Learning and Knowledge are intertwined. Learning has an operative activity (study through time and practice) and knowledge. A Body of Knowledge has a scale of multiple levels reflecting general Availability of the information and capability of the referrer to hold, process, and search through the materials. The levels also indicate the overall progressive quantity, quality and scope of information they impart. Knowledge is often reflected as purely information Lore. Full skills, traits, and similar capabilities represent a developed body of knowledge along with ancillary information that is continuously integrated and actively tested and improved on. All study must be done while Hale or it takes double the time without some intervening effect. Access to knowledge is gained through active search of information sources – which have different formats and mediums depending on a culture’s Technology. The source of knowledge can stem from several places, including:
In addition to the normal bodies of knowledge, there usually exists Forbidden/Hidden Knowledge which is kept from most seekers.
Target: To access information, the Body of Knowledge in which the information is being sought must be known. The source must also possess access to the minimum measure of knowledge needed if applicable. Example: The knowledge you are seeking can be found in the Lore: Elves body of knowledge and only by a sage who has at least an Uncommon measure of knowledge.
“ Requires Study“: If some reference work or communicated knowledge “requires” formal study, it may also indicate at what level the studier must have with the communication mechanism/language the communication is being done in. All study must be done while Hale or it takes double the time without some intervening effect.
“Do you know this?” This is a simple check that determines whether or not the information or practice can result in an immediate positive outcome.
“Can you find this?” Using time and/or activity to consult one or more sources for a positive outcome. Combining sources to search and discover information allows the searcher to use the highest of the sources levels. If more than 1 source is used, each additional source of higher measure than their starting point (lowest possessed by initial source) grants +1 on the search check. Without technological assistance a character can cross reference no more sources at once than their Reason (intelligence, etc.) bonus. A seeking for information by those lacking the frame of reference or ability to ask the right questions can impose penalties on all factors. The factors involved will vary by setting.