Knowledge: Cosmology
The entire scope of the cosmos is vast, comprising both visible space and various sub-dimensions and alternate realities. For the average mortal, these distant realms are a mystery with little to distinguish the outlandish truths from the myths. Characters with this Knowledge understand not only that these remote realms exist, but they can identify the characteristics of unique Umbral dimensions such as the Astral Plane, the Shadow Lands, the Dreaming, the Gauntlet, etc. Furthermore, the Cosmology skill is often a prerequisite for travelers wishing to use technological or supernatural means to travel to these far-flung worlds and return safely. Indeed, it may be impossible to master this Knowledge without several decades, if not centuries of sojourning in these alternative expressions of reality. For this reason, few normal mortals ever learn how to travel to other Umbral realms or experience new Sub-Dimensions first hand since making the journey requires either Supernatural powers for rending the Gauntlet between realms, or access to a Dimensional Science research laboratory. It is important to note that trans-dimensional beings are classified differently from aliens. Cosmology applies to all creatures native to the plane of existence other than the Prime Material Plane. All other creatures (such as Snydeads, Tourians, and Klact’Bakta) are deemed “Aliens” and knowledge of them falls under the Xenobiology knowledge. Common information rolls using Cosmology include identifying which Sub-Dimension a particular creature comes from, and using context clues to discern which Umbral realm your character currently inhabits. Cosmology study rolls involve formulating plans to travel to and from an Umbral realm safely, identifying the strengths and weaknesses of Umbral creatures, and being able to navigate around a particular Umbral realm upon arrival.
Ability Levels:
| 0 | Ignorant: The concept of Sub-Dimensional travel is foreign to you. All creatures from these distant realms strike you equally as either aliens or monsters. |
| 1 | High School: You have read some of the standard books on Umbral travel and you can identify some of the closer realms given enough time and research. |
| 2 | College: You understand the rudiments of Umbral travel. Given the appropriate access resources, you could even travel to a distant realm or two. |
| 3 | Masters: You have traveled to the Umbra on a few occasions and know what to expect when venturing into certain realms. |
| 4 | Doctorate: You understand both magical and scientific methods of dimensional travel. You may even be comfortable when traveling in distant realms. |
| 5 | Scholar: You have lived the majority of your life off of the Prime Reality Plane, and it shows. There are few things in the Umbra that surprise you anymore. |
Werewolves, Telepaths, Dream Speakers, Arcanes, Changelings, Void Engineers, Foolhardy Adventurers, Klact’Bakta, Umbral Creatures.
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