An intriguing idea, although it seems like the drawbacks outweigh the benefits. I must admit, I didn't get the title until I saw the examples. Even so, this is pretty good for being under 100 words. Go to Comment
Mixing the freetexts is giving me an opportunity to explore some different ways of writing. I find that I like weaving different elements together in a single package and will probably do more subs along those same lines. Go to Comment
Those with weak wills who use the Glyph often find themselves becoming obsessed with the past. The more they see, the more they are compelled to use it. Examples include: an obsession with a particular sequence of events, family, or area; paranoia about the motives of those around the bearer (whether they be friends, family, business associates, etc.); seeking something lost to the past (as in Oeren's case); or even egomania that drives the bearer to show supernatural knowledge.
There are demons living in the time fog. Using the Glyph has a chance of catching some unwanted attention.
Each time the Glyph is used, it leaves a small crack in the ethereal plane, inviting strange beings through into the mortal world. Repeated use in one area creates larger rifts and the risk of bigger beasties making it through.
Additional Powers
While in the time fog, the bearer is invisible.
Occasionally, a strong-willed bearer will be able to peek into the future. As the future is fluid, each viewing may show slightly different events. This invites the same danger of overuse, where an obsession develops around controlling the flow of time. This often ends in complete madness where the bearer can no longer tell the difference between hundreds of possible outcomes and what actually happens.
More Plot Hooks
The PC's are approached by the intermediary of a nervous noble. They are offered a substantial reward for finding out who is blackmailing this noble. The blackmailer, of course, is using the Glyph to gather dirt on his rivals in an attempt to increase his own wealth and power. Staying a step ahead of the villain will be tricky.
A town has been overrun by creatures of the ethereal realm. A reward is offered for clearing it. Within lies the Glyph and the dessicated corpse of its wielder, who unknowingly created cracks into the ethereal through constant use. His attempts to satisfy his obsession with the local mayor's lovely young wife ended up destroying everyone for miles around.
This sounds like so much fun, I'm tempted to work an adventure around it rather than waiting for the players to get in a jam. Dr Who aside, I generally don't find time travel in games or fiction very engaging, but this is good. Maybe it's my love of messing with my players' minds.
I would probably make the fighter's injury something less horrific than the loss of an arm, simply because most players would outright refuse to pull the red lever. Especially since the punishment for not doing it is so severe. It would have to be something uncomfortable, though, just to keep the tension up. Of course, I would throw a number of false red levers in just to keep him on his toes. Go to Comment
The writeup seems a little confusing but I was able to get it after a few reads. It could probably be clearer if there was more. For instance, maybe a description of a specific soul who was held by Polleus (and why) followed by how the coins given to Alira's priests were used. Go to Comment
I can envision a magic system based on tapping into those awesome energies. Unlimited power can be had, if it doesn't burn the caster's mind into a cinder first. Go to Comment
I like these kinds of subs; they explore ideas that aren't about uber-powerful characters or powers. Not every mage will attain greatness but they can still be worth noting. Also, it would be interesting to see how a tuner mage PC could fill out and enhance a larger party. And, being more accessible to the lower classes means that the party may be more likely to interact with them. Go to Comment
Society/ Organizations (Ethnic/Cultural) (Regional)