The Art of Retreat: Why Running Away Is Sometimes the Most Lethal Move

Sep 8

Mike’s Personal Experience
Back in my younger days, I fought a hydra with an overconfident party. We chopped off heads but forgot to cauterize the necks. The hydra grew stronger and we were on the brink of death. Only by retreating through a narrow cave and forcing it to squeeze did we win — one head at a time. Had we held our ground, we’d have been hydra chow. Knowing when to run saved us.

Here’s why a graceful exit can be deadlier than a stubborn stand.

1. Live to Fight Another Day

No treasure is worth your life. Disengaging or retreating buys you time to heal, regroup, and plan. It’s better to leave and return prepared than to die in a blaze of ego.

2. Kite Your Foes

Lead a slower monster on a chase through a trap‑filled area. By the time it reaches you, it might have triggered enough hazards to even the odds. Consider exploring the Thorneblight Village for inspiration on trap‑laden retreats.

3. Use Terrain to Your Advantage

Retreat to high ground, narrow hallways, or defensible rooms. Make the enemy come to you on your terms.

4. Prepare a Rear Guard

Have someone ready to block or slow the enemy. A well‑timed shove, a dropped caltrop bag, or a cast of Wall of Stone can turn a retreat into a massacre.

5. Know When to Sacrifice

Sometimes leaving behind gear or a summoned creature can save lives. Better to lose a potion than a pal.

Before You Swing Again…

It takes wisdom to step back. Build that wisdom by studying our GM Wisdom section, and peek at Briarbone Manor: Beauty, Rot, and Locked Wings for examples of retreats gone wrong. And as always, share your tales or ask for advice through the Contact page.