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Hello. Sadly, I can't find an answer in the books or in previous threads, could you help me?

Some special abilites for adversaries begin: "Reduce the creature's Hate point score by one…" but don't specify the moment when this has to be done. So, as a LM, could I use those special abilities whenever I want (even during player's turn or volleys)? Or do I have to wait creature's turn to act?

At the other hand, is there a restriction on how many times can I trigger a special ability (aside from Hate points)? For example, can I trigger Strike Fear three times in a row (spending 3 Hate points at the same time), to force players to roll three Fear tests?*

(*) That could be totally broken if I have more than one creature of the same kind with Commanding Voice, because they could replenish their Hate points infinitely.

Thanks!

fbnaulin wrote:Hello. Sadly, I can't find an answer in the books or in previous threads, could you help me?

Some special abilites for adversaries begin: "Reduce the creature's Hate point score by one…" but don't specify the moment when this has to be done. So, as a LM, could I use those special abilities whenever I want (even during player's turn or volleys)? Or do I have to wait creature's turn to act?

Without some specific examples I'd apply the usual guideline that you spend the point of Hate when the creature uses the special ability. I think it's fairly obvious most of the time when such an ability gets used, but if you have any specific examples that you're musing over then please suggest them...

fbnaulin wrote:At the other hand, is there a restriction on how many times can I trigger a special ability (aside from Hate points)? For example, can I trigger Strike Fear three times in a row (spending 3 Hate points at the same time), to force players to roll three Fear tests?

I'm not sure using Strike Fear three times in a row (without presumably allowing any action in between) is in the spirit of the rules. I class usage of such an ability as an action for the adversary in the same way that Intimidate Foe is an action for a PC.

As far as I'm aware though, Special Abilities that compliment each other and work together can be used sequentially so multiple Hate could be spent by an adversary in one attack - for example, spending 1 point of Hate to use Horrible Strength on a successful primary attack, then spending a further point to activate Savage Assault for a second attack, and then if that second attack was successful then a final point could be used to activate Horrible Strength again.

Rich H wrote:Without some specific examples I'd apply the usual guideline that you spend the point of Hate when the creature uses the special ability. I think it's fairly obvious most of the time when such an ability gets used, but if you have any specific examples that you're musing over then please suggest them...

Sorry, I didn't explain myself clearly. I didn't mean when Hate points are supposed to be used, but in wich moment (of the combat) those special abilities (that don't express an specific timing) may be used.

I had exactly this question myself. Seems like it's the same sort of confusion that people have regarding combat tasks. (E.g., which ones replace your attack for the turn.)

Maybe something they'll address in the hardcover.

fbnaulin wrote:Sorry, I didn't explain myself clearly. I didn't mean when Hate points are supposed to be used, but in wich moment (of the combat) those special abilities (that don't express an specific timing) may be used.

Okay, I think I understand. Let's be explicit and take each Special Ability listed in the LM Book (where Hate is spent).

Here's how I use them:

Bewilder - just before the creature's attack, supplementary to any attack on the targeted character.

Commanding Voice - action for creature, so replaces its attack.

Dreadful Spells - action for creature, so replaces its attack.

Great Leap - just before the creature's attack.

Hideous Toughness - used when a character successfully attacks and damages the said creature.

Horrible Strength - used to supplement a successful attack made by said creature.

No Quarter - used after a character is knocked out by the said creature's attack.

Savage Assault - used after creature successfully attacks with its main attack.

Snake-like Speed - used when a character has rolled to attack the creature and successfully hits.

Strike Fear - action for creature, so replaces its attack.

YMMV and all the usual caveats.

Rich H, thanks for your elaboration.

So, I asume that special abilities are used as actions when is creature's turn, sometimes replacing its chance to attack (expect for those pasive in nature, as Craven).

That's what common sense tell me, and as I have used it in the past, but wanted to confirm it.