COMMUNICATIONS SKILL: LITERACY: NATIVE LANGUAGE
The character can read and write the language of their culture. This is
usually the common language where the character was born and grew up
(or has lived most of their life). For example, most people born in
America speak, read and write American English, complete with
contemporary slang. English is their predominant language, even if
their ethnic heritage has roots in another country (Mexico, Poland,
Russia, Cuba, etc.). Reading and writing means the character can read
and comprehend the written word, read written instructions, printed
books, etc. This skill has no bearing on creative writing.
Note: The ability to read and write is a rare and valuable
commodity on Rifts Earth. The majority of the world's population can
not read. Illiteracy is encouraged by the Coalition States (and other
kingdoms) as a means of keeping the secrets of the past for themselves,
and their people ignorant and under their control. Within the CS only
scientists, engineers, military leaders, and the elite aristocracy are
literate (typically in American only). Outsiders who can read are looked upon with suspicion or as dangerous freethinkers.
Prerequisites: None.
Base Skill: 40%.
Per Experience Level: +5%.