RAISING ATTRIBUTES

You must have an IC reason to raise attributes. Physical attributes can be raised by physical activity or powers use. Social attributes take a bit more explaining. Appearance can be raised by plastic surgery, powers use, physical activity (weight loss, but only if the char was overweight to start), hygiene (only at lower levels), etc., but Manipulation and Charisma are more difficult to explain, especially at the higher levels. Typically, increases will require examples of successful rolls and RP using those stats.

RAISING ABILITIES

To get a 1 in an non-restricted ability, you must simply show that you’ve been able to learn something about it. You may learn from a library, a PC, or by experimentation (if judgenoted, and if it’s not too obscure).

For 2’s and 3’s in most mundane abilities, you merely need to give examples of proficiency and wait a reasonable amount of time before requesting the next level. Use the XP room whenever possible. Non-mundane stats, obscure stats, or combat stats (awareness, intuition, demolitions, firearms etc.) will require more explanation and possibly judgenotes.

The following list may help you get a handle on what the level of abilities actually mean.

• Stat at 1: Novice/Had it in High School or Some College
• Stat at 2: You have a good feel for it/Bachelor’s Degree
• Stat at 3: You’re very good at it/Master’s Degree
• Stat at 4: You’re good enough at it to be arrogant/Doctorate
• Stat at 5: You’re exceptional at it/Doctorate, and top of your field.

RAISING POWERS

Some powers have waiting periods. Any restrictions or special guidelines for particular powers will be listed under ‘Guidelines’ on the navigation menu.

RAISING BACKGROUNDS

Many backgrounds will require storytelling or in some cases even special TPs. If you are interested in raising a background other than resources, get with your sphere staff. More information on raising resources can be found in the Business & Finance section of the House Rules.

RAISING OTHER MISC. STATS

Willpower: You’ll need to show evidence of successful WP rolls, have raised supporting stats, or show examples of judged character growth.

Virtues: You’ll need to show examples of successful rolls or situations.

Humanity: You’ll need to show examples of successful rolls or situations, and your sphere staff may be consulted at levels above 7.

RAISING STATS TO EXPERT/MASTER LEVELS

If you’ve got a 4 in a stat, it means you’re an expert. If you’ve got a 5, it means you’re a master… one of the best around. These things do not come overnight. If you’re trying to justify a stat increase from 3 to 4, be prepared to work for it. For example, if it’s a knowledge, let a staffer know you’re taking classes in that subject in school, have started studying with someone, or are researching it in some other way. If you’re trying to raise a physical stat, you’ll need some kind of exercise plan and inform a staffer when you start it.

4’s and 5’s won’t come easy. You may be required to obtain an IC instructor, a contact, retainer or mentor. In some cases, you may be required to make additional ability or attribute purchases before getting a stat at 4. For example, you’re not going to be able to buy Law at 4+ if you have an Intelligence of 1, or Athletics at 4+ if you have a Stamina of 1.

Common sense is going to be the biggest factor in whether or not your expenditure is approved. Make sure your expenditure makes sense, don’t try to power-game, and try to develop well-rounded characters.