Taunt

Typically used with: Persuasion.

In short: causing incompetence through teasing. Taunt is similar to Intimidate in certain regards. Instead of an imposing demeanor, a character with ranks in Taunt uses a litany of verbal jeers and jabs to upset opponents. While intimidation instills fear, taunting entices anger, which quickly leads to slip-ups.

You can use Taunt during combat to incite rage from a single opponent, imposing −2 penalties on all of his or her attack, defense, ability, and skill rolls during the encounter. Performing such an action takes 4 AP. Each time you or your allies successfully Taunt an opponent, the penalty in increased 2 (for example, if you Taunt an opponent twice, it takes −4 to its rolls). An opponent can have a maximum penalty of −8 in this manner.

Whenever you successfully Taunt an opponent in combat you have the option to draw the attention of the opponent. This means that if a target is acting violently, it will turn its attacks towards the taunting character. This is extremely useful when a comrade is surrounded by too many foes, or to distract an opponent so someone can get the drop on them.

Difficulty

Taunt is an opposed roll, so there are no set difficulties.

Opposed Rolls

Taunt is always opposed by a target's Discern using Self-Control as the key ability instead of Insight.

Time

Taunting opponents in combat takes 4 AP.

Retry

Failed Taunt checks can be retried at a cumulative −2 penalty each time.