Agitate (speech)

Agitate is a form of speech-giving made possible through the sage ability, Grassroots Movement. The character can gain the focused attention of a crowd of at least 20 people, provided they are already disgruntled or actively discussing an event. By delivering an impromptu speech, the character has a strong chance of directing the crowd to act according to their intentions.

To agitate, the character makes an intelligence or wisdom check (player's choice). Failure means the speech does not inspire the audience to act. Instead, the crowd will shout back their refusal, forcing the speaker to withdraw and relinquish control of the situation. If no others take the opportunity to address the crowd, the gathering will disperse. If guards or watchmen are present, they will recognize the character’s failure and generally refrain from dispersing the crowd. However, depending on the character's motives and the context of the speech, the agitator may still risk being arrested.

Success

If the character's check is successful, the crowd will act as desired, within the limits imposed by their original concern. A crowd that is already angry with city officials or a group of authorities can be made to smash, loot, even attack officials they can find, or damage and destroy property. However, if the concern of the crowd was a matter of starvation, then the desired goal will be to get food. If the crowd sought justice, a lynching may be possible, but not raiding the local food stores. Within reason, the DM must make a judgment based on what the crowd wants, and judge the character's proposed solution to that want within that context.

Consequences

Take note that depending on what action the character inspires, there will be consequences to the character if crimes or a revolution results. On the other hand, a crowd that is encouraged to raise a dam to stop a flooding river, or set out to fight for a cause, or begin a pilgrimage, would not represent a request that authorities would react against. In any case, the character seeking to agitate a mob should always be aware that someone is watching, and that the character's face will be recognized. It might do for the character to take steps to change their appearance before appearing publicly, or perhaps quickly escape the place and situation, or measure their intent against the anger it will cause.

Additionally, a wise character may see how to employ agitation as the appropriate speech for the appropriate moment, within the larger agenda of creating a sustained political or cultural movement.

See History