⚔️ Initiative

Combat is handled in rounds, with each character taking a turn in sequence.
Turn order is determined at the start of combat using an Initiative Check — a special kind of Aspect Check.

🎲 Rolling for Initiative

At the beginning of combat, each participant rolls an Aspect Check for Initiative using one of the following:

Reflex 🧠 (default) — alert, reactive characters
Discipline 📘 — calm, tactical thinkers
Agility 💪 — fast, aggressive characters

Most characters use Reflex, unless a Domain Feature or GM ruling allows a different choice.

The GM then ranks results from highest to lowest total to determine the order of turns.

⚖️ Breaking Ties

If two or more characters roll the same total, use one of these methods:

🔢 The character with the higher raw Aspect value goes first
🧩 Some Domain Features provide tie-breaking rules
🤝 Players may choose collaboratively or
🎲 Simply roll again to break the tie
🧙 The GM may decide based on story or tactics

🌀 Initiative vs. Action Load

Initiative only determines turn order.

Your ability to act is still limited by:

Your 🌀 Action Load
Your current Aspect values

Tip: Going first can give momentum — but a well-timed turn later in the round may allow better reactions and setups.

⏸️ Holding Actions

You may delay your turn and act later in the same round.

Your new position becomes your default initiative slot for future rounds (unless the GM rules otherwise)
Useful for waiting on allies or reacting to enemy moves

📝 Example Use: You delay until your ally casts a buff spell, then act with full strength on your new turn.

🎭 Variant Rule: Spotlight System

For more narrative or collaborative pacing, you may use the Spotlight System:

The GM or group chooses who goes first
That player chooses who acts next
Repeat until all participants have acted

🎬 This system emphasizes cinematic storytelling, teamwork, and shared spotlight time.
It's ideal for groups who prefer flexibility over rigid tactical structure.