Cortex Link

The human nervous system is pathetically slow. This is particularly important in combat. Cybertechnology can overcome this problem by bypassing the conscious decision-making process. When under a Cortex Link, you become very direct, focusing totally on attack and defense.

For each time you Pick Cortex Link, add +1 to your Speed for initiative tests. One schtick is unobtrusive. Two schticks can be detected by sensors. Three schticks makes the enhancement visible at close quarters. Four schticks (the maximum possible) require external antennas and sensors that are obvious at a distance when the schtick is in use.

While on the Cortex Link, many of your higher functions are bypassed or automated. You will react instinctively, and often violently. Any use of Intelligence, Charisma, Fortune, Fu or Magic points or skills are distracting in this hyped state, and using them while on the Cortex Link suffers an Action Value penalty equal to the initiative bonus provided by the link. The link can be shut off to avoid this penalty, but that might require you to turn it on as a 3-shot action if a combat suddenly erupts.