UH - Version 3?

Rule

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Even in a world where magic, science and faith let people perform fantastic and amazing deeds, there are boundaries and limits. The rest of the system is based around a number of core assumptions as follows:

Anyone who dedicates themselves to a task is capable of achieving things that defy expectation but are really cool. A skilled thief might move unseen through a crowded room, or leap the full width of a street. High level characters should be able to do awesome things. Low level characters are still scrubs who can fail hilariously even the most basic tasks.

Magic is based on an extension of understanding. It allows a character to exert influence within their area of understanding. It cannot create but it can change. Energy to make these changes is drawn from the caster but may be supplemented by ritual preparation. To use magic to change something requires physical contact with a part of it. The study of high level magic and knowledge of advanced rituals was common but is now rare.

The gods are real and powerful but they can't act directly on the world, only grant that power to their followers and those they think will act in their interests. It is widely but not universally accepted that the faithful live on after death and the godless fade away. Those gifted power by the gods are more often out in the world being impressive than they are leaders of churches. It's also possible to draw power from the lingering souls of the faithless, however one of the few areas that all the churches agree is that no-one should ever do this.

Science is on a par with magic in terms of the impact it can have on the world, and widely believe to be safer. Alchemical transmuters can change the properties of materials, making wood as hard as steel or metal that bends like cloth. Augmenters brew potions that can bring joy or sorrow, quicken the mind or strengthen the body. Reactionists specialise in the creation of heat, light and smoke brought about by the mixing of materials. Binders produce adhesive pastes, frictionless greases and even preparations that attract and repel from a short distance. The study of medicine stretches beyond first aid and into setting bones and curing poisons and diseases.