I believe the Illithid persuasion mechanic uses Wisdom instead of Intellect, because in skillchecks, wisdom is the ability that reflects one's ability to read body language, intent, understand another's feelings etc, all relevant to being persuasive in dialogue. Whether you're intellectual or not is irrelevant to how wisdom works in D&D, and dialogue =/= combat. Being wise as we know it in human society does not reflect the word "Wisdom" that may have confusing connotations in D&D mechanics.
A really dumb person can understand your body language in D&D, because their intelligence is a different stat to wisdom. Since the tadpole is part of the host's brain and tampering with their emotions (see the person you dream of at night as an example, trying to manipulate you and welcome them into your acceptance), wisdom makes more sense. It's not a magic spell, but an enhanced ability to manipulate someone else, a social skill. (Again, caster spell modifier being irrelevant)
Last edited by The Composer; 29/07/22 05:24 AM.
