Courage ♥ is a nebulous attribute that represents the ability to show resolve and coolness in the face of danger and adversity. Most adventurers in Castle Falkenstein have at least a Good Courage (although the rare cowardly adventurer can be drawn in a whirlwind of events beyond his/her control).
Courage can be used as a substitute for Physique in certain tests (for example, staying conscious after taking non-lethal damage or torture).
- Poor ability would mean you faint at the sight of blood, are easily intimidated, and rarely speak up for yourself.
- Average assumes you are sometimes squeamish, but are adept at facing down most everyday intimidations or dangers, such as rude clerks and threats from ruffians.
- Good means you are cool even in life-threatening situations, can face down even armed ruffians, and can even withstand moderate physical pain or privation for hours.
- Great Courage allows you to withstand extreme physical pain or privation for hours; you laugh in the face of whistling bullets and no mere man can make you show the white feather.
- Exceptional Courage allows you to withstand extreme physical pain or privation for days; your will almost never break and you have no problem facing down all but the most terrifying opponents.
- Extraordinary Courage means your will is literally unbreakable; you never doubt, fear or visibly suffer.
Reference: Castle Falkenstein Core Book p160