> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://help.lore-keeper.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Your First Combat Encounter

> How combat works in LOREKEEPER: initiative, actions, damage types, conditions, and what happens when you win your first fight.

## When Swords Are Drawn

Combat in LOREKEEPER is tactical, turn-based, and driven by the AI DM. It can start when you provoke a fight, stumble into an ambush, or when the story demands it. You do not need to memorize rules -- the system handles the mechanics while you focus on making decisions.

## Initiative

When combat begins, the AI DM rolls initiative for everyone involved -- your character, allies, and enemies. This determines the turn order. Higher initiative means you act sooner.

## Your Turn: What You Can Do

On your turn, you can take one of several actions:

* **Attack** -- Strike an enemy with your weapon. Damage depends on your stats and equipment.
* **Cast a spell** -- Use a spell from your spellbook. Spells can deal damage, heal allies, or apply conditions.
* **Use an item** -- Drink a potion, throw a bomb, or activate a magical artifact.
* **Flee** -- Attempt to disengage and escape the encounter.

<Tip>Be creative with your actions. Telling the AI DM "I flip the table for cover and throw my dagger" is more fun than just "I attack" -- and the AI rewards it.</Tip>

## Damage, Conditions, and HP

Attacks deal specific **damage types** (slashing, fire, necrotic, etc.), and enemies may resist or be vulnerable to certain types. **Conditions** like poisoned, stunned, or frightened affect what a character can do on their turn.

Your character has **HP (Hit Points)**. When HP drops to zero, your character falls. Healing spells, potions, or rest can restore it.

## Winning a Fight

When all enemies are defeated, the AI DM wraps up the encounter. You may earn experience, loot, or narrative progression. Some fights unlock new story paths.

<Note>LOREKEEPER uses karmic dice -- the system subtly adjusts luck to keep combat dramatic without being punishing, especially for newer players.</Note>