Progression: Dream Control

DREAMS - LUCID DREAMING/ONEIROMANCY

Note: Possession of the World Shard of a location allows one to exert control when in the corresponding area of the Dream as if one has ability one level higher, but only within that area. Since Shards only correspond to specific locations, there is no overlap possible.

0) Lucid Dreaming - Some naturally develop this ability. Others learn how to exercise this ability through training or other methods. In all cases, the most basic control over Dreams gives one weak control over their own Dreamscape, and the ability to leave it and travel freely. Weak control is generally defined as the ability to create and maintain a single simple object or make small environmental changes. One might enter the Dreamscapes of others, depending on the situation and the target. This level of control is generally available for any character for whom it makes sense. It does not lock off any other Progression Paths.

1) Dream Manipulation - This stage allows one to easily engage in the alterations given by Lucid Dreaming, as well as beginning to extend their influence to a greater degree. At this point, moderate control of their personal Dreamscape is possible (as defined by being able to create unlimited simple objects or one or two complex objects, or significantly altering the environment. These changes can last until you leave the area or wake up) as well as being able to engage in weak manipulation of the Dreamscape of others. One can establish basic control over Nightmares or Dream Eaters if one has the wish to. This is also the point where one can escape the Dreaming Worlds and travel the Dream itself. The character may gain a second Form to be used only in the Dreaming World that has a higher CST than base.

2) Dream Control - At this stage the ability of the dreamer is such that they can begin locating specific Dreamscapes and exert complete control over their personal domain. Their ability to exert control decreases to moderate outside of that domain, but the definition of ‘domain’ becomes a little fuzzy at this point, as one can begin expanding their Dreamscapes, and carrying it with them. The area can be fairly large (distance is, after all, relative in dreams), but the stronger one’s Heart and Mind are, the greater it can be. The scope of an entire Dreaming World is beyond someone at this level, however. The power of hundreds or thousands of minds still cannot be overridden so easily. One with a strong enough Mind and Heart could potentially establish control over another’s Dreamscape until the point that the victim awakens, this able to be used for potentially good or evil purposes. This is not mind control. It can affect someone’s mental state over time if applied repeatedly, but there is no direct control established. When travelling the Dream, one can make weak manipulations from the raw potential of the Dream itself while travelling if need be. One can call Dream Eaters or Nightmares to their side in number, if they wish. The character gains a significant CST boost when in the Dream as well.

3) Dream Mastery - At this point, nearly anything is possible within dreams. The pinnacle of the craft, one can use their ability for great good, or great evil. One can begin insinuating their desires into a Dreaming World, making changes over time. Such things do not go without notice, however. One also still cannot alter a dreaming person’s mind directly. Such things are not within the power of Dream. The character is also incredibly strong within the Dream.

Control  |  Personal Dreamscape | Other Dreamscapes | Dreaming World | The Dream
  0      |          Weak        |       None        |       None     |   None
  1      |        Moderate      |       Weak        |       Weak     |   None
  2      |        Complete      |      Strong       |     Moderate   |   Weak
  3      |        Complete      |     Complete      |      Strong    |  Moderate

• WEAK: Small, temporary changes. A simple object or small envrionmental change, that lasts until they leave, it is countered by someone with a stronger Mind or greater control, they stop concentrating, or they wake up.
• MODERATE: Several simple items or one or two complex items, moderate environmental changes. These changes might last for some time after they leave, or smaller changes might last until the dreamscape in question dissolves or is changed by someone else.
• STRONG: Many complex items, total environmental control. These changes could last a very long time.
• COMPLETE: Total control. One can make any changes they desire within this space that will persist until the Dreamscape is dissolved or altered. If one is altering another’s Dreamscape, they have to subdue the host’s Mind and Heart in order to do so. This might be problematic in some instances.