Characters in this game can be surprised and be unable to do anything.
Some monsters use a die other than a d6.
Party (1d6) monster (1d6) result 3 to 6 3 to 6 no surprise 1 1 both surprised 2 2 both surprised 1 or 2 3 or 6 party surprised 3 to 6 1 or 2 monster surprised 1 2 party surprised 2 1 monster surprised
The length of surprise, in game segments, is the difference between the two rolls.
Example: The party rolls a 1 and the monster rolls a 6. The monster gets to attack for 5 combat segments; however, dexterity can lower that amount. And rangers, and others, roll separately for surprise.