon and can cut the spear's shaft and then the Byzantine with it.'' Explained Zivon.

Edge: Saxon Huskarl

For long range weapons, the Saxon Huskarl's boar spears proved themselves overall better than the Byzantine infantry's riptarion.

''The riptarion performed very much the same as the Spartan Hoplite's javelin and we all know how shitty that weapon is. The boar spear can be effective at all ranges and it has a larger head for more damage.'' Demigod explained.

Edge: Saxon Huskarl

For special weapons, the Byzantine infantry's destructive mantzoukion beat back the Saxon's scramasax.

''For sheer power, trauma and easily destroying the chainmail hauberk the edge easily goes to the mantzoukion. Nuff said.'' Rice Man said.

Edge: Byzantine Infantry

And finally, for the armor category the Byzantine's steel lamellar proved more protective than the Huskarl's chainmail hauberk.

''The helmet goes to the Huskarl, the shields are even but in the end, the Byzantine's steel lamellar is just more protective.'' DAM concluded.

Edge: Byzantine Infantry

Now, our resident metalhead and computer whizz Metal Harbinger will gauge the x-factors of our warriors. Metal?

''Thanks narrator.'' The metalhead said taking a seat in front of the simulator.

''First and foremost I did training as usual for these kind of matches and I rated both warriors as even because the Saxon were brought up to be the elite of the Anglo-Saxon army while the Byzantine infantry were trained to be the best in western Eurasia. Both warriors score an 89 each.''

''For physicality we gave both warriors the edge because one, the Saxon is the slightly bigger guy but the Byzantine dawns the heavier armor. Both received extensive training to help increase their strength. 91 for both these warriors.''

''Ferocity is also considered and this one went to the Huskarl because they were known to fight bloodily and showed this at Hastings where they fought to the last man. So he gets an 89 to the Byzantine's 88.''

''Fourth is endurance and by the time the Huskarls arrived at Hastings they were very exhausted from the hike to there from Stamford bridge. The Byzantine was constantly on the move and wore heavier armor so he gets an 81 to the Huskarl's 80.''

''For loyalty we rated the Huskarl slightly higher because they stuck to the battlefield at Hastings even after their king, Harold Godwinson died taking that crossbow bolt straight through the eye. Real loyalty in the face of certain death right there . 94 to a 92 respectively.''

''Last but not least we have intimidation and both these warriors were heavily-armored forces that would keep fighting you until they ripped you to shreds are you killed them. These two warrriors get a 90 each.''

Now that we've concluded the x-factor evaluation, Metal will now run the simulator one-thousand times to determine our winner.

Who will win between the 11th century's foremost foot soldiers?

Anglo-Saxon England

(Huskarls are seen forming their shield wall formation as an advancing army of Normans make their way up the hill during Hastings.)

vs. The Byzantine empire

(Byzantine infantry are seen charging towards an army of Normans during the battle of Dyrrhachium and several of the Normans fall in the ensuing chaos.)

''In the end, only one soldier will remain standing while the other will fall in defeat, so let's see who that warrior is.'' Metal said pressing the button.

XXXXXX

On a small hill in southern England a lone Huskarl is seen surveying the land. Following their victory against the Vikings at Stamford bridge they received word of a new threat coming from an empire in western Eurasia wanting to make land fall on their kingdom.

Sent by Harold Godwinson, this Huskarl decided to venture out into the countryside to find this new threat first and he was determined to stop it and protect his kingdom. In hand he carried his shield and his longsword while his Dane axe and two boar spears were strapped to his back in case of an emergency.

Elsewhere in the countryside, emerging from the forest we see a lone Byzantine soldier exiting the woods. In hand he carried his spathion and kite shield while his mantzoukion, menaulion and riptarion were stashed in a nearby bush.

Being the first sent into Anglo-Saxon England, he was ready to scout this new land for his empire.

At the foot of the small hill, the Huskarl stops in his tracks when he spots the Byzantine soldier making his way towards him. Convinced that he was an invader he takes his two boar spears and gives out a war cry as he charges ready to hurl the spears at his foe.

Hearing the commotion, the Byzantine soldier turns to his left and spots the charging Huskarl with two spears in hand. Sensing a fight, the Byzantine instinctively raises his kite shield protectively in front of him as the Huskarl lets the spears fly.

Raising his shield higher, the Byzantine manages to block one of the spears while the other sails harmlessly past his head. Lowering his shield he spots the Huskarl charging him with his longsword in hand the he quickly pries the spear off his shield and takes his spathion.

Mounting his own charge, the two warriors then meet in the center of the field clashing their shields against the other's. The Huskarl swings his shield and manages to knock the Byzantine's shield arm sideways leaving an opening. Taking the chance the Saxon quickly thrusts his longsword forward only for the Byzantine to jump back.

With his own spathion, the Byzantine brings the sword down and manages to cut into the rim of the shield slightly. Growling in annoyance, the Saxon twists his shield causing the Byzantine to lose his grip on his sword. Smiling in satisfaction, the Huskarl then kicks the Byzantine away and quickly rushes forward to deliver a thrust only for the steel lamellar to save its wearer's life.

The Huskarl delivers a downward swing onto the Byzantine's shoulder but like the previous blow his armor absorbs the blow but the force of the hit was enough to send him on one knee which leaves him defenseless.

Before the Huskarl can deliver his next attack the Byzantine grabs two handful of dirt and tosses it at the Huskarl. Grimacing at having dirt in his eyes, the Huskarl goes to rub it off.

Seeing his opponent doing that the Byzantine makes a break for it to where he stashed his other weapons.

After a moment of rubbing his face the Huskarl manages to clear it of dirt and looking up, he spots the Byzantine heading towards the brush where he stashed his remaining weapons. Not wanting his foe to escape, the Huskarl gives chase.

Upon reaching the brush, the Byzantine sets his shield down and reaches for his riptarion and turns around to see the charging Huskarl. He lops the javelin at his opponent but the projectile sails over it's intended mark.

Despite that, the Byzantine soldier then scoops up his menaulion and quickly thrusts it outwards hoping to skewer the man but the Huskarl sees the spear and raises his shield to absorb the blow. However, the spearhead pierces through the shield and both warriors assume a test of strength as they wrestle for control of the situation.

Thanks to his spear's length, the Byzantine was left with more leverage and he gives another forceful thrust that causes the Huskarl to jerk back and he takes the chance to quickly maneuver his spear to the side causing the Huskarl shield arm to move aside creating an opening for attack.

Seeing the chance, the Byzantine lets his spear go and as fast as he could, scoops up his mantzoukion and rushes straight at his opponent. Hearing a cry, the Huskarl looks and spots the mantzoukion descending upon him, aimed at his skull.

Even with the menaulion stuck in his shield the Huskarl managed to intercept the mace but the force of the blow smashes through his shield and he groans in pain. An bone in his arm having fractured.

Ticked off beyond belief now, the Huskarl charges him and steadily pushes him towards a large bush. Giving one final shove, the Huskarl sends the Byzantine crashing into the foliage. Taking his longsword, the Huskarl goes to finish the fight by bringing it down onto the Byzantine's face but the Byzantine warrior swings his mantzoukion knocking the longsword from the Huskarl's grip.

He quickly swings his mantzoukion again and hits his foe in the side sending the man falling over sideways in pain. Filled with bravado, the Byzantine goes to deliver the final blow onto his grounded adversary.

Despite the pain from the blow, the Huskarl rolls away and draws his scramasax and quickly reaches upwards and shoves the blade into the Byzantine soldier's throat. Gagging and eyes widened in surprise the Byzantine drops his mace and clutches his bleeding wound while choking immensely on the weapon and falls to his knees.

With his opponent reeling in pain before him, the Huskarl knows the fight has ended. Reaching for his axe strapped to his back, he removes the Byzantine's cap and gently sets it on the ground and walks behind him.

Smirking, he raises his Dane axe high before swinging it downwards and the Byzantine can only lay there helplessly as the axe comes down onto the back of his skull nearly cleaving it in half.

A massive splash of blood sprays everywhere painting the Huskarl's hauberk red.

Using his foot for assistance he places it on the fallen soldier's shoulder and gives a mighty tug and frees his axe from the corpse causing it to fall on the ground.

He turns around only to look over his shoulder and sneers at the fallen Byzantine soldier before clutching his wounded side and walks away in silent victory.

XXXXXX

Winner: Saxon Huskarl

Saxon Huskarl: 510

Anglo-Saxon Longsword: 175

Dane Axe: 195

Boar Spear: 23

Scramasax: 117

Byzantine Infantry: 490

Spathion: 174

Menaulion: 113

Riptarion: 16

Mantzoukion: 187

X-Factors

Training: 89/Training: 89

Physicality: 91/Physicality: 91

Ferocity: 89/Ferocity: 88

Endurance: 80/Endurance: 81

Loyalty: 94/Loyalty: 92

Intimidation: 90/Intimidation: 90

Armor Failure Rate

Iron Helmet: 4% - Phrygian Cap w/Mail Coif: 10%

Chainmail Hauberk: 15% - Steel Lamellar: 2%

Wooden Shield: 9% - Kite Shield: 8%

Following the conclusion of a stressful struggle between these two fearsome 11th century soldiers. It would be the Huskarl who secures his victory with 51% compared to the Byzantine infantry's 49%. Despite having the better armor the Byzantine could not withstand the harder hitting weapons the Huskarl brought to the table such as his longsword and Dane axe scoring kills in the triple digits. However, the Byzantine proved to be a nightmare to his foe by having the superior armor and his mantzoukion which bludgeoned the Huskarl to death multiple times in the simulations proving to be his deadliest weapon.

''It was a brutal and stressful fight. The Huskarl managed to pull it off thanks to his larger size and harder hitting weapons. Armor can play a role sometimes but against certain opponents you just might end up dying.'' DAM explained.

''Wow, that was pretty awesome. I was starting to have doubts about the Huskarl winning this confrontation but he just proved to be the overall deadlier warrior. It could've gone either way.'' Zivon said.

''Darn, I was thinking way too much about the steel lamellar being too much for the Huskarl to handle but I was proven wrong. The Huskarl just had the deadlier weapons for the fight.'' Demigod added.

''Thanks to his superior weapons that allowed him to eventually break his way through that steel lamellar. Plus his armor was a bit lighter allowing for faster movement and the fact that the Byzantine didn't have a real helmet left his most important limb, his head exposed to danger like the axe. Sure his armor provided superb protection but it still weighed him down in the end.'' Rice Man concluded.

(The Huskarl is seen walking back to his king to warn him of the oncoming threat of the Byzantine empire. With him he carries the Byzantine soldier's mantzoukion and the spathion as a trophy he shall proudly bestow upon Harold as a gift.)

XXXXXX

Next time on Deadliest Warrior: Rice Man's Edition. Two of the most dangerous, fearsome, and vicious tribal warriors to ever come out of southeast Asia battle.

Dayak Headhunter: The ruthless and deadly tribesmen from the jungles of Borneo infamous for their head collections.

vs.

Filipino Moro: The savages of the Philippines whose sheer ferocity and steel weapons made them feared adversaries.

WHO..IS..DEADLIEST?!

A/N: Now I guarantee that there will be someone who will call bullshit on this match and side with the Byzantine just he had the steel lamellar as his armor which would hold against the Huskarl's weapons. While that is true, remember armor like that will inevitably hold someone down as opposed to someone wearing chainmail (butted, riveted or the hauberk). So if you are pissed that the Byzantine loss then boo-hoo go cry me a river, build a bridge and get over it and don't read if you don't like. Now, with that out of the way I hope you're looking forward to the season's continuation and I'll see you next time. By the way here are some matches I have coming in future episodes.