Copyright © 2001 by Robert J. Hall

Contents

Agony, Whip of Antiarch Sword Avenging Scimitar Barbed Arrows of Homing Battering, Sling of Black Bow of Panic Bright Sword of Nemacles Broken Tooth Brytwegne Columbrae Displacement, Sword of Hawk Sling Holy Crusader Swords Hornet Pick Ironhater Staff

Isyluss, the Fur Flayer Lucky Penelope Mace of the Last Word Maul of Quaking Moon Dancer Fork Nerve Bolts Night Sword Ochra's Marvelous Missiles Persnikety Requite Saber of Maxillan Shark Fang Axe Shock Knife Skull Bludgeon Spectral Flail

Spectral Sword Stalker Blade Storm Biter Blade Sword of Valorous Runes Sylvan Sword of Strife Tripart Spear Valiant Defender Blade Venial Bow Vorpal Blade Ware Blade Winged Javelin Woodland Stave Xynthal, The Demon Slayer Zhorikxyl the Death Bringer

Agony, Whip of

This black leather whip has an intricately woven grip and a spherical knot at the tip. The whip has an unpleasant tingling sensation when it is grasped. Upon striking its intended target, the whip will inflict a sting so agonizing that it often leaves the victim stunned from pain and struggling just to catch his breath.

Antiarch Sword

Save for the pommel, this dull steel sword will appear to be rusted and pitted with age when first discovered. Yet a thorough cleaning will reveal that it is still a very workable weapon. The hand guard is unusually elaborate and resembles the interlocking claws of a bird of prey. A large sapphire is mounted in the pommel and glows with a faint inner light. The intricately decorated blade is shaped as a broadsword with a slight notch in the back near the tip.

Despite the appearance of the sword once clean, it is not magical in nature. Quite the opposite in fact, as the very essence of the sword is utter antipathy toward magic. Any spells cast on the sword or its wielder are likely to work poorly, if at all. This makes the weapon highly valuable for those who hold a strong dislike for Wizards, and need a tool to hunt down practitioners of the dark arts.

Avenging Scimitar

This otherwise marvelous scimitar is possessed by the tormented soul of Talon Magistri, a demented spirit who exists only to cause terror in others. Each time the weapon is wielded, the spirit projects dark images into the mind of its foe, often causing weak opponents to flee in terror. Talon will use this same ability to slowly drive his owner into a like state of torment. Only the strong willed can carry this weapon without succumbing to the gruesome images, and those of a goodly nature will soon seek to be rid of the Magistri.

The unusually long handle is wrapped in tough, black silk, with a tassel hanging from the end, and a large sapphire mounted on both sides of the hand guard. The blade is polished mirror smooth, but dark shadows appear to dance across its surface from time to time. The central groove is cut in a repeating saw-toothed pattern, and the weapon is heard to make a faint rasping sound each time it enters living flesh.

Due to its cunning design, this enchanted Scimitar has the ability to inflict very nasty bleeding cuts, often causing much damage beyond the initial wound. The wielder also gains the ability to see by star light, and has an innate combat sense that allows him to fight even in total darkness. This weapon will serve well an assassin who can master its tormented spirit.

Barbed Arrows of Homing

These magical arrows have a barbed bronze tip, a perfectly straight dark green shaft, and bright green tail fins. They are uncannily accurate at any distance and spin while in fight to maintain stability over longer ranges. The barbed tip produces a nasty wound and is very painful to remove.

Battering, Sling of

This sling is unusual for its iron bullet cup and the colorful silken cords with which it is swung. It requires a full phase for the weighty sling to be spun up to full speed. Once the bullet is unleashed, it magically grows in size during flight until it is a small boulder. After the impact the bullet returns to its previous shape and size.

Black Bow of Panic

This dire bow was given to the Orcish hero Bhulagh the Foul by the high shaman of the seven hordes as a means to defeat the Silver Knights of Tuant Bore. Indeed, so well did the dire arrows drawn from this quiver sow terror in the minds of the horde enemies that the Knights were routed from the field. The horde ran amuck in the Tuant Bore plains, laying waste to fields, villages and towns. It was only with the intervention of the Circle of Tolaugh that Bhulaugh was slain and bow taken from the horde.

The bow is carved from a single piece of iron wood and soaked in boiling blood for a period of one month. It is then dried for three days and nights, then painted black, coated with boiling wax, and polished to silky smoothness. The grip is formed from the hide of a black bear.

When an arrow is fired at a target, it can have a devastating effect on the morale of the victim and those in the immediate proximity. Wave upon wave of terror are projected from the protruding shaft of the arrow. Only the strong willed can survive this assault and retain their cool in combat.

Bright Sword of Nemacles

This unique short sword is currently owned by the dwarven profiteer and bungling con artist, Murgar Briclebak. Born of the fire of pure sunlight, the Sword of Nemacles glows a steady, brilliant white. The smooth handle is a precious cylinder of crystal-clear amber, attacked to the blade by an elaborate hand guard. The perfectly symmetrical blade is shaped as a leaf, and a careful touch of the glowing surface will reveal an engraved sunburst pattern on each side. A specially lined scabbard is required to prevent light from leaking out when the blade is cached, such as the gaudy mink fur scabbard used by Murgar.

Those fighting against this magic weapon will have a most difficult time seeing their opponent clearly through the glare. The sword can also emit a brilliant flash of light that can momentarily blind all who are nearby. Fortunately, the wielder is protected from this flash, and from other sources of brilliant light. In addition, once per day, this sword can dispel any single magic spell that draws its power from the darkness (such as a Darkness to Sight spell created by a Shadow Mage.)

Broken Tooth

At one time this was a magnificent holy sword with glowing silver runes that ran the length of the blade. It carried many powerful enchantments that made it a proud weapon with a righteous, dominating spirit. The pride of this weapon proved to be its undoing, however, and the blade was shattered during an ill considered conflict.

As a result the blade is now little more than an especially wide short sword with a jagged point. The enchanted spirit that was bound into the blade was released when the blade was broken, and the sword is now only a poor shadow of its former glory. Nevertheless this weapon is still a useful tool in the hands of a skilled swordsman and possesses some useful magical abilities.

Brytwegne

The "Sword of Many Enemies" has a long and bitter history in the eastern land of Sobyrin. The hilt of this bronze sword depicts the head of an enraged man, with black pearl eyes and ivory teeth. The hand guard consists of a ring of sharp fangs, firmly set in the hilt.

In addition to being a very fine weapon, Brytwegne has the ability to greatly enrage its foes, pushing them into rash actions during combat.

The blade has two unusual defects that make it hazardous for any except a master swordsman to wield. Each time the weapon bloodies a foe, the edge will grow more dull. The weapon must be regularly sharpened between each fight to keep the edge honed. In addition, those who are struck by a freshly sharpened blade will become mortal enemies of the wielder. However, in the hands of a worthy owner, few who are so bloodied ever live to sate their hatred.

Columbrae

The blade of this beautiful Falchion is engraved with the image of two bare-chested wrestlers locked in a perpetual struggle. The hilt is wrapped in a soft animal hide, and the heavy guard has the form of two intertwined snakes. A maroon silk tassel is attached by a pin to a simple golden knob at the end.

This sword is possessed by two raging spirits who constantly dual for control of the weapon. As a result, although the weapon has very useful powers, it is quite unreliable to use. When a spirit gains control of the weapon, its powers go into effect for that turn. The possessing spirit will constantly seek to sway the wielder to his views, often becoming an annoying distraction during combat.

The prevailing spirit is determined randomly at the end of phase 12, with Reston in charge on a 9 or below; Lango with a 12 or higher; and a draw on a 10 or 11. In the case of a draw, neither spirit is in charge and neither can communicate his powers to the wielder. Regardless of the result, the weapon will still deliver an uncommonly nasty blow.

Displacement, Sword of

The hilt of this sword is very unusual in that it consists of a double ivory hilt with the unused grip serving as a knuckle guard. There is a flat bar guard and pommel attached at each end to the grips. The blade is a slender leaf shape with an ornate intertwined snake symbol along the length of the blade where a groove would normally be found.

When wielded in combat the blade of this magical sword is displaced slightly in space and time so that it strikes in a location a short distance away from where it appears to swing. This makes it difficult for an opponent to parry or dodge. Otherwise this sword is well balanced and a pleasure for a warrior to wield.

Hawk Sling

Legendary among the little people, this weapon was a gift from the winged folk to a brave halfling warrior who rescued and healed their injured child king. The sling later came to be employed by the noted half-eleven bard Llystruen before being lost during the battle of Kharden's Bluff.

Attached to the cup of this otherwise plain sling are several stripped hawk's feathers that whistle through the air when the weapon is whirled. The missile leaves the sling along an unusual trajectory that curves around to strike the target in the back. If this attack has not been witnessed before, it can catch an opponent completely by surprise. The sling is unusually accurate at longer ranges, and will protect the wielder during a long fall.

Holy Crusader Swords

Legend holds that there are at least six of these holy blades, although the location of only two are known at present. The recorded names of the swords are "Truth", "Justice", "Loyalty", "Valor", "Honor", and "Salvation". The Sword of Justice serves the head knight of the Order of the Sacred Chalice, while the Sword of Honor is carried by the D'nar Bhlit, a guardian spirit who wanders the Ironwyrm graves among the Glard Barrens.

Each sword possesses a powerful inner spirit that will refuse to serve anybody who is not worthy of its chivalric code. When the sword is grasped, the spirit attempts to mentally link with the wielder, and then to judge the character of that person. Those judged unworthy, or actively preventing any mental contact, will be given a jolt of pure energy each time they attempt to grasp the hilt.

In addition to being a powerful weapon, the Holy Crusader swords ward the wielder against disease and mental control. When drawn from its scabbard, the sword glows with a pale blue light, sufficient to provide illumination in a 1" radius. Each named sword also has a separate special power to aid the wielder in his quests.

Hornet Pick

The origins of this weapon are a mystery, as it was unearthed by grave robbers searching a newly discovered crypt mound in the northern highlands. It has since passed from owner to owner, never making much of a name for itself, and rumor has it possessed by an ancient curse.

The lengthy shaft is tightly wrapped in black and golden fur pelts, forming a wasp-like pattern. Much like a Crow's Bill, the heavy pick is bent back toward the handle, forming a slight hook. Shorter barbs are attacked to both ends. When swung in battle, this weapon makes an angry buzzing noise, much like a wasp.

Ironhater Staff

During the time when the northern tribes were being conquered by an iron wielding empire, the druids of these primitive people created a set of magical staves to fight their conquerors. These staffs were made from rare wych wood, then bathed in the blood of captive enemies, and then dried and enchanted in a sacred stone ring on the first day of spring.

The staff appears to be an ordinary length of wood, but is as hard as steel. It functions normally against unarmored targets or those wearing leather or hide for protection. However, the staff will readily shatter metal armor, greatly reducing its effectiveness.

Only a few of these items still remain, and they are greatly valued by wilderness dwellers and those who are unable or forbidden from employing iron or other metals.

Isyluss, the Fur Flayer

This strange weapon was created for use by a lizardman champion against their eternal enemies, the fur-bearing races. It consists of a knobby, polished bone hilt and pommel, and a "blade" that resembles a long, flat, tapered snake. Two parallel rows of short ivory fangs line both edges of this blade, curving back toward the hilt. At the point of the weapon is a pair of slender curved fangs bending in toward the center.

When wielded in a menacing fashion, the fangs gnash and wriggle in a very intimidating manner. The weapon is heavy and requires great strength to use. It has a living body that will heal any sort of cuts or broken fangs. If the weapon is thrust so that the slender fangs at the tip penetrate the flesh of a foe, the fangs inject a powerful toxin and then break off. The fangs will grow back after a month or two.

This weapon is especially effective against fur-bearing creatures, including humans. If any such being attempts to wield the weapon, they will receive a nasty bite from the hilt.

Lucky Penelope

This fine steel Cutlass originally came to the attention of the bards from the legends of the Clouded Sea during the First Age. The only known owner, a human merchant captain aboard the independent vessel Ewollyn, gained a reputation for remarkable luck. He gained his fortune by chancing upon a number of prime salvage wrecks, passing almost unharmed through a hurricane, and avoided pirate ambushes by using the most dangerous coastal maneuvers imaginable. After many years of use, his blade was finally stolen by a jealous lover, and was rumored to have found its way into the hoard of the sea dragon Luastifor.

Luck Penelope is of such fine craftsmanship that it must have been forged by Dwarven hands, although what use the race would have of such a weapon remains unclear. The haft is carved from pure walrus ivory, while the remarkably light, polished steel blade is engraved with a fine lacy pattern. The weapon remains stainless in water, and has an excellent heft and balance.

The owner of the Lady will lead a charmed life, constantly avoiding disaster through the most remarkable coincidences. Even when wounded, a hardy wielder often suffers only minor nicks and cuts.

Mace of the Last Word

This utterly black weapon has an eerie spectral appearance that is chilling to those who face its swing in melee. When wielded in combat, after images of the mace seem to preceed and follow its every path, providing an entrancing display. Indeed, the wounds inflicted by this weapon do not occur until several moments after impact. This displaced from time effect makes this weapon very difficult to block with a shield or parry with a weapon. Any attempts to disarm the wielder will meet with similar difficulties.

Maul of Quaking

Once the property of the proud Feldspar Stone Giant Clan, this weapon was believed stolen by an anonymous Dwarven thief. The Maul found its way to the Barony of Trevanne, where it was wielded by the court champion for three decades. When warriors from the Feldspar Clan arrived to reclaim their heritage, the court champion disappeared with the Maul, and the furious Giants tore the castle apart stone by stone. The Maul is now believed to be somewhere on the Trey'hoven Peninsula.

The shaft of the Maul is made from a smooth, dark wood, with a leather wrapping about the handle, and a short length of chain attached to the base. The polished steel head of the Maul was forged into two large fists facing in opposite directions. Each time the Maul strikes a target, the weapon emits a deep, cracking sound.

The Maul has two properties that make it especially valuable to the Stone Giants. The weapon will easily shatter almost any rock or crystal, and is very effective for mining or sculpting huge statues. When the Maul is swung so as to strike the ground, the earth begins to shake and roll, throwing those nearby off balance or to the ground. The wielder is immune to the shaking, giving him a significant advantage during a running battle. The duration of the quake depends on how hard the wielder strikes the ground.

Moon Dancer Fork

This mysterious weapon has a crescent-shaped blade attached at a slight angle to a long, black crystalline shaft. Under normal conditions, this will serve as a fine military fork, although the imbalance requires some practice before proper use can be acquired. Under the light of a growing moon, however, the full powers of this device come to fruition. Silvery flashes of light dance along the length of the shaft, and the normally dull grey crescent becomes highly polished.

It is believed that this weapon was created by the moon goddess for the use of here servants in their eternal struggles to maintain the balance between light and darkness. It was first reported at the Temple of the Lunar Horizon during a period of internecine struggles, and may have swung the balance that finally brought peace to the land. Since that time it has mysteriously travelled between the lunar temples, inevitably appearing during a time of crisis to the church.

Nerve Bolts

Created for use by the Regent of Mystrelle during her many campaigns in the Illustrad flayer caverns, these otherwise ordinary looking crossbow bolts deliver a nasty jolt of physical anguish. They are distinguished by a small glassy sphere attached to the point, and white feathers fringed with blue. When fired from a crossbow, the bolts transform into a glowing needle of blue energy that scrambles the nervous system of the target. Each bolt is completely consumed after use.

Night Sword

This mysterious sword was crafted out of pure shadow stuff. When draw, the slender, black blade radiates an area of dimness in a 2" radius about the wielder. During the night time, this extra dimness can make the wielder all but invisible to sight. However, the wielder will also struggle with the dimness, so movement in this enhanced darkness can be especially trying. When wielded during the daylight, the blade is a dull, average implement at best. It draws full power from the night and is a deadly blade when wielded in the natural darkness.

Ochra's Marvelous Missiles

These unusual arrows have a pearly white shaft, rainbow colored feathers, and a silvery knob on the head. When fired at a target, the arrows will produce one of several beneficial effects. Unfortunately the exact effect will only be determined when the arrow strikes the target.

Persnikety

This fine knife has the unusual property of becoming a more effective weapon as the wielder becomes wounded by an attacker. The image of a wolverine is engraved on each side of the polished blade. The blade is single-edged, with a sawtooth pattern along the back side. The handle is polished oak wrapped in a fine steel wire mesh. There is a small hand guard on the sharp side of the knife.

Requite

This magnificent long sword was commissioned for use by Sir Longuin to avenge the assassination of Prince Argenta's young bride, and for this purpose is was most successful. It has a fine, somewhat slender blade with a thrusting point and a lengthy fuller. The grip is wrapped with the bleached hide of a hunting cat, while the cross-guard is double-winged with heavy rings to protect the knuckles. It has a distinctive, flattened bronze pommel that bears the seal of the Prince, and is engraved with the name of the sword.

Requite is magically enchanted to function as a weapon of revenge, and has served this purpose many times. With each bloody slaying, the spirit of the sword has grown stronger and has acquired a will of its own. Now it will only serve in the cause of justice, and is capable of controlling any unworthy individual who attempts to wield the blade. While not exceptional among magical weaponry, this sword has gained an eternal place among the songs of Bards. Any individual who successfully wields this blade will automatically gain a reputation.

Saber of Maxillan

Count Maxillan Arturno had a problem. His first born son, Raphael, was hopelessly inept with the sword. A master of fencing, the count was considered the best swordsman in the land. Yet his son was hopelessly clumsy and seemed incapable of mastering even the most rudementary maneuvers. As the lad was set to enter the academy in a few years, the wealthy Maxillan decided to give him an edge by commissioning a powerful enchanted sword.

The Saber of Maxillan is wonderfully light and balanced, and will not break even when parrying much heavier weapons. The sword is imbued with all of the count's fighting skills, so that it seems all the wielder need do is hold the weapon and it will fight by itself.

Because of the powerful magic bound to the sword, the count's son grew confident in its use and increasingly arrogant. He soon challenged the best swordsman at the academy to a duel. The resulting fight lasted for nearly an hour, but in the end Raphael was bested by a lethal strike to the heart. The weapon has sinced passed to several different owners and its current location is unknown.

The Saber has a polished blade with a razor sharp edge that never gets nicked or grows dull. There are five small runes located in a ring near the hilt but otherwise the blade is unmarked. The haft has wide bar and looping guard. The grip is covered in multiple windings of well worn leather. There is a flat hammer-head pommel for a cunning back blow.

Shark Fang Axe

The entire shaft of this magical weapon is covered in grey shark hide, and is so finely crafted that it appears almost alive. There are several knobs of cartilage that serve as a grip. Protruding at a right angle to tip of the shaft is a fang from a great white shark. The fang ivory sharp, but it is also brittle and has a chance to shatter on impact. Fortunately, a new fang will grow from the tip within a day. The broken tip will remain lodged in the body of the victim, causing intense discomfort and additional bleeding. If the fang has not yet grown back, the weapon can still function as a serviceable club.

Shock Knife

This appears to be a good quality knife with an unusual jagged edge and a polished wooden hilt with a bronze pommel. A mysterious symbol is inlaid in silver on both sides of the wooden grip. The jagged edge makes this blade effective for slowly sawing through tough bone and leather, although its combat benefits are dubious. It is fairly well balanced for throwing and thrusting.

An unexpected benefit of this knife is an electrical charge that is sometimes unleashed when the edge strikes a foe. Unfortunately this magical shock effect is very unpredictable and infrequent. It can be a lifesaver though.

Skull Bludgeon

From whence came this ugly implement remains a mystery, but at present it hangs from the belt of the Beast Lord of Khardane Tower. All who have ridden against this monster have fallen to the Skull weapon, and, as word of his power has spread, dark forces have begun to flock to his banner.

To produce this weapon, the skull of a freshly slain minotaur is stripped bare of flesh on a ant hill, then attached to the root of a burnt Ent. When wielded with malice, the jaw of the skull will chatter uncontrollably, causing great fear in most foes.

The weapon can consistently deliver a wicked blow, and it radiates pain toward any who approach within a few meters. The wielder can attempt to control most types of undead, allowing up to three such attempts per day. Finally, the weapon grants the ability to track by scent, much as would a minotaur.

Spectral Flail

While seemingly an ordinary, dark grey flail, this weapon has a mysterious ghostly afterimage that follows its every movement. Created by the Kraf Ghurvens d'Tarl to avenge the ghastly death of his young niece, this weapon is primarily designed to slay the living dead. The flail was taken up by Sir Halifax of Plinth who used it to great effect during his campaign to clear the crypt towers of Groth. The current whereabouts of this weapon is unknown, although it may remain in the possession of the Halifax family. Several copies of this most useful weapon have since been made.

The wielder gains the ability to strike all forms of undead spirits, and this weapon is especially proficient against such beings. The weapon protects against the draining attack forms of such creatures, and has the ability to sense where they lurk. Finally, the weapon can turn any normal being or object into a spectral form for a period of up to one hour.

Spectral Sword

When examined in direct sunlight, this mysterious falchion becomes transparent and faint, almost disappearing from sight. It grows difficult to grip and the edge becomes somewhat dull. As the lighting grows dimmer, however, the sword seems almost to gain substance from the darkness until it glows with a dull grey light in total darkness. In this state the weapon is highly effective and the edge is razor sharp.

The spectral sword has an unusually wide blade, even for a Falchion. The hilt is knobby and has a simple guard. A faceted crystal is held in the large pommel.

Stalker Blade

This is an unusually fine knife with a curved blade and a slight hook in the back. The hilt is painted with a black laquer. All metal surfaces are dull matte that reflects very little light.

When the blade is bathed in a fire for five minutes it develops a dull red glow that slowly fades over the next half hour. This heat "charge" can be used to deliver a particularly devastating attack that is out of all proportion to the size of this weapon.

The Stalker Blade is especially favored by assassins because of its special attack form, a magical means of camouflage, and its ability to mentally locate the target.

Storm Biter Blade

This magnificent bastard sword appears to be made from a single piece of a pure white material. The blade is unusually wide for such a sword and has a double-edged curved taper. There are also matching circular notches ahead of the hilt with a hooked thorn in the center. The hand guard is exquisitely shaped in the form of a wingless wyrm curled around the blade. The hilt has the texture of a coarse leather covering wrapped around the tang. There is just a trace of a pommel, shaped as the stinger of a wyvern. The entire weapon is perfectly balanced and surprisingly light. The blade never needs sharpening and the weapon can be cleaned to a lustrous white hue by running water over it.

When the weapon is wielded properly in the hands, blue sparks can be seen arcing in the pupils of the owner. The blade develops a bright blue aura and the air nearby develops a strong odor of ozone. The weapon will create electrical disturbances in the immediate vicinity, causing compasses to spin wildly and interfering with the operation of electronics. When the weapon is swung at a foe, the arcing blade appears to pass right through solid objects, delivering a violent bolt of electricity. The blade negates any shields except those specifically designed to ground lightning. If the wielder holds the sword overhead during stormy weather and concentrates, he can direct bolts of storm lightning against nearby targets. Finally the weapon will convert any electrical attacks directed against the wielder into healing energy that will mend his wounds.

Sword of Valorous Runes

This magnificent sword appears to have just been crafted, yet it is old beyond measure and nearly all memory of its creation has been lost. It may well have been forged in ancient Netheril and then carried to Halrauu by the fleeing wizards, as it bears certain style traits distinctive of that long lost nation. Seven tiny runes mark the blade near the hilt and together give a name of "Gibrayl" to the sword, perhaps the original crafter of the sword. The sword was buried in a hero’s tomb near Halagard, but the grave has long since been plundered and the whereabouts of the sword is now unknown.

The blade of this longsword is symmetrical and double-edged, forming a slender leaf shape with a slight curve toward a tapering point and a convex indent near the grip. The elaborate hand guard resembles a pair of unfurling wings of a predatory bird. Small emeralds have been set along the top of the wings, with the gem size increasing toward the hilt. These gems glow faintly when wielded in combat, but otherwise the sword emits no light. The hilt is wrapped in well-worn leather and bound with a series of four bronze bands. The ornate pommel is shaped as two muscular arms that are gripped together in the classic celebration of the victor.

When the sword is first discovered it will have 1d6+1 different ornate runes along the length of the blade, starting from just above the hilt. One of these runes will be enclosed in an open wreath, with a dagger shape centered between the tips pointing toward the tip of the blade. The broad sword initially gives a +1 combat bonus and will inflict 1d6-1K damage against most opponents. This combat bonus is not based on a direct magical effect of the blade itself, but from an intuitive knowledge that is provided to the wielder about attacking creatures of a particular type. The sword is immune to all types of acid and will never rust or tarnish.

Each of the runes on the blade represents one of seventeen different types of creatures. An unadorned rune for a particular creature type provides a +2 combat bonus and will inflict 1¹/₂ of damage when striking a creature of that type. If the rune is enclosed in an open wreath, the combat bonus is +3 and the sword inflicts 2d6-1K of damage. If a dagger shape appears between the arms of the wreath, then the combat bonus is +4 and the sword inflicts 2d6K of damage. These bonuses are enchanted in nature, causing the blade to strike with greater effectiveness.

To determine the types of runes that are found on the sword blade when it is first discovered, roll on the following table the appropriate number of times. If a particular creature type is already selected, then roll again.

3d6 Roll	Creature Type
3	Artificial
4	Alien or Bizarre
5	Insect or Worm
6	Fairy
7	Shapechanger
8	Mound or Amorphous
9	Giant
10	Natural Animal
11	Humanoid
12	Mythical
13	Monster
14	Undead
15	Plant
16	Dragon
17	Elemental
18	Extra-Planar

When fighting a creature of the type matching one of the runes, the wielder gains the appropriate bonus to his attacks and damage rolls. However, once he makes the killing blow against a creature of that type, the initial rune and any additional adornments completely vanish from the blade with a flash of green light. The bonus is now lost until he earns it back. To regain a rune, the wielder must honorably slay a creature of the same general type in single combat. In addition, the point total of the defeated creature must at least equal that of the wielder, or the victory is not sufficiently valorous to earn a rune. The earned rune remains in place for as long as the owner wields the sword.

For example, if the sword is initially found with an unadorned rune of Humanoid type then each time the wielder fights a humanoid creature, he receives a +3 combat bonus and inflicts 2d6-1K of damage. However once he delivers the killing blow against a humanoid using the sword, the rune vanishes and must be earned back. He can only do so by fighting and slaying another humanoid creature that has a point total which at least matches his own. When the rune returns it will thereafter remain on the sword as long as the victor wields this weapon. If another takes up the sword, however, then they must also earn back the runes once they vanish.

Once a rune has been earned, the wielder can also gain the wreath and dagger embellishments by repeating the task against other creatures in the same category with the requisite challenge ratings. This earning of the rune, wreath, and dagger awards on the sword continues until the wielder has earned all seventeen fully adorned awards. The sword is not intelligent, but it is fully capable of sensing when a creature has been fought and slain honorably in single combat. The target must be properly armed, unhindered, and aware of its attacker. Any variation from this requirement and the embellishment will not appear.

Sylvan Sword of Strife

This magnificent blade was crafted by the High Elven Mage Elyrienne for the defence of the Sacred Grove of Bhe'Iriel. It was intended for a lone heroic warrior to quickly master the combat techniques of a foe so that he could defend against a large number of enemies. Unfortunately, the grove was eventually overrun by the red fang horde and the sword was lost to evil.

Each time the sword is used to slay a foe, it gains knowledge about how to kill others of the same race. Hence, if a group of similar enemy attack the wielder, the sword will grow increasingly deadly. Unfortunately, this knowledge is immediately lost should the sword be used in combat by a new owner. The long, slender blade is triangular in shape, with a slightly rounded thrusting tip. Several oval holes form a row along the center of the blade, making the sword extremely balanced and easy to maneuver. The grip is tightly wrapped in black snake hide.

Tripart Spear

Created by the Sea Elves during the Darklamp Saurian incursions, this fine weapon has the appearance of a steel-shafted spear with a large, triple-bladed head. When activated by grasping the shark-skin covered grip, however, the head splits into three slightly curved blades. When two or more of these blades strike the same foe, a powerful jolt of electricity is delivered between the edges, stunning most victims.

This weapon can be hurled like a trident, but it loses the ability to deliver a jolt when it leaves the grasp of the wielder. The Tripart Spear will never rust nor corrode in sea water, and will always retain a dull sheen in all conditions.

Valiant Defender Blade

The origins of this weapon is lost to history, but judging by the elegant guard, undersized hilt, and finely engraved runes along the slender blade, this is sword is undoubtedly of ancient elven design.

The first mention of the weapon comes from the bone tablet archives of the High Arcus Mission in the southern rise. After several centuries of obscurity, the sword came to be employed by Sir Landrey, a questing knight who was accepted into the Order of Our Lady at the Abbey of Sacred Healing. During the Second Talon incursion, Landrey heroically led each of the desperate stands against the hordes of invading stalker barbarians. Fatally wounded in the final battle, he bequeathed the sword to the Abbey, where it has served ever since.

Sleek and balanced, this superb weapon is ideal for parrying an attack. Yet it has the strength and striking ability of a much heavier weapon. The blade has the uncanny ability to block attacks, moving to counter strokes that would have been missed by many a lesser weapon. Valiant Defender can block incoming missiles or other projectiles, and will ward the owner against surprise attacks and knock downs. Even successful attacks against the wielder are often deflected so as to inflict less damage.

Venial Bow

This giant bow is made from bones knitted together by a special glue extracted from boiled animal remains. The draw string is cut from the intestines of a Giant Rat, the grip is wrapped in rodent hide, and the arrow notch employs the creature's mounted skull.

In addition to being a powerful weapon, the bow gives the wielder the ability to fire an arrow around a corner, allowing him to snipe at a target from a secure hiding place. When the powers of the bow are being employed, the eye sockets of the skull glow a sinister orange.

Vorpal Blade

The razor sharp blade on this fine weapon is shaped much like a broad sword, with a slight taper from hilt to tip and a shallow thrusting point. The sword has a fine chromium finish, giving it a beautiful polish that will never rust or wear. The hand guard consists of a slightly curved bronze plate between the blade and the hilt. The grip is a soft leather wrap that is tough and resists slipping. A thick metal ring is attached to the end, capable of mounting a gem or attaching a trophy. The weapon is especially effective when used to slice off the head or other appendages.

Ware Blade

This fine, polished weapon is a bastard sword with a slightly tapered blade and double guards. On each face a row of barely visible runes runs the length of the central groove. Anybody examining the runes closely will find that they shift and twist in a discomforting fashion, making them

1d6 Roll Type of Lycanthrope 1 Werebear 2 Wereboar 3 Wererat 4 Weretiger 5-6 Werewolf

impossible to read. The hilt is wrapped in soft, short-haired fur, and the pommel is a round knob. The type of fur can be from several types of creatures, and from time to time will randomly change to a different breed.

As this cursed weapon slays victims, the wielder is unknowingly transformed into a were creature. During this process, the character will find he is able to use more and more of the weapons abilities. However, most of he extra abilities vanish immediately once the wielder has become a full-fledged lycanthrope, as they are no longer required.

There are no written records about how this sword was formed. But it is rumored to have been in existance since the dawn of human civilization and may have been the gift of a mad god.

Winged Javelin

This fine missile has been specially constructed to hunt large flying creatures. After striking the airborne target, the weapon tip paralyzes the wing muscles, forcing the creature to the ground where it can be finished off by more traditional means. These weapons are traditionally carried in waterproof hunting pouches of four javelins.

Woodland Stave

Grown from the seed of a Yew that was struck by lightning on mid-winter's day, this stout length of wood is capped at each end by a long, polished brass knob. All the bark has been stripped, and the wood darkened and polished by the application of a special berry mixture. The two grips are made from soft buckskin trimmed in the center with white rabbit fur.

In addition to serving as a fine quarterstaff, this weapon has several magical powers that are especially useful in a wooded region. The wielder can command an ordinary tree to grab and hold any opponent within reach. His ability to move stealthily through a wooded area is greatly improved, and all his senses are heightened. Finally, he gains the ability to communicate with any native woodland creatures.

The Stave must be magically endowed by a member of the sylvan races while standing inside a fairy circle at the heart of an old forest. A carrier of the Woodland Stave is honored by the inhabitants of the sylvan lands, and it is a sign of great favor to receive this weapon as a gift.

Xynthal, The Demon Slayer

This beautiful silver falchion has an ornate basket hilt and a cherubic image along the blade. The hilt is made from ivory and the large pommel is shaped as a circle with mysterious runes. The wielder of this weapon is tasked with seeking out and destroying all denizens of the demonic planes. For this purpose the blade is specially blessed with several qualities that make it especially effective against such unholy hosts.

When wielded against demons, the blade is wreathed in pure white flames that will inflict deep, searing wounds. The sword will also enable the wielder to endure the harsh conditions on the planes of hell and provides some protection against potent demonic magic. Finally, the blade is ever on guard against demons and will warn the wielder whenever such are nearby.

This named blade is believed to have been originally granted to the paladin Darral Alanguin by the Temple of the Divine Mission for a mission to save the land from a terrible peril. He soon vanished amid a landscape of devastation and the blade was not seen again for several centuries. It was known to be carried into battle during the clearing of Hellsgate Peak by the Enlightened Brotherhood. Most recently the sword has been wielded to good effect by the reknowned knight Reginald of Upsway.

Zhorikxyl the Death Bringer

This inimical, two-handed sword was created for a champion of evil to serve a dark god. The sword is most effective when wielded by a character with a dark and malicious nature. Indeed, most so-called "good" characters are barely able to pick the weapon up by its hilt. Many of the powers of this unholy blade are diminished when it is carried on to holy ground, or used against the undead or holy men.

The blade is a long, dull-grey piece of metal on which a disturbing pattern shimmers when viewed from the corner of the eye. The two handed hilt is wrapped in a black leathery material and the round pommel holds a large, faintly glowing ruby.

When Zhorikxyl is drawn from its black scabbard the area around the sword immediately turns gloomy and foreboding, and the wielder becomes a most intimidating presence. The sword seems almost to lunge towards a foe in anticipation of drawing blood. When a foe is struck by the blade, the weapon inflicts a deadly life-draining wound which gravely weakens the victim for several minutes.

After using this weapon for a short time, the owner is constantly haunted by unpleasant dreams about many centuries of evil deeds commited in the name of a dark god. These dreams fade upon waking, but the memories are brought to the surface whenever the weapon is grasped.