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The Matrix is real only because the mind makes it real. As a Free Mind comes to realize this truth, it gains an increasing ability to deny the Matrix and, eventually, to influence it. Through an almost spiritual path of enlightenment, Free Minds break the bonds that once held them in place, kept them in servitude to the Machines. Their power is known as Zen.

There are three levels of Zen enlightenment. As one progresses through these levels, one gains additional abilities. Of course, Zen powers can only be used in the Matrix. (The sections in parentheses will tell you how to use each Zen level in game terms.)

Level One: More Human Than Human

Free Minds are stronger, faster, tougher, and more agile than enslaved humans. These advantages begin subtlety, and the feats of most Free Minds are easily dismissed by skeptics as tricks or strange luck. As one progresses along the path of Zen, however, one's supernatural abilities become harder and harder to conceal... and easier for the Machines to search the Matrix for.

(A character's Zen score determines the degree of positive modifiers that should be applied to all their physical actions when inside the Matrix. Level One gets a minor (1) bonus, Level Two deserves an average (3) bonus, and Level Three grants a superior (5) bonus.)

Level Two: Jump!

Gravity is usually the first of the Matrix's rules that a Free Mind learns to bend. At this level of Zen, one can perform "impossible" feats like running up walls, jumping incredible distances, and making complex, acrobatic leaps. This is as far as most Free Minds progress, but it's usually far enough.

(These feats require no additional skill checks or anything; treat them like any other athletic stunt and apply their Zen bonus for physical actions.)

Level Three: There Is No Spoon

A few Free Minds are able to subtlety influence parts of the Matrix beyond their own bodies. Such individuals seem to succeed despite impossible odds because events conspire to aid them. They can also pull off Zen feats with cars and other vehicles, which makes them valuable wheelmen. They tend to be extraordinarily enlightened people who understand the inner workings of the Matrix on an instinctual level.

(Characters with this Zen level can make Willpower-related ability or attribute checks to twist coincidental events in their favor. If the change they're trying to make is a continuous effect, they must maintain concentration and take a penalty to other actions they attempt at the same time.)