One-off characters can evolve into [[Allies, Contacts, and Rivals]]. These recurring characters introduce information, assistance, or peril. It creates a sense of continuity and richness in the world and allows your characters to build relationships they can feel invested in. A positive relationship with a Contact means they are your Ally and will strive to help you with whatever they can. A negative relationship with a Contact earns their ire, making them a Rival who will seek to complicate your life whenever possible. You may even find that these characters take on a life of their own and could become player characters, as they already have an established relationship with the party (See *[[Starting Anew]] > Upgraded to Protagonist*). Remember that relationships come with commitments: some Contacts might require payment or request a favour, while others only wish for the characters to put time and effort into maintaining their relationship. If the characters are unwilling or unable to upkeep these commitments, it impacts their Contacts’ willingness to help and potentially their relationships with other party members, their reputation, or the world at large.