Fatemaster Rank Values and Actions

[gozer]

I don't really understand when Rank Values should be added to the actions of Fatemaster Characters. Using an example of the Illuminated on Page 187; this minion can make a Scintillating Cloud with the following stats:

(1) Scintillating Cloud (Enchanting)
AV: 5M (11M) Rg: 8 Resist: Df
Target suffers 2/4/5 damage.
MM Filled with Stars: After damaging, the target
gains the following Condition until the end of this
turn of Dramatic Time: “Brilliant Aura: Characters
within 1 yard of this character have the Brilliance
characteristic.”

I have a few questions here:

1. Does the Illuminated always have an acting value of 11 when it attacks with Scintillating Cloud? Is there ever a time when the base acting value of 5 is considered alone or is it always modified by the rank value?

2. Will the Filled with Stars trigger only occur if the defense flip shows a mask? Also, if it does show a mask, can players cheat that mask with another card?

3. Can a Fatemaster character ever get a higher acting value than their Rank Value + Base Acting Value?

I think the answer to both questions is yes, but the rules on page 6 of the Fatemaster's Guide specifically state: "This rank is not used to determine a set number the Fatemaster Character always achieves."

 

Thank you!

[solkan]

There are two main reasons why the action includes the base acting value:

• You want to have an Illumunated with a different station or rank, as described in Raising the Stakes.  
• You want to give the Action to a different character.

As for the paragraph that starts "This rank is not used to determine a set number that the Fatemaster Character always achieves.", see the second paragraph in essentials.  That paragraph is just trying to reinforce other points, it's not saying anything special.

It's worth pointing out that you're asking about the 1st edition of the game.