OBSIDIAN LIVE ACTION ROLEPLAYING QUICKSTART

Humanity’s Last Stand Begins Here...

This Quickstart is a basic introduction to the Obsidian Live Action Role-Playing game produced by Twilight Games.
For more information, visit Twilight Games online at http://www.twilight-games.com.

Live Action Role Playing
Live Action Role-Playing (LARP) is a blend of
improvisational theatre and tabletop role-playing games.
Without the need for dice or a script, LARP has infinite
possibilities. LARP offers a variety of dramatic experiences
to participants, who bring fiction to life by acting out their
Characters in real time. One person, the Narrator, is
charged with the most difficult and yet most rewarding task
of the game: moving the Players through a tale of intrigue
and mystery, setting the pace of the story and resolving
any disputes regarding the rules. While the Narrator
constructs the story and referees the game, it is up to the
Players to create the action through development of their
Characters within the bounds of the story.
The World of Obsidian
Obsidian paints the bleakest of futures. Minions of Hell
have corrupted the Earth and, in this post-apocalyptic world,
humankind stands on the brink of extinction. Desperate for
survival, the remnants of Humanity have banded together to
rebuild and to fight back within the confines of a structure
called “The Zone.” The year is 2299.
History
For centuries, the Circles of Hell existed without paying
much attention to the Earth Plane. As humanity grew, so
did its corruption. The degradation of Humanity fed into the
Hell Circles, twisting them into the horrific landscapes that
exist to this day. As the power of the Daemonic Hordes
accumulated over the years, the Hordes waited impatiently
for their chance to cross into Humanity’s world. Some
humans also searched for the chance to bring Daemons to
the Earth Plane. As Kultists, these humans served the
Daemons’ will to further their own cryptic needs.
In December 2026, some Kultists succeeded in finding
a way to open Portals that connected Hell to Earth.
Waves of radiation and plague swept across the Earth.
Soon it was nothing more than a shattered Wasteland
infiltrated by the energies of Hell. Silesia, daemonic ruler
of the Circle of Torment, sabotaged Humanity’s weapons
and technology through Convokations and superior
knowledge of mechanics. Without the use of technology,
Humanity was rendered defenseless.
By 2070, it was estimated that approximately 95% of
Humanity was destroyed. The survivors in North America
were forced further and further east, until there was
nowhere left to go. Humanity gathered along the Eastern
Coast of the United States. Silesia, still in control of
Humanity’s technology, detonated nuclear bombs all over
the continent. The impact of the missiles, and their ensuing
radiation, destroyed everything that the energies of Hell had
not. Daemons and Humans alike perished in flames.
The Divinity, a mysterious entity of unknown intention,
granted the original Mystics their powers sometime within
the following year. These warriors trained others and
together they fought back against the Kultist and
Daemonic Hordes. Their rebellion began what is known
as the Divinity War. During the spring of 2082 construction
began on the Zone, the largest defensive fortification ever
built. Energy, indistinguishable from electricity, was created
by Mystic power. Materials to build the Zone were
gathered from the ruins of nearby cities.
The year 2144 marked a time of momentous change
for Humanity. The Age of the Corporation began with the
completion of the Zone and acceptance of the Unity’s
governance. Corporations filled the newly finished city
with every imaginable form of product and service. Law
patrolled the Sectors of the Zone, Credits and credbases
became standard, and citizens could rest somewhat
safely in their beds at night.
The Zone
Nearly 3 miles high and 22 miles in diameter, the Zone
is made up of 1280 stories above ground and 48 stories
underground. It is the largest structure ever built by
Humanity and stands as the last hope against the Circles

Credits
Written by Matt M. McElroy & Tony Pileri • Edited by Monica Valentinelli
Art, Photos, Additional Writing, Layout by Crystal Odenkirk (www.dragonrosecastle.net/crys)
Models: Greg Bach, Alysia Condon-Jacobs, Sara Drapp, Cliff Odenkirk Jr., Mike Stelgia
Disclaimer: This is a game. This is only a game. In the event discretion is advised. Obsidian is a trademark of Apophis
that this document was an actual handbook of eeeeevil and Consortium, used with permission. The Auction System and Twilight
damnation, the daemon you just summoned would already have Games are trademarks of Twilight Games. All rights reserved.
eaten your soul. Have a nice day. Everything within this document is © 2004 Twilight Games. This
Oh, our lawyers say that we also need to tell you this is fiction, document may only be printed for personal use. Reproduction in
for entertainment purposes only, and that any resemblance to any other manner without prior written consent of the publisher is
people, places or daemons is purely coincidental. The setting strictly prohibited, with the exceptions that Character sheets may be
contains supernatural elements and mature themes. Reader reproduced for personal use with the game.

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 OBSIDIAN LIVE ACTION ROLEPLAYING QUICKSTART
of Hell. The zone is built from reinforced steel and
concrete, and is armed with Class 4 & 5 Cannons.
Mystics used their rituals to protect the Zone from the
energies of Hell.
The Zone is divided into 80 Sectors, each capable of
producing its own power supply. Should the need arise,
each sector is self-sufficient should it be sealed off from
the rest of the Zone. Each Sector is divided into 4
Sublevels; each Sublevel is four stories high. Every
Sublevel has its own roadways, called Conduits, as well as
its own oxygen recycling factories and electrical
compounds. Sublevel 1 is home to corporate
headquarters, high profile entertainment, and Law offices.
The level appears as well-manicured as its residents.
Sublevel 2 is an upper-class residential district containing
markets, shops and smaller corporate offices. Sublevel 3
serves primarily as the entertainment district. It houses
restaurants, arenas, dance-clubs, salons, and other forms
of entertainment. On a typical day, this sublevel is usually
the most crowded. Sublevel 4 contains the Sector’s
sanitation, warehousing and processing plants.
The Unity
The governing body of the Zone, the Unity oversees all
operations and controls the Law. They are the highest
authority in the Zone and employ citizens for nearly every
imaginable task. The Unity controls both the vidscreen
and educational systems of the Zone as well as the
public transportation and janitorial staff.
The Citizens
Most Zone citizens live in apartments on either Sublevel 2
or 3. After completing the Unity-run schooling a citizen is
issued their own credbase with a list of achievements. To
earn income through conventional means, citizens typically
work for either the Unity or a Corporation.
Corporates: Desiring the trappings of an everyday life,
these Zone citizens work for one of the thousands of
Corporations that offer goods and services to the populace.
Kultists: Greed, Hate, Desire...for as long as
Humanity has existed, there have been those willing to
murder others for power. Kultists have dedicated
themselves to one of the Circles of Hell and its Daemons.
Machines: Cybernetically enhanced and dedicated to
finding the perfect union between man and machine,
these citizens are on the cutting edge of technology.
Mystics: Mystics, born with the ability to use Rituals
and chosen to battle the darkness, are the defenders of
Humanity and the scourge of Daemons.
The Corporations
For as long as man can remember, people have joined
groups that provide themselves with a peace of mind in
exchange for allegiance. Loyally working for a Corporation
is the surest way to ensure safety and financial stability
within the Zone. Hundreds of Corporations exist inside the
Zone. Some examples of Corporations are:
Information Bureaus: These groups scour the
Conduits, Sublevel Three, and other high-trafficked areas
to buy and sell valuable information.
Manufacturers: Producing a wide range of products
from cybernetics to pharmaceuticals, these groups employ
designers, laborers, R&D teams and promotional agents.
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Security Services: These Corporations provide both
muscle and protection to those that will pay their
exorbitant prices.
Couriers: When a citizen desires the speedy
transportation of their most, important items, these
Corporations pickup and deliver with no questions asked.
Entertainment: These highly-demanded Corporations
range anywhere from legal entities such as a theatre
production, to a seedy outfit such as a drug dealer or
arena fight producer.
Divinity War Corporations: These Corporations,
whether run by Mystics or Kultists, are embroiled in the
Divinity War in some fashion or another, and exist
primarily to help sway the battle in either direction.
Service Companies: Mechanical repair, janitorial,
Wasteland scavenging, catering, and datanet
maintenance are just a few of the types of service
companies within the Zone.
Progressive Technology
Due to massive breakthroughs in nearly every area of
technology, the inhabitants of the Zone enjoy a style of
luxury unheard of throughout history. The first cybernetics
were invented in 2234, merging man and machine to
increase both his senses and stamina. Computer nodes link
the entire Zone in a single Digital Network, which citizens
can access through personal computers called Credbases.
Digital commerce, electronic schooling, advanced
medicines, and high tech entertainment cover all the basic
needs and wants for the inhabitants inside the Zone.
The Law
Established in 2099, the Law is both a military and a
police force within the Zone. Not only does the Law
employ officers to patrol the Conduits, but they also
employ citizens, much like a Corporation, to perform
office duties. The Law enforces peace throughout the
Zone, aiding Mystics in their battle against Kultists and
Daemonic forces.
The Wastelands
The Wastelands, the land outside the Zone, reflect the
centuries-long war. Very little sunlight filters through the
bloody sky. Hell reigns in the Wastelands, molding the
Earth into a reflection of the individual Circles. Exile to the
Wastelands is considered a sentence worse than death.
Daemons and Hell
Hell is comprised of nine Circles, nine dimensions. As
perversion and corruption grew in the Earth Plane, black
energies flowed into Hell, transforming the inhabitants into
the stuff of nightmare. These minions are fighting for the
control of the Earth Plane. Their objectives come in many
forms; preservation, assimilation, destruction. Each Circle
has much to gain from controlling the Earth Plane, and each
Circle has much to lose if another Circle gains control of it.
The Circle of Under (Sacrifice): The Box of Under
has only manifested one type of Daemon, the
Legionnaire of Under. Cloaked and mysterious, these
minions haunt the Earth with fearsome powers.
The Circle of Avarice (Lust): The Daemons of Avarice take
forms compatible with their current needs. They will lie, cheat or
steal to gain power, but only if the risk is worth the reward.
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 OBSIDIAN LIVE ACTION ROLEPLAYING QUICKSTART
The Circle of Requiem (Murder): Taking the form of
Spirit, all Daemons of Requiem animate undead bodies,
becoming Zombies in service to the Kult of the Undead.
The Circle of Carnivoria (Depravity): Daemons of
this Circle are savage beasts, hunting and killing as
hunger dictates.
The Circle of Stimulus (Addiction): Those Daemons
normally manifesting from the Circle of Stimulus are
warped creations from cesspools within the Circle.
Pleasure, pain, and excess are the primary motivations of
these Daemons.
The Circle of Torment (Envy): Daemons of this Circle
resemble machinery in a vaguely human shape in an
effort to emulate that which they will never be.
The Circle of Azure Hyaline (Hate): Sent forth as
saviors and healers, the Daemons of the single
uncorrupted Circle seek out the Kultists of the Spiritual
Essence and Mystics in order to aid them in defending
Humanity. They struggle constantly against the
encroaching corruption of Hate. Should they fail, the
Circle of the Azure Hyaline will also fall into the
same damnation that has engulfed the
other eight Circles.
Creating a Character
In the bleak future, Character types
range from murdering Kultists to
the saviors of Humanity. Littered
between those two extremes exist
a multitude of citizens. The
possibilities for playing a Zone citizen
are endless: corporate employee,
religious leader, criminal, or entertainer.
The composition of the Character is
broken down into Ethos and Socials.
These elements, along with their
enhancements and details, will shape
the Character into a unified whole.
Ethos
Your Character’s Ethos is
the primary “classification”
or “calling” for that
Character. Whether that
is Corporate, Kultist,
Machine or Mystic each
Ethos defines the basic
background concept for
that Character. Each
Character has hundreds
of possibilities beyond
their basic Ethos, and
should be further
developed through their
unique history,
personality, and goals.
Players choose one
Ethos during Character
Creation. Primary
motivations are given for all
Ethos. Secondary motivations
are at the discretion of the Player.
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Character Creation Checklist:
• Choose an Ethos
• Choose a Social
• Assign Attributes & Skills
• Determine Essence & Spirit
• Choose Enhancements
• Spend Generation Points
• Spend Credits/Character Details
(Equipment, Weapons)
Corporate
Motivation: Loyally Serve Your Corporation
While many Zone citizens occupy their time with
enhancing their humanity through the occult or
cybernetics, others exist to find power through more
practical means. Corporations demand obedience and
hard work, advancing those who are successful while
sweeping aside the weak. In return for devoting
themselves entirely to the goals of the corporation, loyal
employees gain substantial perks including; information,
technology, fame, and fortune.
General Appearance: The Corporate Character’s
appearance is dependent on what function they serve
within the Zone. Most Corporates incorporate elements of
the stylish and practical into their daily ensembles.
Accessories such as datapads, vid-phones, and
credbases are in high demand. Thus, pocketed trench-
coats are favored among the savvy Corporate.
Kultist
Kultists are humans who have dedicated themselves to
an individual Circle of Hell, serving its Daemons to further
the Circle’s aims on the Earth Plane. Capturing Spirit
allows these humans to utilize powers taught by those
Daemons. These powers are called “Convokations.”
As each Ethos has its motivation, so do the individual
Kults. Each motivation inspires the Kultist to act in a
manner that feeds the energies of Hell. However, not all
Kultists are evil.
Citizens of the Zone hate and fear all Kultists save one
group, the Kultists of the Spiritual Essence. These Kultists
represent the Azure Hyaline Circle. This Circle and its
inhabitants have resisted the corruption that has infected
the other Circles. They stand shoulder to shoulder with
the Mystics to fight Daemons and Kultists alike.
The Box of Under
Motivation: The Will of the Box, as revealed in your
visions, is your only command.
Circle: Under – fueled by Sacrifice
Daemon in Control: Unknown
Kult Blade: Ring Blade
Councilors, seers, prophets…madmen…these
enigmatic Kultists are among the most mysterious and
feared beings in the Zone. Serving no known Daemon,
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 OBSIDIAN LIVE ACTION ROLEPLAYING QUICKSTART
the Kultists of Under serve something called “The Box.”
The Box is more akin to a force of nature than a single
creature. Gifting its minions with visions of the past and
future, the “Will of the Box” is what guides these Kultists
down a dark path of insight and sacrifice.
Members of this Kult can be found acting as advisors,
historians and occultists. Some members of the Box of
Under can even be found in the entourage of powerful
Mystics or other Kultists, influencing events through advice
and cryptic prophecy. Other Box of Under members work
as investigators or contractors. Using their eerie powers,
they hunt down information, items or victims for a fee.
All Box of Under are eventually gifted with a
Dominesymbolis, a symbol from the Box, which is often
used to channel their dark powers. This seal varies from
Kultist to Kultist. Marking their unique symbol in blood,
demonstrates the Kultist’s devotion to the Will of the Box.
General Appearance: Most Box of Under Kultists are
shrouded in mystery. Their enigmatic nature is enhanced
through cloaks, robes and masks. All of them are scarred,
showing signs of self-mutilation in an effort to better
understand their place in the scheme of the Box. Many of
them seem to fade from sight, observing those around
them instead of garnering attention to themselves.
Note: Prophecy is not an exact science. The Will of the
Box is not set in stone. Narrators and Players should not
be railroaded into any strict set of actions regardless of
the use of Convokations, nor should Players expect
precise answers from their visions.
Kult of the Chemical
Motivation: To indulge yourself in any excess is the
purest glory. Everyone should know your bliss.
Circle: Stimulus, fueled by Addiction
Daemon in Control: Many (Dermant, Signant, Xerxant,
and Ledgant)
Kult Blade: Resin Dagger
Infecting all levels of Zone society, the Kult of the
Chemical is made up of drug dealers, scientists,
entertainers, and burn-outs. Each and every Chemicalist
has some form of addiction. Carnal pleasures, alcohol,
drugs or the next, new rush may be the focal point for
these Kultists. These addictions often drive the Kultist to
seek out others in the Zone who can either supply them
with their fix or join them in their debauchery.
The Kult of the Chemical is devoted to several powerful
Daemons instead of one overlord. Some of the Daemons
include Dermant “Lord of Ulva,” Signant “Devourer of the
Spirit,” Xerxant “The Peasant” and Ledgant “The Untamed.”
In addition to these four, there are many other Daemons
striving for the power and opportunities of becoming the fifth
Divinity of Stimulus. The Kultists follow one of these Lords,
dedicating themselves to that particular Daemon’s cause.
They will tolerate Kultists who serve another master, but
usually stick with others in their “Brood” of addiction.
Broods act as a “family unit” for the Chemicalists. They
are collectives of like-minded Kultists, serving the same
Lord, sharing resources and often sharing similar
addictions. Dealing with one Chemicalist often means
dealing with the entire Brood in one way or another.
General Appearance: A Chemicalist appears according
to the extreme state of their most current addiction. Since
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addictions range from drugs to physical sensations, their
haggard appearances range as well. They are often found
in whatever clothing suits their profession in the Zone. As
entertainers, they wear the latest fashions, scientists wear
lab coats and goggles, etc.
Kult of the Internal
Motivation: You were born to control. Obey only Ighalli
and your House. No other commands you.
Circle: Avarice – fueled by Lust
Daemon in Control: Ighalli
Kult Blade: Large Razor-sharp Klaive
Claiming to have origins dating back ten thousand
years, the Kult of the Internal will do anything to fulfill its
goals. Power, wealth, eternal life, and a number of base
desires fuel their need for complete control. Their need
to dominate overcomes their need to work with each
other. Oft times these Kultists may be found working
independently. They have been known to kill fellow
Internalists that stand in their way.
Within the Zone, the Kult of the Internal may be found in
every aspect of daily life. Infiltrating corporations, religious
orders and other organizations, the Internalists gain power
through manipulation and bribery. Internalists gather in
Houses. These gatherings of like-minded Kultists that work
towards similar goals offer different benefits, depending
upon the House. Each House is highly structured in rank
and is ruled by a council of Lords. For as long as the Kult
of the Internal has existed, they have nurtured a deep
and unending hatred for the Kult of the Spiritual Essence.
General Appearance: Often both wealthy and
influential, Internalists equip themselves accordingly.
Expensive suits, rare or hard-to-find artifacts and tomes,
the latest and most fashionable vehicles, weapons and
technology are usually theirs to display.
Kult of the Lost
Motivation: You are the ultimate predator. Others are
prey. Strength is everything and by conquering others,
you become stronger
Circle: Carnivoria – fueled by Depravity
Daemon in Control: Abaddon
Kult Blade: An Imposing Sword
Savage warriors and deadly hunters, the Kult of the Lost
honor strength and punish weakness. “Survival of the
fittest” is a way of life for the Kult of the Lost and their kin.
Some Lost Kultists gather in small packs, rearing their young
or hunting more deadly foes. These packs are led by the
strongest among them, usually decided through ritual combat.
Most members of the Lost, however, prefer to remain solitary
hunters, relying only on themselves for protection.
General Appearance: Most Kultists of the Lost wear
whatever clothing and armor will be of use to them during
combat or while hunting. Many of them seem to be on the
verge of violence, even when calm. They often stalk the
perimeter of the room or area they occupy, sizing up
opponents and eventual victims.
Kult of the Machine
Motivation: Man is frail, imperfect. Only by merging yourself
with the will of Silesia can you achieve perfection.
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 OBSIDIAN LIVE ACTION ROLEPLAYING QUICKSTART
Circle: Torment – fueled by Envy
Daemon in Control: Silesia
Kult Blade: Circuit Blade
Methodical and highly productive, the Kultists of the
Machine are dedicated to the advancement of technology.
Many of them work in corporations developing new
weapons, cybernetics and computers. As they seek the
perfection of machinelike efficiency, they begin to sacrifice
that which makes them Human. Spirit drains slowly away
as they advance along the path of Torment.
Many of the Kult of Machine sell their services to
corporations involved with science and technology. They
become experts in their chosen field, helping to advance
Humanity’s dependence on machinery once again. Other
members of this Kult sell their services as contractors or
bodyguards, blending their technological knowledge with
deadly Convokations to better serve their masters.
General Appearance: Often more machine than man,
these Kultists often lack emotion and seem cold or cruel
to others. Some carry tools of the trade, others try to
blend in with the corporate society of the Zone.
Kult of the Undead
Motivation: You view death to be rebirth. Your actions will open
the way for Hazlia’s armies. Every death is a new opportunity.
Circle: Requiem – fueled by Murder
Daemon in Control: Hazlia
Kult Blade: Sharpened Bone Shiv
Among the most reviled and feared of all the Kults, the
Undead are mostly found in the dank shadows of the
Zone. They haunt rundown warehouses, back alleys and
other places touched by death. Their zombie minions
remind others of their fragile hold on life and the potential
servitude of inhuman monsters.
Some members of the Kult of the Undead can
occasionally be found in morgues, hospitals or medical
research centers, studying human physiology and
gathering raw materials. These Kultists are usually
connected to others, hidden away in order to build their
army of zombies through the use of Convokations.
General Appearance: With pale, dry skin and vacant eyes,
the Kult of the Undead can sometimes appear as lifeless as
their minions. Some adorn themselves in dark robes,
preaching the words of Hazlia. Others wear smocks, and still
others functional gear for constructing their undead minions.
Spiritual Essence
Motivation: Anger, corruption, and hate are your enemies. Do
not hate the other Kultists. Pity them, even as you destroy them
Circle: Azure Hyaline – fighting against Hate
Daemon in Control: Shepherds
Kult Blade: Crystal Dagger
Standing vigilant against the other Kultists and their
masters for thousands of years, the members of the
Spiritual Essence remain the only uncorrupted Kult.
Finding allies among the Mystics, together they strive to
combat the forces of Hell. Fighting against
insurmountable odds takes its toll on these Kultists, as
they struggle to maintain the balance between warrior
and teacher. While the fight appears hopeless, the Kult
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of the Spiritual Essence finds friends in many, different
places. Members of the Spiritual Essence may find allies
within both religious and corporate settings.
Well-respected within the Zone, members of the
Spiritual Essence are easily recognized by their
inspirational crystal blade.
General Appearance: Often appearing clean and well kept,
the members of this Kult appear to portray their ideals through
their appearance as well as through their righteous actions.
Machine
Motivation: Only through technology will you achieve perfection.
In a time when Daemons and their minions hunt down
men, many of Humankind’s own choose to enhance their
bodies to face the powers surrounding them. Not every
person with Cybernetics is of this Ethos. Those who
believe Humanity is a small price for power, and those
with a true fascination for the merging of the body and
technology are those who call themselves “Machine.”
The more cybernetics a human purchases, the more a
human loses their Spirit. As Humanity dissolves, a
Machine Ethos loses the intensity of their emotions and
feelings of kinship with Humanity. The Character
continues to embellish their cybernetics, becoming awe-
inspiring in personal power.
Cyborgs may be found everywhere in the Zone. They
may perform manual labor jobs like construction or
perform superhuman feats similar to the elite of the
Coliseum fighters. Many find positions as bodyguards or
mechanics within technology-related corporations.
General Appearance: Machines dress according to
the demands of their profession. Others enjoy wearing
revealing clothing that shows off their latest upgrade.
Mystic
Mystics are humans that are chosen or born with the
ability to use Rituals. Descended from the original
Mystics chosen to fight the darkness, they are the
defenders of Humanity and the scourge of Daemons. As
Mystics, they enforce “The Code of Humanity” which
states that Humanity must be protected at all costs. It
also states that Mystics must act righteously or else they
will suffer dire consequences. Two “paths” of Mystics
have developed over the years, each specializing in its
method of fighting the Divinity War.
The Path of Alter
Motivation: Destroy the Kultist Society
Those of the Path of Alter believe that the Code is very
accurate in stating the Mystics must wield a sword of
righteousness. Brandishing weapons and whatever means
necessary to eradicate Hell, the Path of Alter calls for a
decisive militant strike against all Kultists and their daemonic
masters. By killing those who damn Spirits through the
action of Call, Alters reason that Hell would lose the ability to
gain power. Some Alters are brutal in their fight against Hell,
acting as savage warriors. Others are subversive, using
stealth and cunning to destroy their enemies.
General Appearance: Most Alters prefer survival outfits
and gear. Considering the nature of their chosen path,
almost all of them invest in some form of armor. Alters may
be found on all Sublevels. Some mingle among the elite
Corporations. Still others conspire in the darkest of alleys.
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The Path of Vision
Motivation: Defend Humanity from Hell
Finding that enlightenment and protection can be
taught to anyone, the Path of Vision believes that a
staunch defense and a well-prepared mind is the best
action against Hell. To this end, the Path of Vision learns
Rituals to bring succor and peace. These Rituals also
illuminate Conflicts in a Visionary’s surroundings.
At first glance the Visionaries appear to be peaceful or
benign. In reality, they are quite intrusive and
manipulative. Those of this belief learn how to deflect the
attacks of those who wish them harm, and many have
perfected their minds and bodies to this end. Visionaries
are often sought for advice or obscure knowledge, as
well as protection when raiding Kultists’ compounds.
Unlike their Alter counterparts, the Visionary can be
trusted to execute exactly the proper amount of force to
contain or eradicate the immediate threat. Often found in the
employ of corporations or even working with the Law, the
Visionary is an excellent bodyguard as well as advisor.
General Appearance: From the offices of powerful
Corporations to religious gatherings to Law precincts,
Visionaries may be found nearly anywhere in the Zone.
They tend to dress in whatever fits the situation. Many
Visionaries have stylish, yet protective robes.
Socials
A Character’s Social is her day-to-day occupation as a
citizen of the Zone. A Character’s Social determines which
skills they cultivate during their lifetime in the Zone, along
with the social connections they may forge. The Social may
give a Character a social standing, additional resources or
skills, or, in some cases, the ability to garner contacts.
All Players select one Social during Character Creation.
Common Socials are available to all beginning Characters,
and represent the normal social niches any citizen of the
Zone may fall into. Due to the unique nature of Mystics
and Kultists, some Socials are exclusive to that Ethos.
Common Socials
May be selected by any Ethos
Contractor: The Contractor is a hired gun, a
professional assassin required to obtain an Assassin’s
License. While it is exceptionally dangerous work, the
professional assassin can expect to make a great deal of
money in just a few years, if they survive. People of all
kinds become Contractors, from sword-wielding Kultists
to gun-toting Machines.
CyberFix: The CyberFix is a master of installing and
repairing cybernetics. Part medic, part technophile, these
specialists are in high demand for their skills. Some
CyberFixers are cybernetic users themselves, having
honed their skills primarily for their own work. Others are
merely Corporate technicians who install the mechanical
bio-ware into paying customers.
Executive: A common Social for Corporates, the
Executive is a company man born to loyally serve his
Corporation in return for wealth and status. This
Character does what he is told without question of ethics
or morality. In return for working with influential
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Corporations, the Executive receives handsome pay and
deluxe accommodations.
Investigator: Investigators make their living seeking out
hidden or lost knowledge, often prying into the personal
lives or business affairs of other citizens. Information is
sold at a premium, and those willing to ply this otherwise
unsavory trade can stand to make a substantial amount
of money on short notice. As easily as they are able to
procure finances through their trade, Investigators also
may acquire enemies.
Scavenger: Scavengers scour the Zone for lost technology
and cast-off equipment. To earn their living, they repair,
recharge, and resell found bits of hidden treasure.
Occasionally, Scavengers strike it rich discovering ancient
artifacts or forgotten lore. Some Scavengers will, on
occasion, ‘find’ loot by stealing it from others.
Scener: Sceners are the social elite. Frequenting
exclusive clubs to network with the Zone’s VIPs, Sceners
trade favors and fashion tips. Backgrounds for Scener
Characters range from artists to business managers.
Sceners trust their reputations to get them into the best
locations and out of trouble when necessary.
Street: The lowest rung of the social ladder, Street are
rarely noticed and almost never acknowledged by their
‘betters’. As such, they learn a great deal of useful
information when others do not notice them listening.
Many of these Characters are homeless or wanted by the
Law. Those who live on the street tend to band together
when facing persecution from the higher classes.
Suit: The Suit is a consummate professional at whatever
they do. Most Suits work for Corporations, though many
are independent operators and entrepreneurs. Their
business expertise and keen social skills make them
popular employees. Savvy Characters would be well-
advised not to get in the Suit’s way.
Mystic Socials
May only be selected by Mystic Ethos Characters.
Crusader: Common among the Alters, a Crusader is
dedicated to systematically hunting down and destroying all
Kult activity. Crusaders are often blunt and straightforward in
carrying out their duties, and are willing to make sacrifices
for the greater good. Part bloodhound and part soldier, the
Crusader is fanatical in his hunt for Kultists.
Protectorate: One of the oldest Mystic positions, the
Protectorate is concerned with molding Humanity into an
ordered society capable of holding off the daemonic
forces outside the Zone. By monitoring the masses for
signs of daemonic taint, supervising the activities of
Corporations, and upholding the laws of the Unity, these
Mystics protect humanity from its own worst instincts.
Spiritman: Considered the most ‘enlightened’ Mystics, Spiritmen
seek to understand the will of the Divinity and to preach salvation
to the masses. By bringing hope, wisdom, and faith to all who will
listen, they strengthen the Spirit of humankind.
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Kultist Socials
May only be selected by Kult Ethos Characters.
Occultist: The most common Kult social, the Occultist
carefully balances his lust for power and forbidden
knowledge with his need for secrecy. Both a scholar and
a fanatic, the Occultist is determined to uncover the
secrets of Hell and the Circle he has dedicated himself
to. The Occultist pursues forgotten lore and hidden
secrets. She makes deals with dark forces and takes by
guile that which suits her needs.
Heathen: Most Kultists operate in small groups,
protecting and aiding each other’s infernal activities. The
Heathen has broken away from this haven. Instead, the
independent Heathen places his trust in the safety of
solitude and anonymity. Heathens pass themselves off as
an ordinary Zone citizen, using Convokations only when
necessary. Shunning other Kultists and any traces of
Daemonic taint, Heathens do whatever they can to avoid
the detection of Mystics.
Attributes and Skills
An Obsidian Character’s capabilities are defined by two
basic components, their Attributes and Skills. Attributes
are a measure of the Character’s natural aptitudes in six
broad categories: Dexterity, Strength, Mechanical,
Knowledge, Perception, and Mind. The level of a
Character’s aptitude in these innate qualities is
represented by a attribute rating, a number between one
and five. One represents the lowest natural ability and
five represents the highest.
Skills are trained abilities that the Character has
acquired over their lifetime. These abilities are the
refinements of a Character’s natural aptitude.
All Characters have one free point in each Attribute at
Character Creation. To raise an Attribute higher or to
purchase a skill, Players must spend Generation Points.
Dexterity
Dexterity is an attribute that acts as a measure of the
Character’s basic hand-to-eye coordination, balance, and
physical control. Dexterity is most often used in Combat
Conflicts, or in any test which requires delicate
manipulation or coordination.
Agility: Agility represents training in a variety of
acrobatics and balance exercises. This skill is utilized in
such actions as crossing difficult terrain, throwing small
items accurately, or dodging physical threats.
Fighting: The Fighting skill represents unarmed combat
training. It may cover anything from basic boxing or
street-fighting techniques to a command of complicated
and exacting martial arts.
Firearms: Firearms represents skill in the use of guns. It is
utilized whenever a Character attempts to hit a target with a
conventional projectile weapon. This skill covers all firearms,
from holdout pistols to Class-Three vehicle-stoppers.
Melee: Melee is used whenever a Character attempts to
strike or parry with a hand-held weapon. The Melee skill
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covers a variety of different weapons, from precision
knife fighting to crushing blows with heavy clubs.
Stealth: Stealth is the art of moving silently and unseen,
and is generally used when a Character is trying to stalk
a target or escape quietly from a dangerous area. This
skill may also be used when a Character is attempting
actions they wish to hide, such as pick-pocketing or
silently drawing a weapon.
Strength
The Strength attribute is a measure of the Character’s
raw physical power and constitution. Strength is used in
Conflicts related to resisting damage, wrestling with an
opponent, or lifting heavy equipment.
Grapple: Grapple is used when a Character is trying to
maintain a grip on something or someone. This skill is
used a variety of situations, from climbing a building to
attempting to hold a captured opponent.
Immunity: The Immunity skill is a measure of the
Character’s ability to fight off the effects of disease and
intoxication. It can also be used to resist the effects of
poisons and addictive substances.
Lift: The Lift skill is used for specific situations. It is
utilized when a Character attempts to lift, move, or carry
something heavy and awkward.
Stamina: Stamina may be tested when a Character is
doing something physically repetitive or demanding over
long periods of time. This skill can also be used to
overcome the effects of blood-loss due to extensive
injuries or sleep deprivation.
Mechanical
The Mechanical attribute represents the Character’s
familiarity with machines and mechanical processes. This
attribute is used whenever a Character is physically
handling machinery.
Cybernetics: The Cybernetics skill is used when a
Character attempts to install, repair, or recharge
cybernetic implants. Repairing someone else’s
cybernetics is also covered by this skill. Certain uses of
cybernetics may also require a Cybernetics Conflict.
Occasionally, a Cybernetics Conflict may be
accompanied by a Medical Conflict in cases when the
cybernetic implant is already integrated with a living host.
Drive: The Drive skill represents the Character’s ability to
operate moving vehicles, from small cycles to heavy-
treaded transports.
Repair: The Repair skill is utilized whenever a Character
seeks to correct or modify malfunctioning equipment. It can
also be used when a Character is attempting to redesign
machinery or build a piece of equipment on the fly.
Sabotage: The Sabotage skill is used when a Character is
trying to either arm or disarm explosives. It may also be used
when a Character is attempting to bypass security equipment.
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Knowledge
Knowledge covers learning and expertise in a variety of
useful subjects. The Knowledge attribute is used
whenever a Character is aiming to verify facts,
manipulate data, or answer difficult questions.
Data: The Data skill represents the Character’s familiarity
with the Zone’s central computer by performing various
functions on the database. Personal, public, and corporate
information may be found on the central computer.
Medical: Medical knowledge involves an understanding of
the human body. This skill is used to diagnose disease, treat
wounds, and prepare for the installation of cybernetics.
Occult: The Occult skill represents knowledge of the
spiritual world. Occult comprehension ranges from the
dark secrets of Hell to the sublime Mystic wisdom. Occult
knowledge can help a Character identify the effects of a
Convokation or Ritual, or lend some insight into the
capabilities of daemonic creatures.
Science: The Science skill covers a strong background
in academic studies. A Character with this skill has
received an education in such d+iverse subjects as;
biology, physics, archaeology, sociology, and
engineering. Conflicts that require academic knowledge,
rather than a specialized area such as Medical or Occult,
are covered by this skill.
sense that operates as a subtle warning made manifest by
cold chills, hair standing on end, or even basic paranoia.
Subterfuge: Subterfuge represents a Character’s ability to
warp the perceptions of others, hide their own motives and
lie convincingly. This skill may also be used for actions
such as hiding secret entrances or camouflaging traps.
Mind
The Mind attribute is a measure of a Character’s mental
acumen, ability to reason, and control over their
emotions. Mind covers tests related to concentration,
social interaction, or the defense from mental attacks.
Creativity: Creativity refers to a Character’s artistic
abilities. This skill is used whenever a Character is
creating a work of art. Works of art may include;
sculpture, painting, writing, music, etc.
Focus: Focus is a measure of a Character’s willpower. A
strong willpower shields a Character from psychic attacks
and intrusions. This skill is used by Mystics to attune
themselves to the energy of the Earth realm, allowing
them to recharge their Rituals.

Streetwise: Streetwise represents the Character’s

familiarity with the culture and people of the Zone. This
skill is useful when a Character needs to locate people
and/or places. It may also assist a Character
searching for potentially illegal items and activities,
while simultaneously avoiding trouble with the Law.

Perception
Perception is a measure of the awareness of a
Character. It also governs how well they notice the
slight nuances in their surroundings. The Perception
attribute is utilized when a Character is looking for
minute details, studying a situation or area, or actively
seeking things that might be ‘out of place’.

Analyze: The Analyze skill represents the Character’s

aptitude to use quick deductive reasoning. It may be used to
Conflict a person’s Subterfuge skill by looking for clues that
a Character is lying. It may also be used to study a combat
situation to find weaknesses in an opponent’s tactics.

Search: Search is used when a Character is looking for

a misplaced or intentionally hidden item. This skill also
represents a Character’s vigilance to their surroundings,
allowing them to pick up on details that may indicate
approaching danger. Search is often used to contest
Stealth Conflicts.

Sensitivity: Sensitivity is a measure of a Character’s

awareness of the supernatural energy around them,
allowing them to sense wandering spirits, dimensional
manifestations, and the lingering effects of Rituals and
Convokations. In many ways, this skill is akin to a sixth

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 OBSIDIAN LIVE ACTION ROLEPLAYING QUICKSTART
Insight: Insight is used to reflect the Character’s
common sense. A Character presented with either
incomplete information or a difficult problem may use this
skill to arrive at a satisfying conclusion.
Manipulation: Characters use Manipulation when
attempting to convince someone to do something they
wouldn’t normally want to do. This skill may cover items
like diplomacy, intimidation, or business negotiation.
Restraint: Restraint is a measure of a Character’s self
control and ability to resist temptation. This skill also acts
as a reflection of a Character’s ability to maintain calm
under pressure. Restraint is often used to contest mind
control and Manipulation Conflicts.
Essence
Characters in Obsidian face a multitude of dangers.
Death is only a single misstep away. In the Zone, combat
and disease take a daily heavy toll on humanity.
Each Obsidian Character has a general measure of
health, known as Essence, which represents the amount
of physical damage their body can absorb before falling
into the oblivion of death. Essence consists of two
numbers; an Essence Rating, and an Essence Pool. The
Essence Rating represents a Character’s normal health
devoid of injury. The Essence Pool represents a
Character’s current level of health.
To protect themselves from injury, most Zone citizens
choose not to rely solely on the fortitude of their own
bodies. Anyone whose line of work puts them in the face
of danger invests in armor.
As a Character receives damage inflicted by a variety
of sources, the Player must temporarily remove points
from their Character’s Essence Pool to represent the
injuries sustained. Damage a Character receives is
otherwise known as Penance. If a Character sustains
Penance greater than their Essence Pool, they die and
emerge as a Wandering Spirit. Beginning Characters
start with four levels of Essence. Spending Generation
points may increase this number.
Healing
When a Character has sustained injury, they have the
option of waiting for the body to heal itself. Characters may
choose to allow nature to run its course in order to save
time and money. The human body can, given time, repair
most injuries itself. An injured Character may, with adequate
rest and basic first aid, heal back one health level every
twenty-four hour period. Unless the Narrator breaks a story
session into days, Characters may restore one health level
at the beginning of each game session. The Narrator may
exercise his option to restore more levels, if appropriate.
Besides natural healing, injured Characters are able to
restore Essence through a variety of sources. Characters
may attempt to restore Essence by bidding an Unopposed
Knowledge/Medical Conflict. The base difficulty rating for
this Conflict is three plus the number of Essence points the
Character is attempting to restore. The Narrator may
increase this difficulty if circumstances warrant it. Other
types of equipment, such as a Med-Kit, grant additional
bids that may be utilized during this Conflict.
Other forms of healing include various Rituals and
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Convokations, which automatically restore a number of
Essence points when used successfully. Any such
application of these Rituals or Convokations is
considered to stabilize a patient who is bleeding to death.
For those Characters who are able to pay for medical
attention, they may do so at a variety of hospitals and
clinics located throughout the Zone.
Spirit
All Characters in Obsidian possess Spirit. Spirit is a
measure of a Character’s their personal zeal and will to
live. Spirit is the animating force of body and mind, the
soul seeking Transcendence from the mortal world. The
Lords of the various Circles covet Spirit. Kultists obtain
Spirit to give to the Lords and to fuel their unholy
Convokations. Untainted Spirit keeps a Character alive.
As a Character’s Spirit falls, the Character slips closer
towards spiritual oblivion.
A Character’s Spirit is comprised of two numbers; a
permanent Spirit Rating and an evolving Spirit Pool. The
Spirit Rating is a measure of the overall strength of a
Character’s Spirit. The Spirit Pool is a measure of how
much Spiritual energy a Character’s soul currently
possesses. Beginning Characters start with a Spirit
Rating of four. A Player may modify this number by
spending Generation Points. Kultists, in order to prove
allegiance to their Circle Lords, begin with three.
Character Enhancements
Enhancements are defined by a Character’s Ethos.
Each Ethos has a set of advantages that Characters may
use to further their goals and motivations. Whether it is a
Corporate using his Connections to dig up sensitive
information on a rival, or a member of the Kult of the
Undead using Reanimate upon a fresh corpse,
Enhancements give a Character power.
Players choose Enhancements based on their Character’s
Ethos. Each Character may select two Level One
Enhancements or one Level Two Enhancement.
Enhancements are chosen at Character creation. Players
may purchase more Enhancements by spending Generation
Points. Further levels of Enhancements may be acquired
through Experience Points as the Story progresses.
A different form of power that is appropriate to each
Ethos fuels their Enhancements. Corporate Characters
gain Clout within their corporation, Kultists steal Spirit,
Mystics meditate for Energy, and Machines plug in to
recharge their Pulse. At Character creation, each
Character starts with four points of their particular power.
Corporate Assets
Corporate Characters dedicate themselves to their
company and advance in rank over time. Each Corporate
may call upon Assets to aid in their efforts throughout the
Zone. An asset is a good or service produced by a
Character’s Corporation. Assets may also be acquired
through shady deals, blackmail and favors.
Pay Advance: Occasionally, a successful Corporate may
ask for his salary (1,000 credits) up front for an operation
in order to cover his personal expenses. This quick
infusion of credits gives the Corporate the ability to make
or break a business deal.
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Level: One
Duration: Instant
Cost: One Clout
Street Rumors: The first line of information available to a
corporation comes from the bits of news and gossip
picked up by its day to day clients. In the course of
business, Corporations hear a lot of news about their
customer’s work, technology needs, competitor’s prices,
etc. Picking through these rumors helps keep the
corporate aware of important events in their sublevel.
Level: One
Duration: Instant (Once contact is made)
Cost: One Clout
Field Gear: A Character caught in the field without the
right accessories can translate to a substantial loss of
profits or worse. Using this level of assets allows the
Corporate to borrow basic equipment necessary to do
their job. This may include anything from a spare
Datapad to a new business outfit appropriate for meeting
an influential client.
Level: One
Duration: One Day
Cost: One Clout
Non-Disclosure: When an employee is successful, their
Corporation acts to protect them. In the Zone, scandals
are not good for business. Should an employee perform a
slight indiscretion, the Corporation may step in to cover
things up. Corporate legal staffs help quell charges, while
public relations experts spin the incidents to an employee’s
favor for the local press. There are limits to what a
Corporation will cover but, in many situations, corporate
loyalty is enough to gloss over personal weaknesses.
Level: Two
Duration: One Scene
Cost: Two Clout
Influential Clients: Special relationships form between a
Corporation and their most important customers for the
benefit of both. Such clients demand special rates and
services for their patronage, and reward such
considerations with their own perks. Knowing an
important client may allow an employee access to a
fashionable club, lunch reservations with elusive people,
membership to a exclusive organization, etc.
Level: Two
Duration: One Scene
Cost: Two Clout
Information Broker: Ambitious corporations are aware
that useful business information does not always come
from internal sources. In some case, a specialist is
needed. Corporations with the proper means maintain
relationships with successful information brokers. Having
access to this source grants the Corporation information
beyond the scope of the Corporation itself. Given
sufficient time and resources, an information broker may
track down evasive individuals, monitor the business
dealings of other corporations, and even offer political
insight on affairs within their Sector.
Level: Three
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Duration: One Scene
Cost: Three Clout
Kultist Convokations
Through the power of their Daemon masters, Kultists
have been granted the unholy might of Convokations.
Each Convokation requires the Kultist to use a portion of
Spirit to manifest its power. Kultists hunt their fellow men,
stealing souls and offering them up to their masters.
Calling: Calling is used whenever a Kultist attempts to
capture the Spirit of the recently deceased. The Kultist
combines the Call Skill with their Knowledge Attribute to
enter a Conflict against the current Spirit Rating of their
victim. The Kultist must either stab the deceased with
their Kult Blade or have physical contact with the corpse.
Should the Kultist win the Conflict, the Kultists drains the
victim’s Spirit into their Kult Blade. Once their Blade has
Spirit, they may use it to fuel their Convokations.
At Character creation, all Kultists start with one point of
this Skill. By spending Generation Points, more of this
skill may be purchased.
Box of Under Convokations
Disturbance: (Silent alarm from the Kultist’s Seal) This
Convokation allows the Kultist to set Seal with a silent
alarm. Any disturbance or movement around the
Dominesymbolis is felt by the Kultist by instinct, some
feel a tremble in their hands, others a sound. This alarm
lasts for one day before needing to be reset.
Range: Dominesymbolis
Cost: 1 Spirit Point
Duration: 24 hours
Empty: While wearing a hooded cloak or helmet, the
Kultist’s face cannot be seen through the murky shadows
created by this Convokation. In place of facial features,
all that is visible is a swirling void of darkness. Even in
direct light, the Kultist is shrouded by the near liquid
opaqueness that covers his face. This effect lasts until
the Kultist pulls down his hood or removes his helmet.
No essence is lost while enacting this Convokation.
Level: One
Range: Self
Duration: 24 Hours
Attribute: Perception
Cost: 1 Spirit Point
Missive: With this Convokation, the Kultist may
communicate with those within earshot of one of their
Seals. The Kultist must speak aloud while concentrating
on their Seal. Those on the other end who wish to
communicate must also speak loudly and clearly. Should
those standing near the Seal wish to remain silent, the
Kultist hears nothing. Those near the Seal will hear the
Kultist as if he were standing next to them.
Level: One
Range: 5’ from Kultist’s Seal
Duration: 1 Scene
Cost: 1 Spirit Point
DomineSymbolis: The DomineSymbolis is the
trademark Convokation for the Box of Under. The Kultist
must make sacrifice to the Box in their own blood to draw
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the Seal. Using his own blood, the Kultist suffers 1
Essence Level of Penance. The permanent placement of
the Seal varies from Kultist to Kultist, and may only be
revoked by the powers of the Spiritual Essence.
Level: Two
Range: Flat Surface
Duration: Unlimited
Cost: Two Spirit Points
The Raising: This Convokation causes the power of Under
to reach from the ground and grasp its victims with inhuman
hands. These hands often prevent movement by grabbing
and pulling at the victim’s legs and feet. The Kultist and the
victim face off in an Occult vs. Agility Conflict. If the Kultist is
successful, the victim faces a 2 point penalty to all Dexterity-
related actions for the next Round.
Level: Two
Range: Line of Sight
Duration: 1 Round
Cost: 2 Spirit Points
Spines: This Convokation allows the Kultist to open their
robes and reveal the darkness within. Out from the
abyss, a shower of barbs pierces the flesh of their
victims. The sharp spines negate all the benefits of Soft
Armor. However, the barbs are brittle and self-destruct
upon hitting Hard Armor. One Spirit Point causes two
Spines to shoot out. Spending two Spirit Points, four
Spines emerge. Using three Spirit Points allow six
Spines to violate their victim. Each Spine does 1 Penance
upon a successful strike. The Kultist attacks the victim
with an Occult vs. Agility Conflict.
Level: Three
Range: Line of Sight
Duration: Instant
Cost: Variable
Kult of the Chemical Convokations
Resist: Using this Convokation allows Kultists of the
Chemical to restructure their biochemistry to withstand fire’s
harmful effects. They do not burn but instead are
invigorated, and heal one level of Essence for every level of
Penance they would otherwise take.
Level: One
Range: Self
Duration: 1 Hour
Cost: 1 Spirit Point
Catalyst: A life-saver for many Chemicalists, this
Convokation allows the Kultist to double the Essence
levels healed by any curative source for the next Round.
Their bodies already used to enhancement and alteration,
this can effect Rituals, Convokations and standard medical
healing efforts. Clever Chemicalists have discovered a
second use for Catalyst, it work on drugs too. Drugs taken
with this Convokation (or those it is cast upon) have
double the effect/potency while they are in the body.
Range: Touch
Duration: 1 Round
Cost: 1 Spirit
Blood of Slumber: Over a period of five minutes, all the
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blood in the Kultist’s veins turns into a highly potent sleep
agent. If swallowed or injected, the victim must win a
Stamina Conflict. If the victim fails the Conflict, they will
fall asleep for seven rounds less their Strength attribute
rating. The Kultist may endure Penance if a safe way of
drawing her blood is not available.
Range: Consumed
Duration: 1 Hour
Cost: 1 Spirit Point
Adrenaline: After performing this Convokation the Kultist
gains a temporary +2 bonus to their Strength. This
Adrenaline rush lasts until the end of the Scene, making
the Kultist a very dangerous opponent. The effects of this
Convokation are not cumulative.
Level: Two
Range: Self
Duration: 1 Scene
Cost: 2 Spirit Points
Purge: This Convokation allows the Kultist to purge any
diseases, drugs, or toxins from their body. All ill effects
are thus revoked. Expelled material, regardless of former
effects, is inert and will not harm anyone.
Level: Two
Range: Self
Duration: Instant
Cost: 2 Spirit Points
Choke: Upon contact with the victim, the Kultist may
drastically reduce the oxygen supply to their brain. The
victim feels as if they have an extreme case of vertigo. The
Kultist opposes the victim in a Medical vs. Immunity Conflict.
If successful, the victim suffers from a temporary one-point
loss to all of their Attributes when attempting any action.
Level: Three
Range: Touch
Duration: 1 Scene
Cost: 3 Spirit Points
Kult of the Internal Convokations
Evil Prayer: While damning the Spirit to Ighalli, the
Internalist chants a curse directed at one victim. That
victim is wracked with stiff joints and physical discomfort.
The victim suffers a 2-point penalty against their Dexterity
Attribute for the next Round.
Range: Line of Sight
Duration: 1 Round
Cost: 1 Spirit Point
Infernal Contract: When used, the Kultist becomes the
owner of a parchment written in blood. Known as the
Infernal Contract, its terms read, “Whoever should sign
the X at the bottom of these pages will transfer ownership
of their Spirit to the Kultist upon the signer’s death.”
When the signer dies, regardless of cause, their Spirit
travels to the Internalist instantaneously. The Kultist is no
longer required to use Call.
Level: One
Range: Touch
Duration: Permanent
Cost: 1 Spirit Point
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Redemption: Upon enactment, Redemption causes one
target to be violently thrown flat against the nearest wall.
The Kultist faces off against the victim in a Manipulation
vs. Stamina Conflict. If successful, the victim is inflicted
with 2 Essence Penance as their body is slammed
against an unforgiving surface.
Level: One
Range: Line of Sight
Duration: Instant
Cost: 1 Spirit Point
Influence: Through subtle gestures and slow, refined
speech, the Kultist entrances all that listen to the point of awe.
Upon successful enactment, the Kultist gains 2 bonus points
of Manipulation. These bonus points are used up when bid in
a Conflict regardless of success or failure. Since the effects of
this Convokation may be used cumulatively, Influence may
generate a pool of 6 bonus points of Manipulation.
Level: Two
Range: Self
Duration: Until used
Cost: 2 Spirit Points
Faith: By convoking Faith, the Kultist may ask a series of
questions to one, select person. If successful, the Kultist
may ask one question per each level the Kultist has in
the Mind Attribute. All questions must be answered
truthfully and to the best of the victim’s ability. The
Internalist must win a Manipulation vs. Subterfuge
Conflict for this Convokation to work.
Level: Two
Range: Line of Sight
Duration: Instant
Cost: 2 Spirit Points
Unyielding Life: This Convokation adds three levels of
Essence to the Kultist. These bonus Levels are used up
prior to the Kultist losing any of his original Essence
Levels. Kultists using this Convokation should be
forewarned. Ighalli occasionally demands an additional
personal payment from the Kultist.
Level: Three
Range: Self
Duration: Until used
Cost: 3 Spirit Points
Kult of the Lost Convokations
Regeneration: By releasing the entire Spirit in the Kultist’s
Blade, the Lost calls upon the blessings of Abaddon to
grant strength to himself. This Convokation heals one level
of Essence for each point of Spirit damned.
Level: One
Range: Self
Duration: Instant
Cost: Variable
Stalking the Prey: Gaining a sentience not all their own,
the Kultist enacting this Convokation becomes attuned to
their prey. After the target of the Convokation is chosen,
the Kultist gains a bonus of two points to their Stealth skill
whenever their prey notices them. This Convokation
remains active through the remainder of the Scene.
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Level: One
Range: Self
Duration: 1 Scene
Cost: 1 Spirit Point
Taint: With this Convokation, the Lost can smell the foul
stench of Mystical ability. Tuning themselves to their most
hated enemy, this Convokation allows the Kultist to
discern whether or not anyone in their immediate area
has the ability to cast Rituals. The Kultist must damn
Spirit to Carnivoria and defeat the target in an Sensitivity
vs. Occult Conflict. If successful, the Kultist knows
whether or not the target is a Mystic and how much
Energy is currently within their body.
Level: One
Range: Line of Sight
Duration: Instant
Cost: 1 Spirit Point
Shape of the Hunter: The effects of this Convokation
alter the form of the Kultist to mimic a Carnivorian
Daemon’s natural weapon. The weapon may include
horns, claws, razor teeth, etc. This weapon is brutal in
combat. Victims may add one level of Penance
dependent upon the damage. These changes are
permanent until the Kultist uses the Convokation again in
order to remove the enhancement.
Level: Two
Range: Self
Duration: Permanent
Cost: 2 Spirit Points
Draw the Breath: This Convokation furthers the
suffering of one intended victim by concentrating on
those that have lost Essence during the current combat.
If this Convokation is successful, any one victim who has
been wounded during the current combat takes an
additional Penance Level. Once the Lost has spent her
Spirit Points, she must win a Focus vs. Stamina Conflict
against her intended victim.
Level: Two
Range: Line of Sight
Duration: Instant
Cost: 2 Spirit Points
Atemi: Once Atemi is convoked, the Kultist feels the rage of
Abaddon set afire within his veins. The next melee or
unarmed strike from the Kultist will inflict double damage,
often leaving victims of this Convokation grievously wounded.
Level: Three
Range: Touch/Weapon contact
Duration: Next Attack
Cost: 3 Spirit Points
Kult of the Machine Convokations
Glitch: Following the trail of a Kultist with knowledge of
this Convokation is nearly impossible. When used, all
location/detection equipment fails, including Oculi.
Movement trackers fail to detect the Kultist and AI
weaponry loses all Lock-On capability. This lasts for as
long as the Kultist is within sight of the equipment.
Level: One
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Range: Line of Sight
Duration: As long as Kultist is in Range
Cost: 1 Spirit Point
Processing: This Convokation allows the Kultist to utilize
their Knowledge attribute to its fullest extent. Their brain
functioning as a computer, all unimportant information is
temporarily pushed aside to allow the desired information
to surface. This Convokation grants the Kultist 2 bonus
bids for any Knowledge-based Conflict. These bonus
bids are spent regardless of the success or failure of the
Conflict. This effect is not cumulative or stackable.
Level: One
Range: Self
Duration: 1 Scene
Cost: 1 Spirit Point
Sensory Defragmentation: Tuning out distractions and
confusing elements, the Kultist is able to temporarily
focus their senses far beyond their standard ability. The
Kultist gains two (2) temporary Perception Attribute points
for the next 24 hours. These Points are used up once
spent (as a Skill point would be), but can be applied to
any Perception Conflict.
Level: One
Range: Self
Duration: 24 Hours
Cost: 1 Spirit Point
Ground Body: For the duration of 24 hours, the Kultist is
completely immune to energy-based attacks. All electrical
Penance dealt to this Kultist is harmlessly grounded out
into the floor.
Level: Two
Range: Self
Duration: 24 Hours
Cost: 2 Spirit Points
Access Denied: This Convokation blocks any
altercations or manipulation to the Kultist’s mind by
rerouting the invading neural impulse away from the
brain. This grants the Kultist 2 Levels to the Mind
Attribute when defending against Rituals or Convokations
used against the Kultist’s mental state.
Level: Two
Range: Self
Duration: 1 Scene
Cost: 2 Spirit Points
Body of Machine: When Convoked, all muscles and
tendons in the Kultist’s body tighten to a point of
incredible duress. The Kultist gains a temporary bonus
Level to both Dexterity and Strength as Silesia’s
Influence energizes the body.
Level: Three
Range: Self
Duration: 1 Scene
Cost: 3 Spirit Points
Kult of the Undead Convokations
Attunement: Only useable upon a zombie, this
Convokation raises one of their Attributes by one. A
zombie’s Attribute may not exceed five. This allows for
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greater assimilation by the Daemonic Spirit of its human
host, and gives the Spirit more control over their new
senses and physique.
Level: One
Range: Touch
Duration: Permanent
Cost: 1 Spirit Point
Sense Interment: Avoiding the mechanical “eyes and
ears” of the Law and Mystics with this Convokation can
often ensure continued existence for the members of the
Kult of the Undead. This Convokation casts an
appearance of cold death on the Kultist. Heat sensing
scanners will not detect them, nor will Nightvision
goggles, as the body loses all heat and signs of life.
Level: One
Range: Self
Duration: 2 Rounds
Cost: 1 Spirit Point
Vapor: Dustings of decay are expelled upon the Kultist’s
prey with this Convokation, filtering through the air to a
maximum five-foot radius. The Kultist must win an Occult
vs. Immunity Conflict against the victim. If the Kultist wins,
the victim is only able to defend with either the Dexterity or
Strength Attribute for the next Round due to choking and
retching. Filtered helmets are immune to this Convokation.
Level: One
Range: Reach
Duration: Instant
Cost: 1 Spirit Point
Reanimate: Reanimate is the most commonly used
Convokation among the Kult of the Undead. With a
simple touch, the dead arises to serve their new Kultist
master. Most undead Characters begin with the base
statistics of a human zombie: Dex-1, Str-3, Mch-2, Knw-
2, Per-2, Mnd-1. These Zombies are loyal to their new
master, and go to great lengths to fulfill their duties as
guards, soldiers, or common workers.
Level: Two
Range: Touch
Duration: Permanent
Cost: 2 Spirit Points
Rigormortis: Touching their undead flesh upon their
victim’s skin, the Kultist instills an effect similar to
Rigormortis. The Kultist engages the victim in an Occult
vs. Stamina Conflict. If successful, the victim suffers from
a loss of Dexterity for each Spirit Point sacrificed in this
Convokation for the rest of the Scene.
Level: Two
Range: Touch
Duration: 1 Scene
Cost: Variable
Omophagia: Upon consumption of human flesh, the
Kultist or their undead minions may heal Essence. A bite
may result in a Conflict against the victim, depending
upon the circumstance. When Convoked, the Kultist
gains one Essence for every level of Essence consumed
from their victim. In order for this Convokation to work the
flesh obtained, either from the victim’s body or the
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morgue, must be less than 24 hours deceased. Range: Self
Level: Three Duration: 1 Scene
Range: Self Cost: 2 Spirit Points
Duration: Consumption
Cost: 3 Spirit Points Recant: By placing their blade on any Cybernetics-
implanted area in a human, the area touched immediately
Spiritual Essence Convokations reverts to its natural, biological state. The Cybernetic
Eyes of Heaven: By releasing Spirit from their blade, the disintegrates and any removed flesh is restored. The
Kultist alters their visual perceptions to encompass that Spiritual Essence Kultist must win a Focus vs. Cybernetics
which is usually unseen. For the next three Rounds the Conflict in order for this Convokation to work.
Character may see any Spirit or Spiritual Daemon as if Level: Three
they were made manifest. With this Convokation, the Range: Touch
Kultist may not affect Spirits, only see them. Duration: Instant
Level One: Cost: 3 Spirit Points
Range: Self
Duration: 3 Rounds Machine Cybernetics
Attribute: Perception Cybernetics represent man and his technology merging
Cost: 1 Spirit Point into a seamless whole. To some, Cybernetics is a means
to achieve higher efficiency. To others, it is the next step in
Gentle Whispers: With this Convokation, the Kultist may human evolution. Whatever the philosophy, those that
attempt to Call the Spirit of any recently deceased person choose to install Cybernetics never doubt their usefulness.
within the Kultist’s line of sight. If the Call vs. Spirit
Conflict is successful, the Spirit flows into the Kultist’s Filler: Fillers are a special combination of injected
Blade. Normally used in combat, this Convokation may biochemical resins that increase the body’s resilience to
also be used provided the victim has been deceased for damage. Once injected, the chemical binds to living tissue
a maximum of 24 hours. and expands to protect the user’s vital organs. As a result, the
Level: One user appears bulkier. Each Filler gives the Machine one extra
Range: Line of Sight Essence Level. Because the material hardens, using
Duration: Instant excessive amounts of filler can be quite dangerous.
Cost: 1 Spirit Point Machines may have a
maximum of three Fillers
Sense Flock: The Spiritual Essence Kultist can installed.
determine the condition of someone’s soul with this Level: One
Convokation. By sending the necessary Spirit within their Duration: Continuous
Blade to the Azure Hyaline and winning a Sensitivity vs. Cost: None
Restraint Conflict the Kultist can discern the current Spirit
rating of the target and whether or not the target is a Medical Relay:
member of the Spiritual Essence. Medical Relays
Level: One monitor the entire
Range: Line of Sight body function of their
Duration: Instant possessor, giving up
Cost: 1 Spirit Point to date information
about the users
Light of Purity: By calling forth the shining might of the health and well
Azure Hyaline, the Kultist may create an intense light that being. The device
strikes at a victim’s eyes. After contact, the beam of light can monitor the
dissipates and leaves behind a blinded and writhing user for
victim. The Spiritual Essence faces off against the victim known
in a Focus vs. Restraint Conflict. If successful, the victim
is only able to defend themselves with their Dexterity or
Strength Attribute for the next Round. The victim’s
blindness lasts for the duration of one Round.
Level: Two
Range: Line of Sight
Duration: 1 Round
Cost: 2 Spirit Points

Divine Right: With this Convokation, the Kultist becomes

immune to acts of manipulation. Any Terror or Fear
effects are nullified by this Convokation. The Kultist also
gains two bonus bids to defend against any attacks on
their Mind or Spirit.
Level: Two

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forms of poison or contagion, as well as transmit vital
information about the nature and extent of injuries sustained
in conflict. Once activated, Medical Relays give the user two
bonus bids which can be used in any Medical related
conflicts. These extra bids can also be used by another
character aware of the Medical Relay, and able to access it
(with a Data Jack or similar device).
Level: One
Duration: Instant
Cost: One Pulse point
Night Vision Oculi: This eye replacement is comprised of
carefully calibrated photoreceptors to allow its user to see in
low light settings. These devices help the possessor find their
way through places like the murky shadows of Sublevel Four,
or through the smoke-clouded clubs throughout Sublevel
Three. When activated, the Night Vision Oculi eliminates all
penalties due to low light situations, whether the darkness is
naturally or artificially created.
Level: One
Duration: 1 Scene
Cost: One Pulse point
CardioProcessor: CardioProcessors help protect a
human’s circulatory and digestive systems from chemical
attack by screening out poisons and other deadly
chemicals that have entered the body. Foreign particles
in the user’s blood stream bond to these tiny, reactive
filters. Capillary action then pushes the particles out
through the body’s sweat pores. When activated,
CardioProcessors add three bids that may be used in an
Immunity-related Conflict.
Level: Two
Duration: Instant
Cost: 2 Pulse points
BioBooster: BioBoosters are special nanofiber implants
that attach to a user’s nervous system, resulting in
superhuman reflexes and coordination. The BioBooster’s
direct commands cause the user’s nervous system
reaction time to increase so much so that the user may
reflexively act before the brain has time to process. When
activated, BioBoosters add 2 bids that are used for any
Dexterity-related Conflict. These bonus bids are used up
regardless of whether the Conflict is a success or failure.
Level: Two
Duration: Scene
Cost: 2 Pulse points
DermaPlating: DermaPlating is a full body armor grafted
under the epidermis. The material is made of synthetic
mesh reinforced by flexible metallic thread, creating an
easily recognizable cross hatch pattern in the skin above it.
DermaPlating is a favored cybernetic for bodyguards,
contractors, and daemon hunters for the simple but effective
protection it provides in combat. DermaPlating, when
installed, grants the possessor three points of Soft Armor.
Level: Three
Duration: Continuous
Cost: None
Mystic Rituals
Rituals are the powers held by the Mystics. Gifted to
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them through unknown forces, these powers differ from
Mystic to Mystic. The more focused a Mystic becomes,
the more variances their Rituals have. Each Mystic Path
teaches a different type of Ritual.
Alter Rituals
Those Mystics on the Path of Alter use Rituals to combat
the forces of Hell. Most Alter Rituals are primarily combat-
related or offensive in nature.
Aphotic Eyes: Understanding the basic elements of
darkness, the Alter may peer into the abyss. The Alter gains
complete vision in the dark, gaining an advantage over most
of his enemies, and the knowledge only a few will ever
possess. This Ritual works on all types of darkness and
shadow, including other levels of this Ritual. To gain this
insight into the shadows, the Alter must spend one point of
Energy and concentrate for a Round. Once activated, the
Alter is not hampered by any darkness, natural or created.
Level: One
Range: Self
Duration: 2 Rounds
Cost: 1 Energy Point
Ghostsight: The Alter may peer into the Spirit Dimension
long enough to gauge the number of Spirit points for a
particular Spirit, whether they be trapped in a Kultist blade or
wandering as a Spirit nearby. To use Ghostsight, the Alter
must focus his connection to the world around him. He
spends one point of Energy and opens himself up to the
flow of Spirit around him. If using this ritual against a Kultist,
the Alter must win an Occult vs. the Kultist’s Call to be
successful.
Level: One
Range: Natural Sight
Duration: Instant
Cost: 1 Energy Point
Drain Energy: By focusing upon a mechanical object, the
Alter can drain its power. Mechanical objects may include
ordnance, vehicles, Cybernetics, etc. If successful, the Alter
drains 2 Energy Points per turn of use. The energy then
discharges harmlessly into the air or ground. The Ritual’s
difficulty varies depending on the object, its power-source,
and its shielding.
Level: One
Range: Line of Sight
Duration: Instant
Cost: 1 Energy Point
Unravel: This Ritual allows an Alter to tear Spirit from a Kultist’s
blade. Although only one blade may be affected per use of
Unravel, it leaves a Kultist powerless. To Unravel the Spirit of a
Kultist’s blade, the Alter must concentrate on a chosen Kultist.
The two face off in an Occult vs. Call Conflict. If the Alter wins,
all Spirit in the Kultist’s Blade is set free.
Level: Two
Range: Natural Sight
Duration: Instant
Cost: 2 Energy Points
Andirous Touch: An Andirous Touch from an Alter burns
their intended victim. The Alter’s heat-concentrated
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hands scars their victim’s skin. Some Alters’ hands burn
so hot that gloves and other flammable items near them
are set alight. Any victim that suffers from the Andirous
Touch loses two points of Penance. Any flammable or
combustible object the Alter touches will be set on fire.
Resulting Penance may vary.
Level: Two
Range: Touch
Duration: Instant
Cost: 2 Energy Points
Disintegration: With Disintegration, an Alter may
destroy an inanimate object by touching it. This Ritual
lasts for up to two Rounds. This Ritual will only effect the
portion that the Alter’s hand comes in contact with. Thus,
the Alter’s hands gain the ability to dissolve hard armor,
walls, ordnances, Kult Blades, etc. Resulting Conflicts
vary depending upon the situation. If successful, three
levels of damage are dealt to any object the Alter touches
for the next two Rounds.
Level: Three
Range: Touch
Duration: 2 Rounds
Cost: 3 Energy Points
Visionary Rituals
Visionary Rituals are typically defensive or protective in
nature. Visionaries use Rituals to defend humanity
against the dark forces of Hell.
Aura: When enacted, the Mystic radiates a brilliant white
light. Glowing from every pore, this light can illuminate a
50-foot radius. This light can often make the difference
when fighting against Kultists in the bowels of the Zone.
Range: Line of Sight
Duration: 2 Rounds
Cost: 1 Energy Point
Enhanced Intuition: When enacted, this Ritual bestows
the Visionary with heightened senses. The Visionary with
Enhanced Intuition is able to sense items, Daemons or
humans that are otherwise concealed. This Ritual allows
the Visionary to gain two bonus Skill bids that may be
used in any Perception Conflict. Uses of Enhanced
Intuition are not cumulative.
Level: One
Range: Self
Duration: Until Bid or end of Session
Cost: I Energy Point
Residual: Use of this Ritual grants a Visionary the ability
to detect the state of any Spirit. By touching a corpse, the
Visionary gains an impression of whether a Spirit has
transcended, been Called or become a Wandering Spirit.
The Visionary may even gain a general idea of its
location should the Spirit still be within the vicinity. Some
see vague impressions, others instinctually learn of a
Spirit’s fate. A Visionary may only use Residual on a
body that has been deceased less than 24 hours.
Level: One
Range: Touch
Duration: Instant
Cost: 1 Energy Point
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Generation Point Costs:
• Attributes 3 pts
• Skills 1 pt
• Lvl 1 Enhancement 3 pts
• Lvl 2 Enhancement 6 pts
• Lvl 3 Enhancement 9 pts
• Essence 2 pts
• Spirit 3 pts
Restoration: Restoration permits a Visionary the ability
to reconstruct another’s human anatomy. Broken bones,
scarred flesh, and torn muscle are fully regenerated. After
focusing, the Visionary wipes their hand over any wound
in order to heal their patient. The Visionary enters a
Conflict relevant to the type of damage. If successful, this
Ritual restores 2 levels of Essence. This Ritual may not
be performed upon one’s self.
Level: Two
Range: Touch
Duration: Instant
Cost: 2 Energy Points
Haze-Shield: Creating a Haze-Shield defends the
Visionary from Penance caused by projectile weapons.
With the Visionary at its center, the Haze-Shield covers a
five-foot radius around him and anyone else within its
range. The Haze-Shield provides five points of Hard
Armor to all Characters within the shield for the duration
of the Ritual. This effect is cumulative, provided multiple
Visionaries are using this Ritual.
Level: Two
Range: 5 feet
Duration: 1 Round per level of the Visionary’s Mind Attribute
Cost: 2 Energy Points
Transference: When a Visionary uses Transference,
they make physical contact with an inanimate object in
order to siphon its energy. When the object or Cybernetic
is fully drained its energy blasts forth and does Penance
to anything within the Visionary’s targeted range. The
Penance dealt depends on the object from which the
energy was drained. The drained energy may not be
stored for later use. Visionaries with this Ritual are
hesitant to use it because of its potential for damage.
Level: Three
Range: Line of Sight
Duration: Instant
Cost: 3 Energy Points
Generation Points
Each Player receives 30 Generation Points at Character
creation, regardless of Ethos. Players may then use these
points to purchase higher stats for their Character. Costs
reflect an increase for one stat. For example, spending
three Generation Points will raise an Attribute by one.
Equipment
From the clothes they wear to the type of weapon they
use, Characters in Obsidian use a variety of items to
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further their goals. Barter and trade are essential to any
functioning society, and the Zone is no different. Most
transactions occur using Credits tracked by computers
and handheld Credbases. Others happen through shady
deals in clubs and dimly lit corners.
All Characters begin with a Credbase. Players may
spend Credits for additional Equipment. All starting
Characters get 2500 Credits at Character Creation.
Basic Gear
Communications – Often the difference between closing
a deal and being passed over for promotion,
communication is essential to Characters in Obsidian.
Vidphones offer both visual and audio conversations
between Characters. Discreet Characters may use a small
and silent Transmitter to relay short text messages.
Datapads offer a variety of digital services. Its primary use
is to transfer information via disks to other Character’s
Datapads. Players must specify which Communications
item they are purchasing for their Character.
Cost: 100 (Transmitter), 200 (Vidphone), 500 (Datapad)
Credbase – Credits may be stored and transferred to
store registers, bank machines, and other Credbases.
These small handheld devices store the owner’s Credits
along with their identification and other personal info. All
beginning Characters start with a Credbase.
Cost: 1000
Emergency Medical Kit – These kits have basic tools
and supplies for first aid. The kit contains items such as;
Coolant Gel that heals burns, Sanitation Spray that helps
eliminate toxins, and Liquid Skin that closes minor
wounds. These kits also consist of bandages, painkillers,
and simple instructions. When used to try to heal another
Character, a Character gains 2 bonus Medical Skill points.
Cost: 300
Surveillance Kit – Used by Investigators, corporate spies
and the occasional Contractor, this equipment allows
Characters to pry into the secrets of others. Each unit
contains a scope with an infrared lens, a mini-microphone
receiver, and a pocket digital camera. These devices must
have line-of-sight to the target for proper function.
Cost: 500
Toolkits – Ranging from basic maintenance kits to highly
intricate specialty gear for installing cybernetics, Toolkits
aid Characters in accomplishing their duties. Most
Toolkits are customized to fit a particular job, starting out
as a basic set and advancing as the Character adds
more specific items. Toolkits give a Character 2 bonus
Skill bids when attempting repairs or modifications.
Players must specify what type of Toolkit they are
purchasing for their Character (i.e. Cybernetic,
Engineering, Maintenance, or Vehicle).
Cost: 1500 (Cybernetic), 1000 (Engineering), 500
(Maintenance), 700 (Vehicle)
Weapons
In an age where Mystics walk the streets to aid humankind
and Kultists prey upon their fellow man, many in the Zone
have turned to weapons as a reliable form of protection.
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Circuit Blades: Sleek and effective, these deadly blades
are used by assassins and citizens alike. These blades may
be used to legally defend oneself in case of attack. Circuit
Blades are engineered knives that have electrical units in
their hilts. They cut similar to a standard knife. When
charged, the blade also electrically shocks an intended
victim. Circuit Blades must be recharged after three uses.
Penance when charged: 2 Essence Levels
Penance when not charged: 1 Essence Level
Cost: 200
Kult Blades: These deadly blades contain the very soul of
Characters within Obsidian. Used by the minions of Hell to
steal the Spirit of others, Kult Blades vary in size, shape,
and material. Dangerous to use out in the open, Mystics
and Law agents are quick to arrest anyone who is in liege
with Hell. This excludes members of the Spiritual
Essence. Kult Blades store the Spirit Points of Characters
the Kultist has successfully Called. Kult Blades may only
contain a maximum of five Spirit Points at one time. The
blade may also be used as a regular weapon. All Kultists
receive one free Kult Blade at Character creation. Only
Kultist Characters may use Kult Blades.
Penance: 1 Essence Level
Cost: Variable…most Kult Blades are illegal and rare…
Diagnostics Seven – A powerful Ordnance, the
Diagnostics Seven is often used by Contractors and
security personnel. It is difficult to conceal, but offers a
variety of features that earns its popularity. The D7 has a
quick-release clip that eases reloading, and it is built to
avoid jams even after a drawn-out gun battle.
Penance: 2 Essence Levels
Load: 14 Rounds
Cost: 900
Prang Z11 – A smaller Ordnance, the Prang Z11 is a
popular pistol used for defense or additional armament
for those who can afford it. It has little to no recoil and
can easily fit into a jacket pocket.
Penance: 2 Essence Levels
Load: 7 Rounds
Cost: 600
Davidson Arms Defender – A recent addition to the
market, this short rifle is quickly becoming very popular. It
is light and powerful with a large clip. It may be
expensive, but many Contractors and Bodyguards claim
it is worth the investment.
Penance: 3 Essence Levels
Load: 20 Rounds
Cost: 1500
Extra Clips – These clips vary in size depending on the
weapon they are designed for. On average, Clips cost
between 30 (Pistols) and 50 (Rifles) Credits. The price
goes up depending on demand and availability.
Weapons of Opportunity – Sometimes Characters are
caught in a situation where they need to grab whatever is
available. This “category” of weapons is a catch-all for
blunt trauma items such as chains, clubs, etc. Narrators
have the final say on how much Penance such a weapon
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causes. In most cases the object will cause 1 Essence
Level of Damage.
Penance: Determined by Narrator
Cost: Variable (anything from Free to 50 Credits)
Armor
Armor is built for combat, fashion or everyday safety.
Softer armors offer less protection than hard armors, but
allow a Character full range of movement. Armor protects
the wearer from Penance depending upon its Armor Level.
Any Penance beyond the Armor Level is dealt to the
Character. Blades and Ordnances destroy the protective
properties of an item if they exceed its Armor Level.
Leathers – Often cut into jackets and suits, Leathers are
often made from Daemon hide. They offer basic
protection for the covered area. Leather is a mainstay for
most Characters as it is fashionable and affordable.
Armor Level: 1 Point
Dexterity Penalty: None
Cost: 100
Hybrid Weaves – Hybrid Weaves are made from a
synthetic fabric. These items come in several fashions and
colors, offering a variety of styles for Zone citizens. They
are often stronger than Leathers, but more costly to obtain.
Armor Level: 2 Points
Dexterity Penalty: None
Cost: 400
Trenchcoat or Cloak – Used to cover more of the body,
these items can be layered over Leather & Hybrid-Weave
suits or standard clothing. At Character Creation, a
Player must indicate which item they choose.
Armor Level: 1 Point
Dexterity Penalty: 1 Point
Cost: 300
Vest – Bulky and strong, armored vests give the wearer
decent torso protection. Usually consisting of two hard
plates of armor, the vest straps together over the
wearer’s shoulders and sides. When worn, the Vest may
determine the difference between life and death.
Armor Level: 3 Points for Torso Only
Dexterity Penalty: 1 Point
Cost: 800
Resolving Conflicts
Whenever possible, Characters are encouraged to act their
way through scenes, handling discussions and negotiations as
their Character would react to each situation. However, in any
game, there will be times when two Character’s interests are
opposed to each other. These moments are referred to as
Conflicts. When the Players face a Conflict they must
overcome it through their abilities, rather than their acting skills.
To resolve Conflicts and allow the story to progress, Obsidian
uses a system known as Auctioning. Players enter competition
between themselves or against a Narrator in order to allow the
scene to continue in a manner which is in the best interest of
their Character. Players ‘bid’ on a scene, pitting their
capabilities against their opponent. The victor is decided by
who ‘pays the most’ to win the outcome they desire.
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Basic Conflict Resolution Overview
In order to resolve a Conflict, a determination must first be
made as to the appropriate Character Attribute that would be
used to solve the nature of the Conflict. For instance, if a
Character were attempting to push over a motorcycle, the
appropriate Attribute would be Strength. Opposing Players may
come to a mutual agreement as to the appropriate Attribute for
a Conflict, or the Narrator may make the determination.
Second, the Players or Narrator must decide if an appropriate
Skill exists which can be applied to the Conflict. Most Conflict
resolution will consist of a pair made of an Attribute and a Skill.
In some rare Conflicts, they may be tested with solely the use
of an Attribute. The pairing of an Attribute and a Skill is referred
to as the Players’ Bid Pool.
Contested vs. Unopposed Conflicts
Conflicts come in two basic types; Contested or Unopposed.
A Contested Conflict is one in which a Player Character is
pitted against another Character or an NPC. Combat is an
example of a Contested Conflict. Contested Conflicts pit one
Character’s Bid Pool against another’s. These Bid Pools need
not necessarily be made up of the same Attribute/Skill pair. All
that is required to enter a Contested Conflict, is a Bid Pool that
consists of the necessary Attribute and an appropriate Skill for
achieving a Player’s desired outcome. Players must agree on
the appropriateness of the Attribute/Skill pairs, or a Narrator
may make a final decision on the Bid Pools.
An Unopposed Conflict is one in which a Character faces an
obstacle rather than another Character. An example of an
Unopposed Conflict is a Character attempting to bypass a
security device. The Character must still create the appropriate
Bid Pool for the Conflict. The Narrator then assigns a Difficulty
Rating for the obstacle. The Difficulty Rating is secretly
determined once the appropriate Bid Pool has been decided,
and is used as the bid against the challenging Player. The
Player must win against the Difficulty Rating in order to be
successful in the Conflict.
Auctioning
Once appropriate Bid Pools and Difficulty Ratings have
been decided, the Players decide the outcome of the scene
through a process called Bidding. First, Players may
increase the size of their Bid Pools if they have appropriate
bonuses granted to them by Cybernetics, Rituals or
Convokations, mystical items, etc. These bonuses must be
activated and declared before the bidding progresses.
Players then bid by simultaneously holding out one or both
hands, with fingers extended equal to the number of bids they
are willing to risk on the Conflict. This bid must be less than or
equal to, the number of bids a Player has available in their
Bid Pool. Players may use as many of these bids as they
desire to risk in the bidding. In an Unopposed Conflict, the bid
made by the Narrator against the challenging Player will be
equal to the Difficulty Rating of the obstacle. The Player with
the greatest number of bids risked is the winner of the
Conflict, and their version of events determines the progress
of the story. In the case of an Unopposed Conflict, if the
Player’s bid is greater than the difficulty rating, then the
Character was successful in overcoming the obstacle.
Regardless of the outcome of the Conflict, both Players
temporarily lose any Skills or temporary bids granted by the
use of Cybernetics, Rituals, etc. that they risked in the
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bidding. Attribute Ratings are permanent, and are not lost as
a result of bidding. Characters are not required to risk Skill
bids if they choose not to; they may use the Attribute Rating
alone in any Conflict. Activating some Enhancements may
restore temporary bids. To replenish their skills, the Character
may choose to spend one point for their Spirit Pool. Once
spent, all Skill bids are restored under the Attribute category
of the Player’s choice.
Ending the Conflict
Once Players have determined the highest bid and marked
off all spent bids, the winning Player describes his or her
preferred outcome for the Conflict, and the story continues.
Some Conflicts, such as Combat, may require multiple rounds
of bidding. In these cases, each Conflict round consists of
determining a Bid Pool, Auctioning, and Resolving the Conflict.
A new round of bidding may begin only after the winning Player
describes the continuation of the scene. Play continues until
the Conflict is ended, and Players pick up the story immediately
following the Resolution of the last round of bidding.
Complications
The process described above is the standard way to
resolve Conflicts in Obsidian LARP. Some unusual situations
may add a layer of complexity to the process. These
situations are described here:
Ties: Occasionally, two Characters bidding in a Conflict will
risk precisely the same number of traits. When this occurs,
both Players must announce their Character’s permanent
Rating in the Attributes they used for resolving the Conflict.
The Player with the highest Attribute Rating is declared
the winner of the Conflict, and both Players resolve the
Conflict as if it were a normal situation. If the Players’
comparison of their Attribute traits also results in a tie,
then the scene is resolved using the Defender Wins
rule. This rule states that the initiator of a Conflict
must win the bidding in order to resolve the
scene in their favor.
Modifications: Due to the circumstances of
a particular scene, a Narrator may choose to
add or subtract bid modifications to a
particular round of bidding. This is
accomplished by limiting
the size of a
Player’s
http://www.twilight-games.com
http://www.twilight-games.com
Bid Pool. For example, a Player has entered an Uncontested
Conflict against a security door while in a pitch-black room.
The Narrator subtracts points from the Player’s Bid Pool to
account for the darkness. Bid modifications are entirely at the
discretion of the Narrator.
Story Ideas
The Age of Judgement is full of opportunity for Characters
in Obsidian. Each Ethos has a Motivation that they try to
uphold as they make their way throughout the Zone.
Motivations and the challenges that occur when they oppose
each other can make for some interesting stories in Obsidian
LARP. Socials and the ever-present quest for Credits in the
corporate society of the Zone can also inspire individual
stories for Characters within the setting.
New Technology: A manufacturing corporation has recently
released a new weapon or type of Cybernetics for test
marketing. Who will gain control of this technology? Will it be
used for the benefit of Humanity or one of the Kults?
Missing Persons: Several citizens have vanished in the
last few weeks. Investigators have been called in to solve this
case. Who is responsible? Kultists may be framed for the job
so the Mystics can move in and wipe them out; perhaps it
would be in everyone’s best interests to locate the culprit
before the Law rolls in and clears out the Sublevel…
Gladiators: An illegal Arena Match has been set up in a
dark corner of Sublevel Four. The nastiest, deadliest fighters
in the Sector will be there trying to win
some Credits and prove who is the
best of the best. Side bets are
encouraged and lots of
deals are available for
anyone with the
Credits or goods
to trade.
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