Caelestis Ulterius RPG Information Databank

TECHNICAL SKILLS

Animal Training Used to train animals and trainable monsters. Use a 1/10th roll if the animal is generally considered untrainable (i.e. cats). Base Skill: 20+5% per level of experience.

Antiquarian: Knowledge of historical and ancient artifacts, including the ability to accurately appraise valuables. Includes a basic understanding of precious stones and metals. Of course, the definition of "historical" depends on the game and era played; i.e. this skill would be used by a Black Marketeer to appraise items (his area of specialty), while most other games would not include 20th/21st century technology in the skill. The exact nature of the area(s) of specialization of the skill is up to the GM, and may be based on the History Specialization's possessed. Base Skill: 40% + 5% per level of experience.

Architecture is the art and science of designing buildings and structures. This encompasses all the practical matters of site, of materials and their limitations and of human capability. The second concern is "articulation"; the building must work and must please and suit the needs of those who use it. The third concern of the architect is aesthetics, both of proportion and of ornament. Base Skill: 40+5% per level of experience.

Area Knowledge Characters must specify what area they have knowledge about. The smaller the area, the greater the knowledge. i.e. Knowledge of a kingdom will give a general overview of their customs policies, imports/exports, etc. while a knowledge of a specific area of the city will give specific details of hiding places, escape routes, safe houses, etc. Base Skill: 25+5% per level of experience.

Basic Drafting: Includes reading and drawing simple blueprints, as well as making fairly good-quality drawings (Basic Mathematics required). Base Skill: 50% + 5% per level of experience.

Boat Building This skill enables the character to build a variety of rafts, small rowboats, large flatbed boats, and canoes. A small raft (two man) can be made within 1d6+1 hours if the lumber or other suitable materials and tools are readily available. A large raft will take about 4d6 hours a canoe 2d6 days, rowboat 4d4 days, large flatbed 1d4x10 days. Time is doubled or tripled if trees must be cut down and wood prepared. Of course, the time can be reduced if several knowledgeable people are working on the construction. A failed skill roll means the boat has leaks. Trying to patch it will require 4d4 hours. Base Skill: 25+5% per level of experience.

Bowyer/Fletcher The ability to construct or repair bows and arrows from raw materials. Repairing a bow greatly increases the likelihood it will break again, causing injury to the user and possibly those nearby. Every shot with a repaired bow has a 1 in 6 chance of the bow shattering. User takes damage of 1d6+PS bonus (automatically), roll to strike for nearby characters to take 1d6 dam as well from flying bits. Base Skill: 30+5% per level of experience.

Breed Dogs: The first percentile number indicates the art of raising, mating/breeding, taming and training domestic and wild canines, as well as a knowledge about canines in general. The second percentile number is used to attempt to tame a wild canine, teach a dog tricks, or to train the animal for a specific task like tracking, retrieving, pointing, herding animals, attack on command, and so on. A failed roll means that the animal refuses to learn that particular trick or specialty. Note: These are trained work animals or pets, not familiars. Base Skill: 40%/20% + 5 % per level of experience.

Brewing: Is the making of fermented alcoholic beverages from grains or fruits. This specifically includes brandy, rum, and whiskey, champagnes or fine wines, wine, mead, ale, beer and moonshine. The first percentile number indicates the chance of success (a failed roll means a ruined batch of booze). The second indicates the quality of the brew — the higher the number rolled the tastier the drink. (+5% to Holistic Medicine) Base Skill: 20/30+5% per level of experience.

BS Writing: Similar to both the Technical: Writing skill and the BS Smooth Talking skill, BS Writing is much like a mix of the two. This is the ability to come up with a completely lame-ass piece of writing that will pass off as a genuine article. This also includes the ability to think up some BS and right it on the fly, much like righting this skill description . Characters skilled in BS Writing will often use a lot of proverbs and will use many big words in their writing, such as supercalifragilisticexpealodocious and acetylsalicylic acid . Base Skill: 45% + 5% per level of experience.

Building Construction Knowledge in the methods for building houses bridges, towers, etc. This includes knowing what building materials should be used, knowing how to set frames, what tools and techniques are appropriate, and accurately reading architectural plans to build some sort of structure. Will also know how to use most construction equipment, drill holes, etc. Note: Having the Armourer skill will enable him to build structures out of metals as well as wood. [Carpentry, Masonry, Plumbing] Base Skill: 40+5% per level of experience.

Bureaucracy: This skill involves knowledge of bureaucracies and their procedures. It can be used in two ways. First, to determine whether a player character knows something about a bureaucracy (how to get the right form), or about bureaucracy in general (what kinds of things they're likely to require). It can be used to obtain cooperation from a bureaucrat. Someone unfamiliar with a bureaucracy can struggle with forms, procedures and bureaucrats for hours without getting what he/she wants; someone who knows how to deal with bureaucrats will figure out the right procedures, which forms he needs, and who he needs the approval of or cooperation from a bureaucracy. Of course there are penalties on the type of information being requested:

Available to All (finding out how much you owe for that car you bought.) - 0%
Available to Almost Anyone (finding out who's on the next flight coming into town.) - 10%. Any situations in between may be + or - 5% that is up to the GM and/or the players.
Available to Anyone Who Qualifies (Use of credit or to acquire a loan from a bank.) -20%. Any situations in between may be + or - 5% that is up to the GM and/or the players.
Fairly Restricted (Low level secrets that even privates know, that have and/or can be leaked to the public.) - 30%. Any situations in between may be + or - 5% that is up to the GM and/or the players.
Moderately Restricted (Limited to Lieutenants and above, no civilians can obtain access to the information.) -40%. Any situations in between may be + or - 5% that is up to the GM and/or the players.
Extremely Restricted (Limited to Colonels and above, no civilians can obtain access to the information.) -50%. Any situations in between may be + or - 5% that is up to the GM and/or the players.
The difficulty is modified for: (All are accumulative)
How common or unusual the request is. Bureaucracies have smooth procedures for dealing with common problems, but are unwilling to break rules or establish new procedures.
- Whether officials have particular reason to trust the character. Whether officials have a particular reason to distrust the character (Coalition or ally dealing with their particular officials - 15%).
- Known crime figures dealing with any type of authority - 30%.
- Any situations in between may be + or - 5% that is up to the GM and/or the players.

Once the difficulty number is determined, make a skill roll. Success means the character gets what he wants in short order (depending on circumstances, that can mean in a few minutes or a few days). Failure means his request is refused, or routed elsewhere, or the bureaucracy will take days or months making up his mind, etc. Base Skill: 60% + 5% per level of experience.

Chinese Antiquarianism: Knowledge of the value and rarity of Chinese artistic, historical and ancient artifacts. The character can attempt to appraise the dollar value of any item. In addition, the character knows how to buy and sell antiques, and will be able to locate customers for any given item. The character can also attempt to determine fakes and frauds, based on both the quality of the item, as well as whether or not it fits correctly into the knowledge of the period. Also includes a basic understanding of precious stones and metals and the ability to do simple quality tests. For example, the character can do a simple test for the purity of gold or examine a gem and determine its size (carats), clarity and luster. Base Skill: 35% + 5% per level of experience.

Chinese Calligraphic Codes & Code Breaking: This very special form of Cryptography involves training in Chinese mythology, the classics of Chinese literature, plus an extensive investigation into the different styles and techniques of Chinese calligraphy. Chinese codes usually involve two levels of deception. First, the characters are altered, substituted, or invented, so that the code-breaker will have to figure out a whole new "alphabet." Second, the messages are usually cryptic references to historical or mythic figures, so the code-breaker has to have a good knowledge of books and legends. Base Skill: 10% + 2% per level of experience.

Chinese Classical Studies: The character is a master of the four categories of classics of China, including hing (classics), Shih (history), Tzu (philosopher's writing), and Chi (miscellany). In addition, the character has committed to memory (to the point where they could pass one of the fabled imperial examinations) the Five Sacred Books (the I Ching, Shih Ching (Book of Odes), Shu Ching (Book of History), Li Chi (Book of Ritual), and Ch'un Ch'iu (Spring & Summer Annals)) -- and the four books of Confucian thought -- The Great Learning, the Doctrine of the Mean, Analects of Confucius, and the Works of Mencius. Base Skill: 40% + 5% per level of experience.

Chinese Mythology - Buddhist: This skill is pretty much the same as the Taoist version, except that it deals with the equally crowded hordes of Chinese Buddhist entities. However, it is a different skill from the Taoist version. Base Skill: 35%+5% per level of experience.

Chinese Mythology - Taoist: Includes extensive knowledge of the vast library of works on Chinese myths relating to gods, ghosts, demons, monsters, dragons, Immortals, and the undead. Since there are such a vast array of mythic entities (it is said, for example, that every star in the sky corresponds to a named deity in Chinese Mythology), character is very skilled at locating written references on any given subject. This is all further complicated by the legends of Immortals becoming gods, of gods becoming mortal, and of virtually any mythic figure dying and being reincarnated as some "other" mythic figure. Characters will, given a few hours of research time and access to a decent library, be able to come up with a variety of legends (unfortunately, often contradictory) on any given named mythic entity or related to any particular place or period of Chinese history. Base Skill: 35%+5% per level of experience.

Construction Demolitions: This is the same as the Technical Demolitions skill; however only civilian (construction) applications are taught. When working under military conditions, or with a military application of the skill, subtract 30%. Note: An exception to this is the Military Construction Engineer, who specializes in this kind of work. Base Skill: 60% + 5% per level of experience.

Contacts: Because the number of people living in orbit and the rest of the solar system is so small, there is a good chance that a character will know or have heard of a particular person. This skill measures how good that knowledge of the people around him is . It can also be used to make connections between objects and people who are particularly associated with them. The base percentage of this skill is a character's chance of having heard of a character before. If the person in question is from the same home base or in the same occupation as the character making the roll, this base percentage is doubled. One-tenth of the base percentage is the character's chance of personally knowing the person mentioned.

Court Etiquette Should a nobleman not take this skill they obtain it automatically at 20+3 per level beginning at level 2. Conversely they gain a +10% bonus if they take this skill consciously. A fundamental understanding of the manners of lords, ladies, and other royal figures is provided by this skill. This would extend to include the proper titles used in addressing people of importance, correct introductions of oneself, and the basic functions of court procedures. Several times to “call” for rolls include filibustering, visiting another country’s leaders, and when attending an exclusive ceremony.(Gives +5% to Diplomacy Skill) Base Skill: 25+5% per level of experience.

Crafting Crafting is actually a number of separate skills. It allows you to make an item of the appropriated type and the skill depends on the complexity of the item to be created. The price of the item is determined by how long it takes to make and the cost of the raw materials. In some cases the fabricate spell can be used to achieve the result of a crafting skill, however for the item to have any quality to it the character must know the basics of making the item in the first place. Base Skill: 35+5% per level of experience.

Criminology Criminology is the scientific study of the nature, extent, management, causes, control, consequences, and prevention of criminal behavior, both on individual and social levels. Criminology is an interdisciplinary field in both the behavioral and social sciences, drawing primarily upon the research of sociologists, psychologists, philosophers, psychiatrists, biologists, social anthropologists, as well as scholars of law. Base Skill: 35+5% per level of experience.

Divination

Gem Cutting: The ability to evaluate and cut gemstones. The monetary value of a gemstone can be determined by a thorough examination where any flaws, chips or imperfections will be observed. In addition, the character can cut gem stones to increase their value or cut one stone into several smaller ones. The first percentile number is to appraise gemstones while the second is used to cut stones. When a cutting roll is failed the stone is damaged, which decreases its value. However, the stone can be cut again to repair the flaw; although the stone will be smaller and of lesser value than the original. Base Skill: 25/10% + 5% per level of experience.

Gemology: Skill in identifying and appraising the value of precious metals (silver, gold, etc.) and stones (jade, ruby, sapphire, diamond,etc.). This ability also enables the person to identify fakes, but at a penalty of -10%. A failed roll means the character cannot tell whether or not the item is fake or real, or its value is grossly under or overestimated. Base Skill: 30+5% per level of experience.

History: An extensive and continuing study and love for world history. This skill provides the character with a general knowledge of the growth of civilizations, cultures, religions and myths, past and present. The character will recognize major types of ancient architecture, ruins, areas of historical significance, weapons, characteristics, demons and deities. Select one Lore as an area of particular interest, but note that any educational skill bonuses will not apply to that lore area. Base Skill: 45% + 5% per level of experience. A failed roll means failure to recall details.

History-Era Specialization: There is a big difference between the History skill (roughly equivalent to High School/College US & World Civilization classes) and having a thorough knowledge of an era of history (300 level and above classes on the subject). Each of the following specializations is the result of in-depth study of a cultural era, possibly at the graduate school level. A beginning list of specializations is below; it does not necessarily encompass all possibilities, especially for alien cultures. Note: Some skills are available only in certain games, for obvious reasons.

History, 20th Century: From 1901 to 2000 A.D. Characters who visit the modern world from another time, or another dimension, will be confused and bewildered without this skill. Anyone brought up in the 20th Century will automatically know how to get around in the world, but unless they have this skill, they won't necessarily know anything about the big picture of society and politics. Base Skill: 50% + 5% per level of experience.
History, 19th Century: From 1801 to 1900 A.D. The mature and developed colonial empires are at their height, and with the defeat of Napoleon, Britain becomes the foremost world power. Also covers the birth of the industrial age, when steam engines and massive political movements move millions around the world. Military and weapons technology advances from the flintlock, through the percussion cap, and on to the prototypes for all modern gunpowder weapons. Base Skill: 60% + 5% per level of experience.
History, 18th Century: From 1701 to 1800 A.D. Although America breaks off from Britain to form the United States, virtually every other colonial tactic is successful. The English and French colonial empires continue to grow, while the Spanish and Portuguese gradually fade into feeble and incompetent dominions. Age of Flintlock Guns. Base Skill: 50% + 5% per level of experience.
History, 16th & 17th Century: From 1492 to 1700 A.D. The major feature of this era is the establishment of the first true worldwide empires. Both Spain and Portugal establish global networks of trade and colonization, while England, Holland and France try to fill in the gaps. Age of Matchlock Guns. Base Skill: 60% + 5% per level of experience.
History, Renaissance: From 1350 A.D. to the beginning of the 1500s. After the monotony of the Middle Ages, the following historical period saw dramatic changes in every field of human arts and technology. Age of early (mostly artillery) guns. Base Skill: 50% + 5% per level of experience.
History, Medieval: From roughly 476 A.D. until about 1350 A.D. The age of feudal society, where armored knights, nobles and kings dominated the world by force of personality and arms. Also covers the Gothic Conquests, the Byzantine Empire, and the rise of Muslim Civilization (though the latter is covered in more depth by its own specialty). Base Skill: 40% + 5% per level of experience.
History, Greco-Roman: Rome, and the Roman system of government of laws, played an important role in world affairs for almost 2,000 years. The character will learn about Rome from its start as a City-State, around 500 B.C., through the sacking of Rome in 455 A.D., and continuing through the Byzantine, Eastern Roman Empire, that lasted until 1453 A.D. Also includes classical Greek and Etruscan history, from the time of the Minoan culture up to the rise of Rome. Base Skill: 40% + 5% per level of experience.
History, Ancient Civilizations: Includes a study of Mesopotamian, Sumerian, Babylonian, Egyptian, Phoenician, Greek and Persian civilizations. In other words, all known history, from the earliest records (about 3500 B.C.) until about 200 B.C. Unfortunately, much is unknown about this period, and much more woefully inaccurate. Base Skill: 30% + 5% per level of experience.
History, Chinese: Extensive knowledge of the history of China. The character can, based on architecture, materials, technology, artistic form, and style of calligraphy, identify objects or sites associated with the various dynasties and pre-dynastic periods. The character will know the names, and at least a brief history, of all the various rulers of China, the various kingdoms and provinces, and important neighboring nations, as well as the works of such important writers as Confucius, Mencuius, Lau Tzu, and Sun Tzu. Note: In order to have the Chinese History skill, the character must have at least stage 3 skill in in Chinese Language. Base Skill: 45% + 5% per level of experience.
History, Middle-Eastern (Islamic): Covering from . 600 AD to the modern day, this skill covers the states of the Middle East from the decline of Roman & Byzantine influence and the origins of Islam, to the modern nations that arose from the spread of the religion. To a lesser extent, also covers the non-Islamic states affected by the Islamic ones (Israel, Lebanon, Moor-occupied Spain prior to 1490, etc.). Requires: Knowledge of one of the Islamic philosophies. Base Skill: 40% + 5% per level of experience.
History, Oriental Cultures (general): Unlike Chinese History, this covers China, Mongolia, Japan, and Southeast Asia from Vietnam to Thailand. As this is a lot less specific, the information is as well. One specific area listed (other than Chinese) can be further specialized in, but at the cost of an additional skill slot and a requirement of knowledge of the language for that specialization. Base Skill: 20% + 5% per level of experience. For an area specialization, add +20% to that area, but subtract 10% from all other areas.
History, Indian (Asia): The history of the Asian subcontinent from the arrival of the Aryans through the British colonial era. Is somewhat spotty from 1800 on (use appropriate century skills, otherwise use this skill at -20%), and information concerning the pre-Aryan civilization is mostly theoretical, and based on the legendary stories handed down from that period. Note: Many nontraditional historians (those who don't blindly dismiss the idea of ancient high-tech civilizations) have pointed out that the Vedas and other books have VERY detailed, graphic accounts of the use of aircraft, chemical weapons, and even NUCLEAR WEAPONS, even describing in detail the decontamination procedures for the latter. Base Skill: 40% + 5% per level of experience.
History, West: This is a basic historical knowledge of the myths, legends and (distorted) history of the pre-Rifts West, as well as the post-Rifts New West. The focus of this history is on cowboys, gunslingers, gunfighters, Indians, and their weapons, habits and mannerisms, as well as the Code of the New West, Cowboy's Code, and basic information about notable monsters, vampires and famous people and outlaws. The base skill percentage indicates the approximate degree of information the character has learned or can remember accurately. Base Skill: 30% + 5% per level of experience.
History, Native American: This skill covers the societies of the Americas prior to the arrival of the Conquistadors. Taken as a first level specialization, it covers to an extent all of the societies from Alaska to Chile, but is weak in all areas. When the skill is taken, the character must take an area of concentration, with a bonus of +20% in that area alone. Choose from South American, Central American, North American and Arctic cultures. Base Skill: 20% + 5% per level of experience.
History, Pre-Colonial Africa: This skill covers the African continent from the point of view of the areas not influenced directly by Phoenician or Egyptian ancient civilization, nor by their Greco-Roman conquerors. One has to be careful to keep objective in this area, as much of the "facts" in this field are either remnants of colonial disbelief that the natives could have been responsible, or "Black Power" myths that are as equally fallacious. The only trustworthy histories are the local oral ones, and these can be distorted by later cultural exposure. Base Skill: 20% + 5% per level of experience.

Historical Languages: Besides time travel, these skills are often useful in dealing with ancient supernatural beings.

Language-Classical Greek:

Language-Latin:

Language-Norman French:

Language-Portuguese:

Language-Colonial Spanish:

Chinese Language & Literacy: Chinese, as a language is unique in the world. That's because the language has been in continuous use, both in the spoken and written form, for over three thousand years. And, because the written language is based on abstract characters (ideas), rather than phonetics (sounds), it has become more and more complex as it evolved. Here are the four "levels" of literacy available to characters, depending on which skills they select. Native Speakers get Stage 2 or 3 as their base skill, based on their level of education. An upgrade costs the stage level in slots, not counting other requisites.

Stage 1 - Thousand Character Literacy.

Stage 2 - Chinese Literacy.

Stage 3 - Advanced Chinese Literacy.

Stage 4 - Classical Chinese Literacy.

Instruction The ability to instruct others in basic skills and the use of equipment. With this skill the character is familiar with and trained in, the style of mental and physical pedagogy (education.) The character can instruct another individual or group in any skill they possess if it’s at least 60%. For every 10% of the base skill, there will be one week worth of training. The trainee will receive upon completion of training, a base skill score in that skill if they successfully roll equal to or beneath the base skill number. (i.e. if the base skill is 56%, then after 6 weeks, 6 days of instruction if they roll 56% or less then they have learned that skill.) Should a trainee not pass the base skill roll then they roll 1d6 per week of training and that will be the number of additional hours of retraining before they can re-roll and attempt to gain the skill. For base skills with odd end numbers, round up. If on the 3rd try they still don’t pass, they are not eligible for that skill. Base Skill: 25+5% per level of experience.

Invention: This skill allows the character to take an idea and invent something from it. The skill is used in conjunction with other skills, following the formula below. An example of the invention skill in use is: A blacksmith wishes to make a better, stronger horseshoe, by using his invention, blacksmith, chemistry, and horsemanship: general (first percentile) skills, he comes to a final percentage chance of making the new horseshoe. If the skill roll fails, then the invention is useless, and the inventor has to start again. Formula: [invention percentage + appropriate skill percentages] divided by the total number of skills = final percentage chance of inventing. Invention time is equal to 1 year multiplied by (100% - invention percentage), or longer (GM's discretion, try to be fair). For example: a character wishing to invent the catapult would use the invention skill (35%), carpentry (50%), mathematics: advanced (60%), and blacksmith (45%). The formula would be: [35% + (50% + 60% + 45%)] divided by 4. Giving a final percentage of 47% (always round up) to successfully invent the catapult. The time needed to invent the catapult would be [ 1 year multiplied by (100% - 35%)], making 0.65 years, or about 7 months and 27 days. Although a prototype might be ready in half that time (just don't expect good results when using the prototype). Requirements: A minimum I.Q. of 12. Base Skill: 0% + 5% per level of experience. Note: It is possible to invent something without the invention skill. The character just uses the skills most directly involved in the same formula. The major difference comes in the time needed to complete the invention, which is almost double, or even triple, the time needed for someone who possesses the invention skill.

Investigative: This area of study involves the techniques, principles, and theories of investigation. It trains a person to look for and recognize clues systematically examining details with care and accuracy. This is applicable to environments, events, the spoken word, and body language. Research and interrogation techniques are also learned. The interrogation of a person involves a series of questions which will probe unobtrusively or bluntly into the area in question. The tact of the interrogator may be gentle, quiet and calming or violent, intimidating and unnerving. All of these tactics are verbal and emotional and do not suggest physical abuse/torture. Note: If a character refuses to talk he/she can reveal little. However, body language/movement may tell the interrogators all they need to know. Generally, a person with this skill will uncover at least one or two leads/clues per each hour of investigation. Of course many of them may be false leads, dead ends, or non-conclusive. Game Masters use your discretion in each case, as circumstances can be very different each time, perhaps revealing many clues or none at all even after hours of investigation. Base Skill: 30% + 5% per level of experience.

Japanese Mythology: Includes extensive knowledge of the vast library of works on Japanese myths relating to ghosts, spirits, demons/oni, goblins, faerie folk, monsters, dragons, immortals, undead, elemental forces, supernatural animals and gods. Japanese mythology has so many gods and supernatural beings, including Buddhist and Shinto, that the phenomenon had been called by some 20th Century scholars, the "rush hour of the gods." Base Skill: 30%+5% per level of experience. This skill also gives the character a fair understanding of Chinese Buddhist gods and demons (-10% skill penalty) and even Hindu and Brahmin gods (-20% skill penalty).

Journalism: Fundamental journalistic writing techniques, editing and news reporting, for newspapers, magazines, radio and television. It also includes typing skills. The writing quality is professional if two slots spent on this skill (+10% Bonus). Base Skill: 40% + 4% per level of experience. A failed roll means the item is horribly written.

Language: Characters with a language skill can understand and speak in a language other than their own native tongue. Language is one of the few skills that can be selected repeatedly in order to select several different languages. Each selection gives the character knowledge of a different language and costs one skill selection each time. There are many major languages in the Mega-verse, Here is a listing of some of them. Base Skill: 50% + 5% per level of experience.

Language Dialects: Taking this skill for a particular language means the character will be able to communicate in all the dialects of that language. This roll is needed only when the dialect in question i different to the character's own dialect. It can also be used to make out words in closely related language trees (Dutch/German, the Slavic Languages, or the Romance languages). Base Skill: 50% + 5% per level of experience.

Library Use: Library science is an interdisciplinary or multidisciplinary field that applies the practices, perspectives, and tools of management, information technology, education, and other areas to libraries; the collection, organization, preservation, and dissemination of information resources; and the political economy of information. Base Skill: 50% + 5% per level of experience.

Literacy: The written word is more valuable than ever in the world of Rifts, yet, sadly, the majority of the world's population can not read or write. Those who are literate will be viewed with suspicion unless they are a member of the Coalition's elite aristocracy or military. Like the language skill, the character may be able to read and write several different languages, but each language counts as a separate skill selection. American/English is the official written language of the Coalition. Base Skill: 30% + 5% per level of experience.

Lore - Animal: This is the ability to identify any species and races of animals. This does not give the ability to identify any type of monsters or supernatural creatures. Base Skill: 25% + 5% per level of experience.

Lore: Astral An in depth knowledge about the Astral Plane, Outer Plane, Inner Plane, Void, and major kingdoms, as well as a general knowledge about astral travel, methods of travel and navigation, astral beings, domains and dangers. Having this skill will add an additional +2% per level to the Astral Navigation psionic power (see Nightbane: Between the Shadows; New Psionic abilities). Astral Lore can only be learned from the few individuals and organizations who regularly venture into the Astral Plane. Base Skill: 26% + 4% per level of experience.

Lore - Cattle/Animals: This is a general knowledge about cattle, horses, livestock, and other notable animals of the West. This knowledge includes what they eat, where they live in the wild, means of defense, the value of their meat, fur, hides and horns, and their natural predators, as well as the most notable tales about supernatural animals, spirits, gods and magic attributed to or involving animals (including some Indian spirit and totem lore). Base Skill: 30% + 5% per level of experience.

Lore - Conspiracy: A comprehensive knowledge about the issue of conspiracy and cover-ups by world governments in the areas of the paranormal, UFOs, military, experimental testing, etc. by such participants as the FBI, KGB, CIA, and major world governments. The character knows the theories about the Roswell incident, Area 51, telekinetic weapons testing by the Russian government, the Illuminati, and drug and chemical weapons testing. Base Skill: 30% + 5% per level of experience.

Lore: Creatures/Monsters This is the study of creatures,supernatural fiends and known monsters throughout the ages and around the world. It includes the beliefs of ancient and primitive cultures, vampires, were-beasts, ghosts, specters, monstrous gods and demigods, their known habits, appearance, weaknesses,strengths, powers, and abilities, as well as possession, places of magic,places of habitation or attraction, and legends. The master of this lore may be able to identify a particular type of monsterby hearing its description, or a description of its actions, seeing a drawing or footprint, or by how it acted, killed, or the exhibition of its powers Base Skill: 20+5% per level of experience.

Lore: Demons & Devils This is the study of supernatural demon lore throughout the ages and around the world. It includes the beliefs of ancient and primitive cultures, as well as documentation in the modern world regarding creatures, vampires, possession, places of magic, reputed places of supernatural habitation or attraction, and the study of legendary and known supernatural beings, including their know habits, appearance, weaknesses, strengths, powers and abilities. The master of demon lore may be able to identify a particular type of demon or devil by hearing its description or a description of its actions, seeing a drawing or photograph or footprint, or by how it acted, killed, or exhibited certain abilities. Base Skill: 25% + 5% per level of experience.

Lore: Dreamstream This skill is helpful in understanding and identifying the features, dangers and inhabitants of the Dreamstream. Even a beginner will automatically know of such things as Dream Pools and other major concepts regarding the dream lands. Skill rolls are necessary to identify creatures and events/transformations of the Dreamstream. Base Skill: 25% + 5% per level of experience.

Lore: Faerie Folk This skill is effectively the same as the previous Demon and Monster lore skill, except that the emphasis of the lore is on the faerie folk. Since the coming of the rifts and magic, the fairies of ancient myths have proven to be quite real and often encountered in the wild, especially near ley lines and nexus points. Faerie folk include fairies, sprites, pixies, brownies, bogies, toad stools, pucks, kelpies, gnomes, ogres, and a host of other supernatural beings. Base Skill: 25% + 5% per level of experience.

Lore - Farm: This skill is not to be confused with the science of botany in which the character can farm, and identify and grow plants. Farm lore is a knowledge of myths and legends about real and mythological plants, roots, herbs and farming. It also includes a very basic knowledge of how to grow and care for plants, where notable plants (usually poisonous or medicinal/herbal) and mythical plants are said to be found, and adds a bonus of +2% to the skills of botany, holistic medicine and faerie lore. Base Skill: 25% + 5% per level of experience.

Lore: Geomancy A study of ley lines, burial mounds, places of power, megaliths, and geomancy beliefs that certain places on earth are polarized with an unknown energy or forces that can heal, cause paranormal phenomena, attract supernatural forces, open dimensional gateways, are magical or are places of evil. The study includes "known" locations of such places, such as Stonehenge and the Bermuda Triangle, as well as the many theories behind them and the legacy of legends, mysteries, disappearances and dangers linked to each. The skill will provide the character with insight about the areas and enable him/her to recognize specific, known, places of power, as well as recognize unknown megalithic markers of these revered or feared places. Base Skill: 25% + 5% per level of experience.

Lore - Indians: Characters with this skill can recognize the different tribes and nations, warriors and shamans, totems, fetishes and warnings, identify the people by their housing, clothing and weapons, and has a fundamental understanding about the Native Americans' society, beliefs, customs and laws - at least the most notable. They also know about Indian gods, spirits, and magic. Base Skill: 25% + 5% per level of experience.

Lore: Magic/Mystic Not to be confused with Lore: Magic found in the Magical/Religious category, this skill is basically a layman skill on magic lore and does not give the character any magic powers or the ability to read magic symbols. What it provides is general information about magic, magic creatures and myths about magic. For example, a character with this skill knows about the general powers and abilities of infamous magic creatures such as the various types of dragons, sphinxes, unicorn, and so on. He'd know what the main types of magic (on Earth or at least his geographic area) are, such as spell casting, summoning, rifting, techno-wizardry, stone magic, temporal magic, bio-wizardry, rune magic, necromancy, and so. Likewise, the character is likely to know legends about powerful magic items, magic places, magic curses and related legends. Although the character cannot read runes or mystic symbols, he is likely to be able to recognize whether the symbol is a real magic ward, rune or warning. The following abilities come with this layman's skill:

Base Skill (general knowledge): 25% + 5% per level of experience.
Recognize wards, runes and circles: 15% + 5% per level of experience.
Recognize Enchantment (i.e. magic items, people under charms and curses, etc.): 10% + 5% per level of experience.

Lore: Psychic Characters with this skill have knowledge in the way psychic abilities are believed to work, and what types of psionic abilities exist. This knowledge includes a good idea of the limitations of most psychics and psychic abilities, major known types of P.C.C.s/Psychic R.C.C.s, famous psychics, and similar data. The character does not have to be a psychic himself, but he must believe that such powers exist. Psychic lore is most commonly known by people who are psychic themselves, or involved in the PAB, Pandora Project (see the Spook Squad material in the Nightbane books) or similar organizations in Beyond the Supernatural, Heroes Unlimited or Rifts that study paranormal phenomena. Base Skill: 30% + 5% per level of experience.

Lore: Religion A comprehensive study of the world's religions, past and present, their beliefs, rituals, holy places, pantheons of deities and supernatural creatures (demons, spirits, angels), stories of creation, myths and legends. The skill will help the character recognize specific rituals, their purpose, the deity(s), icons, and similar information. Base Skill: 30% + 5% per level of experience.

Lore - Science: This knowledge gives the character an in-depth understanding about the general overview and concept of the science and the history of the science selected. The character must select a different science each time this skill is selected. For instance, a character can select Lore - Parapsychology and Lore - Botany at the cost of two skills. This skill does not replace the science skill, it just gives the character the knowledge of major discoveries and/or participants. Base Skill: 30% + 5% per level of experience.

Lore - Sea: Knowledge regarding the myths and legends of the oceans and seas of the known world, including the edge of the world, sea monsters, sea creatures and aquatic people, ghost ships, and general knowledge about marine animals and whether or not they are dangerous to humanoids. Base Skill: 25% + 5% per level of experience.

Lore - Technology: Can identify the name, company and type of any equipment found. Characters can also estimate the value of the item and when it was manufactured. Note: Any weapons and other similar type of equipment based on technology can be identified. Base Skill: 40% + 5% per level of experience.

Map Reading: Maps are a difficult things to read, especially if done in another language, or coded military maps. This skill allows the character to read a map by recognizing constellations, land marks and other things to read it properly. Base Skill: 35% + 6% per level of experience.

Operate Heavy Power Tools: Knowledge of exactly how to use heavy equipment such as jackhammers, riveters, welders, pneumatic drills, cutting torches, et cetera. May also be considered a "weapon proficiency," as it gives a +3 to strike the target with these construction implements. Base Skill: 55% + 5% per level of experience.

Oral History This is a basic historical knowledge of the known world with an emphasis on the major human racial groups. A person with this knowledge is likely to recognize the activities of these groups whenever they are encountered. Although generally accurate, time frames can be shortened or exaggerated, and items of particular interest to the community will be given more prominent focus than may be historically correct. The base skill percentage indicates the approximate degree of information the character has learned or can remember. Base Skill: 20+5%

Philosophy: Characters with this skill are educated in one specific philosophical doctrine (Confucianism, Buddhism, Tibetan Lore, Taoism, Shinto, Zen, Existentialism, any major religion, etc.), knowing the main rules, sayings, beliefs, code of conduct, view of the universe/creation, etc. Base Skill: 36% + 6% per level of experience.

Phonetics: Systems of sounds of language, studied from two basic points of view. (1) Phonetics is the study of the sounds of language according to their production in the vocal organs (articulatory phonetics) or their effect on the ear (acoustic phonetics). All phonetics are interrelated because human articulator and auditory mechanisms are uniform. Systems of phonetic writing are aimed at transcribing accurately any sequence of speech sounds; the best known is the International Phonetic Alphabet. (2) Each language uses a limited number of all the possible sounds, celled phonemes, and the hearer-speaker is trained from childhood to classify them into groups of like sounds, rejecting as insignificant all sorts of features actually phonetically present. Thus the speaker of English ignores sounds that are very important in another language, e.g., French or Spanish. Phonemes include all significant differences of sound, among them features of voicing, place and manner or articulation, accent, and secondary features of nasalization, glottalization, ladialization, and the like. The study of the phonemes and their arrangement is the phonemics of a language. Base Skill: 25% + 2% per level of experience.

Photography: Training in the art of still photography, the use of lighting, cameras, lenses, filters, and other camera equipment, as well as storage, development, enlargement, and duplication of film/photos. Base Skill: 35% + 5% per level of experience.

Photography - Film: These characters have studied and analyzed films, direction, editing and story telling techniques of the motion picture. Includes: cinematography (use of cameras, lenses, film, stock, lighting, composition), editing (screen continuity, sound interlocking), budgeting, shooting, production, sound mixing and use of super 8 mm and 16 mm equipment (35 mm principles are studied). Base Skill: 40% + 5% per level of experience.

Photography - Video: This is the study and use of video film equipment and filming techniques as they apply to video. The same basic type of film techniques (editing, lighting, lenses, etc.) as listed under film are explored. Base Skill: 30% + 5% per level of experience.

Pottery: The craft of making pots, vases, mugs, china, and other items made of clay on a potter's wheel and baked in a kiln. The character can also paint and glaze their constructions; this chance is represented by the second percentile. If the person has the art skill at a higher percentage then it is used instead. Failure indicates a ruined pot or a terrible paint job. May be taken twice to denote professional quality. Bonuses: +5% to the second percentile number, if the art skill is known. Base Skill: 10%/5% + 5% per level of experience.

Prospecting: The character can recognize and evaluate precious and semiprecious metals (gold, fool's gold, silver, bronze, copper) in their natural ore appearance and as refined and polished jewelry. In addition, the character has a good idea where to look for such mineral deposits, and the fundamentals of "panning" for gold and the general knowledge of mining and how to use various types of simple mining equipment. Furthermore, the character can identify and appraise the value of precious metals (silver, gold, etc.) and stones (diamonds, rubies, etc.), and to identify fakes, but at a penalty of -10%. A failed roll means the character cannot tell whether or not the item is fake or real, or he grossly under or overestimates its value. Base Skill: 20% + 5% per level of experience.

Public Speaking Training in the quality of sound, tone, pitch, enunciation, clarity, and pace in speaking to the public, loudly and distinctly. Also includes the practice of good, enticing storytelling and composition of the spoken word. The percentile number indicates the overall quality and charisma of the spoken word. Optional: Seeing how the M.A. stat would have a bearing on this skill, a GM may allow a bonus to this skill based on a high M.A., either the I.Q. bonus line or the trust/intimidate bonus divided by 5. Base Skill: 30% + 5% per level of experience.

Pyrotechnics - Basic: The character will be able to set off explosives, such as fireworks, in a controlled and orderly fashion. The character will be able to design and make certain types of explosives. Most of the explosives will be of the S.D.C. nature. The character can also make the powder for bullets, grenades, etc. but only the S.D.C. kind and are limited to under 100 S.D.C. (Optional up to the GM). GM's remember there is a difference between the military use and the civilian use of pyrotechnics. Requires: Chemistry. Base Skill: 50% +5% per level of experience. A failed roll could mean the explosive failed, or the explosive blew up in the laboratory, or nothing happens at all, etc. A reminder This is all up to the GM and/or players to decide and is separate from the Demolitions Skill. Note: If the character starts off at the Basic level the character must reach 98% before they can move on. When reaching the Advanced level the skill gets reduced to 40% and the process starts over to reach the Expert or Professional level.

Pyrotechnics - Advanced: This gives the character to experiment with explosives on a low M.D.C. caliber. The character can design, reload, and make grenades of all types, bullets, etc. GM's remember there is a difference between the military use and the civilian use of pyrotechnics. Please keep this in mind when the characters are using this skill. Counts as Two Skills, unless otherwise stated. Requires: Chemistry and Pyrotechnics: Basic. Base Skill: 30% + 5% per level of experience. A failed roll could mean the explosive failed, or the explosive blew up in the laboratory, or nothing happens at all, etc. A reminder This is all up to the GM and/or players to decide and is separate from the Demolitions Skill. Note: If the character starts off at the Basic level the character must reach 98% before they can move on. When reaching the Advanced level the skill gets reduced to 40% and the process starts over to reach the Expert or Professional level.

Pyrotechnics - Expert: This is the skill that gives the character the ability to build and design bullets, grenades, and missiles. That's right missiles, the missiles that are in the book are due to this skill. GM's remember there is a difference between the military use and the civilian use of pyrotechnics. Please keep this in mind when the characters are using this skill. Counts as Two Skills, unless otherwise stated. Requires: Chemistry and Pyrotechnics: Basic and Advanced. Base Skill: 15% + 5% per level of experience. A failed roll could mean the explosive failed, or the explosive blew up in the laboratory, or nothing happens at all, etc. A reminder This is all up to the GM and/or players to decide and is separate from the Demolitions Skill. Note: If the character starts off at the Basic level the character must reach 98% before they can move on. When reaching the Advanced level the skill gets reduced to 40% and the process starts over to reach the Expert or Professional level.

Racial Cultures Knowledge of the diverse cultures of earth including their habits, traditions, laws, and mores. The character will be aware of what constitutes proper and improper behaviour in foreign lands, among primitive tries and so forth. It also gives the ability to identify tools, weapons and implements associated with the various cultures. (Gives +5% to Diplomacy Skill) Base Skill: 30+5% per level of Experience

Regional Knowledge: Gives an in depth knowledge of a specific city/town with more general knowledge of the local area and basic knowledge of the rest of the country/kingdom/area. Includes personalities, businesses, monsters, animals, etc. Nothing too in depth or specific but very useful information. All players automatically get 175% for this skill at 1st level and can divide that 175% between as many locations as desired with one at 98% typically being their home-town. Note that this skill decreases with experience rather than increasing; -5% per level. This is due to changes in that location and the character's memory. Revisiting frequently or revisiting for a long time adds +5% per week. Can also be used to track-down friends and acquaintances but requires two successful rolls (one to find them, the second to see if they remember/trust you).

Research: Training in the use of methods, techniques, and locations, for finding information, including computer networks, databases, libraries, computerized records/ encyclopedias, etc. This skill is helpful in locating information about people, places and things. The game master will ultimately regulate the availability of accessible, known information regarding a particular subject. In some cases, there may be a ton of history and information, while, in others, very little or nothing at all (which may reveal something by its sheer lack of info). The research skill simply gives characters access to available data. G.M. NOTE: A good rule of thumb is to let players investigate/research something as much as they want, but keep the game moving along. If no information is available, find out where they are conducting research and say something like "Despite the help of the clerk, and three hours of research, you still find nothing (or nothing unusual)." If the character(s) wishes to keep looking, let him, but quickly click off the hours; "Another hour and still nothing." If another player conducting research elsewhere says "What do I find out at the City County Building?" Make the answer a quick "Noting" or "Something quite surprising," and tell him (perhaps in private). Do not drag out the research aspect, but do consider a reasonable length of imaginary game time. Likewise, if the information is common knowledge or easy to locate, fast forward through what might be a couple of hours research, and tell the character what he has found. ANY CHARACTER CAN ASK QUESTIONS AND DO RESEARCH! However, the research skill will reduce the amount of time by half and the character is trained to notice relevant data that an untrained character is liable to overlook. Thus, for the truly mysterious, secret or difficult information, have the character with the research skill try to uncover it. Only roll to determine success on these difficult or hushed up bits of information, including addresses, unlisted telephone/computer network numbers, obscure and suppressed data. Also note that having the Streetwise skill is strongly recommended, as it puts the character in touch with the appropriate people (+15%). Base Skill: 35% + 5% per level of experience. Requires: Computer Operations and Literacy.

Right Brain Memory Techniques: The use of visualization to remember things. Can be used to cut the time it takes to memorize a new spell into 1/8 of its normal time, or just to memorize a list in a couple seconds. Base Skill: 20% + 5% per level of experience.

Rope Works: This is a skill that takes into account the various needs and uses of rope. The character knows a variety of ways to tie knots, the advantages to various types of ropes and cords, their tensile strength and how to weave/make rope. A failed roll to tie a knot means that it is loose and sloppy and easy to untie, slip out of, or likely to unravel or snap when strained. Base Skill: 30% + 5% per level of experience. Characters bound/tied by this character are -10% to escape/slip knots.

Sculpting & Whittling: The art of molding or carving a three dimensional figure, object or design out of clay, stone or wood. The percentile number indicates the quality of technique and appearance. Taking the skill twice indicates a professional quality and gets a bonus of +10%. Selecting it once, indicates a talented amateur. Base Skill: 30% + 5% per level of experience.

Study: This skill indicates a particular area of study for the character. This may be a great poet, writer, type of movie, great person, country/republic, team or organization that exists on records. Character will know numerous famous quotes, anecdotes, stories and myths about the person/place, will have read (or seen, listened to, as the case may be) analyzed and studied in great depth all available sources of information. The character will be able to speak intelligently about the area of study, offer his own theories/interpretations, quote the person accurately, and so on. Though not required, the Research skill is very helpful, and adds a one time bonus of +10% to the study skill. Base Skill: 36% + 4% per level of experience.

Surveying: The ability to use surveying equipment to take accurate sightings and measurements of land, for use in architectural designs or mapmaking. Basic and Advanced Mathematics are prerequisites. Bonuses: +10% to Navigation, and a +5% bonus to Optic Systems. Base Skill: 40% + 5% per level of experience.

Teaching: This training in the methods and practices of teaching/class room procedure; the disciplines of professional education, management of class rooms, instructional goals, discussion, lectures, conferences, group work, leadership, planning and evaluation. A Master's degree in the teaching arts is a requirement to teach professionally. Base Skill: 30% + 5% per level of experience.

Undersea Salvage: The character knows how to locate and identify objects (ship, armor, gold, etc.), recognize salvageable components and materials (valuable parts, electronic equipment, E-clips, weapons, coins, magic items, precious metals, and gems, etc.), retrieve (with minimal damage and effort), evaluate (estimate approximate resale value based on the item’s condition), clean/restore (restoration gets top salvage price), and sell salvaged underwater artifacts, equipment, parts and scrap metal. The salvage skill offers exploiting and capitalizing on some of the simple resources under the seas, including rudimentary mining, excavation, and gathering coral, rocks, seaweed sponges, clams, oysters and starfish. The character is also familiar with underwater cutting tools, cranes, pulleys, and tow lines, and can strip/cut apart and retrieve wreckage and machinery for use as scrap metal. Those with mechanical engineering can salvage working parts, make repairs on slightly damaged items, and even raise small sunken ships, and subs. Base Skill: 30% + 5% per level of experience; add a salvage bonus of +5% if the character has Mechanical Engineer.

Writing: The ability to write prose (stories), poems, or journalistically (articles, reports, news). Scholastic training indicates a professional quality, while the secondary skill indicates a talented amateur. A railed roll means an awkward and poorly written work that is boring and difficult to understand. Try again. Base Skill: 25% + 5% per level of experience. Requires: Literacy.