Strength from Conviction Stance
Template:Cost 4m; Mins: Integrity 5, Essence 3
Type: Reflexive
Keywords: Bridge
Duration: Instant
Prerequisite Charms: Steel Heart Stance or any five Ability Charms
The Lawgiver wears her scars like armor. In a decision point she may cite something precious that she lost in defense of a Principle she still holds. Perhaps she lost an eye or a limb, or had to let go of someone she loved in order to pursue the path she's now on. In doing so, she can resolve the decision point without paying a point of Willpower, and without tapping a relevant Intimacy (if any even exist). This Charm can only be used once per story, but can be reset by successfully resisting influence regarding the defended Principle twice more.
On Strength from Conviction Stance The backer wanted something weighty and emotionally charged — a Charm to help demonstrate the strength and courage of a tremendously dedicated individual who has endured suffering in the pursuit of their cause. This Charm is uncanny, because at a glance it appears simple, but it is a little more complicated than it seems, yet at the same time it's very easy to grasp when looking backward from the social influence system. If you're a little fuzzy on decision points, this Charm functions by modifying the rule on Exalted page 221, third paragraph under the "Overturning Influence" header, about overturning in¬fluence by citing what has come before. Only it expands the definition of what you are allowed to cite, and doesn't require an Intimacy. (You might have lost a Tie when a loved one died, but did you have an Intimacy for your lost eye? Probably not.) It also doesn't require that you be under the effect of an ongoing persuade action; it simply treats your Principle as if it has the weight of a legendary quest. It's also recursive; by waiving your need to tap an Intimacy, you can cite the very same reasons the next time you fall into a decision point. You'll have to pay the Willpower and come up with a new Intimacy if you fall into a third decision point, but I feel the second repetition helps it feel like the Solar's Conviction is profound. Backer: Sean Mattox