I've come to a situation where I've found myself wanting some system to show personal wealth.
In my campaigns I usually create an inner-conflict amongst the players. It gives depth to characters, and it's a mechanic that ties together even characters with conflicted interests. Also, I enjoy sometimes to pop out the popcorn, lay back and watch the show...
In one of these situations one of the RT-officers wanted the Lord-Captain to give him "a bonus" for his efforts. Unfortunately the system does not allow this in any way, and we explained it to the player.
Then the Navigator charted a new route, and the rules say this gives PF to the whole party... Why? Why would Navigator House Benetek give benefits for charts that Their Navigator has charted? It is clearly said in many, many places that their charts are the most valuable asset and guarded with jealousy. Why on Terra would they make a contract where they would trade these secrets with the RT-dynasty?
After these two events I started thinking of A Profit Modifier that is personal.
In those two events for example.
The Lord-Captain could give the Officer a bonus Plus PF-modifier for job well done, But he would have to give Minus PF-modifier for someone else for the same amount (otherwise PF would be generated from thin air).
The Navigator manages to chart a new path, once succesfully reported to his House he gets the benefit of +1 PF modifier.
Also this gives a way for players to use their personal wealth in their inner conflicts.
Someone on ship is concidering doing some little fraud. He is in charge of the book keeping, so he wants to funnel some assets to his own ends. It's a brilliant idea, and I dont want to say "You can do that, but it wont have any effect on your Acquisition-rolls..".
What I'm thinking is that his +1 will come out of someone else's pocket. This might become a lead to what he is doing (generating much fun and extra plot, out with the popcorn!).
Do you find balancing issues with that?
Do you have more ideas where Plus and Minus modifiers could come from?
Edited by ymrar