Detect ongoing attempts to influence, manipulate, or wear down resistance through subtle social or diplomatic pressure.
Roll: d100 + Influence Detection skill vs. DR 100
Often used as an opposing roll against the application of the influence from skills like Diplomatic Pressure, Glibness, or Bluff and a lot of spells like charm person
Success: You recognize the manipulation attempt and can choose your actions accordingly, remaining in control of the situation.
Failure: The opponent becomes aware that you are suspicious of their motives, potentially escalating their tactics or shifting their approach.
–20 DR — You are already suspicious or experienced with such tactics
–20 DR — The manipulator is familiar or predictable
+10 DR — You are emotionally compromised or distracted
+15 DR — Target has prepared over time
+25 DR — The social setting is chaotic or stressful
In a talk with the local magistrate, you have a feeling that something is off and tells the GM that you want to use Influence Detection. You are suspicious giving you a -20 bonus to the DR and you just have to do a skill check of DR 80.
Influence Detection allows you to recognize and resist manipulation as it unfolds—whether through emotional suggestion, psychological framing, or subtle coercion. It is especially effective against tactics that apply pressure over time, such as veiled threats, guilt-tripping, or appeals to loyalty. This includes situations where a target’s family, comrades, or values are being used to influence their decisions.
Unlike direct truth-checking skills like Detect Lie, Influence Detection focuses on the build-up of intent and the method behind social pressure, rather than single statements. It is essential in drawn-out diplomatic negotiations, political intrigues, and battlefield scenarios where morale or personal ties may be exploited.
Sequence with Read the Room or spells like truth seing for example.
Subterfuge — Delivers manipulation without revealing the source
Bluff — Masks intent, making detection harder