Draw Steel skill
Dance
Dance is a skill in Draw Steel: Performing, reading, and improvising dance forms from court steps to war dances.
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Key facts
- Characteristic
- Agility
Overview
Dance covers formal court dances, folk reels, ritual and war dances, and the physical storytelling of a stage troupe. It is an Agility skill because footwork, timing, and body control decide whether the performance lands. It comes up at balls, festivals, and ceremonies where knowing the steps opens doors: getting close to a noble target, reading a coded ritual, blending into a crowd, or holding a room's attention while an ally slips away.
How it works
Characteristic: Agility. Skill group: Agility skills. Test: 2d10 + Agility; 11 or lower is tier 1, 12 to 16 tier 2, 17 or higher tier 3. Training grants a benefit and unlocks attempts untrained heroes cannot make. How it is used: Tier 3 impresses and can earn favor or an invitation. Tier 2 passes as competent and unremarkable. Tier 1 draws the wrong attention or offends the host. Edges and banes: Knowing the local form, good music, or a willing partner grants an edge (+2). An unfamiliar style, injury, or dancing in armor imposes a bane (-2).
Tips and playstyle
Best for: Social infiltrators and performers who work crowds rather than stages. Character concepts: Entertainer career troupe dancer, noble raised on court balls, elf ritual dancer. Synergies: Music and Perform for a full show, Culture for knowing what a dance means, Flirt or Gather Rumors once you have a partner's attention.
Frequently asked questions
Is Dance useful outside a party scene?
Yes. Directors often accept it for balance and body control, such as crossing a pitching deck or timing a step through swinging blades.
How does Dance differ from Perform?
Perform is Presence and covers acting and oratory. Dance is the physical craft; a skilled dancer with low Presence still impresses.