I think the entire "RP is a requirement before the attack" and "Give your opponent 10 seconds or so" are a way to account for the facts that:
- RP on this server is text-based, and not voice based.
- We type slower than we talk.
- To "talk" in RP, we have to give up control of the ship (at least to some degree).
So, in those 10 seconds, you can squeeze in a couple of lines which you normally would've been able to do without losing control of your ship. It can also be done without breaking immersion:
Quote:<-- A couple of Lynxes approach a couple of Templars -->
GRN snub: *Your sensors pick up a scan from the Lynx*
GRN snub: *Comm channels are closed. The vessel's weapons are powering up* <-- One of the Bretonian fighters has enough time to respond -->
BAF snub: Break formation and engage. <-- Fight begins -->