Code:
[Spells help] deafness
Syntax: cast deafness <victim>
This spell renders the target character deaf. Thus, they cannot hear
speech. So thorough is the effect, that the victim cannot even hear
yelling. It's impossible to receive an order while deaf. It also
reduces the chance to recite scrolls, cast most spells, give orders,
persuade others and severely hampers the ability to sing. While
deafness can be used as a protection of sorts from bard songs, it
only partially protects against the sonic wave of a power chord.
See also: 'cure deafness' chord
Deafness also reduces the chance to cast spells successfully, probably under the reasoning that you have a chance to mispronounce a syllable if you can't hear yourself talk. You might think the same would apply to taunt, but taunting isn't necessarily a word.