3.1.4 Actions, reactions and follow-ons

In any combat turn, a character can choose to make actions, reactions and/or follow-ons during his phase, and to make reactions and/or follow-ons during other characters' phases. A character may only make an action or reaction if he/she has sufficient action points remaining that turn.

An Action is a maneuver that initiates a chain of events. Only the phasing character may make actions. For example, only the phasing character may Move (action).

A Reaction is a response to someone else's action, reaction or follow-on. Anyone involved in the combat may make reactions, provided they are appropriate. For example, Cogan attacks Urlik with his sword (action); Urlik responds by blocking with his shield (reaction).

A Follow-on is a maneuver that a character can use to follow up a previous action, reaction or follow-on. For example, Urlik successfully blocks Cogan's attack, and then stands and attacks (follow-up) with his axe.

This section describes the actions, reactions and follow-ons available in the basic combat rules.

Maneuver Action, Reaction or Follow-on Action point cost Description
Move Action (or rarely a Reaction) only 1 The phasing character advances by up to two hexes or moves backwards by one hex. A non-phasing character may react by following the phasing character.
Stand and attack Action, Reaction or Follow-on 2-4 (varies based on weapon mode) The character remains in the same hex and attacks with a melee weapon.
Advance and attack Action or Follow-on only 2-4 (varies based on weapon mode) The character advances by one hex and attacks with a melee weapon.
Speak Action, Reaction or Follow-on 1 The characters speaks a word or few words.
Block Reaction only 1 The character remains in the same hex and attempts to block an incoming attack with a weapon or shield.
Jump back dodge Reaction only 1 The character moves away from the direction of an attack to avoid it.
Side-step dodge Reaction only 1 The character moves sideways to avoid an attack.
Parry Reaction only 2 The character moves away from the direction of an attack and attempts to deflect it with a weapon or shield.
Turn Action or Reaction only 1 The character turns by 60, 120 or 180 degrees, while remaining in the same hex.
Ready weapon Action or Reaction only 3* The character draws a weapon from a sheath or belt into his/her hands.
Prepare/cast magic Action only 2 to 5 The character prepares or attempts to cast magic.
Soak Reaction or Follow-on only 1 The character attempts to reduce the damage done by an attack that has hit him/her.

* May be reduced through the use of Sleight of Hand (fast draw) skill.