Sure, I'll lend an oldie but a goodie: Your dexterity is important for fleeing and probably parrying/avoiding being parried. Mind that it drops to half its value if you are overloaded with weight, so raise your strength and travel light when possible. The same applies if you wear yourself out, so fight while rested!
I'd say invite a Malopath along!!! If you happen to get in a sitution with a tougher adversary, they can simply drain all of their energy and that'll open them up to your blade. Oh, and wear some very good armor if you want to last long. (100+ is advised!)