Power Defense, Adjustment Powers/Dispel, and Foci

[BoloOfEarth]

If a character has natural Power Defense (IOW, not on a focus), does that protect against Adjustment Powers versus powers in foci worn or carried by the character? 

 

For example, the mage Dr. Weird is fighting Cateran, who has 5 points of Power Defense (Mutant Physiology) and a 2d6 HKA (OAF Claymore).  Dr. Weird casts a Rust Spell at her, a Drain of 15 points.  Does Cateran subtract 5 points from the Drain for her Power Defense, or does her humongous sword lose a full die of damage?

 

 

[Steve Long]

Yes, Cateran’s Power Defense applies in this situation. Generally speaking, the HERO System doesn’t distinguish between a character and a character’s Foci or possessions in these circumstances (though there are some specific rules that take some aspects of this situation into account). Of course, the GM can make that distinction if he wants to, and it’s definitely something I’ll discuss in THE ULTIMATE GADGETEER, if I ever get the chance to write that book.