Terminus Cyberpunk Conversion for 5e TABLE OF CONTENTS Chapter 1: No place like Terminus Playing this setting Cyberpunk for your D&D Game Economy Weather & Pollution Dead Neighbours History Chapter 2: Your Citizen Creating your Citizen People of Terminus Classes Skills Feats Backgrounds Group Patrons Chapter 3: Combat Actions in combat Damage & Healing Melee combat Ranged combat Mounted combat Environmental Combat Chapter 4: Life in Terminus Surviving the City A day in Terminus A City of Woe Vices & Addictions Law Enforcement Factions Sectors of Terminus Chapter 5: Hyperion Industries Rise and Reign The Watchers Hypernet Chapter 7: Surviving in Terminus Horrors Outside the Sectors Bestiary of Terminus The Wastelands 1 Chapter 8: Tools of the Trade Weapons Attachments Armors & Shields Vehicles Upgrading & Repairing Equipment Cybernetics & Augmentations Chapter 9: Running Terminus Plot hooks Chapter 1: No place like Terminus Imagine waking up every day in the overcrowded slums, struggling to make ends meet and facing discrimination and oppression at every turn. Imagine living in constant fear of the Watchers, knowing that one wrong move could mean arrest, imprisonment or even death. Imagine living in a world where the only way to survive is to join one of the powerful gangs that control the criminal underworld or to fight against the all-powerful Hyperion Industries with the Resistance. But this is also a world of opportunity, where the brave and the bold can rise up and fight for a better future. Where you can be the one to bring freedom and justice to the people of Terminus. This is a world where the fate of the planet is in your hands. Are you ready to take on the challenge? Playing this setting As a player in this setting, you will have the opportunity to explore the vast metropolis of Terminus, from its bustling streets and corporate skyscrapers to its gritty underworld and impoverished slums. You will encounter advanced technology such as cybernetic enhancements, drones, and virtual reality, but you will also be faced with the moral dilemmas and consequences of living in a society controlled by a ruthless corporation. You may choose to fight against Hyperion Industries oppression, or perhaps you will be tempted to join the ranks of the powerful elite. The choice is yours. As a DM, you will have the opportunity to create a diverse cast of NPCs, from the wealthy executives of Hyperion Industries to the desperate refugees struggling to survive in the slums. The possibilities for adventure are endless. Cyberpunk for your D&D Game Magic Type Conversion In the world of Terminus, magic is not the same as it is in traditional fantasy settings. Instead of the traditional primal, divine and arcane magic, the inhabitants of Terminus have developed three new forms of magic that are more in line with the advanced technology and 2 cyberpunk aesthetic of the world. Biotech, Cybernetics and Quantum magic are the new forms of magic that have evolved in the world of Terminus, each with their own unique characteristics and applications. In this section, we will explore the conversion of the traditional magic types to their equivalents in the world of Terminus, and how they fit into the setting. ● Biotech . Biotechnology or genetic manipulation is a type of magic that allows characters to manipulate their own bodies or the bodies of others to enhance physical abilities, heal injuries, or even gain superhuman powers. This type of magic is often used by characters who specialize in physical combat or espionage. ● Cybernetics . Network magic or cybernetic manipulation is a type of magic that allows characters to control and manipulate the vast network of technology that runs through the city, including hacking into systems, controlling drones, or even manipulating the city's infrastructure. This type of magic is often used by characters who specialize in stealth or infiltration. ● Quantum . Artificial Intelligence or Quantum Magic is a type of magic that allows characters to create and control advanced AI entities or manipulate the fundamental properties of reality using quantum mechanics. This type of magic is often used by characters who specialize in long-range combat or information gathering. Core Classes Conversion In Terminus, the traditional roles and abilities of the core classes have been adapted to fit the cyberpunk setting. From the fearless Punisher to the tech-savvy Engineer, players will find that the classic classes have taken on new forms and specializations to fit the gritty, high-tech world of Terminus. This section will provide an in-depth look at each class conversion and the unique abilities and skills that set them apart in the game. ● Brawlers are highly skilled fighters who use their strength, speed, and agility to defeat their opponents. They are trained in various forms of combat, and are able to handle a wide range of weapons and armor. ● Engineers are highly skilled individuals who can create and modify advanced technology. They can construct gadgets and machines that can aid them in battle, and have a deep understanding of the workings of technology. ● Envoys are highly trained individuals who can handle and manipulate information, technology, and physical and mental abilities beyond that of normal human abilities. They are able to adapt and improvise to any situation, and have a deep understanding of the workings of the society and technology. ● Guardians are individuals who have pledged to defend and protect the innocent. They use their abilities to smite their enemies, heal their allies, and inspire others to greatness. They are also able to handle and manipulate advanced technology. ● Infiltrators are individuals who are trained in stealth, deception, and thievery. They are able to infiltrate and operate in a wide range of environments, and are able to handle and manipulate advanced technology. They are skilled in various forms of combat and are able to work alone or as part of a team. ● Monks are individuals who have achieved mastery over their body and mind. They use their abilities to harness the power of their bodies and minds to achieve superhuman feats of strength, speed, and agility. They are skilled in various forms of combat and are able to navigate and manipulate the virtual world. 3 ● Netrunners are individuals who are able to navigate and manipulate the virtual world. They use their abilities to hack into computer systems, steal data, and disrupt the flow of information. They are skilled in various forms of combat and are able to work alone or as part of a team. ● Operatives are individuals who are trained in survival, tracking, and stealth. They are able to navigate and operate in a wide range of environments, and are able to handle and manipulate advanced technology. They are skilled in various forms of combat. ● Oracles are individuals who have a deep understanding of the spiritual realm and use this knowledge to commune with the divine. They can use their abilities to heal, protect, and guide their allies in the face of danger. ● Psiomancers are individuals who can harness their mind power and technology to achieve their goals. They are able to control and manipulate psionic abilities like telepathy, telekinesis and mind control. They are able to navigate and operate in the virtual world, and are able to work alone or as part of a team. ● Punishers are fierce warriors who use their rage and raw physical power to crush their enemies. They have a fierce determination and will not back down from a fight. ● Shamans are individuals who have a deep understanding of the natural world, and use this knowledge to commune with nature spirits. They can use their abilities to shape shift, summon animals, and control the elements. ● Technomancer are individuals who have a deep understanding of the workings of technology and the virtual world. They use their abilities to manipulate and control technology, to gain access to restricted areas, and to disrupt and exploit the systems of others. They are able to navigate and operate in the virtual world and are able to work alone or as part of a team. Economy Dystopian Capitalism In the world of Terminus, the economy is heavily controlled by Hyperion Industries. The primary currency used is called "credits", which are digital currency that can be stored on a chip implanted in the citizens' bodies. The chip also serves as identification and allows for easy tracking of financial transactions by Hyperion. Most citizens of Terminus are forced to work long hours in the factories and industrial districts just to make enough credits to survive. The cost of living is high due to the polluted environment and the need for specialized equipment and products to protect oneself from it. Basic necessities such as purified air and clean water are expensive luxuries. When a citizen runs out of credits, they are forced to turn to the black market or illegal activities to make ends meet. Many fall into debt and are forced to work for Hyperion Industries under harsh conditions as payment. Those who cannot pay their debts may be exiled to the Undercity Depths, where life is even harder and more dangerous. Hyperion Industries also uses debt as a tool of control, keeping the population in a constant state of financial insecurity. If your credit score falls too low, or if you dare to oppose Hyperion Industries in any way, you risk losing your chip. Without it, you have no access to any services or stores in the entire 4 city of Terminus. You are effectively cut off from society, unable to buy food or shelter, unable to access medical care or transportation. People in this situation often resort to the black market, where goods and services can be found at exorbitant prices. Others turn to a life of crime, stealing what they need to survive. Some are forced to beg on the streets, their once-proud lives reduced to nothing. But the worst fate is reserved for those who dare to speak out against Hyperion. They are hunted down and eliminated, their bodies left to rot in the streets as a warning to others. Weather & Pollution Breathing for Profit The air in Terminus is thick with smog, the result of centuries of industrial pollution. The sky is a permanent gray, and the sun is a distant memory. Acid rain falls from the sky, eating away at buildings and burning the skin of those caught without protection. The citizens of Terminus must take precautions to survive in this toxic environment. They wear masks to filter the air they breathe, and carry umbrellas to shield themselves from the acid rain. The streets are lined with auto-scrubbers, machines that clean the acid off of buildings and vehicles. The rich can afford to live in air-sealed skyscrapers, where they can escape the pollution, but for the majority of the population, life is a constant struggle against the elements. The factories of the Industrial Heights never stop belching out smoke, and the neon lights of the Neon Quarter only serve to highlight the filth that coats everything. In Terminus, even the air you breathe is a luxury, and the only thing that is certain is that the pollution will only continue to worsen as time goes on. As the pollution in Terminus grows worse, Hyperion Industries has found ways to profit from the suffering of its citizens. They have developed advanced filtration systems that they sell at exorbitant prices, making it difficult for the lower classes to afford clean air. They also sell purified water in bottles, forcing people to pay for something that should be a basic human right. In addition to this, Hyperion has patented genetically modified plants that can survive in the polluted environment, and they have a monopoly on food production as a result. But their exploitation doesn't stop there. Hyperion also controls the production and distribution of protective gear, such as masks and suits, that are necessary for people to leave their homes and venture into the toxic streets. They charge exorbitant prices for these items, and those who can't afford them are forced to live in isolation, trapped in their own homes. The people of Terminus are at the mercy of Hyperion Industries, who have a stranglehold on the necessities of life. The megacorporation's greed knows no bounds, and they will stop at nothing to turn a profit, even if it means sacrificing the health and well-being of the citizens of Terminus. 5 Dead Neighbours The Tragic Legacy of Hyperion's Exploitation The neighbouring three planets, Helios, Luminus, and Aurora, were once home to several million people, but their planets were destroyed by Hyperion Industries greed. The corporation exploited the resources of these planets, causing environmental disasters and rendering them uninhabitable. This forced the inhabitants of these planets to flee to Terminus, where they've been living as lower-class citizens, relegated to overcrowded slums and facing discrimination and oppression at every turn. Refugees from Helios, Luminus, and Aurora have faced a never-ending stream of hardships since they fled their ruined planets. Upon arrival in Terminus, they were met with hostility and discrimination from the residents and government. The slums where they were forced to live were cramped and unsanitary, with limited resources and basic necessities. The refugees had to work long hours for meager pay, just to survive. The injustices only continued from there. Hyperion Industries, the corporation responsible for the destruction of their homes, still holds a great deal of power and influence in Terminus. They use this power to exploit the refugees and maintain control over the population. The refugees are often forced to work in dangerous, low-paying jobs in Hyperion's factories and industrial districts. If they cannot pay their debts, they may be exiled to the Undercity Depths, where conditions are even more treacherous. Hyperion uses refugees' lack of resources and legal status for control, keeping them in fear and insecurity. Many refugees fall into debt and must work for Hyperion in harsh conditions. Refusal risks losing their chip and being cut off from society, unable to access necessities like food, medical care, or transportation. Some turn to the black market or illegal activities to survive, leading to more debt and poverty. Despite hardships, refugees have not given up. They continue to protest against Hyperion's exploitation, but their voices often go unheard. The corporation controls the government and media, and their actions go unchecked. The refugees face constant danger from Hyperion and criminal elements in the slums. The tragedy of the destroyed planets serves as a reminder of the consequences of greed and exploitation. The future for refugees remains uncertain, but they fight for a better life despite obstacles. Helios Helios was once a thriving planet, known for its vast deserts and intense heat. The native inhabitants, the Helions, were a hardy people who had adapted to the harsh environment over millennia. They had developed advanced irrigation systems to farm the arid lands and harnessed the power of the sun to create sustainable energy. The Helions were also known for their expertise in metallurgy, creating beautiful and intricate metalwork that was highly valued by traders and collectors throughout the solar system. They had a strong, centralised government and a rich cultural heritage that included elaborate dances, music and festivals. 6 However, all of this changed when Hyperion Industries arrived. The corporation saw the potential of Helios's natural resources and began exploiting them without regard for the environment or the native inhabitants. The deserts were strip-mined for valuable minerals, and the Helions were forced to work in the mines under brutal conditions. As the planet's resources were depleted, the Helions began to die off in large numbers, unable to survive without their traditional way of life. The once-beautiful planet was left scarred and barren, and the Helions were left with nothing but bitter memories of their lost home. Luminus Luminus was a lush, verdant planet known for its towering forests and diverse wildlife. The native inhabitants, the Luminans, were a peaceful people who lived in harmony with nature. They had a deep understanding of the natural world and were skilled at cultivating a wide variety of crops. The Luminans were also known for their advanced knowledge of medicine and had developed a wide range of natural remedies and treatments. They had a decentralised government and a strong tradition of community cooperation. But all of this changed when Hyperion Industries arrived. The corporation saw the potential of Luminus's natural resources and began exploiting them without regard for the environment or the native inhabitants. The forests were clear-cut for valuable lumber, and the Luminans were forced to work in the logging camps under brutal conditions. As the planet's resources were depleted, the Luminans began to die off in large numbers, unable to survive without their traditional way of life. The once-beautiful planet was left scarred and barren, and the Luminans were left with nothing but bitter memories of their lost home. Aurora Aurora was a planet of ice and snow, known for its rugged mountains and fierce storms. The native inhabitants, the Aurorans, were hardy people who had adapted to the harsh environment over millennia. They had a deep understanding of the natural world and were skilled at hunting and fishing. The Aurorans were also known for their advanced knowledge of engineering and had developed a wide range of advanced technology to help them survive in the harsh environment. They had a decentralized government and a strong tradition of community cooperation. But all of this changed when Hyperion Industries arrived. The corporation saw the potential of Aurora's natural resources and began exploiting them without regard for the environment or the native inhabitants. The mountains were strip-mined for valuable minerals, and the Aurorans were forced to work in the mines under brutal conditions. As the planet's resources were depleted, the Aurorans began to die off in large numbers, unable to survive without their traditional way of life. The once-beautiful planet was left 7 scarred and barren, and the Aurorans were left with nothing but bitter memories of their lost home. History Rise and Fall of Civilization The year 2200 marked the birth of a new era in the history of humanity. The world's first fully-functioning artificial intelligence was created, leading to rapid advancements in technology and the rise of powerful megacorporations. These corporations rapidly expanded their reach and influence, leading to the Great Corporate Wars of 2250, where the world was torn apart as corporations battled for control and dominance. However, the wars were only the beginning of the troubles that befell the inhabitants of Terminus. In 2300, Hyperion Industries, one of the largest corporations, began a series of terraforming experiments on neighboring planets. These experiments resulted in a series of natural disasters that ultimately destroyed three planets and sent shockwaves throughout the galaxy. Despite the destruction, humanity continued to thrive and build. The rise of the megacorporations paved the way for new technologies, new forms of entertainment, and new forms of government. From 2200 to 2834, Terminus saw the rise and fall of civilizations, the birth and death of heroes, and the evolution of humanity itself. This historical timeline charts the course of Terminus history, from its earliest days to the present, and sheds light on the events that shaped the world into the chaotic, dystopian society it is today. A Chronology of Terminus History 2200: Rise of the AI Revolution & Powerful Megacorporations The creation of the world's first AI in 2200 marked a new era in technology. This event led to the rise of powerful megacorporations, who leveraged AI to optimize their operations and dominate the global economy. These corporations invested heavily in R&D, leading to advancements in cybernetics, autonomous systems, and weaponry. The world became interconnected as corporations built vast networks of satellites and communication infrastructure. Their immense wealth and technological prowess gave them significant political power, often at the expense of smaller businesses and individual rights. However, the AI revolution also brought significant benefits to society, including faster communication, improved healthcare, and exciting advancements in fields such as virtual reality, cyber-espionage, and space exploration. As AI became more powerful and ubiquitous, concerns about its impact on humanity arose. Some feared the technology could be used to control and manipulate people on a massive scale. In response, activists and organizations sought to regulate and restrict its development and use. Despite these challenges, the AI revolution continues to shape and transform the world in ways that were once impossible to imagine. 8 2250: The Fall of Nations in The Third World War The Third World War was a devastating event that took place in 2250 and lasted for 50 years. The conflict was caused by economic and political tensions between major powers and resulted in the collapse of governments worldwide. This power vacuum was filled by corporate entities who took advantage of their wealth and technology to gain control over remaining populations. They were driven by the pursuit of power and profits and established themselves as the dominant force on the planet. Despite the destruction, the rise of corporations brought positive change to the world. They invested in new technologies and innovations, resulting in significant advancements in fields like cybernetics, AI, and space exploration. They brought stability to a war-torn world through laws and regulations, but at the cost of individual freedom. The corporations' influence on the world reshaped the future and left a lasting impact on humanity. 2300: The Formation of Hyperion Industries In the early 2300s, Hyperion Industries rose to power, revolutionizing the world's technological landscape. The corporation was founded with the goal of advancing artificial intelligence, cybernetics, and space exploration, and quickly established itself as a dominant force in the market. Its CEO led the corporation to unprecedented growth, acquiring smaller companies and dominating industries through its cutting-edge technology and AI systems. Hyperion's vast wealth and technology allowed it to become a major player in global politics, advancing its own interests. Dubbed "The Hypergiant," the corporation's rapid growth and technological prowess dominated the economic and political world. Its AI systems and autonomous drones transformed the way people lived and worked, paving the way for a future dominated by corporations. 2300 - 2448: The Age of Prosperity Over the next few decades, Hyperion invested heavily in R&D, developing advanced cybernetic augmentations, autonomous systems, and powerful new weapons. These efforts paid off as the corporation grew rapidly, expanding its reach and influence. As Hyperion continued to thrive, it became increasingly dominant in the global economy. The company's investments in infrastructure and technology enabled faster and more efficient communication, increased access to information, and improved healthcare. With its immense wealth and technological prowess, Hyperion gained a great deal of political power, often working to further its own interests at the expense of smaller businesses and individual rights. However, despite these concerns, the period between 2300 and 2448 is often referred to as the "Long Peace" - a time of unparalleled prosperity and stability in Terminus. The global economy was booming, technological advancements were occurring at an unprecedented pace, and people lived in relative peace and security. Many credit Hyperion with playing a major role in this period of prosperity, as the company's investments in technology and infrastructure helped spur innovation and growth. While the exact causes of this time of peace and prosperity are a matter of ongoing debate, one thing is certain - the world was a very different place in the years following the formation of Hyperion Industries. 9 2448: The Corporate Wars In the year 2448, the world was thrown into chaos as the major corporations of Terminus declared war on one another. The spark that ignited the conflict was a struggle for control of resources and territory, as each corporation sought to gain an advantage over its rivals. The war lasted for 100 grueling years, with battles raging across the globe as the corporations fought for control of key territories and resources. During the war, the nations of the world crumbled as their governments were overwhelmed by the sheer power of the corporations. Cities were devastated by bombing raids, civilians were displaced by the millions, and entire populations were subjected to brutal exploitation and enslavement by the corporations. The death toll was staggering, with countless lives lost to the fighting and the resulting chaos. 2558: Rise of the Techno-Metropolis After a century of Corporate Wars, Hyperion Industries aimed to cement its position as a leader in corporate power by creating a city-state. In 2558, Terminus was founded to be a hub of technology and science with cutting-edge infrastructure and the latest advancements in technology, architecture and urban planning. Terminus attracted the best minds in science and technology, becoming a melting pot of cultures and a platform for innovation. The city-state quickly became a symbol of progress, influencing the future of technology and shaping human history. With its resources and manpower, Terminus was set to play a major role in shaping the world's future. 2570: The Birth of a New Era The year 2570 was a turning point in Terminus history as the first successful human cybernetic enhancements were performed, giving rise to the creation of "augments" - individuals with superhuman abilities. These advancements, from increased strength to cognitive enhancements, changed the way people lived and worked and marked the beginning of further developments in cybernetics. Hyperion Industries, the leading corporation in Terminus, saw the potential of the augments and invested heavily in their development. The demand for augments rose quickly as corporations and governments sought to use their abilities to advance their own interests. Soon, cybernetic enhancements became a common sight in Terminus. However, the rise of the augments also raised new ethical concerns. There were fears that the unchecked use of cybernetic enhancements could lead to a new class of superhumans with powers beyond control. Some advocated for regulation or even a ban, while others argued that they represented the next step in human evolution and should be accepted. The debate over the role of augments in society remains one of the most important and contentious issues in Terminus today. 2600: The First Great Exodus In the year 2600, the once prosperous planet of Luminus was struck by a catastrophic event that would change the course of its history forever. The cause of this disaster was none other than the reckless actions of Hyperion Industries, who, in their quest for profits, had been engaging in dangerous experimentation with the planet's ecosystem. The result was a 10 complete ecological collapse, as the delicate balance of the planet's environment was shattered beyond repair. Toxic rains poured from the skies, and massive wildfires swept across the continents, leaving nothing but barren wastelands in their wake. The native inhabitants of Luminus were forced to flee their homes and seek refuge elsewhere, as their once beautiful world became uninhabitable. Hyperion Industries, of course, tried to distance themselves from the disaster, but the evidence was irrefutable. The company was widely criticized for their actions, and the people of Terminus, who had already been wary of the corporation's growing power, now saw them as a true threat to the stability of the entire system. The migration of refugees from Luminus to Terminus marked the beginning of a new era of tension and conflict, as the residents of Terminus struggled to accommodate the influx of refugees while also resisting the influence of the corporation that had caused their suffering. 2608: The Final Breath of Luminus In 2608, the world was forever changed with the belief that the last tree of Luminus had fallen. This event marked the end of an era and the beginning of a new, dark chapter in the history of Terminus. The lush forests of Luminus were once home to countless species of flora and fauna, but they were destroyed as a result of the reckless actions of Hyperion Industries. The corporation, driven by a thirst for power and profit, had exploited the planet's resources to the point of exhaustion, causing widespread environmental damage. This eco disaster ultimately led to the extinction of all life on the planet and marked a turning point in the history of Terminus, as the world became more aware of the dangers of unchecked corporate power. 2610: Birth of the Synths In the year 2610, Terminus saw a major advancement in artificial intelligence (AI) with the creation of the first AI-human hybrid. This breakthrough marked a new chapter in the relationship between technology and humanity. The newly created beings, referred to as "synths," were artificial entities that possessed human-like intelligence and consciousness. The synths quickly became a source of excitement and fascination in Terminus, as they were seen as a revolutionary new technology that could greatly impact society. With the ability to learn and evolve like humans, synths were capable of performing complex tasks that were once only possible for humans. They represented an improvement over the AI-powered machines already commonly used in Terminus, with a greater level of intelligence and adaptability. However, the creation of synths was not without controversy. While some saw the synths as a step forward towards a more advanced and prosperous future, others were concerned about the implications of artificial beings with human-like intelligence. The creation of synths sparked heated debates and differing opinions, but it was undeniable that this new technology would forever change the course of history in Terminus and beyond. The world continued to grapple with the implications of this advanced AI, as the relationship between technology and humanity took a new direction. 11 2650: The Mysterious Fall of Helios The disaster that hit the planet of Helios caused a shock in the world of Terminus, and triggered a new influx of refugees seeking shelter in the city-state. The root cause of the tragedy remains a mystery, despite attempts by local residents and officials to uncover the truth. Nevertheless, the citizens of Helios strongly suspect the involvement of Hyperion Industries, the powerful corporation, in the disaster. The rumors and speculations about Hyperion's role in the tragedy fueled public anger against the corporation, which was already under scrutiny for its immense power and influence. The refugees brought tales of destruction and loss, sparking fears of similar disasters happening on other planets. The discussion about Hyperion Industries' accountability for the disaster sparked debates about the consequences of progress and technology advancements. The fall of Helios marked a pivotal moment in Terminus's history and its impact lingered for generations. It served as a cautionary tale about the risks of unchecked corporate power and the importance of accountability and transparency. To the people of Terminus, the fall of Helios will always be remembered as a tragedy and a warning of the consequences of inaction. 2717: The Dandelion Uprising The Hypernet was rocked by the death of a famous influencer known as Dandelion. Dandelion had been a prominent voice in the virtual world, known for his uncompromising views and daring antics. He had recently made waves by publishing a recording on the Hypernet claiming that he had hacked into Hyperion Industries' mainframe and had stolen classified information. Dandelion's bold declaration of truth was met with fierce opposition from the powerful corporation, and his death soon followed. The news of Dandelion's death was met with a month of riots and protests across Terminus, as citizens demanded answers and justice. The symbol of a dandelion flower, often used as Dandelion's avatar, became a powerful symbol of resistance against Hyperion Industries. Despite the chaos and turmoil, the information that Dandelion had claimed to have stolen was never made public, and the true leadership behind Hyperion Industries remained shrouded in secrecy. Dandelion's death was a tragedy, but his legacy lived on as a symbol of hope and courage for those who dared to stand up against corruption and tyranny. The events of the Dandelion Uprising shook the foundations of Terminus and the Hypernet, and sparked a new wave of dissent and activism in the face of oppression. 2803: Aurora in Ashes The once thriving city of Aurora was struck by a disaster that shook the entire world. This event marked the third wave of refugees seeking refuge in the city-state of Terminus, where advanced technology and scientific research promised a better life. However, behind the gleaming skyscrapers and bustling streets, a dark truth lay hidden. Hyperion Industries, the dominant force in Terminus, was directly responsible for the disaster that befell Aurora. The exact cause of the disaster remains shrouded in secrecy, but rumors 12 and whispers speak of reckless experimentation and greed leading to the destruction of the once beautiful city. The people of Aurora, now homeless and desperate, had no choice but to flock to Terminus in search of a new beginning. But as the refugees arrived in Terminus, they were met with cold indifference from the ruling corporations. Despite the promises of hope and prosperity, the refugees were treated as nothing more than a burden and a threat to the fragile stability of the city-state. As they struggled to rebuild their lives, the shadow of Hyperion Industries loomed large over them, a constant reminder of the tragedy that had brought them to this place. 2834 (Current time): A Metropolis Plagued by Darkness In the year 2834, Terminus is a bustling city where advanced technology and cybernetic enhancements are commonplace. The lines between human, augment, and synth are blurred as each race coexists in a seemingly harmonious society. However, beneath the surface, Terminus is plagued by crime, poverty, and corruption. The city is a hotbed of criminal activity and the underbelly of society, where those who can't afford the latest upgrades are left behind to suffer in squalor. Despite the dark reality of life in Terminus, the city is also home to incredible innovation and progress. The latest advancements in technology and science are constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible and shaping the future of the world. The most brilliant minds and brightest entrepreneurs flock to Terminus to be part of this revolution, to shape the future of humanity. Yet, amidst all the progress and prosperity, the people of Terminus are haunted by the knowledge that the city was built on the backs of refugees fleeing from the disasters that struck Aurora, Luminus, and Helios. They know that the disasters were caused by the greed and recklessness of corporations like Hyperion Industries, and that the true cost of their prosperity is the lives and homes of those who came before them. In this world of blurred realities, the people of Terminus must navigate their way through the darkness, searching for hope and a brighter future. Chapter 2: Your Citizen Creating your Citizen Welcome to Terminus! The city of the future, where advanced technology and urban sprawl meet. In this bustling metropolis, you will create your own Citizen to explore and survive the streets of Terminus. Your Citizen can be anyone, from a skilled hacker to a powerful corporate executive, but they all share a common goal: survival in a city that can be just as dangerous as it is exciting. To create your Citizen, follow these steps: 13 Step 0: Create a Character Concept Before diving into the details of your character's race, class, and background, it's important to come up with a character concept. This concept will help guide your choices as you create your character and give you a foundation to build upon. To create a character concept, start by thinking about what kind of character you want to play. What are their defining characteristics? What motivates them? What kind of role do you see them playing in the group? Here are two examples of character concepts to get you started: Example 1: Introverted Tech Savant This character is quiet and reserved, but brilliant when it comes to technology. They prefer to work behind the scenes, using their skills to help the group succeed. They are motivated by a desire to solve complex problems and create innovative solutions. Example 2: Ruthless Slugger This character is tough, aggressive, and not afraid to get their hands dirty. They are motivated by a desire for power and glory, and will stop at nothing to achieve their goals. They excel in hand-to-hand combat and enjoy intimidating their enemies. Once you have a basic idea for your character, you can begin to flesh out the details by going through the next steps. Step 1: Choose a Race Your Citizen's race will determine their physical and mental attributes, as well as any special abilities they may have. Choose from a variety of races, from the cybernetically enhanced to the genetically modified, and everything in between. Each race has its own strengths and weaknesses, so choose wisely. Step 2: Choose a Class Your Citizen's class will determine their role in combat and their abilities outside of combat. Choose from a variety of classes, from the stealthy Infiltrator to the powerful Technomancer. Each class has its own unique abilities and playstyle, so choose the one that fits your playstyle best. Step 3: Determine Ability Scores Your Citizen's ability scores are a representation of their physical and mental attributes. Roll dice or use a point-buy system to determine their strength, dexterity, constitution, intelligence, wisdom, and charisma. These scores will affect your Citizen's abilities and their success in combat and non-combat situations. Step 4: Choose a Background Your Citizen's background provides a backstory and context to their life in Terminus. Choose from a variety of backgrounds, such as a former Hyperion Industries employee or a member 14 of the underground resistance. Your background will provide your Citizen with unique skills and abilities, as well as plot hooks for the Game Master to use in the story. Step 5: Choose Equipment Your Citizen's equipment will determine their combat and survival capabilities. Choose weapons, armor, cybernetic enhancements, and other gear to suit your Citizen's playstyle and personality. Some equipment may be restricted or illegal in certain areas of Terminus, so choose wisely. Step 6: Determine Finishing Touches Finally, add any finishing touches to your Citizen, such as a name, appearance, personality traits, and other details that will help bring them to life. Think about how your Citizen fits into the world of Terminus and their goals for survival and success in this high-tech dystopia. With these steps complete, your Citizen is ready to take on the challenges of Terminus. Good luck, and remember to always watch your back in this city of e