"When you attempt to defeat a barrier that has the Skirmish or the Task trait, you may use your Diplomacy skill in place of any listed skill for the check."
Does this work on things like Pirate Hunting? (Summon and encounter a random ship, or a random monster if you are not on a ship.) The listed skill on the check is found on a summoned card. Does her ability only work on things printed directly on the barrier itself, or on any check related to the barrier in general?
No, because you aren't attempting to defeat the barrier, you are attempting to defeat the summoned ship. The barrier is defeated based on whether or not you defeat the summoned ship.
You never "attempt to defeat" pirate hunting, so Siwar's power won't help you. You need powers that help you against the type of card that Pirate Hunting summons (ships or monsters).
That is what we thought, but wanted to make sure. Thanks!