Employing a Talisman
System
Like the Devices detailed above, every Talisman has its own Arete rating. That Arete forms the dice pool for the Talisman’s
Effect
s. Although this Trait reflects paranormal power, not true
Awakening
, certain Talismans could be considered “alive” in
some senses of that word.
Powerful Talismans (those of Arete 5 or higher) often display a distinct personality, and may indulge in
Stormbringer-like behavior if the “owner” doesn’t suit the
Talisman’s nature. Penny Dreadful, for example, has a
way of “acquiring” fantastic little treasures; her innate
good humor, however, occasionally conflicts with some
of the nastier trinkets in her collection, which often
leads to a Talisman being melted down or discarded
while Penny recovers from the effects of those
disputes… some of which can become quite
dangerous. As with other Wonders, Talismans
feature potent Resonance signatures, too.
The nature of that energy depends upon
the origins and uses of the Talisman in
question. A blood-drinking necklace of
vampire fangs will radiate a Malevolent
hunger, while a blessed golden
sickle shimmers with Calm and
sacred purpose.