Game Master / Adversaries / Reaction Rolls
Reaction Rolls
When first contact is uncertain (unknown group, tense standoff, unexpected meeting), roll 2d6 and read the column for the Intellect of whoever directs the encounter (or the creature the party mainly deals with; uncoordinated groups may roll per subgroup). Skip the roll when the response is already certain.
| Intellect | 0 | 1–2 | 3 | 4–5 | 6 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Category | Brutish | Dull | Average | Clever | Genius |
| 2d6 | Brutish | Dull | Average | Clever | Genius |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | Immediate violence | Lashes out in fear or anger | Takes cover, orders them off, attacks if they hesitate | Stalls to set an ambush or call support | Creates leverage: alarms, crossfire, hostage, trap |
| 3–5 | Reckless hostility | Hostile; may retreat or surrender when hurt | Hostile but listening; bribe or authority may avert violence | Controlled hostility; demands concessions, attacks when favorable | Feigns calm while pursuing a hostile plan |
| 6–8 | Confused/wary; follows strongest cue | Wary; tempted by food, loot, or an exit | Cautious parley, weapons ready | Probes for weakness before deciding | Cold calculation; conditional offer |
| 9–11 | Curious; accepts simple trade or confident lead | Cautiously friendly; limited help for reward | Open to a bargain or sharing information | Professional cooperation; mutually useful exchange | Attempts to recruit the party |
| 12 | Friendly and trusting | Eager to help; seeks protection or purpose | Helpful; shares information, supplies, shelter | Generously cooperative on sensible terms | Cultivates an alliance and a future obligation |
Situational nudges (shift one band, never past the first or fifth): weapons drawn or an obvious threat, down 1; tribute such as food, water, aid, or valuables, up 1; clearly overwhelming force, usually up 1 (desperate or fanatical foes may go down); cornered, starving, or under strict orders, usually down 1 or skip the roll.