Top 5 Dirty Tricks for Dodging Fights Without Getting Caught

Sep 29

Mike’s Personal Experience
We were once cornered by a group of mercenaries demanding our heads. Instead of fighting, I feigned drunkenness, spilling my ale and stumbling into their leader while my wizard friend whispered a suggestion spell that convinced him we were old acquaintances. We walked away without drawing a blade. Dodging fights doesn’t have to be cowardly — it can be devious fun.

Here are five dirty tricks to slip past danger.

1. Feign Weakness

Pretend you’re injured or unarmed. Enemies may let you go or lower their guard. Then slip away or strike when it counts.

2. Mislead With Magic

Spells like Suggestion, Charm Person, or PF2e’s Illusory Disguise can convince guards that you belong. See The Count of Thorneblight: A Smile Sharper Than Steel for inspiration on charming your way past threats.

3. Use Bribes and Gifts

Gold talks. A small bribe or a valuable trinket like the Coin of the Lost Patron can turn foes into friends.

4. Play One Foe Against Another

Spread a rumor that your pursuers insulted another faction. Watch as your enemies fight each other instead.

5. Disappear in Plain Sight

Blend into a crowd or disguise yourself as a commoner. Use Minor Illusion to change your voice.

Don’t Waste Another Turn, Lad

Ready to be crafty? Learn more deceptions in our Tavern Toolshed or Player Tip sections. And if you’ve got a dirty trick we haven’t covered, share it via Contact. Maybe we’ll write about it.