Chapter 1 - Non-weapon Proficiencies
Diplomacy Non-weapon Proficiency
This is the grand art of high diplomacy between states or organizations. A character skilled in diplomacy knows the correct procedures and unwritten rules of negotiations between states or large organizations. He is capable of discerning the true intent of the various declarations, statements, and gifts or exchanges that make up a diplomatic encounter, and he is able to take his own wishes and couch them in proper diplomatic terms.
Normally, the character need only make proficiency checks if the negotiations are particularly delicate or difficult. However, if there is a specific goal or compromise the character is working towards, he may attempt a check to see if he can win the other side over to his point. Naturally, the DM can apply a modifier of –8 to +8 depending on what the diplomat's offer means for the parties involved. Requesting the surrender of a vastly superior enemy is next to impossible, unless the character can convince them that they stand to gain something of great value by giving up. In any event, the DM shouldn't use this ability as a substitute for good role playing by the players.
An individual who knows the art of diplomacy has a unique way with people that draws them to his person almost irresistibly. He has a flair for words, an extensive vocabulary, and is articulate and practiced in the arts of subtle and overt coercion. Any character with this ability who makes a successful check against his charisma score, and has at least one round of uninterrupted conversation with any creature that can understand him, adds + 5 to his reaction adjustment. For every additional round the character manages to speak, an additional + 1 is added, to a maximum bonus of + 15 (including the original + 5).
Furthermore, the loyalty base of any associates of the individual is adjusted by a +2 bonus for every slot devoted to this proficiency. No ability check is necessary to receive this bonus.
