New Traits

Parapsychology

Serious study in the field of parapsychology dates to the 1882 founding of the Society of Psychical Research in England. Such knowledge continues to be regarded with suspicion by the scientific community at large, but a few of its ideas, such as hypnotism have even managed to enter mainstream medicine. Basic experiments and theory concern one of two phenomenon: extrasensory perception or psychokinesis. For the theoretical student, parapsychology involves the search for evidence of the nature of psi phenomena, including non-sensory detection, influence of random events, after death existence and out-ofbody experiences. All too often, such studies are frustratingly inconclusive. For the real psychic, however, Parapsychology teaches one how to use his own powers. You should use Parapsychology rolls for psychic powers to maintain concentration, perform group effects and delve into the possibilities of what can theoretically be done with psychic energy. Maintaining concentration will sometimes require a Wits + Parapsychology roll. Working in conjunction with a group usually demands a Perception + Parapsychology roll. Use of Parapsychology with Paths is as indicated under the specific power in question.

• Student: This stuff is interesting, isn’t it?
•• College: You have spent time observing experiments in the field, or you have read many serious works on the subject.
••• Masters: You could even make a living by teaching or doing research.
•••• Doctorate: You engage in groundbreaking work such as that which created hypnotism.
••••• Scholar: If you aren’t already a psychic, you are getting close.

Possessed by: Parapsychologists, Psychics, Charlatans Specialties: ESP, Psychokinesis, Trances, Conjunctions

Guide
A mystical animal or minor spirit has chosen to help the sorcerer along her magical Path. Generally such entities are very interested in the welfare (or at least foibles) of humans but have some motive to attempt to encourage certain types of behavior in their sorcerer companions. Crafty, knowledgeable in magical concerns and possessed of inhuman senses, these beings have a lot to offer their patrons. Nothing is free, though, and this relationship is a two-way street. Guides expect special treatment, including food, shelter, friendship and even strange supernatural necessities. In return, guides can help a sorcerer learn mythic lore, gain new Paths or discover unseen things. Take the opportunity to create an interesting, unique creature who has reason to share your sorcerer’s fate and influence her behavior. X Get a pet.

• Weak guide — a talking, relatively non-combative animal with a few occult skills.
•• Minor guide — exceptionally bright small animal or spirit with detailed occult knowledge.
••• Apt guide — a large, intelligent animal or a smaller supernatural creature.
•••• Strong guide — an animal or spirit with a few magical abilities of its own.
••••• Powerful guide — a creature with magical talents, vast knowledge and probably a reputation.