In
contrast to Embeds, Exploits are not subtle at all. While they use the same
metaphysical subroutines as Embeds, they are not relearned or remembered
abilities but rather gross applications of the knowledge that the character
already has. If an Embed is a word, and a set of Key Embeds is a sentence, then
an Exploit is a shouted expletive. As such, Exploits are effective but run the
risk of drawing attention.
Consider
once again the metaphor of the child using the hole in the fence to sneak
through a neighbor’s yard. Applying that metaphor to Exploits, the child might
kick the loose board free and use it to shatter the neighbor’s glass patio
door. An Exploit takes the knowledge imparted by an Embed and uses it to
better, or at least more dramatic, effect. Unlike Embeds, though, Exploits are
obvious and flamboyant, and therefore a risk to a demon’s Cover.
An
Exploit relies on a demon’s knowledge of the world’s metaphysical subroutines,
just like Embeds, but instead of gently applying this knowledge, the demon
forces Aether into the system, overcharging it and directing the result. While learning
to use an Embed is a matter of re-acquiring knowledge that the demon had as an
angel, learning to use an Exploit is more a matter of application. Angels
therefore do not use Exploits — even their more grandiose powers are perfectly
in line with their missions and therefore the parameters laid down by the God-Machine.
An angel that decides to emulate a demon, pushing energy through the world’s
mystical framework just to see what will happen, is probably on the verge of
Falling.
Learning
a given Exploit requires that the demon has the knowledge base to do so. For
example, in order to learn the Hellfire Exploit, the demon needs to understand
how the subroutines work with regards to firearms. This means that
the demon needs to know
an Embed such as Check Backdrop or Merciless Gunman. Each Exploit lists a few
potential prerequisite Embeds, but the demon need not know all of them in order
to learn the Exploit. Indeed, if the player can make a convincing case for a
why a given Embed enables the character to learn a given Exploit, the
Storyteller should allow it. Demons are masters of lateral thinking — they had
to be in order to Fall.
Systems
Exploits do not fall into categories the way Embeds do, nor do
they require conceptual underpinnings. They rely on the demon forcing the
mystical power of Aether into the same subroutines that allow Embeds, and then
keeping that burst of power under control. They are more overtly powerful than Embeds,
but they draw attention.
Every use of an Exploit causes a roll to avoid breaking Cover. The Storyteller
should add modifiers to this roll based on how blatantly the character is
acting out, how many people (not demons) can see the action, whether any angels
can see the action, and whether or not any other Exploits have taken place during
the scene. The player can spend a point of Willpower to avoid this roll.