OPTIMUM SKILLS FOR FUDGE (REVISED) Abacus Use This skill enables one to make rapid computations by operating a simple device. Accounting This is the skill of recording, analyzing, verifying, and reporting business and financial transactions and their results. Acrobatics This is the skill of performing gymnastic feats involving superior agility and physical control. Acting This is the skill of representing a character. Areas of Specialization: Stage, Radio, Television, Film, Voice/Dubbing Acupressure This is the skill of applying pressure with the fingers or thumbs to certain points on the body to relieve pain or tension. Acupuncture This is the skill of applying needles to the skin at certain points on the body to relieve pain or cure disease. Administration This is the skill of governing or managing large organizations. Advertising This is the skill of promoting products via various media. Areas of Specialization: Print, Radio, Television, Internet Aerialism This is the skill of performing feats in the air, especially on the trapeze. Aeronautics This skill pertains to the science of atmospheric flight and the design and construction of aircraft. Areas of Specialization: Aeroplanes, Helicopters, Jets Areas of Further Specialization: Commercial, Military Agronomy This skill is a branch of agriculture pertaining to the cultivation of soil and the production of crops. It is also known as Farming. Aikido Alchemy This skill is a medieval forerunner of modern chemistry and a philosophy concerned with achieving certain supernormal goals, such as the transmutation of base metals into gold and the discovery of immortality. As a skill in a fantasy genre, it may pertain to the production of magic potions and elixirs. Ambushing This is the skill of concealing oneself and a group of compatriots and coordinating a surprise attack on a quarry. The attacker with the highest skill in the group makes an unopposed action roll if the party is unsuspecting, or an opposed action roll if the party is alert and taking precautions against an ambush. If the ambush is successful, the ambushed party may not actively defend or retaliate until the second round of combat. Animal Handling This is the skill of training animals. Animal Husbandry This is the skill of raising, breeding, and caring for animals, especially livestock. Anthropology This skill pertains to the study of human beings and their ancestors, and their environmental, cultural, and social relationships. Areas of Specialization: Archaeology, Ethnography, Ethnology, Linguistic Anthropology, Paleoanthropology, Physical Anthropology Appraisal This is the skill of assessing the quality and value of an object. Areas of Specialization: Antiques, Art, Automobiles, Gems/Jewelry, Real Estate, etc. Archaeology This skill pertains to the scientific study of the artifacts, edifices, and fossil remains of past life, cultures, and civilizations. Architecture This is the skill of designing and building structures. Armorsmithery This is the skill of making armor, also known as Armormithing. The listed default skill level of Terrible applies to most nonmetal armor and some metal armor. The default skill level for the most advanced types of metal armor, such as chain mail and plate, is Nonexistent, as it tends to be a very closely guarded secret amongst armorsmiths who divulge it only by word of mouth to a trusted and committed apprentice. Areas of Specialization: Plate, Lamellar, Laminated, Brigandine, Chain Mail, Scale, Bezainted, Studded, Ring Mail, Padded, Quilted, Cuir-bouilli, Leather Armor Use This is the skill of properly wearing and maintaining armor. Artillery This is the skill of maintaining and operating heavy weaponry. Areas of Specialization: Ballista, Catapult, Trebuchet, Cannon, Mortar, Howitzer, Rocket Launcher, etc. Astrology This is the skill of divination by means of the movement of the stars and planets and their influence on people and events. Areas of Specialization: Greek, Chinese, Celtic, Babylonian, Egyptian, etc. Astronautics This skill pertains to the science of space flight and the design and construction of spacecraft. Astronomy This skill pertains to the scientific study of objects and phenomena beyond a planet's atmosphere. Areas of Specialization: Astrometry, Astronautics, Astrophysics, Celestial Mechanics, Chronometry, Cosmology, Planetology, Radar Astronomy, Radio Astronomy, Theoretical Astronomy Athletics This skill pertains to physical activities undertaken in the context of a specific sport. Areas of Specialization: Baseball, Basketball, Bowling, Cricket, Curling, Football, Golf, Hockey, Lacrosse, Polo, Rugby, Tennis, Track & Field, etc. Ballooning This is the skill of maintaining and operating a balloon for observation or transportation. Basketry This is the skill of weaving baskets and wickerwork. Begging This is the skill of acquiring money, goods, or services from strangers by appealing to their compassion. A beggar gains a bonus to skill rolls (at the GMšs discretion) for each real (or faked) handicap or severe disadvantage, such as Blindness, a Missing Limb, or a really convincing story of hardship. Bicycling This is the skill of riding a bicycle. At skill levels of Good or higher, it includes the ability to maintain and make simple repairs. Biochemistry This skill pertains to the science of chemical compounds and processes as they occur in organisms. Biology This skill pertains to the scientific study of living organisms and processes. Areas of Specialization: Anatomy, Biochemistry, Bioecology, Biogeography, Biometry, Biophysics, Ecology, Embryology, Eugenics, Evolution, Exobiology, Genetics, Molecular Biology, Physiology Bionics This is the skill of designing, constructing, maintaining, repairing, and surgically implanting electronic or robotic devices to enhance biological capabilities. Boatbuilding This is the skill of constructing small vessels for transportation over water. Areas of Specialization: Canoe, Row, Sail, Steam, Motor Boatmanship This is the skill of managing a boat. Areas of Specialization: Canoe, Kayak, Row, Sail, Steam, Motor Booby-trapping This is the skill of setting, detecting, and disarming traps intended for people (or other sentient beings). Bookbinding This is the skill of binding, rebinding, and repairing books. Botany This skill pertains to the scientific study of plant life. Areas of Specialization: Applied Botany: Agronomy, Forestry, Horticulture, Hydroponics, Pomology Research Botany: Algology, Bacteriology, Bryology, Dendrology, Economic Botany, Genetics, Geobotany, Mycology, Paleobotany, Plant Cytology, Plant Ecology, Plant Geography, Plant Morphology, Plant Pathology, Plant Physiology, Plant Taxonomy, Pteridology Boxing Brawling This is the informal skill of hand-to-hand fighting utilizing ordinary objects at hand or nonmilitary weapons to defeat one's opponent. Unarmed brawling with the intent to injure inflicts only the standard damage of unarmed combat (typically -1), but any object will raise the offensive damage factor to 0 or higher. -1: bare fists 0: brass knuckles, mugs, studded leather gloves, spiked wristbands +1: bottles, chair legs, frying pans, knives, mallets, rolling pins +2: barrel staves, baseball bats, cleavers, cricket bats, pokers +3: sledge hammers, tables Brewing This is the skill of making fermented alcoholic beverages, such as beer or ale. Bullfighting This is the skill of engaging in ceremonial combat with a bull. Butchery This is the skill of slaughtering animals and preparing meat for sale. Calligraphy This is the skill of ornamental lettering, which becomes a form of meditation when practiced in certain traditions. Camouflage This is the skill of disguising something by means of paint or foliage or other objects so it blends with its surroundings. Carousing This is the skill of engaging in drunken revelry. Higher skill levels are indicative of increased tolerance of alcohol in terms of the amount that may be consumed before judgment is impaired. Alcohol consumed beyond this amount may require one to make unopposed action rolls to avoid loss of consciousness, the difficulty levels of which depend on the type and number of drinks involved. Other substances may be used as areas of specialization, especially for different cultures (or species). Carousing can be a useful skill for gaining valuable information as long as one can remain conscious and not lose one's memory. Carpentry This is the skill of building wooden structures. Cartography This is the skill of making maps. Cartooning This is the skill of writing and drawing cartoons. Areas of Specialization: Comic Books, Comic Strips, Single Frame, Manga Areas of Further Specialization: Editorial, Humorous, Adventure, Science Fiction, Super Hero, Romance, Educational, Advertising, etc. Chandlery This is the skill of making candles. Chemistry This skill pertains to the science of the composition, structure, properties, and transformations of substances. Areas of Specialization: Applied Chemistry: Agricultural Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Petroleum Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Synthetic Chemistry, Textile Chemistry Research Chemistry: Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Physical Chemistry Choreography This is the skill of creating dance routines and instructing the dancers who will be performing them. Ciphering This is the skill of adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing. Climatology This skill pertains to the science of environmental conditions as they persist within a region or period. Climbing This is the skill of ascending a steep surface without a stairway or ladder. Areas of Specialization: Rock, Tree, Wall Cobbling This is the skill of making shoes and boots. Comedy This skill pertains to the craft of humorous performance. Areas of Specialization: Impersonation, Monologue (or Stand-Up), Physical (or Slapstick), Prop, Satire, Situation, Sketch, Vaudeville, etc. Computer Hacking This is the skill of illegally accessing computer systems. Computer Programming This is the skill of writing software. Typical areas of specialization may include specific programming languages. Computer Use This is the skill of operating a computer. Typical areas of specialization may include specific operating systems or applications. Concealment This is the skill of hiding small objects, usually on onešs person. Conducting This is the skill of directing the performance of a musical ensemble. Prerequisites include Musical Notation and Musicianship, otherwise the default skill level is Nonexistent. Connoisseurship This skill pertains to knowledge and expertise in a narrow subject of personal indulgence, and may only be taken with an area of specialization. Areas of Specialization: Cheese, Chocolate, Cigars, Coffee, Malt Liquors, Olive Oil, Pipe Tobacco, Tea, Whisky, Wine, etc. Contortion This is the skill of contorting onešs body into seemingly impossible positions. Cooking This is the skill of preparing food for consumption. There are more styles of cooking than there are nationalities, so only a few are listed below. Areas of Specialization: Cajun, Chinese, Greek, French, Indian, Italian, Japanese, Jewish, Thai, etc. Cooperage This is the skill of making and repairing casques, barrels, kegs, and tubs. Copy Editing This is the skill of preparing and headlining text for print. Cosmetology This skill pertains to the beautification of the hair, nails, and skin. Areas of Specialization: Hairdressing, Manicures/Pedicures, Cosmetics Counterfeiting This is the skill of producing fraudulent imitation money. Countersurveillance This is the skill of defeating devices or techniques used for spying. Criminology This skill pertains to the scientific study of crime, perpetrators of crime, and the effects of punishment. Cryptanalysis This is the skill of solving secret codes. Breaking a code is an unopposed action versus the code's difficulty level. Cryptography This is the skill of enciphering and deciphering secret codes. Creating a new code is an unopposed action in which the rolled degree becomes the codešs difficulty level. Cryptozoology This skill pertains to the scientific study and investigation of legendary terrestrial animals (Sasquatch, the Yeti, the Loch Ness Monster, etc.). Current Events This skill pertains to an awareness of local, national, and/or international news. Certain settings may alter the default level depending on the speed of communication, reliability of sources, and restriction of the media. A medieval society that relies upon troubadours and traveling merchants for news from afar, for instance, might have a default level of Terrible. Areas of specialization are optional, and indicate greater depth of knowledge in specific regions. Cyberware Use This is the skill of operating cyberware to gain entry to a computer network's virtual environment and run cyberprograms within it. This skill must be used in conjunction with Computer Hacking. Dancing This is the skill of performing a dance. Areas of Specialization: Ballet, Ballroom, Belly, Disco, Flamenco, Highland, Hula, Interpretive, Square, Step, Swing, Tap, etc. Debating This is the skill of contending by arguments in a formal, regulated discussion. Demolition This is the skill of making and using explosives. Diagnosis This is the skill of identifying an ailment, injury, or cause of death. Diplomacy This is the skill of conducting international negotiations. Directing This is the skill of supervising the production of a show. Areas of Specialization: Stage, Radio, Television, Film, Animation Disguise This is the skill of altering one's appearance in order to obscure one's identity or assume the identity of another. Distilling This is the skill of making distilled alcoholic beverages, such as whisky. Dodging This is the skill of avoiding a blow in combat or a sudden hazard. Most melee weapons and thrown missiles can be potentially dodged. Dogma This skill pertains to knowledge of the official doctrines of faith and morality proclaimed by an organized religion. Areas of specialization are specific religions, sects, or cults. Drama This skill pertains to the craft of serious performance. Areas of Specialization: Avant-Garde, Classical, Method, etc. Draughtsmanship This is the skill of mechanical drawing. Drawing This is the skill of creating a picture by means of an instrument, typically a pen or pencil. Driving This is the skill of operating a land vehicle or directing the animals pulling a land vehicle. Areas of Specialization: Automobile, Truck, Tank, ATV, Chariot, Wagon, Carriage/Coach, etc. Dyeing This is the skill of imparting a color to something by means of a coloring matter. Ecology This skill pertains to the science of relations between organisms and their environments. Economics This skill pertains to the study of the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services. Areas of Specialization: Accounting, Banking, Business Administration, Consumer Economics, Economic Geography, Economic Theory, International Economics, Investing Electronics This is the skill of designing, constructing, maintaining, and repairing electronic devices and equipment. Electronics Use This is the skill of operating electronic devices and equipment. Areas of specialization are usually devices or systems. Embalming This is the skill of preserving the dead. It is also known as Mortuary Science. EMS EMS, or Emergency Medical Service, is the skill of saving lives and treating injuries at the site of an accident or en route to a hospital. A successful use of EMS achieves the same results as First Aid, but allows a wider range of injuries and ailments to be treated. This skill includes the ability to use emergency medical technology. Engineering This skill pertains to the practical application of science and mathematics to harness energy and utilize matter. It is also the skill of designing, constructing, and repairing complex machinery and/or large-scale projects. Areas of Specialization: Acoustical, Aeronautical, Aerospace, Bioengineering, Chemical, Civil, Electrical, Industrial, Mechanical, Military, Naval, Nuclear, Optical, Petroleum, Production, Safety Environmental Suit Use This is the skill of rapidly donning clothes designed to protect one from dangerous environmental conditions, such as radioactivity, hazardous waste, chemical or biological weapons, asphyxiation, vacuum, high pressure, etc. It is also the skill of applying emergency patches when the suit is punctured or torn. Protection may vary depending on the model or the level of technology of the manufacturer. Escapology This is the skill of escaping from bondage. Etiquette This is the skill of conducting oneself according to the rules of traditional social behavior or prescribed official procedure. Areas of Specialization: Civilian, Military, Court (or Royal), Courtroom (or Legal) Evasion This is the skill of eluding a pursuer, whether on foot or in a vehicle. Exobiology This skill pertains to the scientific study of extraterrestrial life and environments. Exoskeleton Use This is the skill of operating equipment that increases onešs physical strength. Falconry This is the skill of hunting birds by means of a trained falcon. Fanning This is the skill of using one's free hand to rapidly move the hammer of a single action revolver in order to increase its rate of fire from one shot per second to three shots per second. Fast-Talking This is the skill of persuasion by means of usually lively, rapid, and confusing conversation. Fencing Filching This is the skill of surreptitiously and rapidly stealing something that is exposed. Fine Art This skill pertains to knowledge of and expertise in the nature, history, and creation of works of crafted beauty. Areas of Specialization: Painting, Sculpture, Music Areas of Further Specialization: Classical, Renaissance, Baroque, Romantic, Modern, Impressionist, Expressionist, Cubist, Abstract, etc. Fire Eating This is the skill of "swallowing" and "breathing" flames, usually as a circus, stage, or street performance. Fire Starting This is the skill of igniting flames by primitive means. Fire Walking This is the skill of treading upon a bed of hot coals without being injured. First Aid This is the skill of rendering basic emergency medical treatment to the injured with minimal or improvised supplies. A successful result can save someone's life, stabilize their condition, or prevent further injury or infection. It is also known as Emergency Medical Treatment or Emergency Medicine. Fishing This is the skill catching fish. Flight This is a basic skill for beings with the natural ability to fly. Rolls are not necessary except under certain circumstances, such as weather or interference from an antagonist. Flower Arranging This is the skill of making attractive floral arrangements, which becomes a form of meditation when practiced with Zen. Folklore This skill pertains to knowledge of the tales and legends of a people. Areas of specialization are usually cultures and regions. Foraging This is the skill of locating things (usually edible) in a wilderness environment. Forensics This skill pertains to the scientific analysis of evidence. Forestry This skill pertains to the cultivation and care of forests. Forgery This is the skill of falsifying documents or identification. Fortune Telling The ordinary version of this skill is the performance of predicting a subject's future. The paranormal version of this skill is actual precognition of a sort that manifests only with a prerequisite gift such as Psi or Magic, for instance. Forward Observation This is the skill of accurately determining the distance and coordinates of a target and reporting the information usually to an artilleryman or gunner. Freight Handling This is the skill of loading and unloading cargo for delivery or receipt by means of a vehicle. Furriery This is the skill of making, cleaning, and repairing fur garments. Gadgeteering This is the skill of inventing and building ingenious devices that are often portable and concealable. Gambling This is the skill of winning games of chance. Game This is the skill of playing a particular game or type of game. Areas of specialization may be as specific as a single game, or categorized as listed below. Areas of Specialization: Arcade, Board, Card, Computer, Dice, Electronic, Parlor, Role-Playing, War, etc. Genetics This skill pertains to the science of heredity and the manipulation of genetic material in order to introduce or suppress characteristics in an organism. Geography This skill pertains to the science concerned with the interrelationship of the earth's physical, biological, and cultural features. Areas of Specialization: Human Geography, Physical Geography, Regional Geography Geology This skill pertains to the scientific study of the earthšs history as recorded in rocks. Areas of Specialization: Astrogeology, Economic Geology, Geobotanical Prospecting, Geobotany, Geochemistry, Geochronology, Geocosmogony, Geomorphology, Geophysics, Glacial Geology, Metallurgy, Mineralogy, Paleontology, Petrology, Physical Geology, Sedimentology, Seismology, Stratigraphy, Volcanology Glaciology This skill pertains to the scientific study of glaciers and frozen regions of the earth Glassblowing This is the skill of shaping heated glass by blowing air into it by means of a tube. Gravitics This skill pertains to the science of gravity and its application. In certain genres it may also be used in designing, constructing, maintaining, and repairing gravitic devices and equipment. Gunnery This is the skill of maintaining and operating vehicle-mounted weaponry. Areas of Specialization: Ballista, Catapult, Greeks' Fire, Cannon, Machine Gun, Torpedo Launcher, Missile Launcher, Rocket Launcher, Mecha, Spacecraft, etc. Gunsmithing This is the skill of making and repairing guns. Haggling This is the skill of negotiating the price usually of goods bought or sold. It is typically resolved as an opposed action or a series of opposed actions. Hagiology This skill pertains to the study of the lives and writings of peripheral religious figures. Areas of specialization are specific religions, sects, or cults. Hatmaking This is the skill of making, cleaning, and repairing hats. Hawking This is the skill of hunting birds by means of a trained hawk. Heraldry This skill pertains to the knowledge of coats of arms, crests, flags, and banners. At higher skill levels, it also includes knowledge of genealogy and parleying on behalf of an official or aristocratic sponsor. Herbalism This skill pertains to the identification and use of herbs for flavoring or remedies. As a skill in a fantasy genre, it may pertain to the production of magic concoctions and poultices. Hiding This is the skill of utilizing available cover in one's surroundings to avoid being seen. Hiking This is the skill of traversing (usually rough) terrain on foot. A successful Unopposed action roll results in an increased rate of daily movement. History This skill pertains to the knowledge of past events and their causes. Areas of specialization are usually cultures, regions, and periods. Hobby This is the skill of pursuing a recreational pastime, and may only be taken with an area of specialization. Horticulture This is the skill of cultivating plants in a garden or greenhouse. It is also known as Gardening. Hydrography This skill pertains to the science of charting bodies of water. Hydrology This skill pertains to the science concerned with the properties, distribution, and circulation of water on the earth and in the atmosphere. Areas of Specialization: Chemical Hydrology, Ecohydrology, Hydrogeology, Hydrometeorology, Isotope Hydrology, Surface Hydrology, Drainage Basin Management, Water Quality Hypnotism This is the skill of inducing a trancelike state in a subject, which renders the subject susceptible to suggestion. Interdimensional Science* This skill pertains to the science of interdimensional physics, phenomena, and travel. Interrogation This is the skill of extracting information from a possibly uncooperative subject. It is usually resolved as an Opposed action versus the subject's Mind, Mental Capacity, or Intelligence attribute (or the equivalent). Intimidation This is the skill of using the stated or unstated threat of force to obtain cooperation from an unwilling subject. It is usually resolved as an Opposed action versus the subject's Spirit, Willpower, Coolness Under Fire, or Bravery attribute (or the equivalent). Invention This is the skill of creating original technology or methodology and must be used in conjunction with other relevant skills to be successful. Inventory This is the skill of cataloguing or itemizing a list of current assets. Investing This is the skill of committing money in order to earn a return, usually by buying stocks or bonds. Janitorial This is the skill of cleaning, maintaining, and making minor repairs to premises. Jeweling This is the skill of making and repairing jewelry and cutting gems. Journalism This is the skill of gathering and reporting news. Areas of Specialization: Magazine, Newspaper, Newsreel, Radio, Television Judo Jujitsu Jumping This is the skill of leaping, whether by making a standing or running jump. Kalari Payattu Karate Kendo Kite Flying This is the skill of assessing conditions, getting a kite aloft, controlling a kite, and retrieving a kite intact. This skill may also be used to resolve kite fights as an Opposed action between the competitors. Kite Making This is the skill of designing, constructing, and decorating kites. Knapping This is the primitive skill of shaping stone tools and weapons by striking off flakes and otherwise breaking off pieces. Knitting This is the skill of making items of interlaced yarn by means of special needles. Knot Tying This is the skill of forming complex knots as for sailing, fishing, climbing, or other activities. Kung Fu Kyudo Language (Default: Nonexistent; Difficulty: Varies) This is the skill of comprehending and communicating in a verbal or written tongue, and may only be taken with an area of specialization consisting of a specific language. At the GM's discretion, further specialization may be required for Fluency and Literacy. Native speakers list their Language skill as Native, e.g. the author has Language (English): Native. For the purpose of determining how well one communicates in one's native tongue, one would look to such skills as Oratory and Writing. Law This skill pertains to the system of rules of a community and the practice of the legal profession. Areas of specialization may be as general as a particular community, or categorized as listed below. Areas of Specialization: Civil, Corporate, Criminal, etc. Leadership This is the skill of effectively directing the operations of subordinates. Leatherworking This is the skill of making leather goods. Library Research This is the skill of gathering information found in a library in the form of books, periodicals, recordings, microfilm, records, etc. Limnology The skill pertains to the scientific study of bodies of fresh water such as lakes Lip Reading This is the skill of knowing what a person is saying solely by observing the movement of their lips. Literature This skill pertains to knowledge of and expertise in the nature, history, and creation of writings in prose or verse. Areas of specialization may be as general as a particular language, as specific as a single author, or refer to aesthetic styles, literary movements, geographical regions, or historical eras. Lock Picking This is the skill of gaining access to a secure object or door without the means of a key. Locksmithing This is the skill of making and repairing locks. Logistics This is the skill of procuring, maintaining, and transporting military materiel and personnel. Lore (Default: Nonexistent; Difficulty: Varies) Lyrical Composition This is the skill of writing song lyrics. Machine Use This is the skill of operating machinery. Mad Magic* This is the skill, in a cinematic setting, of potentially understanding the nature of any manifestation or implementation of magic encountered, and of using that understanding to alter it or one's own magic. At the GM's discretion, one might be required to take a complementary Gift in order to purchase this skill. Mad Science* This is the skill, in a cinematic setting, of potentially understanding the nature of any scientific advancement, discovery, or theory encountered, and of accomplishing seemingly impossible feats of scientific achievement. At the GM's discretion, one might be required to take a complementary Gift in order to purchase this skill. Management This is the skill of directing the activities of a group or organization. Marketing This is the skill of distributing, promoting, and selling goods and services. Masonry This is the skill of building brick or stone structures. Massage This is the skill of rubbing or kneading parts of the body to relieve pain or tension. Mathematics This skill pertains to the science of numbers and quantities. Mechanics This is the skill of designing, constructing, maintaining, and repairing machines. It is also known as Mechanical Engineering. Medicine This skill pertains to the science of health and healing and includes such areas of knowledge as anatomy and physiology. A result of Fair stabilizes a patient's condition, whereas results of Good, Great, and Superb will generally heal one, two, or three wound levels respectively at the usual rate (typically one wound level per day for ordinary wounds). Healing rates without medical attention are one wound level per week of rest for ordinary wounds. Areas of Specialization: Aerospace Medicine, Anesthesiology, Cardiology, Cytotechnology, Dentistry, Dermatology, Diagnosis, Emergency Medicine, Endocrinology, Epidemiology, Experimental Therapeutics, Family Practice, Forensic Medicine, Gastroenterology, Geriatrics and Gerontology, Hematology, Holistic Medicine, Immunology, Internal Medicine, Medical Jurisprudence, Medical Physiology, Medical Records, Medical Technology, Nephrology, Neurology, Nursing, Nutrition, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Occupational Medicine, Ophthalmology, Optometry, Oral Surgery, Orthodontics, Orthopedics, Osteopathy, Otolaryngology, Pathological Physiology, Pathology, Pediatrics, Pharmacology, Pharmacy, Plastic Surgery, Podiatry, Psychiatry, Public Health, Radiology, Sports Medicine, Surgery, Toxicology, Tropical Medicine, Urology, X-Ray Technology Areas of Further Specialization: Holistic Medicine: Chiropractic, Homeopathy, Naturopathy Meditation This is the skill of achieving and maintaining a state of deep concentration for religious, spiritual, or therapeutic purposes. Mercantile This skill pertains to the profession of merchants and traders. Metallurgy This skill pertains to the science and technology of metals. Meteorology This skill pertains to the science of atmospheric phenomena and weather forecasting. Milling This is the skill of operating and maintaining a mill for grinding grain into flour. Areas of Specialization: Water, Wind Mimicry This is the skill of accurately imitating the sounds of animals or other non-human producers of sounds. Mineralogy This skill pertains to the science of minerals. Mining/Tunneling This is the skill of digging safe subterranean tunnels or shafts. Mixology This is the skill of preparing mixed drinks. Motorcycling This is the skill of operating a motorized two-wheel vehicle such as a motorcycle or motorscooter. Mountaineering This is the skill of scaling mountainous terrain. Muay Thai Mummification This skill pertains to the religious ritual and science of preserving the dead, particularly as performed in certain ancient civilizations. Musical Composition This is the skill of writing music. Musical Notation This is the skill of reading music. Musicianship This is the skill of performing with a musical instrument. Areas of specialization may be as specific as a single instrument, or categorized as listed below. Areas of Specialization: Brass, Electronic, Percussion, String, Woodwind, etc. Navigation This is the skill of determining onešs position, course, and distance traveled. Areas of Specialization: Aeronautical, Astronautical, Nautical, etc. Netmaking This is the skill of making nets, typically for fishing. Ninjitsu Nursing This is the skill of providing care to patients and assisting physicians. Occultism This skill pertains to knowledge about occult beliefs, practices, and societies. In certain genres, it may also apply to practical (?) knowledge of Things Man Was Not Meant to Know. Oceanography This skill pertains to the science concerned with the physical and biological properties of oceans. Areas of Specialization: Marine Biology, Marine Chemistry, Marine Geology, Marine Physics, Marine Engineering Oratory This is the skill of rhetorical persuasion. Orienteering This is the skill of determining one's position and direction of travel on land. It is also known as Land Navigation. Origami This is the skill of artfully folding paper, usually into the shape of animals. Packing This is the skill of loading (an animal) with a pack. Painting This is the skill of creating a picture by means of paint, typically with an instrument for applying the paint, such as a brush. Paleontology This skill pertains to the science concerned with fossils. Parachuting This is the skill of using a parachute to descend from a great height and land safely. It is also known as Sky Diving. Parapsychology This skill pertains to the scientific study of paranormal phenomena such as extrasensory perception, astral projection, and other instances or manifestations of psychic activity. In certain genres it may also apply to knowledge about ghosts and other supernatural phenomena. Pearl Diving This is the skill of hunting for pearls underwater. Perfumery This is the skill of making perfume. Pharmacy This skill pertains to the preparation and dispensation of medicinal drugs. Philosophy This skill comprises aesthetics, epistemology, ethics, logic, and metaphysics in the pusuit of wisdom. There are many areas of specialization, often denoted by the name of the philosopher who originated it. Photography This is the skill of taking pictures with a camera, developing film, and processing and cropping prints. Photonics This skill pertains to the science of photons and their application. In certain genres it may also be used in designing, constructing, maintaining, and repairing photonic devices and equipment. Physics This skill pertains to the science of energy and matter and the manner in which they interact. Areas of Specialization: Acoustics, Astrophysics, Atomic Physics, Biophysics, Chemical Physics, Condensed-Matter Physics, Dynamics, Electromagnetism, Geophysics, Health Physics, Kinematics, Molecular Physics, Nuclear Physics, Particle Physics, Quantum Mechanics, Statistical Mechanics, Thermal Physics, Tribology Piloting This is the skill of operating aircraft and/or spacecraft. Areas of Specialization: Aircraft, Spacecraft Areas of Further Specialization: Aeroplane, Helicopter, Jet, Ornithopter, Rocket, Space Shuttle, Starship, etc. Plant Lore This skill pertains to knowledge about the magical properties of natural or supernatural plant life, how to obtain and/or cultivate specimens, and methods of preparation. Plumbing This is the skill of installing, maintaining, and repairing systems of pipes and other apparatus used for water supply, sanitation, and heating. Pocket Picking This is the skill of surreptitiously stealing something that is concealed on someonešs person, such as the contents of a pocket or purse. Poison Lore This skill pertains to practical knowledge about obtaining, preparing, and using poison in a pre-scientific society. Politics This skill pertains to government and governmental policy and activity. Areas of Specialization: City, State, Provincial, National, International, etc. Pottery This is the skill of making objects from clay (e.g. pots, vases, sculptures), glazing them, and firing them in a kiln. Producing This is the skill of financing and overseeing the making of a show. Areas of Specialization: Stage, Radio, Television, Film, Animation Proselytization This is the skill of converting or recruiting someone to a religion or cause. Prospecting This is the skill of determining the presence of desired mineral resources in an area. Psychology This skill pertains to the science concerned with the mind and behavior. Puppetry This is the skill of performing with puppets or marionettes. Pyrotechnics This is the skill of making and using fireworks. Quick Drawing This is the skill of drawing a weapon and attacking with it rapidly (achieving both actions within a single round). Failure indicates the character was able to draw the weapon, but not quickly enough to use; critical failure (as indicated by a Terrible or worse result or a roll of ­4) means the character has snagged or dropped the weapon. Quilting This is the skill of making quilts. Riding This is the skill of using an animal to transport oneself by being carried upon the animal rather than being pulled in a vehicle. Areas of Specialization: Camel, Elephant, Horse, etc. Ritualism This skill pertains to the knowledge and practice of conducting religious ceremonies and rites. Areas of specialization are specific religions, sects, or cults. Robotics This is the skill of designing, constructing, maintaining, and repairing robots or robotic devices. Running This is the skill of rapidly traversing long distances on foot. Safecracking This is the skill of opening safes without knowledge of the combination. Salesmanship This is the skill of persuading a customer to purchase a product. Savate Scribing This is the skill of copying manuscripts. Scripture This skill pertains to the study of the essential sacred writings of a religious tradition for spiritual and/or scholarly enlightenment. Areas of specialization are specific religions, sects, or cults. Scrounging This is the skill of locating things (usually supplies) in an urban or otherwise developed environment. Scuba Diving This is the skill of swimming underwater by means of an aqualung. Sculpting This is the skill of creating a three-dimensional work of art by means of carving, casting, or otherwise shaping a material. Areas of specialization are usually specific media and/or techniques. Seamanship This is the skill of managing a ship. Areas of Specialization: Galley, Sail, Steam, Petrol, Nuclear Secretarial This is the skill of handling correspondance, keeping records, making appointments, and otherwise assisting the work of an individual or office. Sewing This is the skill of using stitches to unite material by means of needle and thread or a sewing machine. Shadowing This is the skill of following someone undetected on foot. Shield Use This is the skill of defending oneself with a device for blocking blows. Shipbuilding This is the skill of designing and constructing large vessels for transportation over water. Areas of Specialization: Galley, Sail, Steam, Petrol, Nuclear Areas of Further Specialization: Commercial, Military Sign Language This is the skill of communicating by means of gestures. Areas of Specialization: American Indian, American, etc. Singing This is the skill of using the voice to make music, such as chants or songs. Areas of Specialization: Blues, Choral, Crooning, Folk, Jazz, Opera, Yodeling, etc. Skating This is the skill of traversing a surface by means of specially adapted footwear that facilitates an increase of speed. Areas of Specialization: Ice, Inline, Roller Skiing This is the skill of traversing snowy terrain by means of skis. Areas of Specialization: Cross-Country, Downhill, Jumping, Slalom Sleight of Hand This is skill of using dexterity, distraction, and (in some cases) showmanship to create an illusion or conceal an activity. It is often used in the performance of stage magic, and is also known as Legerdemain or Prestidigitation. It is also used by some gamblers for cheating. Smithery This is the skill of making and repairing objects of metal. It is also known as Smithing or Metalsmithing. Areas of Specialization: Bronze, Copper, Gold, Iron, Platinum, Silver, Tin Snowshoeing This is the skill of traversing deep snow by means of snowshoes. Speed Reading This is the skill of reading at a highly accelerated rate. Spelunking This is the skill of exploring caves or caverns. Spinning (Default: Nonexistent: Difficulty: Average) This is the skill of converting fiber into yarn or thread typically by means of a spinning wheel. Sports This skill pertains to knowledge about the history, rules, and trivia of a given athletic pastime. Areas of Specialization: Baseball, Basketball, Bowling, Cricket, Curling, Football, Golf, Hockey, Jousting, Lacrosse, Polo, Rugby, Tennis, Track & Field, etc. Sprinting This is the skill of rapidly traversing short distances on foot. Stealth This is the skill of moving from place to place without being seen or heard. Stewardship This is the skill of meeting the needs of lodgers or clients in a conveyance or hotel. Areas of Specialization: Airline, Hotel, Railway, Ship, etc. Stonecutting This is the skill of quarrying and shaping stone for use. Storytelling This skill pertains to the oral performance of a tale. Strategy This is the skill of devising and implementing plans for engaging the enemy under conditions of best advantage. Sumo Wrestling Surfing This is the skill of using waves to convey oneself to shore by means of a surfboard. Surgery This is the medical skill of performing an operation on a patient. Surveillance This skill pertains to the clandestine monitoring of a person, group, or place. Surveying This is the skill of recording the extent and features of an area for the purpose of mapping or describing it. Survival This is the skill of inhabiting an environment by using its resources and avoiding or negating its hazards. Areas of Specialization: Desert, Jungle, Steppe, Tundra, Urban, Woodland, etc. Swimming This is the skill of traversing through water. Tactics This is the skill of disposing and maneuvering forces in the midst of battle. Tae Kwon Do Tailing (Default: Poor; Difficulty: Hard) This is the skill of following a vehicle undetected. Tanning This is the skill of preparing the hide of an animal for use. Tattooing This is the skill of making permanent images on living skin by means of needle and pigment. Taxidermy This is the skill of preparing, stuffing, and mounting the hides of animals to preserve a lifelike appearance. Tea Ceremony This is the skill of performing the traditional ritual of preparing, serving, and drinking tea, which becomes a form of meditation when practiced with Zen. Teaching This is the skill of instructing others and may only be taken with an area of specialization. Telegraphy This is the skill of using a telegraph to communicate in Morse code over a distance. Temporal Science* This skill pertains to the science of temporal physics, temporal phenomena, and time travel. Theology This skill pertains to the study of religious belief and theory. Throwing This is the skill of using one's hand and arm to propel an object through the air, usually at a target or to a catcher. Tightrope Walking This is the skill of traversing upright across a rope or cord suspended horizontally between two points. Tonsorial This is the skill of cutting hair and shaving faces. Toxicology This skill pertains to the science concerned with poisons. Tracking This is the skill of detecting and interpreting evidence of the passage of persons, animals, or vehicles to determine the direction and speed of travel, the age of the tracks, the number and condition of those being tracked, and other information that may be gleaned. Areas of specialization might be regional. Trapping This is the skill of building and setting traps for animals. Tumbling This is the skill of falling without sustaining injury. Typesetting This is the skill of arranging text for printing. Typing This is the skill of using a typewriter or keyboard for writing. Vaulting This is the skill of leaping by means of a pole. Ventriloquism This is the skill of casting one's voice to appear as if it is emanating from elsewhere. Veterinary Medicine This skill pertains to the science of diagnosing, treating, and preventing disease in animals. Vinification This is the skill of making fermented alcoholic beverages from fruit, such as wine. Weaponsmithery This is the skill of making weapons, also known as Weaponsmithing. The default skill level for some weapons, such as the katana or the swords of Toledo, Spain, is Nonexistent, as their manufacturing process is a closely guarded secret. Areas of specialization may be general weapon types or specific weapons. Weapon Use This is the skill of attacking or defending by means of an object or device. Areas of specialization may be general weapon types or specific weapons. Weaving This is the skill of making fabric of interlaced thread typically by means of a loom. Webmastery This is the skill of designing and maintaining Web sites. Woodcarving This is the skill of making or ornamenting wooden objects typically by means of a chisel, knife, or other tool. Woodworking This is the skill of making furniture, cabinets, doors, window frames, and other useful objects of wood. Wrestling Writing This is the skill of communicating by means of text. Areas of Specialization: Business, Essay, Letter, Fiction, Non-Fiction, Poetry, Technical, Stage, Radio, Television, Film, Animation, etc. Xenology This skill pertains to the scientific study of sentient extraterrestrial life. Yoga This is the skill of practicing a mental and physical discipline of breath control and postures for religious, spiritual, or therapeutic purposes. Zero Gravity Activity This is the skill of moving in a weightless environment. Zoology This skill pertains to the scientific study of animal life. Areas of Specialization: Applied Zoology: Animal Genetics, Apiculture, Veterinary Medicine, Wildlife Management Research Zoology: Arachnology, Comparative Anatomy, Comparative Physiology, Conchology, Embryology, Entomology, Helminthology, Herpetology, Ichthyology, Malacology, Mammalogy, Ornithology, Protozoology, Zoogeography In this revised list of skills, all skills have a default level of Poor and a skill difficulty of Average (with a beginning level of Mediocre) unless otherwise noted. * These skills have a default level of Nonexistent and a skill difficulty of Very Hard (with a beginning level of Terrible). Copyright (C) 2004-2011 by Gordon A. Cooper. All rights reserved. Updated 24 March 2011. http://www.fudgery.net http://www.fudgery.net/parallel/FILES Legal Notice (Fudgery.net) http://www.fudgery.net/parallel/ABOUT Legal Notice (Optimum Fudge) http://www.fudgery.net/parallel/OF