Using the magical/psionic transparency rules.
The case:
A psion used the read thoughts ability infront of an entire audience while on stage. He failed his check to hide the mental display. A bard on stage next to him felt the chime, can he spellcraft the power.
Under psionics unleashed displays it states:
Mental: A subtle chime rings once in the minds of creatures within 15 feet of either the manifester or the subject (at the manifester’s option). At the manifester’s option, the chime can ring continuously for the power’s duration. Some powers describe unique mental displays.
Under spellcraft it states;
Identify Spell Being Cast
Identifying a spell as it is being cast requires no action, but you must be able to clearly see the spell as it is being cast, and this incurs the same penalties as a Perception skill check due to distance, poor conditions, and other factors.
Does this mean it is impossible to spellcraft a mental display (chime) for one to know a spellhas been cast?
Can you only spellcraft spells that have a visual component?
Does this mean any spell cast using still and silent metamagics is therefore undetectable and cannot be countered, even during combat?
I do not like the fact you have to clearly see enemies. Would it not be better to have it if you cannot. Clearly percieve the spellcasting?
Can you only spellcraft spells that have a visual component?
Spellcraft: "Identifying a spell as it is being cast requires no action, but you must be able to clearly see the spell as it is being cast, and this incurs the same penalties as a Perception skill check due to distance, poor conditions, and other factors."
You only have to see the spell being cast. You do not need to see somatic, material, or focus components (if any).
A verbal-only spell (like Spark) can still be identified.