>Hail.
>
>Recently I came across a question I failed to clearify, and as
>it turned out later, I am not alone.
>
>Here it is: does DUAL WIELD skill affect number of possible
>attacks for barehand fighting with both hands free (HAND TO
>HAND)? For assassins in particular?

Yes, you will hit more with two hands free then with one hand free and using a shield. But not necessarily hit more overall then with say a sword and one bare hand.

> For masters in UNARMED DEFENSE in particular?

From the helpfile, you'll have a "slight advantage in landing
punches against less skilled foes", but I don't think this means "extra" hits, per se. You might get more mileage out of the punches you do throw though.

> Does DUAL WIELD skill affect number of
>BACKFIST attacks when both hands are free?

Well, dual wield is sort of a pre-requisite for backfist, so not really sure what you're asking. Do you get more backfists when two hands are free then when only your offhand is free? I haven't noticed any difference-- but backfist is so random in general, it'shard to tell. I'm inclined to believe backfist works only on offhand, but again, that's just my belief after hours of using it. Anyone is welcome to correct me.

>
>These questions were derived by my vain attempt to clearify
>possible offensive tactics of an assassin combat. I used
>newbie channel to ask: "If having both hands free makes me, an
>assassin, more offensive?". I did not try to acknowledge just
>what is generally better. I just need to know if I am going to
>inflict more damage having both hands free. There were no
>clear answers.

There are no clear answers. Not to such vague questions. You might find hands to be more offensive in some scenarios and less in others. Maybe be more specific what you mean...

> Help on UNARMED DEFENSE says I get some effect
>vs unskilled foes...that is too foggy. What abount DUAL
>WIELD?

The helpfile on unarmed defense: "..landing punches against less skilled foes, assuming both hands are bare." Your hands are both free (dual wielding hands), and your opponent is not a master of hand to hand. I'd interpret this to mean your punches might be slightly more difficult to parry/dodge/whatever. Or something of that nature.

>
>Sincerely yours,
>Eugene
>
>P.S. I have spent hours asking these questions on newbie
>channel. Many attempts to answer, no answers. Even an immortal
>submitted that this is a question for consideration. Hereby I
>ask you to answer only if you really got something to say.

Again, I think you are wording your questions funny-- it's tough to tell exactly what you're asking. Maybe try restating them?

But hope some of that helps-- sometimes though, it's fun to just play around with the skills on mobs and see what works for you.

Cheers.