Rule of Drama

Introduction

Rule of Drama: If the potential for conflict is visible, then it will never be passed over.

Purpose

To provide opportunities to RP over-the-top, TV-style, interpersonal conflict; to allow the burden of arbitration of such to be shared between the player and GM; and to make such interpersonal relationships more interesting within the role-playing context. This is the social equivalent of "wandering monsters."

The Network

See also "Supporting Casts," Supers p.63.

A PC that doesn't live sequestered from society will interact with people and develop relationships. Those relationships that matter to the character will be a potential source of Drama. Make a list of the important relationships; this is referred to as the Network. When a conflict occurs, this list will be used to randomly determine who will be involved, and is expected to change in play; just add new characters to the end of the list, or strike those no longer applicable. To qualify for the Network, a prospective member should:

• Have some potential to be in "interpersonal conflict" with the PC (for example: subject is physically present and capable).
• Be valued by the PC enough to maintain the relationship, rather than abandon or ignore it.

The subject of a qualified relationship does not need to be associated with any Traits like Dependent or Ally (though such characters will always qualify). The relationship does not need to be reciprocated, or "equal." Relationships with other PCs are always considered important, but are not included in the Network (for random selection).

Rising Tension

Relationship Management

The skill the PC uses to manage his relationships will normally be Diplomacy, and is referred to as the Relationship Management Skill (RMS). The GM may allow another suitable skill may be allowed to replace Diplomacy, but may be subject to drawbacks (using Intimidation or Fast-Talk to manage regular relationships could have unpleasant side-effects). The skill used may be changed by the player at the start or end of an adventure, or during down-time during an adventure, as appropriate, but will be considered "in effect" until the next opportunity. The Relationship Management Check is equal to the higher of the PC's Will or Will-based RMS plus any applicable modifiers.

Angst

Tensions resulting from the PC's relationships build over time, lowering resistance until a Conflict occurs. This is represented by the character's Angst, a score that will constantly change with the social conditions. The buildup of Angst can have detrimental (and sometimes, beneficial) side effects (see below?). When an Angst Modifier is called for, use current Angst/3 (round down). A given PC's Angst level may not be immediately obvious to others (unless he possesses Traits like Easy to Read), but may be detected by those with Empathy or Sensitive, or with a Psychology (Applied) success (see Social Engineering, [ref]).