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.