Engaging combat without rage

[beardhat]

You can start combat with someone without rage by hitting them with a sling

[Leafstab]

You can start combat with someone without rage by hitting them with a sling

Were you on a claim? If so the claim owner or people with permission can attack people on the claim without rage.

[MagicManICT]

Pretty sure that "stray shots" can hit anyone and start combat. Quite intentional if I recall right.

[jorb]

You can start combat with someone without rage by hitting them with a sling

Were you on a claim? If so the claim owner or people with permission can attack people on the claim without rage.

This seems like a likely explanation.