Fascination

Stories of the enthralling sorcerer or the bewitching magician are found in folktales across the world. Devious enchanters bring the innocent under their sway, and deals struck for power entrap the hearts and minds of those so foolish as to sign away their souls to such bargains. The kernel of truth to this old trope is solid as diamond. Unscrupulous magicians bending the minds of others to their will have practiced this Path as long as anyone has wished another would just act or think in an agreeable manner.

The methods vary, but the result is the same: Break the subject’s will and enthrall them. A sorcerer employ­ ing a mystical practice may apply makeup that makes their eyes sparkle with entrancing radiance. They may spritz themselves with an alluring fragrance, drawing the attention of anyone within wafting distance. Others may simply hone their confidence into a razor’s edge, impossible to resist. Extraordinary Citizens carry tested and approved harmonic resonators that emit a subsonic frequency that rebalances neurotransmitters to facilitate compliance.

Those with mind-altering powers already can resist with powers of their own if they are the specific target of a power. This goes both ways, as a student of this Path may recognize other uses of mind-altering effects and prepare themselves to resist or overcome them.

System

Modifiers: +1 difficulty for being disliked by the target, +2 difficulty for being hated by the target

Aspects: In addition to the Aspects of Number of Targets, Range, and Sympathetic Connection, Fascination uses the Allure and Willbending Aspects:

Allure

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Add 1 die to social die pools

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Add 2 dice to social die pools

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Add 3 dice to social die pools

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Add 4 dice to social die pools

••••• Add 5 dice to social die pools

Willbending

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Intriguing: You draw attention even in a crowd, and individuals find you interesting in one-on-one conversation. You may make mild suggestions that align with the target’s personal­ ity and situation such as getting another drunk if they are at a bar.

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Alluring: Almost everyone at the gathering knows you were there, and individuals will try to find a way to see you again. You may make strong suggestions that align with the target’s personality and situation, such as heading home with the hedge wizard after a fun night.

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Beguiling: Everyone assumes that you had a hand in setting up the party, and individuals around you will vie for your attention. You may make suggestions that don’t necessarily align

29 Chapter One: Hedge Magic