[BNW] Sci-fi or Supernatural?

["Lindharin" <lindharin@telluri.com>]

Hi,

I have few very fundamental questions about this setting that I hope someone
can help me with.  So far I just have the main rule book, though I'm trying
to track down a few of the other books in my area.  In the meantime, I'd
really appreciate it if someone could fill in some conceptual background
about Vampires and Delta abilities.

First, I've looked through a few months of the mailing list's archives (Good
luck finding work, Matt!!) and there were a few posts that implied that
delta powers are of supernatural (as opposed to super-science or "natural"
mutations) origin.  Sure, that seems likely for the Bargainers, and
presumably the Covenants, but what about the rest?  Is there evidence that
the Gadgeteer or Blaster are "supernatural" in origin?  Were there any
Deltas prior to WWI?

Second, have we learned anything more about vampires?  Any ideas whether
they are just a "weird" sort of Delta that popped up this century due to
popular familiarity with that archetype?  Or are they really a separate form
of supernatural critter that has been around for centuries?

While I'm definitely interested in those specific topics, I guess the
underlying issue is that I'm trying to get a feel for how "mystical" (for
lack of a better word) the canon setting is supposed to be.  Most of the
core book gave me a somewhat gritty, somewhat cinematic action feel, with a
high-tech/science bent, but there were a scattering of things that clearly
imply a more supernatural thriller approach (the Faith skill, Bargainers,
Vamps, etc.).  To what extent is the "modern" or "high-tech" feeling
actually just a mask for underlying supernatural stuff, or vice versa, or do
they both co-exist?  Is a Gadgeteer a super-scientist, or an alchemist with
delusions about being a scientist?  Is a vampire a supernatural demon made
flesh, or a mutant human who read too many horror stories before awakening
as a Delta?

I realize that I can put my own spin on the setting and choose which way I
prefer, but I'm curious what we know about the canon setting's intended
flavor.  And if the answers include spoilers, feel free to send them to me
off-list (lindharin@telluri.com) or put in spoiler warnings.

Thanks!
Lindharin