Hypnosis (Mental) [AH]

Mesmero once dominated the whole of the X-men using this Power, which is similar to Telepathy in certain ways, but can only be resisted with raw Willpower. Psychic Defences are precious little use, as Hypnosis does not affect the mind directly. Usually, Hypnosis takes the form of a hypnotic gaze, which must be met by the victim in order to bring her under control. Banshee, however, has a hypnotic voice.

Variation: Hypnotic Voice- for three Freebie points, the mutant can have a hypnotic voice, which will potentially mesmerize anyone who can hear it. There is no language barrier; it is the modulation of the voice that is important in this case.

At any rate, once a victim is mesmerized, she will take simple commands from almost anyone (Manipulation + Expression, diff 6). Most often, however, the hypnotist's voice will be the most convincing (Manipulation + Expression, diff 4). If the mutant delivers a command that is especially repugnant to the victim, he gets a Willpower check to resist and break the trance; however, most hypnotists will be clever enough to alter the victim's perceptions so that the command seems rational and necessary. The system to take control of a victim is Charisma, Manipulation, or Appearance + Hypnosis (mutant's choice)- difficulty 6. The victim can resist using Willpower (difficulty 6).

е The mutant can induce a hypnotic state using props such as pendulums. Putting a victim into a trance takes two rounds. The victim must not be engaging in strenuous or distracting activity, or the trance will not take hold.
ее The mutant can induce a trance using props. The victim cannot be distracted, as above. Putting the mutant in a trance will take one round.
еее The mutant no longer requires props to put a victim into a trance. The victim cannot be distracted.
ееее The mutant can put a victim who is not engaging in a mentally taxing activity in a trance.
еееее The mutant can put people into trances regardless of distraction.

Sample Power Stunts:
е Induce Hallucination- the mutant can instil an irrational belief in the victim with a successful Manipulation + Expression (diff of the victim's Willpower). An example- a belief that the victim's shoe is actually a telephone.
ееее Post- Hypnotic Suggestion- the mutant can implant a suggestion in the victim's mind that will survive the termination of the trance.



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