Influence Notes

What is Influence?
In short, Influence is the ability to make one's will and desires carried out by often unwitting third parties. It is the favoured tactic of elders; at it's highest levels the victim will be thwarted at every turn by a series of unfortunate events, who will be filled with a vague sense of persecution but have no idea who is attacking them, or even if there is a 'who'.

Where is Influence?
Another easy question: wherever there is power to be had. From gentlemen's clubs to anarchist meetings, bankers' offices to union halls – they all offer possibilities to an enterprising Kindred. Unwitting or not, many Kine have some Influence to offer; a humble railway porter can inform on any strange people or packages being transported, a office clerk can note down who frequently meets their boss etc.

For my own sanity, Influence will be divided into 'Sectors'; of which will be listed on the Influence Sheet. They are general sectors; I accept that some will overlap. Naturally, Sectors will change over time.

How do I get Influence?
Simply put; a collection of your other Backgrounds and Abilities. If your character makes an effort to build up Allies, Contacts and Retainers in a particular area, I will duly note it and put the appropriate section down on their sheet. I will update this during downtime. Gaining and losing Influence dots does not cost any XP.

So, how do I manage Influence?
You can't. You can't buy it with XP - though you can earn it with RP. I will decide what is the state of your Influences at the end of each episode from a grab-bag of other Backgrounds, Abilities and your character's actions in-game.

However, if you wish to aim for a particular sector, you can ask for pointers on what could achieve it. Please remember, however; my advice is *not* a recommendation on what course you should take.

How do I use Influence?
Like Lores, I am not going to provide large lists on what can or can't be done with Influence. While you are free to discuss possible moves, I will never recommend a course of action. My input will be limited to providing information from general knowledge and your characters' own abilities.

See Also: Background Notes, Influence Sectors