Are the Minor Story Virtues, like Blackmail and Animal Companion, really Flaws?
The short answer is yes. Flaws in Fifth Edition are not just things that hinder or limit a character. They are also things that can motivate a character to get out of the covenant and go participate in stories. At first, this seems strange to a lot of readers. Try looking at it this way. A player who chooses those Flaws for his character is making an offer to the storyguide – “I’m putting something in my character background that can be used as a story hook.” That enhances the game for everyone. As a reward, the game offers an extra minor Virtue. Depending on how evil your storyguide is, all of the “benefits” of those Flaws can definitely be made more trouble than they’re worth. That is not necessarily the intent, but if you’re worried about the balance concerns of a Flaw that has significant benefits, be assured: your character can be made to pay for them. Again and again, if necessary.
