Reference summary · Core rule · Rules Tome 2.0.8 § 104
Wounds and dying
A Character dies when wounds reach its HP, or its actual HP or level falls to zero or less, unless a replacement applies.
How it works
Rule explanation
Check wounds whenever wounds are placed or maximum HP is reduced. A Character also dies if its actual HP or level becomes zero or less; an effective level of zero for performing an action does not cause death. An effect may replace death with banishment, in which case there are no death or kill Reacts. For a normal death, resolve eligible Death Reacts, then discard equipped Items, attached Actions, other attached card types, and finally the Character, to their owners’ piles. Removing wounds does not stop an already determined death unless the effect specifically says the Character no longer dies.
At the table
Example
A 3 HP Character with two wounds suffers one more wound, becomes dying, resolves eligible Death Reacts, and is then discarded after its equipment and attachments.
Watch for this
Common mistake
A dying Character does not generate a second death trigger if it suffers more wounds before leaving play. Discarding an unattached Character from play also counts as killing it.