While the modern day character sheets will be Night's Black Agents, a template for Epistolary characters is laid out here;
These characters are meant to be legendary or mythic figures - the abilities are meant to be what they are heroically good at. Characters can still be adept at abilities they didn't take, it's just not what defines them.
My advice for running this template is to think of how you solve problems, and how you personally approach learning new things. This character should be an embodiment of your learning and thinking methodology taken to a poetic maximum. This template, then, is less about balancing in a conventional sense, and more about a declaration of what you think is useful and enabling to you.
Name:
Concept:
Years active:
Authority:
I have no power within any institution, and no obligations
My position commands respect, and scrutiny
I have a very powerful title indeed, and must manage its consequences
Wealth:
I am comfortable and unburdened within my means (Take one more Ability)
My resources are substantial
My money moves mountains (Take one fewer Ability)
People:
I work alone, others cannot keep up with me
I have a loyal and talented assistant to complement me
I manage, or am a member of, a small but capable team
I lead a large force of lackeys, minions or subordinates.
Ability (Pick two):
I am academic and well-read on a vast number of subjects, from the esoteric to the occult.
I have well-honed reaction speeds and keen instincts. My sense for danger borders on precognition.
I am a capable rogue, a master of the break, the enter, and the clean exit, with extensive black market connections
I am an adroit engineer, well versed in the practical and mechanical
I am a champion with the weapon, or weapons, of my choosing
I have a tongue of silver and can effortlessly bluff, sweetalk or deceive
I am a Doctor, well versed in the scientific method, the running of experiments, and the diagnosis of ailments.
I am a rugged survivalist, capable of surviving indefinitely in the wilderness
I wield an indomitable mental fortitude, my willpower is absolute
These characters are meant to be legendary or mythic figures - the abilities are meant to be what they are heroically good at. Characters can still be adept at abilities they didn't take, it's just not what defines them.
My advice for running this template is to think of how you solve problems, and how you personally approach learning new things. This character should be an embodiment of your learning and thinking methodology taken to a poetic maximum. This template, then, is less about balancing in a conventional sense, and more about a declaration of what you think is useful and enabling to you.