Se7en Sagas

Introduction

June is not only a month to celebrate Pride and inclusivity, but it’s also a perfect time to introduce innovative narratives that embrace these themes; at Se7en Sagas, we’re proud to stand as allies with the LGBTQ+ community. Embracing the spirit of creativity and diversity, we are excited to present our latest project, one of explosive creativity and diversity. Set in the enigmatic city of Neo-Prague, “VeilBound” merges the mystical with the technological, weaving a narrative filled with arcane secrets, advanced tech, and a world influenced by a fractured reality. “VeilBound” blends the rich narrative elements of “The Invisibles” with other influential works such as “Planetary” and “Global Frequency,” creating a universe where ancient magic meets advanced technology.

Why “VeilBound”?

“VeilBound” is designed as a testament to the power of diversity and the strength found in differences. By integrating varied magical disciplines and technological advancements, the game reflects the myriad ways people experience and influence the world. This approach not only adds depth to gameplay but also mirrors the diverse identities and perspectives within our community.

Why “The Invisibles”?
“The Invisibles,” created by Grant Morrison, is renowned not only for its deep narrative and complex characters but also for its forward-thinking representation of diverse identities and anti-authoritarian themes. This comic has inspired us to think about how different realities and identities can intersect in fascinating ways, especially within the framework of a tabletop role-playing game.

Incorporating Diverse Influences
Our project does not stop at “The Invisibles.” We draw upon a rich tapestry of sources including the esoteric detective work of “Planetary” by Warren Ellis, the mystical and technological blend found in the narratives of classic and contemporary magic, and the dynamic interplay of secrecy and revelation that fuels “Global Frequency.” Each of these elements contributes to a setting that is both familiar and thrillingly new.

The World of Neo-Prague Neo-Prague is a city where the past and the future converge amidst the remnants of the shattered Veil, a metaphysical barrier that once separated different dimensions. With the Veil fractured, reality has blended with otherworldly elements, creating a playground for intrigue, adventure, and existential threats. This setting provides a backdrop for stories of resistance, discovery, and identity shaping, as players navigate through a world where every corner and shadow can hold a secret or a doorway to the extraordinary.

Factions and Powers

1. The Network

• Overview: The Network is an underground coalition of rebels, hackers, and mages committed to thwarting The Dominion’s plans and protecting the remnants of freedom in Neo-Prague. Their structure is decentralized, with cells operating semi-autonomously across various districts, each specializing in different aspects of resistance—intelligence gathering, resource distribution, and covert operations.
• Philosophy: They believe in the power of information and the inherent right of all beings to freedom and self-determination. The Network is often the first line of defense against The Dominion’s encroachments, making them a beacon for those who wish to resist oppression.
• Unique Resources: Access to clandestine safehouses, a vast network of informants, and a repository of forbidden knowledge and technology.

2. The Dominion

• Overview: A formidable alliance of corporate oligarchs, renegade sorcerers, and otherworldly entities, The Dominion seeks to reshape Neo-Prague—and eventually the world—according to its vision of a new order. They wield considerable influence over the city’s infrastructure, media, and some magical institutions.
• Philosophy: Their philosophy is one of control and advancement at any cost, viewing the fractured Veil as an opportunity to harness unprecedented powers and enforce a regime where they stand at the top of the hierarchy.
• Unique Resources: Advanced technological devices, experimental magic, and a private army equipped with the latest enhancements and weaponry.

3. The Pulse

• Overview: Less an organized faction and more a mystical phenomenon, The Pulse is an enigmatic force understood and revered by few. It represents the heartbeat of Neo-Prague’s magical essence, often guiding those sensitive to its rhythms towards destinies intertwined with the fate of the city.
• Philosophy: The Pulse is believed to embody the will of Neo-Prague itself, seeking balance and the healing of the Veil. Those attuned to The Pulse often find themselves at pivotal events, wielding influence in seemingly coincidental ways.
• Unique Resources: Prophecies, visions, and spontaneous magical occurrences that can aid or obscure the path forward.

Magic & Technology

1. Arcane Magic

• Mechanics: Arcane Magic is governed by rigorous study and strict adherence to ancient principles. It involves memorizing spells, understanding magical theory, and utilizing specific components or conditions to cast spells. This school is reliable, with predictable and potent effects, appealing to those who value stability and tradition.
• Philosophy: Practitioners believe in preserving and respecting the old ways, focusing on the accumulation and preservation of magical knowledge.
• Skills: Arcane Magic is tied to skills like “Arcane Knowledge,” “Ritual Magic,” and “Historical Lore.” These skills enable characters to understand and perform complex magical operations that require precision and adherence to traditional magical rules.
• Perks: Perks related to Arcane Magic might include “Efficient Ritualist,” which reduces the Effort Point cost for rituals, or “Lorekeeper,” which gives the player bonuses when accessing or recalling arcane information crucial for spellcasting or solving magical dilemmas.
• Effort Pool: Arcane spells have a predetermined Effort Point cost, reflecting their structured nature. The cost is fixed unless influenced by specific perks or exceptional circumstances within the narrative.
• Gameplay Interaction: When casting an arcane spell, players decide which spell (aligned with their skills) they want to cast, deduct the necessary Effort Points, and describe their actions. The GM assesses the success based on the character’s skill levels, the Effort Points spent, and any situational modifiers.

2. Chaos Magic

• Mechanics: Chaos Magic eschews traditional structures for a more intuitive approach. Practitioners use their willpower and emotional states to influence reality, often drawing on personal symbols or spontaneous acts of magic. This school is highly flexible but unpredictable; spells can vary in effect and intensity based on the caster’s mindset and environment.
• Philosophy: Chaos magicians see magic as a personal expression of power that transcends conventional limits, embodying freedom and adaptability.
• Skills: Chaos Magic involves skills such as “Impulse Control,” “Emotional Resonance,” and “Symbolic Invocation.” These skills help in managing and harnessing the unpredictable nature of chaos magic, focusing on the caster’s ability to manipulate their internal states and external symbols for magical effects.
• Perks: Example perks include “Chaos Conduit,” which allows the player to reroll a failed chaos magic action once per session, or “Emotional Amplifier,” which enhances the power of spells cast in heightened emotional states at the risk of greater unpredictability.
• Effort Pool: The Effort Point cost for chaos magic can vary based on the desired effect’s scale and the caster’s emotional state. Chaos magic might also allow for flexible Effort Point allocation, where players can push for more powerful effects at greater personal risk.
• Gameplay Interaction: Chaos magic casting is dynamic, with players describing their desired effect and emotional state. The GM sets the difficulty and potential consequences based on the effort and the narrative context. Success can bring powerful results, but failure might lead to significant narrative complications.

3. Techweaving

• Mechanics: Techweaving blends technology and magic to create devices that can manipulate magical energies or enhance technological functions. This involves crafting gadgets that function through magical principles or channeling spells through technological interfaces. The practice requires both a technical and magical understanding, making it a complex but highly innovative school.
• Philosophy: Techweavers believe in progress and innovation, pushing the boundaries of what magic and technology can achieve together. They see the future as an uncharted territory of limitless possibilities, where the fusion of disciplines can solve any problem.
• Skills: Techweaving relies on skills such as “Technological Integration,” “Magical Engineering,” and “Innovative Crafting.” These skills are crucial for designing, creating, and operating tech-magic hybrid devices.
• Perks: Techweaving-specific perks might include “Master Artificer,” which gives bonuses to creating or repairing tech-magic devices, or “Quantum Synergist,” allowing a character to occasionally bypass the need for conventional power sources in their gadgets.
• Effort Pool: Building and using techweaving devices generally involves an upfront Effort Point cost for creation, with additional costs for operation depending on the device’s complexity and power.
• Gameplay Interaction: Players engage in techweaving by designing gadgets with specific magical effects, which they then craft during gameplay. The GM determines the complexity and potential impact of the device, which influences the Effort Points needed and the success of the creation process.

Character Creation in “VeilBound” Characters in “VeilBound” are as diverse as the world they inhabit, with customizable skills, unique perks, and deep passions that drive their narratives:

• Skills: From Hacking and Elemental Control to Occult Knowledge and Tactical Awareness.
• Perks: Abilities like Gadgeteer, Mind Shield, and Shadow Walker enhance gameplay and character development.
• Passions: Goals like Uncover the Secrets of the Shattered Veil or Sabotage Dominion Operations, Motivations like Seeking Redemption or Thirst for Knowledge, Relationships like Mentor in The Network or Rival from The Dominion, and Flaws like Deep-Set Paranoia or Magical Dependency, will enrich the role-playing experience and influence game mechanics.

Character Archetypes To help players start their journey, “VeilBound” offers several archetypes, each equipped with a set of skills, a unique perk, and a rich background of passions:

• The Techweaver: A master of blending magic with technology.
• The Arcane Scholar: A keeper of ancient magical knowledge.
• The Street Savant: A survival expert in the urban wilderness of Neo-Prague.

Magical Systems “VeilBound” introduces three distinct forms of magic, each reflecting different aspects of the game’s world:

• Arcane Magic: Rooted in tradition and study, perfect for those who value structure and reliability.
• Chaos Magic: Unpredictable and powerful, suited for players who enjoy risk and flexibility.
• Techweaving: A synthesis of gadgetry and spellcraft, offering creative and innovative magical solutions.

Adventures and Campaigns The adventures in “VeilBound” are designed to challenge and inspire, ranging from uncovering hidden truths beneath Neo-Prague to thwarting plots that span the physical and mystical realms:

• Echoes of the Veiled Past: Players investigate ancient ruins beneath Neo-Prague, uncovering secrets that could shift the balance of power in the city.
• The Golem’s Heart: A race against rival factions to retrieve a powerful artifact capable of animating or deactivating the city’s golems.
• Shadows Over the Undercity: Explore the hidden depths of Neo-Prague, facing both political intrigue and monstrous threats.

A Commitment to Inclusivity At Se7en Sagas, inclusivity is at the core of everything we create. “VeilBound” is more than just a game; it’s a celebration of diversity, a call for understanding, and an invitation to explore new perspectives through the immersive world of TTRPGs.

Join Us on This Adventure We invite you to dive into the world of “VeilBound,” where every play session promises new discoveries and the chance to live out incredible adventures. Stay tuned for more updates, and let’s create stories that celebrate the richness of diversity together.