Chapter 3: Attributes

The Mysterious Allure of 42

In Chapter Two: Casting Call, we uncovered the intriguing fact that each actor is allocated 42 Attribute Points (ATP) to distribute among their seven Attributes. But what's the hidden significance behind this enigmatic number? As we dive deeper, we'll unravel how this number shapes the mechanics of your role and influences your character's growth and development. The answer, much like the Ultimate Question itself, may be more straightforward than you think.

What's in a Number?

Who would have thought that those math lessons would transcend the classroom and spill into the realm of fictional world-building? Perhaps your math teacher was more prophetic than you realized, foreseeing a future where numbers would breathe life into imaginary worlds.

The Spark of Life

In this realm, the number zero represents the absence of life, the antithesis of existence itself. It symbolizes a state of dormancy, where potential lies latent, waiting to be awakened. When a character's Attribute dwindles to zero, it is considered inoperable, a stark reminder that even the slightest presence of energy is necessary for functionality. This binary distinction between existence and non-existence underscores the delicate balance between life and void, highlighting the importance of nurturing and preserving one's Attributes to maintain vitality. To ensure the spark of life remains, every character begins with a minimum value of 1 in all Attributes, guaranteeing a fundamental level of existence and functionality. This inherent vitality serves as the foundation for growth, development, and the pursuit of greatness.

As your character navigates the journey of life, they begin to develop and refine their capabilities. The number two represents this incremental growth, where fundamental abilities are built upon, and newfound skills begin to emerge. At this stage, your character's gait becomes more confident, their absorption of knowledge more efficient, and their resilience in the face of childhood mishaps more impressive. The number two symbolizes a clumsy yet endearing grasp on these developing functions, as your character learns to navigate the world with increasing autonomy. This blossoming of potential marks the beginning of a lifelong journey, where your character will continue to refine their abilities, overcome challenges, and grow into a unique and formidable individual.

As your character continues to grow and develop, they reach a critical juncture represented by the number three. This benchmark signifies a threshold of societal expectations, where parents, teachers, and mentors encourage your character to strive for functional independence. The number three embodies the struggles and challenges that come with transitioning from childhood to adulthood. It symbolizes the push to develop essential skills, overcome obstacles, and adapt to the demands of society.

Upon reaching the number four, your character achieves a milestone: they have attained mediocrity. This may seem unremarkable, but it represents a crucial accomplishment – the ability to function effectively within societal norms. Your character has reached a state of balance, where they can navigate everyday challenges without excelling or struggling excessively. The number four shines as a beacon of moderate success, a testament to your character's growth into a capable individual.

The Radiance of Exceptionality

As your character continues to evolve, they enter a realm where their natural talents and abilities begin to shine. The numbers five through eight represent the blossoming of innate gifts, setting your character apart from the masses. In this stage, your character's exceptionalities become apparent, and they start to excel in specific areas. They may demonstrate a keen intellect, artistic flair, athletic prowess, or charisma that draws others to them. The numbers five through eight symbolize the emergence of a remarkable individual, one who stands out in a society where mediocrity is the norm. Your character's growth is now marked by distinction and recognition. They may attract attention, admiration, or even envy from others. As they continue to hone their talents, they will face new challenges and opportunities, propelling them toward greatness. The radiance of their exceptionality illuminates their path, guiding them toward a future filled with promise and possibility.

As your character continues their upward trajectory, they enter the realm of the grasping paragon, represented by the numbers thirteen through sixteen. Here, they have transcended the threshold of excellence, and their abilities are now characterized by an unyielding pursuit of perfection. Their grasp on greatness is firm, yet they remain keenly aware of the infinitesimal margins that separate the sublime from the truly transcendent. With each incremental step, they draw closer to the apotheosis of human potential.

Finally, with the attainment of seventeen through twenty, your character reaches the pinnacle of human perfection, embodying the true paragon. This rarefied realm represents the culmination of unwavering dedication, unrelenting passion, and an unyielding pursuit of excellence. Here, your character's abilities have transcended the boundaries of mortal potential, entering the realm of the extraordinary. They have achieved a state of mastery that is at once awe-inspiring and humbling, a testament to the limitless potential that lies within.

Indeed, for games where mortal characters are the focus, it's advisable to cap Attribute values at twenty, maintaining a sense of humanity and vulnerability. This range allows for impressive growth and achievement without crossing into the realm of the divine. However, for campaigns that delve into the fantastical, such as monster-themed adventures, anime-inspired stories, or contests between immortals, the sky's the limit. In these realms, characters can continue to evolve and expand their abilities, defying mortal constraints and embracing the extraordinary. By doing so, you can create legendary characters, demigods, or even supreme beings, each with their own unique strengths and abilities. The possibilities become endless, and the story can unfold in ways that are both epic and unforgettable.

The Meaning Of Life

The seven Attributes form the foundation of your character's existence, each representing a distinct aspect of their being. Together, they weave a rich tapestry that defines their strengths, weaknesses, and potential. Let us embark on a journey to explore the meaning behind each Attribute, delving into the essence of your character's existence. What secrets will we uncover? How will these Attributes shape the destiny of your role? The exploration begins...