Predators Bearing

From Edge of Darkness Wiki

Something about your character reminds people and animals of the predators that hunt them. A human feels a base fear in his reptilian brain that catches his breath or causes hairs to stand up on the back of his head. Animals stand stock still, watching the character out of the corner of an eye, ready to run should she step close. This Merit adds +1 die to any Social roll that would benefit from such unease. Intimidation benefits most directly from this Merit, but some forms of Expression (reciting black, actually frightening poetry or appearing to be a “dangerous” rock star), Persuasion (fear can make for an exciting seduction) and Socialize (the cool kid who gathers the crowd can be disturbingly scary at times) are all viable Skills. The bonus from Predator’s Bearing can apply to animals, if appropriate.

Skinchangers who emulate carnivorous or impressive animals commonly take this Merit.

Drawback

This isn’t something that a character can just turn on or off. Many other Social rolls suffer a penalty because of the character’s nerve-wracking habits. Any Social action that such a demeanor would make more difficult suffers a –1 penalty. The character’s efforts to sing a sweet song or act the waif must first overcome her natural “hungry” tendencies. People are often reluctant to deal with someone who frightens them (not everybody’s turned on by the thrill of dangerous partners). And creepy people receive more scrutiny, which they can ill afford when trying to lie.

Special

Creatures that are already top predators in their regions (such as lions on the savannah) are unafraid of other predators. Character with this Merit cannot apply it against such creatures. This includes supernaturally-enhanced predators, such as vampires or werewolves.

Note

This merit can also be found on page 97 of the book Changing Breeds

v · d · e Characteristics Attributes Intelligence • Wits • Resolve • Strength • Dexterity • Stamina • Presence • Manipulation • Composure Traits Defense • Health • Initiative • Size • Speed • Willpower Skills Academics • Computer • Crafts • Investigation • Medicine • Occult • Politics • Science • Athletics • Brawl • Drive • Firearms • Larceny • Stealth • Survival • Weaponry • Animal Ken • Empathy • Expression • Intimidation • Persuasion • Socialize • Streetwise • Subterfuge References Help/Start • Main Page • User Guide • Rules • Mini Character Sheets • Staff • Bestiary • Glossary