Difference between revisions of "Savage Asmythe"

From Asmythe
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* Starting Power Points: 10
* Starting Power Points: 10
* Signature Power: Shape Wood, see below.  
* Signature Power: Shape Wood, see below.  
* Ceremonies Only: Druids can not use powers normally but can perform rituals without material cost. Rituals are described on page 112 of the SWADE Fantasy Companion.
* Imbuing Only: Druids can not use powers normally but can imbue objects with power. All druids have the Imbuing edge.  
* Nature Magic: Druids suffer -2 on activation rolls while wearing or using any metal armor, weapons, or tools.
* Nature Magic: Druids suffer -2 on activation rolls while wearing or using any metal armor, weapons, or tools.


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* Starting Power Points: 10
* Starting Power Points: 10
* Starting Skill: Sorcery, d4 (free with the edge)
* Starting Skill: Sorcery, d4 (free with the edge)
* Sorcerers have a phrase or action they use to activate their power but in dire need they can activate their power while bound and gagged.
* Sorcerers have a phrase or action they must use to activate their power.
* Sorcery powers always target the sorcerer or have an effect emanating from the sorcerer. Power range is always "self" or "touch", decided when the power is chosen.
* Sorcery powers always target the sorcerer or have an effect emanating from the sorcerer. Power range is always "self" or "touch", decided when the power is chosen.
* A sorcerer's power always has the same trappings but can be modified (pg 152).
* A sorcerer's power always has the same trappings but can be modified (pg 152).
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'''Wizardry'''
'''Wizardry'''
This is an arcane supernatural background common to humans. Wizardry is the ability to use ilthura science to cleanse and attune crystals to a specific element, set them in a staff, and then channel elemental energy through those crystals. A crystal can be made from any pure metal or gem at least an inch in the smallest dimension; a crystal can only be attuned to one element.  
This is an arcane supernatural background common to humans. Wizardry is the ability to harness the power of elementals. Wizards learn use ilthura science to cleanse and attune crystals to a specific element, set them in a staff, and then channel elemental energy through those crystals. This process is complex and dangerous so most wizards only learn how to harness a single element. The crystal can be made from any pure metal or gem at least an inch in the smallest dimension; each crystal can only be attuned to one element.  
* Starting Powers: 2
* Starting Powers: 2
* Starting Power Points: 15
* Starting Power Points: 15
* Wizard Staff: Wizards must hold their wizard staff, set with an appropriate crystal, to use their powers. Creating a crystal and setting it in a staff requires one day in a wizard lab.
* Wizard Staff: Wizards must hold their wizard staff, set with a crystal attuned to the appropriate element, to use their powers. Attuning a crystal and setting it in a staff requires one day in a wizard lab.
* Elemental Specialty: Choose one primary element, all powers must have a trapping of that element. This can be enhanced with edges.
* Elemental Specialty: Choose one primary element, all powers must have a trapping of that element. This can be enhanced with edges.
* Signature Power: Elemental Manipulation, but only for the wizard's elemental specialty or those they gained access to through edges.
* Signature Power: Elemental Manipulation, but only for elements the wizard has learned to master.
* Dynamic Backlash: Wizardry is far more dangerous and unpredictable than other kind of magic. When a wizard suffers backlash use the Dynamic Backlash table on page 138.
* Dynamic Backlash: Wizardry is far more dangerous and unpredictable than other kind of magic. When a wizard suffers backlash use the Dynamic Backlash table on page 138.


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===Power Modifiers===
===Power Modifiers===
All those listed in the core book, page 152, in addition to those below. Power modifiers, if any, are selected when a power is cast.
All those listed in the core book, page 152, in addition to those below. Power modifiers, if any, are selected when a power is cast.
Wizards who have learned to master multiple elements can modify the trappings of a known power to any element they have mastered when activating the power. Powers used this way cost +1 power point to activate. For example, a fire wizard with Elemental Adept can modify their Fire Bolt spell to be Lightning Bolt by spending an additional power point. (The trappings/description of lightning bolt will always be the same and should be decided in advance, just like other power trappings.)


===Supernatural Edges===
===Supernatural Edges===
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* Artificer (V, Enchanting) - Enables the wizard or diva to create semi-permanent magical objects. These major magical devices are very powerful and difficult to create, see [[Enchanting]] for details.
* Artificer (V, Enchanting) - Enables the wizard or diva to create semi-permanent magical objects. These major magical devices are very powerful and difficult to create, see [[Enchanting]] for details.
* Channeling (S) - Recover 1 power point if you get a raise on a supernatural skill test.
* Channeling (S) - Recover 1 power point if you get a raise on a supernatural skill test.
* Desecrate (S, primal) - Drain the life from all plants in a 3ft radius around you to recover 5 power points. This is a narrative action.
* Drain Life (S, primal) - Drain the life from plants in a 3ft radius around you to recover 5 power points. This is a narrative action and can increase power points above pool maximum.
* Drain Life (H, primal) - Touch a dying creature and drain its life to recover 10 power points. This is a narrative action and can not cause any wounds. This can increase power points above pool maximum.
* Desecrate (H, primal) - Touch a dying creature and drain its life to recover 10 power points. This is a narrative action and can not cause any wounds. This can increase power points above pool maximum.
* Earworm (V, primal) - Your diva's music is so memorable that it persists after the song has ended. Use listed casting time and duration for powers.
* Elemental Adept (N, arcane) - A wizard learns to master minor elements, they can modify powers to use either element adjacent to their primary element(s).
* Elemental Adept (N, arcane) - A wizard learns to create powers that use the power of an element adjacent to their primary element(s).
* Elemental Master (S, Elemental Adept) - By mastering another primary element or an outer element the wizard may create powers from that element. This can be taken multiple times.
* Elemental Master (S, Elemental Adept) - By mastering another primary element or an outer element the wizard may create powers from that element. This can be taken multiple times.
* Enchanting (S, Imbuing) - Enables the wizard or diva to create magical devices with multiple uses: wands, clothing, jewelry, etc. See [[Enchanting]] for details.
* Enchanting (S, Imbuing) - Enables the wizard or diva to create magical devices with multiple uses: wands, clothing, jewelry, etc. See [[Enchanting]] for details.
* Familiar (N, Druid) - Druids may form a mutual bond with a wild animal, turning it into a companion. (Fantasy Add-on: Companions and Familiars)
* Familiar (N, primal) - Primal magicians form a mutual bond with a wild animal, turning it into a companion. (Fantasy Add-on: Companions and Familiars)
* Great Power (V, arcane) - Spend a benny to gain 20 power points for a single spell, cast at -2. If the power critically fails then permanently lose a die in one attribute of your choice.
* Great Power (V, arcane) - Spend a benny to gain 20 power points that must be used on the next power, activated at -2. Lose a point of fatigue after activation. If the power critically fails then permanently lose a die in one attribute of your choice.  
* Imbuing (N) - Enables the wizard or diva to imbue single-use items with a power anybody can use. These are potions, scrolls, magic arrows, etc. Imbuing is described in Wizards and Mystics on page 14, see [[Enchanting]] for details.
* Imbuing (N) - Enables the wizard or diva to imbue single-use items with a power anybody can use. These are potions, scrolls, magic arrows, etc. Imbuing is described in Wizards and Mystics on page 14, see [[Enchanting]] for details.
* Instrument (N, diva) - A diva who uses an instrument in addition to verbal performances receives a +1 on spellcasting checks.
* Instrument (N, diva) - A diva who uses an instrument in addition to verbal performances receives a +1 on activation rolls.
* Mercy (N, diva) - A diva may spend one power point and use their music to encourage a character within Spirit range. This will remove distracted, vulnerable, or shaken status.
* Mercy (N, diva) - A diva may spend one power point and use their music to encourage a character within Spirit range. This will remove distracted, vulnerable, or shaken status.
* Natural Power (S, sorcery) - A sorcerer has learned to activate their power while bound and silenced, with a -1 to the skill test.
* Natural Power (S, sorcery) - A sorcerer has learned to activate their power without the usual words or gestures.
* New Powers (N) - Learn two new powers.
* New Powers (N) - Learn two new powers.
* Prestige (S) - Learn a new power which is a combination of two powers that can only be used together as a single power. Use the higher duration, casting time, range, etc. of each individual power.
* Prestige (S) - Learn a new power which is a combination of two powers that can only be used together as a single power. Use the higher duration, casting time, range, etc. of each individual power.
* Power Surge (N) - Recover 10 power points when dealt a joker.
* Power Surge (N) - Recover 10 power points when dealt a joker, up to pool maximum.
* Rapid Recharge (S) - Meditate to recover 10 power points per hour.
* Rapid Recharge (S) - Meditate to recover 10 power points per hour.
* Soul Drain (S) - Sacrifice a level of fatigue to recover 5 power points.
* Soul Drain (S) - Sacrifice a level of fatigue to recover 5 power points.
* Power Points (N) - Gain 5 additional power points, increasing your maximum.
* Power Points (N) - Gain 5 additional power points, increasing your pool maximum.


==Character Archetypes ==
==Character Archetypes ==

Revision as of 15:54, 11 April 2023

Savage Worlds is a system from Pinnacle Entertainment. It is ideal for a lore heavy, narrative friendly world like Asmythe.

Any references to page numbers refer to the Savage Worlds Adventure Edition core book unless otherwise noted.

Characters

Savage Worlds character creation is designed to support archetypes, which are idealized character styles popularized by books, movies, and other kinds of fiction. For example, a sylvan druid with animal companions, a human paladin fighting for great good, a delver engineer, a mysterious wizard, a tough barbarian, and many many more.

Decide what kind of character you want to play and the information below should help you create that character. At the bottom of this page is a list of sample archetypes and character builds.

Recommended Character Creation Process


  1. First get a piece of scratch paper and use this to make notes during this process.
  2. Decide on a character concept and archetype. What kind of character do you want to play?
  3. Choose a race for your character that fits your concept.
  4. What is your character background; how do they function in society?
    • What attachments or obligations do you have to family, guild, or lord?
    • What ideals does your character have that helps them decide right from wrong?
    • Character flaws are quirks and shortcoming that give your character depth and personality.
  5. Review the list of skills and choose a 4-8 that are important to your character concept. Looking at the linked attribute for these skills, which attributes look like they are the most important?
  6. Allocate attribute points according to your character concept and skills from above. You
  7. Choose skills and allocate points. You should have 5-10 skills with at least a d6 in your most important skills. Note that skills may not be higher than the linked attribute.
  8. Make your character interesting by selecting 4 points in hinderances. Use these points to gain edges and/or improve attributes. If your character uses magic you must gain the appropriate supernatural background edge, see #Supernatural Backgrounds below.
  9. All characters begin with basic adventuring gear (see below). If you want any additional gear now is the time to talk to your GM about it.
  10. Copy everything to your character sheet.

Ancestries

These are the most common species ancestries in Asmythe. Each individual is different but there are some cultural similarities that are common. These are listed as suggested hinderances and are considered quirks: "minor but persistent behavior that often annoys others."

In the third age all races are considered outsiders to each other and subtract 2 from persuasion roles when dealing with other species.

Humans

Humans are the most common player race and form the baseline for used for other races. They are more sociable and adaptable than other races.

  • Adaptable: Begin with a free novice edge of your choice.

Suggested Hinderances

  • Selfish (Minor) - Humans think of themselves first and most and often make decisions without regard to how it will affect others.
  • Curious (Minor) - Humans like to learn and try new things, even when doing so is dangerous.
  • Industrious (Minor) - Humans like to build things and solve problems head-on. Why go around a mountain when you can build a tunnel?

Sylvani

Sylvani are smaller than humans and spend their lives in natural surroundings. They are nomadic, stealthy, and fierce. Sylvani have a natural tendency toward primal magic.

  • Attribute Increase: Spirit begins at d6.
  • Sleep Reduction: Sylvani require only 4 hours of sleep per day.
  • All Thumbs: Sylvani are creatures of nature; -2 to all tests to use or understand mechanical or elemental devices.

Suggested Hinderances

  • Natural (Minor) - Sylvani do no use any metal or stone tools and find such things repugnant.
  • Jaded (Minor) - Death is part of life and Sylvani don't seem to care when things die, as long as the cycle is healthy.
  • Artistic (Minor) - Everything a Sylvani does is carefully crafted to be beautiful in form and function.


Delvers

Delvers are short and stout and spend most of their lives in large mountain strongholds. They have access to alchemy magic.

  • Attribute Increase: Vigor begins at d6
  • Low Light Vision: Ignore penalties for dim or dark surroundings, but not for total darkness.
  • Reduced Pace: Pace is -1 and running is reduced by one die.

Suggested Hinderances

  • Loyal (Minor) - Delvers always side with Delvers and in any decision will make the choice most likely to benefit Delvers.
  • Patient (Minor) - There is no reason to hurry or take shortcuts, the destination will come eventually and with enough effort.
  • Goldlust (Minor) - Delvers love shiny things and will go to great effort to collect and display them.

Goblin

The goblin species consists of three sub-races: goblins, orcs, and hobgoblins.

  • Goblins are laborers and crafters. Agility starts at d6
  • Orcs are warriors and hunters. Strength starts at d6
  • Hobgoblins are strategists and politicians. Smarts start at d6

Suggested Hinderances

  • Lawful (Minor) - Goblin laws are harsh and absolute; only weaker cultures allow criminals to live. Cheating is a capital crime.
  • Brutal (Minor) - Fighting is how goblins greet and bond with each other.
  • Racist (Minor) - Goblins are better than everybody else, just because they are.

Traits

Traits are rated on the dice scale: 0, d4, d6, d8, d10, d12

Attributes

All begin at d4 and new characters have 5 points to raise attributes, one die type per point with a maximum of d12.

  • Agility - Dexterity, coordination, reflexes
  • Smarts - Intellect, perception, logic
  • Spirit - Willpower, mental fortitude, charisma
  • Strength - Physical fitness, muscle strength
  • Vigor - Endurance, health, constitution

Skills

Every character begins with the four common skills and one knowledge skill at a base value of d4. All other skills begin at 0 and new characters have 12 points to gain and improve skills; 1 point will improve a skill one die up to the linked attribute. Untrained skill tests, skill level 0, are made at d4-2.

Common Skills


  • Athletics (strength) - Physical strength and coordination: climbing, jumping, swimming, and most other physical activities.
  • Common Knowledge (smarts) - Local knowledge, local history, local geography, local politics, etc. Anything a typical resident could know.
  • Notice (smarts) - The ability to perceive something out of place, somebody sneaking, or otherwise unexpected. Also use this skill to recognize that something not-obvious and non-hidden is significant.
  • Persuasion (spirit) - The ability to convince others to agree to do or say something willingly through negotiation, politics, or deception.
  • Stealth (agility) - Move silently, hide, camouflage, and other sneaking stealthy things.

General Skills


  • Academics (smarts) - Knowledge of culture, history, language, etc. Higher education and general knowledge that doesn't rise to the level of "science".
  • Animals (spirit) - Handling tame and wild animals. Training them, riding them, sensing their needs or intentions, etc.
  • Battle (smarts) - Tactical and strategic planning for ambushes, large battles, siege warfare, etc.
  • Boating (agility) - The knowledge and ability to handle a boat or ship, on the sea or air.
  • Gambling (smarts) - Winning bets and games of skill or chance.
  • Healing (smarts) - Identify ailments, craft and apply healing ointments, set splints, cure poison, etc. Use this skill to deal with any non-magical physical damage or affliction.
  • Intimidation (spirit) - Using insults, taunts, threats, and aggressive language to coerce another person to do or say something they don't want to do.
  • Investigation (smarts) - Research and logical thinking, used to follow a trail of clues or solve puzzles. Use this skill any time the book references "Research" but it is also used for social and situational investigations.
  • Occult (smarts) - Knowledge of the cosmology, primal dagapesh, the ilthura, elementals, etc. Use this skill to decipher runes, recognize magical effects, and identify curses.
  • Performance (spirit) - Performing for an audience: acting, singing, dancing, playing an instrument, etc.
  • Science (smarts) - Knowledge of hard science such as engineering, chemistry, geology, physics, etc.
  • Survival (smarts) - The knowledge and practice of wilderness survival: navigation, hunting and gathering, build camps and shelters, predicting weather, etc.
  • Thievery (agility) - Dishonest work: pickpocketing, lockpicking, and other kinds of skulldugery.

Combat Skills


  • Shooting (agility) - Attack with any ranged weapon such as bows, crossbows, bolos, and thrown weapons.
  • Fighting (agility) - Attack and defense in close quarters using any kind of weapon, improvised weapon, or martial arts.

Magic Skills


Requires the appropriate Supernatural Background.

  • Alchemy (smarts) - Delver arcane magic is the skill of altering the properties of materials.
  • Diva (spirit) - Human primal magic affects thoughts and emotions and, to a lesser extend, living humans.
  • Druid (spirit) - Sylvan primal magic is the skill of creating potions and salves and changing the shape of nature.
  • Sorcery (sprit/smarts) - Sorcery is magic that manifests as a natural ability of the character. Primal sorcery uses spirit, arcane sorcery uses smarts.
  • Wizardry (smarts) - Human arcane magic used to summon and control elementals.

Hindrances

You may and should take up to 4 points in hinderances. Roleplaying hinderances is a powerful way to get extra bennies; you should have one hinderance that directly affects traits and the remaining points in personality and role-playing hinderances. Consider your attachments, ideals, and flaws and how you can represent those as hinderances.

  • 2 points can raise an attribute one die or choose an edge.
  • 1 point can improve a skill one die or gain additional starting equipment.

Edges

Characters get edges from Hinderance points or from advances, aka "leveling up".

Wealth

Asmythe uses an abstract wealth system, removing the need to count coins and inventory your inventory. This system assumes that characters have easy access to their wealth or are able to issue IOUs that will be honored by the Tridale Trade Company or local oligarch.

We also don't keep track of expendable items such as arrows, bolts, torches, rations, etc. But a critical failure or dramatic conditions could indicate that supplies have run out.

Wealth is a trait that ranges from 0 to d12, just like other traits. Most characters start with basic adventuring gear and d6 wealth, which is enough to have residence at a local inn or a room in a shared residence. Wealth tests use the wild die just like any other trait test.

Each level of wealth has two values, pocket and limit, that determine what purchases can be made. Any purchases less than pocket value can be made without a wealth check; the cost is too small to note. Any purchase above the limit is too expensive, the character can't afford this purchase without selling investments. A purchase that is more than pocket and less than limit, requires a wealth test. Sum all purchases in a short amount of time, usually a day or two, to find the total value of the shopping trip and use this value to determine if a wealth test is necessary.

Wealth Description Pocket Value Purchase Limit
0 Beggar $0 $10
d4 Laborer $10 $100
d6 Commoner $50 $500
d8 Freeman $150 $2000
d10 Lord $450 $5000
d12 Noble $1000 $10,000

Wealth tests are modified by the quality and rarity of the purchase and the prosperity of the local economy. These modifiers stack.

  • A success means the purchase can be made, but it will use significant resources and reduces the wealth trait one level. If wealth would be reduced below 0 then the purchase can't be made.
  • A raise means the purchase can be made without reducing wealth.
  • A failure means the purchase isn't possible. The item can't be found or you can't afford it.

Purchasing Modifiers

Economy Quality Rarity Modifier
City Low Very Common +1
Town Standard Common +0
Village High Rare -1

Whenever you gain a financial reward, such as from an adventure or bounty, you may either spend it on a shopping spree or increase your wealth, but not both.

  • Shopping spree: Spend some or all of the reward on purchases. Any remaining after the shopping spree becomes part of your wealth without affecting the trait.
  • Increase Wealth: Deposit cash in the bank and buy investments. Wealth becomes the highest level that has a limit less than the reward. Increasing wealth does not confer any property or title, as you would get from edges.

For example, after defeating Bullnose Bill and his band of ruffians the pair of adventurers each receive a reward worth $1000. Tom recently purchased a new set of armor and his current wealth is a d4; he chooses to use all of his reward to increase his wealth level back up to d6 ($1000 < $2000). Terry already has d6 wealth and goes on a shopping spree, she spends $750 and the remaining $250 becomes part of her existing d6 wealth.

Edges and Hinderances

  • Poverty - wealth is d4 and the character lives day-to-day. They often sleep in the gutter, stables, or at a boarding house.
  • Rich - increase wealth to d8 and the character has a house, a small farm, a small shop, or similar.
  • Filthy Rich - increase wealth to d10 and the character has a small estate, trading house, noble title, or similar.

Equipment

Characters begin with basic adventure gear and d6 wealth.

Basic Adventure Gear

  • Backpack
  • Bedroll: wool blanket wrapped in a waxed canvas tarp
  • Casual clothes
  • Mess kit: cup, cutlery, field knife
  • Tinderbox
  • Torches
  • Travel boots and cloak
  • Travel rations
  • Twine
  • Water canteen
  • One weapon (sword, staff, axe, mace, bow, etc.)
  • A light leather coat (armor +1).
  • Appropriate professional gear such as a wizard's device, holy symbol, lockpicks, etc. (subject to GM review)

Supernatural Powers

Supernatural traits can be either arcane or primal. The page on Magic describes each in great detail. Characters never have more than one supernatural background.

Backgrounds

Signature Powers are in addition to other starting powers. When a power is learn it has a trapping, an effect, associated with an element or dagapesh. This trapping can only be changed with an edge.

Alchemy This is an arcane supernatural background common to delvers. Delver alchemy is the ability to alter the properties of inorganic material and to create elemental-powered devices. Alchemists almost never go on adventures, delver culture expects them to practice their science in their labs for the benefit of the delver stronghold. Delver alchemical science is the ability to alter materials by infusing them with elemental energy. These materials can be shaped and sculpted to create magical devices.

  • Starting Powers: 1
  • Power Points: 15
  • Powers are Devices: Each power is expressed as a device, all devices share the same power pool. Devices can not be used by others, only the alchemist that created the device is able to control the elemental within the device. If the device is lost then it must be recovered or recreated before the power can be used again. Creating a new device requires 4 days, -1 per raise, in an alchemical workshop.
  • Elemental Choice: Each power must be associated with (have a trapping of) a specific element, but they can be different elements for each power.
  • Signature Power: Fuse Elemental. This must be performed as a ritual inside an alchemical workshop.
  • Reduced Backlash: When a power roll critically fails the alchemist is not fatigued; instead the device malfunctions and requires an hour of repair, with access to tools, before it can be used again.


Diva This is a primal supernatural background common to humans. Divas use song and music to shape the dreams of the dagapesh and affect thoughts and emotions in living creatures. Diva magic affects mind, emotions, and destiny. It can not make any physical changes in creatures or things but can imbue objects and create artifacts. Each diva draws from a specific dagapesh for their power and their powers will manifest to reflect the intentions and emotions of that dagapesh.

  • Starting Powers: 3
  • Starting Power Points: 10
  • Dagapesh: Choose a dagapesh, all powers must have a trapping of that dagapesh. That means that every power will elicit an emotional response or reaction that supports the goals of that dagapesh in some way.
  • Signature Power: Empathy; all divas know how to use music to form an empathic bond. Diva empathy is a two-way bond; the target also understands the emotional state of the diva and it allows them to communicate with each other, even though each still speaks their own language.


Druid This is a primal supernatural background common to sylvani. Druids protect and nurture the natural, living land of Asmythe. They can often speak with animals and trees, reshape wood and bone, and manifest the will of the dagapesh in their creations. Druids do not align themselves with a specific dagapesh, rather they pledge to sustain the natural world.

  • Starting Powers: 3
  • Starting Power Points: 10
  • Signature Power: Shape Wood, see below.
  • Imbuing Only: Druids can not use powers normally but can imbue objects with power. All druids have the Imbuing edge.
  • Nature Magic: Druids suffer -2 on activation rolls while wearing or using any metal armor, weapons, or tools.


Sorcery Sorcery is the untrained and undisciplined use of magic as a natural ability. Sorcerers have a power they barely understand and can't always control. This background is intended to provide a supernatural power to characters who aren't focused on using magic. For example, an archer could use sorcery to turn arrows into bolts of lightning, a monk could gain a power that makes them super strong, a ranger could animate plants to entangle enemies around them, a warrior could manifest a magical shield, a thief could walk on walls, etc.

  • Starting Powers: 1
  • Starting Power Points: 10
  • Starting Skill: Sorcery, d4 (free with the edge)
  • Sorcerers have a phrase or action they must use to activate their power.
  • Sorcery powers always target the sorcerer or have an effect emanating from the sorcerer. Power range is always "self" or "touch", decided when the power is chosen.
  • A sorcerer's power always has the same trappings but can be modified (pg 152).
  • Sorcerers may not imbue or enchant objects.
  • Sorcery is still either arcane or primal but are used like a natural ability without the requirements and benefits of trained magic use.


Wizardry This is an arcane supernatural background common to humans. Wizardry is the ability to harness the power of elementals. Wizards learn use ilthura science to cleanse and attune crystals to a specific element, set them in a staff, and then channel elemental energy through those crystals. This process is complex and dangerous so most wizards only learn how to harness a single element. The crystal can be made from any pure metal or gem at least an inch in the smallest dimension; each crystal can only be attuned to one element.

  • Starting Powers: 2
  • Starting Power Points: 15
  • Wizard Staff: Wizards must hold their wizard staff, set with a crystal attuned to the appropriate element, to use their powers. Attuning a crystal and setting it in a staff requires one day in a wizard lab.
  • Elemental Specialty: Choose one primary element, all powers must have a trapping of that element. This can be enhanced with edges.
  • Signature Power: Elemental Manipulation, but only for elements the wizard has learned to master.
  • Dynamic Backlash: Wizardry is far more dangerous and unpredictable than other kind of magic. When a wizard suffers backlash use the Dynamic Backlash table on page 138.


Powers

Powers are listed in the core book, the SWADE Fantasy Companion, and the Tomes and Prayers expansion. Powers are available to characters with the appropriate magic background, determined by effect.

Additional Powers


  • Fuse Elemental (N, alchemy) - [1+, touch, instant] An alchemist fuses an elemental into an inorganic object to change one of its properties. The object must be less than 3 feet in the largest dimension. For example an object could be made naturally warm, more dense, slightly translucent, to glow dimly, or a myriad of other changes. This ability can not transmute objects, only alter them in some minor way: warm objects aren't hot enough to cook with, only vague shadows can be seen though a translucent object, glowing object provide barely enough light to read, etc. An alemental may also be infused into a mechanism, stabalizing that mechanism and preventing a destructive elemental from infesting it.
  • Shape Wood (N, druid) - [1+, touch, instant] A druid can permanently change the shape of wood, bone, or any organic material not currently part of a living animal. The material being shaped must be less than 3ft in the largest dimension, although it can be part of a larger plant. The material can be shaped into any stable form and made more or less dense as long as the mass remains the same. With this power druids can shape a tree into a house and create tools and armor as strong as metal.

Power Effects

In the core book these are described as "trappings". Whenever a power is learned the effects of that power are chosen and remain the same every time that power is used. Arcane powers work by controlling the power of elementals and select an elemental trapping for each power. Primal powers work by manipulating emotions and select an emotion associated with a dagapesh.

Power Backlash

Magic is inherently complex and difficult to control. Any time a magical skill critically fails the power will "backlash" ending all active powers and causing a point of fatigue with an effect depending on the effect and type of magic. A wizard is wracked as uncontrolled elemental energy surges through them; a diva's mind is filled with a cacophony of noise only they can hear.

Power Modifiers

All those listed in the core book, page 152, in addition to those below. Power modifiers, if any, are selected when a power is cast.

Wizards who have learned to master multiple elements can modify the trappings of a known power to any element they have mastered when activating the power. Powers used this way cost +1 power point to activate. For example, a fire wizard with Elemental Adept can modify their Fire Bolt spell to be Lightning Bolt by spending an additional power point. (The trappings/description of lightning bolt will always be the same and should be decided in advance, just like other power trappings.)

Supernatural Edges

This list replaces those in the core book. Requirements are in parentheses; all require a supernatural background, obviously.

  • Advanced Artificer (H, Artificer) - Create permanent artifacts that don't deteriorate.
  • Artificer (V, Enchanting) - Enables the wizard or diva to create semi-permanent magical objects. These major magical devices are very powerful and difficult to create, see Enchanting for details.
  • Channeling (S) - Recover 1 power point if you get a raise on a supernatural skill test.
  • Drain Life (S, primal) - Drain the life from plants in a 3ft radius around you to recover 5 power points. This is a narrative action and can increase power points above pool maximum.
  • Desecrate (H, primal) - Touch a dying creature and drain its life to recover 10 power points. This is a narrative action and can not cause any wounds. This can increase power points above pool maximum.
  • Elemental Adept (N, arcane) - A wizard learns to master minor elements, they can modify powers to use either element adjacent to their primary element(s).
  • Elemental Master (S, Elemental Adept) - By mastering another primary element or an outer element the wizard may create powers from that element. This can be taken multiple times.
  • Enchanting (S, Imbuing) - Enables the wizard or diva to create magical devices with multiple uses: wands, clothing, jewelry, etc. See Enchanting for details.
  • Familiar (N, primal) - Primal magicians form a mutual bond with a wild animal, turning it into a companion. (Fantasy Add-on: Companions and Familiars)
  • Great Power (V, arcane) - Spend a benny to gain 20 power points that must be used on the next power, activated at -2. Lose a point of fatigue after activation. If the power critically fails then permanently lose a die in one attribute of your choice.
  • Imbuing (N) - Enables the wizard or diva to imbue single-use items with a power anybody can use. These are potions, scrolls, magic arrows, etc. Imbuing is described in Wizards and Mystics on page 14, see Enchanting for details.
  • Instrument (N, diva) - A diva who uses an instrument in addition to verbal performances receives a +1 on activation rolls.
  • Mercy (N, diva) - A diva may spend one power point and use their music to encourage a character within Spirit range. This will remove distracted, vulnerable, or shaken status.
  • Natural Power (S, sorcery) - A sorcerer has learned to activate their power without the usual words or gestures.
  • New Powers (N) - Learn two new powers.
  • Prestige (S) - Learn a new power which is a combination of two powers that can only be used together as a single power. Use the higher duration, casting time, range, etc. of each individual power.
  • Power Surge (N) - Recover 10 power points when dealt a joker, up to pool maximum.
  • Rapid Recharge (S) - Meditate to recover 10 power points per hour.
  • Soul Drain (S) - Sacrifice a level of fatigue to recover 5 power points.
  • Power Points (N) - Gain 5 additional power points, increasing your pool maximum.

Character Archetypes

Archetypes are similar to classes in other RPG systems, but instead of strictly defining character abilities they describes what characters are like. There are many more archetypes than I have listed here and players may create their own characters and backstory in whatever style they like.

Artificer.jpg Alchemist

Delvers have developed advanced metallurgy and alchemy, drawing on arcane energy to power their industry. Delvers alchemists are able to create and command constructs powered by elemental energy.

  • Attributes: Agility d4, Smarts d10, Spirit d6, Strength d4, Vigor d6
  • Skills:
  • Edges: Alchemy, Hard to Kill
  • Hinderances: Greedy, Outsider, Stubborn, Quirk
  • Gear: warhammer, light leather coat, basic adventure gear
  • Example:


Barbarian.jpg Barbarian

The barbarian is a primitive and ferocious warrior from a land far from civilization. They are often brash and confident in their strength. They are accustomed to the wilds but lost in cities and towns.

  • Attributes: Agility d6, Smarts d4, Spirit d4, Strength d8, Vigor d8
  • Skills: Adventuring d6, Animals d4, Archery d6, Athletics d6, Common Knowledge d4, Intimidation d6, Melee d8, Notice d4, Profession: mercenary d4, Survival d6
  • Edges: Brawny, Berserk
  • Hinderances: Illiterate, Outsider, Overconfident
  • Gear: Greatsword or maul, light leather coat, basic adventure gear
  • Example: Conan the Barbarian


Bard.jpg Bard

Bards are travelers, entertainers, and occasionally spies who use primal magic. They are often as comfortable in the king's hall as they are in the bustling markets.

  • Attributes: Agility d8, Smarts d6, Spirit d8, Strength d4, Vigor d4
  • Skills:
  • Edges: Diva, Attractive
  • Hinderances: Loyal, Driven (minor), Mild Mannered, Cautious
  • Gear: Shortsword, dagger, light leather coat, basic adventure gear, lute (or other musical instrument)
  • Example:


Bounty hunter.png Bounty Hunter

Younger sons and daughters who have no hope of an inheritance often seek their fortune and a life of adventure hunting monsters, outlaws, and other threats that a local patronage ruler wants eliminated.

  • Attributes: Agility d6, Smarts d4, Spirit d4, Strength d8, Vigor d8
  • Skills:
  • Edges: Nerves of Steel, Combat Reflexes
  • Hinderances: Vow (defend the kingdom), Quirk, Impulsive
  • Gear: Longsword, shield, light leather coat, basic adventure gear
  • Example:


Cleric.png Crusader

Crusaders are fighters driven by a purpose. They seek to change the world, molding it into the design of a primal dagapesh.

  • Attributes: Agility d4, Smarts d6, Spirit d8, Strength d6, Vigor d6
  • Skills:
  • Edges: Diva, Danger Sense
  • Hinderances: Driven (minor), Heroic, Vow (minor)
  • Gear: Mace, light leather coat, basic adventure gear, religious trappings
  • Example:


Druid.jpg Druid

Sylvan druids follow the old ways of nature and spirit. They are part of the wild lands, friend to plant and beast. They know which plants to use for potion and poison and often have animal companions.

  • Attributes: Agility d6, Smarts d8, Spirit d8, Strength d4, Vigor d4
  • Skills:
  • Edges: Druidic, Beast Master
  • Hinderances: Outsider, Driven (minor), Quirk (vegetarian, won't kill animals), Illiterate
  • Gear: Staff, bow, light leather coat, basic adventure gear
  • Example:


Monk.jpg Monk

Many of the factions of The Hand of Sol have secluded monasteries where they take in the poor, sick, and rejected and give them food shelter and meaning. Most of these monks learn only basic defense or administration, a few with the gift of primal magic are able to become formidable fighters.

  • Attributes: Agility d6, Smarts d4, Spirit d4, Strength d8, Vigor d8
  • Skills:
  • Edges: Martial Artist, Brawler
  • Hinderances: Poverty, Vow (serve the Hand of Sol), Quirk, Loyal
  • Gear: Staff, sling, basic adventure gear, religious trappings
  • Example: Kane from Kung Fu the Legend Continues


Ranger.jpg Ranger

Rangers are scouts, hunters, and explorers who spend most of their time in the wilderness patrolling the edges of civilization and protecting us from monsters and bandits.

  • Attributes: Agility d8, Smarts d6, Spirit d4, Strength d6, Vigor d6
  • Skills:
  • Edges: Free Runner, Marksman
  • Hinderances: Habit (smokeleaf), Overconfident, Quirk
  • Gear: Hand axe, bow, light leather coat, basic adventure gear
  • Example: Strider from Lord of the Rings


Bladesinger.jpg Runeblade

The runeblade is a wizard trained in combat by the Eye of Horus. They don't have the focused combat training of a knight or the depth of arcane expertise of wizards but combine the two into an elite combat style.

  • Attributes: Agility d6, Smarts d4, Spirit d8, Strength d8, Vigor d4
  • Skills:
  • Edges: Sorcery, Trademark Weapon
  • Hinderances: Vow (serve the Eye of Horus), Code of Honor, Quirk
  • Gear: enchanted longsword, light leather coat, basic adventure gear
  • Example:


Thief.jpg Scoundrel

The Scoundrel is a thief and swindler of the city who prospers by taking what belongs to others and making in their own.

  • Attributes: Agility d8, Smarts d6, Spirit d6, Strength d4, Vigor d6
  • Skills:
  • Edges:
  • Hinderances:
  • Gear: Short sword, two daggers, rope, light leather coat, basic adventure gear
  • Example:


Swashbuckler.png Swashbuckler

Swashbucklers are smart and agile duelists. They often enjoy taking risks and experiencing adventure as it is told in the stories.

  • Attributes: Agility d8, Smarts d4, Spirit d4, Strength d8, Vigor d6
  • Skills:
  • Edges: Ambidextrous, Two-Fisted
  • Hinderances:
  • Gear: Two short swords, two daggers, light leather coat, rope, basic adventure gear
  • Example: Captain Jack Sparrow from Pirates of the Caribbean


Treasure hunter.jpg Treasure Hunter

Treasure hunters search for treasure and lost artifacts among the ruins of lost civilizations. They are experts at research and puzzle solving.

  • Attributes: Agility d6, Smarts d8, Spirit d6, Strength d4, Vigor d6
  • Skills:
  • Edges:
  • Hinderances: Curious
  • Gear: Hand axe, bow, light leather coat, basic adventure gear, rope, lantern
  • Example: Indiana Jones


Wizard.jpg Wizard

Wizards have spent long hours studying and practicing arcane arts. They are experts at cosmology and magical theory, and little else.

  • Attributes: Agility d6, Smarts d10, Spirit d6, Strength d4, Vigor d4
  • Skills:
  • Edges:
  • Hinderances:
  • Gear: enchanted staff, enchanted robes, basic adventure gear
  • Example: