Inspiration and Character Drives

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Aethons are embodiments of ideals.

Like other beings of Yrion, they are, in fact, emanations of inspiration, aspects of the Flame Eternal that shapes the very realms of Yrion itself, and which, ultimately nourishes all of existence, including the Prime Worlds.

Therefore, in the universe of Empyrean Inspiration lies at the root of everything. It is the source of what many call "magic", or mysticism. This is a power that is available to everyone, in different forms. The difference being is that Empyreans can channel this abstract energy into tangible supernatural powers. This is a gift passed onto them through their spiritual heritage - they were once Aethons.

Nonetheless, every being with a spirit has access to the power of inspiration, and can use it in the following ways:

- As a standard part of making Spirit - based actions. Inspiration is used instead of traits, when the player declares a spirit-based action. As the player may choose any virtue or ideal regardless of aspect, the storyteller can likewise select any character flaw, regardless of aspect, and use it against the player. The player can opt to spend willpower in Spirit - based actions, which will add the benefits mentioned below, on top of the existing modifications.

- As a means of "boosting" a regular action. The player declares that they plan to use inspiration, spend 1 Willpower, and use a specific character drive, a passion, ideal, virtue, or other drive that the player may have designed themselves. The player gains a number of bonus dice equal to their character drive score.

- As a means of channeling "special" actions, either in the form of talents, or special powers. The player spends 1 Willpower, but need not use a specific character drive. In the case of talents the player gains a number of bonus Edge dice to their roll. In the case of powers, the player gains a number of bonus Supremacy dice to their roll.

With the notable exception of Spirit-based actions (all Empyrean powers, and mystical talents are Spirit-Based actions) where a player uses Inspiration for standard rolls, but also for the "special" ones, it is not possible to spend willpower simultaneously and somehow stack different inspiration benefits.

Thus, a player can either use a talent and receive the talent's Edge dice, a power and receive the power's Supremacy dice, or Inspiration and receive the Inspiration bonus, but these benefits cannot stack.

We will explore the particulars of character drives separately, but for now it is a rather clear and straightforward affair. They are positive values that inspire the characters to be better at what they do.

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