If I were to cast Silence from a hidden position (as a 7th lvl shadow monk) would it start the surprise round? I'm trying to figure out if the following will work.
Preparation
- cast pass without trace -2 ki points
- sneak up to within 30 ft of target
- cast silence on target -2 ki points
Surprise Round
-shoot target with crossbow bolt - action
-shadowstep to target - bonus action
-stunning strike on target - extra attack
This should all happen before the target can react.
You could cast Pass Without Trace and then move stealthily, however arriving within encounter distance the DM would determine Surprise by comparing your Dexterity (Stealth) checks with the passive Wisdom (Perception) score of each creature on the opposing side. You can move and cast Silence on your first turn if you choose, or be detected before you do and see enemies potentially acting before you do.
You could cast Pass Without Trace and then move stealthily, however arriving within encounter distance the DM would determine Surprise by comparing your Dexterity (Stealth) checks with the passive Wisdom (Perception) score of each creature on the opposing side. You can move and cast Silence on your first turn if you choose, or be detected before you do and see enemies potentially acting before you do.
QFT.
Initiative is not for "when combat starts"; it is for "when timing matters".