Tactics & Wave Mechanics
Area O3 Tactics: The Flock (Severe 4 Encounter)
Fighting Brother Alms (Level 5) alongside six Cultist Guards (Level 2) represents a Severe 4 encounter (160 XP). To keep combat dynamic and prevent overcrowding the grid, run the guards in two tactical waves:
- Initial Deployment (Round 1): Brother Alms stands near the altar while 3 Cultist Guards form a defensive screen directly in front of him. These initial guards use their Fanatical Interposition reaction to body-block the first melee strikes or ranged shots aimed at Alms.
- Reinforcements (Round 2): At the start of the second round, the remaining 3 Cultist Guards rush in from the southern mural passage, drawn by the commotion. They enter initiative immediately and target the party's backline with Alchemist's Fire to pressure spellcasters and ranged combatants.
- Brother Alms's Priorities: Alms opens by casting fear or darkness to disrupt the party's formation. He conserves his 3rd-rank harm spells for his Cleric Divine Font, using them to burst-heal his guards or punish clustered adventurers.
- Morale & Surrender: The cultists' resolve is entirely tied to Alms. If Brother Alms flees (upon reaching 20 HP) or is rendered unconscious/killed, all remaining guards immediately drop their weapons and surrender, overcome by grief and fear.