Fops & Fauntleroys

Effect: If cast at a boorish party guest or nosy aunt, they are momentarily paralyzed with a vague sense of unease, usually long enough for you to slip away or quickly down a drink to steady the nerves. Can only be used once per conversation, lest they become suspicious. Downside: Opponents may get wise to your glare after repeated use, and more discerning characters may feel an obligation to engage you even more insistently.

Effect: You deliver an utterly baffling but well-phrased sentence (“Yes, but you know, a salamander never changes its socks!”) that leaves your opponent stunned and confused for a round, buying you a few precious moments. Downside: Overuse of this skill may lead others to consider you a bit of a loose cannon or distractible eccentric, which could be socially disadvantageous.

Effect: Performing an exaggerated favor, like handing over your chair, increases your social capital temporarily, impressing those around you and increasing your charm for the scene. Downside: If done insincerely or too often, people may see through the act, and you’ll risk being labeled as an opportunistic flatterer.

Effect: This maneuver involves miraculously balancing a precarious object (teacup, gravy boat, etc.) in one hand while executing a challenging maneuver (e.g., an escape or deft conversational pivot). Useful in dodging unwelcome company, deflecting questions, or making a quick getaway from awkward situations. Downside: Roll to check; if failed, you spill something embarrassing (likely on yourself or an important person nearby) and suffer a loss in decorum.

Lift a target’s spirits with a spontaneous song, filled with silly lyrics that spark laughter and smiles.

Slip away from tight spots with a series of funny mishaps, such as tripping over a tea cart and scattering pastries.

Reroll a failed social interaction, potentially leading to amusing blunders, like proposing to a teapot. Small chance of success, very likely to cause indignity to yourself and escalate the situation.