As you read the following chapters, you might find cases where certain rules conflict with others. This is usually done intentionally, as all rules have a hierarchy. In Paths to Eternity, the hierarchy can be explained in terms of general rules (i.e. the rules which govern how things ‘normally’ operate), versus specific rules (rules that only apply in certain circumstances, but often conflict with general rules).
When reading any rule in this ruleset, an important thing to remember is that specific rules take precedence over general rules. For example, as a general rule, characters can only speak the languages they know, however, a specific rule (such as the effect of a spell) may give them the ability to speak an unknown language for the duration of the effect. In this case, because specific rules beat general rules, the character can speak the unknown language, as described by the spell, until the spell ends.
In each relevant chapter you will see a ‘Play Test Instructions’ heading. When you open the toggle, you will see a summary on what the necessary steps are for that chapter.
The character creation process is intended to be as follows;