Dave, Fist of Odin
So - hit point check? Is it moot?
I drink a 2d8+5 potion, for 16 back. And remember - my plate mail absorbs the first d4 damage from any foe, so if he hits me it's - well, it's a little less, anyway.
Next, I'm PISSED. This motherfucker gonna get my metal! BR 17, 4 for 7 points damage. I think I have another round of attacks: if so (or next round), BR 20, 5 for 16 points.
That's how we roll it, Odin style!
Then, in case I get lagged, BR 15, 2 for 5 points damage (to AC 2). But depending on the HP check I might drink a potion, or give a potion, or cast some sort of spell...
Oh - and his AC just dropped by one.