Rules

Portable storage containers for Quintessential energy, Matrices are tech-based Periapts. Unlike their mystic coun­ terparts (detailed below), these batteries tend to look perfectly mundane, working not off absurd supernatural principles but instead employing the laws of Enlightened Science. Designed for easy use and access, each Matrix plugs into hypertech Devices and other tools of advanced technology. Power packs, microfusion reactors, Etheric batteries, and other receptacles of sublime energy are considered to be Matrices, whether or not they use that name.

In game terms, of course, a Matrix and a Periapt are almost exactly the same things. A Matrix, however, is manufactured as an item of technology – usually mass-produced in Enlightened Science facilities by specialized technicians and machines. Individual mad scientists, of course, produce hand-crafted Matrices according to their own unique theories. So long as a given Matrix has been designed to fit a particular Device or instrument, however, a technomancer can swap out different Matrices to fuel the same machine; recharge a Matrix at an appropriate energy source; employ a Matrix’s Quintessence without the usually required concentration; and switch out “empty clips” for fresh Matrices of the same kind.

On the downside, a Matrix cannot be refreshed through the arcane Arts of superstitionist “magic,” nor can it absorb energy through ridiculous methods like leaving it sitting beside

an “enchanted pool” or some such nonsense. It might be im­ planted into a living thing, but will not simply “meld” itself into a functioning biomass. In all other respects, however, a Matrix follows the game systems detailed below.