Lords of Gossamer & Shadow

by Jason Durall
 Rite Publishing Presents:

Addendum: Shape Shifting

Calais (Author): Jason Durall
Lucien (Editor): Perry Grosshans
Drake (Cover Artist): Lee Pfenninger
Door Wardens (Interior Artists): Lee Pfenniger,
Matt Bulahao, Jean-Baptiste Hinnebo, Jason Rainville
Dayle (Trade Dress): James “Devin Night” Hazelett
Vala (Layout and Publisher): Steven D. Russell

Special Thanks to Christopher “Kit” Kindred

for always being awesome with feedback.

Based on Lords of Gossamer & Shadow by Jason Durall

Addendum: Shape Shifting Copyright © 2016 Steven D. Russell All rights reserved. Lords of Gossamer and Shadow Copyright © 2012-2013 Steven D. Russell All rights
reserved. Erick Wujcik’s Diceless Role-Playing and associated marks and logos are trademarks of Diceless by Design Publishing, LLC, and are used under license.
See http://Rpg.drivethrustuff.com/product_info.php?products_id=1447 for more information on Erick Wujcik’s Diceless Role-Playing. Some rights reserved. The illustration by
Jean-Baptiste Hinnebo are licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-No Derivative Works 3.0 License. http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/3.0/
 Addendum – Shape Shifting
The Great Powers—such as Eidolon and Umbra
Mastery—dominate the Gossamer worlds, intrinsically
linked to universal principles, permeating and shaping all
the stuff of reality. The Lesser Powers—such as
Invocation, Wrighting, Sorcery, Cantrips, and others—
draw strength from their users or from Gossamer reality
itself rather than being tied to those greater abstract
cosmic principles. For this reason, they are less universal,
though are still widespread. Shape Shifting is one of the
more common Lesser Powers, used in some form
throughout many of the Gossamer worlds.

This release describes the Shape Shifting power for use

by Lords of Gossamer & Shadow players and
gamemasters alike. Shape Shifting can be selected during
character creation, introduced later in a campaign, or
purchased during character advancement.

Shape Shifting
Though the powers inherent to Gossamer worlds are
usually confined to those worlds, some few powers are
universal enough or intrinsic to the user that they may be
used throughout the Grand Stair and other Gossamer
worlds. Shape Shifting is just such a power, giving its
possessors the ability to manipulate and transform their
physical bodies in a variety of manners. Those who use it Shifting confers powers of adaptability, change, and
are called Shape Shifters. renewal, yet often involves switching from one idealized
form to another. These powers can occasionally play
Most Gossamer worlds have some knowledge of Shape
havoc on each other, and Shape Shifting while using
Shifters and Shape Shifting, through folklore and
either the Umbra or Eidolon carries with it a serious
mythology and even history. Many so-called “gods”
measure of risk. For this reason, a Shape Shifter should
assume alternate forms for various purposes (disguise,
consider carefully whether they wish to learn Eidolon
seduction, etc.), and many “monsters” are Shape Shifters,
Mastery, and masters of those powers should think
were-creatures who change shape into monstrous forms.
likewise about learning Shape Shifting.
Races of Shape Shifters are also relatively common, as
well as those who have learned the power through magic Four tiers of this power are described here: Lesser Shape
or some other augmentation. Shifting, Shape Shifting, Advanced Shape Shifting, and
Exalted Shape Shifting. Each level incorporates and
Regardless of the source, Shape Shifting works the same
builds on the abilities conferred by the prior level.
for most who possess the power, though on the Gossamer
world of origin the Shape Shifter may be subject to
additional weaknesses, unable to access the full range of
Limits to Shape Shifting Forms
powers, vulnerable to a particular item or condition, and The form the character takes must at least have animal
may even suffer additional restrictions on the power use. sentience and be alive: no rocks, tables, or ice ladders. A
character assuming a shape that does not possess the
This power coexists with the Eidolon and Umbra in a ability to think loses the ability to change back.
tenuous fashion, as those principles embody purity of Depending on the form and the gamemaster’s discretion,
form or the slide towards entropy. By contrast, Shape a character attempting such a form may end up as a
freakish hybrid of living being and inanimate object, or

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could simply transform and be incapable of changing When in doubt about the relative potency of an ability
back. In such cases, the gamemaster should be clear and conferred by Shape Shifting, the gamemaster should
emphatic, warning the character about the risks of such a always consult the most appropriate of the character’s
transformation and the likely outcome. Attributes. Something physical, such as armored hide,
regeneration, wings, etc. would likely be based on
The transformed alternate form must be a substantial Strength or Endurance, while a supernatural
being: at the Lesser, basic, and Advanced levels of the characteristic might be based off the character’s Psyche.
power, the Shape Shifter cannot assume ethereal or If it makes sense that the ability work in the environment
insubstantial forms such as clouds of mist or forms of the Gossamer world the Shape Shifter is in (or even the
composed of thought, sound, or light. Similarly, the Grand Stair), then the ability can function as desired,
transformation does not have any abilities beyond those though, as always, its relative power will be limited
that are natural for the creature’s form in the Gossamer by that which opposes it.
world the shape originates in, whatever those abilities
may be. It does not include magic use or any abilities Furthermore, the more powerful a creature is (if its
equaling those from Artifacts or Creatures, such as abilities are supernatural), the more powerful a sense of
Double Damage claws or power use beyond any the personality that form carries. To successfully assume
character may normally possess. It is possible to those forms, the Shape Shifter must become deeply
transform into a creature with extraordinarily harmful immersed into its physiological and mental makeup,
claws or abilities approximating Sorcery, for example, but putting the Shape Shifter at greater risk of losing their
these will be Gossamer copies, potent only on their world identity (see “Shape Shifting and Self”, below).
of origin or, if they work elsewhere, will be inferior to the
“real” qualities or powers. Shape Shifting and Items
Clothes or equipment worn by the Shape Shifter are
Shape Shifting and Supernatural Abilities usually shed or destroyed when the transformation
As noted above, alternate forms may possess remarkable occurs, based on the shape and size of the new form. A
abilities that are considered supernatural or impossible Shape Shifter wishing to have an outfit that can
to the character’s normal form. These can be as accommodate the rigors of Shape Shifting is advised to
commonplace as flight, poison, water breathing, night purchase such garments as one or more Artifacts with the
vision, resistance to poison, regeneration, immunity to Shape-shifting quality (described on pages 51-52 of the
vacuum, or bony armor. These abilities can also be more core rulebook), or to seek ingenious tailors from a
extreme, such as flame breath, petrifying gaze, acidic Gossamer world where such garments are possible.
blood, radioactivity, etc. These types of abilities can be However, such items tied to a Gossamer world, such as,
tricky for the gamemaster to make a ruling on, and are for example, a leotard made of unstable molecules, may
too varied to list on a case-by-case basis. not retain any of its qualities outside the Gossamer world
of its origin.
A rule of thumb for these abilities when they arise is that
if the ability is intrinsic to the anatomy or physical Time Requirements for Shape Shifting
characteristics of the Shape Shifted form, then the ability
Shape Shifting can be relatively quick. Lesser cosmetic
works on the Gossamer world it is native to, or where it
changes such as skin, hair, or eye color, lengthening ears,
would be suitable. This last bit is the important one. The
growing claws or fangs, sprouting horns, or toughening
laws of physics or magic that might allow a dragon to fly
skin will take a dozen or so seconds, while more profound
and breathe fire in one Gossamer world might keep it
musculoskeletal rearrangement and psychological
earthbound and suffering fierce indigestion on another.
transformation can take several minutes or longer if the
Another limiting factor is that these abilities are
new form is not well-known to the Shape Shifter.
frequently quite taxing in terms of Endurance and
Psyche. Shape Shifting wings and figuring out how to flap
It’s quickest and easiest to change back to a “favored”
them is one thing (a relatively basic exercise in muscular
form, one that the Shape Shifter regards as their original
coordination and effort), but Shape Shifting to create a
or most comfortable form. Usually this is the Shape
venom sac would be somewhat more difficult. Trying to
Shifter’s natural form, but it could be a single alternate
approximate the internal anatomical changes that allow
form. This transformation can take less than a minute at
for x-ray vision, flame breath, or telepathy might be too
most, depending on how dramatic a transformation is
much for the Shape Shifter to maintain while in the new
required. Shape Shifters who are injured, fatigued,
form.
undernourished, diseased, or otherwise at less-than-ideal
shape will inevitably take longer to switch forms.

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More substantial changes, such as into creatures of power
or specific beings, or even flocks or creatures radically
different in size, will take longer, ranging from several
minutes to even hours, depending on the scale and
complexity of the new form to be assumed.

Endurance Costs and Shape Shifting

Changing one’s shape is taxing, akin to rigorous physical
activity that exercises every muscle, every fiber in the
Shape Shifter’s body. Though it is easier to change into
familiar shapes than it is to improvise new shapes or to
transform specific body parts, the process is enough to
exhaust a character with Average Rank in Endurance.
Superior Ranked Endurance will allow a few attempts in
a day without the Shape Shifter becoming exhausted, and
Paragon or higher-Ranked Endurance allows for Shape
Shifting without limitation. Shape Shifting while
unhealthy, fatigued, or wounded is more taxing than
when healthy. Lastly, due to the extreme drain on vitality
reserves, most Shape Shifters become ravenous and
thirsty after using the power, no matter what their Rank
in Endurance.

Distinguishing Characteristic
Most living beings have one or more distinguishing transforms into something radically different. For
characteristics, whether it be a distinctive scar, some example, a stray tuft of hair might become a slightly
element of coloration, a distinct pattern of scales or fur, crooked horn or an antenna in the same place, or a ridge
the shape or color of eyes, posture or gait, a particular of skin on a hairless cranium. This is not so much a
mannerism, a quality voice, or some other element that failing of the Shape Shifting ability so much as it a quirk
stands out and is instantly recognizable by friends, of the Shape Shifter’s identity, sometimes even a blind
family, and allies. Such characteristics can be intrinsic spot in the Shape Shifter’s self-image that manifests
parts of one’s identity, or even aspects a character works across forms.
at suppressing, or cultivating.
The distinguishing mark does not always have to be a
Though they are fluid in so many ways, Shape Shifters are natural part of the Shape Shifter’s appearance either, and
unable to completely disguise every aspect of their could instead represent a recent wound, or a particular
appearance, and the player or gamemaster should preference for a certain color or recent affliction. For
determine one unique characteristic about the Shape example, a Shape Shifter who has recently lost an ear
Shifting character’s appearance or presence, a might find that every shape they assume, the injury (or
distinguishing characteristic that can identify the Shape an equivalent scar) manifests, or a Shape Shifter
Shifter. This can be subtle, like a limp or a particular suffering from some respiratory injury might
catch-phrase, or a certain tuft of hair that never lies inadvertently cough in any form, or perform the
straight or even a strange colored fleck in one eye. This equivalent action, as appropriate.
distinguishing mark will appear, in some fashion, in
every form the Shape Shifter assumes, no matter how Note that this particular aspect of the power is meant as
different that form may be from the Shape Shifter’s a means of quick characterization and of dramatic
original appearance. The Shape Shifter can attempt to shorthand, not to be a crippling flaw or obvious
conceal it, and it does not always have to be prevalent, but drawback. It can be ignored should the player and
it should present as a tiny bit of visual flare, even if it gamemaster choose to do so, or if it is maintained, a
Shape Shifter or Advanced Shape Shifter can work to
conceal or suppress the distinguishing characteristic
entirely. Alternately, a canny Shape Shifter might find it
a useful tool to add another layer of deception, presenting
a Shape Shifted form with another Shape Shifter’s

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distinguishing characteristic displayed in an obvious
Artifact-based Shape Shifting vs. the
fashion.
Shape Shifting Power
Dangers of Shape Shifting Budget-conscious players may notice that with the 10-
Though it is an amazingly versatile power, Shape Shifting point “Confers Power on Wearer/Owner/User” quality
comes with several notable drawbacks and vulnerabilities (page 53 of the core rulebook) it’s possible to purchase an
that can endanger its users. These dangers are present at item (artifact or creature) that grants an Alternate Form
all levels of the Shape Shifting power, but Shape Shifters (a total of 11 points), gives Named & Numbered Alternate
with higher Endurance and Psyche Attributes will be Forms (12 points total), or confers limited Shape-Shift (a
better equipped to deal with them, and they are less of a bargain at 14 points). Compared to the price of buying the
threat to Advanced Shape Shifters. The Shape Shifter’s power itself, getting an Artifact or Creature to do all the
personal condition while Shape Shifting can also increase work seems a no-brainer, with points galore to spare.
the likelihood of one of these becoming a problem: a However, this is not always the best option, for three
fatigued, injured Shape Shifter is more liable to fall into important reasons.
one of these traps than a well-rested one, and even an
experienced Advanced Shape Shifter might slip up if Not Backed by an Attribute: Unlike a power, items
goaded into a rage. stand on their own, and are independent items, self-
sufficient and drawing power primarily from themselves.
Shape Shifting and Loss of Self Unless they are intrinsic to a power, they are not backed
by an Attribute the way a power is, and any powers
Generally, a Shape Shifter retains their core identity
conferred by an item can be attacked without directly
when changing form, unless for some reason the player
attacking the player character. For example, a Cantrip
and/or gamemaster decide that the alternate form is too
can more-than-likely successfully switch off an item-
bestial, alien, or dominant for the character’s identity to
granted Shape Shift, though it might only give a
remain intact. This might range from the new shape
moment’s inconvenience to a proper Shape Shifter. So to
strongly influencing the Shape Shifter’s personality and
give an item the ability to oppose another Attribute for
goals all the way to the new form completely subsuming
Shape Shifting purposes, the player should spend some
the character’s self entirely. The more powerful the
points to give it Psyche, Psychic Defense, or other means
assumed form’s personality, the greater the risk to the
of psychic presence, a considerably more expensive
Shape Shifter. It is for this reason that Psyche is an
proposition, almost as expensive as the power itself.
important secondary Attribute: maintaining the
character’s own identity—no matter how strange or Vulnerable: Items can be taken away or interfered with
different the brain is now shaped—is entirely based on by others, making them less useful as the source of a
Psyche.
player character’s power. Mythology and folklore across
the Gossamer worlds are full of tales of “shape shifters”
Shape Shifting into specific other beings can even result
who lost the item that conferred this power, sometimes
in the assumed persona being so powerful as to
becoming powerless and in others that item granting the
overwhelm the character’s Psyche and take over, if the
power to the new possessor. If the item is a creature, then
desired form has a higher Psyche. This might even go so
the owner is at the creature’s whim as to whether the
far as the Shape Shifter losing their real memory in favor
power will be conferred, and as stated above, creatures
of a memory constructed out of what they think are are more vulnerable to manipulation or coercion than are
appropriate memories for the new form, or simply paying player characters.
no heed to the lack of a memory. In cases where a Shape
Limited: The Shape Shift power conferred by items is
Shifter does become lost into a new identity, the Shape
fairly modest, ranging from a single alternate form, a
Shifter does not gain any real memories of the intended
small number of alternate forms, or limited Shape Shift.
being, and is not so much a copy of the original being, but
This repertoire of forms may be useful if the item’s owner
a personality constructed out of the Shape Shifter’s
is dealing with known situations or environments, but
imagined or observed version of that identity. For
once exposed to new challenges, they might not be as
example, a Shape Shifter attempting to mimic someone
applicable. Unlike item-granted shape shifting, the
as high in Psyche as Vala, may end up believing that they
powers offer a full range of abilities and qualities, making
are her, rationalizing away any inconsistencies that
item-based Shape Shift an occasionally-useful ability, but
might puncture that belief, though Vala herself would be
nowhere near as universal or adaptable as the powers
highly suspicious and sensitive if her memory suddenly
themselves.
became patchy and inconsistent.

4
When a Shape Shifter is lost into a new identity, it doesn’t Gossamer world effects or “real”, based on one of the
just affect the Shape Shifter’s ability to control the new powers or imparted by items), the method and time of
form, or to behave as desired. This sublimation also recovery varies, with Psyche and Endurance taken into
affects outside attempts to contact the Shape Shifter consideration. If taken from the Gossamer world where
through magical means, such as through Icons. The one the power was neutralized, a Shape Shifter might recover
making the contact may find that something is strange instantly, or it might be a matter of days for the Shape
and unfamiliar with the Shape Shifter, or may even be Shifter to completely be back to normal.
unable to make the contact. However, though a Shape
Shifter may take on a radically-different form, a True In cases where the ability loss is more pronounced and
Name is unchanged, unless it has been altered through not tied to the conditions on a particular Gossamer world,
Invocation. Allies may use the Invocation power as the the gamemaster should determine what aspect of the
sole means of reaching through the suppressed power has been temporarily disabled: whether it is the
personality of an identity-lost Shape Shifter, and the True knowledge and skill of Shape Shifting, the specific
Name may even be used as a potential means of helping physical ability to transform, or both. Once this is known,
restore the Shape Shifter to their former self. the recovery should be based on this knowledge: if it is
the psychological aspects of the power that are lost, the
Another limitation imposed by the loss of identity is that recovery should be based on the character’s Psyche, and
of powers. In normal circumstances, the transformed if the physical ability is suppressed for some reason, the
form represents the continued consciousness and time for recovery is based on Endurance. For Endurance,
memory as the Shape Shifter’s basic form, and as such, in an Average Ranked character might take a year or more
the new form the Shape Shifter can use any powers they of recovery, with Superior taking a month, and Paragon
possess. If the transformed identity is distinct from the Ranking recovering in a week. Higher Ranks will take
Shape Shifter’s, and acts independently (a Doctor Jekyll even less time. In the case of Psyche-based recovery, the
and Mister Hyde situation), the Shape Shifter will not be times provided for Endurance are also representative of
able to use any of their normal powers while in the the amount of retraining and psychological conditioning
alternate form, restricted only to those powers inherent required to re-attain the mastery of form and shape
in the new form (but not ones granted by powers the required to utilize the power. Should the loss be based on
Shape Shifter does not normally possess). These may be both skill and actual physical ability, the time to recover
supernatural qualities that mimic powers such as should be based on both Psyche and Endurance, either
Sorcery, etc., but are approximations of those powers and added together or done in parallel, based on what course
not backed by the universal forces that fuel those powers. of rehabilitation (if any) is pursued.

Loss of Shape Shifting Ability Power Rejection

A Shape Shifter who suffers intense trauma may Another potential risk of the Shape Shifting power is that
temporarily lose the power to shape shift. This could be overuse or extreme usage of the power may, at the
due to direct and intense exposure to one of the great gamemaster’s discretion, tax the Shape Shifter’s natural
powers such as the Eidolon or the Umbra (which would bodily defenses past the point of safety, causing the
enforce their cosmic ideology upon the Shape Shifter’s body’s rejection of the power itself. This can also be the
form), being overloaded with magical energy, or from a result of interactions between other powers the Shape
near-fatal physical injury that brings the Shape Shifter to Shifter may possess, with Eidolon Mastery or Umbra
the brink of death. This loss of ability could also come as Mastery being the most likely candidates to cause
the result of an intense psychological trauma, invocation problems for Shape Shifting. In situations like these,
of the Shape Shifter’s True Name to “stabilize” their where some element of the Shape Shifter’s being is
personality and corporeal form, or even through some rejecting the very ability to Shape Shift, the character may
advanced and powerful Icon-based magic to restore or undergo a dramatic transformation or unintended
maintain the Shape Shifter into their basic form (a consequence of the power, either inadvertently or when
reversal of Oscar Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray). it is used. This could range from the Shape Shifter
attempting to change form and suddenly being
It could also be that some other restriction has been “overwritten” by the Eidolon’s design, finding the new
placed on the Shape Shifter, ranging from genetic shape fixed and inflexible, or a transformation resulting
alteration, brainwashing or loss of memory and identity, in an Umbra-based corruption, with cancerous tumors
a chemical serum to neutralize the power, an boiling out from every muscle, fiber, and even cell,
enchantment, or even something as basic as enchanted causing flesh to slough off or even disintegrate. Other
bonds that will prevent the Shape Shifter from changing. types of rejection are also possible, with sorcery
Depending on the origin of these losses (whether potentially supercharging the Shape Shifter’s cells with

5
Gossamer world energy that cannot be controlled, will revert whenever the Shape Shifter’s concentration
potentially causing the Shape Shifter to mimic elements wavers, if the Shape Shifter is aware of the distinguishing
or energy states it is in contact with, while the True Name characteristic at all.
of the Shape Shifter could enforce a type of stasis where
nothing can change, even new memories failing to form. Usually, this alternate form is roughly the character’s
This type of power loss should be extremely rare, and bodily mass, but this is not a requirement. If desired, the
recovery would be based on the conditions by which it alternate form can be up to three times the character’s
occurred, with the Shape Shifter’s Endurance and Psyche normal size, or it can be as small as a fifth of the
Attributes as the guides to how quickly the Shape Shifter character’s size. For example, a fairly burly humanoid
will recover and, eventually, be able to use the power character could Shape Shift into a good-sized bear, and a
again. more petite character could transform into something the
size of a large house cat. The excess mass is shed or gained
as cells multiply, the more in either direction the more
taxing on Endurance the transformation is.
Lesser Shape Shifting It takes roughly a minute for a Shape Shifter to transform

[15 Points] from one shape to another; less for forms that are closer
to the original shape, and the higher the character’s
The first tier of Shape Shifting allows the Shape Shifter to Endurance, the quicker. The Shape Shifter will remain in
take on a single alternate form. This version of the power the alternate form for as long as desired or until going to
is the most common throughout the Gossamer worlds, sleep, at which point the Shape Shifter’s normal form will
giving birth to legends of all manner of were-creatures reassert itself. In death, the Shape Shifter reverts to their
and skin-changers. original form.

Favored Attributes for Lesser Shape Shifting. Endurance In some cases, a Lesser Shape Shifter may have
is the favored Attribute for Lesser Shape Shifting, as conditions attached to the transformation, such as an
transforming requires considerable physical effort (no astrological phase, an emotional condition, or some other
matter how effortless it may appear). Psyche is also compulsion. The alternate form may even be lost when
important, enabling the Shape Shifter to maintain a sense those particular conditions are no longer met, or another
of self while in the alternate form. Shape Shifters with condition comes to pass. These conditions are either
low- or unranked Psyche Attributes frequently lose psychological or are unique to the Gossamer world the
control when they change, becoming bestial or character gained the power in: on other Gossamer worlds
unthinking, or having their personalities change or upon the Grand Stair the power can be used as desired
dramatically to that of the new form. High Ranks in (though the character may not realize this initially). For
Psyche allow the Shape Shifter to retain personality, example, when on the Gossamer world of their origin, a
intelligence, and keep goals consistent between forms. man cursed to be a werewolf may only be able to
transform during certain phases of the moon, or a mild-
Lesser Shape Shifting Abilities mannered scientist may only transform when enraged,
though once exposed to the world of the Grand Stair,
The following abilities are available to lesser Shape they may be able to assume their alternate forms at will,
Shifters. However, some Shape Shifting traditions do not perhaps even in a more desirable and controlled fashion.
use this ability to the fullest, often with the Shape Shifters
themselves unaware that there are further plateaus of the
Partial Transformation
power. In these cases, the Shape Shifter will never
With practice and concentration, a character with Lesser
progress beyond a single alternate form, no matter how
Shape Shifting can transform partway between the
experienced they become.
normal form and the alternate form in some minor
fashion, such as assuming a single limb, eyes, teeth, or
Alternate Form growing scales or fur to match the other form. This takes
With Lesser Shape Shifting, the character is limited to a considerable effort and cannot be maintained
single alternate form, determined when the power is indefinitely, requiring the Shape Shifter’s utmost
purchased. As described in “Distinguishing concentration. Any parts of the body will gain any special
Characteristic” (above), the alternate form will have some properties the transformed body part may possess, such
visual element in common with the Shape Shifter, a as claws, night vision, winged flight, etc., within the range
distinguishing feature or characteristic that remains of the Shape Shifter’s normal abilities and limitations in
common in both forms. This can be disguised away, but that alternate form.

6
 familiar with and can assume quickly. If this ability is
Shape Shifting [35 Points] gained as an improvement of the Lesser Shape Shifting
power, the Shape Shifter’s repertoire of forms must be
If your character already possesses Lesser Shape Shifting,
learned while in the course of play, or developed between
the cost for Shape Shifting is 20 points.
sessions if time allows.
This version of the power allows the Shape Shifter to
The number of forms a Shape Shifter can assume in this
assume a variety of bodily types and transformational
fashion should be limited by Psyche: the higher the
abilities, though it is still hindered by some unique
Psyche, the more forms can be assumed. A good rule of
drawbacks.
thumb might be to double this amount per level of the
Favored Attributes for Shape Shifting. Endurance is the character’s Psyche starting at around six shapes at
favored Attribute for Shape Shifting, considering that Average Rank. At Superior Rank, the Shape Shifter would
most of the powers concern manipulating one’s physical know a dozen, and at Paragon Rank perhaps two dozen.
form. Psyche is nearly as
important, both for the
precise concentration re-
quired and to maintain the
core sense of self even when Additional Ranks would
assuming radically different improve the maximum
psychologies inherent to the number accordingly, so that
forms being assumed. the Shape Shifter with the
highest-Ranked Psyche
Limitations of Shape would potentially have
hundreds of potential
Shifting shapes memorized and
A Shape Shifter has the ready to use.
limitations described in
Lesser Shape Shifting, Shape Shifting
including: a distinguishing
characteristic; the necessity Abilities
to maintain a corporeal In addition to the abilities
being (no clouds of mist or possessed by Lesser Shape
swarms of bees); the same Shifting, the following
range of body mass abilities are available to all
variance; and finally, the Shape Shifters, regardless of
threat of loss of self. whether these abilities are
Additionally, the Shape utilized.
Shifter is not entirely free to
assume any new form at will, Alternate Forms
as they must be learned, as
Most Shape Shifters
described below.
maintain a repertoire of
alternate forms they’re comfortable with. These take less
Learning New Shapes time to shift into, are generally more comfortable, and are
A Lesser Shape Shifter is limited to a single alternate often the first ones the Shape Shifter will attempt to
form, but at this level of the power the Shape Shifter can assume.
develop a repertoire of different shapes, a veritable
wardrobe suited for a variety of situations. Generally, a x Basic Form. Every Shape Shifter has a basic form,
Shape Shifter needs a good image or description of the the body they were born inhabiting, representative of
intended shape: the more exact and detailed, the better. race or species. If a Shape Shifter is inadvertently
With a few days of practice and experimentation, the rendered unconscious or subjected to massive
Shape Shifter can assume the new form almost as quickly systemic shock, the Shape Shifter returns to this
as a more familiar form. If this power is purchased during basic form. This is the easiest form for the Shape
the character creation process, the character can be Shifter to return to when in another form, and is
assumed to have a half-dozen or so shapes they are usually the most comfortable. Any magical means of

7
 revealing a Shape Shifter’s true form will reveal this hair/fur, eye, hide, scales, etc.), lengthening limbs,
basic form. The Shape Shifter does not need to draw growing horns, etc. Flesh is quick to manipulate, while
on any reserve of Endurance or Psyche to remain in bone takes longer and is more taxing. This can be done
this basic form, and can stay here indefinitely. If the quickly and is easier the higher the Shape Shifter’s
Shape Shifter dies, this is the form they will return to Endurance Attribute. These characteristics will remain as
post mortem. long as desired, or until the Shape Shifter has lost
x Animal Form. Assuming animal forms is a popular consciousness or suffered trauma sufficient enough to
starting point for Shape Shifters because of ease of cause complete loss of control.
access, proximity, or even a spiritual affinity. For
many Shape Shifters it is easy to study animals and Quickened Healing.
learn fine points of their appearance and behavior, By concentrating on an injured body part, a Shape Shifter
mimicking these perfectly. An animal form can close open wounds, repair bruised tissue, alleviate
transformation is almost as easy to take on as the contusions, mend broken bones, etc., restoring the body
Shape Shifter’s basic form, especially if the Shape to its unwounded, healthy state. The more complex or
Shifter feels a spiritual affinity for the animal, severe the injury, the longer it takes: quickly closing a
whether as a totemic relation or as casual as a light wound can be done during a brief lull in the midst of
preference. Claws, scales, feathers, tough hide, combat, but healing a pierced lung or regenerating
carapace, fins, hooves, tails, even wings are all easy damaged nerves or broken bones can take minutes or
to assume, and a character with at least Paragon even hours. Similarly, a Shape Shifter can use the power
Rank in Strength will be able to fly. to return to health when sickened, poisoned, diseased,
irradiated, etc., though these changes are more subtle
Impromptu Shape Shifting and require an amount of time related to the severity of
If desired, a Shape Shifter can perform immediate feats the condition. A hangover, for example, would be
of limited Shape Shifting, such as mirroring the face of relatively quick to deal with, while something as
someone the Shape Shifter is face-to-face with, or even prevalent and serious such as radiation poisoning could
altering body shape while grappling a foe. This type of take hours or even days to be rid of.
rapid changing is highly exhausting and requires
considerable force of will, draining Endurance and The loss of a significant portion of one’s anatomy, such as
Psyche in proportion to the severity of the change being an eye or limb, cannot be permanently replaced with
attempted. Subtle changes, such as extending limbs, etc. Shape Shifting, and will revert to the injured or missing
are relatively minor, while manifesting new qualities such state when the Shape Shifter’s concentration lapses. The
as slippery skin, glowing eyes, etc. can be more Endurance Attribute governs “true” regeneration, and
exhausting and are difficult to do while distracted. any forms the Shape Shifter takes in the meantime will
have the same missing element or impediment. If the
Disguise missing body part does not heal, it may become a
permanent characteristic, as described in “Distinguishing
Shape Shifters can use this power to make minor
Features”, prior.
cosmetic changes to conceal their true identity. These
methods include altering height, build, coloration, facial
features, hair length, voice, and any other appropriate Bodily Control
features. Skin patterning or textures are within the realm The Shape Shifter can use precise control over normal
of this ability, but specific elements like tattoos or specific bodily processes and organs to modify them to suit a
scars are sometimes difficult to master, and the relative desired function. Body temperature can be raised or
success is based off the Shape Shifter’s Psyche. This lowered outside normal tolerances, muscles can be made
ability cannot be used reliably to replicate another more elastic or hardened, vision improved, heart rate
specific being or even a radically different species: it is lowered to a near-stop or heightened to flood the body
more a case of the Shape Shifter attempting to look less with adrenalin. The nervous system can be suppressed to
like oneself. The further from the Shape Shifter’s natural desensitize the body against pain, allowing the Shape
form the disguise is, the more difficult it is to maintain. Shifter to act despite agony from wounds. Breathing can
be slowed, digestion sped, the contents of the stomach
Partial Shape Shifting. “quarantined” to prevent poison from entering the body,
circulation inhibited or shut off to stave off bleeding, and
A Shape Shifter is able to change parts of appearance or
any number of other small internal changes that might
physical form without transforming the entire body, such
not be immediately visible to others. Additionally, the
as shifting facial features, lengthening ears, growing
Shape Shifter’s metabolism can be quickened to hasten
claws or fangs, cosmetic changes (recoloring skin,
the healing process, though short bursts are of less use

8
than longer healing efforts. The Shape Shifter can do The changes, as well, could go beyond the immediate
these quickly, at a rate based on Endurance. An Average- response required, and send the Shape Shifter’s form
Ranked Endurance would take a minute or so, Superior along an unwanted line. For example, in a fight, the
or Paragon much less, and high-Ranked Endurance can Shape Shifter may resort to an armored, clawed form
make these changes almost instantaneous. better suited for a scrap, but if wounded severely, the
body may resort to bestial behavior, and a low-Psyche
Instinctual Shape Shifting Shape Shifter’s personality may be utterly subsumed in
Not all Shape Shifting requires guided transformation. the new form. Rather than seeking medical attention, the
Shape Shifters are able to let their bodies transform out-of-control bestial Shape Shifter might retreat
instinctually in response to external stimuli, stresses, or somewhere to lick its wounds, angrily lashing out at any
threats. This process must be unconscious and without who try to help it. Only through some outside
any deliberate interference from the Shape Shifter, and intervention or when it falls asleep will the Shape Shifter
depending on how rapid or extreme the Shape Shifting is, gain control.
the Shape Shifter may even lose consciousness or have
limited awareness of what their body is actually doing. To
use this ability, the player must announce that the Shape
Shifter is going into instinctual Shape Shifting, and the Advanced Shape Shifting
gamemaster will dictate what effects this has.

Following are a variety of ways a Shape Shifter’s body

[65 Points]
may transform entirely by instinct: If your character already possesses Shape Shifting, the
cost for Advanced Shape Shifting is 30 points.
ƒ A mortally wounded Shape Shifter will go into near-
catatonia, shutting down major functions to devote Advanced Shape Shifting is the most versatile of the three
all energy to recovery and healing. The heart rate levels of the power described thus far, giving the Shape
slows to less than a beat per minute, breathing Shifter amazing malleable abilities, a veritable protean
becomes near-imperceptible, and brain activity will form able to assume an incredible variety of shapes,
appear to have flat-lined. This also serves as a form specific beings, and even more unique aspects. This level
of “playing dead,” making the Shape Shifter seem of the power incorporates the abilities of Lesser Shape
deceased to all but the most careful scrutiny. Shifting and Shape Shifting, though the weaknesses and
ƒ When poisoned, infected, diseased, or irradiated, the drawbacks are much less of a limitation.
Shape Shifter’s body will attempt to repel any foreign
elements, internal systems reconfiguring and Favored Attributes for Advanced Shape Shifting.
rearranging to defend against and/or evict any Endurance is the primary attribute for Advanced Shape
intrusive toxins. The Shape Shifter may sweat, Shifting, allowing the Advanced Shape Shifter the vitality
vomit, or otherwise excrete the toxins until the body and resilience required to handle the intense changes to
is clear. This form of Shape Shifting is extremely physiology and anatomy. Psyche is almost as important,
taxing to Endurance, and can be mildly disgusting to letting the Advanced Shape Shifter maintain a continual
behold, if not even dangerous to be around should sense of self while in radically different forms.
the contagion be still viable and active.
ƒ A Shape Shifter deprived of oxygen will reduce the Advanced Shape Shifting Abilities
body’s reliance on oxygen, storing any oxygen In addition to the abilities conferred by Lesser Shape
already in the body (lungs, blood cells, etc.), and Shifting and Shape Shifting, a character with Advanced
using far less oxygen than normal. This will Shape Shifting gains the abilities following, and is not
inevitably send the Shape Shifter into a comatose limited by some of the limitations of those prior versions.
state to reduce the body’s use of oxygen, so a Shape
Shifter wishing to remain conscious may need to Higher Form
fight this reflex. One of the most impressive abilities the Advanced Shape
Shifter can manifest is the ability to shift into a so-called
Other abilities are dependent on circumstances, and
“Higher Form”, combining the Shape Shifting ability with
should be determined by the gamemaster.
another of the powers. These hybrid forms are almost
An obvious danger of involuntary or instinctual Shape akin to avatars, and while in these forms, the Advanced
Shifting is that the transformation is out of the Shape Shape Shifter may use the relevant power almost
Shifter’s control, and may not result in a desired state. instinctually, potentially at a much higher range of

9
ability, having shed the human aspect that limited the seem to lose cohesion, and organs, muscle, and skeletal
power’s ability to manifest. systems may collapse or even mutate spontaneously. To
most beings, this form is horrific, akin to some sort of
To transform into a Higher Form truly related to living death or total entropy. While in this form, the
a power, the Advanced Shape Shifter must Advanced Shape Shifter’s thoughts are heavily influenced
possess that power, without exception. Thus, to by the Umbra, and may shift towards fatalistic at a primal
transform into Umbral Form, an Advanced Shape Shifter level, possibly so bleak that any normal line of thought
must be an Umbra Master. Though it is possible to becomes impossible. The disadvantages of this form are
attempt to assume one of these forms without possessing obvious, but the advantages are many: the Advanced
the power itself, the Advanced Shape Shifter is placed at Shape Shifter is highly resistant to injury, as cells are
tremendous risk, almost assuredly losing identity to the already acclimated to any destructive force, and in this
power itself, being guided by forces beyond control or form the Advanced Shape Shifter can destabilize order at
even comprehension. a tremendous level simply by being present. Doors fall off
their hinges, magical wards will come undone, protective
The most common of these forms are: fields and guards are unraveled, and chains warp and fall
away. An Advanced Shape Shifter suffering from a
Eidolon Form: All matter, living or otherwise, is
disease, infection, toxin, or some other baleful effect will
organized along some pattern, a characteristic of the
find that the Umbral Form serves as a type of therapy,
influence of the Eidolon. Advanced Shape Shifters who
destroying any lesser invaders. Even a possessing spirit
are also Eidolon Masters can evoke its power to create an
may not be able to survive the shift into Umbral Form.
idealized, perfect form, a Platonic ideal of the character’s
inner nature. This form is eerie to behold, an artificial, Living Icon: The Advanced Shape Shifter becomes an
elevated purity of appearance that has lost all of the avatar of themselves, a power-charged representation of
quirks and distinguishing marks that make up an their essential self. This outré combination of Wrighting
individual’s appearance. Instead, the Eidolon Form is and Shape Shifting allows the Advanced Shape Shifter to
eerily blank, almost an abstract of the character’s focus on their individual Icon in the same fashion they
appearance, stark and minimal. It may be taller than the would to contact another individual, aligning their body
character, thinner, more streamlined, facial features and mind into congruence with the image depicted. This
almost rudimentary. The Eidolon Form may not even creates a sympathetic loop in which the Advanced Shape
appear human, evoking thoughts of angels to those who Shifter becomes bolstered by the expression depicted on
behold it. While in this form, the Advanced Shape Shifter the Icon, supercharged with energy and becoming, in
is nearly impervious to any form of corruption, decay, or effect, a living Icon. While in this state, the Advanced
any of the more insidious influences of the Umbra. Shape Shifter shakes off the effects of any potential curses
Psychologically, Advanced Shape Shifters in Eidolon or mind-altering states (such as amnesia, madness,
Form glimpse reality at an elevated, abstract level in psychological duress, hypnosis, etc.) and can even use the
which every concept is in its purest and most process to refute any curses that may hang upon the
uncompromised state. As such, this form is often strict Advanced Shape Shifter, enabling a Psyche vs. Psyche
and uncompromising, entertaining only absolutes in conflict with the one who created the condition. The
thought and intent. The disadvantages of an Eidolon living Icon can easily block any incoming Icon-based
Form are that it is highly conspicuous, and while some communication, and becomes aware of any one of their
will find peace and comfort in the presence of unearthly Icons that is active and visible, essentially being able to
perfection, others find its presence intimidating or even spy through it.
terrifying.
Additional Powers have been presented for use with
Umbral Form: While the roiling, destabilizing nature Lords of Gossamer & Shadow, such as Empathy,
of the Umbra is present in throughout all of reality to Blessings & Curses, and others. Should the gamemaster
some degree, it is rare that it manifests strongly in living and player of an Advanced Shape Shifter wish to
beings. Inevitably, life is about growth along proscribed introduce forms related to these powers, it is advised that
patterns, about genetic continuance, cells lining up in a the nature and scope of these manifestations be
particular fashion as dictated by heredity. As such, an determined, in collaboration, in the course of play,
Advanced Shape Shifter who assumes an Umbral Form is perhaps as the result of experimentation or desperation.
causing a genetic riot, rebelling against every governing
principle that life operates under. An Umbral Form is a Size Change
chaotic one, unpredictable and different each time it is
At the advanced level of Shape Shifting, the Advanced
assumed. Parts of the Advanced Shape Shifter’s body may
Shape Shifter is no longer bound to the prior limits of size

10
and mass. The Advanced Shape Shifter can transform
into something as small as a cat, or as huge as an
elephant, though the further from the Advanced Shape
Shifter’s normal bodily mass the transformation is, the
more taxing it becomes, drawing on both Endurance and
Psyche. Endurance is taxed as the Advanced Shape
Shifter essentially grows new bodily mass (or sheds it)
and expands existing corporeal mass (or contracts it),
while the process requires an expenditure of Psyche to
control the difficult process. Some Advanced Shape
Shifters attempt to offset this drain by absorbing or
purging the desired amount of mass to reach the ideal size
(for example, eating copiously or purging unwanted body
mass). The Internal Transformation ability (described
above) can come in handy with this, letting the Advanced
Shape Shifter form digestive organs capable of turning
random bits of matter into equivalent bodily mass in a
hurry. The speed of the change is also dependent on how
radically different in scale it is from the Advanced Shape
Shifter’s normal size, with greater differences taking
much longer to achieve and return from.

Aura Shape Shifting

Most living beings possess auras, energetic
manifestations of their intrinsic life-force, whether
bioelectric, radiation, or spiritual energy bodies, or some
combination of these elements. As described in the core
rulebook on page 18, characters with high Ranks in
duplicating these organs so they are redundant, such as
Psyche can perceive these auras, and some magical
growing a hindbrain at the base of the spine, a second
beings can perceive them through normal or extra-
heart to better regulate blood flow, or additional liver and
sensory abilities. An Advanced Shape Shifter can present
kidneys to better purify the blood. In some cases, the
an altered psychic presence, shifting the body’s natural
Advanced Shape Shifter may even utilize these organs in
aura to become unrecognizable. The Advanced Shape
altogether new fashions, to accommodate loss of limbs or
Shifter can choose to make that aura resemble that of
organs. An enterprising Advanced Shape Shifter might
another living being such as a plant or animal, a
also use this ability to open an additional eye in the
supernatural being, or may even appear as another
forehead, a fanged mouth on the palm of the hand, or a
specific entity known to the Advanced Shape Shifter. It is
gaping maw leading directly into the stomach.
also possible to “dim” one’s natural aura to appear less
powerful (presenting oneself as having a lower Psyche), Another less common use of this ability is to
though it is difficult to convincingly fake a higher Rank in accommodate items within the Advanced Shape Shifter’s
Psyche. Seeing through the ruse is best accomplished body, creating a safe space that is otherwise invisible to
through a high-Ranked Psyche, a well-timed cantrip or visible means of detection. Thus, an Advanced Shape
spell, or perhaps through the use of Invocation or the Shifter may conceal a weapon or valuable item such as an
Advanced Shape Shifter’s own Icon. Icon or small Artifact within their person, sheathing it
beneath flesh until it is needed. Unless some means of
Internal Reorganization telepathic control exists to operate the item, it cannot be
The Advanced Shape Shifter can reorganize internal used while so concealed. Icons, for example, usually must
organs such as heart, lungs, intestines, and even the brain be visible to be utilized fully, and thus an Icon hidden
to move them to unexpected and better-defended beneath the flesh cannot be used to contact the person
locations, sheathe them in layers of internal muscle and depicted.
bone, or even switch places. This can also be extended to
Creatures of Blood
An Advanced Shape Shifter can create creatures of
“blood”, releasing a small quantity of blood and shaping

11
it through the still-living bond, the fluid forming into a The body part can remain viable and alive for a
desired shape. This shape can be a spider, a small bird, a considerable amount of time, based on the Advanced
fly, or something else, its size limited only by how much Shape Shifter’s Endurance, with a high-Rank making the
the Advanced Shape Shifter is willing to bestow to it. The body part virtually immortal, perhaps even outliving the
larger it is, the hardier and more substantial, giving it Advanced Shape Shifter! While a body part is so
independence and bestowing upon it a semblance of form detached, the Advanced Shape Shifter cannot
and function. This creature becomes a unique living permanently regenerate the part that has been lost: such
being, capable of living apart from the Advanced Shape replacement is temporary and highly-taxing, and will
Shifter for a period of time based on the Endurance of its revert whenever the Advanced Shape Shifter’s
“parent”, with Average or Superior Ranked creatures concentration lapses.
lasting hours or days, and Paragon or Higher-Ranked
creatures surviving independently for weeks, months, or Another popular use for this ability is for the Advanced
even years. The creature can be sent as a messenger, or Shape Shifter to store vital organs in safe places, such as
even used as a vector for disease, magic, or some other canopic jars, magically-warded casks, or even in
condition the Advanced Shape Shifter wishes to bestow. something akin to a phylactery. In these cases, the
It will have the basic physical capabilities of a creature of Advanced Shape Shifter is risking the destruction of this
its type, though exotic abilities such as venom are only an detached organ. While it is separate, the Advanced Shape
extension of the Advanced Shape Shifter’s body and may Shifter does not regrow the missing organ, and instead
not work as desired. uses other organs or sheer life-vitality to remain active
and functional. This separation can go on for a period of
The Advanced Shape Shifter is not limited to blood for time equivalent to the Advanced Shape Shifter’s
this ability, though it is the most readily available Endurance: with Average Ranked Endurances only
substance. Tears, sweat, or bile can be so transformed allowing a few minutes of separation, Superior Ranked
and used, and a small voodoo-style doll might be created lasting for several hours, and Paragon for days. An
out of hair, skin, or even cuticles. Advanced Shape Shifter with a higher-Ranked
Endurance can survive for weeks or even (in
Bodily Autonomy extraordinary cases) months apart from the organs. If the
In addition to being able to create minor creatures from Advanced Shape Shifter wishes to maintain this
its own blood, an Advanced Shape Shifter can sever or separation, it will be periodically necessary to return the
otherwise detach a limb or other body part and allow it to organ to within the body before the separation can be
act independently, surviving apart from the main body continued.
for a period of time. Due to the extreme concentration
this requires, the capabilities of such detached organs are When reunited, the autonomous body portion can be
limited to those the bodily part normally possesses, and reattached or rejoined instantaneously, restoring the
the autonomous portion of the body cannot generally use Advanced Shape Shifter’s body to wholeness. If the body
powers or even manifest Attributes to the fullest degree. part was modified before separation (wings, legs,
stingers, etc.) then these remain and can be re-absorbed
With this ability, an Advanced Shape Shifter can detach a into the Advanced Shape Shifter’s body, or left intact. If
hand and send it crawling, spider-wise, away. With a little for some reason another being attempts to attach the
bit of concentration, the Advanced Shape Shifter can also detached organ or body part to their own anatomy, the
pluck an eye and leave it hidden in a crevasse somewhere, gamemaster should determine what happens, whether it
attuning the nerves to store visual information rather results in rejection, assimilation, strange needs, or the
than pass it along, to be later absorbed when the eye is new body part attempting to take over the new host
reattached. However, the Advanced Shape Shifter cannot entirely, perhaps requiring an Endurance vs. Endurance
decide later to have the hand independently grow wings (or Psyche) battle!
and fly, or to give the eye spider legs to walk upon, or
cause such a detached part to sprout a scorpion tail to If an independent bodily organ is destroyed, the
sting foes. If these features are desired, they must be Advanced Shape Shifter suffers the shock of the injury as
created to be a part of the organ or body part before it is if it were directly upon them. This can be potentially fatal,
detached. Similarly, a detached body part can be or at the very least, highly disadvantageous and painful,
enchanted or otherwise invested with magic properties, forcing the Advanced Shape Shifter to adjust to the loss
or even turned into an Artifact or Creature (whichever is and to regenerate to replace the missing organ.
more appropriate). Some of these items litter the
Another potential danger of this ability is that the
Gossamer worlds, powerful relics that were once body
autonomous body part lacks many of the defenses its
parts belonging to gods, saints, or arch-wizards.

12
original body possessed, and may be influenced by damage. Even in these cases, an Exalted Shape Shifter
outside forces or potentially turned against its owner. For that has been injured seriously, or lost portions of the
example, a severed hand influenced by a malevolent flock, will bear horrific injuries whenever transforming
spirit may become “bad” and attack its former host, back into basic form, though this may be alleviated by the
indulging in eye-gouges, potential traps, or even Regeneration ability (described below).
operating firearms.
The Gorgon (from pages 146-147 of the core rulebook) is
described as a group of creatures that shares a single
mind. It may be that the Gorgon represents the ultimate,
Exalted Shape Shifting unfortunate fate of an Exalted Shape Shifter that lost
control while transformed into a flock. Gossamer Lords
[85 Points] encountering a Gorgon may recoil in surprise when it
transforms into a single being in death.
The final and most powerful tier of Shape Shifting allows
the Exalted Shape Shifter an enormous range of abilities, Regeneration
an utter plasticity of form guided only by will and As discussed above, an Exalted Shape Shifter is capable
imagination. This level of the power is extraordinarily of incredible feats of regeneration, restoring damaged or
rare, and may be reserved for beings akin to gods. missing sections of anatomy, great and small. When so
injured, the Exalted Shape Shifter can either focus efforts
Favored Attributes for Exalted Shape Shifting. As with on this rapid healing, stimulating regrowth of tissue,
the less-powerful levels of the power, Psyche and bones, nerves, organs, etc. or can allow the body’s natural
Endurance are dominant, but the other two Attributes reactions to handle it automatically. Guided regeneration
become more valuable here, as the new forms become is incredibly quicker, but far more exhausting, draining
more extraordinary and challenging to support solely the body’s reserves of energy and nutrients to build the
through the power itself. complex structure that is a living body. For automatic
regeneration, the Exalted Shape Shifter’s body simply
Exalted Shape Shifting Abilities begins regrowing the lost or damaged part on its own,
As prior, the Exalted Shape Shifter has all of the abilities spurring the body’s metabolism to a greater rate. An
conferred with the lesser versions of the power. The Exalted Shape Shifter will become ravenously hungry,
abilities specific to Exalted Shape Shifting are often thirsty, and need incredible amounts of sleep.
idiosyncratic, with an Exalted Shape Shifter specializing
in one or more, but the entire range is still possible. In the case of near-mortal trauma, an Exalted Shape
Shifter may even go into a healing trance, hibernating for
days or even weeks while the body returns to its intact
Flock Transformation
shape. The amount of time this takes is in converse to the
An Exalted Shape Shifter can transform from one being
Endurance Rank, with high-Ranked characters going into
into a “flock” of smaller, identical beings. This “flock” can
such trances for days, Paragon taking weeks, Superior a
range from a swarm of insects, a pack of rats, a mass of
matter of months, and Average Ranked characters
worms, an unkindness of ravens, a knot of serpents, etc.
potentially requiring longer while regenerating lost
(incidentally presenting the gamemaster with a rich
organs. The size and nature of the injury should also be
opportunity to introduce exotic collective nouns). The
taken into account for these times, at the gamemaster’s
elements of the flock move together and share
discretion.
consciousness, and must stay within close range of one
another. Straying too far apart while so distributed can be
incredibly taxing for the Exalted Shape Shifter, and it
Elemental Chameleon
requires a high Psyche to maintain control over all of the Any Shape Shifter can change their skin, coloration, or
individual beings within the flock. anatomy to appear to be made of something other than
flesh, but the Exalted Shape Shifter can extend awareness
Killing one part of the flock is like harming the body of a through the body at the cellular level and set them to a
single entity: the pain is shared throughout the entire state or sympathy that lets the cells duplicate any solid
flock, but unlike a single being, the flock will remain alive substance the body comes into contact with. Thus an
so long as one portion of it is intact. Outright destroying Exalted Shape Shifter using this ability would be able to
a portion of an Exalted Shape Shifter while in flock form change portions of their body to mimic the qualities of
can cause permanent damage, and only an Exalted wood, steel, glass, stone, shell, advanced polymers, or any
Shifter with a high Endurance can easily shrug off such other relatively stable substance. The material to be
assumed must be solid and substantial, and the Exalted

13
Shape Shifter must be in contact with the desired
substance for a few seconds or longer, based on its
relative complexity and density. The above-mentioned
substances or their equivalents are all suitable, while
chemical reactions or physical phenomena (light,
shadow, fire, etc.) are not, due to the lack of any
anatomical or structural integrity when transforming.

Similarly, while it is possible to assume the form of fluids

or gasses for a short time, for example, these forms are
highly vulnerable to some forms of attack, and could
dissipate or dissolve entirely, essentially ending the
Exalted Shape Shifter’s existence!

When using this ability, some or all of the Exalted Shape

Shifter’s body is transformed into the material,
mimicking it in a fashion that allows it to retain its living
quality, becoming living wood, living steel, living glass,
etc., with internal structures also comprised of this
material, functioning as if normal. While in one of these
forms, some or all of the Exalted Shape Shifter’s body will
appear to be made of the substance, with all of the
strengths and weaknesses of the material. Though the
Exalted Shape Shifter’s chameleon copy of the material is
in fact essentially equal to the copied substance, it does
not have any magical properties and may be inferior to
Artifacts or Creatures. While injured in this state, the motivation. The quicker the change, the more taxing it is.
Exalted Shape Shifter cannot regenerate and must return While in this form the Exalted Shape Shifter might create
to their basic form to heal. Clothing or worn items do not additional muscle mass to simulate Ranks in Strength, or
transform to accommodate the new material, though change internal organs and body tissue to gain the
Artifacts created to change along with the Exalted Shape benefits of a greater-Ranked Endurance, but Warfare
Shifter will do so. remains unchanged and cannot be duplicated through
any alteration of form or scale.
Psyche is also important in this transformation. If the
Exalted Shape Shifter’s whole body changes, the brain Permanent Transformation
may become potentially aligned in affinity with the new A last and incredible ability conferred by Exalted Shape
bodily substance, potentially altering the personality in Shifting is permanent transformation. Much slower than
favor of the new substance. This elemental copying is all of the normal modes of Shape Shifting, this allows the
incredibly taxing on the Exalted Shape Shifter and this Exalted Shape Shifter to make permanent and guided
state can only be retained for an amount of time equal to changes to their coloration, facial features, hair color and
the relative Endurance Attribute, with Average allowing texture, height, weight, anatomy, and even gender,
only seconds, Superior at half a minute at best, Paragon essentially changing the Exalted Shape Shifter’s basic
a handful of minutes, and the highest-Ranks letting the form to a new one. It can be even more profound, letting
state last up to an hour, at the most. the Exalted Shape Shifter transform into a different
species entirely. Initially, this change is limited to the
Exalted Size Change relative size of the Exalted Shape Shifter, and as it
An Exalted Shape Shifter is able to assume forms in progresses, additional body weight is shed or gained
excess of the limitations described for Advanced Shape through natural and enhanced processes. The new form
Shifting, and can shrink to the size of a fly, or grow to does not come with any additional new abilities other
titanic sizes, such as that of a dragon or elephant. As with than those that would be natural to the new form or
that level of the power, the Exalted Shape Shifter must species, and these abilities are limited in efficacy to the
shed or gain the excess mass through outside methods Gossamer world they are intrinsic to.
and extreme concentration, though the process can be
learned and trained to be done relatively quickly, in a Depending on the difference between the desired
span of seconds if uninterrupted or given enough appearance and the Exalted Shape Shifter’s innate form,

14
the process takes could take days, weeks, or even months, fluid adaptability. For any but Advanced Shape Shifters,
with Psyche and Endurance considered equally: Psyche using Eidolon and Shape Shifting at the same time might
for the deliberate alteration of the personal self-image to prove difficult, with the Eidolon enforcing a single
the desired one, and Endurance to actually change the archetypal idealized form upon the Shape Shifter’s body
body to suit the inner transformation. This ability may be rather than allowing for flexible transformation. In a
interrupted by significant trauma or intervention of a more positive fashion, the Eidolon might be used to rid
countering power (Eidolon, Umbra, Invocation, the Shape Shifter of any negative conditions incurred by
Wrighting, etc.), but it can also be quickened by the out-of-control Shape Shifting, allowing a quick (or even
Exalted Shape Shifter if they are willing to continually immediate) return to the pristine “basic” form.
transform into the desired shape “temporarily”, using
that outward appearance as a template for the body to Umbra Mastery: The opposition between Shape
eventually stabilize into. Shifting and Eidolon Mastery is an obvious one and easy
to grasp, but the tension between Umbra Mastery and the
same power is more subtle, and at times the powers can
work in tandem. The Umbra Mastery abilities of Personal
Shape Shifting and the Transformation (as described on pages 31-32 of the core
rulebook) offer some of the same benefits as Shape
Other Powers Shifting, and a character with both of these powers may
select which of them is more desirable to achieve a
Because Shape Shifting is a late entry to the canonical specific goal. Ultimately, however, the primary focus of
roster of powers in Lords of Gossamer & Shadow, the the Shape Shifting power is about regeneration and
gamemaster may desire guidance as to how it relates to renewal, adaptation and transformation to new and more
the other powers. It is impossible to consider a case-by- suitable states, while the Umbra evokes a continual slide
case basis covering each and every ability provided by downward and into entropy. If Shape Shifting were the
each power and how it interacts with Shape Shifting, but manifestation of a divine principle or grander universal
provided below are some high-level guidelines. force, this would prove complicating, but to a character
with both Umbra Mastery and Shape Shifting, it’s just a
Warden of the Grand Stair: The Grand Stair case of different-but-similar tools in the arsenal.
recognizes a Shape Shifter, no matter whatever form they
take, and if that Shape Shifter is also a walker of its Wrighting: Icons can see through most disguises, and
expanses and steps, then they will pass unhindered. A using an Icon against Shape Shifting is no different. If an
Shape Shifter who is also attuned to the Grand Stair and Icon is made of a Shape Shifter’s alternate form, the user
wishes to walk anonymously on a particular Gossamer of the Icon will still be able to reach the intended target,
world can attune to a Door by touching it, allowing the though the Icon’s user will initially see the Shape Shifter
body to transform into the likeness of a generic resident in their true form, rather than in the form they are
of that Gossamer world. The Shape Shifter can then pass depicted as. However, a Wright can potentially create
through into that world anonymously, appearing as one “trick” Icons, where an Icon appears to be one character
of its denizens in the vicinity of the Door. This is, of but is actually the Shape Shifter mimicking that
course, limited by the Shape Shifter’s ability, as too- character. This way, when the Icon is used, the Shape
dramatic transformations may be too difficult. This Shifter will be contacted rather than the subject depicted
ability only lasts in the Grand Stair for a few moments, on the Icon. Another ruse is to create “incognito” Icons of
and if the Shape Shifter steps away from the Door, the a Shape Shifter, where the image depicted does not match
transformed shape fades almost instantaneously. This the Shape Shifter’s normal appearance. This illusion only
ability does not turn the Shape Shifter into a specific lasts until contact is made, when the Shape Shifter’s true
being, merely a representative type, and has no effect on identity is revealed to the Icon user. In either case, a
clothing, gear, or other accoutrements. It is also an Shape Shifter who is also a Wright can sense when one of
these deceptive Icons is being used to reach them, and
elective ability, and the Shape Shifter can choose to enter may alter their appearance to suit the incoming contact.
a Gossamer world without changing.
Invocation: No matter how different a Shape Shifter
Eidolon Mastery: The rigid discipline of the Eidolon is appears, the True Name is unchanged, and an Invoker
almost antithetical to the focus of the Shape Shifting may even be able to utilize the ability to force the Shape
ability, and as a result, the powers may be at odds. A Shifter to appear in their basic form if a Psychic conflict
character with both of these powers will be pulled in is successful. A Shape Shifter with the Invocation power
opposite directions, between rigid order and between can potentially focus on their own True Name and use it

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as a beacon, a means of shrugging off a too-powerful following suggestions are made. The gamemaster should
personality that has imposed itself over the Shape Shifter adjust points to accommodate these new powers, as
(perhaps through transforming into a far more powerful desired.
presence), or for ridding the Shape Shifter’s body of
negative and undesirable consequences of Shape Ayasha: Shape Shifting
Shifting, much in the same way the Eidolon can be used.
An Advanced Shape Shifter who is also an Invoker may Bastiano: Shape Shifting
be able to change their True Name temporarily, or for
Dayle: Lesser Shape Shifting, her alternate form a silver
longer if considerable effort is expended.
cat-like amphibian.

Mowbray: Advanced Shape Shifting

Canonical Characters with
Shape Shifting
If the gamemaster wishes to incorporate this power into
those characters presented in the core rulebook, the

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