[Skill] Intimidation

[Irriari]

Article: Skill: Intimidation Author(s): Irriari Other development: I had a storytelling article in Founder Review at one point, but it still needed some work. Additional Info: I'll need some help from DS'/AS'/RS' on clarifying any specific intimidation styles to factions/groups (e.g. how does the Ebonstryfe differ from the Syliran knights?) Help desk approval thread Peer Review Thread: None yet Founder Review Thread: None yet Synopsis: This article is going to deal with clarifying what intimidation is as well as how intimidation techniques vary from region to region. Additionally, the depth and breadth of intimidation and various common intimidation techniques will be expanded upon. Ex: I plan to point out that intimidation is not always based on yelling loudly or acting menacing- many traits (such as stature, reputation, and faction affiliation) contribute to and enhance the effectiveness of intimidation. In addition, complementary skills will be discussed. (intelligence, interrogation, observation, and rhetoric) Limitations of intimidation techniques (as well as potential for failure and backfiring) for each skill level will be discussed. Outline: (Subsections denoted by a -) Lore article outline: Intimidation [Definition] Intimidation: Intimidation is intentional behavior which would cause a person to fear injury or harm. People who are proficient at the skill of Intimidation can convince another person - through violence, threat of violence, or intimation of violence - to do their bidding. This can include giving up information, handing over valuable items, leaving or entering a place, backing down from a fight, or any number of actions. (Taken from current lore stub) [Contents] 1 Overview 2 Techniques 3 Learning Intimidation 4 Intimidation Techniques by Culture/Faction 4 Progression [Overview] (Intimidation quote goes here. Considering using a quote from a priest/priestess of Rhysol/Krysus/Ssena) Intimidation is a skill that is manifested consciously or unconsciously in order to cause another person fear of injury or harm. Intimidation is often employed to assert dominance or gain control over the person who is being intimidated (sometimes labelled as a ‘mark’). After the intimidator has sufficiently cowed their mark, they can use this advantage to coerce the mark into certain behaviors. Additionally, the intimidator can use this edge to dominate conversation, silence a mark, or make the process of interrogation easier. The techniques used very by region, upbringing, and skill level. The majority of novice intimidators rely on physical stature or other biological traits (such as claws, musculature, or physical deformities). As an intimidator progresses, they learn to incorporate gestures, props, tone of voice, stance, emotional manipulation, and many other aspects to make their intimidation more effective. Intimidation does not always have to involve threats of violence or harm. In fact, signs or other props that have significant meaning to the mark can be placed in order to cause fear. (Need example) -Supplementary/Complementary Skills: Additionally, a number of other skills can be used to supplement intimidation. Investigation, observation, and intelligence aid the intimidator in discerning details about their mark, such as an old scar that may signal a burn. From there, an intimidator can incorporate fire or threats of using fire to terrify the mark. Additionally, an intimidator can use rhetoric to refine his argument to effect a more cultured mark. However, this tactic is often outclassed in favor of force or physical contact. [Techniques] The list of intimidation techniques below should serve as an example. Many other techniques can be used or created by inventive intimidators. As an intimidator advances in skill and practices the techniques that most suit them, they can weave these techniques together for increased effectivenss. Verbal Threat: This technique involves threating physical, emotional, or mental harm to a mark or something that they hold dear. The threat does not need to be followed up in order to be intimidating. Stance/Posture: This technique involves standing or holding oneself in a way that elicits fear. For example, an intimidator may stand incredibly close to a mark, towering over them to create an aura of fear. Emotional Manipulation: This technique involves using deceptive or abusive tactics to exploit the psychological vulnerabilities of the mark. (Needs to be explained). Gestures: This technique involves threatening gestures used in the direction of the mark, such as a raised fist or weapon. Physical Impact: This technique involves physically harming another person or object to elicit fear from a mark. This technique is one of the most common. [Learning Intimidation] -Learning by example/observation (most common) -Learning by practice (common, supplements learning by example) -Learning by imitation (Ex: Learning at the Institute of Higher Learning in Ravok as a complement to Interrogation classes) -Learning from books, stories (least common, offers new techniques but very little in the way of actual practice) [Intimidation Techniques by Culture/Faction] (WIP, will need help here) -These techniques can be used in addition to the techniques listed above. These are not something a PC will stumble upon by chance. It will require immersion within the culture or contact with the faction. It should be noted that while these techniques are less general, they may not be effective in all situations. As with any intimidation technique, the intimidator should study their mark/target and pick the most appropriate method for the situation and person involved. This section will note specific techniques as well as unique physical traits (e.g. zith wings) that can contribute. [Skill Progression] Novice (1-25): Competent (26-50): Expert (51-75): Master (76-100):

[Sedge]

Proposal Accepted

It's great to see you back on this! Looking forward to the complete draft.