Casting detectable when no V,S,M components?

[Artoomis]

There was a thread on this not more than 2 weeks ago. Basically someone pointed out a FAQ reference that would indicate spells with no components act as SLA, and cannot be counterspelled.

First, I'd like to see that FAQ entry, as I cannot find it.

Second, this thread is not about counterspelling. It's about whether or not you can even detect a spell is being done. The fact that you might be able to counterspell does not necessarily imply that you can tell a spell is being cast (this would not be the first time you are allowed to do something only to find out you do not have enough information to act). Besides that, a spell-like ability cannot be counterspelled anyway and the main thrust of this discussion is really how to counter a spell-like ability - that is, can you ready an action to interrupt a spell-like ability.

 

[Caliban]

It does state that Spell-like abilities can be disrupted the way spells can. Presumably, that refers to taking damage when they activate the ability.

Usually this would be from the AoO it provokes if the ability is not activated defensively.

Since it provokes an AoO, that would indicate that there is some detectable lapse in their defense that occurs when they do so.

So you should be able to ready an action to attack when you detect that lapse in concentration (or however you want to describe it) that occurs when they would provoke the AoO. You can't guarantee that it's from activating a spell-like ability, it could be any non-physical action that would cause them provoke an AoO.

Another option is the Arcane Sight spell, it lets you detect a persons magical aura, including any spells on them or spellcasting ability they have. I don't think it would be unreasonable for it to allow you to spellcraft a spell-like ability, as you can see the magic being formed in their aura. It's not explicit in the spell description, but it seems to fall within the abilities granted by the spell.

 

[Artoomis]

...So you should be able to ready an action to attack when you detect that lapse in concentration (or however you want to describe it) that occurs when they would provoke the AoO. You can't guarantee that it's from activating a spell-like ability, it could be any non-physical action that would cause them provoke an AoO...

That's my view, too, and a nice way to state it to my DM, I think.