Fantasy Core RPG: Jianghu Setting-Special Techniques

Fantasy Core RPG

© Jerry Harris 2013

Published here as Open Game Content.

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Jianghu Setting

Learning Special Techniques

Major villains and perhaps students from secret martial arts schools should always have special techniques for attack or defense (or at least a gimmick or a magical weapon).  The players will quite rightly wonder how they can acquire similar abilities for their characters.  The Ref should provide an opportunity for them to learn them.

First, the characters have to be of at least 5^th level.  They can be of any class.  Being 5^th and knowing a special technique almost guarantees fame as a warrior.

Second, they have to find a master who knows the technique and then prove their worth to them.  The Ref should introduce these masters well before the characters are eligible to learn from them.

Third, they have to train, which usually involves interesting, learning tasks from the master.  Figure on at least three, short missions (enough for one gaming session).  At least one of them should be seemingly nonsensical and miserably frustrating.

Fourth, they are given the secret technique, but can the characters comprehend it?  DC 18 check, the characters add their level + the number of tasks they completed on the first try.  If they fail, the characters may try again once they achieve a higher level (and repeat any task that they failed the first time), but may only do so once.  Further, characters can only learn up to two special techniques, so choose carefully.     

Here’s a few possibilities.  Go nuts creating some of your own.   

Lightfoot Kung Fu: Character is able to fly once in an encounter/turn for ½ level rds.  Must have a turn of rest before flying again.

Wudan Mind Control: Character can execute a Charm Person or Distraction in a non-combat situation for ½ level rds.  Opponent must make a DC 12 Will Sv if of a higher or equal level, DC 18 if of a lower level.  Can work on a group if the highest level person in it is Mind Controlled.  This technique only works on humans, demi-humans, and humanoids.   

Wudan Mind Over Matter: Character can use telekinesis.  About 5 lbs. per ½ level for ½ level rds.  If stressed, DC 12 Will Sv each rd.  If attempting something heavier than limit, DC 18 Will Sv per rd.  Must rest 1 turn after stressed or over limit exertions.    

Combat Acupuncture: Can use long needles to paralyze opponents 1 turn, DC 12 Fort Sv for victims that are hit (DC 18 if the practitioner is of 10^th level).  Can also be used for torture, DC 18 Will Sv for victim to keep from immediately giving up information.  If the victim saves 3 rds in a row, they are immune.  This technique only works on humans, demi-humans, and humanoids.   

Celerity: Character can act twice in a rd.  They may do this ½ level times in an encounter or turn.  They must rest for a turn afterward.