10 - Resources
Your Resources value indicates how much capital you have at your disposal.
A higher value means that you enjoy a nicer home and lifestyle, and have easier access to things you need. The table on the next page shows the meaning of different values.
In-game events that affect your living standard will change the value. Normally you start out with the lower value for your Profession and Trade. However, this can be raised by spending Action points– each point raises Resources by one step, although your starting value cannot exceed what is indicated in your Trade.
Optionally you may start the game at 1 Resource Value lower than the lowest value indicated by your Trade. If you do, gain an additional 2 Action points to spend on building your character.
Resources can only be raised with skill points before you start playing. Once the game has begun you can only increase Resources by purchasing Talents.
| Value | Standard of Living |
|---|---|
| 1 | DESTITUTE. You are completely dependent on others for your survival. Every day is a struggle for food and you have few, if any, belongings. This may have caused you to contract diseases, starve, or turn to drugs or alcohol for relief. |
| 2 | POOR. You live very simply. Most days there is food on the table, but far too little. If you have children, they are forced to live in squalor. You might own a change of clothes and a few pos- sessions. Loss of income would be disastrous for you and your family. |
| 3 | STRUGGLING. You have a humble home and a fixed income. You have no money for savings, but you can dress your family for special occasions and your children have some access to educa- tion – at least for a few years. |
| 4 | FINANCIALLY STABLE. You own your own home and have a job that provides a steady income. Most likely you have some money stashed away. Occasionally you may treat yourself to some sweets, a trip, or a beautiful object. In times of crisis there are people to lend you money. |
| 5 | MIDDLE-CLASS. You own a home and a business. You may have one or several employees and know how to invest for the future. You have savings and access to loans. You and your family are living well. |
| 6 | WELL-OFF. You have a big house or apartment. You probably have multiple sources of income and several employees. You do not think of money as a scarce resource, but as a game to in- crease your capital and influence. You keep fine company and have little contact with the poor. Your family can go on vacations and you can afford all the latest innovations. |
| 7 | WEALTHY. You have large amounts of inherited money and real estate. You probably own multiple properties, keep lots of servants, and have many sources of income. There are few things you cannot afford. You are well-connected with the city’s and country’s elite, and on good terms with senior officials, politicians, and nobles. The only time you see any poor people is through your carriage window. |
| 8 | FILTHY RICH. You are one of the richest people in the country and have direct contact with its rulers. You own one or several castles or mansions. There is no expense too great. You can treat yourself to lavish extravagance without ever worrying about the cost. |