Grandfather's Cane
My cane is both a symbol of my weakness, and the instrument of my strength.
Messer Andrews and Shaft,
You recently approached me about exact nature of my cane. At the time, and in the company we were in, I found it objectionable to discuss the true nature of it, however I believe that I can now. However, for me to fully explain to you the nature of it, I must tell you about the origins also.
You see, this cane belong to my grandfather, a wizard in his youth, and very well respected in his day. Back in his day he spent a great deal of time on the road, in that high-risk occupation of adventurer-upon-return, and even managed to survive it and the subsequent ravages of time much longer than his fellows. Unfortunately for him, time took her toll, and he was racked with uncontrollable shakings of the hand and a general weakness of mind and body.
So it came about, that in an attempt to turn back the clock, he went about casting a great multitude of spells over his walking cane. He cast spells of strength and manual dexterity, spells to make him more agile of mind and body, and spells to make him more virile and to give him a more youthful appearance.
However, it would appear that nature possesses a cruel sense of humor. You see, in all his casting my grandfather had strained himself too much, and as soon as he'd finished his great project he collapsed and had died before the local priest could get to him.
Game Notes
This appears to be little more than well-used and well cared for cane. The bonuses it gives are minor, the cane being meant as little more than a cane for the rest of an old man's body. It slightly improves the appearance of the owner, as well as his strength and speed. Also he can remember things better, and he's less likely to loss track of his thoughts midstream.
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? Responses (14)
Interesting piece of irony. A solid item, though depending on how it's used and the exact nature of the benifits, it could become either an enhancement of a good character, or another tool to be exploited by a bad character.
As the bonuses are of a minor nature, it is a useful item for any older wizard (for any old character in fact!), not too powerful but just the thing that you'd wish to have at your side, when the time comes. The main power would be that of improved coordination I guess.
I can imagine that once the process becomes known, wizards will be creating it regularly - a fine base for a Generic Magical Item!
I just knew we had that somewhere, but I had the dag-darnest time trying to find it.
Found and added. Always welcoming new additions.
The idea is wonderful, pragmatic, and practical, complete with a suitable dash of irony. Unfortunately the sub is short, but I guess there isnt too much that can be written on this one.
good job.
An interesting piece.
Could be subject of a low-level adventure in different roles.
I concur the sort of basic item that would almost be created sooner of later
A good solid background item 4/5
I like the simplicity and practicality of the item.
You know, for an added silly effect (as well as more usefulness), it could be enchanted to deal large subdual damage if whacked upon people. While an old gramp hitting people with his cane tends to look laughable, it may be an excellent weapon of protection.
yep, I can see something like that too. Maybe one more quirky 'power' or 'nuance'.
While ironic, I did not need the creator of the cane to die for this item to work for me.
I would think that this would be a 'common item' something any mage might make (though they might put it in a staff). This kind of item could very happily rank up there with charms and little hexed talismans for 'every day' items.
I very much enjoyed the way you explained this item: via letter.
Subtle and handy, useful for those mages recovering from grevious bodily injury as well.