I swapped out the main third person controller code I was using for another that is built specifically for Combat. I was wary of doing this - it wasn't clear at first how to properly use this (and in many ways still is unclear!).... I lose a few things, but it adds a lot more options and opportunity including a way to do Inventory - which for the supply delivery and collection quests this should come in useful.... plus (and the main reason for the switch) I can now fight in the battle.
I am really enjoying the results thus far.... but lots yet to do to flesh out the vision... Now blocking out the rest of the quest progression is probably what I need to focus on. I've done a decent amount of refinement on the beginning portion of the game. It can be easy to get focused on just getting one part working well, but it may be better to get a start-to-end playable that works a bit janky first.