(09-21-2015, 09:26 AM)Vyce Wrote: It can easily be handled in past tense.
Kage went to the store in the attempt to buy an apple.
Stepping in Kage's way to the store, Marshall attempted to grab his arm while pointing a knife at the Lalafell.
That's not a possible situation. If Kage went to the store then in present tense he is either there or has long since left. The act of going is in the past.
If Kage is on his way to the store, Marshall can attempt to grab his arm.
The most Marshall can do with the past tense is assault him in the store or try to steal the apple he already bought. Or idk just try to stab him for no reason, as long as it is not while Kage is on the way to the store...because he already went.
As Bryn and I both pointed out, there are ways to word this in future tense or past tense that fully address what you're saying.