Editing MTH:Social Merits (section)

===CODE (free)===

EFFECT: The character has made an internal promise to his- or herself, and adhering to this promise bolsters the character’s spirit.

Mechanically, a Code regains the character a spent point of WP or Verve whenever that character adheres to their Code in a situation where doing otherwise would be beneficial to that character.

The heroic Codes held to by some heroes, such as Batman's refusal to use a gun, are the most commonly recognized type of Codes, but any similar rule an individual holds to sincerely can form a Code. A criminal who always leaves clues to her crimes in the form of riddles is following a Code.

Codes can be complicated or simple, with multiple prohibitions and requirements or just a single one. A Code with more restrictions will come into play more often, yielding more willpower, but will also inhibit the character more. Since the power in a Code comes from the conviction involved with it, paying lip service to a Code will not give any benefit.

Mechanically, a Code is similar to a Vice, except that the character gains Willpower from resistance, not indulgence, and this benefit can be derived more than once a scene.

Breaking a Code causes a degeneration.

God Machine Chronicle rules update: Breaking a code is a Breaking Point.