Spy Vs Spy

Espionage, spying, all fun and games and can be done by all castes / roles ... an RP within an RP.

I have fun with it and thought I'd share some pointers.

Enjoy and do add on some tips which you may already be using and pointers aswell.

Cheers,

Ace.

Elicitation

What is it?

•   A process of collecting information through conversation, not direct questions.

Purpose?

•   To obtain information from someone who has it, who may or may not acknowledge having it

The philosophy of understanding human nature:

•   Most people enjoy talking about themselves, their work, their ‘expertise’
•   It is hard to keep secrets AND show expertise
•   An unbelieving attitude often reaps “enlightenment”
•   Fulfilling a desire or need for recognition
•   A natural tendency to challenge / correct others / prove others wrong
•   A natural tendency to gossip / discuss things that are not their direct concern

Simple techniques:

•   Provocation

Provoking or challenging the target into a certain line of questioning.

" From what I've heard, tarns man from xx can't fly to save their lives! "

•   Quid Pro Quo

I’ll show you mine if you show me yours. ( Of course... the "mine" doesn't have to be true )

" I'm concerned about safety in this holding, at some places, they have alarms by the taverns
which is struck to awaken the men... is there something similar here? "

•   Naivete

Usually works when the girls do it with the big puppy dog eyes.

" I didn't realize traps are used to catch raiders ... are there many around here? "

•   Disbelief

Expressing disbelief about a topic puts the target on the defensive and makes them want to prove you otherwise (with detail!)

" Ah, they say that kurri can be found around these parts and I should be careful.. but.. I think they are all full of bosk dung. Your people, are really good story tellers. " ( Similar to provocation )

•   Criticism

Pushing critical buttons results in target trying to validate and provide supporting details.

" I can't believe you don't have any other defense other than that wall over there...no wonder
your holding is so empty, its as safe as an open gate! "

•   Simple Flattery

Inflating ego. People like to talk about themselves.

" I have heard songs song about your army and the men you lead. Are they still strong in number? "

•   Exploit Instinct to Complain

Disgruntled targets are usually more keen to air grievances in detail.

" Your leaders don't seem around much ... I'm sure its the men who seem to defend more, even
if it is without the leaders..."

•   Purposely Erroneous Statements

Making errors on purpose exploits people’s natural tendency to teach.

" Did I miss the ceremony? I was told the shifting of the homestone was to be done today, and I
travelled far to catch a glimpse.... its the big red one right? "