Wonder Creation

Wonders: Resources, Definitions, and Basic Rules

1.     Relevant Mage book citations include a chart detailing the necessary spheres on page 508 and a longer description of the crafting process on pages 651-653. I’ve attached copies of both.

2.     Definitions:

a. Wonders are items that employ Sphere-based Effects in order to channel the reality-warping powers of a mage. Consors can use a mystic wonder. Extraordinary Citizens can use a tech-based Device. A sleeper could use a Trinket or Fetish.

b. Talisman: a sophisticated, self-contained magickal item, i.e. the Traditions word for Wonder using a superstitionist paradigm.

c. Device: a tech-based Wonder. Loyal Technocrats only employ regulation devices.

d. Fetish: similar to a wonder but it gets its power from a bound spirit. e. '''Artificial Intelligences and Alien Grafts''': Fetishes in the Technocratic paradigm.

f. Trinket: a minor Wonder, e.g. basic mirrorshades.

g. Periapt: superstitionist word for a portable source of quintessence.

h. Matrix: a periapt in the Technocratic paradigm.

3.     Using a Wonder: A Device has its own Enlightenment pool that is rolled for activation; any paradox goes to the Technocrat.

4.     Using a Fetish: Devices fueled by aliens and AIs require a relationship with the inhabitant or compulsion. This may involve a contested willpower roll against difficulty 7.

5.     Using a Matrix: They hold up to 5 quintessence per dot. Drawing energy or refueling the matrix requires a Prime 2 roll.

6.     Using a Trinket: They’re like Apple products—they just work.

 Making a Wonder:  Technocratic Devices

1.     Check the chart on page 508 for necessary spheres. Devices take Prime 4 + the spheres in the effect. An individual character must have all the necessary spheres.

2.     The technocrat must research the theories and techniques involved in creating the device using the “Research” entry from the Dramatic Feats chart on page 403. This is an extended Intelligence + Research roll at difficulty 9.

3.     The technocrat must make an extended ability roll to create the actual Device. This process requires extended rolls as explained on pages 463-464. It comes down to 2 options for extended rolls using appropriate attributes and abilities; probably Intelligence + Technology or Computer:

a. Significant improvement on existing device: Diff. 9, 10 successes required

b. Brand new device based on new or unconventional principles: Diff. 10, 20 successes

4.     The technocrat will need the mundane materials used in creating the device: anything from high-grade computer components to nuclear material.

5.     The Technocrat must fuel the creation of the Wonder with Quintessence. It takes 5 points per background dot and an additional 1 point for every crafting roll made in step 3 above.

6.     The source of the quintessence must be appropriate to the nature of the Wonder. This may require a special quest at the storyteller’s discretion.