So, with Sohei Monk you get to act in every surprise round. So, my question is does that you mean you can act prior to initiative even if there isn't a real surprise round? Example, the encounter starts and the PCs and BBEG both know each other is there and therefore no one is truly surprised. Does the Sohei monk get to act before everyone rolls initiative?
Well, that makes the Sohei useful but not great... Shame, I was looking into all kinds of fun things to do during the surprise round. Ideas to help?
Have a magic bag that either turns translucent or disappears as a free action. Wear it over your Sohei's head. Be surprised every time a combat starts.
@ Jaunt
My god that is hilarious! I doubt any DM would let that slide but I can see giving it a try.
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Well, that makes the Sohei useful but not great... Shame, I was looking into all kinds of fun things to do during the surprise round. Ideas to help?
Acting the surprise round is a minor defensive part of the package. The half-level bonus to initiative gives you a good leg up on acting first in any combat. Being able to wear light armour without losing anything but your AC bonus is also useful if you have a lower Wisdom (note: the only other thing you need Wis for is ki), especially at low levels before your class AC bonus starts scaling up. Weapon training is a solid static bonus to attacks and damage and makes you eligible for some fighter goodies including new stuff from the Weapon Master's Handbook. It's especially useful for polearms since you can fight - and flurry - with reach, but still threaten adjacent.
The mounted combat abilities are a bit odd without a class mount but are very handy if someone else has an animal companion for you to ride. Note that you can get weapon training with lances.