Psionic Artifacts of Athas

Credlls
DcsIgn: Kevin Melka & Bruce Nesmith

EdItIng: Bill Olmesdahl
Bascd nn Cnnccpts by: Troy Denning & Timothy B. Brown
Cnvcr Art: Maren
IntcrInr Art: Jesus Redondo
CrcatIvc DIrcctnr: Harold Johnson
Art DIrcctnr: Bob Galica
Prcprcss CnnrdInatnr: Dave Conant
Typngraphy: Tracey L. Isler
GraphIc DcsIgn: Don Danowski
Thanks tn: Bill Slavicsek for his help with the artifacts of Athas.
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I
Chapter One: Artifacts of Athas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
The Belt of Kings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
The Dark Lens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Heart of the Drake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
The Heartwood Spear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Ktandeos Cane . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
The Last Tree . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Orbs of Kalid-Ma . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
The Planar Gate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
The Lesson of Gulem the Gray . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Whats Contained Within . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Notes on Artifacts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Existing Artifacts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
The Psionatrix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
The Scorcher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
The Scourge of Rkard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Artifact Random Powers Charts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Chapter Two: Life-Shaped Items . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Defining the Life-Shaped . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
The State of Life Shaped Objects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Adding the Life Shaped to Your Campaign . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Magic Effects on Life Shaped Items . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
The Li fe Shaped: Products, Ti ssues, and Creatures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Chapter Three: Rhul-tal Life Shaped Artifacts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
The Centennial Brain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
The Corundrum Wormskin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
The Green Rhul . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
The Jade Marquess . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
The Ma-kat Mannequin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
The Arm of Radu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
Spirit Wombs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
The Tongue of Glib the Mad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Chapter Four: DARK SUN Magical Items . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Fruits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Oils . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Scrolls. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Rings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
Rods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
Staves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Wands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Miscellaneous Magic: Jewels, Jewelry, Phylacteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Miscellaneous Magic: Candles, Dusts, Ointments, Incense, and Stones . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Miscellaneous Magic: The Weird Stuff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ., . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
Psionic Items . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
Unique Psionic Items . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
New Psionics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Appendices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
Appendix I: Other Life Shaped Items . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
Appendix II DARK SUN Magical Item Tables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
2
The Lesson of Culem lhe Cray
Gul em stood i n the empty cl assroom, gl anci ng out a nearby wi ndow whi l e wai ti ng
for the newest group of initiates to arrive at the Nexusthe hidden academy of the
Way located deep within the mountain range northeast of Kurn. The powerful dwar-
ven psionicist of the Order wondered how many of this group would perish before
graduating from the Nexus. Though each initiate possessed the potential to become
as powerful as he, many would fail to handle the pressure and commitment the
Order demanded of its members. Those who did not pass the rigors of Gulems trials
wouldnt leave the Nexus alive, since none but a graduate could know the exact
location of the isolated academy. A member of last years class led the nine initiates
to their chairs, Gulem turned his attention to this newest group of students.
Good morning apprentices, said the dwarf, I am Master Gulem. For the next
year I will instruct you in aspects of psionic power you have never imagined. Before
you can fix you must first learn how to walk. In this first year we shall explore the
aspects of psionically empowered magic artifacts, magical items, and . . .
A student in the front of the class, a lanky elf dressed much finer than the rest of
the initiates interrupted protesting loudly, What?! I came here to learn how to
become a powerful psi oni ci st, not study i nsi gni fi cant magi cal i tems created by l owl y
defilers! I wish to be moved up to the next cla . . .<urk> The bold students eyes
rolled back in his head, and his body slumped unceremoniously to the floor. Several
students swallowed hard and turned their eyes back to Master Gulem.
As I stated, continued Gulem, before a psionicist can learn the extent of his
powers, he must study other aspects of the Way if he is to become a member of the
Order. Ancient artifacts created eons ago possess psionic power which even the most
powerful members of the Order cannot duplicate. The study of these are essential to
unlocking the keys to the power. Psionic magical items are a tool created by and used
by a psionicist in conjunction with the Way. The third topic of this class will be the
newly discovered living items created by the halflings of the Blue Age.
The first we shall explore are the known artifacts of Athas. Several of these
devices were created by Rajaat, creator of the sorcerer-kings and . . . Gulems les-
son woul d l ast for the remai nder of the day, and wel l i nto the eveni ng-al l the whi l e
the body of the elf child would lie on the floor, as a reminder to the students not to
take their masters teachings lightly, When the initiates returned the next day, the elfs
body was gone and their lessons on the artifacts of Athas continued.
3
Vhal`s Conlalned Vllhln
Psionic Artifacts of Athas covers three subjects-powerful artifacts created thousands
of years ago, new psionic and magical items unique to the DARK SUN campaign, and
the rediscovered Life-shaped items created by halfling thousands of years ago.
Chapter One deal s wi th the known arti facts of Athas, i ncl udi ng many powerful
items created by the insane pyreen Rajaat thousands of years ago. Some of these
items were used by his students, the 15 champions of the Cleansing Wars, who
woul d eventual l y become the sorcerer-ki ngs of Athas. Many of the wel l known arti -
facts of the Prism Pentad novel series are detailed in this chapter, allowing you to
use them in your own campaign, as well as several new artifacts to introduce to your
players.
Chapter Two details the life-shaped. Youll learn where they come from, what they
l ook l i ke, and more i mportantl y what they do.
Chapter Three details new psionic and magical items found on Athas, including
random magic item determination charts specifically for DARK SUN. These charts
i ncl ude the new i tems, and others from the DUNGEON MASTER Gui dei ncl udi ng the
elimination of items which do not exist in this world (such as a potion of dragon
control ).
Noles on Arllfacls
Many of the artifacts presented in this product are extremely powerful. items such as
the Dark Lens or the Psionatrix have the potential to severely unbalance campaign.
In addition, several of the artifacts can have adverse effects on player characters with
prolonged use. Distribution of powerful artifacts in a DARK SUN campaign should be
limited to no more than one or two at any one time. Artifacts should be extremely
difficult to find, and are often safeguarded by deadly wardens who may themselves
have possession of the device-and access to its power.
Each artifact entry has a physical description of the device, its history, campaign
uses, and a list of powers. An artifacts powers are listed as constant powers, invoked
powers, and additional suggested and random powers. Constant powers are abilities
a character gains just from possessing the artifact. lnvoked powers are special abili-
ties unique to the artifact that can be preformed a certain number of times per day,
week, or month. Suggested and random powers are additional abilities that can be
invoked by the artifact. The suggested powers are abilities most likely to be produced
by a specific artifact. If a DM does not wish to use the suggested powers, a number
of random abilities can be generated from the Artifact Powers Charts.
Exlsllng Arllfacls
This product does not cover four existing artifacts detailed in the Book of Artifacts.
The Obsidian Man of Urik, the Silencer of Bodach, the Rod of Teeth, and the
Psychometron of Nerad have been purposely left out of this product to give more
room to new artifacts. Of the four, only the Silencer of Bodach is mentioned below.
This is because of its relationship to the Scourge of Rkard and the Scorcher, which
were also created by the evil pyreen Rajaat. Of these three swords only the Silencer
of Bodach is capable of harming Hamanu of Urik, as was Rajaats design. The other
three arti facts remai n unchanged.
4
Lyanius moved slowly through the dimly lit underground passages of Kemalok, a
flickering torch held firmly in his ancient hand. In truth he didnt need the torch, as
he had walked these passages countless times in the two hundred years since finding
the ancient city of the dwarves. However, his eyesight had begun to fail in the past
few years, and the torch helped him find his way on this night. The light of the fiery
torch flickered along the white marble walls as Lyanius passed through the streets of
the lost city The ancient dwarf was glad he could see his ancestral home one last
time before the coming of Borys of Ebe. Squinting in the torch light Lyanius soon
found himself before the Tower of Buryn, home to dwarven kings for three thousand
years, from before the Cleansing Wars. Standing before the tower was a figure in
black plate mail trimmed in silver and gold, a rare sight on the world of Athas. Atop
his head sat a jewel-studded crown of gleaming white metal, marking him as a king
of the dwarved race.
You have been waiting for me great Rkard? asked Lyanius. In reply the figure
nodded his head yes in a slow, fluid motion. Ive seen my death in a dream this
night great king. continued the aged dwarf, a death at the hands of Borys of Ebe. I
come to you for advice ancient king . . . how should I prepare for the coming of
your anci ent enemy?
In reply the ancient king turned and entered the Tower of Buryn, Lyanius behind
him. Through the forgotten tombs of a hundred dwarved kings they walked, coming
to the resting place of Rkard himself On the wall behind the vacant slab hung a
sword and belt. The arm of the fallen king slowly raised to point toward the items,
and Rkards glowing yellow eyes turned back to the dwarven elder in answer to his
question. It was then Lyanius knew what was to be done.
5
The 8ell of Klngs
The Belt of Kings is a dwarven girdle constructed of hardened leather inlaid with
gold, silver, and precious gems. The belts buckle is engraved with the skull of a
fierce half-man in the center of a field of red flames. The Belt of Kings will fit any
dwarf, mul, human, or elf. Half-giants are too big and most halflings too small to
wear the artifact as the item does not magically adjust to fit the wearer.
Hlslory
The Belt of Kings is an ancient symbol of the dwarven people, a sign of their once
great heritage before the Cleansing Wars devastated their race. Originally called the
Belt of Rank after the first dwarf to wear the item, this ancient artifact was created by
dwarven clerics 4,000 years ago to be worn by the leader of the dwarven armies
generals of great charisma and skill who were sworn to protect the dwarven race.
The artifact was passed from general to general over the centuries, finally being given
to the dwarven king Rkard to use in defense of his race in the face of the Cleansing Wars.
Rkard was killed in battle by Borys of Ebe, and the Belt of Kings was buried with him.
Recently, this ancient artifact was given to Rikus of Tyr to assist him in retrieving the
stolen Book of Kemalok Kings and defeating an approaching army from Urik. Though the
army was overcome, Rikus was unable to reclaim the book. The mul returned the Belt
of Kings to the dwarves of Kled, where it remains hidden to this day.
Campalgn Use
Though it may be common knowledge in some circles that the Belt of Kings can
be found in the dwarven village of Kled, getting it from its guardian spirits (other
wearers of the belt) is another matter. A DM should present an adventuring
party with the Belt of Kings only in defense of the dwarves of Athas. The belt
could also have been the victim of a theft, as was the Book of Kemalok
Kings, and involved characters could be charged with its retrieval.
Povers
Constant PowersAny dwarf donning the Belt of Kings has an effective
Charisma of 18 to all dwarves. Non-dwarves wearing the belt gain an addi-
onal +4 to all reactions with dwarves. Should the Belt of Kings be pilfered
nd summari l y worn, al l dwarves vi ewi ng the arti fact wi l l know i t was
tolen and do whatGver they can to retrieve it.
All non-magical missiles fired at the wearer of the Belt of Kings unerring-
ly strike the artifacts buckle, inflicting no damage to the wearer. The belt
also allows the wearer to move normally if attacked by web, hold, or slow
spells as a ring of free action.
Wearing the artifact greatly enhances the battle savvy of the character.
Warriors wearing the belt fight as if they were four levels higher, and non-
warrior classes fight as if they were warriors of an equal level. The belt wear-
er is treated as if proficient with any weapon he or she chooses to fight with.
The possessor of the Belt of Kings has the accumulated experience and
knowl edge of more than 40 centuri es of dwarven ki ngs to draw upon.
Curse-Should the possessor of the Belt of Kings ever unjustly take the life
of a dwarf, the artifact will constrict to a diameter of four incheseffectively
crushing the wearer to death. If the guilty party somehow survives or is
returned to life, the subsequent possessor of the Belt of Kings will suffer from
artifact possession and think of nothing but killing the previous owner. This
cycl e wi l l conti nue unti l the dwarven ki l l er i s dead.
Suggesled Means of Deslrucllon
Submerge the belt in the blood of a hundred murdered dwarves.
6
The Dark Lens
The Dark Lens is a polished obsidian egg-shaped orb about the size of a small kank.
The surface of the Dark Lens is flawless, and its blackness is absolute, darker than the
deepest obsidian mines of Athas. Through its glassy skin can be seen an occasional
streak of scarlet, often vanishing one instant and reappearing again in a different loca-
tion. Even beneath the most intense light, the surface of the Dark Lens appears as
nothing but inviolable gloom. The lens radiates intense heat upon its surface, a direct
result of its incredible power. The Dark Lens is heavy, weighing about 170 pounds.
Hl slory
The Dark Lens is an ancient artifact thought to have been created by Rajaat as the Time
of Magic was coming to an end. The evil sorcerer fashioned the Dark Lens as a focus
for his power, amplifying his magic and psionic energies to unheard of levels. By using
the Dark Lens Rajaat created other powerful artifactssuch as Silencer, Scorcher, and
Scourge. Rajaat used the Dark Lens to give his 15 Champions their incredible powers.
As the Cleansing Wars were ending and the champions discovered the true nature
of their masters schemes, the disciples of Rajaat took the Dark Lens and used its
power to imprison their master in a place called the Hollow. Shortly after Rajaat was
entombed, the Dark Lens was stolen by two dwarves named Jororsh and Saram.
These dwarves were self-proclaimed protectors of Athas, taking the Dark Lens from
the Pristine Tower to the Estuary of the Forked Tongue and secluding it on the isle of
Mytilene. There they created a safeguard for the Dark Lens in the form of a crystal
pit, which proved deadly to any who attempted to retrieve the artifact. Years later
Jororsh and Saram perished while defending the Dark Lens from evil giants. Soon
after, they arose as banshee, and used their new powers to guard the Dark Lens from
the eyes of the Dragon and the rest of Rajaats champions.
Decades later, two clans of giants settled on Mytilene. Instead of driving them
from the island, the spirits of the two dwarves appeared before the creatures and
proclaimed the Dark Lens a powerful artifact to be revered and worshiped. The dull-
witted giants believed the words of the banshees, and became guardians of what
they referred to as the Oracle. It was here the Dark Lens remained until being
recovered by Tithian of Tyr and Agis of Asticles.
With the Dark Lens in his possession, Tithian asked Borys, then later Rajaat, to use
the artifact to transform him into a sorcerer-king. Following the final battle which
saw Rajaat returned to his prison and the death of the Dragon as well as several sor-
cerer-kings, Sadira of Tyr cast the Dark Lens into the lava of the Ring of Fire. The sor-
ceress placed wards around the Ring of Fire to alert her to anyone attempting to free
Rajaat or retrieve the Dark Lens.
Campalgn Use
The Dark Lens is an item of great power, one a DM may not wish to have in their
campaign. With the power of the Dark Lens a psionicist or psionicist/wizard would
have their power increased one hundred-fold, unbalancing a campaign. On the
other hand, it may be that a DM could present a group of adventurers with a terrible
problem, one whose only solution would be in retrieving the Dark Lens from its fie
prison. The need for an item as powerful as the Dark Lens could be fighting the
forces of a sorcerer-king, the return of Rajaat, or the onset of some new evil force on
Athas. Regardless, an item of such power as the Dark Lens should not fall into the
hands of someone (like Tithian) who would use it for their own selfish purposes.
Povers
Using the Dark Lens is a dangerous thing, possibly causing physical as well as mental
damage to a character. This powerful artifact is only usable by single- or multi-classed
psionicists. Psionicist/defilers or psionicist/preservers gain the most benefits from using
the device. To invoke the powers of the Dark Lens, a character must come into contact
7
with the artifact (typically with their hands) and attempt to access its power through
the use of the psionic proficiency contact.
The power level of the lens is extreme, and the attempt to link with the device in
this manner is made with a -4 penalty. A character can attempt contact with the lens
once per round. The initial round the character touches the Dark Lens, and for every
round after they fail to make contact, the intense heat that radiates from the artifact
does 1d10 points of damage to whatever is touching it. Once contact is achieved,
the user becomes immune to this effect, and can access tremendous powers.
To use any of the powers of the artifact, a character must be in physical contact with
the lens. The Dark Lens contains 500 PSPs which can be used to activate its psionic pow-
ers. These points are regained every 24 hours after the first use. Should the lens psionic
points become exhausted, the possessor can use his or her own PSPs to operate the
device. All powers used in conjunction with the Dark Lens are at 20th level of effect.
Constant PowersThe Dark Lens acts as a rod of absorption upon command, con-
verting magical energy directly into PSPs, five points per level of the spell cast. The
user of the lens must declare this intent after the spell is cast, and it requires com-
pl ete concentrati on to preform.
The lens also allows the possessor access at will to any psionic science or devo-
tion that they have learned, witnessed, or intently studied. A minimal amount study
is needed to duplicate most psionic powers with the Dark Lens. Effects such as
telekinesis and disintegrate are easily imitated by observation, but powers like ESP or
mindwipe may require extensive research. The time of research is up to the Dungeon
Master, but a mi ni mum of one game month per psi oni c devoti on and three months
per science is suggested.
The Dark Lens is also a focus for magical power. Any wizard spell cast with the
aid of the lens is greatly enhanced. The area of effect, duration, range, damage or
other effects produced by the spell are augmented by a factor of 10. Saving throws
made against these augmented spells suffer a -3 penalty.
Invoked PowersWith the Dark Lens, a psionicist can create temporary physical con-
structs of creatures they envision. The creation can be any beast or humanoid previously
encountered by the user, or a new creature drawn from the wielders dark imagination.
The construct cannot have more hit dice than the possessor. These mental fabrications are
physical only, having no spell-like or psionic power possessed by the actual creature (a
defiler construct would not be able to cast spells, an undead creature would have no spe-
cial abilities, etc.) THAC0, and all other physical abilities remain the same. This power can
be used up to three times per day, and the creation has physical form for up to one hour.
The power of the Dark Lens can also alter the shape of the user. Four times per day
the possessor of this artifact can alter his form as per a polymorph self spell. This spell
lasts until the user wishes it to end or until the effect is dispelled. Should contact with
the Dark Lens be severed, the user returns to their original form immediately.
Suggested PowersThe Dark Lens also confers the following powers to the user:
while traveling upon the Silt Sea possessor will never be attacked by monsters, user
will never be attacked by undead, and the owner is under the effects of a mind
blank spell at 20th level of ability, whenever in contact with the device.
Random PowersThese powers are randomly generated instead of the suggested
powers above: one ability from Table 13: Fate and Fortune, one ability from Table
15: Immunities, and one ability from Table 25: Protections.
CurseThe incredible power of the Dark Lens is intoxicating to anyone using the
device. There is a 1% cumulative chance per use of the artifact that the possessor
wi l l devel op a form of megal omani a, convi nced that the power of the l ens makes
them i nvi nci bl e. Characters wi th thi s i nsani ty wi l l do whatever they can to keep
from being separated from the artifact. Eventually, the character becomes dependent
upon the device, and it is the DMs choice as to whether or not the character takes a
path toward world domination similar to that of Tithian of Tyr.
Suggesled Means of Deslrucll on
Unknown. The Dark Lens is tied so closely with the fate of Athas and the sorcerer-
kings that it may not be possible to destroy the item until either the sorcerer-kings
achieve a final victory, or are cast from the face of Athas.
8
Hearl of lhe Drake
There are four artifacts with the name Heart of the Drake, one from each of the
great beasts theyre named for. Each of the hearts is exactly thatthe petrified
heart of one of the most savage creatures of the Tablelands. The heart of the fire
drake is a fiery crimson, the earth drakes heart a deep ginger, the water heart a
gl ari ng aquamari ne, and the ai r drake a bri ght i vory. The hearts are obl ong i n
shape, sl i ghtl y smal l er than a human head, and wei gh nearl y 20 pounds.
Hl slory
Each Heart of the Drake was created 1,000 years ago by a mighty druid named
Tehnik, to be used against the sorcerer-kings of Athas. Tehnik spent nearly two
decades in his pursuit of the four great drakes, using magic and cunning to bring
each of them to a quick death. Tehnik believed that the heart contained the beasts
driving force, and thus was the most powerful portion. Tehniks overall purpose in
retrieving the organs was to harness the inherent elemental power contained within.
Tehnik slaved over his obsession until late in his life, gathering long-lost items
and el emental magi c from across the Tabl el ands to compl ete hi s experi ment. After
another three decades, and at the age of 78, Tehnik had everything he needed to
empower each Heart of t he Drake. As the i tems were charged wi th Tehni k s magi c,
the elderly druid collapsed from the strain of his years and died. The hearts were
whol e and no one, not even Tehni k, woul d know i t. No one woul d know of
Tehniks struggle, the years spent in their creation, nor his quest to rid Athas of the
sorcerer-kings.
The Heart s of t he Drake went undi scovered for centuri es, unti l a wanderi ng el f
named Gri l stumbl ed upon the cave that was the drui d s home. The el f pi l fered
everythi ng of val ue he coul d fi nd, i ncl udi ng the Heart s of t he Drake. Gri l
bel i eved them to be carvi ngs of some sort, and brought them to Uri k to sel l i n the
marketpl ace. From there the arti facts passed from col l ector to col l ector, and were
summari l y sol d to di fferent customers by a Tyri an trader. A few years ago, the
heart of the fi re drake fel l i nto the hands of a femal e dwarven fi re cl eri c named
Magnol i na, who qui ckl y di scover ed i t s power . Magnol i na l ear ned of t he ot her
hearts and quested for them, but i n the end they el uded her grasp. The dwarf was
marked for death by those who wi shed the fi re heart for themsel ves, and di sap-
peared from the face of Athas. Her l ocati on, as wel l as the whereabouts of the
hearts, is a mystery.
Campalgn Use
Each Heart of t he Drake possesses consi derabl e power, but i ndi vi dual l y they aren t
l i kel y to be mi ghty enough to serve thei r ori gi nal functi onthe destructi on of a
sorcerer-ki ng. Addi ti onal l y, the curses i nfl i cted by the arti facts are consi derabl e,
and a character may thi nk twi ce before usi ng a Heart of t he Drake i f they know
the price that must be paid as a result of power. Individually, a Heart of the Drake
coul d be used to save a communi ty from the ravages of a rampagi ng drake, or to
retri eve somethi ng from an area where one l i ves.
Povers
Each Heart of the Drake possesses powers of their respective elements. To activate
the artifacts, the possessor must anoint the item each day with a portion of its ele-
ment i n a smal l ceremony. The fi re heart must be hel d compl etel y wi thi n a burni ng
fl ame, the earth heart requi res di rt (not sand) be spri nkl ed upon i t, the water heart
needs to absorb a half gallon of water, and the air heart must be held aloft, in a
breeze.
9
Alr Drake Hearl
Constant Powers-The possessor of this Heart of the Drake is able to fly (as per the
spell at 20th level of effect) at will. The heart need not be in the users hand for
thi s power to be acti vated, but must be somewhere on thei r person. The
rate of flight is 18, with a maneuverability rating of B. The user of this
item also gains a +4 bonus to all saving throws against spells from the
Sphere of Air, and all damage die rolls of 1 or 2 are ignored. Anyone
hol di ng thi s Heart of t he Drake i s i mmune to al l ai r-based attacks
caused by an air drake (not physical claw or bite attacks).
In addition, the possessor of this heart is considered invisible to
al l ai r drakes whi l e hol di ng the heart before them, unl ess attack-
i ng or otherwi se causi ng the creature harm. Ai r drakes are
i mmune to al l other effects produced by thi s arti fact.
I nvoked Powers Upon command the possessor of thi s heart
may go without breathing for up to 12 hours a day. This protects
the user from poi sonous gases or the need to breath underwater
or beneath si l t.
The possessor of the air heart can also, once per week, remove
all air in a 10 yard radius around one creature for up to one turn.
This loss of air effectively creates a vacuum, and the effected creature
wi l l peri sh i n 1d4 rounds. Vi cti ms of thi s attack can avoi d death by wear-
i ng a neckl ace of adaptati on, or by havi ng a di spel magi c cast by a compani on
(agai nst 20th l evel magi c). Casti ng spel l s wi th verbal components or usi ng i tems
requi ri ng command words i s i mpossi bl e whi l e i n the vacuum, though psi oni c
power s wor k nor mal l y.
Suggested Powers This Heart of the Drake has the following powers, all at 20th
l evel of abi l i ty: conj ure l esser ai r el emental (1/week), gust of wi nd (5/day), and
cl oudki l l ( 1/ day) .
Random Powers These powers are to be used instead of the suggested power
above: three abilities from Table 8: Elemental Air.
Curse The possessor of this Heart of the Drake has a 1% cumulative chance
each ti me an i nvoked power i s used to suffer extreme pai n when they come i nto
contact wi th anythi ng that touches the ground. The user of thi s heart wi l l constant-
l y i nvoke i ts fl yi ng abi l i ty to avoi d touchi ng the ground. Contact wi th the earth
causes terri bl e pai n, i nfl i cti ng 1d10 poi nts of damage per round and preventi ng
spel l casti ng, sl eepi ng, or other si mpl e acti ons. Whi l e under thi s curse the user can
fly while asleep, but never for more than four hours at a time. If this curse is inap-
propri ate for your campaign; roll twice on Table 5: Curses.
Earlh Drake Hearl
Constant Powers The possessor of this Heart of the Drake is able to
prevent the casting of wizard spells in a 100 yard radius area. The
possessor must concentrate on the artifact and state that theyre
preventing the use of spells. Any mage in the area is then unable
to draw the necessary l i fe energy from the earth to enact thei r
spell. The spell is then lost from the casters memory and must be
re-l earned.
The user of the earth heart also gains +4 versus all spells from
the Sphere of Earth, and damage die rolls of 1 or 2 are ignored.
Anyone hol di ng thi s Heart of t he Drake i s i mmune to al l earth-
based attacks caused by an earth drake (not physi cal cl aw or bi te
attacks). In addition, the possessor of this heart is considered invisi-
bl e to al l earth drakes whi l e hol di ng the heart before them, unl ess
attacki ng or otherwi se causi ng the creature harm. Earth drakes are
immune to all other effects produced by this artifact. The possessor of this
heart i s al so abl e to breath normal l y whi l e buri ed beneath the earth or whi l e
i mmersed i n si l t.
I0
Invoked Powers Once per week the possessor of this Heart of the Drake can
gate in solid matter from the Elemental Plane of Earth. The material encompasses a
50 cubi c-foot area surroundi ng the possessor. Anyone caught i nsi de the area must
make a successful savi ng throw versus petri fi cati on to be thrown cl ear of the
effect. A failed save means the victim is trapped under the matter, and suffers 1d12
poi nts of damage per turn and wi l l eventual l y be crushed to death unl ess someone
frees them. Twice per day the possessor of the earth heart can also meld into stone
as per the 3rd level priest spell of the same name.
l evel of abi l i ty: ani mate rock (1/day), conj ure l esser earth el emental (1/week),
transmute rock to mud (1/day).
above: three abilities from Table 11: Elemental Earth.
each ti me an i nvoked power i s used to suffer from extreme pai n i f they shoul d
l oose contact wi th the earth. Loosi ng contact wi th the earth i nfl i cts 1d10 poi nts of
damage per round and prevents spel l casti ng, sl eepi ng, or even other si mpl e
actions. Things such as climbing a tree or being lifted off the ground by a comrade
i nvokes thi s curse. If thi s curse i s i nappropri ate for your campai gn, rol l twi ce on
Table 5: Curses.
Flre Drake Hearl
Constant Powers This Heart of the Drake is always warm, radiating a tem-
perature of 75F. The possessor of this Heart of the Drake is immune to
fire as a ring of fire resistance as long as the artifact is somewhere on
their person. The user also gains +4 to all other saving throws
against spells from the Sphere of Fire, and damage die rolls of 1 or
2 are i gnored. Anyone hol di ng thi s Heart of t he Drake i s i mmune
to all fire-based attacks caused by a fire drake (not physical claw
or bite attacks). The user is immune to poisonous gases and other
harmful effects caused by bei ng i n cl ose proxi mi ty to a vol cano.
The possessor of this heart is considered to be invisible to all
fi re drakes whi l e hol di ng the heart before them, unl ess attacki ng or
otherwi se causi ng the creature harm. Fi re drakes are i mmune to al l
other effects produced by this artifact. The possessor of the fire heart
can create non-magical fires at will, up to the size of a campfire.
Invoked Powers Once per day the possessor of this Heart of the Drake
can gate in raw flame from the Elemental Plane of Fire as per a 7th level fire
cleric. If the possessor of this heart is already a fire cleric, then the effects of
thi s power (durati on, damage, area of effect) are doubl ed.
Additionally, once per month the possessor of this heart can cause a single
humanoi d no l arger than a hal f-gi ant to spontaneousl y burst i nto fl ames. The vi c-
ti m of thi s attack can do nothi ng to douse the fi re, and i t wi l l eventual l y consume
them l eavi ng nothi ng but ashes (1d10 damage per round unti l dead). Thi s attack
can only be stopped by the possessor of the fire heart, a dispel magic (against 20th
level magic), or by a water-based spell from the water heart. Victims of this attack
cannot be rai sed from the dead wi th anythi ng short of a wi sh spel l .
l evel of abi l i ty: del ayed bl ast fi rebal l (1/day), fi re shi el d (1/day), l i ght (3/day).
Random Powers-These powers are to be used i nstead of the suggested power
above: three abilities from Table 9: Elemental Fire.
each ti me an i nvoked power i s used to l ose one poi nt of Intel l i gence. Once the
possessors Intelligence is 6 or less, they revert to a more primal instinct (very simi-
l ar to a fi re drake) and seek out the nearest vol cano or other geol ogi cal hot-spot
to live out their life. The possessor still retains knowledge of how the fire heart
functions, and continues to use it to protect themselves. This is what is believed to
have happened to Magnolina, last known possessor of this artifact. If this curse is
i nappropri ate for your campai gn, rol l twi ce on Tabl e 5: Curses.
II
Valer Drake Hearl
Constant Powers The possessor of this Heart of the Drake can breath underwater
and acts as if he was wearing a helm of underwater action, as long as the artifact
i s somewhere on hi s person. The possessor can al so communi cate (vi a tel epathy)
wi th any other underwater creature, bei ng treated as neutral at the begi n-
ni ng of the encounter. The owner of thi s heart can wal k on water
as per a ring of water walking at will.
The user of the water heart gains +4 versus all spells from
the Sphere of Water, and damage die rolls of 1 or 2 are
i gnored. Anyone hol di ng thi s Heart of t he Drake i s
i mmune to al l water-based attacks caused by a water
drake (not physi cal cl aw or bi te attacks). In addi ti on,
the possessor of this heart is considered invisible to all
water drakes whi l e hol di ng the heart before them,
unl ess attacki ng or otherwi se causi ng the creature harm.
Water drakes are i mmune to al l other effects produced by
this artifact.
Invoked Powers Twice per day the possessor of this
Heart of the Drake can cause a single creature to dehydrate,
causi ng 8d8 poi nts of damage. Onl y creatures i mmersed i n
water are i mmune to thi s damage. Characters ki l l ed by thi s attack
cannot be rai sed from the dead wi thout fi rst havi ng a restorati on spel l
cast on them.
Addi ti onal l y, once per month the possessor of the water heart can create up to
100 gallons of fresh water in a given area. The water must be contained in some
way (such as a hole dug for an oasis, or a holding tank), else it will likely be
absorbed by the dry ground.
l evel of abi l i ty: conj ure l esser water el emental (1/week), wal l of i ce (1/day), ref l ect -
i ng pool (1/day).
above: three abilities from Table 10: Elemental Water.
each time an invoked power is used to increase the users demand for water,
requi ri ng they dri nk no l ess than fi ve ti mes thei r normal i ntake each day. Hence, a
human woul d need fi ve gal l ons of water and a hal f-gi ant woul d requi re 20 gal l ons
each day to avoi d Consti tuti on l oss. Consti tuti on abi l i ty poi nts l ost i n thi s manner
are gone forever, and cannot be regained short of a wish spell. If this curse is inap-
propriate for your campaign, roll twice on Table 5: Curses.
The Heart of the Fire Drake can be destroyed by casting it into the heart of the
hottest vol cano on Athas and casti ng a resurrect i on spel l . After one week an
anci ent fi re drake wi l l emerge from the l ava.
The Heart of the Air Drake can be destroyed by casting it into the eye of a hurri-
cane and casti ng a resurrect i on spel l . After one week an anci ent ai r drake wi l l
emerge from the storm.
The Heart of the Earth Drake can be destroyed by casting it into the center of an
earthquake and casti ng a resurrect i on spel l . After one week an anci ent earth drake
wi l l emerge from the ground.
The Heart of the Water Drake can be destroyed by casting it into the sea and
casti ng a resurrect i on spel l . After one week an anci ent water drake wi l l emerge
from the water.
I2
The Hearlvood Spear
The Heartwood Spear is a weapon that appears to have once been a portion of
gnarled tree. The spear is six feet in length, coming to an extremely sharp natural
point at both ends. The spear is fashioned from an unknown type of wood, colored
in the deepest burgundy, and its surface is completely smooth.
Povers
The Heartwood Spear is so puissant that it tingles with energy in the hands
of its wielder. The spear is a +5 weapon to hit and damage, doing normal
spear damage. The weapon ignores all armor of a target, magical or other-
wise. If maximum damage is inflicted with the Heartwood Spear to an
armored target, the armor must make a saving throw versus disintegration
or be destroyed. In addition, the possessor of the spear is immune to all
nature-based magic, and all psionic effects.
Hlslory
The true origins of the Heartwood Spear are unknown outside of the halfling race. It
is thought that perhaps this artifact was once a piece of the Last Tree, though the
onl y person who coul d veri fy thi s i s Nok the Hal fl i ng. However, Nok peri shed i n
battle with Sadira while attempting to retrieve Ktandeos Cane and return it to the
halflings of the Forest Ridge.
The Heartwood Spear was given to Rikus by Nok during the 190th Kings
Age, when the halflings discovered that King Kalak of Tyr was going to
accelerate his dragon metamorphosis to a stage akin to that of Borys of
Ebe. It was for this reason that Nok gave the Heartwood Spear to
Rikus to kill King Kalak of Tyr before he could become another dra-
coni c horror.
with the spear, pursued her across the Tablelands. During their final
battle near the Canyon of Guthay, Nok transformed the Heartwood Spear
into an immense oak tree to keep the weapon from Sadira.
Rikus was able to seriously injure King Kalak with the Heartwood
Spear, though it did not kill him. Later, Kalak was slain by the corn-
bined effort of Rikus, Sadira, Tithian, and Agis of Asticles. Afterwards,
Rikus honored his promise to Nok and returned the Heartwood Spear.
However, Sadira refused to return Ktandeos Cane, and Nok, armed
Campalgn Use
The Heartwood Spear is a weapon of considerable power, one that has
proven itself to be a killer of sorcerer-kings. Should a DM decide that the
characters in their campaign have need of a weapon like the Heartwood
Spear, they may have to seek out a halfling with the knowledge to transform
the oak back into the spear. If the characters are not halflings, this could be a
difficult task.
Another possibility is that in a DMs specific campaign, the battle
between Nok and Sadira never occurred, and thus the Heartwood Spear
is currently in the hands of either Nok or another member of his tribe. In
this case, characters wishing to obtain the use of this powerful weapon
would have to seek out those who possess it-a dangerous task when
feral halflings are concerned.
Smashed against the lands of the Obsidian Plain
The spear will rot if it ever draws the blood of a halfling.
I3
Klandeo`s Cane
Ktandeo s Cane i s a wooden rod constructed of an unknown hardwood, wi th an
obsidian ball five inches in diameter affixed to the end of the rod.
Hlslory
This artifact was the creation of a powerful halfling named Ktandeo, who was master
to the wizardess Sadira. Though Ktandeo could not use magic, he taught Sadira and
many others the art of drawing magic from the land without defiling its essencein
other words, the art of being a preserver. Ktandeo, with the help of Nok and the Last
Tree created this cane to help in his struggle against the defilers of the land.
Ktandeo died while in the pits of Tyr, but before he passed he told Sadira of the
Heartwood Spear and Ktandeos Cane. The dying halfling believed that these
two artifacts of the halfling race were the only objects that could destroy
King Kalak of Tyr. When Rikus was given the Heartwood Spear by Nok,
Sadira received Ktandeos Cane as an additional weapon to use in the
defense of Tyr and the Forest Ridge.
Following the death of King Kalak, Sadira refused to return the artifact
named after her late master to Nok. It was because of this that the halfling
pursued Sadira across the Tablelands, until their final confrontation at the
Canyon of Guthay. It was here that Nok shattered the obsidian ball atop
the cane and threw the shattered cane into the canyonwhere it might
still be found to this day.
Campalgn Use
Ktandeos Cane is a powerful weapon that allows non-wizards to cast wizardry
magic. Ktandeo felt that to fight defiling magic, he must have magic of his own, and
thus created this artifact. Ktandeos Cane can be used by any character type.
Like the events which transformed Heartwood Spear, the destruction of
Ktandeos Cane need not be a part of a DMs campaign. It could also be the
focus of a plot to restore the artifact to aid the halfling race against some
new threat-to retri eve i t from the Canyon of Guthay to restore the shattered
orb that directed its power.
Povers
Invoked Powers This artifact bestows spell-like abilities upon the possessor,
which are channeled through the cane and focused on a target through the
bsi di an orb. The command word to acti vate the cane i s Nok, fol l owed by a
ond command word for the desi red effecttypi cal l y the name of the spel l
needed. Ktandeos Cane can only produce wizard spells and spell-like effects.
Three times per day Ktandeos Cane can invoke any wizard spell of 1st through
3rd level. The cane can be used more than three times per day, but this increases the
power of the curse. The possessor needs to have witnessed the spell being cast once
before to duplicate the effect. The effects of this spell are considered to have been
cast by a 15th level preserver for purposes of duration, range, and damage.
Suggested Powers Ktandeos Cane can produce the following powers at 15th level
of ability: globe of invulnerability (1/day), hold monster (2/day), suffocate (1/week),
and protection from evil 15 radius (5/day).
Random Powers These powers are randomly generated instead of the suggested
powers above: two abilities from Table 16: Major Spell-like Powers, one ability from
Table 19: Offensive Powers, and one abiIity from Table 25: Protections.
CurseLike the magic that is drawn from the land to fuel a wizards spells,
Ktandeos Cane draws upon the life-force of its possessor to generate its spell-like
abilities. Each time the artifact is used, the possessor ages six months. Should the pos-
sessor choose to invoke the artifacts power more than three time a day, the posses-
sors life-force is then taxed even further, causing the user to age 12 months.
I4
The effects of aging on the user manifest as graying hair, age spots, and other signs
of age. Nothing can restore the users essence, not even a wish spell.
Impacted with an item fabricated from the Last Tree.
Crushed under the foot of a powerful defiler (20th level or higher).
Broken in two by an elderly halfling.
The Last Tree is a magnificent tree which stands at the top of the highest mountain of
the Forest Ridge. The tree is enormous, having a diameter of nearly a dozen yards, it
is without a doubt the greatest tree on all of Athas.
This ancient tree possesses thick barkso thick that a sword can barely scratch its
surface-and leaves the size of a dwarf. The very top of the tree is covered in a fine
mist, some 500 feet above its roots. The variety of the tree is unknown: however, it
has the bark of an oak, the leaves of a maple, and is the size of a redwood.
Hlslory
Over 14,000 years ago a brown ti de began sweepi ng over the l and, destroy-
ing the land of the ancient halflings and bringing to an end the paradise that
was the Blue Age. As the lands of Tyr-agi (today known as the Tyr Valley)
were about to be destroyed by the foul ti de, an al l -powerful hal fl i ng nature-
master by the name of Sull gathered a thousand of his kin and fled to the
l ands beyond the forest ri dgetaki ng wi th them the cheri shed knowl edge of
thei r l i vi ng creati ons. But the corrupt hal fl i ngs known as nat ure-benders pur-
sued Sull and his charges, wanting the secrets of the living creations for
themsel ves.
In the battl e that fol l owed, onl y 300 hal fl i ngs and a smal l porti on of the
l i vi ng knowl edge survi ved. The remai nder gave thei r l i ves so the rest woul d
survi ve, i ncl udi ng Sul l . Mortal l y i nj ured ami dst the mountai ns of the Forest
Ri dge, the nature-master crawl ed hi s way to near the top of an unnamed
mountai n. On a ri dge overl ooki ng the fol i age of the forest beyond the moun-
tains, Sull thrust his arms into the soil and uttered words never again heard
upon Athasand transformed hi msel f i nto a tree.
Smal l and unremarkabl e at fi rst, the bei ng that was once Sul l watched many
other trees around him sprout from seeds and die of old age over the next
dozen centuri es-al l the whi l e growi ng tal l er and broader than any other tree
on Athas. The mind that was once Sull lived on in the heart of the tree, retain-
ing the last knowledge of the nature-masters. The Last Tree is a combination of
a living artifact and what was once Sull. It is the Last Trees hope that one day
it can pass on its knowledge to restore Athas once again to a Blue Age.
About the time that the Cleansing Wars of Rajaat were to change Athas
forever, a l one hal fl i ng hunter became l ost i n the mountai ns of the Forest
Ri dge, fol l owi ng a terri bl e battl e wi th a bul ette, and stumbl ed upon the Last
Tree. The hal fl i ng, named Too l ane, marvel ed at the trul y magni fi cent tree,
believing it to be the last thing he would ever see. As Toolane was about to
expire from the effects of his wounds, the Last Tree bent a branch down and
restored the i nj ured ki n to perfect heal th.
The need for rest prevented Too l ane from returni ng to hi s vi l l age for sever-
al days, and the Last Tree took this time to study the halfling warriorit was
extremel y di sappoi nted. Hal fl i ngs had l ost thei r way i n the thousands of
years since the end of the Blue Age. The halflings of the Forest Ridge had
become a savage race, forgetting all of what the nature-masters had strived to
teach them. The tree that was Sul l wept at thi s, and water poured down upon
Toolane as he rested. Looking up to see a clear blue sky, the halfling warrior
wondered what coul d have produced the water.
I5
Days later Toolane left, but he remembered the massive tree. He told his tale to
the elders of his village upon his return. Toolane returned to the Last Tree weeks
later, along with several elders and a powerful rain cleric of their village. The cleric
dropped to her knees after beholding the Last Tree, for to her that which was once
the nature-master was the greatest thing she had ever seen. The rain cleric named
Dew remained behind, staying with the Last Tree for the rest of her life.
Over the next 2,000 years halfling rain clerics from throughout the Forest Ridge
came to the Last Tree to learn from the living artifact. The Last Tree realized that its
dream of restoring the Blue Age to Athas was not lost, and began to share its knowl-
edge with its former kin. The last halfling to learn from the living artifact was Nok,
and this may have been where he obtained the Heartwood Spear.
The location of the Last Tree is one of the most closely guarded secrets of the
halflings. Even renegade halflings who know of the living artifact do not speak of it
to anyone outside of their race. They fear that all of its power and knowledge would
be lost should non-halflings discover its location. The sorcerer-kings in particular
would love to discover the location of this Blue Age relic.
Campalgn Use
The Last Tree is the greatest of the living artifacts of the Blue Age left on Athas. It
possess great knowl edge regardi ng the newl y di scovered l i vi ng i tems that have
begun to resurface across Athas. However, the Last Tree i s very sel ecti ve about
who recei ves i ts knowl edge. Si nce i ts contact wi th Too l ane, the Last Tree has
l earned of humans, and has chosen not to deal wi th themi t onl y communi cates
wi th hal fl i ngs. Shoul d hal fl i ngs come i nto contact wi th one of the l i vi ng arti facts
of Athas, they could bring it to the Last Tree to gain insight into what it is that
t hey ve f ound.
The Last Tree could serve as a repository of ancient knowledge for a campaign;
however, remember that the l i vi ng arti fact woul d have l i ttl e i nformati on on thi ngs
created after the Blue Age other than what it has been told by halfling visitors.
Should characters be able to convince the Last Tree that they are worthy to learn its
ancient secrets, knowledge is usually presented in cryptic phrases. Wisdom, believes
the tree, is what is truly needed to unlock the ancient secrets of the Blue Age. Most
non-halflings who encounter the Last Tree are either killed by the living artifact, or
the tribe of halflings that live in the valley below.
Povers
The Last Tree has many powers, some of which it can bestow upon others in the
form of spells and spell-like abilities. Most of these powers are temporary, while oth-
ers are abilities cast by the tree itself.
Constant Powers The Last Tree is immune to the effects of magical fire and psion-
its (as they did not exist during the Blue Age), but can be injured by normal fire.
However, the moisture surrounding the tree makes it too damp to burn. The living
artifact can also create up to 20 gallons of water per day, drawing the moisture out
of the air to keep itself and its charges alive. With the trees permission, wood can be
harvested from its branches to be formed into powerful weapons (from +1 to +5 in
enchantment).
Invoked Powers Should something threaten the Last Tree, twice per day it can
conjure a chain lightning spell at 20th level of effect to annihilate invaders. The spell
originates from the mist surrounding the top branches of the tree. In addition, the
Last Tree can use any ability on Table 14: Healing, and Table 20: Nature at will.
Bestowed Powers The Last Tree has the ability three times per day to bestow pow-
ers upon an individuallasting 2d10 days before fading. Choose these abilities from
the tables listed under invoked powers or roll them randomly.
The mountain on which the Last Tree rests erupts, and the tree is destroyed.
Preventing the tree from receiving sunlight for 72 hours.
I 6
Crbs of Kalld-Ma
The Orbs of Kalid-Ma are five spheres once used to aid the sorcerer-king Kalid-Ma in
his metamorphosis into a dragon. Each of the orbs are a different sizeranging from
two inches to two feet in diameter. Each of the orbs is constructed of pure obsidian,
and through powers psionic and magical they are all virtually indestructible.
Hlslory
The ancient city of Kalidney was one of the riches city-states of the Tyr region, ruled
by the sorcerer-king Kalid-Ma, 15th Champion of Rajaat, Tari Killer. Following the
Cleansing Wars and the betrayal of Rajaats champions, Kalid-Ma was obsessed with
obtaining power. It is thought by some that Kalidney was destroyed in some natural
disaster, but in truth the city was destroyed by it own ruler.
After years of research, Kalid-Ma attempted to accelerate the dragon transforma-
tion using spells of his own creation. His plan was to become a dragon in one stage
by empoweri ng fi ve obsi di an orbs and swal l owi ng al l of them at once. Once the
spell was complete, Kalid-Ma vaulted from a 22nd level dragon to a 27th level drag-
on-but at a great cost. The pain that assailed the sorcerer-king was too much, and
all reason and sanity was purged from the resultant creature. In the end, all that
remained was a rampaging dragon.
After destroying Kalidney, the monster moved out into the Tyr region, leaving a
trail of destruction. It was only after the destruction of Kalidney that Borys of Ebe,
Kalak of Tyr, and Hamanu of Urik took notice of Kalid-Mas transformation. Without
the intelligence Kalid-Ma once possessed, he was easy prey for the three Champions
of Rajaat. The former ruler of Kalidney fell before them after a battle that lasted near-
ly two days. The orbs which fueled the transformation survived. Kalid-Mas physical
form was destroyed, ravaged by the power of the three champions, but still Kalid-Ma
lived on, in a fashion.
The sorcerer-kings intellect, psionic, and magical powers had been transferred into
the five orbs. Should all of the orbs be reunited, the sorcerer-kings patchwork mind
will become whole. Its sole purpose will be to restore Kalid-Ma to life. Once all of
the orbs are reunited, they must be swallowed by a defiler/psionicist of 20th level or
higher. If this is done, the power of the orbs will absorb the hosts mind and Kalid-
Ma will be reborn as a 27th level dragon, this time with full control of his magic and
mi nd.
Following the sorcerer-kings defeat, the five Orbs of Kalid-Ma were taken from
the ruins of Kalidney by looters, and are now scattered across the Tyr region. One of
the orbs was found in the treasure room of Kalak following his death, though it is
thought to have been looted by a templar who later fled the city. Another of the orbs
was spotted in Draj a decade ago in the hands of the House of the Mind (a possible
front for the Order); however, rumors state that the orb was stolen from the House
just last year. Of the other three, there has been no word.
Campalgn Use
The Orbs of Kalid-Ma can be a tool of great power, or a terrible master. The more
orbs col l ected by an i ndi vi dual , the more power they l l accumul ateand the
stronger the consciousness of Kalid-Ma becomes. When even one of the orbs is in
the possession of a character, he runs the risk of being dominated by the artifact.
Each of the five orbs has an ego rating, representing the strength of that portion of
Kalid-Mas mind. Once the combined ego rating of the orbs is greater than the com-
bined Intelligence, Charisma and level of the possessing character, he is dominated
by the artifact (immunities not withstanding).
If three or more orbs are brought together, a dominated character will be drawn to
the remaining orbsknowing their location. Once all the orbs are collected, the posses-
sor will have power equal to a sorcerer-king. The dominated character will then attempt
to find a host body for the intellect, and bring Kalid-Ma back to life. Should this tran-
spire, the reborn sorcerer-king would repay the character with a swift death.
I7
Crb #I: The Proleclor
Size This is the smallest of the five orbs, measuring only two inches in diameter.
Ego This orb has an ego rating of 10.
Constant Powers The powers of this orbs protection. The powers guard from mun-
dane, magical, and psionic attacks. The possessor of this orb is immune to normal mis-
sile attacks as per the protection from normal missiles spell. The orb also grants a +2 to
all magic-based saving throws, and +2 to the possessors MAC (mental armor class).
Invoked Powers Once per day this orb can form a bubble around the possessor
equal to a cube of force, with the effect being a random roll of 1-6 (see DMG
Appendix 3 for details) for up to 1 turn.
Suggested Powers This orb imbues the possessor with the following powers at 22nd
level of ability: immunity to illusion spells (seeing them only as shadowy forms),
neutralize poison (1/day), mind blank as long as the artifact is in hand.
Random Powers These powers are generated instead of the suggested powers: two
abilities from Table 15: immunities, and one ability from Table 25: Protections.
Curse The possessor of this orb believes himself to be invulnerable to all forms of
attack. Should the character wish to act otherwise (such as not drinking an offered
vial of poison or bothering to dodge an incoming arrow), he or she must make a
check versus their current Wisdom Score. If this curse is inappropriate for your cam-
paign, roll one result from Table 5: Curses.
Crb #2: Crb of Mlnor Maglc
Size This is the second smallest of the orbs, measuring four inches in diameter.
Constant Powers The powers of this orb are centered around minor spells and
spell-like abilities used by a defiler or preserver. While this orb is held before the
possessor, they are immune to minor spells as if surrounded by a minor globe of
invulnerability. Also, while in possession of this orb all wizard spells of levels 1-3
cast by the character have doubl e the normal durati on (when appl i cabl e).
Invoked Powers Twice per day the possessor of this orb may recall one spell that
has been cast within the last 12 hours. Also twice per day the possessor may choose
to have a wizard spell of level 1-3 inflict maximum damage upon a target.
Suggested Powers This orb also imbues the possessor with the following powers
at 22nd level of ability: burning hands (5/day), dancing lights (5/day), fear (3/day),
sanctuary (5/day), and free action (1/day).
powers above: four abilities from Table 17: Minor Spell-like Powers, and one ability
from Table 18: Movement.
Curse Use of any of this orbs spell-like powers causes all water within 30 of the
user to become polluted. There is no saving throw for this effect. If this curse is inap-
propriate for your campaign, roll one result from Table 5: Curses.
Crb #3: The Confronler
Size This orb is the third smallest of the five, measuring nine inches in diameter.
Constant Powers The powers of this orb are centered around offensive spells and
combative powers. All damage rolls made with this in a characters possession gain
a +4 bonus, with die rolls of a natural 19 or higher that hit doing double damage.
This orb has the ability to increase the power of a spell cast through it. If a spell is
cast with this orb in one hand (as with a staff of power, a spell requiring somatic
components is not adversely affected by holding the orb), the power of the spell is
increased. The range of the spell (if not touch) is doubled, the duration (if not perma-
nent) is tripled, and if the spell causes damage all results of 1 or 2 on the dice are
treated as a result of 3. The possessor of this orb has the ability to increase their
THAC0 score by five or to a two, whichever is better, up to three times per day for
one hour.
I8
Invoked Powers Once per week this orb has the ability to cause time stop with a
30 yard radi us for 1d6+1 rounds; however, usi ng thi s power i nvokes one of the
items curses (see Curse below).
Thi s orb al so has the abi l i ty to refl ect one attack, magi cal or physi cal , twi ce
per day. Damage from sword cuts appear on the wi el der of the weapon, and
di rected magi c i s turned back on the caster. Thi s acti on can be decl ared after the
attack has occurred, but must be used before damage i s assi gned; i n addi ti on, the
orb must be held in the possessors hand for this power to be invoked. The
reflected attack has no effect on the possessor, and can only be redirected to the
ori gi nal source.
Suggested Powers This orb imbues the possessor with the following powers at
22nd level of ability: energy drain by touch (1/week), strength upon user (3/day), call
lightning (1/week), haste (1/day), flaming sphere (5/day), and shocking grasp (5/day).
powers above: three abilities from Table 3: Combat, two abilities from Table 17:
Minor Spell-like Powers, and one ability from Table 16: Major Spell-Like Powers.
Curse The curses associated with this orb results from the possessors inability
to control the dragon magic of the sorcerer-kings. If the orbs time stop ability is
i nvoked, al l dead humanoi ds wi thi n the area of effect ri se from the thei r l i fel ess
state and attack the nearest living creature. This does not effect anyone killed by
the possessor whi l e the ti me stop was i nvoked, onl y those dead beforehand. Treat
al l undead as standard zombi es who attack unti l destroyed.
In addi ti on, i f any other spel l -l i ke powers are i nvoked, the orb draws the energy
for the spell as if a defiler of the possessors level had cast the spell, defiling an
area surrounding the character. If there is no plant life-force to draw upon, then
the essence is taken from the possessor-aging him or her one year. If these afflic-
ti ons are i nappropri ate for your campai gn, choose two resul ts from Tabl e 2:
Cataclysms, and one result from Table 5: Curses.
Crb #4: Crb of Schools
Size This orb is the second largest of the five, having a diameter of 14 inches.
Constant Powers The powers of this orb are based on the various schools of
magi c (Abj urati on, Conj urati on/Summoni ng, Di vi nati on, Enchantment/Charm,
Necromancy, and Invocation/Evocation) available to defilers and preservers. If the
possessor of the orb is a defiler or preserver, he or she may choose one school of
magic at the beginning of each day and memorize two extra spells of each spell
level theyre capable of casting. For example: a defiler able to cast three first level
spells and one second level spell would be able to memorize and cast two extra first
level spells and two extra second level spells belonging to the chosen school.
In addi ti on, spel l s from the school of Invocati on/Evocati on (spel l s Kal i d-Ma par-
ticularly liked to use) can be memorized in one-quarter of the time by the possessor
of this orb. Spells memorized by the possessor from the Illusion/Phantasm school
take three times as long to memorize.
Invoked Powers Once per day the possessor of this orb can choose to gain a
50% magic resistance to all spells cast from one school of magic. The school of
magic must be chosen before any spells are cast, and lasts for a period of 12 hours.
The possessor must be familiar with the school in question to resist it.
In addition, the possessor can impose a negative modifier to saving throws
against a certain school of spells twice per day. After declaring this intention, the
possessor of this orb can impose a -3 modifier to an opponents saving throw when
applicable. This power has no effect on spells that do not require a saving throw of
some sort. This negative modifier lasts until the target misses a saving throw of the
appropri ate school .
at 22nd l evel of abi l i ty: avoi dance between a creature and the user (1/day), merci ful
shadows by touch (7/day), aerial servant (1/week), grease (3/day), wizard eye
(3/day), detect magic (3/day), charm person (2/day), wall of force (1/day), chill
t ouch (5/day), pol ymorph other (3/day), and wei rd (1/week).
I9
powers above: two abilities from Table 1: Abjurations, two abilities from Table 4:
Conjuration/Summoning, two abilities from Table 6: Detection, one ability from
Table 12: Enchantment/Charm, one ability from Table 17: Major Spell-like Powers,
two abilities from Table 17: Minor Spell-like Powers, and one ability from Table
19: Offensive Powers.
Curse The possessor of this orb has a 1% cumulative chance per day he carries
thi s orb of bei ng affl i cted wi th del usi onal i nsani ty, bel i evi ng hi msel f as powerful as
a sorcerer-king. The possessor demands he or she is paid the proper respect
deserved of a sorcerer-ki ng, becomi ng extremel y hosti l e shoul d thi s reverence be
ignored. If things such as a specific act by the party or an important decision is
made wi thout the possessor s consul tati on, the owner of thi s orb becomes exceed-
i ngl y unfri endl y to al l i nvol ved-possi bl y goi ng so far as to wi thhol d assi stance
from them in a life or death situation. If this curse is inappropriate for your cam-
paign, choose or randomly generate one results from Table 5: Curses, and one
result from Table 2: Cataclysms.
Crb #5: The Mlndbender
Size This is the largest of the five orbs, having a diameter of 24 inches.
Constant Powers The powers of this orb are psionic, possessing all of the psion-
ic power that was Kalid-Mas to wield. The possessor of this orb has access to all
fi ve of the psi oni c attack forms (ego whi p, i d i nsi nuati on, mi nd thrust, psi oni c
blast, and psychic crush) and the five psionic defense forms (intellect fortress,
mental barri er, mi nd bl ank, thought shi el d, and tower of i ron wi l l ). In addi ti on, the
possessors MAC (mental armor class) is increased by 4 points, and all MTHAC0
(mental to hit armor class zero) rolls gain a bonus of +4.
The possessor of this orb also has access to a portion of PSPs once held by Kalid-
Maa total of 200 PSPs to draw from. These points can be used instead of the pos-
sessors own points, and are used to activate and maintain the powers of this orb.
Thi s orb al so bestows psi oni c abi l i ty upon a character who possesses onl y a
wi l d tal ent, or i ncreases the experi ence l evel of a psi oni ci st. Characters who have
no psi oni c abi l i ty gai n no benefi t from thi s arti fact.
A character wi th onl y a wi l d tal ent who comes i nto possessi on of thi s orb gai ns
the abi l i ti es of a 4th l evel psi oni ci st (defi l ers gai n the powers of a 6th l evel psi oni -
ci st). The character chooses psi oni c di sci pl i nes, taki ng i nto account al l prerequi -
si tes and other l i mi tati ons. Thi s new cl ass becomes ei ther a dual - or a mul ti -opti on
for the character, dependi ng on thei r race. Al l hi t poi nts and THAC0 scores change
accordi ngl y wi th these new l evel s. Addi ti onal experi ence and powers are gai ned
normal l y, wi th new psi oni c ski l l s taught by the orb and not a master.
A character who i s a psi oni ci st control l i ng thi s orb gai ns four l evel s of experi -
ence. If the character is a multiclassed defiler/psionicist, the possessor gains six
l evel s of experi ence. The affected characters gai ns appropri ate addi ti onal di sci -
pl i nes, hi t poi nts, and other adj ustments concurrent wi th the l evel i ncrease.
Addi ti onal psi oni c di sci pl i nes gai ned through thi s l evel i ncrease are chosen by the
character, and are learned from the orb. In any case, if the character loses posses-
si on of the orb, these powers and addi ti onal arti fi ci al l evel s are l ost.
Invoked Powers Like the orb of schools, the possessor of this orb can choose to
i gnore the effects of any one type of psi oni c di sci pl i neCl ai rsenti ent,
Psychoki neti c, Psychometabol i c, Psychoporti ve, or Tel epathi c. Thi s power operates
once per day for 12 hours. No psi oni c powers of the chosen school can effect the
orbs possessor unless he or she chooses to allow it. This power works against both
sci ences and devoti ons of the chosen di sci pl i nes.
In addition, twice per day the possessor can choose to reflect a psionic attack back
upon its source. This power must be one that would have caused the orbs possessor phys-
ical or mental damage in some way, such as disintegrate or ego whip. This action must be
declared following the opponents MTHAC0 roll, but before any damage is assigned.
Twice per day, the possessor of this orb can choose to impose a negative modifier
to MTHAC0 rolls of another psionic humanoid or creature. This action must occur
20
before any dice rolls, and causes a -5 penalty to the attempt. This negative modifier
lasts until the victim succeeds at a MTHAC0 roll.
at 22nd level of ability: detect psionics (3/day), know direction while in hand, dis-
placement for one hour (1/day), see magic while in hand, inflict pain by touch, true
sight for one turn (1/day), life draining for up to one turn (2/day), ultrablast (1/week),
and mi nd bl ank whi l e i n hand.
powers above: one ability from Table 6: Detection, four abilities from Table 23:
Psionic PowersDevotions, three abilities from Table 24: Psionic PowersSciences,
and one ability from Table 25: Protections.
Curses The longer a character possesses this orb, the more theyre likely to drop
whatever other character class they possess and devote their time to being a psioni-
cist. Powerful fighters will throw down their weapons (even magical ones) and use
their newfound psionic abilities, bards will neglect their poisons, and clerics forget
their spells and use their psionic powers instead. If the possessor is a defiler, they
lose none of their abilities (as their classes are akin to that of a sorcerer-king)a pre-
server will eventually switch over to the defiler class.
The chance for this to occur is 1% cumulative per day the character possesses this
orb. Once this transformation to the psionicist class is complete, the character loses
all knowledge of his or her former class. Should the character ever lose possession of
the mindbender orb, they become a 0-level character and must begin from scratch if
they wish to adventure again.
Possesslon of Mulllple Crbs
Should a character come into possession of multiple orbs, additional powers can be
gainedand additional side-effects. Once all the orbs are gathered, the possessor is
geased to subdue a sorcerer-king or other defiler/psionicist and force them to swal-
low the five artifacts and restore Kalid-Ma to life as a 27th level dragon.
Commanding Two Orbs The possessor gains one ability from Table 6: Detections,
and one ability from Table 8: Elemental Air. In addition, the possessor gains a roll on
Table 13: Fate and Fortune.
Commanding Three Orbs The possessor gains one ability from Table 3: Combat,
one ability from Table 7: Divination, and one ability from Table 11: Elemental Earth.
In addition to one from Table 22: Personal Enhancement, and must roll once on
Table 2: Cataclysms. The effect of the roll on Table 2 takes effect if any invoked pow-
ers are activated.
Commanding Four Orbs The possessor gains one ability from Table 9: Elemental
Fire, one ability from Table 14: Healing, and one ability from Table 18: Movement.
With ownership of a fourth orb, the possessor is immediately aflicted with a curse
from Table 5: Curses and the ego rating of the artifact will overwhelm the possessor
into seeking out the final orb to fulfil its sinister purpose.
Commanding Five Orbs The possessor gains one ability from Table 10: Elemental
Water, one ability from Table 16: Major Spell-Like Powers, and one ability from
Table 19: Offensive Powers. At this time the orbs are totally in control of the unfortu-
nate character and will force him to seek out a sorcerer-king to battle.
Collectively bring all five of the orbs to the Pristine Tower, and shatter them against
its walls.
Strike the orbs with the bone of a Tari, the creatures Kalid-Ma attempted to wipe
from the face of Athas centuries ago.
Cover them in the blood of two sorcerer-kings.
Drop all five of the orbs into a cauldron of boiling gold.
2I
The Planar Cale
The planar gate is an artifact from Athas Green Age. It resembles a giant mirror set
i n a mahogany frame wi th gi l ded i mages of strange ani mal s and races l ong dead.
The pl anar gate i s currentl y i n the hands of Dregoth, the Undead Dragon-Ki ng.
Hlslory
The ancients of the Green Age were powerful psionicists with abilities and knowl-
edge far beyond those of even the greatest members of the Order today. These
psi oni ci sts created the Pl anar Gate usi ng powers that no l onger exi st on Athtas
today. Wi th the pl anar gate they expl ored the vast reaches of other worl ds. The
arti fact was kept wi thi n a great keep hi dden i n a cavern beneath Gi ustenal , where
it was used to study the myriad planes of existence.
As the Green Age gave way to the Ti me of Magi c, the cavern contai ni ng
the pl anar gate was abandoned and forgotten. The gate sat beneath the
pl ace that woul d one day be cal l ed the Groani ng Ci ty, awai ti ng di scovery.
Centuri es passed, then duri ng the days of the Cl eansi ng War, demi -humans
from Gi ustenal establ i shed a sanctuary i n the cavern. They di scovered the
pl anar gate, and l ooked upon i t as a si gn from thei r god.
To the followers of Taraskir the Lion, then king of Giustenal, all things
l eoni ne were sacred. Whi l e they had no i dea what the pl anar gate trul y
was, i t showed them a worl d of grassl and wi th l i ons roami ng free. They
believed the cavern to be blessed by Taraskir, and lived there for a time in
safety and peace.
Less than two decades later, Dregoth the Ravager and his forces found
the hi dden cavern and destroyed the demi -humans. The pl anar gate then
fel l i nto Dregoth s possessi on. It now resi des i n hi s Dread Pal ace, provi d-
i ng the undead sorcerer-ki ng wi th a wi ndow and a doorway to other
wor l ds.
The anci ents of the Green Age that created thi s uni que and powerful
psi oni c i tem used techni ques and knowl edge l ost i n the mi sts of the
ages-processes far beyond the understandi ng of the greatest member of
the Order or the most powerful sorcerer-ki ng al i ve today. Dregoth has di s-
covered how to operate the pl anar gate, but he cannot bui l d another.
Once it is destroyed, the gate will be lost for all time, as no one on Athas
has the knowl edge or ski l l to rebui l d i t.
Campalgn Use
It i s extremel y unl i kel y that a band of adventurers woul d be abl e to steal
the pl anar gate from New Gi ustenal wi thout i ncurri ng the wrath of
Dregoth and hi s fol l owers. However, the gate can be used by anyone
wi th the psi oni c powers cl ai rvoyance and probabi l i ty travel to travel
beyond the confines of Athas. This is one of the few ways for player char-
acters from Athas to travel to the i nfi ni te worl ds of the outer and i nner
pl anes.
Povers
Since the planar gate is unique in the Dark Sun setting, it contains powers
that are not found on the random generati on charts. The pl anar gate radi -
ates strong psi oni c energy. Usi ng the psi oni c sense devoti on, a character
can discover that the gate spends one PSP per round to keep an image in
the mirror in focus. The gate itself has been empowered, giving it sen-
ti ence and al l owi ng i t to generate psi oni c poi nts.
22
To change the gates focus, a character must look into the mirror and use the clair-
voyance science. After two rounds of concentration, the image in the mirror begins
to shift to show various planes of existence. To determine how long it takes to locate
a particular plane, the DM should assign a number from 1 to 100, then use a per-
centile die in an attempt to roll the same number. The reason for this is that there are
so many different planes, and many characters will exhaust their supply of PSPs
before the desired plane comes into focus. It is the DMs option to have specific
planes in mind when characters encounter the gate.
To step through the mirror, a character must use the probability travel science.
The use of thi s sci ence al l ows the character to part the thi n boundary between the
two pl anes, al l owi ng them to step through to the i mage presented i n the mi rror.
The initial cost of the powers use remains the same (20 PSPs), and this opens the
pl anar boundary l ong enough for the character to step through. To keep i t open
l ong enough to al l ow others to fol l ow, the travel er requi res the user to spend 8
additional PSPs per person. The gate will stay focused on the location until the
image is shifted by another use of clairvoyance, until that time the gate itself
spends the PSPs necessary to keep the distant location in view.
On the other si de, the gate s l ocati on al ways appears as a shi mmeri ng rectangl e
of l i ght wi thi n some refl ecti ve surface (another mi rror, a smal l pool , etc.) Onl y
those who stepped through the pl anar gate can see the way back. Returni ng
requires another use of probability travel, and the gate must still be focused on the
l ocati on when the travel ers are ready to step back through.
The planar gate has a neutral alignment and an Intelligence score of 15. It can
communi cate vi a psi oni cs i n the common l anguage of the Green Age and i n
Dregoth s anci ent Gi ustenal tongue. It was created to provi de a means for study
and travel, and it has no problem with the uses Dregoth has found for it. If charac-
ters seem i nterested i n usi ng the pl anar gate, the devi ce wi l l tel l them how to do
so-though they may not be abl e to understand the l anguage i t uses. The pl anar
gate is not fond of idle chit-chat, and speaks of nothing other than where a charac-
ter wi shes to travel . However, i f someone i ntends on usi ng the gate i n a bl atantl y
evi l way (such as movi ng an i nvadi ng army through or bri ngi ng back sl aves from
another pl ane), the gate wi l l refuse to functi on for that person from then on.
Dregoth l earned of thi s i n earl y conversati ons wi th the devi ce, and has been cau-
tious in his use.
The gate can focus itself, if the character using it tells it where he or she wants
to go. This still requires the expenditure of the viewers PSPs, it just takes much
less time to align. If asked, the gate can focus the mirror on a specific plane in
1d6+1 rounds. The gate can even suppl y a l i mi ted hi story of the pl ane bei ng trav-
el ed to, and can al i gn i tsel f to a speci fi c pl ane someone el se (most l i kel y Dregoth)
has traveled to during the past 48 hours if the planes image is not currently dis-
pl ayed i n the mi rror.
The planar gate has 100 hit points and an effective armor class of 2. Each time a
successful hit is scored, the gate makes a saving throw versus the type of attack as
though it were a metal objectgaining a +3 to all saves. If the gate saves, it takes
onl y hal f damage.
If the spell gate is cast upon the device, an implosion in the fabric of reality
woul d occurand the gate woul d expl ode. Such an expl osi on woul d be devastat-
i ng, causi ng 10d10 damage to everythi ng wi thi n 100 yards.
If the planar gate is told that it has unwittingly participated in a truly evil act, it
will shatter. The gate destroys itself rather than be used for a purpose other than
study and expl orati on.
23
The Pslonalrlx
This artifact is another creation of the powerful psionicists of the Green Age,
though speci fi cs regardi ng i ts creati on have been l ost i n ti me. Appeari ng as a mys-
ti cal gem wi th an i nfi ni te pattern of l i ght wi thi n i t facets, the Psi onatri x i s the per-
fect bl endi ng of psi oni c power and magi cal energy. The gem i s the embodi ment
of psi oni c power, one of the greatest psi oni c i tems ever createdsecond onl y to
the Dark Lens. The Psionatrix is slightly bigger than a humans hand, but weighs
consi derabl y more than i t appears i t shoul d (about fi ve pounds).
Hlslory
Who created the Psi onatri x and for what purpose has been l ost over the cen-
turi es. There have been many l egends regardi ng the Psi onatri x pri or to Raj aat s
rise to power, but nothing had been heard of the artifact since the time of the
Champi ons. Legend states that the Psi onatri x contai ns l i mi tl ess psi oni c energy,
drawing it directly from Athas itself. The possessor of the Psionatrix is said to
have been abl e to draw upon hi s i nexhausti bl e suppl y of power, as wel l as bei ng
abl e to wi el d other extraordi nary psi oni c powers.
Thi s arti fact di sappeared from Athas, becomi ng onl y a myth tol d to i ni ti ates
of the Way, until its discovery by a member of the Order named Pharistes. This
Master of Telepathy felt that the reason Athas was in its present condition was due
to the mi suse of psi oni c power.
Phari stes used the Psi onatri x to augment hi s al ready i ncredi bl e power, and
wi th the ai d of a magi cal devi ce used the gem to dampen al l psi oni c power i n
the Tyr region. In the end, Pharistes was defeated and the Psionatrix was again
lost. Since its resurfacing, several sorcerer-kings have been interested in the dis-
covery of devi ce, wi shi ng to use i t to i ncrease thei r own power. Si nce the
Psi onatri x s l ast known l ocati on was the Dragon Crown Mountai ns, several have
expressed an interest in the powerful artifact. The sorcerer-king of Urik has sent
some of his finest warriors to the Dragons Crown in search of the Psionatrix,
many of whi ch have not returned.
Campalgn Uses
In the DARK SUN adventure DRAGONS CROWN
, the Psi onatri x was supposedl y

destroyed wi th a magi cal devi ce cal l ed a wat er hammer. The hammer produced a
powerful soni c vi brati on that shattered the fsi onatri x, preventi ng Phari stes from
dampeni ng al l Athasi an psi oni cs. If i n a speci fi c campai gn the Psi onatri x was
shattered, a smal l porti on of thi s arti fact may have survi ved and woul d sti l l
contai n an i ncredi bl e amount of power. Obvi ousl y, a smal l er porti on of the arti -
fact woul d be l ess powerful than the whol e. Remember that knowl edge of the
Psionatrixs return has spread across Athas, and more than just the sorcerer-kings
are l ooki ng for i t.
Povers
Abi l i ti es of the Psi onatri x are gi ven i n two forms: before the arti fact was shat-
tered by the water hammer, and after. Which version of the Psionatrix is used in
a DM s campai gn i s up to them. Regardl ess, both versi ons wi l l be sought after
shoul d the exi stence of the Psi onatri x become too wel l known.
24
PslonalrlxCrlglnal Verslon
Constant PowersBefore i ts destructi on from a bl ow by the wat er hammer, the
Psi onatri x was a very powerful psi oni c i tem. Any creature wi th psi oni c powers
that i s i n contact wi th the Psi onatri x has access to an unl i mi ted number of
PSPswhi ch are generated by the arti fact wi thout tappi ng i nto the wi el der s per-
sonal points. The possessor of the Psionatrix also has access to the five psionic
attacks (ego whi p, i d i nsi nuati on, mi nd thrust, psi oni c bl ast, and psychi c crush)
and the fi ve psi oni c defenses (i ntel l ect fortress, mental barri er, mi nd bl ank,
thought shi el d, and tower of i ron wi l l ) whi ch can be used at any ti me. Whi l e
hol di ng the arti fact, al l MAC scores are hal ved for chances of success, and range
for psi oni c abi l i ti es (when appl i cabl e) i s doubl ed. Al l other costs and prerequi -
sites are the same.
I nvoked Powers Once per day the Psi onatri x can i nhi bi t al l psi oni c acti vi ty i n a
one-mi l e radi us for three hours. Whi l e thi s psi oni c i nterference fi el d i s i n effect,
the cost of al l psi oni c powers i s quadrupl ed, and al l MAC rol l s are doubl ed. Thi s
fi el d i s especi al l y dangerous to thri -kreen, who can be dri ven mad by i ts effect. Al l
thri-kreen in the area of effect must save versus spells or revert to their primal
i nsti ncts. Affected thri -kreen i mmedi atel y dash out i nto the wastel ands to hunt,
feroci ousl y hunti ng al l that moves (wi th the excepti on of any cl utchmates). Thi s
berserk fury lasts for 24 hours.
Suggested Powers The Psionatrix also has the following psionic powers, all at
25th l evel of abi l i ty: al l around vi si on when hel d, bl i nk (3/day), di spl acement f or
one hour (1/day), proj ect f orce (1/day), and protecti on from magi c for one hour
(1/day).
Random Powers These powers are to be used instead of the suggested powers
above: three results from Table 23: Psionic PowersDevotions, one result from
Table 24: Psionic PowersSciences, and one result from Table 25: Protection.
PslonalrlxLesser Verslon
Const ant Powers After bei ng shattered wi th the water hammer i n the adventure
Dragon s Crown, a smal l porti on of the arti fact s power survi ved. Any creature wi th
psi oni c powers that comes i nto contact wi th the Psi onatri x fragmented can tap on
a reserve of 100 PSPs in a 24 hour period. The possessor of the shattered
Psionatrix also has access to the psionic the attack form ego whip, and the defense
form mind blank, which can be used at will. If the artifact is drained of PSPs, then
the possessors points can be used to fuel these powers.
Invoked Powers The psionic dampening field of the Psionatrix is far inferior fol-
l owi ng i ts shatteri ng. Once per week the Psi onatri x can i nhi bi t al l psi oni c acti vi ty
in a 100 yard radius for 1d2+2 turns. While this psionic interference field is in
effect, the cost of all psionic powers is tripled. This version of the Psionatrix is no
l onger debi l i tati ng to thri -kreen, though the creatures sti l l feel di scomfort whi l e
it the area of effect.
Suggested Powers The Psionatrix also has the following powers, all at 15th level
psi oni c abi l i ty: al l around vi si on when hel d, bl i nk (3/day), di spl acement for one
hour (1/day), and protecti on from magi c for one hour (1/day).
Random Powers These powers are to be used instead of the suggested powers
above: two results from Table 23: Psionic PowersDevotions, and one result from
Table 25: Protections.
The only known means to destroy the Psionatrix is with the water hammer
devi ce. One use of the hammer on the arti fact reduces i t to a l ess powerful devi ce,
while a second use destroys it.
25
The Scorcher
The Scorcher was created by Rajaat at the same time as the Silencer
of Bodach, and is a massive long sword. The Scorcher is construct-
ed of the same uni denti fi abl e red al l oy as the Si l encer, and i s much
harder than enchanted steel . The Scorcher s bl ade i s perfectl y
smooth, and the hi l t contai ns a red gl owi ng rune i denti cal to that of
the Si l encer. The hi l t i s constructed of unbreakabl e obsi di an,
wrapped i n the hi de of an anci ent fi re drake. The pommel i s a tooth
from sai d fi re drake, and i ts poi nt i s razor sharp. When used i n com-
bat, ebony, fl ames appear from the bl ade and burn opponents wi th
cold, black, fire.
The l ong sword i s amazi ngl y l i ght and wel l bal anced, and al l but
the most feebl e or di mi nuti ve warri ors can wi el d i t. The Scorcher
i s too l arge for hal fl i ngs to wi el d properl y.
Hlslory
When Raj aat pl anned the Cl eansi ng Wars 4,000 years
ago, the great defi l er warl ord crafted three mi ghty weapons to be gi ven
to hi s most favored champi ons. The Si l encer was gi ven to the l eft-hand
of Raj aat, a warl ord named Iri kos, who was l ater ki l l ed after destroy-
i ng the ci ty of Bodach. The second weapon, a l ong sword cal l ed
Scorcher, was gi ven to the ri ght-hand of Raj aata warl ord
named Myr on who l at er became known as Myr on t he Tr ol l
Scorcher, 4th Champi on of Raj aat. And the thi rd was the Scourge,
whi ch was gi ven to Borys of Ebe. Wi th the Si l encer l ost fol l owi ng
Iri kos death, Raj aat rel i ed heavi l y on Myron duri ng hi s war wi th
the preservers of Athas, and wi th the hel p of the Scorcher
Raj aat succeeded. Next came the Cl eansi ng Wars.
As the terri bl e wars agai nst the races of Athas ensued, Myron
of Yorum began to questi on the moral i mpl i cati ons of Raj aat s
i ntenti ons. Perhaps the warl ord di scovered Raj aat s goal of returni ng
Athas to a Bl ue Age, and real i zed that the Champi ons woul d al so
be sl ai n. In the end, Myron s treachery was di scovered by Raj aat
and he was sl ai n and r epl aced by Hamanuwho became t he
new 4th Champi on of Raj aat and wi el der of the Scorcher.
The Scorcher remai ned i n Hamanu s possessi on for years, and
was the brade used by the sorcerer-ki ng of Uri k to deal the
death-blow to Dregoth, the Ravager of Giants. Shortly after killing
3rd Champi on of Raj aat, Hamanu l ost the Scorcher i n the Si l t Sea
near Giustenal. It is believed that the assassins of Dregoth witnessed
how easily the Scorcher slew the king of Giustenal, and it was
agreed that this weapon of Rajaat could pose a threat to them some
dayand was better off lost to all of Athas. All traces of the
Scorcher were removed from the land, as the sorcerer-kings did
not wish their subjects to know of a weapon capable of killing
them.
The l ong sword remai ned at the bottom of the Sea of Si l t for
many cent ur i es, unt i l bei ng acci dent al l y swal l owed by a si l t
horror. Later, the horror was ki l l ed when i t rai ded the shores of
the vi l l age of Croml i n and the arti fact was retri eved from i ts
gul l et by an ex-gl adi ator named Vorr. Wi th the power of the
Scorcher, Vorr sl ew dozens of sl ave rai ders from Draj , Raam, and
Ni benay, before supposedl y bei ng ki l l ed by a ni ghtmare beast i n
the Val l ey of Trevai n.
26
Campalgn Use
The Scorcher is a weapon capable of killing the most powerful of Athas creatures-
a sorcerer-king. Unlike the Silencer, the Scorcher is a more elegant weapon that
relies on its vast array of unique abilities to achieve its end. Because of Myrons
powerful influence the Scorcher is considered neutral in alignment, causing it to
be driven by whatever its possessor desires most. If the wielder of the Scorcher is
intent on killing innocent villagers, the sword lends its power to the gruesome task.
If the wielder wishes the death of a sorcerer-king, then the Scorcher wants nothing
more than to once again drink the blood of Rajaats champions.
The attitude of the Scorcher is not one of good or evil, but of purpose. The
Scorcher is not a weapon that will ever hang on someones trophy wall. If the
Scorcher is ever without a purpose it is either lost by the wielder, or it summons
someone within a 30 mile radius that would have use of its powers in some sort of
campaign. This challenger fights the wielder of the sword for its possession, and the
Scorchers powers do not work for the idle possessor.
The Scorchers whereabouts since Vorrs death are unknown. Rumor has it that the
blade can be found in the lair of a nightmare beast that slew Vorr, though this is
speculation by the only witness to the incident.
Povers
Constant Powers The Scorcher is a long sword that can easily be wielded as a one-
or two-handed weapon. The artifact is a weapon of +3 enchantment, and has the
weapon speed of a short sword when wielded by someone with a Strength greater
than 17. The blade radiates a cold, ebony fire when drawn for combat, and contact
with the flame causes an additional 1d4 damage to any struck by the weapon. The
possessor of the Scorcher is immune to all mind-affecting spells, and imposes a -5 to
MTHAC0 rolls against mind-altering psionics. While the Scorcher is held in the pos-
sessors hand, they are immune to fire as if wearing a ring of fire resistance.
However, what truly makes the artifact deadly is that it ignores all magical protec-
tion in regards to armor class. Hence, an opponent with a bracers of defense AC 5
and a Dexterity of 17 would be armor class 7 against this mighty blade.
Certain special powers of the Scorcher depend solely on the alignment of the pos-
sessor. If the owner of the sword has a lawful alignment (good, neutral, or evil), then
the blade functions as a vorpal weapon, severing the head of its victim on a modi-
fied die roll of 20 or greater. If the wielder of the Scorcher is neutral in alignment
(good, evil, or true neutral), then the blade functions as a sword of wounding that
causes wounds to heal at half the normal rate. If the possessor of the blade is chaotic
(good, neutral, or evil), then the blade functions as a sword of sharpness. Against
huge or gigantic creatures (ones without heads or limbs to sever), the Scorcher deals
doubl e weapon damage.
Suggested Powers The Scorcher bestows the possessor with the following powers
at 20th level of ability: blur while the artifact is in hand, slay living upon opponent
struck (1/week), true seeing (1/day), wall of fire (1/day), cast cure serious wounds
upon wi el der (3/day), and a constant protecti on from good/evi l .
Random Powers These powers are used instead of the suggested powers above:
two results from Table 3: Combat, one ability from Table 6: Detection, one ability
from Table 9: Elemental Fire, one ability from Table 14: Healing, and one ability
from Table 22 Personal Enhancement.
Curse The wielder of the Scorcher remains focused on an individual purpose,
regardless of its implications to friends or family. Nothing matters but the endeavor
at hand. In addition, a random curse befalls the possessor (roll on Table 5: Curses),
different for every owner of the sword.
Strike the weapon against the Silencer of Bodach, shattering both blades.
The blade is consumed by a water drake.
27
Scourge of Rkard
The Scourge of Rkard is a great bastard sword created thousands of years ago by
Rajaat. The steel of this sword is like no other, having an almost ivory sheen, and
its polished surface is as reflective as the finest mirror. The pommel of the Scourge
i s wrapped i n the hi de of a ni ghtmare beast, and the tang i s engraved wi th anci ent
symbol s of power.
Hlslory
The Scourge of Rkard (originally called the Scourge) is the third of the
three great swords created by Raj aatthe other two bei ng the Scorcher
and the Si l encer. Rajaat gave the Scourge to hi s 13th champi on, Borys
of Ebe, to be used in his crusade to eliminate the dwarves from the face
of Athas. The Scourge drank the blood of many, and soon the Butcher of Dwarves
was met by Rkard, the l ast and most powerful of the dwarven ki ngs. In the terri -
bl e confl i ct that fol l owed Borys buri ed the sword deep wi thi n Rkard s chest,
earning it the name the Scourge of Rkard thereafter.
As the champi ons of Raj aat pl anned to rebel agai nst thei r master, Borys l ost
the Scourge of Rkard, and i t somehow ended up i n the hands of survi vi ng
dwarves of Kemal ok. Over the centuri es that fol l owed, the Scourge was kept i n
the tomb of Rkard unti l the day that i t was needed to defend the dwarves from
the ravaging of Borys of Ebe.
Fol l owi ng the death of Ki ng Kal ak, Ri kus came to the dwarves of Kemal ok
to enl i st thei r ai d i n defendi ng Tyr from the approachi ng army of Uri k. For
agreei ng to hel p retri eve the stol en Book of Kemal ok Ki ngs, Ri kus was
decl ared a kni ght of Kemal ok and gi ven both the Scourge of Rkard and the
Belt of Kings to help him in the arduous battles that were ahead. Though
the Book of Kemal ok Ki ngs was not recovered, the Uri ki an army was
repel l ed and both Kemal ok and Tyr were safe. Ri kus returned the Bel t of
Kings to the dwarves, but was given the the Scourge of Rkard by the dwar-
ven elder Lyanius as a reward for his struggles.
Duri ng the fol l owi ng decade, Ri kus used the powers of the Scourge to
help defend Tyr and the rest of the Tablelands from the ravages of the
Dragonotherwi se known as Borys of Ebe. After Raj aat was rel eased
from hi s pri son Ri kus found hi msel f i n mortal combat wi th Borys, wi th
hi s onl y weapon the Scourge of Rkard. In the battl e that fol l owed,
Rikus drove the Scourge deep into the snout of the Dragon, and as a
result of the creatures subsequent thrashing Rikus snapped the blade
i n two. The bl ade that remai ned i mpal ed i n the Dragon began to ooze
a bl ack i chor whi ch eventual l y consumed and ki l l ed Borys. The two
pieces of the Scourge of Rkard were left at the Ring of Fire following
Raj aat s defeat, and are now guarded by powerful wards pl aced on
the area by Sadira of Tyr.
Campalgn Use
The Scourge of Rkard is a powerful weapon that can be used by
ei ther the forces of good or evi l , whi chever happens to have pos-
session of it at the time. The Scourge was in the possession of
Rikus for nearly a decade, and it is possible characters may have
come i nto contact wi th the bl ade i f they were fami l i ar wi th the
ex-gl adi ator mul . It i s unl i kel y that Ri kus woul d have parted
with the Scourge, since he felt it to be the supreme gift from
dwarves.
Like many of the events in the Prism Pentad novels, the final
fate of the Scourge of Rkard coul d be di fferent dependi ng on a
DM s campai gn. Shoul d Ri kus have been ki l l ed defendi ng Tyr or
i n battl e agai nst Hamanu (who was not affected by the Scourge s
28
powers), it might be up to the player characters to recover the sword and use it to
sl ay the Dragon. However, i f a DM s campai gn di d fol l ow the destructi on of the
Dragon and the shattering of the Scourge, then retrieving it from the Ring of Fire
woul d al most certai nl y attract the unwanted attenti on of Sadi ra of Tyr and her
allies.
Povers
Constant Powers The Scourge of Rkard is a two-handed bastard sword, though it
can be wielded with one hand if the user has a 20 or greater Strength and stands
over six feet in height. The weapon is +4 to hit and damage, +6 versus champions
of Rajaat. The Scourge is also able to damage creatures of the Shadow World,
i nfl i cti ng doubl e damage per stri ke. In addi ti on, the Scourge i s a vorpal weapon
(as per Appendix 3 of the DUNGEON MASTER Guide). The Scourge can cut through
wood as easi l y as a kni fe through butter, and al l obsi di an weapons that come i nto
contact wi th the arti fact shatter. Enchanted obsi di an recei ves a savi ng throw versus
crushing blow to avoid this effect.
The Scourge of Rkard also enhances the hearing of the possessor. Upon com-
mand the sword can increase its possessors hearing 100 fold, giving them the
ability to hear noises up to a mile away if necessary. Additionally, if the Scourge is
broken (whi ch has occurred twi ce i n recent hi story), the two pi eces can mend
themsel ves i f hel d together for a peri od of one month. Duri ng thi s ti me none of
the sword s powers functi on. Whi l e two broken pi eces of the sword are apart, each
pi ece i ssues a bl ack i chor. Anythi ng that comes i nto contact wi th thi s ooze i s con-
sumed by i t, eventual l y di ssol vi ng i nto nothi ngness. Thi s ooze can onl y be
removed i f fi re i s appl i ed to i t wi thi n one mi nute of exposure.
Invoked Powers Once per day the wielder of the Scourge of Rkard can rally his
al l i es by hol di ng the sword hi gh i n the ai r pri or to enteri ng battl e. Those vi ewi ng
this spectacle are inspired for the forth coming battle, gaining +2 on all to hit,
damage, and saving throw rolls until either the battle is over or the possessor of
the Scourge falls in battle.
Suggested Powers The Scourge of Rkard also has the following abilities pro-
duced at 25th l evel : functi ons as a ri ng of protecti on +2 when hel d, prevents the
possessor from ever becomi ng l ost, and grants the wi el der compl ete i mmuni ty to
poi son.
powers above: one ability from Table 13: Fate and Fortune, one ability from Table
15: Immunities, and one ability from Table 25: Protections.
Curse The power of the Scourge of Rkard is not without price. Should the pos-
sessor of thi s arti fact ever come i nto contact wi th one of the remai ni ng champi ons
of Rajaat, they must make a saving throw versus spells with a -5 penalty or attack
the champion outright. As far as the wielder of the Scourge is concerned, this is a
confrontati on to the death.
Addi ti onal l y, shoul d the Scourge ever agai n dri nk the bl ood of a dwarf, there i s
a chance that the sword s ori gi nal purpose-the destructi on of the dwarven
racewill be revived. For each dwarf that is slain by the Scourge of Rkard there is a
5% cumul ati ve chance that the possessor wi l l take up the one-ti me mantl e of
Borys of Ebe, and attempt to finish killing all the dwarves on Athas. Only the death
of the afflicted user can free them from this savage need to massacre the dwarven
race.
If nei ther of these curses are appropri ate for a DM s campai gn, then randoml y
generate three results from Table 5: Curses.
Bath it in the elemental waters that are now Rajaat.
Place it at the bottom of the Silt Sea for a decade.
Have it melted down by a dwarf with the purest of hearts.
29
TA8LE I: A81URATICNS
These powers primarily negate things, properties, and powers. Unlike offensive
spells, the powers here are not intended to destroy those things properly in their
place, but instead to remove enchantments, bindings, and the like that do not
bel ong.
1 d 2 0 P o we r
1 Cast abjure (3/day).
2 Cast avoidance between a creature and the user (1/day).
3 Cast protection from normal missiles (3/day).
4 Instantly dismiss an elemental (1/week).
5 Cast dismissal upon any planar creature by touch (1/week).
6 Cast dispel evil/dispel good (1/day).
7 Cast dispel magic by touch (1/day).
8 Cast hol y word/unhol y word (1/week).
9 Cast mi nd bl ank (1/week).
10 Cast i mpri sonment/freedom by touch.
11 Cast anti-magic shell (1/week).
12 Cast knock (3/day).
13 Cast merciful shadows (7/day).
14 Spell turning (as per ring) constantly in effect while the artifact is in hand.
15 Cast purify food & drink within a 10 radius of the artifact (7/day).
Arllfacl Random Povers Charls
16 Cast remove curse by touch (3/day).
17 Repel insects in a 10 radius constantly in effect while the artifact is in hand.
18 Cast repulsion upon one creature (1/week).
19 Dispel all illusions within a 60 radius (3/day).
2 0 Turn wood constantly in effect while the artifact is in hand.
See DARK SUN Campaign Setting (#2438)

TA8LE 2: CATACLYSMS
Cataclysms can never be intentionally called upon by the artifacts owner. They
occur at unplanned times. While a character might get lucky and trigger an incendi-
ary cloud just as gith storm the stronghold, the cataclysm effect takes no sides. Both
defenders and gith attackers are equally vulnerable to the artifacts vengeance; even
the artifacts owner is fair game. All of the cataclysms described here affect an area
one mile in diameter. Everything within that range is subject to the cataclysm.
1 d 2 0 P o we r
1 Cast acid storm to rain down upon the area of effect for two full turns.
2 Create a permanent aura of desolation that settles over the area of effect.
Individuals of good alignment are haunted by terrifying dreams and suffer -2
penalties to THAC0 and saving throw rolls while evil creatures gain +2 penal-
ties to the same. Plants twist and wither, crops fail, and herds grow sickly.
3 Bl anket the area wi th numbi ng col d, droppi ng temperatures to 0F and
inflicting 1d6 points of damage per hour to those unsheltered until sunrise.
4 Ravage the area of effect with call lightning for 72 hours (432 bolts), ran-
domly striking any targets.
5 Creates a cloudkill spell upon the area of effect for ld6 hours.
6 Form a ring of creeping doom around the area of effect that constricts in a
solid blanket inward, not diminishing until the center is reached (4 hours to
reach center).
7 Settle a death fog over the area of effect that remains in place for 2d20 rounds.
8 All water in the area of effect instantly evaporates.
30
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
Strike the area of effect with an earthquake spell.
Rain a fire storm down upon the area of effect for 2d6 rounds.
All vegetation for one mile suffers from defiler magic destruction.
Sweep an incendiary cloud through the entire area of effect.
Settle an insect plague upon the area of effect for Id6 hours that, in addi-
tion to other spell effects, destroys all vegetable matter.
Instantly create a permanent magic-dead area of effect. Nonartifactual
magical items do not function within the zone, spellcasting is impossible,
and all existing spells are instantly negated, including permanent enchant-
ments on creatures.
Create a meteor swarm to rain down upon the area of effect for Id12 hours
(8 spheres/round, or 480/hour), randomly striking targets within the area of
effect.
All dead humanoids for one mile rise from the dead as zombies and attack
the l i vi ng.
All magical items in the area of effect are destroyed.
All living creatures in the area of effect must save versus poison or die.
Area is effected by a transmute rock to mud spelI.
All living creature in the area of effect are victims of a ray of enfeeblement
spell (save applicable).
TA8LE 3: CCM8AT
The powers of this table are associated with weapons and generally give advantages
to their owner in melee combat. These powers are different from those found on
Table 23: Personal Enhancement, which alter the possessors own abilities and
scores. The powers here are effective only when the artifact itself is used as a
weapon.
1d20 Power
1 Cause paral yzati on by touch (3/day).
2 Provi de i ni ti ati ve each combat round.
3 Have blur constantly in effect while the artifact is in hand.
4 Cast fleet feet (3/day).
5 Provide double attacks per round.

6 Cast energy drain by touch (1/week).
7 Cast fire shield (1/day).
8 Cause an opponent to fumble (7/day).
9 Cause an opponent to suffer from slow (3/day).
10 Imbue the user with skills with all weapons, regardless of class.
11 Cast harm (reverse of heal) upon an opponent struck by the weapon
(1/week).
12
13
14
15
16
Cast i mproved i nvi si bi l i ty (1/day).
Cast mirror image (7/day).
Imbue the user with combat skills with two weapons at no penalty.
Gains combat mind while in battle (3/day).
Cast slay living (reverse of raise dead) upon an opponent struck by the
weapon ( 1/ week) .
17 Imbue the user with all benefits of weapon specialization.
18 Cast strength upon the user (3/day).
19 Function as a vampiric regeneration ring.
20 Cast time stop (1/month).
See Defilers and Preservers (#2445)

3I
TA8LE 4: CCN1URATICN/SUMMCNINC
The powers on this table relate to the ability to summon creatures or objects from
other places or to create things out of thin air.
1d20 Power
1 Cast aerial servant (1/week).
2 Cast grease (3/day).
3 Cast animal summoning l-lll with the user choosing the type of creature
summoned (1/day).
4 Cast animate object (1/day).
5 Cast call lightning (1/week).
6 Cast a conjure lesser elemental spell of the users choice (1/week).
7 Cast flame arrow (3/day).

8 Cast fabricate (1/day).
9 Call upon Leomunds secret chest at any time, using the chest to store the
arti fact when not needed.
10 Cast maze (1/week).
11 Cast monster summoning I-VII with the user choosing the type of monster
summoned (1/week).
12 Cast prismatic sphere (1/week).
1 3 Cast power word, bl i nd (1/week).
14 Summon a random gi ant (uncontrol l ed) (1/week).
1 5 Summon an i nvi si bl e stal ker (1/week).
1 6 Cast summon shadow (1/week).
1 7 Inscribe a symbol of the users choice (1/week).
1 8 Cast trap the soul upon a creature by touch (1/month).
19 Cast unseen servant to constantly be at hand and serve the user.
2 0 Cast weather summoni ng (1/week).
See Dragon Kings (#2408)

TA8LE 5: CURSES
These powers, unlike those on Table 2: Cataclysms, affect only the owner of the arti-
fact. Once a curse is triggered, the presence of the artifact is not important, since the
effect centers on the character and not the item. Most curses end when the character
voluntarily surrenders the artifact, whether it is given up, lost, or stolen.
1d20
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
Power
Instantly pollutes all water within 30 of the user.
Reduce the users Charisma by 1d4 points.
Inflict a -1 penalty on the users saving throws vs. magic.
Inflict a -2 penalty on the users saving throws vs. poison.
Cause the users touch to rot away wooden items the size of a club or less
in 1d4 days.
Cause the users touch to kill plants (inflicts Id6 points of damage to plant-
based creatures).
Cause NPC reactions to the user to be never better than neutral.
Inflict insatiable hunger upon the user, who must eat a full meal once
every waki ng hour.
Instantly change the gender of anyone handling the artifact for the first
t i me.
Inflict deafness upon the user, who can only hear voices at a shout.
Inflict an incurable disease upon the user. At the start of each month a sav-
ing throw vs. death must be made to avoid losing 1 point of Constitution.
When the users Constitution reaches 0, death occurs.
Cause the users touch to have a 50% chance of draining the magic from
any nonarti fact i tem.
32
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
Inflict 5d10 points of damage upon anyone handling the artifact for the
first time.
User must drink a daily compliment of water each time the artifact is used
or lose points of Constitution.
Age the user 1d10 years each time the artifact is used. Although the user
suffers all the effects of aging, death by old age is not possible as long as
the artifact is possessed.
Causes the user to unable to use psionics as long as the artifact is in their
possession.
Cause the users touch to be poisonous (successful saving throw vs. poison
or 2d12 points of damage are inflicted).
Inflict photosensitivity upon the user, who suffers a -1 penalty to all die
rol l s whi l e out i n dayl i ght.
Cause the users personal possessions to gradually disappear as if lost. Little
things disappear first, then larger possessions, until the user is stripped of
al l worl dl y goods.
Cause the user to become forgetful, starting with small details and pro-
gressing until full amnesia occurs.
TA8LE 6: DETECTICN
These powers are oriented toward finding and discovering things hidden, but not
necessarily unknown. Thus, the table includes the power to detect poison, but not
that of foreseeing the future. Learning what is not normally revealed, such as align-
ment, is covered on Table 7: Divination. Unless otherwise noted, these powers are
in effect whenever the artifact is held or worn.
1d20
1
2
3
Power
Provide a +1 bonus to the users surprise rolls while the artifact is in hand.
Imbue the user with all benefits of the appraisal proficiency.
Have comprehend languages constantly in effect while the artifact is in
hand.
4 Have detect charm constantly in effect while the artifact is in hand.
5 Cast detect evil/detect good (3/day).
6 Detect illusions (3/day).
7 Cast detect invisibility (3/day).
8 Cast detect magic (3/day).
9 Cast detect poison (3/day).
10 Have detect snares & pits constantly in effect while the artifact is in hand.
11 Detect stonework traps when hel d.
12 Cast detect undead (3/day).
13 Cast detect psionics (3/day).
14 Cast watchfire (3/day).
15 Cast find traps (1/day).

16 Have infravision constantly in effect while the artifact is in hand.
17 Cast locate object (3/day).
18 Cast true seeing (1/day).
19 Cast wizard eye (3/day).
20 Cast defiler scent (3/day).
See Earth, Air, Fire, and Water (#2422)

33
TA8LE 7: DIVINATICN
Di vi nati ons are the counterpart of detecti ons, reveal i ng thi ngs unknown or uncer-
tain. Unlike most detections, these powers tend to reveal intangiblesthings that
cannot and could never have been seen without the aid of the power. In most cases
the artifact must be touched to the desired target of the power.
1d20 Power
1 Cast analyze balance by touch (7/day).
2 Cast augury (3/day).

3 Permit the user to commune with a deity associated with the artifact. Any
question about the artifact or its powers will not be answered (1/week).
4 Cast consequence (1/day).
5 Cast true seeing (1/day).

6 Cast detect lie upon any creature within 10 (3/day).
7 Cast detect scrying (1/day).
8 Cast divination (1/day).
9 Cast speak with water (1/day).
10 Cast ESP by touch (3/day).

11 Cast find the path (1/day).
12 Cast foresight (1/week).
13 Cast identify by touch (1/day).
14 Cast know alignment by touch (3/day).
15 Cast slave scent (7/day).
1 6 Cast clues of ash (3/day).
17 Cast black cairn by touch (3/day).
18 Cast personal reading upon a creature by touch with no knowledge of

birth or other information required (3/day).
19 Cast read magic by touching the artifact to written material (3/day).

2 0 Cast stone tell by touch (3/day).
See Tome of Magic (#2121)
See Earth, Air, fire, and Water (#2422)

TA8LE 8: ELEMENTAL AIR
These powers grant knowledge of or control over the elemental forces of Air. Most
function identically to the spell of the same name. Some are activated by the touch
of the artifact while others transfer their power to the wielder.
1d20 Power
1 Cast aerial servant (1/week).
2 Cast cloud of purification (2/day).
3 Cast cl oudki l l (1/day).

4 Cast conjure air elemental (1/week).
5 Cast control winds (3/day).
6 Cast silt tides (1/week).
7 Have feather fall constantly in effect while the artifact is in hand.

& Cast fly (3/day).
9 Cast silt cyclone (1/week).
10 Cast gust of wind (5/day).

11 Cast solidfog (1/day).
12 Cast stinking cloud (3/day).
13 Cast wall of fog (3/day).
14 Cast curse of tongues (7/day).
15 Cast wind walk (1/day).

16 Cast wind wall (1/day).
17 Cast mark of the hunted (1/week).
18 Open a portal to the Elemental Plane of Air. The passage can be traversed in
both directions and remains open for 1 hour. Any creature can use the portal.
19 Can ignore the presence of air as a 5th level cleric of air.
2 0 Send messages in a fashion similar to a whispering wind. The user need
only know the name of the recipient before whispering a message to the
sky. The users voice will reach its target within 24 hours, if that person is
on the same plane (at will).

34
TA8LE 9: ELEMENTAL EARTH
Open a portal to the Elemental Plane of Earth. The passage can be traversed
both ways and remains open for 1 hour. Any creature can use the portal.
These powers grant knowledge of or control over the elemental forces of Earth.
1d20 Power
1
2
Cast animate rock by touch (1/day).
Imbue the user with the ability to appraise gems and jewelry as long as the
artifact is in the users possession.
Cast conjure lesser earth elemental (1/week).
Imbues with the power eliminate tracks, as an earth cleric (3/day).
Imbue the user with the ability to detect gems while the artifact is in hand.
Gains +2 on all saving throws versus earth-based spells.
Cast earthquake (1/month).
Cast curse of the black sand/silt by touch (3/day).
Cast flesh to stone by touch (1/day).

Imbue the user with the gem cutting proficiency.
Cast meld into stone (3/day).
Cast move earth (1/week).
Cast passwall (1/day).
Cast glass storm (1/week).
Cast stone shape (3/day).

Cast thorns of binding (1/day).
Cast stoneskin (1/day).

Cast transmute rock to mud (1/day).
Cast wall of stone (1/day).
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20

TA8LE I0: ELEMENTAL FI RE
5
6
Cast chariot of sustarre (1/week).
Cast conjure fire elemental (1/week).
Cast delayed blast fireball (1/day).
Imbue the user with the ability to breathe a cone of fire 30~ IO, inflicting
Id6 points of damage per level (1/day).
Cast create smoke (3/day).
Imbue the user with the ability to assume the form of a small fire elemen-
tal, changing body and possessions into flame. All within 5 suffer 2d6
points of damage each round (successful saving throw vs. spell halves) and
the users physical blows inflict 2d8 points of damage per hit. The user is
immune to all types of fire. The form lasts 2d6 rounds.
Cast fire shield (1/day).
Cast fireball (3/day).
Cast fireflow (3/day).
Cast flame strike (1/day).

Cast flame walk (3/day).
Cast watchfire (1/day).
Can ignore the presence of fire as a 5th level cleric of fire.
Cast light (3/day).

Cast spirit of flame (1/week).
Have protection from fire constantly in effect while the artifact is in hand.
Imbue the user with the ability to sculpt normal fire by hand (no damage
suffered). The fire can be fashioned into any shape the user is capable of
making, but does not gain any special powers because of this. Sculpted fire
holds its form for Id6 turns before reverting to normal.
Cast sunray (1/day).
Cast wall of fire (1/day).
Open a portal to the Elemental Plane of Fire. The passage can be traversed
These powers grant knowledge of or control over the elemental forces of Fire.
1d20 Power
1
2
3
4
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
2 0
See Earth, Air, Fire, and Water (#2422) See Tome of Magic (#2121)
35
TA8LE II: ELEMENTAL VATER
These powers grant knowledge of or control over the elemental forces of Water.
1d20
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
2 0
Power
Cast airy water (3/day).
Cast cone of cold (1/day).
Cast conjure water elemental (1/week).
Cast soothe (3/day).
Cast create water (1/day).

Cast ice storm (1/day).
Shoot a watery blue beam at a single target. If struck, the target must roll a
successful saving throw vs. death. If the saving throw is failed, the target is
slain as it melts into a puddle of ooze. If the save is successful, the target
still suffers 2d8 points of damage. This power is not effective on water-based
creatures or those that lack solid structure (puddings, oozes, etc.) (1/day).
Cast lungs of water (1/day).
Cast curse of the choking sands by touch (3/day).
Cast conjure lesser water elemental (1/day).
Cast circle of life (3/day).
Can ignore the presence of water as a 5th level cleric of water.
Render any small body of water into a reflecting pool (1/day).

Imbues the user with body of water, as per a 5th level cleric of water (1/day).
Cast create oasis (1/month).
Cast wall of ice (1/day).

Imbue the user with water breathing while the artifact is in hand.
Imbue the user with the abilities of water walk while the artifact is in hand.
Imbues with the ability spark of life, as per 7th level water cleric (1/day).
Open a portal to the Elemental Plane of Water. The passage can be traversed
See Earth, Air, Fire, and Water (#2422) See Dragon Kings (#2408)
TA8LE I2: ENCHANTMENT/CHARM
The powers on this table are charms, holds, suggestions, and other abilities to influ-
ence the mi nds of creatures. Most operate di rectl y through the arti fact-the owner
must present the device boldly when activating the power. The targets are then possi-
bly entranced by the power radiating from the artifact.
1d20 Power
1 Increase the users Charisma score by 3, with the enhancement only affect-
ing the opposite gender. The user need not present the artifact, but the
power vanishes when the artifact is no longer possessed.
2 Imbue the user with the effects of animal friendship while the artifact is in hand.
3 Cast charm monster (1/day).
4 Cast charm person (2/day).
5 Cast charm plants (5/day).
6 Cast cloak of bravery/cloak of fear (2/day).
7 Cast command (7/day).
8 Cast confusion (1/day).
9 Cast demand (1/week).
10 Cast domi nati on (1/week).
11 Cast emotion (1/day).
12 Imbue the users gaze with the effects of cause fear (reverse of remove fear)
while the device is in hand.
13
Cast feebl emi nd by touch (1/week).
1 4
Cast forget by touch (3/day).
15
Cast geas by touch. The mission must relate to the goals of the artifact, if
any (1/month).
16 Cast hold person (1/day).
17 Cast hypnotism (1/day).
18 Cast Ottos irresistible dance by touch (1/day).
19 Cast chimes of finding (1/week).
2 0 Cast suggestion (3/day).

36
TA8LE I3: FATE AND FCRTUNE
This table is a collection of powers where the user benefits from good fortune. Some
powers are straightforward, many are unusual, and a few are quite potent. These
powers tend to be automatic as long as the user possesses the artifact.
1d20
1
2
3
4
5
6
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
Power
Grant a +1 bonus to all of the users saving throw rolls.
Grant a +1 bonus to the users THAC0.
Grant a +1 or +10% bonus (assuming a high roll is good) to all instances
of dicing for a division of treasure, including magical items (but not other
artifacts). This bonus is mandatory and cannot be declined by the user.
Permanentl y i mbue the user wi th al l knowl edge of the gambl i ng profi ci en-
cy. If the user is already is proficient in gambling, the ability score
i mproves by one poi nt.
Grant a +1 bonus to the users encounter reaction rolls.
Imbue the user with natural luck in combat, granting a +1 bonus to all sur-
prise rolls.
Grant a -1 bonus on all of the users initiative rolls.
Grant the user a change of luck. Once per game day, the player can
choose to have any si ngl e di e rol l rerol l ed-an attack rol l , damage rol l ,
resurrection survival roll, etc. The second roll is the actual result.
Grant the user incredible luck. Once per game week, the users player can
choose to al ter any si tuati on by nami ng an i ncredi bl e coi nci dence, as l ong
as it does not involve magical items or directly cause the death of a crea-
ture, and that event will occur. For example, an evil defiler could be made
to trip over her own robes in the middle of spellcasting, but could not be
made to fall off a cliff to her death.
Grant the users adventuring group automatic surprise (1/week).
Allow the user to always find suitable work, regardless of status or skills.
Prevent the user from ever being completely destitute. Should all of the
users funds be consumed, some lucky chance happens to provide just
enough to get by-a reward, coins in the street, a kind stranger, etc. The
amount found is never much, but it sees to basic needs.
If traveling upon the Silt Sea, the users craft will never be attacked by hop-
stile monsters.
Prevent the user from ever being the target of pick-pockets, thieves, house-
breakers, or con artists-except for those who are specifically after the arti-
fact. The power does not prevent general hold-ups by bandits and the like,
onl y i ndi vi dual thefts.
Cause merchants to never overcharge the user, always offering the best
deals.
Prevent the user from ever getting lost.
Allow the user to always sell goods at 50% greater than normal prices.
Prevent the user from ever going without water. If the user is unable to buy
or find water, some fortunate circumstance occurs to provide enough.
Cause the user to always appear innocent of crimes. The user is never sus-
pected or accused of a crime unless there is no other possibility. Even then,
plausible explanations cause a reaction roll to see if the story is accepted.
Cause all spells cast by the user to operate at maximum effect.
37
TA8LE I4: HEALINC
These powers undo the woes and harms of the world and make it a better place.
Most are triggered by a touch of the artifact to the person healed or cured. Only a
few are constantly in effect.
1d20
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
2 0
Power
Constantly provide the user with the benefits of accelerated healing (heals
at 3x the normal rate).
Cast aid (5/day).
Render one creature immune to specific element for one day (1/week).
Render one creature immune to a specific disease or poison for one week
(1/week).
Cast cure blindness or deafness (3/day).
Cast cure critical wounds (2/day).
Cast cure disease (3/day).
Cure insanity or restore the mind of one affected by feeblemind or similar
spells (1/week).
Cast cure light wounds (3/day).
Cast cure serious wounds (3/day).
Purge from a body the effects of any drug, including drunkenness (1/day).
Cast heal (1/day).
Grants the user the ability to regenerate 3 hit points per turn.
Restore hit points to the user by draining ld6 points from every other crea-
ture within 10. The drained points are added to the users but cannot
exceed the ori gi nal hi t poi nt total .
Cast neutralize poison (3/day).
Cast raise dead (1/week).
Cast regenerate (1/week).
Place a creature in stasis, halting all further decay and damage. The inert
body is immune to gases, fire, cold, or lack of oxygen, but can still be
harmed by physical attacks. Damage from these attacks is subtracted
immediately, but death does not occur until the stasis is lifted. No further
damage affects the body but all damage suffered and poisons still in the
system continue their normal course as soon as the stasis is ended. Only
willing targets can be placed in stasis and the effect lasts 1 week or until
the user of the artifact cancels it. (1/week).
Cause all healing spells applied to the user to be doubly effective.
Erase scars and other disfigurements caused by battle (at will).
38
TA8LE I5: IMMUNITIES
These powers are similar to those found on Table 26: Protections, preventing the
user of the artifact from coming to harm. Those found here, however, are much more
sweepingthese provide a complete shield to some effect. Unless otherwise noted,
i mmuni ti es are constantl y i n effect-the character need onl y have the arti fact at
hand to gain the benefit.
1d20
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
Power
Imbue the user wi th i mmuni ty to al l normal di seasescol ds, fl u, bl ack
death, even food poisoning. This does not include diseases caused by
spells or monsters.
Imbue the user with immunity to all magical diseases. While it offers no
protection from something as mundane as a cold or flu, the immunity does
work against diseases like rot and the results of cause disease spells.
Imbue the user with immunity to all forms of disease, both normal and
magi cal .
Imbue the user with immunity to magically caused fear.
Imbue the user with immunity to all forms of gas. The user must still
breathe, how ever, and so could suffocate or drown.
Imbue the user wi th i mmuni ty to charm- and hol d-based spel l s and
spel l -l i ke effects-except those caused by arti facts.
Imbue the user with immunity to missiles from magic missile spells.
Imbue the user with immunity to all forms of psionics.
Imbue the user with immunity to all magical mental attacks. The character
is still vulnerable to psionic attacks.
Imbue the user with immunity to all forms of paralysis, including all hold-
based spells, the results of web and entangle spells, and the like.
Imbue the user with immunity to cold temperatures as low as -50. Saving
throw rolls vs. magical cold gain a +2 bonus.
Imbue the user with a magic resistance of 20% or grant a 20% bonus to
any existing magic resistance.
Imbue the user with immunity to all forms of poison.
Imbue the user with immunity to normal fire and provide a +2 bonus to
saving throw rolls vs. all forms of magical fire.
Imbue the user with immunity to all forms of electrical attack.
Imbue the user wi th i mmuni ty to energy drai ni ng.
Imbue the user with immunity to illusions, always revealing these as shad-
owy forms. This power does not reveal anything where the physical form
has actually been changed, such as polymorphed objects or creatures.
Serve as a moral guide. Whenever the user intends something evil or
unl awful , the arti fact del i vers a powerful , numbi ng shock. No damage i s
taken, but the user is paralyzed for Id6 rounds. The shocks end when the
character gives up the intention or the temptation is gone. Note that this
power is only suitable for lawful good aligned artifacts.
Imbue the user wi th i mmuni ty to pol ymorph and shapechangi ng spel l s and
spelllike effects.
19
20
Imbue the user wi th i mmuni ty to petri fi cati on.
39
TA8LE: I6 MA1CR SPELL-LIKE PCVERS
The powers on this table are a collection of powerful spells, many of which do not
fit well into any other category. These powers must be invoked directly from the arti-
fact and work identically to the spells named.
1d100
1-3
4- 7
8- 10
11-13
14- 17
18- 20
21- 23
24- 26
27- 30
31- 33
34- 36
37- 40
41- 43
44- 46
47- 50
51-53
54-57
58- 60
61- 63
64- 67
68- 70
71-73
74- 76
77- 80
81- 83
84- 86
87- 90
91- 95
96- 00
Power
Cast doom l egi on (1/week).
Cast animate dead (1/day).
Cast blade barrier (1/day).
Cast cause critical wounds (reverse of cure critical wounds) (1/day).
Cast cause serious wounds (reverse of cure serious wounds) (3/day).
Cast control undead (3/day).
Cast control weather (1/day).
Cast destruction (reverse of resurrection) (1/week).
Cast forcecage (1/day).
Cast globe of invulnerability (1/day).
Cast harm (reverse of heal) (1/day).
Cast hold monster (2/day).
Cast rejuvenate (3/day).
Cast magic jar (1/day).

Cast mindshatter (1/week).
Cast vampiric youthfulness (1/month).
Cause ghoul-like paralysis by touch (3/day)

Cast protection from time (1/month).
Cast prismatic spray (1/day).

Cast resurrection (1/week).
Cast reverse gravity (1/day).
Cast shades (1/day).
Cast haste (2/day).
Cast telekinesis (3/day).
Cast time stop (1/week).
Cast memory wrack (1/day).
Cast wall of force (1/day).

Cast wall of thorns (1/day).
Cast wither (reverse of regenerate) (1/week).

TA8LE I7: MINCR SPELL-LIKE PCVERS
This table contains all of the minor powers that accompany many artifacts. All of
these powers function as the spells of the same names and only work when the arti-
fact is pointed at or touched to the target or area of effect.
1d100
1
2-3
4- 5
6- 7
8
9- 10
11
12-13
14-15
16
17- 18
19- 20
Power
Cast wakefulness (5/day).
Cast audible glamer (7/day).

Cast bless (7/day).
Cast burning hands (5/day).
Cast fleet feet (3/day).
Cast call upon faith (5/day).
Cast altruism (5/day).
Cast chill touch (5/day).

Cast color spray (5/day).
Cast contagion (3/day).
Cast continual darkness (reverse of continual light) (3/day).
Cast continual light (3/day).
40
21- 22 Cast control temperature, 10 radius (5/day).
23- 24 Cast create food and water (5/day).
25- 26 Cast curse (reverse of remove curse) (5/day).
27- 28 Cast dancing lights (5/day).
2 9 Cast darkness, 15 radius (3/day).
30 Cast dispel magic (3/day).
31 Cast dust devil (5/day).
32-33 Cast enlarge (3/day).
3 4 Cast enthrall (5/day).
35- 36 Cast Evards black tentacles (3/day).
37- 39 Cast faerie fire (5/day).
4 0 Cast fear (3/day).
41 Cast fire purge (5/day).
42- 43 Cast flame arrow (5/day).

44- 45 Cast flaming sphere (5/day).
4 6 Cast gaze reflection (3/day).
47- 48 Cast glyph of warding (3/day).
49- 50 Cast grease (7/day).
51-52 Cast hold animal (5/day).
53- 54 Cast hold plant (5/day).
55 Cast hypnotic pattern (3/day).
56- 57 Cast invisibility (3/day).
58 Cast levitate (5/day).
59- 60 Cast magic missile (5/day).
61 Cast morale (5/day).
62-63 Cast phantasmal force (3/day).

64 Cast phantasmal killer (3/day).
65- 66 Cast plant growth (5/day).
67- 68 Cast polymorph other (3/day).
69- 70 Cast music of the spheres (7/day).
71-72 Cast shadow monsters (3/day).

73- 74 Cast shocking grasp (5/day).
75 Cast shout (3/day).
76- 77 Cast silence, 15 radius (3/day).
78- 79 Cast sleep (5/day).
8 0 Cast slow (3/day).
81 Cast slow poison (7/day).
82 Cast spike growth (3/day).
83- 84 Cast stinking cloud (5/day).
85- 86 Cast stone shape (5/day).
87- 88 Cast sanctuary (5/day).
89- 90 Cast tongues (5/day).
91- 92 Cast trip (5/day).
93- 95 Cast vampiric touch (3/day).
96- 98 Cast web (5/day).
99- 00 Cast wizard lock (5/day).

4I
TA8LE I8: MCVEMENT
These powers enhance the ability to maneuver and travel quickly. Since most arti-
facts cannot carry the user, these powers are activated when the artifact is in hand.
1d20 Power
1 Cast air walk (2/day).
2 Cast blink (3/day).
3 Cast dimensional folding (1/day).
4 Imbue the user with double the normal overland movement rate as long as
the artifact is in hand.
5 Cast flame walk (3/day).
6 Cast fly (2/day).
7 Cast free action (1/day).
8 Cast haste (1/day).
9 Cast jump (5/day).
1 0 Cast pass without trace (3/day).
11 Cast passwall (1/day).
1 2 Cast rainbow (1/day).
1 3 Cast shadow walk (1/day).
14 Cast spider climb (3/day).
1 5 Cast teleport without error (1/day).
1 6 Cast transport via plants (3/day).
17 Cast water walk (5/day).
18 Cast wind walk (1/day).
19 Cast word of recall (1/day).
2 0 Cast wraithform (1/day).
TA8LE I9: CFFENSIVE PCVERS
These powers are coveted by players, due to their powerful punch. Unlike those
powers associated with Table 3: Combat, the ones listed here are not limited to
weapons or hand-to-hand combat. These powers must be triggered from the artifact
and most function as the spell of the same name.
1d20
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
2 0
Power
Cast age creature (1/day).
Cast Bigbys crushing hand (1/day).

Fire a black beam of death that causes 2d8 points of damage to any crea-
ture successfully hit. The beams range is 100 yards (5/day).
Cast cause critical wounds (reverse of cure critical wounds) (1/day).
Cast chain lightning (1/day).
Cast death fog (1/day).
Inflict an equal amount of damage upon any creature that inflicts
non-spel l damage upon the user.
Cast disintegrate (1/week).
Cast finger of death (1/week).
Cast fireball (1/day).
Cast flame strike (1/day).
Cast lightning bolt (1/day).
Cast mindshatter (1/day).
Cast power word, blind (1/day).

Cast power word, stun (1/day).
Cast power word, ki l l (1/week).
Cast shape change (1/week).
Cast suffocate (1/week).
Cast vanish (1/week).

Cast weird (1/week).
42
TA8LE 20: NATURE
The powers of this table are related to plants, animals, and weather. Most function as
spel l s. Other powers are expl ai ned bel ow.
1d20 Power
1 Have animal friendship constantly in effect as long as the artifact is in hand.
2 Cast animal growth (3/day).
3 Transfer one of a creatures powers to the user by touch. This can include
AC, movement, senses, or any noncombat special ability. The transfer lasts
1 hour and then fades (3/day).
4 Imbue the user with the ability to see through the eyes of any desert ani-
mal. The creature must be within sight and within 60 of the artifact at the
time of activation. The power lasts 1d3 turns (3/day).
5 Cast ani mal summoni ng Il l (2/day).
6 Cast call lightning (1/day).
7 Cast defensive harmony (1/day).
8 Cast charm plants (3/day).

9 Cast entangle (3/day).
10 Heighten one of the users senses keen hearing, infravision, superior
smell, etc., granting a +1 bonus to all surprise rolls.
11 Cast hold animal (3/day).
12 Have pass without trace constantly in effect as long as the artifact is in hand.
13 Cast plant growth (3/day).
14 Imbue the user with the ability to use speak with plants at will.
15 Imbue the user with the ability to use speak with animals at will.
16 Cast transport via plants (1/day).
17 Cast wall of thorns (1/day).
18 Cast warp wood (3/day).
19 Cast weather summoning (1/day).
2 0 Cast anti-plant shell (1/day).

TA8LE 2I: NECRCMANCY
These deadly powers are among the most hideous known for artifacts. All affect the
life-force of creatures. Unless otherwise noted, the artifact must touch the target for
the power to be effective.
1d20 Power
1 Cast animate dead (3/day).
2 Cast invisibility to undead (3/day).
3 Cast aid (5/day).
4 Cast finger of death (1/week).
5 Cast cause disease (reverse of cure disease) (1/day).
6 Cast cause blindness (reverse of cure blindness) (1/day).
7 Cast chill touch (3/day).
8 Cast contagion (2/day).
9 Cast control undead (2/day).
10 Cast death spell (1/week).
11 Cast energy drain (1/week).
12 Cast feign death (3/day).
13 Cast slay living (reverse of raise dead) (1/week).
14 Cast rei ncarnati on (1/week).
15 Imbue the user with the ability to use speak with dead at will, as long as
the artifact is in hand.
16
17
18
19
2 0
Cast summon shadow (1/week).
Transform the user into an undead creature. The user retains all original hit
points and abilities and gains the immunities of an undead creature. In
addition, the user is not affected by gasses or poisons that would harm a
living being. The condition lasts Id6 turns (1/day).
Cast restoration (1/week).
Cast vampiric touch (3/day).
Cast wither (reverse of regenerate) (1/week).
43
TA8LE 22: PERSCNAL ENHANCEMENT
Aside from the massive powers of artifacts, these are powers many characters dream
about-the undeserved rewards of si mpl y fi ndi ng an arti fact. Unl i ke many other
powers, those given here can be used virtually without restriction. Unless otherwise
stated, these powers last as long as the character owns the artifact and function at
will. A few are noted as permanent, remaining with the character even after the arti-
fact is gone. Permanent powers take effect as soon as the artifact is touched, but only
once per adventuring group (or until the owner is dead).
1d20
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
1 4
15
16
17
18
19
2 0
Power
Cast alter self.
Cast cl ai raudi ence.
Cast clairvoyance.
Have ani mal fri endshi p constantl y i n effect.
Provide the user with the effects of deep pockets, regardless of garb.
Imbue the user wi th i nvi si bi l i ty to undead.
Shi el d the user constantl y wi th protecti on from evi l /protecti on from good
(as appropriate to the artifact).
Regenerate 2 hit points per turn.
Cast feign death.
Cast friends.
Cast merciful shadows.
Provide the user with a permanent +1 bonus to saving throw rolls.

Permanently increase the users prime requisite score(s) by 1.
Permanently imbue the user with the ability to use comprehend languages.
Permanently imbue the user with protection from undead (as the scroll).
Permanently imbue the user with the ability to use speak with monsters.
Permanently imbue the user with the ability to use speak with animals.
Permanently imbue the user with the ability to use speak with plants.
Permanently imbue the user with the ability to use water breathing.
Permanently imbue the user with the ability to use ventriloquism.

TA8LE 23: PSICNIC PCVERSDEVCTICNS
The powers of this table grant psionic powers to the possessor of the artifact. These
powers are identical to normal psionic devotion, except they are usable a set num-
ber of times per day or constant effect instead of having a PSP cost. Consult The Way
of the Psionicist for the effect of the power. For Telepathic devotions. the artifact
must achieve contact with the victim first (skill score of 17).
1d20
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
2 0
Power
Al l -around vi si on whi l e arti fact i s i n hand.
Combat mind while the artifact is in hand.
Danger sense while the artifact is in hand.
Know direction while the artifact is in hand.
See magic while the artifact is in hand.
Molecular agitation for 1 turn (3/day).
Mol ecul ar mani pul ati on for 1 turn (3/day).
Absorb disease while artifact is in hand.
Displacement for one hour (1/day).
Enhanced strength for one hour (2/day).
Mind over body for one day (1/week).
Blink (3/day).
Dimensional door for 70 yards (1/day).
ESP for one turn (1/day).
Inflict pain by touch. Used for evil artifacts only (3/day).
Mind bar for one hour (3/day).
lnvisibility against up to five creatures (2/day).
Send thoughts to one target (3/day).
Suppress fear upon one target by touch (3/day).
Truthear upon one spoken phrase (7/day).
44
TA8LE 24: PSICNIC PCVERSSCIENCES
The powers of this table grant the most of powerful psionics to its possessor. These
powers are identical to normal psionic science, except they are usable a set number
of times per day or constant effect instead of having a PSP cost. Consult The Way of
the Psionicist for the effect of the power. For Telepathic sciences, the artifact must
achieve contact with the victim first (skill score of 17).
1d20 Power
1 Detection upon one item for up to one hour (1/day).
2 Obj ect readi ng upon one i tem for maxi mum effect (1/week).
3 Precogni ti on for one probabl e outcome (1/day).
4 True sight for one turn (1/day).
5 Det onat e upon one obj ect (1/day).
6 Di si ntegrate upon one obj ect (1/week).
7 Project force upon one object (2/day).
8 Telekinesis upon to 100 pounds (2/day).
9 Telekinetic barrier 10-foot radius for two turns (1/day).
10 Compl ete heal i ng whi ch occurs i nstantaneousl y (1/week).
11 Death field which does not effect the possessorevil artifacts only (1/day).
12 Energy containment up to 50 points of damage while artifact is held (1/day).
13 Life draining for up to one turnevil artifacts only (2/day).
14 Teleport up to 100 miles without error (1/week).
15 Teleport other up to 100 miles without error (1/week).
16 Domination upon up to 10 levels or hit die of creature for up to 3 hours (3/day).
17 Mass domination upon up to 5 creatures not totaling more than 10 hit die
for three hours (1/day).
18 Mi ndwi pe upon one vi cti m by touch (1/day).
19 Superior invisibility up to one hour (2/day).
2 0 Ultrablast (1/week).
TA8LE 25: PRCTECTICNS
This table contains a collection of powers that enhance the safety of the artifacts
owner and, in some cases, any companions present. Unlike Table 16: Immunities,
not all of these powers are constant or 100% effective. Some function all the time,
some require the artifact to be in hand, and others must be invoked by the user.
1d20 Power
1 Grant an Armor Class bonus of 2 to the user when held.
2 Function as a ring of protection +2 when held.
3 Cast anti-magic shell (1/day).
4 Cast anti-plant shell (2/day).
5 Cast armor upon any creature the artifact touches (5/day).
6 Protect the user constantly with the effects of a feather fall spell.
7 Cast fire shield (1/day).
8 Generate a sphere of forbiddance, 15 in radius, centered on the artifact.
This forbiddance is not permanent (as is the spell), having a duration of
only 2d6 hours. It can be password locked, however (1/week).
9 Have mind blank in effect as long as the artifact is in hand.
10 Have negative plane protection constantly in effect as long as the artifact is
in hand, with no saving throw necessary.
11 Have non-defection constantly in effect as long as the artifact is in hand.
12 Have protection from normal missiles constantly in effect as long as the
artifact is in hand.
13 Have protection from lightning as long as the artifact is in hand.
14 Have protection from fire as long as the artifact is in hand.
15 Have protection from paralysis as long as the artifact is in hand.
16 Have shield in effect when the artifact is boldly presented (5/day).
17 Gains merciful shadows each day.
18 Cast protection from evil 15 radius (5/day).

19 Cast undead ward upon a 100 100 cube. The undead are turned as if
by an 18th level priest (1/week).
2 0 Cast zone of truth (1/week)
See DARK SUN Campaign Setting (#2438) See Tome of Magic (#2121)
45
Life shapes are the wondrous tools of our ancient past. They are our heritage, our
birthright. Cast off the dead. Use not the unliving tool. Our ancient glory can only
be restored by embracing life, not death.
We are all that is left. We hold in our hands the fate of our people. The Rhul-
thaun are the true fruit of the rhulisti tree. The life shapes are what set us above the
other races. Only we still know the secrets of life and how to shape it. Heed not the
temptations of the powers of the mind, for they are anathema. Spurn the lesser races
for they are not of the true blood. Believe in the life shapers, for only they can deliv-
er you to the glory that is our birthright.
Loi Far-oneth, Rhul-thaun of the Jagged Cliffs
Sages note: The rhulisti are the ancient halfling race. The halflings of today are their descendants.
The Rhul-thaun are a halfling subculture living in the Jagged Cliffs.
In the Blue Age of Athas, the rhulisti (ancient halflings), known as the Shapers of Life
worked with living material the way that a smith works with iron or a carpenter with
wood. The fruits of their labors were tools and machines that lived and grew and even
reproduced. Why make a shovel when you can make a living tool that will dig by itself?
Eventually the Blue Age came to an end. The other races developed powers of the
mind that matched and even exceeded the abilities of life shaping. The rhulisti lost
thei r domi nance and thei r ci vi l i zati on fel l i nto rui n. Exactl y how and why has been
lost in the sands of time.
One small enclave of rhulisti survived the end of the Blue Age. Hidden away on
the precarious Jagged Cliffs, the Rhul-thaun still practice the ancient ways. In the
eons since the passing of the Blue Age, the Rhul-thaun science of life shaping has
deviated and evolved from the old ways. Some would even say it has mutated.
The life-shaped that are truly descended from the Blue Age are different than
those created by the Rhul-thaun. They are not so different that they bear no resem-
blance, but different enough. If an item described in this book is different than the
same item in the Windriders of the Jagged Cliffs, it is because they are close cousins
but not i denti cal twi ns.
46
Deflnlng lhe Llfe-Shaped
The items described in this chapter are all alive, in one way or another. All of them
are descended from life-shaped items of the Blue Age. There are several ways these
items could have survived or reproduced from that time into your campaign. These
are covered in detail later.
Life-shaped items fall into three basic categories: products, tissues, and creatures.
Furthermore, the life-shaped function in four different ways, as tools, grafts, produc-
ers, or parasites. All the items described below are labelled with these categories.
All life-shaped tissues and creatures (but not products) have hit dice, hit points
and armor class. Creatures have all the characteristics of monsters. In general, man-
sized life-shaped have two hit dice. Smaller life-shaped have one or even just a half
a hit die, while larger life-shaped have as many as three hit dice. Armor classes
range from 8 to 4. Items intended to take severe punishment or stress (such as armor)
may have armor classes as high as zero. If the item is the direct target of an attack, it
uses its armor class, or that of the person carrying it, whichever is better. The life-
shaped intended for such stress do not suffer damage if used properly. However, they
tend to live half the normal span of their kind.
Direct exposure to disease requires the life-shaped item to make a saving throw,
in addition to any saving throw made by its owner. They may still use the better of
the two saving throw scores. Even without direct exposure, there is a 1% chance per
week that an item will contract a disease. Most ailments last for 1d10 days and cut
the effectiveness of the item in half. Weapons suffer a -2 penalty to attack rolls and
damage rolls. Armor loses two points. 10% of all diseases are fatal.
Producl
A product is not alive. It is the by-product of another creature. For example, the
small arrowhead gecko sheds large scales that are perfectly shaped arrow heads. The
arrowhead gecko is a life-shaped creature that was engineered to create arrow
heads. The arrow head itself is an organic product. Since it is not alive, a product
does not have a lifespan. With typical wear and tear, most products last for decades.
Products subject to high stress, such as the arrow heads mentioned above, may only
last a year or so. Products are always tools, never grafts, producers, or parasites.
Products cannot heal or be healed. They can only be repaired. Caring for a product
is no different than caring for any other object.
Tlssue
A tissue is alive, but cannot survive by itself. It must be tended and cared for, like an
exotic plant. The tissue has only those organs or cells necessary to perform its func-
tion. It rarely has sensory organs, any form of intelligence, mobility, or the ability to
reproduce. Tissues are tools, grafts, or parasites, though a few are producers.
Tissues are almost always found in a dormant stage. They can exist for centuries in
a form of hibernation. Once the tissue is ressuscitated, and is properly cared for, it
will live for one to two years. While tissue cannot reproduce, it is possible to take a
cutting from one and have it grow into a new tissue. The original techniques for
tissue growth are known only to the long dead rhulisti. Only characters with profi-
ciency in healing or agriculture, may try. Both the original tissue and the cutting
have a 60% chance of being killed by the procedure, if the proficiency check is suc-
cessful. Tissue cannot heal itself, but can be healed by spells.
A life-shaped tissue is the most difficult of all the life-shaped to care for. Since a
tissue cannot feed itself, its owner must feed it. Grafts draw sustenance directly from
t hei r hosts. Other types of tissues must be soaked in a special nutrient bath called
cam-rahn. The formula for cam-rahn is quite simple, with components that can be
easily purchased in any city. However, the character must first get the formula. One
dose of cam-rahn will feed one hit die of life-shaped tissue for one day. The compo-
nents to mix the cam-rahn cost 10cp per dose.
The tissue created by the Jagged Cliff halflings also need to be soaked in an oxy-
47
genati ng sol uti on. Wi l d ti ssues have mutated and adapted over the thousands of
years si nce they were abandoned by the rhul i sti . They can draw oxygen from the ai r
and a l i mi ted amount from water or cam-rahn sol uti ons.
Crealure
A creature is no different from any other life form. It could be written up as a mon-
ster, or described like a domesticated animal. However, life-shaped creatures were
designed to fulfill a single purpose. It was bred into them to do this one thing to the
exclusion of all else, even before self-preservation. Creatures can be tools, grafts,
producers, or even parasites.
Most of the creatures life-shaped by the rhulisti have the ability to reproduce,
although it has never successfully happened in captivity. Some types are sterile, but
most of those died out thousands of years ago for obvious reasons. The remaining
life-shaped creatures are not true to their ancestry. Hundreds of generations have
altered their nature somewhat. For example, todays life-shaped creatures now have
a self-preservation instinct. They will not risk their own lives foolishly or worthlessly.
It is even possible for them to turn on their owner. This does not mean that the crea-
ture will not perform risky or even highly dangerous acts relative to their original
design. Life-shaped creatures will heal one hit point per day, assuming that they are
allowed to rest for the bulk of that time.
The creatures described here are the common stock of life-shaped creatures. There
is a 10% chance that a given creature has mutated into a close relative of what is
described below. In that case, some aspect of its function has changed. It is up to the
DM to determine what, if anything, is different about the mutated life-shaped crea-
ture. Creatures life-shaped by the Rhul-thaun are always as described and never turn
on their owners. As a result, they are valued higher.
Life-shaped creatures not made by the Rhul-thaun halflings of the Jagged Cliffs
have adapted to life in the wild. They eat and drink like other animals. They do not
require the special nutrient solutions that the tissues need to survive. Most plants and
small insects. Few creatures were life-shaped to be carnivores. There are exceptions,
like the watchpack. A life-shaped creature has a life span of 3d4 years.
Tool
This is the most common form of the life-shaped. Tools are independent of the
owner, but still directly useful to him. A tool can be set aside, lost, forgotten, sold,
etc. Some tool creatures form bonds with their owners, but otherwise are no differ-
ent than a hammer or spear. Tools can be products, tissues, or creatures.
Crafl
To the typical Athasian, a graft is most odd. It actually becomes a part of the owners
body. The original rhulisti grafts could be removed and reattached at will. The Rhul-
thaun still make grafts that work this way, and are valued all above other wild grafts.
However, many wild grafts that are found today are far more aggressive. These mutat-
ed grafts attack the hosts flesh, bonding in an extremely painful manner. Once
attached they cannot be removed with causing severe pain and even permanent dam-
age to the host. Fortunately, grafts that die of age or disease fall off harmlessly, just as
their predecessors did. Grafts can be tissues or creatures, but never products.
A graft cannot be overlapped with another graft on the same host body. It will just
refuse to attach to the host. For example, if a graft is meant to cover a hosts forearm,
he cannot have another graft that attaches to the forearm, elbow or wrist. This
assumes that the second graft overlaps a bit onto the forearm.
Some grafts decrease the Charisma of their host. Since the graft becomes a part of
the hosts body, the host looks more and more alien as he adds grafts to his body.
After a while, he is so alien that adding more grafts will no longer affect his
Charisma. A hosts Charisma cannot drop more than eight points due to grafts. His
Chari sma wi l l never drop bel ow three.
Grafts were created by the rhulisti, for the rhulisti. Since the rhulisti are the
48
ancient ancestors of the halflings, all grafts will accept a halfling as a host.
Unfortunately, this is not true of the other races. Thri-kreen, for example, cannot use
grafts at all. The table below gives the percentage chance of a character of any
given race being able to use a particular graft.
% Chance of the graft % Chance of the graft
Race accepting the host Race accepting the host
Aar akocr a 3 0 Human or Pyreen 70
Dwar f 9 0 Mu l 8 0
Elf 8 0 Pterran 10
Hal f -el f 75 Thri -kreen 0
Hal f-gi ant 2 0 Ot her 0
Hal f l i ng 100
A graft actually taps into the hosts body, feeding from his blood stream, sensing
with his nervous system, etc. A graft can react instantly to any situation because it
is hooked into the hosts own nervous system. All grafts weapons have a speed fac-
tor of +3, the same as for natural weapons such as claws and teeth.
Cpllonal Rule
The host does pay a slight penalty for using a graft. Since the graft feeds from his
blood stream, he must eat and drink more to support the graft. The table below
spells out how much more the host must eat and drink. Add up the percentages for
each graft and add them to the characters total daily needs. It is recommended that
in most campaign situations, values under 10% be ignored. Obviously there may be
extenuati ng ci rcumstances where even smal l vari ati ons make a di fference. Mul ti pl e
grafts that have nil effect on food and water needs are added together (sum the hit
di ce) before consul ti ng the tabl e bel ow
Extra Food and Water Needed
Graft Hours worn in a day Graft Hours worn in a day
hi t di c e 2 - 8 8 - 1 6 a l l da y hi t di c e 2 - 8 8- 16 al l day
ni l ni l 1 % 2% 3% 6% 1 2 %
1 ni l 1 % 2 % 3 4% 8% 1 6 %
1 1% 2% 4% 3 5% 1 0 % 2 0 %
2 2% 4% 8% 4 6 % 1 2 % 2 4 %
Producer
A life-shaped producer is usually a creature, although a few tissues do exist. It cre-
ates other life shape items, but is not itself directly useful. A few producers actually
make tissues. The arrowhead gecko in the example above is a producer.
Most producers create a tissue or a product. None have been found that create
creatures, although theoretically such a feat is possible. For each tissue and product
described, assume that there is a producer. Most producers have two hit dice and an
armor class of 8. Obviously there are variations.
Introducing a producer into a campaign must be done carefully. Before doing so,
try to gage what the worst possible scenario might be where the characters have an
unlimited supply of whatever the producer creates. For this reason, the random trea-
sure tables do not include producers for most of the items. If the DM wants to add
them, whenever a tissue or product is generated by the table, there is a 10% chance
it is a producer of the item instead.
Paraslle
Each life-shaped item labelled parasite is a malefic, mutated version of some other
item. They seek to do harm to their owners. As soon as the parasite has gotten its
pound of flesh, it attempts to flee. Obviously tissues cannot flee. Enterprising char-
acters might think of some dastardly use for a parasite, but in general they are
mal i gnant creati ons that need to be destroyed.
49
The Slale of Llfe-Shaped Cbecls
These Life-shaped items are presented as the ancient Shapers of Life created them.
The environment, and evolution may have changed them. Once the type of item
has been determined, roll on the chart below to determine the state of the object.
1d100 Roll State of the Life-Shaped 1d100 Roll State of the Life-Shaped
01- 10 Dead 81- 90 Di seased
11-45 Nor mal 91- 00 Inferi or
46- 80 Mut at ed
Dead
Dead Life-Shaped objects are utterly useless. A successful resurrection spell can be
used to restore the object to life. (A dead Life-Shaped object restored in this way
should be rerolled on the chart above. A second result of 01-10 means that the
object did not survive the shock to its system or was dead too long to be revived.
Normal
These objects are normal in all ways. A parasite that was determined to be normal
woul d sti l l be harmful . Normal obj ects act accordi ng to thei r descri pti ons.
Mulaled
Mutated Li fe-Shaped obj ects have changed i n one or more ways. Just how the
obj ect has changed i s up to the DM, but keep i n mi nd that the mutati on shoul d not
normal l y be benefi ci al . Some gui del i nes are provi ded bel ow:
Tools: Mutated tools either work in a less efficient manner (-1 or -5% to any
appl i cabl e rol l s) or have changed thei r basi c functi on (a mi ni ng tool whi ch ate rock
around gold deposits making recovery easier now eats the gold itself).
Grafts: Most mutated grafts bond permanentl y and pai nful l y wi th the host. The
mutated graft causes intense pain for 24-48 hours while it bonds with its hosts sys-
tem. While this is happening, it is impossible for the host to do anything more than
rest. Removing a graft does permanent damage to the host, equal to the grafts hit
points unless a regeneration spell is cast within one week of removal.
Producers: Mutated producers tend to produce mutated goods. How the created
i tem di ffers from the ori gi nal i s up to the DM to determi ne. Usi ng the exampl e of
the arrowhead gecko, a mutated arrowhead gecko coul d produce arrowheads
whi ch were bri ttl e and tended to break on i mpact (-2 damage) or were sl i ghtl y
warped causing the arrow to drift in flight (-1 to hit).
Parasites: Parasites that have been mutated can have a beneficial side effect, or
be even more deadl y than normal .
Dlseased
Diseased Life-Shaped items have their hit dice reduced by half and have a 10%
chance of mal functi oni ng each round they re used. The di sease i s communi cabl e to
most intelligent humanoids native to Athas (Thri-kreen are immune). There is a 1%
cumul ati ve chance per week of usi ng or carryi ng a di seased Li fe-Shaped i tem to
contract the illness. Humanoids suffering from the sickness lose 2 points from each
of their physical stats (Strength, Dexterity, and Constitution) until cured. The disease
can be cured with a simple cure disease spell.
Inferlor
These Life-Shaped items are most commonly the degenerate offspring of true Life-
Shaped items created by the rhulisti. Rather than mutating into dangerous creatures,
these items have become less specialized over the centuries, as evolution has
undone what the rhul i sti formed. Inferi or i tems tend to be l ess powerful or sure
than thei r counterparts. They most commonl y ei ther have a reduced effect (reduced
damage, reduced range, a requi red rest peri od between acti vati ons) or have a
reduced life span, burning out after a limited number of uses.
50
Addlng lhe Llfe-Shaped lo Your Campalgn
Adding regular magical items to a campaign is quite simple. Just change the random
treasure generation tables and the items begin showing up. The players dont think
twice about it, because the origin and nature of magical items is well established.
The DM has only increased the variety of something that was already there.
Life-shaped items are not so easy to add to a campaign. They are distinctly differ-
ent from anything the players or characters have ever seen before. They are going to
ask questions such as, what are these things? Where did they come from? Why
havent we seen them before? Who made them? How do they work?
All life-shaped creations can enter into a dormancy. Toward the end of the Blue
Age, the rhulisti began to breed this trait into their living tools. When not in use for
many months, or when subject to a prolonged hostile climate (lack of water, exces-
sive heat, etc.), the life-shaped shut down. It takes several days for one to become
dormant. Once in that state, the life-shaped can survive for centuries, or even eons,
if left undisturbed.
This is not the only way that the life-shaped have survived over the thousands of
years since the Blue Age. Creatures, but not tissues or products, can reproduce.
Those life-shaped that did not go dormant bred. Although the rhulisti created them
to breed true, thousands of years can undo even the best efforts. Mutations crept into
the bloodlines. Even with these slow changes, descendants of the life-shaped are still
alive today.
Before introducing the life-shaped to a campaign, the DM must decide on a ratio-
nale for their sudden appearance. He must have answers to all those questions.
Below are several ways to add the life-shaped to a campaign. Pick one. Each method
has the same ancient history for the life-shaped, given at the beginning of this chapter.
Once in the campaign, the DM must take care to give the players some equivalent
of an instruction manual. When the characters find a life-shaped creation, it will not
be obvious how to use it. In fact many of them look so strange that they will be mis-
taken for a dangerous creature and be destroyed rather than experimented with.
One of the easiest and best ways to handle this problem is to have the characters
find the life-shaped item in the hands of a current, usually evil, owner. By seeing
the life-shaped creation in action, they understand that it is not just some strange
monster.
A second, not so easy method, is to have them find an instruction manual. This
might be some life-shaped creature that transmits telepathic instructions, or recites
clues in ancient rhulisti. It could be a literal book, or pictograms drawn on a wall.
Finding these clues must happen before the characters encounter the life-shaped. A
character might carry around a magical item hoping to later figure out how to use it.
However, it is unlikely that he will carry around a living creature or dangerous look-
ing tissue hoping to discover how to use it.
Far. Far Avay
The characters first encounter the life-shaped in a location far removed from their
normal stompi ng grounds. Techni cal l y the l i fe-shaped can be found anywhere on
Athas. However, if the characters are visiting the far south for the first time, then that
is a good place for them to first find a life-shaped item. For that particular campaign,
such items are only found in that region. As time goes on, the life-shaped may
become more common throughout Athas.
In fact, one of the side effects of this method is that the characters themselves may
be responsible for their spread. Ever greedy characters may realize that such items
fetch a far higher price back home, where no one has ever seen them. Of course,
this also means that the characters become targets for thieves, the Veiled Alliance,
and whoever else covets the life-shaped.
5I
The Eplc Advenlure
The characters hear rumor of a strange and wondrous treasure. This can take the
form of a map, traders whispers, someone offering them a job, the dying gasp of a
Rhul-thaun halfling from the Jagged Cliffs, or whatever else the DM can think up.
Ideally this new adventure should be of epic proportion: a trip to the long buried
city of the rhulisti halflings, a life-shaped ship found floating in the Sea of Silt, an
evil Rhul-thaun halfling from the Jagged Cliffs come to conquer all of Athas, mutated
l i fe-shaped monsters deci mated remote vi l l ages, or an i mmensel y powerful l i fe-
shaped guardian awakened after thousands of years goes on a rampage.
The result of this epic adventure would introduce the life-shaped to the campaign
region of Athas. During the adventure, it can be made clear that other adventurers and
interested parties are helping themselves to the newly discovered life-shaped items.
Alternately the adventure opens up many clues and opportunities to find more of the life-
shaped. Of course, the word will get out, no matter how careful the characters might be.
The Cerulean Slorm
For thousands of years, the life-shaped have lain dormant. The seeds and eggs from
which they sprout are buried beneath the sands. Their still bodies entombed in the
very rocks. Without water, they remained inert, unmoving. The seeds and eggs were
mistaken for rocks or unknown plants, the dormant bodies burnt or eaten in the rare
event of a discovery.
Now the rains have come again, at least around the Cerulean Storm, the life-
shaped awaken. The seeds and eggs absorb the water that falls more than once every
few years. The mummified bodies swell with fluids that seep into the hairline cracks
in the rock. Slowly they stretch and come to life. The life-shaped have arrived again
on Athas after thousands of years of drought.
Cpen Commerce vllh lhe 1agged Cllffs
This is not a very likely scenario. The Rhul-thaun halflings of the Jagged Cliffs are
xenophobic in the extreme. They consider all other races, even other halflings, to be
inferior. However, it is not totally impossible that some enterprising halfling, maybe
even a PC, wi l l open up trade wi th them. The l i fe-shaped woul d sl owl y become
avai l abl e throughout the northwestern tabl el ands.
Renegade Rhul-lhaun from lhe 1agged Cllffs
Most Rhul-thaun halflings are paranoid and jealously guard the secrets of life shap-
ing. However, one Rhul-thaun life shaper has fled his homeland. Away from the
Jagged Cliffs, he practices his art, experimenting with forbidden techniques that his
masters fear so much. Some of these life-shaped are sold, some are stolen, some just
pl ai n escape.
To make matters worse, the life shapers of the Jagged Cliffs are not about to let
one of their own escape unpunished. They send several expeditions to find the rene-
gade. Each is heavily armed and equipped with the best life-shaped items available.
Of course not all of these expeditions will survive. Many will fall prey to the dangers
of the Athasian desert.
The Avakenlng
The life-shaped have been lying dormant in hidden caves, sink holes, buried cities,
and lost enclaves. Each has been set, like a living alarm clock, to awaken at a cer-
tain time. The time has come. Before now, adventurers found life-shaped creations
but could not awaken them. Most were destroyed out of carelessness. A few were
sold as curiosities, assumed to be inanimate objects. Over the next few years, more
and more l i fe-shaped awaken.
52
Maglc Effecls on Llfe-Shaped Ilems
The life-shaped can be affected by spells. If an item is being carried by its owner, it
uses that persons saving throw value. If not, it has a saving throw equal to its hit
dice as a fighter. Certain spells, such as area effect spells, affect life-shaped directly,
even if they are in a characters possession. The item uses its saving throw, or that of
its wielder, whichever is better. Only life-shaped products ever use the Item Saving
Throw table. All other items save as creatures.
Those spells castable upon creatures can be cast upon life-shaped tissues or crea-
tures, but not products. The tissue or creature cannot be targeted by a spell, unless
the spell description allows for that kind of discrimination. Grafts can never be inde-
pendently targeted. They have become a part of their host.
Vlzard Spells
Animal growth: The life-shaped are an amalgam of both plant and animal. This spell,
has a 50% chance of failing, prior to the saving throw.
Animate dead: This spell can only be cast upon creatures, not tissues. The undead
life-shaped creature is only half as effective, and moves at half speed. Undead grafts
wi l l not functi on on a l i vi ng creature, but wi l l functi on on an undead one.
Charm plants: The life-shaped are an amalgam of plant and animal. Thus this spell
Charm monster: This spell works normally. However, tissues are not quite living
creatures. There is only a 50% chance of this spell working on a tissue. If successful
the caster gains control of the life-shaped item for 1d610 days. The life-shaped item
does not directly harm its possessor, but otherwise obey the caster.
Clone: This spell works on tissues. It is one of the few ways to reproduce a tissue.
Creatures also can be cloned, and will not attempt to destroy each other.
Enchant an item: This spell will only work on products, not tissues or creatures.
Energy drain: This spell affects a life-shaped creature normally.
Forget: Only creatures are affected, not tissues. They will do nothing for 1d8 rounds.
Grease: If cast directly upon a tool, this spell may cause it to slide off the owner,
unless a successful saving throw is made.
Haste: This spell works normally. A weapon with this spell can attack twice as often.
Hold monster: This spell works normally on creatures, but has a 50% chance of failing
if cast upon tissues. If the saving throw fails, the item is useless for the spell duration.
Major creation: This spell can be used to generate a product, not a tissue or crea-
ture. Obviously the caster must have had a reasonable opportunity to examine the
particular life-shaped product he is attempting to duplicate.
Minor creation: This spell can be used to generate a product, not a tissue or crea-
ture. Obviously the caster must have had a reasonable opportunity to examine the
particular life-shaped product he is attempting to duplicate.
Ottos irresistible dance: Only life-shaped creatures can be affected. If unable to
dance, they quiver and shake for the spell duration, and are completely useless.
Plant growth: The life-shaped are an amalgam of plant and animal. Thus this spell
Polymorph other: This spell works normally on creatures. Tissues are not complete
creatures and have a 50% chance of not being affected. For the caster to change
anyt hi ng into a life-shaped item, he must have a reasonable opportunity to examine
that parti cul ar i tem. Grafts are automati cal l y pol ymorphed wi th the target.
Polymorph self: Grafts are polymorphed with the caster. It is possible to polymorph
into a life-shaped creature, but not a tissue or product.
Polymorph any object: Grafts are automatically polymorphed with the target. This
spell can affect all life-shaped items normally, even products.
Power word, stun: Stunned life-shaped items are unable to function.
Ray of enfeeblement: The life-shaped items effectiveness is cut in half. Weapons suf-
fer a -2 penalty to attack and damage rolls. Armor loses two points of AC bonus.
Reincarnation: This spell has no effect upon the life-shaped.
Repulsion: This spell works normally on creatures. Life-shaped creatures may leave
their owner, unless of course they are grafted on.
53
Shapechange: See polymorph self above.
Sleep: Only one item can be affected. It becomes limp and useless for 1d6 rounds.
Slow: The item is affected normally, moving half speed and acting every other round.
Stone to flesh: The life-shaped are an amalgam of plant and animal. Thus, this spell,
and its reverse, flesh to stone, have a 50% chance of failing, prior to the saving throw.
Stoneskin: This spell can be cast upon a life-shaped item. If the item is in a charac-
ters possession, he does not get the full benefits of the spell. However, if the stone-
skin is cast upon the character, the item does benefit. If both have the spell, each
attack upon the possessing character subtracts an attack from both spells.
Strength: This spell works normally on the life-shaped item. Weapons and armor
gain one point for attack rolls, damage and armor class.
Transmute water to dust: If the saving throw fails, the life-shaped item dies.
Vampiric touch: This spell works normally against the life-shaped. Treat any attempt
to touch and item in the possession of a character as an aimed attack.
Prlesl Spells
Animal growth: The life-shaped are an amalgam of plant and animal. Thus, this
spell, has a 50% chance of failing, prior to the saving throw.
Animate dead: This spell can only be cast upon creatures, not tissues. The undead
life-shaped creature is only half as effective, and moves at half speed. Undead grafts
wi l l not functi on on a l i vi ng creature, but wi l l functi on on an undead one.
Animate object: Only products are affected by this spell. No other form of life-
shaped qualifies as an object. Anti-animal shell: The life-shaped are neither plant nor
animal, but an amalgam of both. Therefore this spell, and others like it, have a 50%
chance of not affecting the life-shaped, prior to the saving throw.
Anti-plant shell: The life-shaped are an amalgam of plant and animal. Thus, this spell
has a 50% chance of not affecting the life-shaped, prior to the saving throw.
Charm person or mammal: The life-shaped are an amalgam of plant and animal.
Thus, this spell has a 50% chance of failing.
Cure light wounds: All healing spells work normally on the life-shaped.
Hold animal: The life-shaped are an amalgam of plant and animal. Thus, this spell
has a 50% chance of failing. If the life-shaped fails its saving throw, it is useless for
the spells duration.
Hold plant: This spell works normally on creatures, but has a 50% chance of failing if
cast upon tissues. If the saving throw fails, the item is useless for the duration of the spell.
Invisibility to animals: The life-shaped are an amalgam of plant and animal. Thus,
this spell has a 50% chance of not affecting any individual item. Only those that use
their own sensory organs or direct their own attacks are affected. For example, an
armblade is directed by the host, therefore it is unaffected.
Plant growth: The life-shaped are an amalgam of plant and animal. Thus, this spell
Raise Dead: This spell has no effect on the unintelligent life-shaped.
Regenerate: This spell affects life-shaped creatures normally. Tissues are healed com-
pletely. Its reverse, wither, will immediately destroy a tissue. This is one of the few
spells that can safely destroy a graft without harming the host.
Resurrection: Any life-shaped item can be brought back from the dead.
Speak with monsters: In general it is not possible to speak with the life-shaped crea-
tures, using magic or psionics. There a few exceptions, where the life-shaped crea-
ture has a measurable intelligence.
Speak with plants: In general it is not possible to speak with the life-shaped crea-
ture has a measurable intelligence. Even then there is a 50% chance of failure since
the life-shaped are a hybrid of plant and animal.
Speak with animals: In general it is not possible to speak with the life-shaped crea-
ture has a measurable intelligence. Even then there is a 50% chance of failure since
the life-shaped are a hybrid of plant and animal.
Transmute wafer to dust: If the saving throw fails, the life-shaped item dies.
54
The Llfe-Shaped:
Producls. Tlssues. and Crealures
Armbl ade Tissue/Graft: AC 7, HD 1
The armbl ade i s a bony bl ade two feet l ong. Where the
hi l t shoul d be, i s a col l ecti on of i nsectoi d, poi nty
legs. When the legs are pressed against the
back of a host s forearm, they di g i nto the
fl esh and wrap themsel ves ti ghtl y
around the bones. An armbl ade has
advantages and di sadvantages.
Being a part of the hosts body, he
can never be di sarmed. The host can hol d somethi ng i n
hi s hand whi l e usi ng the bl ade. The di sadvantage i s that he can
never sheath the bl ade. It can be di ffi cul t to even pi ck thi ngs up
wi th two feet of bl ade extendi ng out from hi s wri st. The sharp
serrated bl ade does 1d8 poi nts of damage to smal l and medi um
targets, and 1d8+1 agai nst l arge.
Arrowhead Geck Creature/ Producer: AC 7, HD
Thi s smal l l i zard sheds l arge scal es that are perfectl y shaped arrow
heads. The scal es even have ri dges on the tang where the cords wi l l
be used to bi nd i t to the shaft. Each arrowhead i s about two i nches
long and razor sharp. It is so sharp in fact that it is treated as if it
were made of metal , al though i t i s not. The arrowhead gecko i s
onl y a foot l ong, i ncl udi ng the tai l . It sheds an arrowhead once
each week. The gecko l i ves on smal l i nsects and pi eces of frui t.
Bl oodcl ot Tissue/Graft: AC 5, HD
Bl oodcl ots are smal l , three i nch di ameter, oval s. The surface i s smooth, mottl ed
red and bl ue, and warm to the touch. When
appl i ed to a wound, the cl ot begi ns to throb i n
ti me wi th the user s heart, absorbi ng the
bl ood. The wound ceases bl eedi ng and begi ns
to heal . After 1d10 rounds, the cl ot i s merged
wi th the host s fl esh and the wound i s seal ed.
The host heal s one hi t poi nt i mmedi atel y. The
host heal s at hi s normal rate thereafter, but does
not need to rest whi l e heal i ng. After a few days, the
bl oodcl ot i s absorbed i nto the host s body and cannot be retri eved.
Breathermask Tissue/Tool: AC 10, HD
This organic face mask allows its wearer to breather water. It only covers the lower
face, completely hiding the mouth and nose. The breathermask is
a blue and green striped oval of a limp, pliable rubbery sub-
stance. As a side effect the breathermask also filters most
impurities and toxins, granting the wearer a +4 bonus to all
relevant saving throws.
The tissue needs to be immersed in water once a day for
at least five minutes. If it is kept dry for over three days, it
dies. This living item is seen as proof that long, long ago,
water was much more plentiful than it is today on Athas.
Otherwi se why woul d anyone engi neer a l i fe form that
allowed a person to breath water?
55
Burrower Creature/Parasite AC 6, HD
This foul beast looks like any one of several other small, life-shaped creations. Shaped
like a cone, it has small teeth on its large end. When placed against any
part of the body, it begins to chew its way inward. The host has two
rounds to attempt to pull it off before it has gotten too deep to be extract-
ed safely.
Once inside a host, the burrower attaches itself to his heart. The parasite
then begins to excrete a chemical which prevents the hosts blood from coag-
ulating. The hosts Constitution is lowered by one point so long as the burrower
is living inside him, and wounds continue to bleed doing an extra 1 point of damage
to the afflicted character per round until bound or magically healed. Each year there
is a 25% chance that the burrower dies and the host regains his lost Constitution.
Chameleon Cloak Creature/Tool: AC 9, HD 2
Not a true cloak, but a living creature, it none-the-less looks just like a cloak.
Anyone handl i ng i t i mmedi atel y knows somethi ng i s wrong. The cl oak i s too
thick and is warm to the touch. The mouth and sensory organs are in the
hood. Rumor has i t that parti cul arl y dul l -wi tted adventures have rai sed
the hoods on their long unfed chameleon cloaks only to have the crea-
ture take a bite out of them! Fortunately, they are not equipped with
fangs (damage of 1 hp).
A chameleon cloak changes its skin color and texture to match its
i mmedi ate surroundi ngs. Under normal ci rcumstances, where the
wearer i s movi ng cauti ousl y and not compl etel y covered by the cl oak,
it adds 10% to the hiding ability of the wearer. Characters with no such
ability suddenly gain a 15% chance. If the character is standing still, the
light is poor, and the only part of him visible is the cloak, it adds 4
the hiding ability. The DM must interpret individual situations. The
chance of remai ni ng undetected never exceeds 95%.
Chameleon cloaks, like most of the rhulisti living items, feed on waste
products produced by the body. The cloak derives nutrition from material found in
perspiration. The cloak must be worn at least one day out of every week for it to get
sufficient nutrients.
Clawgrafts Tissue/Graft: AC 8, HD 1
Clawgrafts are found in sets of up to five. They are tiny spikes one and half inches
long. When pressed onto the tips of the hosts fingers, they merge with the flesh
of the fingertips. The clawgrafts bond to the flesh of the hosts fingers, becoming
a part of his hand. The damage done by a rake or slash varies depending upon
how many clawgrafts the host has. One claw does one point of damage, two to
three claws do 1d3 points, while four to five claws do 1d6 points.
Climbing Boots Tissue/Graft: AC 8; HD 1
At a glance, these look like normal boots. They are light brown and wrinkled, like
tough leather. Upon closer inspection, an observer can see that the top of the boot
actually merges with the skin of the hosts leg. The fringe of the sole is serrated, like
t he upper jaw of a primitive lizard. Subtle cracks can be seen that separate the toes.
When climbing boots are slipped onto the feet of a potential host, they
immediately secrete a powerful adhesive, effectively grafting the boots to the flesh of
the foot. Once the bond is formed, it feels to the host as if he is barefoot. However,
rocks, hot sand, or other uncomfortable obstacles can be felt but do not hurt.
Climbing with the boots is a joy. The sole of the foot seeks out footholds and grips
them tightly. The prehensile strength of the toes is dramatically enhanced. The hosts
climbing skill is enhanced by 25%, but never exceeds 99%. If a bar or other simple
handhold is available, the host can even hang upside down, but only for three
rounds before the boots lose their grip.
Climbing boots cannot be removed once attached, but can be cut off of a
host, causing as many points damage as the graft has hit points. Once off, the
hosts feet are forever tender. He can only walk half as far as normal before need-
ing to give his feet a rest.
56
Cl i ngbag Tissue/Tool: AC 8, HD
Thi s uni que bag i s extremel y handy. Just bel ow the edge of the mouth i s a dark
patch that secrets a powerful adhesi ve that wi l l sti ck to j ust about anythi ng, even
a character s ski n. On the opposi te si de of the bag i s a l i ght patch of sensi ti ve
ti ssue. When squeezed, gl ue si de rel eases and the bag can be pul l ed off wi th a
qui ck j erk. Cl i ngbags are found i n a vari ety of natural col ors i ncl udi ng sandy
yel l ows, tans, browns, and grays. They come i n two di fferent si zes. Large bags
can hol d up to 40l bs., whi l e smal l bags can onl y hol d 10l bs.
Cl i ngr ope Tissue/Tool: AC 8, HD
Made f r om a si mi l ar materi al to cl i ngbags, a cl i ngrope has a three foot
l ong gl ue patch on one end and a si x i nch rel ease patch on the
other. The ropes are found i n a vari ety of l engths, but never
shorter than 20 feet l ong and never l onger than 90 feet
(1d8+1 ti mes 10 feet). If the cl i ngrope i s used to grappl e a
l i vi ng creature, treat i t as an adhesi ve l asso. Creatures ti ed
up wi t h cl i ngr ope have hal f t he nor mal chance t o br eak or
sl i p thei r bonds.
Cl ot hworms Creature/ Producer: AC 5, HD
These small (3 inches long), gray-green worms are not pleasant to look at.
However the cl oth that they make i s very beauti ful . A cl othworm must be
placed on a persons body before it will spin any cloth. As it crawls
across the person, it leaves behind a fine, silk thread. It has an instinc-
tual abi l i ty to go under and over every other thread bl ocki ng i t s path.
In this manner, it actually weaves while on the persons body. The
worm eats threads that run paral l el to i t s path, repl aci ng i t wi th new
thread. The high armor class of the worm is strictly due to its small
size.
The worm absorbs the person s sweat and reads hi s current
emoti onal state. The col or and pattern of the cl oth i s woven
to match the current mood of the owner. Because the cl oth
i s actual l y woven on the person s body, i t i s a perfectl y tai -
l ored fi t. The cl oth wi l l begi n to deteri orate after 24 hours.
Onl y t he r i chest and most decadent of peopl e woul d buy
cl ot hwor m weave. However, t hey wi l l pay a good pri ce f or
it.
One cl ot hwor m cannot weave f ast enough t o cl ot he even
the smal l est hal fl i ng. It takes si x cl ot hworms to keep a
hal fl i ng dressed. Most humanoi ds need about ten, and hal f,
gi ants need 20 cl ot hworms. It takes about hal f an hour to get dressed
wi t h cl ot hwor ms.
Cool cl oak Creature/ Tool : AC 9, HD 2
The cool cl oak i s not trul y a cl oak, but a l i vi ng creature.
Anyone handl i ng i t i mmedi at el y knows t he di f f er -
ence. The cl oak i s too thi ck and feel s l i ke rub-
bery fl esh. The mouth and sensory organs are on
t he i nsi de of t he hood . Occasi onal l y car el ess
adventures have fai l ed to feed thei r cool cl oaks for
over three days. When they rai sed the hoods the
creature has taken a bi te out of them!
Fortunatel y, they are not equi pped wi th fangs
(damage of 1 hp per bi te).
The outsi de of the cl oak i s a dazzl i ng whi te.
The bl ack i nteri or stays cool i n even the most
severe desert temperatures, drawi ng heat away
from i ts owner. The cl oak provi des a +1 bonus
agai nst any heat rel ated attack.
57
Darkboots Creature/Parasite: AC 8, HD 1
At a gl ance, these l ook l i ke normal boots. They are dark brown and wri nkl ed, l i ke
tough l eather. The fri nge of the sol e i s serrated, l i ke the upper j aw of a pri mi ti ve
l i zard. Subtl e cracks separate the toes. They l ook very much l i ke cl i mbi ng boots
or t rackboot s.
When a potenti al owner sl i p one onto hi s foot, i t cl amps down on hi s l eg. Thi s
bite is so powerful that there is a 10% chance it cuts his foot right off. Regardless,
i t causes 2d6 poi nts of damage. The beast wi l l then attempt to fl ee. If caught, i t
has no combat attack form or any other natural defenses.
Earial Tissue/Graft: AC 8, HD
These wi de, soft, fl eshy cones are onl y si x i nches i n
di amet er . They ar e f ar f r om per f ect l y r ound, i nst ead
bei ng oddl y contorted and convol uted. The ti p of the
cone is spiked with a ring of sharp thorns.
When pl aced agai nst a potenti al host s ear, the eari al
begi ns to work i ts way i n. Thi s i s obvi ousl y qui te di scon-
cert i ng. Weari ng eari al s (one or two) causes a host to l ose
a poi nt of Chari sma. Thi s poi nt l oss i s temporary, l asti ng
onl y whi l e the eari al i s bei ng worn.
The eari al compl etel y coveres the ear. The host can
now hear sounds twi ce as far or twi ce as fai nt (but not
both) as he coul d before. Wi th onl y one eari al , the host
cannot fi x on a di recti on for sounds beyond hi s normal
range. However, wi th two eari al s he can. A rogue adds 25%
to hi s Detect Noi se score wi th one eari al , and an addi ti onal
10% wi th a second eari al .
Eyestalks Tissue/Graft: AC 5, HD
These strange grafts l ook l i ke eyebal l s mounted on one foot l ong stal ks. The stal k
is actually a flesh covered, flexible spine. The base of the stalk has three tiny,
cl awed tendri l s. An eyest al k can onl y be set i nto an empty eye socket. The ten-
dri l s si nk themsel ves i nto the host s brai n. At the same ti me, the
stal k secretes a powerful anestheti c, putti ng the host i nto a
deep, dreaml ess sl eep. For the next day, whi l e the eyest al k
merges with the hosts system, the host is kept asleep. The
high armor class of the eyestalk is because of its small size,
not the toughness of the flesh.
When retracted, the eyest al k i s i ndi sti ngui shabl e from a normal
eye, except that i t has a yel l ow i ri s. The stal k l i es coi l ed behi nd the
eyebal l . The host can make the eyest al k extend out up to one foot
i n any di recti on. It can peer around corners, l ook around behi nd the
host, or even extend i nto smal l openi ngs. The eyest al k must poi nt i n
the same direction as the hosts eye, or else the host suffers from
di zzi ness and di sori entati on (make a savi ng throw versus paral yza-
ti on at -2 or di sori ented for 1d4 rounds. -1 to al l attack
rol l s.) The onl y other al ternati ve i s to l eave one eye i n
the socket, covered wi th the eyel i d.
Some eyest al ks (10%) do not requi re an empty eye
socket to attach. Instead the base of the stalk secretes a
powerful adhesi ve and can be secured to al most any
part of the body. The eye beams i mages di rectl y to the
hosts brain using a form of telepathy.
58
Face-eater Tissue/Parasite: AC 8. HD
Thi s nasty i tem i s a l i mp, fl exi bl e di sk that feel s l i ke rubber. It i s about a foot i n
di ameter and compl etel y transparent. It l ooks very much l i ke a mysk or a
breat hermask. When appl i ed to a potenti al host s face, i t grafts i tsel f on. It di s-
sol ves the ski n wi th a powerful aci d, so that i t can get to the bl ood vessel s. A
character wi th thi s parasi te l ooks as i f hi s face has been peel ed off. The under-
l ayi ng muscl es and bl ood vessel s are al l that remai ns. A character wi th a f ace-
eat er attached l oses three poi nts of Chari sma. Each month there i s a 10% chance
that the f ace-eat er di es and fal l s off. The host s face wi l l parti al l y heal over, but
remai ns heavi l y scarred. He recovers two of hi s l ost Chari sma poi nts, but never
the thi rd unl ess extensi ve heal i ng magi cs are used.
Farspeaker Creature/ Tool : AC 8, HD
A f arspeaker l ooks l i ke a si x i nch tal l cross between a l i zard and bi rd. It has the
shape and posture of a bi rd, wi th two back l egs and
no forel egs. Where i t shoul d have wi ngs, i t has two
l arge membranes that l ook more l i ke ears. Its tai l i s
about a foot l ong and used pri mari l y for bal ance.
Al t hough i t i s cover ed wi t h br i ght r ed and yel l ow
scal es, i t has a l arge, stubby beak, and a spi ked
crest.
Al l f arspeakers can share thei r thoughts. Thi s
does not amount to much, si nce they have few
ori gi nal or i nteresti ng thoughts of thei r own.
However, f arspeakers know the names of al l
t hei r ki nd, no mat t er wher e t hey mi ght be on
Athas. When thei r owner speaks a name, they
mental l y broadcast whatever he says next to the
f arspeaker wi th that name. The onl y way to
send a message to anyone i s to know the name
of his farspeaker.
These odd beasts prefer to perch on an
owner s shoul der. If a f arspeaker hears a mes-
sage, it whispers it into its owners ear. Their
voi ces are soft, but have amazi ng range. The
repeated voi ce does not sound l i ke the ori gi nal ,
but carri es al l the i ntonati ons and accents.
No psi oni ci st has been abl e to read the mi nd of
a f arspeaker. Nor has anyone been abl e to get a f ars-
peaker to say anythi ng of i ts own accord, other than i ts name. If asked a di rect
questi on, the f arspeaker al ways repl i es wi th i t s own name.
Flashlance Creature/ Tool : AC 6, HD 1
Thi s bony, whi te spear i s three feet l ong, wi th two overl appi ng ri dges. The si x
i nch base of the spear i s a handl e. When the handl e i s squeezed, the spear
extends to its full length of six feet. This telescoping effect is so fast that it can
puncture armor and the fl esh
beneath. Qui ck as a fl ash, the spear
contracts, to be ready for a new attack.
It takes many months of dedi cated prac-
ti ce to master thi s weapon. In-other-words,
the character must use a weapon profi ci ency sl ot
for i t. Unti l that ti me, i t can onl y be used i n one of two
ways. The wi el der may ei ther use i t as a stabbi ng short
swor d, ignoring its telescoping ability, or use it as a sort of short
range mi ssi l e weapon. In the l atter form, the wi el der poi nts and
squeezes, attempti ng to i mpal e the target. Ei ther way, the weapon does
1d6 poi nts of damage. Once profi ci ent, the wi el der can combi ne the two and
gai ns a +1 to hi t the weapon does 1d10 poi nts of damage per attack.
59
Flexars Tissue/Graft: AC 5, HD 1
A flexar is dark yellow, bony half-shell that can improve the Dexterity of its host.
Varying in size, the smallest is as big as a fingernail and the largest as big as a
mans palm. The inside surface of a flexar is covered with
miniature spikes. They are usually found in pairs (left and
right side), or a set of ten miniatures, one for each knuckle.
Flexar grafts are placed on one of the major joints of the
body. The spikes grip the skin and send tendrils into the joint.
The grafting process is painless, but the process causes some
swelling and stiffness for the next several days. During the
grafting process, the hosts Dexterity is reduced by two points.
Only if the flexar is destroyed by damage, can it be removed.
Damage done to a flexar is also applied to the host. for every
three flexar pairs on a host, he gains one point of Dexterity.
There are only nine pairs available, so a host cannot gain more
than three poi nts of Dexteri ty, and cannot exceed a Dexteri ty
of 24. If a host has three or more pairs of flexars, he loses one
poi nt of Chari sma, assumi ng they are not covered.
Optional Rule- If the DM wishes to get more specific with the flexars, the pairs
are appl i ed to the fol l owi ng j oi nts: wri sts, el bows, shoul ders, hi ps, knees, ankl es,
fingers, spine, neck. Unlike the tendonils, it is more difficult to apply specific
Dexteri ty awards for speci fi c j oi nts.
Glider Grafts Tissue/Graft: AC 10, HD 1
This large, thin membrane stretches from the hosts wrists, across his back, and
anchoring at his neck and hips. On a halfling or other small host they
stretch from ankles to wrists. The grafts are a fleshy color with red
tracings, highly reminiscent of blood vessels. When first attached,
the hosts back and wrists feel like they are on fire. The feeling lasts for
about a day during which time the host acts as if he were under the
effects of a slow spell because of the pain and swelling.
When unf url ed, t he gl i der grafts al l ow the host to gl i de through
the air. The host must launch himself from at least 30 feet high,
because the first 20 feet or so he is free falling before the glider grafts
catch enough air. After that, the host can glide. Halflings, and like-
sized hosts, glide 100 feet for every ten feet of launch height
(beyond the first 20). Man sized hosts glide 50 feet for every ten of
launch height. On large hosts, the glider grafts do not allow any
flight, but will break a fall such that it does no damage.
Glowpods Creature/Tool: AC 10, HD 1
A gl owpod i s a one foot di ameter sphere,
wi th a fl attened bottom. Al though i t i s
bul ky, the gl owpod onl y wei ghs two
pounds. The creatures feeding organs are on the
small, flattened side. Feeding the glowpod is as sim-
ple as setting it in a dish of food. When not glowing,
the gl owpod i s a l eathery yel l ow.
If the glowpod is in a darkened area for more than
one round, i t begi ns to gl ow. One gl owpod can i l l umi -
nate an area 30 feet in diameter with soft blue light. If
well fed, the glowpod can light this area for up to 10
hours before fadi ng.
60
Grappl er Creature/Tool: AC 9, HD 1
This ranged weapon fires a stream of long, sticky cords. The grappler is about two
and a half feet long and six inches in diameter. One end is open, where the cords
are coiled. The other end has a curious hole near the base, just large enough for a
thick, human finger. The weapon is bulky and awkward enough that it must be
wielded with two hands. It is fired by inserting a finger into the hole in the base and
pl ucki ng the exposed tendon.
When fired, six sticky tentacles shoot out up to 30 feet away. Upon contact, the
wrap themselves around the target. There is a 50% chance of trapping the victims
arms. The adhesive on the tentacles is quite strong, requiring a successful bend
bars/lift gates roll to escape. While entangled, the victim loses all shield and
Dexterity bonuses. There is a 25% chance of knocking the victim down with
a strong pull.
Once the tentacles are unwrapped from a victim, it takes five full rounds
for the cords to retract. Until then the grappler is inoperable. The grappler
holds its victim for ten rounds before releasing of their own accord. If the ten-
don trigger is pulled, the tentacles will release immediately.
The grappler is a plant-based creature and when not in use it feeds on
sunlight and water. Once per month a grappler should be allowed to
extend its roots and plant itself for at least one week. Each month that a grap-
pler goes without being planted it loses one hit point.
Healer Pod Creature/Tool: AC 7, HD 3
Standing seven feet tall, the healer pod looks like an overgrown seed. It has a seam
on its front face that allows access to its hollow interior. Any character can crawl
inside the pod, which slowly closes itself over him. Once inside the pod, hundreds
of tiny tendrils and roots invade the persons body. Within seconds the patient is
unconscious. Attempting to remove a patient prematurely forces him to roll a
system shock check, where failure means death. Furthermore, the patient sus-
tains 3d10 points of damage.
The more severel y wounded the pati ent, the l onger he must remai n wi thi n
the healing pod. Each hour the patient heals 1d4 hit points. On the average, it
takes a patient ten hours to heal 25 hit points. Healing a disease takes 1-10
extra hours depending upon the severity of the disease. Regenerating lost limbs
adds a full day for each limb, but only two hours for fingers, toes, ears and the
like. A healing pod cannot cure mental disorders, magical diseases or curses, or
conditions the character was born with. The healer pod was designed to handle
life-shaped grafts, healing them while leaving them attached to the patient.
A healer pod is most often found as a seed about the size of a mans palm. It
must be planted in fertile soil and tended for a full season. During that time, the
plant grows to its full size. Laying on the ground, its root structure is not imme-
diately visible. However, it takes a combined Strength of 30 to pull it from the
ground. Once pulled, the healer pod withers and dies.
Halflings are perfectly safe inside a healer pod. Most other humanoid races
have a 1% chance per use of something going wrong. Half-giants and Thri-
kreen cannot use it at all. There are many things that can go wrong. 75% of
the time it is just a cosmetic change, but 25% of the time it is more severe.
1d8 Cosmetic Severe
1 Total loss of body hair Becomes sterile
2 Skin or hair color changes Addi cted to heal er pod*
3 Joints become very large Clubbed foot or hand (-2 DEX)
4 Voi ce becomes raspy Loses 1d6 hit points permanently
5 Webbi ng between fi ngers/toes
6 Forked tongue and slitted eyes
All life-shaped grafts die
Becomes deaf
7 Grows bri ghtl y col ored feathers Healer pod dies, 3d10 damage to character
8 Grows a 3 tail, not prehensile Character dies
* Addiction to the pod causes the individual to spend at least 8 hours per day within
the pod, otherwise the character suffers 1d8 points of damage for every day away.
6I
lngenies Tissue/Graft: AC 8, HD
Each ingeni improves its hosts Intelligence by one point. Each of the three types is
shaped like a blunt cone about four inches high. The base of the cone
has a small, sharp spike. The bulk of the cone is pliable and soft,
wi th a thi ck, l eathery ski n. The memory i ngeni i s furry, and
marked wi th a compl ex pattern of bl ack and orange di amonds.
The l ogi c i ngeni i s shi ny and smooth, col ored pal e bl ue wi th a
chaotic pattern of fine black lines. The creativity ingeni is a dull
brown, and textured l i ke human ski n. Havi ng more than one
ingeni causes the host to lose one point of Charisma, assuming
they are not covered. A host cannot have more than one of
each type of i ngeni , and al l together they cannot rai se the
host s Intel l i gence above 24.
When attached to the top or back of the head, the ingeni puts
its host into a coma for 20-30 hours while it sends filaments into
the appropriate part of the hosts brain. An ingeni cannot be
removed without killing the host. If the ingeni is killed, the host
goes insane and dies within 24 hours. A heal spell will allow the host to live, but
only a restoration or wish spell will cure the insanity.
Ironthread Product/Tool: AC -2, HD 3
lronthread does not actually have any iron in it. It is made of a
unknown, smoot h, dul l , f l exi bl e mat er i al . Al t hough i r ont hr ead
is as thin as a piece of yarn, and almost as light, it is stronger
than gi ant hai r rope. A 50 foot l ength of i ronthread wei ghs
onl y two pounds. l ronthread can hol d up to 1000 Ibs.
before snapping.
The drawback of ironthread is that it is so thin it cannot
be used to hold anything soft yet heavy, such as a person. It
wi l l begi n to cut ri ght through the fl esh. Each round the
person l oses one hi t poi nt. However, i ronthread i s perf ect
for wood, stone, bone, or even metal .
Klacker Creature/Tool: AC 7, HD
A klacker is small enough to fit around a mans wrist or ankle. It has four tentacles,
two on each side, which it uses to grasp and hold onto the character. The body is a
soft, green oval, with a dozen hair thin antenna. The top of the oval
has two chitinous plates, like misplaced insect wings.
So long as the klacker is grasping a living creature, it will
sense for the presence of planar energy. It knows if there are
any other planar creatures within 60 feet. Exactly how it
does this is a mystery. Only lead and some obscure magical sub-
stances, such as basilisks blood, will block it. When it detects
other planar energy, it taps the two chitin plates together, making a
clacking noise.
Lens Tissue/Graft: AC 3, HD
These tiny patches of tissue are clear. They are applied directly to the hosts eyeballs,
rendering him blind for about a day. Once they have adapted to the host, he can see
clearly at twice his normal range. If the host had serious vision
pr obl ems, t hey onl y cor r ect vi si on t o make i t nor mal f or
his race.
A single lens graft causes blurriness and nausea. Its ben-
efits can only be achieved by having a matching set. The
high armor class of the graft is due to its tiny size, not its
toughness.
These grafts feed on tears and have two slight side effects. The
hosts eyes tend to be slightly drier than normal, becoming red if irri-
tated. While wearing lenses the character is cannot cry, he is unable
to generate sufficient moisture from his eyes to form tears.
$
Lens, Red Ti ssue/ Craft: AC 3, HD
These ti ny patches of ti ssue are a transparent ruby
red. They are appl i ed di rectl y to the host s eye-
bal l s, and cause bl urred vi si on for about a
day (-1 to hi t, cannot see further than 20 ).
Once they have adapted to the host, he can
see heat emi ssi ons cl earl y. If the host al ready
had i nfravi si on, i t does hi m no good.
A si ngl e red l ens onl y functi ons wi th the other eye
cl osed. In normal l i ght si tuati ons thi s i sn t a probl em. However, i n
l ow l i ght a si ngl e red l ens puts a ti nt on everythi ng and causes
ghost i mages of anythi ng wi th a strong heat si gnature (treat thi s as i f
al l cr eat ur es vi ew wi t h t he l ens were weari ng a cl oak of
di spl acement.) The hi gh armor cl ass of the graft i s due to i ts ti ny si ze, not
its toughness.
Life Leech Tissue/Parasite: AC 5, HD
A l i fe l eech l ooks very much l i ke a bl oodcl ot. It i s a
smal l , three i nch di ameter, oval . The surface i s
smoot h, and mot t l ed r ed and bl ue. Tr ue bl oodcl ot s
have more red than bl ue, but a l i fe l eech i s more
bl ue t han r ed. When appl i ed t o a wound, t he l i f e
l eech begi ns to drai n i t s host of bl ood and other
vi tal fl ui ds. He l oses 1d6 hi t poi nts i mmedi atel y. The
l eech remai ns on the host for another 1d6 days,
dr ai ni ng one addi t i onal hi t poi nt each day. When sat i at -
ed, it falls off. Cutting the life leech off of a host causes
hi m 1d4 poi nt s of damage.
The ori gi nal purpose of thi s ti ssue i s not known. It i s hi ghl y l i kel y that i t i s a
parasi ti c mutati on of the bl oodcl ot. The l eech i s al most i mpossi bl e to use i n
combat, si nce i t must be appl i ed to a wound. It does not react i f pl aced on
heal thy ski n. However, i t has been used by the unscrupul ous for torture.
Life Leech Sword Creature/ Tool : AC 3, HD 1
Thi s i s a powerful weapon, worthy of consi derabl e respect by al l adversari es. It
begi ns to gi bber and pant i n l ow tones as soon as i t i s drawn. It
sounds for al l the worl d l i ke the creature i s i nsane and hun-
geri ng for the taste of bl ood. The sound al one has been
known t o cause weak wi l l ed opponent s t o f l ee ( opponent s
of l ess than 1 hi t di e must save versus paral yzati on or
fl ee.) Thi s weapon i s consi dered a short sword for
pur poses of det er mi ni ng damage and weapon
speed.
When the bl ade stri kes a l i vi ng oppo-
nent, i t drai ns i ts vi cti m of bl ood,
water and other nutri ents. The crea-
ture utters a ghoul i sh si gh as i t
absorbs the fluids. That first strike
drai ns 1d12 poi nts of damage i n
addi ti on to the wound. Thereafter,
t he vi ct i m i s t oo dehydr at ed, and
can onl y be drai ned of 1d6 hi t poi nts
per wound. It takes a ful l day, wi th l ots
of fl ui ds, to recover from the effects of the l i fe l eech sword. The vi cti m does not
regai n any hi t poi nts, but no l onger feel s dehydrated.
63
Mandi bl es Tissue/Tool: AC 10, HD 1
At fi rst gl ance, thi s weapon l ooks l i ke the mancatcher pol earm. It i s ten feet l ong
wi th a Y j oi nt at the end. The
ti ps of the two prongs have
hooks poi nt i ng i n t owar d t he
j oi nt, and a spi ke at the j oi nt
poi nti ng toward the target. At the base
i s a speci al gri p. On a successful attack, the mandi bl es cl ose around thei r target,
doi ng 1d6 poi nts of damage. If the speci al handl e i s twi sted, the mandi bl es
rel ease. If twi sted the other way, they cl ench even i f no target i s trapped between
them.
Mot her Creature/Tool: AC 6, HD 3
Thi s strange creature l ooks l i ke a l arge moni tor
l i zard over si x feet l ong. However, the tai l i s very
short and the chest ai d stomach are overl y l ari e.
Whi l e a mother has no teeth, i t does have a
serrated ri dge. A bi te can do 1d6 poi nts of
damage.
A mother is designed to care for tissues. Any tis-
sue tossed near it is snapped up as if it were a deli-
cate morsel. In reality, the tissue makes its way to a spe-
ci al stomach. There i t i s soaked i n cam-rahn and gentl y
pampered. A command word i s spoken when the ti ssue
i s gi ven to the mother. When the command word i s sai d
agai n, the ti ssue i s produced and l ai d gentl y on the fl oor. A
mother can hol d up to 10 hi t di ce of ti ssues at one ti me. A
mother i s very protecti ve. Any aggressi ve acti ons wi l l cause i t to
run or attack, whi chever i s most l i kel y to preserve the preci ous
tissues that it carries.
Mysks Tissue/Craft: AC 8, HD
A mysk raises its hosts Charisma by one point. No host can
have more than one of each type of mysk. They can never
cause the host s Chari sma to exceed 24. Unl i ke tendoni l s,
i ngeni es, or the other attri bute enhanci ng grafts, none of
the three mysks look anything like each other.
The beaut y mysk i s a l i mp, fl exi bl e di sk that feel s l i ke
rubber. It i s about a foot i n di ameter and compl etel y
transparent. It i s appl i ed to the face, where i s bonds to
the hosts skin. The mysk subtly alters his face to be more
attracti ve, smoothi ng bl emi shes and eveni ng out features.
The dul cet mysk i s a hol l ow cone, mottl ed i n vari ous
shades of red. It is placed in the hosts mouth, where it
wri ggl es down and l odges i n hi s vocal cords. The host s
voi ce becomes r i ch and mel odi ous.
The aromatic mysk is a sickly, green fleshy disk about
two i nches i n di ameter, porous on one si de and rough
on the other. If the rough si de i s pl aced anywhere on the
hosts skin it bonds there within ten minutes. The mysk alters
the sweat gl ands of the host to al ways emi t speci al i zed
pheromones that subtl y attract other creatures. Thi s attracti on
i s not strong enough to make any person or creature act abnormal l y, but i f unde-
tected can i nfl uence them. For exampl e, a woman woul d not fal l i n l ove wi th a
man because of these grafts. However, she might be more disposed to answer his
questi ons.
64
Mysk, False Tissue/Tool: AC 8, HD
This item is indistinguishable from a beauty mysk. It is a clear, flexible
disk that feels like rubber. Its special power is to recall the shape of
the last face to wear it. Putting it on changes the wearers face to
looks just like the last face it covered, including coloration, tat-
toos, face paints, and even make-up. Unfortunately, this means
that if the same person wears it twice in a row, it just makes him
look like himself. The mysk can be put onto a dead persons face
to pick up its impression. However, if the dead face has a
wound, the wound will be imitated as well. It takes three full
rounds for the mysk to memorize a face.
The false mysk can create a nearly perfect physical disguise, but
does nothing to alter the wearers mannerisms, voice, or knowledge.
Using a false mysk gives a character with the non-weapon proficiency dis-
guise a +5 on attempts to use the skill. Characters without the disguise proficiency
can use the mysk to give them a base disguise chance of their Charisma minus one.
Ni ghteye Creature/ Tool : AC 8, HD 1
Thi s strange creature l ooks l i ke a skul l cap wi th two fl eshy tentacl es growi ng
from the si des. The tentacl es have l arge, yel l ow spots, each wi th a dark, poi nted
center. They l ook very much l i ke cat s eyes.
A ni ghteye i s control l ed wi th the muscl es of the face and neck. The tentacl es
can be tol d to move and cause i t s spots to gl ow. The l i ght i s so strong, that i t
shi nes twi n beams up to 60 feet away. The tentacl es can be made to face to
ei ther si de, but not backwards. Both tentacl es wi l l al ways face i n the same
di recti on. The ni ghteye can control the i ntensi ty of the l i ght down to a dul l
gl ow. If an enemy sees onl y those cat eyes, set over a foot apart and over si x
feet off the ground, he may assume he faces a huge nocturnal monster.
Ol factors Tissue/Craft: AC 8, HD
There is no mistaking this graft for anything but a nose. It is as long as a
man s fi nger and as thi ck as two of them. Twi n cavi ti es on one end gi ve
away i t s functi on. The other end has a soft membrane. When the mem-
brane i s pl aced agai nst the host s nose, mol ds i tsel f to hi s nose. Once
attached, the ol factor al l ows the host to smel l as wel l as any tracki ng ani -
mal . When t he host sni f f s, t he ol factor actual l y moves around, l i ke a
very short trunk. The host s tracki ng profi ci ency gai ns a +3 bonus. He i s
abl e to detect poi son or tai nted food and dri nk 20% of the ti me. An
ol factor decreases the host s Chari sma by one poi nt whi l e worn.
Pathfi nder Creature/ Tool : AC 8 HD 1
Thi s bi zarre creature l ooks l i ke a l arge sl ug wi th l egs. It i s about a foot Iong,
wi th no di scernabl e face, but two fl exi bl e antennae. It has si x short l egs, but no
arms. It i s grey on the top, wi th bl ue spots
runni ng down the center of i t s back, and
br own on t he bel l y.
The pathfi nder l eaves a scent trai l behi nd i t.
To do thi s, i t must wal k al ong the ground. It has a
movement rate of 6. It can fi nd thi s trai l for up to
two days, presumi ng that nothi ng di sturbs i t. Powerful
scents can obscure the trai l , as can rai n or other weather.
After two days, the trai l has compl etel y evaporated. Even
the most sensi ti ve tracker cannot pi ck up i t s trai l .
The pathfinder can be ordered to retrace its path. It is impor-
tant to note that the trail is followed as the creature walked it.
Most tracki ng ani mal s fol l ow an ai rborne scent whi ch al l ows them
to make some short cuts. Even when forced to use ground trails, those
animals head toward the stronger scent. The pathfinder will only follow its own
scent, and it always follows it backwards, toward the weaker scent. The pathfinder is
the perfect tools for exploring confusing underground mazes and dungeons.
65
Platons Tissue/Graft: AC 3, HD 1
A platon grafts onto a part of the hosts body and acts like plate armor. In the
extreme heat of Athas, regul ar armor i s i mpracti cal . Because pl atons become a
part of the hosts body, he does not suffer the penalties for such armor. Platons
are brown and textured l i ke tree bark. Havi ng more than two pai rs of pl atons, or
j ust the head pl aton, causes the host to l ose one poi nt of Chari sma.
There are three types of pl atons, body, l i mb, and
head. A body platons is the right size for the
chest or back of the host. A limb platon is
about the si ze of a man s forearm. A head
pl aton l ooks l i ke a bowl . Al l three forms are
concave, the head more than the others.
When the concave si de i s appl i ed to the
appropri ate part of the host s body, i t mel ds
wi th the ski n. The pl aton grows to cover that
part of the body. The head pl aton grows to
cover the face as wel l , but not the l ower j aw,
and l eavi ng openi ngs the eyes and nose. For
the next 20-30 hours, the pl aton i s extremel y
soft whi l e i t mol ds i tsel f to i ts wearer, care
must be taken not to move duri ng thi s process,
as the armor can become damage easi l y. Once
the pl aton mol ds to the user s body, i t cannot be
r emoved wi t hout damagi ng t he wear er . Removi ng a
pl aton causes damage to the wearer equal to the
number of hi t poi nts the segment has.
The pl aton covered part of the host s body i s
effecti vel y AC 3, before other modi fi ers. No
other armor, except a shi el d, wi l l functi on wi th
pl atons. Li mb pl atons can be fi t onto the front
or back of the l ower l eg, upper l eg, l ower arm, or
upper arm. Body pl at ons can be fi t onto the chest or
back. The general AD&D
rul es do not al l ow di fferent AC scores for di fferent parts

of a PCs body. However, they do allow for different AC scores for the front vs.
the back of the character. If the opti onal hi t l ocati on rul es are not bei ng used,
each pl aton adds one poi nt of AC to that si de of the character. The body pl aton
adds two poi nts, for the appropri ate si de. The head pl aton adds one poi nt to both
sides.
Pl atons are i ncompati bl e wi th tendoni l s, fl exars, i ngeni es, sool mons, mysks,
and other exterior grafts. This is true only for those cases where the grafts are
occupyi ng the same part of the body. For exampl e, an upper arm pl aton woul d
prevent a host from havi ng shoul der or el bow fl exars, or upper arm tendoni l s.
However, he coul d have knee f l exars, back t endoni l s, or any i ngeni .
Poison Nodule Tissue/Tool: AC 8, HD
Thi s ti ny pod i s si x i nches l ong and as thi ck around as a man s thumb. The nodul e
i s a dul l bl ack, wi th fi ne green trac-
eri es. When squeezed, the nodul e
emi ts a vi rul ent poi son (type B,
i nj ecti on, onset 2d6 mi nutes,
strength 20/1-3). The poison is a
gel sui tabl e for coati ng weapons.
The nodul e secretes a powerful adhesi ve
whi ch al l ows i t t o be at t ached t o al most any bl aded weapon, i ncl udi ng
cl awgraf t s. The nodul e can be made to expel i ts poi son once every turn.
66
Psi-cloak Creature/Tool: AC 8, HD 2
Al though the ori gi nal hal fl i ng l i fe engi neers had no psi oni c abi l i ti es, over the
ages some of thei r creati ons have evol ved them. Thi s parti cul ar creature i s hi ghl y
resistant to psionic powers, and transfers that resistance to its owner. It conveys a
psi oni c armor cl ass mac bonus of +5.
The psi-cloak is a pale green with a blue fringe. Its surface is hard and rough.
It provides a physical armor class of 5 for anyone wearing it. The sensory organs,
as wel l as the toothl ess mouth, are al l on the i nsi de of the hood.
Quickstrike Tissue/Graft: AC 8, HD 1
The qui ckst ri ke i s a shorter versi on of the armbl ade. In i ts dormant state, i t
i s a col l ecti on of poi nty i nsectoi d l egs around a hard shel l ed
body, wi th no bl ade vi si bl e. When the l egs are pressed agai nst the
back of a host s forearm, they di g i nto the fl esh and wrap them-
sel ves ti ghtl y around the bones. The bl ade i s al most i mpossi bl e to
spot when hi dden under a l ong sl eeved outfi t of some sort.
The hosts nervous system is connected to the
graft. After a few weeks of hard work
and practice, the host can cause a
bl ade to shoot out from the back of
the graft. The bade sticks out eight i nches
beyond the host s cl enched fi st. Thi s i s a marvel ous weapon for thi eves and
assassins. The blade does damage equal to that of a dagger.
Senselink Tissue/Tool: AC 8, HD
The sensel i nk i s desi gned to transmi t the memori es of one creature to another. It
i s a cord, roughl y three feet l ong, wi th a sucti on cup bul b at each end. The
cord i s a dark orange, al most brown. The two bul bs are a bri ghter shade,
closer to red.
The ends of the cord are placed on the skulls of the two creatures that
wi l l share memori es. So l ong as the cord l i nks the creatures, each can
access the memori es of the other as i f they were thei r own. It does not
permi t the transmi ssi on of thoughts, feel i ngs or anythi ng except memo-
ries of past events.
It is possible to send out a trained animal as a scout. Using the
sensel i nk, the owner can experi ence the memori es of the creature,
basi cal l y getti ng fi rst hand report of the ani mal s travel s.
If a recent memory of great physi cal pai n i s experi enced, the owner must
make a system shock rol l or l ose consci ousness for 1d4 hours.
Sensor Creature/Tool: AC 8, HD
The sensor i s actual l y two symbi oti c creatures, not one. One i s cal l ed the cri er,
the other the baffler. Each is about six inches long. The crier is
reddi sh brown and the baffl er i s yel l owi sh brown. When i n
contact, the two twi ne about each other.
So l ong as the two are wi thi n 50 feet of one another,
nothi ng happens. Once separated by at l east that amount
the cri er begi ns to pi ne for the baffl er. The cri er keeps
sensi ng for the baffl er. Nobody knows how the cri er
detects the baffl er. The cri er can detect through moder-
atel y thi ck materi al , up to 10 feet of stone, and even
through 5 feet of l ead.
If any creature more than a foot i n l ength enters the 50
sensing radius, the crier begins screeching in fear. The
sound i s qui te pi erci ng. The al arm conti nues unti l ei ther
the baffl er gets wi thi n range, or the i ntruder l eaves.
67
Shockstick Creature/Tool: AC 8, HD 1
This creature has a round body with a hard, massive outer shell. Its tail is
thick, solid, and about two feet long. When held by the tail, it curls up
into a ball and looks like a club. When released, the head of the club
uncurls and four crab-like feet appear. The shockstick can move at a rate
of 10 feet per round.
When curled up, the creature can be used like a club, doing 1d6
points of damage with each blow. Its name is derived from the fact that
every three rounds it can deliver a powerful electrical shock for 1d6 points of
addi ti onal damage.
Slapper
Creature/Tool: AC 3, HD 1
A slapper looks like a medium sized lizard, with a body about foot and
a half long, and weighs 25lbs. Its tail is another three feet long and
ends with a large, flat, bony plate. The beast rides on the shoulders
of its owner during combat, gripping him under both armpits. If
any object or creature approaches quickly from behind, the slap-
per will attempt to swat it away with its tail. Slow approaches,
such as an attempt to pick the owners pocket, are ignored.
Therefore any attack with an arrow, stone, hand held weapon,
claw, even the bite of a small creature, has a chance of being
deflected, or even knocked away. The effect of this is to improve
the owners armor class by two points. Do not use this armor class
bonus for the bite of a large creature, or any attack by something
too large to be deflected. The bonus is also ignored if an attack is
aimed for any target below the waist, because the tail cannot reach
there. As an added bonus, both the owners hands are left free.
Sleekoil Product/Tool: AC n/a, HD n/a
This stuff looks just like mercury. It is silvery, and has a severely rounded surface. It
has the unusual property of being completely frictionless. It will not stick to any
surface or substance, except sovereign glue. When poured over an object, no
trace of it is left behind.
When poured onto any surface, it will slide downhill until it meets a wall or
edge. It is so slippery that even on the most balanced flat surfaces it can find a
downhill. If necessary, the DM should roll 1d12 (and clock directions) to deter-
mine which direction it slides. Its surface tension is strong enough that it will not
pass through small cracks or gaps.
Anyone steppi ng onto sl eekoi l fal l s down. Furthermore, he al so sl i des downhi l l
until he meets an obstacle. There is no saving throw or ability check that will pre-
vent this from happening. There are of course spells and psionic powers that can
levitate a person over the sleekoil, effectively allowing him to remain upright.
Enough sleekoil is usually found to cover a 5 diameter patch of ground.
Soolmons Tissue/Graft: AC 8, HD
Soolmons each raise the hosts Wisdom by one point. A soolmon is a half sphere
about an inch in diameter. The rounded side is tan and smooth, with a thin crack
bisecting it. The flat side is concave and secretes a powerful adhesive. Each of the
three types looks identical.
When placed on the hosts forehead, adhere to the users skull. The rounded
surface of the soolmon opens and reveals a naked eyeball. The insight soolmon
has a purple iris, the patience soolmon is red, and the compassion soolmon is
ellow. The host cannot see with the soolmons, but they move and focus
with his own eyes. The soolmon stimulates that portion of the brain
which deals with a particular type of problem solving.
A soolmon can be removed by applying pressure to the base of the
half sphere. This causes the soolmon to secrete a solvent to the adhe-
sive. A host cannot have more than one of each type of soolmon, and
all together they cannot raise the hosts Wisdom above 24. Having any
number of soolmons lowers the hosts Charisma by one point.
68
Spineshield Creature/Tool: AC 8, HD 1
The spi neshi el d i s a creature that resembl es a fl at turtl e. Its shel l i s about three
feet i n di ameter. The undersi de has four l ong l egs, each wi th si x j oi nts and soft,
uncl awed feet. The head al so protrudes from the undersi de and
has a soft mouth wi th no teeth. It has a movement rate of
one. The top si de of the shel l i s covered wi th over a hundred
sharp, three i nch l ong spi nes.
When an arm i s pl aced across the center of the under-
si de, the l egs grasp i t ti ghtl y. The creature can now be used
as a medi um shi el d. Unl i ke a nor mal shi el d, t he wi el der
does not have to gri p any straps, the beast hol ds on by i tsel f.
It releases the arm if the underside of its head is tickled.
The spi neshi el d can be used as a weapon, by attempti ng
to stri ke an opponent wi th the spi ne encrusted surface. It
does 1d6 poi nts of damage and counts as one attack for that
round. However, the spi neshi el d s most i nteresti ng attack i s
to fi re 1d4+2 spi nes at an opponent. Each one that hi ts
does one poi nt of damage. For faster combat, make one
attack rol l and rol l 1d4+2 poi nts of damage i f i t hi ts.
The shel l of the spi neshi el d i s i mpervi ous to normal
damage. The creature takes no damage from the normal
wear and tear of performi ng i ts functi on. It onl y takes damage from attacks to i ts
soft undersi de or magi cal attacks.
Splitter Creature/ Producer: AC 8, HD 2
A splitter takes the tissue and produces a cutting from it. This is one of the few
safe ways to reproduce a ti ssue. The ti ssue and the cutti ng each have a 25%
chance of not survi vi ng the spl i tter.
Standi ng fi ve and a hal f feet tal l , the spl i tter i s a man-
si zed creature. It i s a broad, round, barrel chested creature
that stands on six legs. It has no separate head, but the
top of i ts torso ends i n a l arge, upward faci ng mouth. The
front of the creature has four eyes, set j ust bel ow the
toothl ess mouth. Two arms sprout from the back of the
beast, bendi ng up and over the mouth. A hasty adventurer
mi ght mi stake i t for Xorn.
When handed a ti ssue, the spl i tter swal l ows i t. A few
days l ater (1d4) the ti ssue and i ts cutti ng are dropped on
he fl oor underneath i t. The spl i tter di gests any ti ssues or
cut t i ngs t hat do not sur vi ve. A spl i t t er wi l l eat j ust about
anythi ng organi c. Most poi sons and toxi c substances
(90%) do not affect a spl i tter. In contrast, most poti on
fruits and the like (90%) do not affect it either.
Suction Disk
Thi s smal l i tem i s a di sk about the si ze of a man s pal m. Both si des are sl i ghtl y
Tissue/Tool: AC 7, HD
concave. When pressed between two obj ects, i t generates a powerful sucti on
that effecti vel y sti cks them together. If set agai nst j ust one
obj ect, i t wi l l gri p i t gentl y wi th i ts pl i abl e edge. If
the edge is stroked gently, it releases its hold an
the obj ects are once agai n separate.
A suct i on di sk cannot wor k on an obj ect
that i s hi ghl y porous, l i ke a pi ece of cl oth.
However, i t s soft l i p wi l l seek out and fi l l i n
crevi ces and uneven surfaces of non-porous
obj ects. The strength of the gri p i s the equi v-
al ent to that of a character wi th a Strength
of 23.
69
Tail, Agile Tissue/Graft: AC 7, HD 1
The agile tail is four to six feet long, and as thick around as a mans forearm. It is
onl y moderatel y fl exi bl e and cannot be used to grasp any-
thi ng. It i s covered wi th smal l , fi ne yel l ow hai rs.
Unl i ke the other tai l grafts, an agi l e tai l i s not trul y
control l ed by i t s host. When i t has ful l freedom of
moti on, the tai l al l ows the host to bal ance perfectl y,
as i f he had a Dexteri ty of 24. He can wal k a ti ghtrope
or stand on one foot wi th hi s eyes cl osed. The onl y ti me
the host needs to make a Dexteri ty check for l osi ng hi s bal ance
is if he is forcefully struck or surprised, say by a trap door in the floor. It does
not i mprove hi s manual Dexteri ty, and therefore has no effect on combat
scores, movement, or savi ng throws.
Tail, gladiators Tissue/Graft: AC 4, HD 2
This tissue is a six to eight foot long, scaled tail. The scales are thick enough to
count as armor, and are general l y shades of bl ue and bl ack. The ti p i s barbed,
and 15% of al l gl adi ator s tai l s have poi son gl ands (type C).
A character wi th a gl adi ator s tai l l oses one poi nt of
Char i sma.
The base of the tai l has a puckered mouth. When
appl i ed to the base of the host s spi ne, i t sends tendri l s
through fl esh and bone to connect to the spi nal cord and
j oi n the bones and muscl es.
A gl adi ator s tai l i s not prehensi l e and cannot grasp any-
thi ng. However, the host can use i t to attack any enemy to
the rear or ei ther si de. It attacks wi th the host s THAC0 on the
fl anks, but suffers a -2 penal ty for bl i nd attacks di rectl y behi nd hi m.
The host gai ns hal f an attack per round wi th the tai l . For exampl e, a
host wi th one attack per round normal l y, now has 3/2 attacks.
However, the tai l must be the attack used every other
r ound. A host wi t h 3/ 2 at t acks per r ound nor mal l y, now
has two attacks per round. The tai l must be one of the
two attacks every other round. The tai l can attack a
maxi mum of once a round, but the extra hal f an attack i s
l ost from hi s normal attacks per round.
A gl adi ator s tai l does 1d8 poi nts of damage to smal l and medi um targets and
1d10 to l arger targets. Bonuses for hi gh Strength scores to both hi t and damage
count when usi ng a gl adi ator s tai l .
Tail, Grasping Tissue/Graft: AC 7, HD 1
A grasping tail graft is four to six feet long, and as thick around as a
man s forearm. A j oi nted spi nal col umn runs through the center. Most
graspi ng tai l s are furred, but some scal ed speci mens have been found.
Graspi ng tai l grafts do not reduce the host s Chari sma.
The base of the tai l i s puckered. When appl i ed to the base of the
host s spi ne, i t cl amps on wi th a powerful sucti on.
Once in place, the grasping tail is strong enough to support the dangling
weight of its host for a short time. It is prehensile and can lift any object as
if it had a Strength of 12. It can swing a weapon, but has such poor aim
that its THAC0 is always 20.
70
Tail, Runt Tissue/Graft: AC 8, HD
This tissue can be easily mistaken for small, lethargic snake. However, if given more
than a glance, it becomes obvious that it is not. A runt tail can be from three to five
feet long. It is usually scaled, but a few furred specimens are known to exist. It is
pliable with powerful muscles, but does not have any bones.
The base of the tail is puckered. When applied to the base of the hosts spine, it
cl amps on wi th a powerful sucti on.
In the Blue Age, a tail graft was most likely a cosmetic graft rather than a highly
functional one. The host can swish his tail and use it to lift objects weighing five
pounds or less. It cannot be used in combat or throw anything with accuracy.
Having a runt tail does not affect the hosts Charisma.
Tendonils
Tissue/Graft: AC 7, HD1
These ropey strands improve the Strength of their host. Each tendonil is from 6 to
18 long when dormant. Its surface is a mottled gray skin, smooth and slick like
oiled leather. The soft tissue underneath surrounds a stiff, but flexible core. At each
end is a spike. They are usually found in pairs (left and right side), or a set of ten
miniatures, one for each finger. Only if the tendonil is destroyed by damage, can it
be removed. Damage done to the tendonil is also applied to the host.
The tendonil grafts are inserted into various muscle groups of the hosts
body, near the joints. The process is painless, thanks to anesthetics secret-
ed by the tendonils. The host cannot use the muscles for the next 20-30
hours as the tendonils come out of dormancy. During that time the
tendonil draws nutrients from its host and contracts to become an
exact fit for the hosts muscle group. Each pair of tendonils must be
inserted into a different muscle group. Except for the hand tendonils,
any tendonil can be inserted into any muscle group. For every three ten-
donil pairs on a host, he gains one point of Strength. There are only nine
allowable muscle groups, so a host cannot gain more than three points of
Strength and cannot exceed a Strength of 24. If a host has three or more
pairs of tendonils, he loses one point of Charisma, assuming they are
not covered.
Optional Rule The DM can deal with the specific effects of indi-
vidual tendonils. For example, it might be interesting to only give a PC
only right side tendonils, and only those that aid in lifting (not punching
or swinging a weapon). In this case, a single tendonil can improve a specific type of
Strength by one point. The nine pairs are: upper arms, forearms, shoulders, chest,
back, buttocks, thighs, calves, hands. The hand tendonils are a joined set of five.
Tongue of Neural Lashing Creature/Craft: AC 6, HD 1
This bizarre creature, called a lasher for short, looks like a four foot long snake,
although the beast is only as thick around as a mans finger. The tip of its tail is
split into three short tentacles, each no more than three inches long. If the
tail is placed in a hosts mouth, the tentacles grasp his tongue. The lash-
er begi ns to rebui l d the bottom of hi s mouth. Most hosts fai nt from
the pai n, whi ch i s excruci ati ng.
When the lasher has finally grafted in place a day later, the host
seems to have a huge doubl e chi n. It makes hi m l ook l i ke some sort
of frog. This enlarged sac below his lower jaw is the new home for
the lasher. One of the stubby tail tentacles now serves as the hosts
tongue for speaki ng, al though he sounds as i f he were tal ki ng
from the bottom of an urn. The host has completely lost his sense
of taste.
At wi l l , the tongue of neural l ashi ng can shoot out and attempt
to bite a target. It uses its hosts attack roll and counts as a full
attack for that round. If successful, the bite itself does no damage.
However, i t i nj ects a speci al nerve toxi n i nto the vi cti m. If the vi c-
tims saving throw fails, in 2d6 rounds he is paralyzed. The lasher has
enough poison to inject three victims. It takes the beast a full day to
regenerate i t s toxi n.
7I
Trackboots Creature/ Tool : AC 8, HD 1
At f i rst gl ance, t rackboot s l ook l i ke normal boots. They are pal e gray and wri n-
kl ed, l i ke tough l eather. Upon cl oser i nspecti on, an observer can see that the top
of the boot actual l y merges wi th the ski n of the host s l eg. The fri nge of the
sol e i s serrated, l i ke the upper j aw of a pri mi ti ve l i zard.
Smal l pi ts and di scol ored spots l i ne the edges and bot-
tom of the boot.
When not on a person s foot, the top porti on of the
boot (from ankl e to knee) spl i ts and unwraps i nto four
flat legs. It rests on these legs like a spider, with the
knee j oi nts above the back of i ts body. Whi l e on a
person s foot, the l egs seal ti ght enough to keep out
wat er .
Trackboot s have the uni que abi l i ty to track any
materi al creature. Li ke other tracki ng ani mal s, they
need to be gi ven the scent fi rst. The wearer must
show the boots some sampl e of the creature or hi s
l eavi ngs, usual l y by steppi ng i n them. The spore can
be as subtle as a footprint that is less than 24 hours
hol d. Cl othi ng and other possessi ons must have been
hel d by the quarry no l ess than a week ago, l onger i f
the possessi on i s parti cul arl y fragrant.
The creatures can be l eft to hunt by themsel ves,
movi ng at a speed of si x. Or they can track whi l e on
thei r owner s feet. The boots tug and pul l the owner i n
the di recti on of the quarry. Trackboot s hunt usi ng
many senses, i ncl udi ng smel l , sound, si ght, and a
psi oni c l ocati ng sense. If one or two of these senses
has been el i mi nated, they can sti l l track by the remai ni ng senses. Each day, each
t rackboot has a 10% chance of l osi ng i ts quarry. The DM can modi fy that
dependi ng upon weather, qual i ty of the spore or other factors.
Velocets Tissue/Graft: AC 7, HD 1
Physi cal l y, a vel ocet l ooks l i ke a tendoni l . Its surface i s a mottl ed gray ski n, but
dry and scal y. The soft ti ssue underneath surrounds a sti ff, but fl exi -
bl e core. At each end i s a spi ke. They are usual l y found i n pai rs, l eft
and ri ght si des.
The velocet grafts are inserted into the muscles of the hosts legs,
near the j oi nts. The process i s qui te pai nful . The host cannot use
those muscl es for the next 20-30 hours whi l e the vel ocet cont ract s
to become an exact fi t for the host s l egs. Vel ocet s can be i nserted
i nto any of three muscl e groups, l ower l eg, upper l eg, and buttocks.
Each pai r of vel ocet s i ncreases the maxi mum runni ng speed of the
host by one poi nt.
Vel ocet s are i ncompati bl e wi th tendoni l s, fl exars, pl atons, and
other exteri or grafts that hook i nto the same part of the host s body.
Onl y i f the vel ocet i s destroyed by damage, can i t be removed.
Damage done to the vel ocet i s al so appl i ed to the host.
72
Venom Whi p Tissue/Graft: AC 4, HD 1
The venom whip looks like a long, thin snake. It is eight to twelve
feet l ong, and bl ack wi th a red di amond pattern. The ti p of
the tail has a six inch long bone. The head is narrow and
flat, and only has one eye.
When hel d by the bony tai l , the venom whi p can be wi el ded l i ke
a normal whi p. However, the head wi l l seek out the nearest target
at the end of its trajectory. As a result, the whip is +2 on all
attack rolls. It does 1d4 points of damage with its bite.
Venom whi ps come i n many vari eti es, al l based upon the
type of venom they can inject. There is even a mutant type
that has no venom at all. Roll on the table below to
determi ne what type of poi son the venom whi p can
inject.
1d20 Poison Onset Strength
1 None
2-3
Type A
10-30 minutes 15/ 0
4- 6
Type B
2- 12 mi nut es 20/ 1- 3
7-12
Type C
2-5 mi nutes 25/ 2- 8
13- 14
Type D
1-2 mi nutes 30/ 2- 12
15
Type E
I mmedi at e Deat h/ 20
16
Type F
I mmedi at e Deat h/ 0
17- 19
Type O
2-24 mi nutes Paral yti c
2 0
Type P
1-3 hours Debi l i t at i ve
Vigrons Tissue/Graft: AC 9, HD
There are three specific vigrons. Each adds one point of Constitution to the host.
Each vi gron i s a smal l , seed-l i ke obj ect covered wi th hundreds of l ong, fi ne hai rs.
The heart vigron is a flat, and disk shaped. The lung vigron is spherical. The kidney
vi gron i s a l ong l ozenge.
Each vi gron i mproves the functi on of the attached
organ. The heart vigron must be pressed against a major
artery. The neck and wrist are the best choices. The vigron
slips into the flesh and melds with the artery. The heart
vi gron hel ps the body cl ean the user s bl ood.
The l ung vi gron i s i nhal ed through the nose or mouth.
The host cannot exert hi msel f and can onl y take shal l ow
breaths for the next day, or he will fall unconscious. The
l ung vi gron works to fi l ter i mpuri ti es from the user s
lungs and filter and clean the air he breathes.
The kidney vigron is swallowed, usually with water.
The host is stricken with severe stomach pains for the
next day while it grafts onto his kidney. The kidney vigron
assists the kidney in removing waste products from the
users body. A vigron cannot be removed without killing
or maiming the host. A host can only have one of each
vigron, and all together they cannot raise the hosts
Consti tuti on above 24.
Heart vi grons can onl y be detected by smal l di scol orati ons l eft on the wri st or
neck. Addi ti onal l y, the hosts bl ood i s now a deep green rather than red. Lung
vi grons are detected by the noxi ous breath of the host, whi ch can be smel l ed up
cl ose. Ki dney vi grons l eave l arge, bl ui sh l umps on the host s l ower back.
73
Warneye Creature/Tool: AC 6, HD
At first glance, a warneye looks like a normal sized crab. However, the back of its
shell can open to reveal a single large eye, roughly three inches across. The eye is yel-
low and slitted like a cats A warneye has four legs, and a small set of pinching claws.
Usual l y a warneye i s pl aced on the back of
person s neck, al though i t can be mounted
anywhere. It uses its claws to grip the
hai r or head ornament of i t s owner. It
weighs so little that after a while the
person forgets it is there. Whenever the
warneye feels threatened, it shuffles its
feet. This feels like some is tapping on the
character s neck or shoul der. Threateni ng acti ons are
qui ck, aggressi ve movements wi thi n ten feet. It can
see up to 40 feet with infravision.
Wi t h a warneye, a character cannot usual l y be surpri sed from behi nd.
From other directions, the chances of being surprised are cut in half (round up).
Remember that acti ons at a di stance or done sl owl y wi l l not tri gger the warneye.
An archer forty feet away will not set it off. Neither will a stealthy thief trying to
sl owl y pi ck a pocket.
Watchpack Creature/Tool: AC 6, HD 1
When not in use, this strange beast looks as if it were made all backwards. It
walks on four legs, each of which has a three toed, multi-jointed foot. These legs
are compl etel y backwards, so that the creature s back faces the ground and i ts
belly faces the sky. Its head is low and flat, with absolutely no neck. It just joints
right to the torso. The ridged mouth is huge, hiding a three foot long prehensile
tongue. Its eyes can face forward, or roll to look straight up.
The reason for the creatures strange build is that it is used as a living backpack.
It climbs up onto its owners back and locks its legs around him. The fit is extreme-
l y comfortabl e. Once i n pl ace, i t l ooks very much l i ke a backpack, wi th the mouth
where the openi ng shoul d be, and a pai r of l arge, watchful eyes above i t.
A wat chpack wi l l bond wi th a person that treats i t wel l for three consecuti ve
days. The final step in the bonding process involves the creature licking its new
owner s ski n for an extended peri od of ti me. Once bonded, the wat chpack remai ns
l oyal to i ts owner. Onl y the si ght and smel l of i ts owner s dead body wi l l rel ease i t
from i ts bond.
Watchpacks are not any more intelligent than other animals, but they have been
shaped to have a high degree of associative memory. In-other-
words, they can l earn many si mpl e commands easi l y and
quickly. In particular, they are predisposed to learn two
important commands, store and fetch. Since these can
be different words in different languages, the watch-
pack does need to be taught.
When its owner says store, the long tongue whips
out and wraps around whatever is in its owners hand.
If its owner releases the object, the watchpack tucks it
away i nsi de i ts l arge mouth. Whi l e they are both hol d-
ing the object, its owner can name the object (three
words maxi mum). Later, i f the owner wants that
object, he merely has to call out fetch and the objects
name. The wat chpack wi l l qui ckl y fi nd the i tem and put
it directly into its owners hand. A watchpack can hold as
much as a normal backpack. Even the most fragile items
inside it are kept dry and unbroken.
The watchpack will protect its owners possessions.
Anyone other than the owner attempti ng to reach i nto the
pack will get bitten. There is no attack roll. The thief just takes 1d6 points of dam-
age. The ridged mouth clamps down and will not release unless the thiefs hand is
empt y.
74
Water Condenser Creature/Tool: AC 10, HD 1
A condenser looks like a three foot wide bowl. The beasts
mouth is in the center of the cavity. It has no legs, but can
move a foot a round by undulating its base.
It pulls water from the air and discharges it into its
concave interior. The condenser keeps a thin, transparent
skin over the water to prevent it from evaporating. The skin
can be punctured without harming the creature. It seals
itself within three rounds.
The bowl can store up to 50 gallons. In a typical Athasian envi-
ronment, the bowl condenses approxi matel y one ounce every round. It takes about
five days to fill the bowl. In the driest parts of Athas, it can only extract one ounce
every ten rounds. Near the Cerulean Storm it can extract two ounces per round.
Water Sniffer Creature/Tool: AC 7, HD 2
A water sniffer looks like a small snake. It is only two feet long, and has a twisting
pattern of blue and green scales. The end of the sniffers tail has a brown, tex-
tured spot, just the right size for a persons hand. It has no teeth and is generally
harmless.
When the sniffer is held by the brown handle at the end of its tail, it
begins to sniff for water. It can detect water up to 300 yards away, and
at a comparable depth. The sniffer will tug and pull at whoever is holding it,
trying to lead them to water.
Weeper Creature/Producer: AC 7, HD 3
This bloated slug is over eight feet long. It has three enormous eyes and a mouth,
but no other visible organs. When a weeper is fed properly, its eyes leak a clear,
yellow fluid called firetears. The proper diet is oil, coal, and certain grasses.
Fi retears dry qui ckl y i n the athasi an cl i mate. However, a di l i -
gent owner can collect a vial full of firetears once a day. It
only takes an hour to collect the vial, but the weeper
wi l l onl y weep once a day.
Firetears are extremely sensitive to blows. If thrown,
the vi al expl odes on i mpact. The expl osi on does l i ttl e
damage, but the firetears ignite. The heat is so intense
that sand is fused into glass. Anything in the ten foot
diameter area takes 3d6 points of damage per round.
Up to five feet further out takes 1d6 points of damage
just from being nearby. Firetears do not burn for long,
onl y one or two rounds. Obvi ousl y anythi ng fl amma-
ble within ten feet of the center of the explosion bursts
into flames.
Carrying a vial of firetears is hazardous to a charac-
ters health. Even if kept in a soft waterskin, there is a
chance i t wi l l expl ode i f j ostl ed too much. Normal
walking, or riding on a mount is relatively safe. There is
only a 1% chance per hour of it igniting. However, if the character falls, jumps and
l ands hard, or experi ences some other comparabl y vi ol ent acti on there i s a 20%
chance of it exploding. In combat there is a 20% chance of it going off each round
that the character is struck. Even on rounds when he is not struck, there is a 10%
chance of i t expl odi ng.
A double sized vial can be assembled, but it doubles the hazard. The vial
explodes for 5d6 points of damage in a 15 foot diameter area, 2d6 for being nearby
(20 foot diameter). The chances of it exploding with normal care are 2% per hour,
40% when struck or fal l i ng, 20% j ust for bei ng i n combat. Attempti ng to prepare a
dose any larger causes the firetears to explode immediately.
The weeper itself can be a dangerous beast to own. Only a foolish owner would
ever whip one. The blow is almost certain to cause the weeper to explode. Even
when treated wi th care, there i s a 2% chance each month that i t wi l l expl ode for
no apparent reason.
75
Llfe-Shaped Arllfacls
Of al l the l i fe-shaped creati ons descri bed above none of them are trul y i ntel l i gent.
Better stated, the best of them has the intelligence of an average domesticated ani-
mal. This is just enough to do the job it was created for, but not enough to chal-
lenge its owner.
At some poi nt duri ng the Bl ue Age, schol ars hypothesi ze that i t was toward the
end, the rhul i sti began to experi ment wi th i ntel l i gent l i fe-shaped creati on. These
i tems have an i ntel l i gence ri val i ng that of thei r creators. They are known as the
Rhul-tal. The exact translation of this word has been lost. What is known is that it
defi nes a cl ose rel ati onshi p wi th the rhul i sti , fami l y, mate, guardi an or some such.
The Rhul-tal are very dangerous. They have a sense of self and full survival
i nsti ncts. Noone can trul y own a Rhul -tal , at l east not l i ke other l i fe-shaped crea-
tures are owned. A cautious friendship is the best one can hope for. It always pays
to be cauti ous, because the Rhul -tal have thei r own goal s and agenda.
In game terms, the Rhul-tal are life-shaped artifacts. Each is very powerful and
very dangerous. Just l i ke normal arti facts, the Rhul -tal must be deal t wi th careful l y
in a campaign. Each Rhul-tal is unique. It has a history and a purpose. If the DM
deci des to add Rhul -tal to hi s campai gn, he shoul d pi ck onl y a sel ect few. the
Rhul -tal wi l l most l i kel y domi nate hi s campai gn for as l ong as the characters are
connected to i t. It has the potenti al to create wonderful stori es.
76
The Cenlennlal 8raln
Creature/Rhul-tal: AC 5, HD 16
This Rhul-tal is literally a giant brain. Measuring eight feet in diameter, it is covered
wi th dozens of gl owi ng bl ue and green runes. The hundreds of ri dges pul se and
wri the i n thei r own pal e l i ght.
Without a body, the brain cannot do anything. It must have a body to move or
channel any of its psionic powers.
Hlslory
An unknown life shaper created the brain to solve the great philosophical and theoreti-
cal problems of the Blue Age. He melded the brains of 101 of the greatest thinkers of
that time. Sadly, none of these dignitaries consented to be a part of his creation.
The evil life shapers name was stricken from all histories, and no rhulisti
was permitted to give his name to any of their children. He is referred to
only as the Unnamed. The brain was kept in honored memory of the
rhulisti mutilated to create it.
The brain survived the Blue Age, and all those that came
afterward. It has absorbed countless minds, growing ever larg-
er. Over the mi l l enni a i t has devel oped powerful psi oni c
abilities, but disdains the use of magic.
Campalgn Use
be the savior in times of ultimate crisis, assuming that
The Centennial Brain can be used in many ways in a
campaign. It can be a villain, or the servant of one. It can
such actions serve its own purposes.
Probably the best way to use it, is as the supreme
sage. It knows just about everything. Those things it
does not know, it knows how to find out. Of course, the
brain will not choose to answer every question. It will
only answer those that forward its own goals. Many,
many adventures can be started by the Centennial Brain.
Povers
Constant: The brains Intelligence is not measurable. It would
l i ke aski ng how much a moonbeam wei ght s. I t s j ust not
relevant. The brain can answer almost any question, or at Ieast
provide the asker with directions to find the answer for himself.
The supplicant need only make physical contact with the brain to
allow telepathic communication. For silly questions, such as what is the meaning of
life, the brain merely responds you wouldnt understand it if I told you, or thats
the wrong question. In order to ask the right question, you must first have most of
the answer.
Invoked: The owner of the brain can use it to duplicate any known psionic sci-
ence or discipline. However, all success rolls are made with the owners ability
scores, level, or other attributes. A character must lay both hands on the brain to
channel a psi oni c power.
Curse: Every time the brain lends its psionic power to an owner, that character
loses 1d10 percent of his mental resistance. Just talking to it or asking questions is
not cause for a roll. The DM rolls this number secretly and keeps a running total.
When the character has lost 100% of his mental resistance, his mind is absorbed
into the brain and he becomes a mental vegetable. The brain then uses the mindless
husk as a slave to give it freedom of action. Such slaves rarely last more than a year,
no matter how well the brain takes care of them. The easiest way to defeat the brain
is to kill the slave body.
77
The Corundum Vormskln
Creature/Rhul-tal: AC -4, HD 1-20
When it is first encountered, the corundum wormskin is no longer than a mans
finger. It is a four inch long corundum cylinder. One end is closed and
rounded, the open end is serrated with six dull flanges. Corundum is one
of the hardest natural minerals, second only to diamond. Rubies and sap-
phi res are i mpure corundum col ored wi th other mi neral s.
If the corundum wormskin is placed on a finger, the serrated edges will gen-
tly close over it. The character now has a permanent finger sheath. No action, spell
or power can remove the wormski n from thi s ti me forward.
The wormskin will begin to transform its new owner. After a year, the
player character must become an NPC. In two years, he becomes a
small sink worm, but with a skin of corundum. For the next two
years, the worm grows to its full size (20 HD). At that point it
will allow the largest male sink worm in the vicinity to mate
with it. After depositing an egg, it dives for the deep earth and
is never seen again. Some sages speculate that the corundum
sink worm dies and becomes a deep vein of gemstones.
Others believe that there is a deep cavern graveyard where it
goes to die. Such a place would be a treasure trove of gems.
The egg hatches after only three months of gestation. The player
character emerges and is now returned to the player. His finger is
made of solid corundum, but will not grow again. The character is
now a Worm Lord and has new powers and abilities. His armor
class is as it was before, and his attributes have returned to nor-
mal .
Hlslory
Legend has it that some of the life shapers of the Blue Age
to be excavating tools and producers of gemstones. Something
went horri bl y wrong. One of the worms hatched a corundum si nk worm that
coul d not be control l ed. Eventual l y the corundum si nk worm was destroyed.
However, a small part of it remained, indestructible even by the life shapers of
the Blue Age. Alive, and very much wanting to roam free again, it waits for its
next vi cti m.
began to create extremely large creatures to be used as tools.
They succeeded i n maki ng si nk worms, whi ch were i ntended
Campalgn Use
The Corundum Wormskin is unique among artifacts in that it exacts a stiff penalty up
front, but gives huge rewards afterward. For three years, the player
loses control of his character. When he gets the character back,
it is a powerful Worm Lord. Be careful in giving this artifact to
a player character. Not all players are willing to pay this price.
The characters can encounter the wormskin with an NPC
in the latter half of its transformation. The NPC would then
return years later as a Worm Lord. He could be a nemesis
or a friend.
Transformallon Povers
Constant: If a hit location system is being used, the covered parts
of the characters body are armor class -2. Otherwise, the charac-
ters natural armor class slowly improves until it reaches -2, when he is
completely encased. The table below shows the characters new mini-
mum armor class. He can punch or kick for twice his normal damage.
78
Curse: Sl owl y the wormski n wi l l grow, coveri ng the character s hand, the hi s
arm, across his chest, over his other arm, down his legs, and over his feet. The
last part of his body to be covered is his face. The whole process takes just under
a year.
Once the character i s compl etel y encased, the Rhul -tal begi ns to transform
hi m. Wi thi n a year, he l oses the l ast vesti ges of humani ty. He has become a smal l
si nk worm. For the next two years, i t grows i n si ze and hi t di ce unti l i t becomes a
ful l grown, corundum si nk worm (AC -2, HD 20).
Al though the mi neral coati ng i s rock hard, i t somehow bends easi l y wi th the
character, but sti l l reduces hi s Dexteri ty somewhat. Hi s Chari sma i s al so reduced
the more of hi m i s covered. After 12 months, when he l oses hi s hands, the pl ayer
character becomes an NPC for a whi l e.
Mi n. Char i sma Dext er i t y Wormski n
Month AC Penalty Penalty Transformation
Hand cover ed
Ar m cover ed
Chest covered
Ot her ar m cover ed
Ot her hand cover ed
St omach cover ed
Hi ps cover ed
Thi ghs covered
Cal ves and feet covered
Face covered
Fi ngers & toes mel d together
Hands shr i nk
Forearms shri nk
Remai nder of arms shri nk
Thi ghs mel d together
Cal ves and feet mel d together
Face transforms
1 9 0 0
2 & 0 -1
3 7 -1 -1
4 6 -1 -1
5 5 -1 -2
6 4 -2 -2
7 3 -2 -2
& 2 -2 -3
9 1 -2 -3
10 0 -3 -3
11-12 -1 -3 -5
13- 14 -2 - 4 -5
15- 16 -2 - 5 - 5
17- 18 -2 - 6 -5
19- 20 -2 - 7 - 6
21- 22 -2 - 8 - 8
23- 24 -2 - 9 - 8
Vorm Lord Povers
Const ant : The character can sense the vi brati ons of anythi ng movi ng over sand or
silt. He must have his bare feet on the sand to do this. The range is 120 feet in
sand, 90 feet i n si l t. He can burrow under the sand at hi s normal ground speed.
Burrowi ng does not l eave a passage sui tabl e for other character s to fol l ow. The
Worm Lord has no troubl e breathi ng i n sand or si l t.
I nvoked: The Worm Lord can phase through 90 feet of rock (1/day). Whi l e phas-
i ng, he moves at hi s normal movement rate. He can summon a si nk worm
(1/week) by danci ng on the sand for 10 rounds. It takes the worm 1d10+10
rounds to appear after the dance i n compl eted. The si nk worm wi l l obey the
Worm Lord, even to the poi nt of bei ng hi s mount. As soon as the si nk worm i s
out of si ght, he l oses control . The worm wi l l not serve for more than 24 hours
under any condi t i ons.
Random: One detecti on power from Tabl e 6, one di vi nati on power from Tabl e
8, one el emental earth power from Tabl e 11, and a mi nor spel l -l i ke power from
Tabl e 18. Defaul t powers are +1 bonus to surpri se rol l s, stone tel l (3/day), curse
of the bl ack sand/si l t by touch (3/day), and dust devi l (5/day).
Curse: The bulk of this Rhul-tals curse happens before the Worm Lord stage.
However, bei ng a Worm Lord i s not wi thout i t s dangers. There i s a 1% chance
per si nk worm summoni ng that the worm the character mated wi th appears. Thi s
parti cul ar si nk worm i s i mmune to the character s control power and wi l l attack,
al most certai nl y wi th surpri se.
79
The Creen Rhul
Creature/Rhul-tal: AC 0, HD 8
The Green Rhul is a nine foot tall plant that can be used like a suit of armor. It is
shaped like a complete person, with legs, arms, a head, eyes, a mouth, etc. It bears a
striking resemblance to the shambling mound, a monster not found on Athas. It is
highly intelligent (18) and completely self-willed. It only speaks the language of
the rhul i sti .
Normally the Green Rhul is used by climbing inside it.
There is a seam running down its back, from its neck to the
base of its spine. If the Rhul is willing, it can be pried
open. The Rhul can prevent the seam from opening, which
i t normal l y onl y does when occupi ed. Once i nsi de, thousands
of tiny tendrils penetrate the skin of the occupant and
join to his nervous system. The Green Rhul can communi-
cate with its occupant directly through his nervous system.
Its sort of a biological, non-psionic form of telepathy. This
form of communi cati on transcends l anguage. The occupant
can see through the Rhuls eyes, hear through its ears, etc.
Alternately the Green Rhul can be instructed from afar. It is
never commanded, being a fully intelligent creature in its own
right. If it does not want to do as it is asked, it does nothing. The
Green Rhuk high Intelligence gives it a 75% chance of under-
standing most pantomimes and hand signs.
It is important to remember that while the Green Rhul may
seem like a monster or autonomous creature, it is a life-
shaped creation. The host provides the neural hookups that
operate its muscles. Without a host, it is incapable of moving.
Hlslory
Toward the end of the Blue Age, the rhulisti sought answers
to their various problems. The mightiest of the life shapers
created a living suit of armor as his lifes master work. Their
only mistake was in giving it an intelligence that rivaled his
own.
The Green Rhul is apparently the ultimate machine of
war from the Blue Age. What wars it fought in, and how it
fared, are not among any of the few intact records. The
Rhul-tal surely know, but does not speak of any events from
the Blue Age.
The legends of the druids hold tantalizing clues to the Green
Rhul. They believe that the first druid created the Rhul to pro-
tect the forests of the Blue Age. This conflicts with other stories,
unless the first druid was a rhulisti. The druids seek the Green
Rhul and will do almost anything to control it.
The druids speak of a time when one of their ranks found
the Green Rhul. With it, the druids sacked a long forgotten
city-state whose ruler was despoiling any oasis he could find.
When the host found herself slowly changing into a halfling,
the story says she marched the Rhul into Sea of Silt and was
never heard from again.
Campalgn Use
There are two principle ways to use the Green Rhul in a cam-
paign. The first is to have a villain (probably a halfling, or
even a Rhul-thaun) show up with it and cause all kinds of
trouble. Secondly, the Green Khul can be the salvation item
80
for a particular danger. For example, they learn that the only way to defeat a
Kaisharga is with the Green Rhul. The characters are then off and running to find this
dangerous artifact.
This artifact is dangerous for any player character to use for an extended period of
time. Make sure to have the first event of artifact possession or artifact transformation
be very scary. Eventually they will try destroy the Green Rhul or find a safe place to
abandon i t.
The druids will always be interested in the Green Rhul. They may actually be able
to store it safely. They are certain to oppose anyone abusing it.
Povers
Const ant : Whi l e i nsi de the Green Rhul , the wearer has an armor cl ass of 0. Al l
physi cal attacks affect the Rhul and not i t s occupant. Psi oni c and non-physi cal
magi cal attacks can affect the occupant, but onl y i f speci fi cal l y targeted at hi m.
Furthermore, the Green Rhul has a Strength of 24 (+3 THAC0, +8 damage), but
onl y a speed of 9 both of whi ch transfer to i t s occupant. It s other attri butes are
DEX 13, CON 24, I NT 19, WI S 11, CHR 3, none of whi ch l i mi t a charact er i nsi de
it.
The Green Rhul i s i mmune to gasses, poi son, di sease, as wel l as any envi ron-
mental effects. It protects its host from all of the above so long as he is inside it.
A host does not need to breath, eat or dri nk whi l e i nsi de the Green Rhul .
I nvoked: The keen battl e mi nd of the Green Rhul gi ves i ts host a di sti nct
advantage. The DM must tel l the pl ayer what acti ons al l enemi es are goi ng to
take for the round. Wi th that i nformati on i n hand, the pl ayer now deci des what
hi s character wi l l do. He cannot warn the other characters wi th thi s pri vi l eged
information.
The Green Rhul can si nk roots i nto the soi l to extract water and nutri ents. An
hour of bei ng pl anted i n the sunshi ne i s enough to feed i tsel f and i t s occupant
for a day. The sunshine is necessary for it to heal, but not for it to exist.
Random: The Green Rhul di d not ori gi nal l y have psi oni c powers. However,
thousands of years of sol i tude and contempl ati on have al l owed i t to devel op
psi oni c powers. Now i t has 100 PSPs, one random sci ence from Tabl e 25 and
three random devoti ons from Tabl e 24. Defaul t recommendati ons for these pow-
ers are detonate, danger sense, di mensi onal door, al l -around vi si on. The character
can use these psionic powers at will, using the Rhuls PSPs instead of his own.
Curse: The Green Rhul has a dual curse. Any non-hal fl i ng occupant i s subj ect
to arti fact transformati on. The Rhul was bui l t for anci ent hal fl i ngs and wi l l sl owl y
transform any owner i nto one. Si mul taneousl y, an owner of any sort i s subj ect to
art i f act possessi on. The Green Rhul i s an i ntel l i gent creature, but not total l y i n
control of its own destiny. It longs to be free. To this end, it tries to dominate and
possess any occupant. Eventual l y the tabl es wi l l be turned and the Green Rhul
will have an occupant as its slave. It can then wander Athas as a free creature, in
search of its own destiny.
Bri ngi ng the Green Rhul bel ow zero hi t poi nts merel y makes i t i nacti ve. It can
heal and regenerate any amount of damage at the rate of one hi t poi nt per day.
Even if it is burned and the ashes scattered, somewhere a small spore will survive
and regrow the enti re Rhul .
The touch of the descendent of the first true druid will turn the Green Rhul to
dust.
A genuine rhulisti (not a halfling descendant or rhulthaun) must sacrifice himself
to be the final host of the Green Rhul.
It must be burned by the breath of a Dragon.
8I
The 1ade Marquess
Creature/Rhul-tal: AC 4, HD 3 to 30
There is no stranger sight in all of Athas than the Jade
Marquess. It is a sailing ship made of a dark, green
materi al remi ni scent of j ade. However, thi s shi p was
never meant for the water. Its prow can part the earth as
if it were water. It actually sails on land.
The size of the Jade Marquess fluctuates. At her largest
she is 120 feet long, and at her smallest only 12 feet.
When food i s pl enti ful , the Marquess grows a foot every
week. Each week she gets no food, she shrinks a foot. At
12 feet long, she enters into a state of hibernation, nei-
ther eati ng nor shri nki ng. Her hi t di ce are al ways one
quarter of her l ength.
As the Jade Marquess grows, she adds new features.
At her smallest, she is just a simple canoe. At 20 feet,
she grows a small mast and sail. At 30 feet a small cabin
forms. Each time the Jade Marquess grows, the particular
features are different than the time before. At her largest,
she has three masts, and four deck levels.
The prow (front) of the Jade Marquess is carved in the
shape of a halfling face. In fact, this is the face of the
rhulisti. It can see, hear, smell, and talk with this face.
Her voice is soft and quiet when she is small, but deep
and commandi ng when f ul l gr own.
Hlslory
Ironically, a ship that is tailor made for the waterless
envi ronment of Athas was made at a ti me when the
world had oceans. The Jade Marquess was a crown-
ing achievement of the life shapers of the Blue Age.
Hi story does not say who they bui l t i t for.
The elves have the most tales of the Jade Marquess.
Thei r myths hol d that when thei r race was fi rst born
and new to the l and, they rode upon great beasts that
moved through uni magi nabl y l arge pool s of water.
Then the Jade Marquess appeared, a gift of an evil lord
from the el emental pl ane of earth. The el ves eagerl y
boarded her and fel l prey to her curse. Al l the l and
trembl ed when the l i vi ng shi p and her el ven crew
broke the hori zon. Eventual l y the captai n and hi s crew
sacrificed themselves to the ship. From that day for-
ward, el ves have never ri dden upon a l i vi ng creature
or ridden a mount. Of course this is just a myth. There
is no way to tell if there is any truth in it.
There are a few other legends and tales of the Jade
Marquess. One even has i t battl i ng the Dragon hi msel f
to a standstill. Most historians believe this to be a false
tale. Although it is not a battle craft, most of the myths
have i t appeari ng i n ti mes of war and sai l i ng bravel y
i nto battl e.
Campalgn Use
The Jade Marquess can be used to create a flying
dutchman type of story for your campai gn. It i s best
used in the hands of an NPC, because its curse is
82
extremel y severe. However, a pl ayer character wi l l i ng to pl ay the part of a cursed
captai n coul d have a l ot of fun wi th thi s Rhul -tal .
There is no way to hide the Jade Marquess. Everyone that sees it will want it.
Elves in particular will seek the ship. Their most ancient legends and myths tell of
the evil done by the Jade Marquess. Most elves will seek to destroy it, a few tor-
tured souls may seek to own it.
Povers
Constant: When awake, the Jade Marquess can sail across dirt, sand and other
soft earth at a speed of 12. On the Silt Sea she can achieve a speed of 18. She
pushes small enough stones and rocks aside (small is relative to its current size),
but must sai l around rock out-croppi ngs. She cannot sai l up an i ncl i ne of greater
an 30 degrees, and cannot sai l i n water or any other l i qui d. The Jade Marquess
l eaves behi nd a very di sti ncti ve wake of furrowed l and. She never needs a crew.
Whoever i s standi ng at the hel m can command al l of her sai l i ng and combat func-
tions. No storm, spell, or creature can sink the Jade Marquess. When she takes
damage, she shrinks. Every five lost hit points is a foot of lost length. She saves vs.
spells as a creature of her hit dice. No spell can change her shape or nature, or
control her mind. She is unaffected by any form of psionics. If she shrinks too
much, she may l ose some of her weapons (see bel ow).
Random: When the Jade Marquess reaches 40 feet in length, she grows a
strange l ooki ng devi ce on her forecastl e (forward most deck). It has one offensi ve
power from Table 20 that can only fire in a forward 45 degree angle. At 60 feet,
she grows another with the same power to the aft that can only fire in a 45 degree
angl e to the back. At 80 feet i n l ength she grows a di fferent l ooki ng devi ce on one
side that has a different offensive power from Table 20. At 100 feet, she grows an
i denti cal devi ce on the other si de wi th the same power. Both of these are onl y
able to fire in a 45 degree arc to the side they each face. The default power for the
fore and aft weapons is Bigbys crushing hand (l/day), and for the port and star-
board weapons i s l i ghtni ng bol t (1/day).
Curse: The Jade Marquess must devour living flesh to survive. Each week she
must consume her hit dice in living creatures in order to grow. If she eats less than
half that, she will begin to shrink. When this hungry, there is a 25% chance that
she wi l l take off after nearby creatures, i gnori ng her captai n s commands. Her
mouth ri des j ust above ground l evel , and she can chase down prey and gul p them
down. Her THAC0 i s onl y that of a creature wi th hal f her actual hi t di ce. Her bi te
does 1d6 poi nts of damage for every ful l 20 feet of l ength, 1d4 when under 20
feet.
Once the new captain of the Jade Marquess has sailed her, from dawn to dusk of
the same day, he is permanently bonded to her. If he ever steps off of her deck for
more than a day, he is compelled to return as if under a geas spell. When he dies,
he becomes and undead creature always in search of the Jade Marquess. The Jade
Marquess has twi ce as many encounters wi th undead as normal . They are the spi r-
its and corrupt bodies of her former captains and other that she has devoured.
The undead spirit of her first captain can sail her into a large body of water
where she wi l l si nk and then sl owl y di ssol ve.
An elf who is the eldest daughter of an eldest daughter unto 11 generations must
wi l l i ngl y sacri fi ce hersel f to be eaten.
She must be tricked into eating a moonbeam.
83
The Ma-kal Mannequln
Creature/Rhul-tal: AC n/a, HD n/a
This is a strange looking figurine of a full sized halfling
made of what appears to be some sort of hard wood.
A careful observer will notice that its chest rises
and falls, as if it were breathing. In fact all normal
vital signs are present. It breathes, its heart beats, it
i s warm to the touch, etc. However, the mannequi n s
eyes never blink, and it never eats, drinks or excretes.
The mannequi n i s carved wi th hundreds of i ntri cate
tattoos. The detai l i s much fi ner than any modern wood
carver could achieve. The lines of these tattoos are filled
wi th col ored dyes, predomi nantl y green and bl ue. The
mannequi n appears to be i ndestructi bl e. Weapons
wi l l not ni ck i t, spel l s wi l l not harm i t, psi oni c pow-
ers have no effect.
If searched carefully (find secret doors), a secret
compartment is revealed in the center of its chest.
Insi de thi s compartment i s a wooden hearta
beati ng wooden heart. To acti vate the mannequi n,
its new owner must remove his own heart and place
thi s wooden one i n i t s pl ace. Obvi ousl y the owner
does not survive the removal of his own heart.
However, if the mannequins heart is placed inside
the bl oody chest of the-prospecti ve owner wi thi n an
hour of his death, he is restored to life. In a few
hours the wound i s compl etel y heal ed over and the
wooden heart is beating steadily. He is now a symbiot-
ic host.
Hlslory
The ori gi n of the Ma-kat Mannequi n may never be
learned. Its first appearance is in an ancient story told
by the Rhul-thaun. In the story a master life shaper
named Ma- kat f ound t he mannequi n and f at homed some
of its secrets. She used the mannequin to rule over all the
Rhul -thaun for many years. Then one morni ng she was found
dead, her heart torn out and mi ssi ng. The mannequi n was
gone and never seen agai n by the Rhul -thaun.
In all of the tales and legends of the mannequin, it has
never been seen to move. Yet most of these tales relate
mysteri ous happeni ngs where the mannequi n i s found not
where i t was l eft when no person coul d have moved i t. In
many of these stori es, the owner of the mannequi n i s
found sl ai n i n some gruesome manner.
The Ma-kat Mannequin is never found with any grafts
on it. Nobody knows what happens to the grafts it last
had. Old wives tales say that it eats them. Others say that
it devours the life force of its previous owner as well.
It is assumed that the mannequin has a keenly
i ntel l i gent mi nd, si nce al l other Rhul -tal do.
However , i t has never communi cat ed wi t h anyone.
Tar Tak, an owner that had possession of the man-
nequi n for an unusual l y l ong ti me cl ai med that he
could understand its silence. Of course Tar Tak
was also thought to be insane for most of his
life.
84
Campalgn Use
This rather grisly Rhul-tal is best used by villain NPCs. The certainty of the owners
death makes it a poor choice for a player character. The easiest way to control this
is to not let the characters find out how to become symbiotic hosts. The next best
way i s to l et them fi nd out the exact consequences of owni ng the mannequi n.
The Rhul-thaun are particularly interested in this relic. The life shapers of that
l ost soci ety bel i eve that the Makat Mannequi n hol ds secrets that wi l l al l ow them
to recl ai m thei r l ost heri tage. They thi nk that wi th i t, they can rebui l d the Bl ue Age
and restore the reign of the rhulisti.
Povers
Const ant / I nvoked: Any graft wi l l adhere to the mannequi n. The symbi oti c owner of
the mannequi n fi nds hi msel f wi th the powers and abi l i ti es of the grafts, even
though they are attached to the mannequin and not to himself. Even grafts such as
the armbl ade functi on. The symbi oti c owner can swi ng hi s arm and cause damage
to nearby vi cti ms. There i s no vi si bl e weapon on the owner. However, i t s i nvi si bl e
edge can be felt. Except for the edge, no other part of the graft can be felt.
This is not a magical or psionic effect. It cannot be shut down or excluded by
any known power. How the mannequi n operates i s a total mystery.
Random: One fate and fortune power from Tabl e 14, one i mmuni ty from Tabl e
16, and one personal enhancement from Tabl e 23. Recommended defaul ts for
these random powers are never getti ng l ost, i mmuni ty to energy drai ni ng, and a
+1 bonus to savi ng throws. Whi l e al l of these powers are automati c, some random
powers from the personal enhancement tabl e are not. The owner must known
what the power is before he can use it. This usually means research or divination.
Curse: Eventual l y the mannequi n wi l l ki l l i t s owner. No magi cal or psi oni c
power can protect the owner. No power known on Athas can forewarn hi m ei ther.
Each month there i s a cumul ati ve 1% chance the Ma-kat mannequi n wi l l retri eve
i t s wooden heart and vani sh for a whi l e. Of course, wi thout a heart, i t s former
owner di es, usual l y i n a very gruesome and messy fashi on.
A kiss from the daughter of a barren woman.
Burn it in the heart of the Cerulean Storm.
Throw its wooden heart into the sun.
Fill in the carved tattoos with the blood of a rhulisti.
85
The Arm of Radu
Tissue/Rhul-tal: AC 2, HD 5
The Arm of Radu i s a heal thy l ooki ng hal fl i ng ri ght arm covered i n strange bl ue
and green tattoos. The shoulder joint is a thick mass of short ten-
tacl es.
This life-shaped creation is a graft. If the tentacles are
pl aced agai nst an empty shoul der socket, they
wi l l attach themsel ves to the new host. In fact, i f
the tentacl es are pl aced agai nst a heal thy shoul der,
they wi l l sti l l penetrate the muscl e and attach them-
sel ves. For the next 1d10+10 days, the host has two
ri ght arms, but nei ther of them are functi onal .
Duri ng that ti me, the host s ori gi nal ri ght arm wi th-
ers away, unti l fi nal l y i t fal l s off. Once attached,
t he ar m cannot be r emoved wi t hout ki l l i ng t he
host.
Li ke al l Rhul -tal , the arm i s i ntel l i gent, wi th a
score of 15. The arm can onl y speak to the character
in dreams. When he is awake, it seems to be just a
pi ece of meat. Once asl eep, the character
dreams of creati ng wondrous thi ngs, such as
bui l di ngs, great gardens, del i cate fi guri nes and
the l i ke. The detai l s of such thi ngs are al ways to bl urred to
r emember , but t he wonder of t hem r emai ns. Occasi onal l y t he
arm wi l l dream tal k wi th the character. It al ways appears as a
fl oati ng hal fl i ng i n fl owi ng whi te robes. These conversati ons are al ways
remembered wi th crystal cl ari ty.
Hlslory
Radu i s reputed to have been some sort of powerful and i mportant rhul i sti
l eader. Si nce the exact nature of rhul i sti soci ety i s not known to modern
Athasians, there is no way to know if he was a king, a shaman, a priest, a life
shaper, or somethi ng uni que to the rhul i sti .
What i s known i s that Radu had a great many grafts and l i fe-shaped
enhancements. He was obsessed wi th great works. He devoted hi s l i fe to
creati ng ever more fantasti c obj ects, bui l di ngs, and l i fe-shaped creati ons.
Some l egends connect Radu wi th the fi rst dwarves, for hi s obsessi on was
si mi l ar to the nature of that race.
Upon hi s death, Radu i s sai d to have become a powerful undead
creature. Hi s grafts al l rej ected hi m and fel l away. However, hi s ri ght
arm became Rhul -tal . Some smal l aspect of Radu remai ns i n the
arm, dri vi ng i t to al ways bui l d.
Campalgn Use
The Arm of Radu i s a good i tem to gi ve to pl ayer characters.
It i s qui te powerful , but not greatl y unbal anci ng for a cam-
pai gn. It s curse i s i nteresti ng wi thout bei ng unwi el dy.
The eart hquake curse of the arm wi l l constantl y gi ve
the character excuses to bui l d. Thi ngs are al ways bei ng
torn down by the shaki ng l and, and therefore need to
be rebui l t.
Al l dwarves covet the Arm of Radu. Wi t h t hi s
arm, they bel i eve they can create mi ghty works.
Whoever owns the arm i s sure to have far more encounters
wi th dwarves than seems proper. Some wi l l want to buy i t,
some to worshi p i t, others wi l l j ust try steal i t.
86
Povers
Constant: The arm is a weapon of no small means. The arm has a Strength of 20,
and gi ves a weapon combat bonus of +2 THAC0 and +3 damage. The i ron hard
nai l s are sharp enough to be thei r own weapon, attacki ng wi th the host s THAC0
and doi ng 2d6 poi nts of damage. On a natural rol l of 20, the arm grabs the neck
of i t s opponent, but does no damage. Each round thereafter, the opponent must
save vs. death or pass out. The opponent conti nues to make saves, but fai l ure
now i ndi cates death. The character i s no l onger i n control of the arm whi l e i t i s
strangl i ng. He must make a savi ng throw vs. paral yzati on to rel ease the vi cti m.
He can try each round.
Random: The arm has seven tattoos depi cti ng a parti cul ar power. Each i s sym-
bol i c of a power, one from each of the fol l owi ng tabl es: abj urati on (1), cata-
cl ysms (2), combat(3), el emental earth (12), i mmuni ti es (16), maj or spel l -l i ke
powers (17), offensi ve powers (20). Defaul t powers are protecti on from normal
mi ssi l es (3/day), stri ke the area of effect wi th an eart hquake spel l (catacl ysm),
i mbue the user wi th combat ski l l wi th two new weapon (no cost), move eart h
(1/week), i mmuni ty to shapechange, pol ymorph and the l i ke, tel eki nesi s (3/day),
fi nger of death (1/week). The eart hquake catacl ysm cannot be control l ed i t hap-
pens randoml y whenever the arm i s used. Exactl y when i s up to the DM.
Curse: The arm needs to bui l d. If i t i s not acti vel y engaged i n constructi on for
at least an hour a day, and uses one of its powers while building, it begins to
puni sh i t s host. Each day wi thout bui l di ng i t uses one fi ngernai l to scratch i t s
host. The scratches heal , but the scars wi l l al ways remai n. Rol l on the tabl e bel ow
to determi ne where the host i s scratched. Every three scars on the face l owers the
host s Chari sma by one poi nt. A host cannot l ose more than three poi nts nor have
a Charisma of less than three.
1d6 Body par t
1 Left leg
2 Ri ght l eg
3 Left arm
4 Chest/stomach
5 Back
6 Face
The shade of Radu must rip the arm from its host and break it across its knee.
After the host suffers 1001 consecutive scratches, the arm falls off. It is not
destroyed, but can now be hi dden or l ost agai n.
The arm must be hurl ed i nto the Dark (the mysteri ous di mensi on that surrounds
the worl d of Athas).
The arm must be dipped in elemental fire, water, air, and earth, all within a
t hr ee day per i od.
87
Splrll Vombs
Creature/Rhul-tal: AC n/a, HD n/a
There are four known spirit wombs, one each of air, earth, fire, and water. Each has
a different shape. The air spirit womb is a pale blue, 30 foot long, snake-like crea-
ture. Wind can be heard whistling thought the length of it. The earth spirit womb
resembles a huge, 12 foot diameter, brown and gray turtle with a rough hewn shell.
The fire spirit womb is a 16 foot long, deep red lizard covered in orange and yellow
spines. The water spirit womb is a large, blue and green egg shaped creature, 10 feet
in diameter. It has a face, but no limbs. All of them have human looking faces and a
movement rate of 3. The water spirit womb moves by floating.
The air womb is colored blue and white, in misty, swirling patterns. The earth
womb is speckled brown and gray, with large, irregular spots. The fire womb is
striped red, orange, and yellow. The water womb is mottled blue and green.
Each spirit womb holds an elemental spirit of the land imprisoned inside it. How
this can be is unknown. Most of the powers of the womb are derived from the
trapped spirit. The spirit wombs can speak, and will attempt to convince their own-
ers toward highly ecological goals, like those of the druids.
The spirit wombs will react to attacks like other creatures. All forms of attack
cause them pain, even though they cannot truly wound them. Spells and attack can
cause bruises, but will not penetrate the skin or cause any other form of noticeable
injury. The wombs cannot be destroyed by any known means.
Hlslory
There is much speculation that at one time Athas was filled with life energy and an
uncountable number of elemental spirits. This same theory holds that most of the life
in the world was created by these spirits.
The ancient rhulisti are known to have been masters of the forces of life. Although
in their time the elemental spirits would have been far fewer in number than at the
birth of the world, they were certainly more numerous than today. It is thought that
the rhul i sti communed wi th them.
Somehow a power hungry, ancient life shaper created these vessels and caused
the elemental spirits of the land to enter them. Only a living creature could hold
these spirits. Inanimate objects, no matter how magical, could not contain them.
Since that time, the spirits of the land are reluctant to establish any relationship
with the life forms of Athas. Many of them fled back to the elemental planes that
spawned them. Today the few remaining spirits of the land only trust the druids that
are dedi cated to protecti ng them.
Campalgn Use
Like many artifacts and Rhul-tal, the spirit wombs are very powerful and should only
be introduced to a campaign after careful forethought. One of the best approaches is
to oppose them. A villain acquires one spirit womb and the characters must find one
of the others in order to stop him.
Druids are certain to oppose anyone with a spirit womb. They are the guardians of
the land and commune with the spirits of the land. The druids will not take lightly
someone enslaving one of their precious spirits.
Suggesled Melhods of Deslrucllon
Each spirit womb can only be destroyed by taking it to the elemental plane of its
opposing element (fire vs. water, air vs. earth) and have the ruling elemental of
that plane breathe upon it.
Air: stones from the sky. Earth: breath of a dead halfling. Fire: tears of dragon.
Water: the eternal fires of the sun.
Each womb can only be destroyed by womb of its opposing element. The result-
i ng expl osi on wi l l deci mate anythi ng wi thi n a mi l e.
A character must take possession of all four spirit wombs simultaneously. This frees
all the spirits of the land and kills their Rhul-tal prisons.
88
Povers of lhe Alr Splrll Vomb
Constant: Like all spirit wombs, the air womb can be ridden. When travelling through
clear air, it has a speed of 24, with maneuverability class A. Through dust storms, rain,
or other contaminated air, it only has a speed of 12 and maneuverability class B.
Invoked: The air womb has all the powers of an air spirit of the land, including the
ability to gate in air, create a hurricane force wind (capable of knocking down all
creatures of less than gargantuan size, and lasts one
hour), and can contact their owner via a whis-
peri ng wi nd spel I.
Random: The air womb has four elemental
air powers from Table 9. The default powers
are cloudkill (1/day), conjure lesser air ele-
mental (l /week), control wi nds (3/day),
and wi nd wal l (1/day).
Curse: Within the first month, the character
falls in love with a place that has a constant
or predictable wind, such as a canyon or
open stretch of desert. The character is com-
pelled, as if under a geas, to visit this place
for at least one full day each month. He will
oppose any threat to it, even if it means risking his life.
Povers of lhe Earlh Splrll Vomb
Constant: Like all spirit wombs, the earth womb can be ridden. It can phase through
stone and dry earth at a speed of 24, with maneuverability class A. Travelling
through mud, silt, lava, or other contaminated earth, it only has a speed of 12 and
maneuverability class B.
Invoked: The earth womb has all the powers of an earth
spirit of the land, including the ability to gate in
earth, form a large earthen wall (which can be
caused to fall upon enemies for 10d6 points of
damage), cause an earthquake once a
week (radius 100 feet, 1 in 6 chance of a
creature bei ng swal l owed up), and can
communi cated by vi brati ng a message
through the earth into its owners feet.
Random: The earth womb has four ele-
mental earth powers from Table 12. The
default powers are animate rock (1/day),
conjure lesser earth elemental (1/week), move earth (1/week), and stoneskin (1/day).
Curse: Within the first month, the character falls in love with a feature of land no
larger than a mile in diameter. It must have a large quantity of exposed rock, earth,
or sand. The character is compelled, as if under a geas, to visit this place for at least
one full day each month. He will oppose any threat to it, even if it means risking his
Iife.
Resonallng Povers
Each spi ri t womb has an el emental opposi te, ai r opposes earth, and fi re opposes
wat er . El ement al l y opposi t e wombs cannot abi de one anot her . A womb wi l l
refuse to be owned by a creature that al ready owns i t s opposi te. However, any
ot her pai r i ng i s al l owed.
In addi ti on to the combi ned powers of the two Rhul -tal , part of the owner s
body turn el emental . Ai rl egs become mi st, can fl y at a speed of 3. Earthfi sts
become stone, can do 1d8 poi nts of damage and stone shape (1/day). Fi rehai r
becomes fl ames, can affect normal fi res (3/day). Waterface becomes i ce, can
use tel eki nesi s (3/day) to control water, and heal 1d8 poi nts of dehydrati on dam-
age with a kiss.
89
Povers of lhe Flre Splrll Vomb
Constant: Like all spirit wombs, the fire womb can be ridden. It can travel through
fire at a speed of 24, with maneuverability class A. In smoke, extreme-
ly hot desert air (over 120 degrees), or other contaminated fire, it has
a speed of 12 and maneuverability class B. Its rider is unharmed by
he heat for as long he is mounted on the fire womb. Legend has it that
even the Dragon s fi ery breath wi l l not affect the fi re womb. I nvoked: The
fire womb has all the powers of a fire spirit of the land, including the ability to
gate in fire (appears as a wall of fire as if cast by a 20th level druid), create
a hot, sulfuric wind (causes choking and gagging each round a save vs.
poi son i s fai l ed), and can communi cate wi th i t s owner through any
fire by forming images in the flames.
Random: The fire womb has four elemental fire powers
from Table 10. The default powers are conjure lesser fire ele-
mental (1 /week), fireshield (1/day), fireball (3/day), and light
(3/day).
Curse: Within the first month, the character falls in love
with a feature of land that has extreme heat, such as an open
desert flat or lava pit. In this place he will build a great fire
and attempt to keep it lit as long and often as possible. The
character is compelled, as if under a geas, to visit this place for at least one full day
each month. He will oppose any threat to it, even if it means risking his life.
Povers of lhe Valer Splrll Vomb
Constant: Like all spirit wombs, the water womb can be ridden. It can swim
through water at a speed of 24, with maneuverability class A. In mud, rain, or other
contaminated waters, it has a speed of 12 and maneuverability class B.
Its rider can breathe underwater and is unharmed for as long he is
mounted on the water womb. Sadl y, there are not many pl aces
where this ability can be used today.
I nvoked: The water womb has al l the powers of a water spi ri t
of the l and, i ncl udi ng the abi l i ty to gate i n water, cause a pool
of water to grab a vi cti m and drown hi m (Bend Bars rol l to
escape the watery arms), and communi cate wi th i t s owner
through and sti l l water surface.
Random: The water womb has four el emental water
powers from Tabl e 11. The defaul t powers are cone of
col d (1/day), conj ure l esser water el emental (1/week), cre-
ate oasis (1/month), and wall of ice (1/day).
Curse: Within the first month, the character falls in love
wi th a feature of l and no l arger than a mi l e i n di ameter. It
must have a l arge vari ety of pl ant and ani mal l i fe, and a source
of water. The character is compelled, as if under a geas, to visit
thi s pl ace for at l east one ful l day each month. He wi l l oppose any threat to i t,
even if it means risking his life.
Resonallng Curse
Part of the resonating curse is the drastic change in appearance described above.
In addition, the owner gets a -4 penalty on all saves vs. opposition elements, and
at t acks wi t h opposi t i on el ement s gai n +4 t o t hei r at t ack rol l s. The owner suf f ers
a random cataclysm power from Table 2. The default choices are acid storm for
two turns (air/water), incendiary cloud sweeps over the area (air/fire), area suffers
a transmute rock to mud (earth/water), or all water in the area evaporates
(eart h/ f i re).
90
The Tongue of Cllb lhe Mad
Tissue/Rhul-tal: AC 8, HD n/a
Without a host, the tongue looks like a large slug or leech. It is jet black in color
with a sucker-like mouth on the fat end. If the mouth is pressed against a potential
hosts tongue, it grips it tightly. It then begins to eat the hosts original tongue in
order to take its place.
Hlslory
Into every generation is born a person of unusual abilities. Par Len of the rhulisti
could talk. He could talk for hours without a single stutter, stammer, or pause. To
make matters worse, everything he said seemed to make sense, at least the way he
put i t. He coul d tel l anybody al most anythi ng and they bel i eved hi m. He qui ckl y
gai ned t he ni ckname Gl i b.
Glib rose to a position of power among the rhulisti. Exactly what that means
not fully understood. It is known that he wielded great personal power, similar
to that of the templars and psionicists of modern Athas.
The more power Glib collected, the more he began to believe in his
lies. Therein lies the road to madness. By the time he died, Glib lived in a
fantasy world that existed only in his own mind.
On his death, the life shapers removed his tongue and kept it alive.
Believing that this commonplace organ was responsible for Glibs unusu-
al ability, they studied it for decades, but determined nothing. The
tongue remained a curiosity in the possession of the shapers for many
centuri es.
Campalgn Use
Any NPC leader or politician can make extraordinary use of this arti-
fact. He is certain to have many powerful friends and allies. He need
not be personally powerful, although the Tongue of Glib the Mad cer-
tai nl y hel ps.
Only allow your players characters to have the tongue if they can
roleplay its curse well. A cooperative player can make a campaign truly
interesting if he is willing to play along with the curse. Uncooperative
players will have to be tricked, which may not be possible.
Povers
Constant: Anything the host says is believed by whomever hears it.
However, this effect only lasts so long as they are within range of his
voi ce.
Invoked: Once per day, the tongue can affect everyone in range with
a mass suggestion spell-like effect.
Random: The tongue as three random enchantment/charm powers from
Table 13. Each of these must be triggered by a spoken word or sound.
Default powers are charm person (2/day), emotion (1/day), and hold person
(1/day).
Curse: There is a 5% chance per lie, that the host will believe his own lie.
He will see things that are not there if necessary. Make it seem to the player as if
the tongue actually altered reality. If the other players try to convince him other-
wise, make it seem as if this is a special effect that only he can see.
Bury it with the body of Glib the Mad.
Feed it to an honest person, who has never told a lie.
Its host must not speak a single word for 33 years.
9I
Frulls
Drake Control: This fruit is extremely rare. These five different fruits are found only
in the gardens of sorcerer-kings, powerful preservers, or members of the Order. The
secret to the creation of these fruits is closely guarded. The nature of the fruit
depends on the drake i nvol ved:
Air Drake (Strawberry)
Earth Drake (Radish)
Fire Drake (Apple)
Water Drake (Water Crest)
Lesser Drake (White Pear)
Anyone who consumes one of these fruits has limited control over drakes of the cor-
responding type. These fruits are commonly used to force a drake to move into or out
of a general area through force of will. This control power has a duration of one hour.
The fruit cannot be used to commit a greater drake to a specific task (such as destroy-
ing a certain town or killing a specific person) because of its limited intelligence.
All lesser drakes (magma, rain, silt, and sun) are affected by the same type of fruit,
but receive a saving throw because of their greater intelligence and psionic power.
Lesser drakes with some type of active psionic protection (ie. mindbar, id insinuation)
gain a +3 to their save. Because of their greater intelligence lesser drakes can be
order to do preform limited tasks, but when the effect of the fruit wears off the drake
typically remembers the controller and attempts to extract revenge. The controlling
character must remain within 100 yards of the drake or contact and control are lost.
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Mind Blank (Kiwi): This fruits effects are identical to the psionic devotion mind blank,
but does not require PSPs to begin or maintain. The fruits duration is 2-5 hours.
Psionic Boosting Fruit (Green Grapes): Eating this fruit temporarily increases the
total amount of PSPs available, increasing the total number of psionic points by
25%. These points are used first when using any psionic abilities, and are good for
12 hours. Consuming multiple pieces of this fruit has an opposite effect, decreasing
PSPs by 25% if two or more are eaten within a 12 hour period.
Restore Psionics Fruit (Lemon): This fruit restores PSP at a rate of 10 points per turn
to anyone eating it. The entire fruit must be consumed to achieve this effect. Eating
portions of the fruit does not result in lesser effects. The lemon rots after one hour if
not enti rel y consumed once bi tten i nto.
Silt Breathing (Peach): Those who eat this fruit have no need to breathe air while
submersed in silt. The effects of this fruit do not supply the eater with air in other air-
less environments (such as a vacuum or being buried beneath the earth), only silt.
This fruit has a duration of 2d6+2 turns.
Cl ls
Oil of Armor: Once applied this oil toughens a surface, effectively increasing its
armor class and hit points. The oil adds +3 to the recipients armor class and adds
2d4 temporary hit points to their total. Damage to the recipient is first taken from the
temporary hi t poi nt. The affect works i n conj uncti on wi th armor and other magi cal
protection, but only to the areas the oil is applied. One application of this substance
is enough to coat one average size human or elf for 24 hours. Dwarves and halflings
need only half a dose, muls require one and a half, and half-giants require four
applications to cover themselves. Thri-kreens gain no benefits from this substance.
Oil of Dryness: Once applied this oil prevents a contacted surface from reaching
temperatures above 70 degrees or below 30 degrees. If applied to a living creature
this oil prevents perspiration and sunburn, and reduces their need for water by 50%
per day. This oil has a duration of 36 hours; however, immersion in water washes the
oil away, negating its effect.
Oil of Masking: When this oil is rubbed on the body it effectively masks the per-
son from all senses except normal vision. Senses such as smell, hearing, infravision,
and any means of psionic detection cannot detect the presence of someone covered
in this oil. This oil also renders the mind of the individual invisible to the psionic
skill contact, thus preventing the use of telepathic and many other types of psionic
disciplines. The oil has a duration of 24 hours.
Scrolls
Scrolls are usually found in tubes made of ivory, ceramic, precious minerals, animal hide,
bone, leather, or in rare cases, wood. Truly ancient scrolls might be found in a metal
case, but in those cases, the metal case may be worth more than the scroll. All other
aspects of Athasian scrolls follow the rules for scrolls in the DUNGEON MASTER Guide.
Very few Athasian scrolls are written on paper, most are either carved on clay
tablets or painted on animal skins.
A few types of scrolls are not found in Athas, such as protection from lycanthropes
(Athas has none), protection from dragon breath, and protection from undead.
However, there are several new types of scrolls unique to the world of Athas.
Protection from Earth (reading time6): Reading this scroll creates a 10 foot diameter
sphere centered on the reader. No form of earth (dirt, rock, sand, silt, dust) can enter
the sphere. Rocks, even large boulders, bounce off the protective sphere. The readers
93
body will float several feet off of sand or silt, keeping his center of mass five feet above
it. He will not sink into a dust bowl or the Sea of Silt. The effect lasts 1d4+2 turns.
Protection from lnsects (reading time2): Reading this scroll creates a protective
sphere 10 feet in diameter, centered on the reader. No insect, or insect based, life
form may enter the sphere. This includes Thri-kreen and the related Kreen races. If
the reader moves, even insects weighing more than he does, must move out of the
way. If an insect, or horde of them, has nowhere to retreat, the protective sphere is
burst. Note that spiders are not insects. The effects of the scroll lasts for 1d6+3 turns.
Protection from Mental Invasion (reading time1 round): Magic cannot truly pre-
vent psionic powers. However, it can isolate a persons mind from all outside influ-
ences. The reader of the scroll is immune to any effect that tampers with his mind,
magical or otherwise. However, this protection works two ways. The readers mind
cannot contact or invade anyone elses mind. The spell lasts for 1d6+2 turns.
Protection from Silt Horrors (reading time3): There are many types of silt horrors
roaming the Sea of Silt. All are tightly related creatures. This scroll creates a zone of
protection with a 10 foot radius. No silt horror or silt spawn can enter the protective
sphere. The sphere cannot push the horror away, but neither can it move the sphere.
It lasts for 1d4+6 turns.
Protection from Undead (reading time5): This scroll is quite different from the scroll
of the same name in the DUNGEON MASTER Guide. There are two varieties of this scroll.
The first is only effective against undead without free will. Zombies, skeletons,
kraglings, and the like are all unable to enter to five foot radius of effect, centered
upon the reader. They must give way if the sphere moves. If no option for retreat exists,
the undead creatures are destroyed. The scroll does not prevent powers, such as charm
gaze or breath weapons from entering its radius. The effect lasts for 2d4 turns.
The second variety of this scroll is highly specific. It is only effective against a par-
ticular undead or specific monster type. For example, it might only work against
dwarven banshees, or i t mi ght onl y protect the reader from Ur Hatha, the undead
torturer. In all cases, scrolls that protect the reader from free willed undead are high-
ly specific. The DM should hand pick the type of undead the scroll affects, based
upon events in the campaign. If it does not matter, he can roll on the table below.
d100 Scroll type
1- 70 Non-free willed (skeletons, zombies, kraglings, etc.)
71- 100 Specific form of free willed undead
d100 Type of Free Willed Undead
1-6 Banshee, dwarf
7-13 Dhaot
14- 19 Dune r unner
20- 25 Fael
2 6 Kaisharga
27- 32 Krag
33- 38 Meor t y
39- 40 Raaig
41- 46 Racked Spirit
47- 50 T l i z
51- 53 Wrai th, athasi an
54- 60 Zombi e, t hi nki ng
61- 100 Speci fi c, named undead
Scroll of Illumination (reading time3 rounds): Reading this scroll makes every-
thing crystal clear to the reader. His mind understands its own operation to a much
greater extent than ever before. The result of this is that the reader gets a 50%
bonus to his total PSPs. The effect lasts for 2d6 turns. When it wears off, the bonus
PSPs vanish. If the reader is left with negative PSPs because of this, he falls into a
coma for 24 hours and cannot use his psionic powers for a week.
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Rlngs
Ring of Animal Influence: This type of ring was created to control creatures of animal
intelligence for use as beasts of burden. While under the influence of the rings power, a
specific type of wild animal becomes docile and responds to simple commands given
by the wearer. The kind of creature the ring dominates depends on its construction,
which is usually bone or chitin. These rings only affect the type of creature that theyre
keyed to. These rings have a maximum of 40 charges when created. One charge from
the ring is used for every hit die of the creature dominated. The creature is from then on
subject to the power of the ring. Control ends when the user is more than 100 yards
from the animal, or when the ring runs out of charges. The ring can be recharged.
1d100 Roll Type of Creature
01- 20 Kank
21- 49 Erdlu
50- 79 l ni x
80- 95 Meki l l ot
9 6 + Other (DM s Choi ce)
Ring of Coolness: The ring is constructed of jade and functions similar to a ring of
warmth, except that it protects against the heat of the desert sun. It protects its wear-
er from the harsh effects of heat, even when the wearer is fully exposed to the sun
and wearing heavy armor. This ring provides restoration of heat-sustained damage at
the rate of one hit point per turn. It also increases saving throws versus heat-based
attacks by +2, an reduces damage sustained by -1 per die.
Ring of Psionic Attack: This item adds to the mental to hit armor class zero
(MTHAC0) score of an attacking psionic character. This bonus is applied to die roll
totals against an opponents mental armor class (MAC) in addition to any other
applied bonuses. These rings are created with psionic power, and do not radiate
magic, but do show under a detect psionics spell. The power of this ring functions
with any of the five psionic attacks, though the most powerful of these rings (typical-
ly +4) often work with only one or two of the attack forms.
1d100 Roll
01- 70
71-92
93- 99
0 0
MTHAC0 Attack Bonus
+1
+2
+3
+ 4
Ring of Psionic Mastery: This ring reduces the amount of PSPs needed to begin and
maintain certain psionic powers. Each of these rings is keyed to a specific power
group, and the PSP savings varies depending on the creators expertise.
1d100 Type of Power
01- 20 Cl ai rsenti ent Powers
21- 40 Psychoki neti c Powers
41- 60 Psychometabol i c Powers
61- 80 Psychoporti ve Powers
81- 00 Tel epathi c Powers
1d100 PSP cost
01- 65 -25% PSP cost
66- 97 -50% PSP cost
98- 00 -75% PSP cost
These rings are usable only by psionicists, and do not function in conjunction with
wild talents. The more powerful of these rings are constructed by members of the
Order and various sorcerer-kings. These rings are metal inlaid with gems that focus
the items power. The more precious the gem, the more powerful the item.
Ring of Mental Protection: Rings of this nature add to a characters mental armor
class (MAC) for purposes of psionic attacks. The amount of protection ranges from
+1 to +5, and are added to the base MAC. Like the physical armor class, the higher
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the number the more protection is granted. The plus of the ring is randomly deter-
mined below. These rings are created with psionic power and do not radiate magic,
they do show up under a detect psionics spell. The power of this ring functions with
any of the five psionic defenses, though the most powerful of these rings (+4 and +5)
often work with only one or two of the defenses.
1d100 Roll Level of Protection
01- 60 +1
61-82 +2
83- 90 +3
91- 97 + 4
98- 00 +5
Ring of Silt Walking: This ring enables the wearer to walk on silt without sinking into
it. The wearers feet dont actually touch the silt, always remaining above the surface.
This ring does not magically conform to a wearers hand, and rings of this nature are
seldom made for the large hands of half-giants or giants. Rings of silt walking are
crafted from the teeth of a silt drake, making them difficult to obtain. The wearer of
this ring may travel across silt at their normal movement rate.
Ring of Psionic Storage: The wearer of this ring can store psionic points in the
device for future use on a two-to-one basis. The amount of PSPs that can be stored
depends on the ring:
1d100 PSPs
01- 25 10 PSPs
26- 50 15 PSPs
51-89 25 PSPs
90-98 35 PSPs
99-00 50 PSPS
Once psionic power is stored, the ring spends one PSP per day to keep the power
stored. For example: if a psionicist stored 10 PSPs (by spending 20 points) in a ring
and did not spend any, the following day there would be nine PSPs left. The secrets to
creating these rings are closely guarded by members of the Order. However, rogue
psionicists and former (though short lived) members of the Order have traded the
secret of this rings manufacturing to preservers and defilers for their magical services.
Ring of Time Shifting: This ring functions the same the psionic power time shift.
These rings are often carved from the bone or ivory of a creature with psionic power.
These rings are created exclusively using psionic power, and do not radiate magic,
but do show up under a detect psionics spell. When discovered these rings have
3d10 charges. Rings of time shifting can be recharged only by psionicist with the
empower devot i on.
Rods
Ranike Rod: This rod, made from the wood of a ranike tree, is a useful weapon
against the giant insects of Athas. In combat, it strikes as a club +1 and may be used
by any character class that can wield a club. Whenever it strikes a giant insect,
including thri-kreen, it gives off a puff of smoke like that created by burning ranike
sap. This uses one of its charges (it will typically have 1d10+40 charges) in the
process. This cloud stays around the target, no matter what the victim does, reducing
it to utter helplessness if a saving throw versus rods fails at a -4 to the roll. The
enemy can neither attack nor defend, and its only movement is to fall to the ground
and thrash blindly in agony for four rounds. Its helplessness gives an enemy striking
the victim a +1 bonus to attack rolls until the cloud dissipates. If a ranike rod is used
in further attacks, it does not release more clouds on a victim already surrounded by
a cloud, thus saving charges. The rod may not be recharged.
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Slaves
Staff of Desert Travel: These staves are constructed by halflings of the Ringing
Mountains who travel to the harsher Tyr region. They are carved from a wood known
only to the halflings, and empowered with various psionic powers (which are
unknown, as the halflings do not share this information). Each of these staves can hold
up to 20 charges, though some of the powers do not require expending a charge to
activate. Once all charges are expended the staff is useless. These staves are created by
halfling clerics exclusively for their use, though any elemental priest can use them.
The fol l owi ng powers drai n no charges:
Find enough water to sustain the wielder for one day, once per day.
Empowers constant knowledge of direction (always points north).
Detects desert predators within 100 yards.
The fol l owi ng powers drai n one charge:
Create water
Merciful Shadows
Purify Food and Drink
The fol l owi ng powers drai n two charges:
Conjure Lesser Water Elemental
Conjure Paraelemental Rain Beast
Staff of Pain: This weapon is typically used by the templars of Athas to motivate
slaves under their control by inflict pain upon them. The staff causes no actual dam-
age to the victim unless they are extremely weak and near death, but does cause
near unbearable pain. The wielder of the staff must have psionic power of some sort
to make the device work. The level of pain inflicted depends on the number of PSPs
channeled through the staff. For every two psionic points directed through the
device the degree of pain increases, up to a total of eight PSPs. If six or more PSPs
are used in this manner the victim must make a Constitution check or be rendered
momentarily unconscious (1-4 rounds) from the shock to their system. Though they
do not have charges, these staff eventually cease to function. The staves become use-
less after 1d20+100 psionic points are channeled through them.
If a characters Constitution score is less than a 7, he must make a successful sys-
tem shock roll or take 1d10 points of damage for every psionic point being used to
power the staff.
Ranike Staff: This enchanted staff has powers similar to those of the ranike rod,
though it strikes a target as a quarterstaff +1. It is also restricted to 25 or less charges,
and is also not rechargeable. If one charges is expended, the results are the same as
a ranike rod. If two charges are expended at once, the staff creates a billowing cloud
of ranike sap smoke 40 wide, 20 high, and 20 deep. The clouds movements are
controlled by the staffs wielder as long as there is no strong wind, which dissipates
the cloud in one round. The cloud can travel at a speed of 10 per round and lasts
for 12 rounds. The smoke is not heavy (like cloudkill vapor), so it does not sink into
low areas. This weapon is especially effective against attacking packs of thri-kreen or
large nests of dangerous insects.
Vands
Wand of Desert Winds: This device creates a gust of wind strong enough to pick up sand
or dirt particles and fling them at a designated target. The amount of material affected is
10 cubic feet per charge expended. The damage done by this wand depends on the
affected material. In the desert, the wands affects sand, doing 3d6 damage per charge. In
cities, underground, or in forest terrain it inflicts 2d6 damage per charge. If the wand is
used in an area where there is no loose substance (such as the Obsidian Plain), a charge
is expended and nothing happens. Only two charges can be expended in any one
round. When found these wands have 2d10+20 charges and cannot be recharged.
97
Wand of Obsidian Detection: This wand has a 60-yard radius range. This wand pulses
in the wielders hand and points in the direction of the largest deposit of obsidian with-
in the radius. Once the wielder comes within 20 feet of the deposit, the amount of
obsidian is also known. The charge lasts for two turns, and is able to find multiple
deposits. The wand may be recharged using the psionic devotion empower.
Wand of Psionic Detection: This wand functions in a manner similar to a wand of magic
detection. Once a charge is expended the wand indicates to the wielder the presence of
items which use psionic power, or those under the influence of or using psionic powers.
Detection range is a 30-foot radius of the wielder. These wand function on psionic, not
magical power, and can only be recharged by the psionic devotion empower.
Wand of Psionic Negation: This device temporally negates activated psionically
powered items, or removes psionic affects from individuals. Psionic items affected by
this wand do not function for 1d4+4 rounds. Entities under the influence of psionic
powers have all connections with their person severed (such as contact or molecular
agi tati on). The wand can functi on once per round, each negati on drai ni ng one
charge. The wand cannot be recharged.
Wand of Showers: This wand creates storm clouds which then creates brief rain
showers. The rain lasts for 1d3 turns, affecting an area 100 yards in diameter. The
amount of rain produced by this effect is minimal, though it can supply up to six
humanoi ds (or three humanoi ds and one hal f-gi ant) wi th enough water for one day
provided they have some means of collecting the water. It takes three charges to
operate the wand in the deep desert, two charges in areas of vegetation, and one
charge in a heavy forest. These wands are constructed of birch wood, can hold up to
5d10+20 charges, and are usable only by water, earth, air, or rain clerics, and
druids. These wands cannot be recharged.
Mlscellaneous Maglc: 1evels.
1evelry. Phylaclerles
Amulet of the Dragon: These amulets are used by followers of Dregoth the Undead
Dragon King. These amulets are considered holy symbols by Dregoth and his follow-
ers, typically worn by his dray followers. The amulets are small metal disks about
two inches in diameter, usually attached to a leather tie or metal chain. Few of these
amulets are still in use, and are often found among the corpses that litter the ruins of
Giustenal. Anyone who wears one of these amulets gain the following protections as
the dray: immunity to fire and heat, infravision, and need half the normal amount of
water per day. The amulets have the added side effect of allowing Dregoth to know
where the wearer is at all time, should he have any reason to wonder.
Brooch of Obsidian Shattering: This magical brooch takes the form of a small silver
hammer of elven manufacture. It contains up to 60 charges (4d10+20), and is acti-
vated by touching it with a small piece of obsidian (which then turns to dust) as the
elven word shallackan (shatter) is spoken. The brooch shatters all obsidian within
120 feet of the wearer when activated. The brooch is especially effective in disarm-
i ng opponents armed wi th obsi di an weapons. Magi cal obsi di an i tems are enti tl ed to
a saving throw versus disintegration. These brooches cannot be recharged.
Obsidian Neck/ace: This powerful item stores psionic power (like a ring of spell stor-
ing) and can later channel the accumulated PSPs into the psionic science disinte-
grate. This necklace can be recharged by using the psionic devotion empower. For
every charge put into the necklace a psionicist must spend 15 PSPs (activation for
empower) and 150% the cost of disintegrate (60 PSPs), These necklaces can hold a
maximum of 20 charges, and cannot be recharged if the last charge is expended.
Silver Necklace: When charges on this necklace are used, the wearer is affected by
the psychometabol i c devoti on bi ofeedbackreduci ng the wearer s armor cl ass by
98
one. Once activated the power of the necklace lasts for 1d4+2 turns. When found
these necklaces have 2d10+20 charges and cannot be recharged.
Talisman of Psionic Storage: The wearer of this talisman can store psionic points in
the device for future use. These talismans are more powerful than a ring of psionic
storage, taking longer to manufacture and being able to hold more psionic points.
Unlike a ring of psionic storage, these devices store PSPs on a one-to-one basis. The
amount of PSPs that can be stored depends on the talisman:
1 d 1 0 0 PSPs
01- 25 10 PSPS
26- 50 20 PSPS
51- 89 35 PSPS
90- 98 50 PSPS
99- 00 70 PSPS
Once psionic power is stored, the talisman spends two PSP per day (unlike the
ring which spends one) to keep the power stored. For example: if a psionicist stored
10 PSPs in a talisman and did not spend any, the following day there would be 8
PSPs left. The secrets to creating these items are as closely guarded by the Order as
with other items that store psionic power.
Talisman of Contact: This talisman gives an attacking psionicist a bonus to any
attempts to use the skill contact against a closed mind. The bonus is between +1 and
+3, with the later being extremely rare. Most of these talismans (90%) give a +1
bonus to the contact skill.
Mlscellaneous Maglc:
Candles. Dusls. Clnlmenls.
Incense. and Slones
Candle of Rejuvenation: This item allows a psionicist to recover PSPs at up to four
times the normal rate while within 10 feet of the burning candle. If the psionicist is
meditating, the rate of recovery is doubled; if the character is asleep, PSPs are recov-
ered at three times the normal rate. If these candles are used in conjunction with the
proficiency rejuvenation, recovery rate is four times normal. Each of these candles
burns for a total of eight hours.
Chitin Ointment: This salve, created by the thri-kreen, is used to cure damaged
chitin on members of their race. Once applied, this substance mends brittle or bro-
ken chitin, greatly accelerating the healing process. One application of this liniment
heals a thri-kreen or other chitinous creature of 1d8+2 points of damage. Applying
this substance to non-chitinous creature produces no affects. Small ceramic contain-
ers of this substance can hold up to three uses of the unguent.
Dust of Psionic Invisibility: This fine powder resembles sand (which is a main com-
ponent) and is often mistaken for such and discarded. When a pinch of this sub-
stance is sprinkled over the possessor, or any other article, it is rendered invisible to
all forms of psionic detection. This form of non-detection protects from all clairsen-
tient sciences and devotions that detect or otherwise espy something through the use
of psionic power. The dust does not protect against the skill contact. One pinch of
this dust lasts for 1d4+2 turns. A pouch of this dust contains 1d8+6 pinches.
Dust of Sense Depravation: This dust, when sprinkled on a living creature, prevents
detection by all senses other than sight. Since many creatures of Athas use senses
such as hearing, smell, and touch to hunt their prey, this dust effectively protects
them agai nst di scovery whi l e travel i ng i n the wi l ds (i ncl udi ng detecti on by thri -kreen
antennae). In some cases (25% of the time) this dust also functions as dust of psionic
99
invisibility, adding psionic detection to the list of deprived senses. One pinch of this
dust lasts for 1d4 hours. A pouch of this dust contains 1d6+2 pinches.
Enhancement Stone: This stone adds to the total number of psionic points normally
available to a psionicist or possessor of a wild talent. These additional PSPs are trans-
ferred from the stone to the psionicist while he rests. If the stone is lost or destroyed,
so are the points. The amount of PSPs enhanced depends on the stone.
1 d 1 0 0 PSPs
01- 25 5 PSPS
26- 50 10 PSPS
51- 89 20 PSPS
90- 98 25 PSPs
99- 00 35 PSPS
Stone of Earth Passage: This stone bestows upon its possessor the ability to pass through
the earth the same as a 5th level earth cleric. Movement through the earth is at half the
possessor normal rate, and spells may not be cast during its use. If the stone is lost or
dropped for whatever reason while moving through the earth, the unfortunate person
instantly solidifies and is killed. These stones can be used once per day, for up to five
rounds; the stone functions if used a second time in the same day, but is useless thereafter.
Mlscellaneous Maglc:
The The Velrd Sluff
Cube of Energy Containment: This device functions comparably to the psionic
power energy containment, protecting the possessor from forms of energy such as
electricity, fire, cold, heat, or sound. If the possessor is subject to any of these attacks
and makes his saving throw they take no damage from the assault, instead the full
number of points of damage are transferred into the cube. If the saving throw is
failed, he suffers half damage, regardless of what the spell description states. If there
is no saving throw for the effect, the cube holder takes only 3/4 damage from the
spell. The difference in damage from what the possessor receives is transferred into
the cube, which then glows with a blue illuminance from then on. The area of pro-
tection is confined to the possessor of the cube and anything on their person.
Each of these cubes contains up to 200 points of energy in this fashion before
exploding. As the cube absorbs more energy, the illumination grows in intensity.
When the cube is within 20 points of exploding, it begins to radiate low levels of
heat. This is an indication that the cube should be discarded. When the cube,
explodes, everything within a 30foot radius suffers from the total amount of hit
points absorbed by the device (save for half).
Erdlu Canteen: This magical canteen is made from the empty shell of an erdlu egg;
the entire shell must be available for the canteen to be created. Once per day, upon
utterance of the command word, the canteen fills itself up with the fresh red yolks of
an erudlua refreshing treat to any inhabitant of Athas. This item is meant to serve
as a personal canteen for a lone traveler. It is possible for a member of same adven-
turing party to create yolk more than once per day, but cannot create more than
seven yolks during an one-week period. If the owner foolishly tries for the eighth
yolk in the same week, the canteen explodes, inflicting 1d4 hit points of damage to
anyone i n a S-foot radi us-l i teral l y l eavi ng them wi th egg on thei r face.
Saddle of Desert Travel: These magical saddles are used by travelers to speed their
voyages across the perilous desert. These saddles are crafted of lizard skin, and fit
either kanks, inix, or crodlu. Once affixed to the mount, the creature travels at 150%
of its normal movement rate through desert terrain, and requires only 25% its nor-
mal water intake each day. In addition, the rider cannot be thrown from the saddle
unless he or she wishes.
I 00
1d6 Saddle Type
1-3 Kank
4- 5 l ni x
6 Cr odl u
Silt Skiff: Similar to a folding boat, the silt skiff is used to travel over the dangerous
Silt Sea and other such phenomena. This item has been empowered with the psionic
power l evi tati on, al l owi ng the devi ce to move across the si l t i nstead of pl ummeti ng
to the bottom. When discovered, a silt skiff appears as a small ceramic plate covered
i n crypti c marki ngs whi ch radi ates powerful magi c. Upon speaki ng the command
word this plate expands into a small skiff capable of transporting up to three
humanoid creatures (or one half-giant) across precarious silt. The skiff is 15-foot
l ong, 6-foot wi de, and 4-foot deep.
Another series of command words produces either a kayaking style oar (one oar
with a paddle on both ends) or a 15-foot pole to move the skiff through the silt. A
final command word is also needed to fold the skiff back into its plate form. These
command words are seldom inscribed on either of the skiffs forms, and its best to
have a written record of them closely guarded.
Pslonlc Ilems
Psionic items are thinking creatures. Each has an intelligence, ego, alignment, level,
MAC, and PSPs. The alignment is completely random, but the other attributes are
fixed. Along with all of these, the item has its own personality and goals. In most
cases these are very simple, amounting to being well cared for and getting to use
their powers at least once a day. Rules for item personalities and ego are found in
the DUNGEON MASTER Guide.
To use a psionic item, the character must contact it telepathically or empathically
and request that it use its powers. This will cost the character PSPs for the appropri-
ate devotion or science. Once telepathic contact has been established, the request
takes no more time than uttering a command word for a magical item. If the psionic
item agrees, it activates its power immediately. A psionic item recovers PSPs at a
rate of six/hour, three if it is damaged. The Will and the Way accessory contains
more details about psionic items and how to create them.
When a psionic item is first found, a rapport must be established between it and
the new owner. This is a great opportunity for roleplaying. Keep in mind that very
few psi oni c i tems wi l l be bel l i gerent enough to deny thei r new owners. Evi l owners
will threaten or bribe the item to get it to work. Good owners will befriend the item
to get it to work. In both cases, there is a 95% chance of the item agreeing to work
for the character or NPC. Once in a great while the item may-choose to act of its
own accord or not act at all, especially if it has been ignored or taken for granted.
None of these psionic items will detect as magic. However, any psionic probe will
reveal l atent power wi thi n them.
Alchemy Jug, Athasian PSPs 30, Int 14, Ego 12
MAC 5, MTHAC0 14
An athasian alchemy jug is made of ceramic. The clay is first mixed with powered
bones from a gray silt horror. Any material placed within the jug can be transmuted
using the jugs molecular rearrangement science. It only has enough PSPs to work on
an object for one hour, which is only enough time to affect one ounce of material.
Items over an ounce can be transmuted in several sessions. Once the transmutation
is complete, it cannot be improved upon. If the finished item is flawed, it cannot be
put back in to fix it. Additionally, the jug cannot transmute non-metals to metals.
Aura Mi rror PSPs 18, Int 12, Ego 7
MAC 9, MTHAC0 19
An aura mi rror l ooks l i ke any other mi rror. However, the refl ecti ve pai nt on the
back is made with ground lenses from the eyes of Pterran. When activated, the mir-
ror shows the aura of anyone reflected in it. The mirror does not have enough PSPs
to work for more than one round before it must rest.
I0I
Bag of Creation PSPs 40, Int 16, Ego 10
MAC 6, MTHAC0 16
Few adventurers first think this bag is anything special. It is made of many different
types of cloth, all sewn together in a crazy patchquilt. However, this bag can be
very handy. When stuffed full of raw materials, such a sticks, grass, stones, bones,
rope, or whatever else is lying around, it can assemble them into just about any
object using the create object science. The only restriction is that the object must fit
compl et el y wi thi n the bag (4foot di ameter sphere).
Bag of Faces PSPs 33, Int 15, Ego 14
MAC 7, MTHAC0 17
This very unusual item is made from thick hide. The bag has the alter features devotion
(power score, Con-1; int. cost, 6; maintain, 3/turn; range, 0; prep time, 1; roll score, dis-
guise will pass close inspection; roll 20, save vs. polymorph or new features are perma-
nent) from The Will and The Way accessory. The owner places the bag over his head for
one full turn. When he takes it off, he looks like someone else. The owner must keep
the bag on his person for it to maintain the disguise. He cannot be made to look like a
member of another species. However, he has complete control over all his facial fea-
tures, including eye color, skin color, bone structure, hair, etc. This is an actual change,
not an illusion. If he rolls a 10 or better for this power, he can exactly duplicate another
persons face. Since the bag does not change the owners body, voice, or mannerisms,
this disguise is only useful with people that know the imitated person casually. A suc-
cessful power check is needed each time the disguise is closely inspected.
Bag of Impressions PSPs 20, Int 12, Ego 7
MAC 9, MTHAC0 19
A fine weave of embroidery covers the surface of this large sack. One side depicts a
scene of someone pl aci ng an obj ect, usual l y a weapon, i nto a bri ghtl y col ored bag.
The other side of the sack shows a vision in a cloud, usually of a dramatic death,
rising up out of the bag to the astonishment of the people.
A bag of impressions has the object reading science. When an object is placed
inside the bag, anyone in telepathic contact with the bag sees the embroidered
scene come to life and reveal whatever details it gleans from the object. The embroi-
dery does not really move. That is just a mental effect caused by the bag.
Boots of Equilibrium PSPs 12, Int 12, Ego 4
MAC 9, MTHAC0 19
These boots can vary in color from a deep red to a dark, mossy green. Those are the
col ors of the hej -ki n hi de used to make them. The psychometabol i c devoti ons body
equilibrium, and catfall are the talents of these boots. When body equilibrium is
acti vated, the character becomes light as a feather and is able to walk on any sur-
face, such as water or a spiders web, without falling through or breaking it.
However, he becomes susceptible to strong gusts of wind.
Catfall allows the character to fall like a cat, always able to get his feet down first
and land standing. He only takes half damage from falls and can fall 30 feet without
any i nj ury.
Carpet Anchor PSPs 20, Int 13, Ego 8
MAC 9, MTHAC0 17
A carpet anchor looks like a normal carpet, usually measure 10 by 8 feet. It can be
made of any material, but must be woven telekinetically. The carpet is a wonderful
defensive item. Anything on it when it activates its time/space anchor devotion is pro-
tected from all forms of teleportation, time shifting and travelling, or other dimension-
al movement. The characters and objects must remain on the carpet to be protected.
Cloak of Energy Protection PSPs 9, Int 12, Ego 5
MAC 9, MTHAC0 20
Woven from the hairs of a megapede, this cloak can have any pattern of yellow and
brown. If the cloak makes its power check, it automatically absorbs any form of
electricity, fire, cold, heat, or sound directed at it. The energy is transformed into vis-
I02
ible light, making the character shine like a lantern. The cloak is using the energy
containment science, which does not require the expenditure of any PSPs. A suc-
cessful power check means he can double his die roll when saving against any of
these attack forms. For example, a roll of 7 becomes a 14, before comparing it to the
characters saving throw value. See the energy containment science for more details.
Crown of Lashing PSPs 24, Int 14, Ego 15
MAC 5, MTHAC0 15
Thi s deadl y psi oni c i tem has the ego whi p tel epathi c devoti on. Usual l y made of
ceramic, and occasionally bone, the points of the crown are each formed with the
tip of an upraised whip. It is rare for a crown of lashing to have good or benevolent
personality. They tend to enjoy lashing out at other minds. Like many bullies, it gets
sulky when it encounters a stalwart resistance.
Death Robe PSPs 12, Int 12, Ego 8
MAC 7, MTHAC0 17
Death robes come is all colors and sizes. The only requirement is that they were
once worm by an undead creature with psionic powers. Contrary to its name, this
robe does not kill its wearer. It allows him to use the suspend animation devotion.
The initial cost of this power is paid by the robe. If the power check is successful,
the wearer remains suspended until his preset, internal alarm clock wakes him, or
until the robe is removed.
Di mensi onal Pocket PSPs 12, Int 12, Ego 9
MAC 8, MTHAC0 18
There is no handier item for a thief than a dimensional pocket. This smallest of bags is
the size of a normal pocket. It is typically made from drakes hide. Its edge is lined
with tiny holes, so that it can be sewn to the inside of the owners clothing. If a needle
punctures the pocket, not through one of these holes, the item is ruined forever.
Once attached, or even if not, the pocket can be asked to activate its dimensional
door devotion. This door is only the size of the pockets opening. The owner can
then stick his hand in his pocket and have it appear at the other end of the dimen-
sional door. This is an ideal way to pick someone elses pocket. Of course, the only
things that can be retrieved back through the pocket are those that fit through a hole
of that size.
Dreamband PSPs 48, Int 16, Ego 13
MAC 5, MTHAC0 14
A dreamband is made from the tanned hide of any creature capable of dreaming. Most
often it is made of many layers of folded humanoid skin. Half a dozen small gemstones
adorn the band, which is worn around its owners skull. The dreamband has the day-
dream, and dream travel devotions. In addition, it has the ability to place its owner into
another persons dreams. This requires two power checks or mental attack rolls. The first
roll is to determine if the character can enter into the other persons dreams. If the roll
fails, he cannot try again until the next night, or when the other person next sleeps.
If the first roll is successful, he must roll again to see if he is noticed. A successful
roll means the character has not been noticed by the dreamer, assuming that he is
tryi ng to remai n hi dden. A noti ced character can communi cate wi th the dreamer,
and the dreamer will know that this is not a part of his dream. If the dreamer gets
angry, the character is in a world of hurt. Inside another persons dreams, he is com-
pletely vulnerable and cannot leave unless the dreamer allows it. The dreamer can
do anything he wants to the characters dream self. The character will remain in the
other person s dreams unti l that person awakens. Dependi ng upon how creati ve and
vicious the dreamer was, the character is in a state of complete terror for 1-24 hours.
This number is not rolled, but decided upon by the DM.
If the character is unnoticed, he can completely control the other persons dream.
This can be used to send messages, fake prophesies, or just plain give him night-
mares. Even the worst dreamband induced nightmare is still assumed to be a dream
by the other person. He might be terrified for a few rounds after waking, but will
qui ckl y recover hi s composure.
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Fire Flute PSPs 27, Int 12, Ego 9
MAC 7, MTHAC0 16
The fire flute is made from the stem of a burnflower. When played, it activates its
control flames devotion. Any fire can be controlled by the flute. It can become larger
or smaller, even be moved around and shaped. Magical fires and those of elemental
creatures are immune to the flute.
Folding Cloak PSPs 16, Int 13, Ego 12
MAC 6, MTHAC0 14
This cloak is a speckled brown, with a dull olive and white inside. These are the
same colors of the cloud ray, whose skin is used to make it. When triggered, the
i nteri or surface of thi s cl oak becomes a di mensi onal gateway wi th the di mensi onal
door devotion. It is triggered by telepathic contact. The wearer decides upon an exit
location, where he will pop out. The cloak gets its name because it seems to fold in
upon the wearer and itself, until it vanishes. So long as the cloak remains fastened
around his neck, the wearer can attempt to enfold an opponent in it. A successful
attack roll is necessary. An unwilling opponent would get a saving throw versus
magi c to avoi d bei ng moved.
Gauntlets of War PSPs 39, Int 12, Ego 10
MAC 4, MTHAC0 18
Made from bits of bone sewn together with Kirre gut, the most noticeable feature is
the distinctive hide covering. Curious characters may discover that the hide is from a
nightmare beast. These gauntlets use two powers, body weaponry and enhanced
strength to greatly augment the characters fighting prowess. The body weaponry
devotion allows his arm to become any sort of non-ranged weapon that the charac-
ter is allowed to use. Secondly, the enhance strength devotion increases his Strength,
which might give him attack and damage bonuses. Its up to the character, unless the
item overrules him, to decide how high his Strength goes, with a maximum of 18.
However, it costs two PSPs per point of Strength added.
Gloves of Decay PSPs 45, Int 15, Ego 14
MAC 4, MTHAC0 12
These gloves look brand new. Not a stitch is out of place, nor a single spot of dust
mars their fine silk weave. A side effect of the psionic powers of the gloves keeps
them in this condition. These cursed items exist only to use their powers at every
opportunity. Once a character has donned them, they bond to his skin and cannot
be removed with any form of psionics or magic short of a wish spell. The gloves are
able to cause decay anytime they are in contact with an inanimate object. Wood
warps and splits, cloth falls to dust, stone cracks an crumbles, bone becomes so brit-
tle it breaks at any contact, and leather just rots away. The gloves must make their
power check and the affected item is allowed a save vs. acid each round. Only 60
pounds of material can be affected per round. Once the item runs out of PSPs, it will
not usually attempt to cause decay again for about four hours. However, it has more
than enough i ntel l i gence to deci de otherwi se.
Helm of Iron Will PSPs 27, Int 15, Ego 11
MAC 3, MTHAC0 14
The helm is the rune covered, bony skull plate of an id fiend. The inside has been
laced with a fine web of iron threads. Greedy adventurers have been known to strip
the iron out of the helm, never knowing its true worth. A character with this helm
can use it to put up the tower of iron will defense mode. He cannot use any other
defense mode while the helm is operating.
Horn of Cl ai raudi ence PSPs 22, Int 12, Ego 8
MAC 9, MTHAC0 18
Frequently mistaken for a musical instrument, the horn looks like a simple bone
trumpet. However, it is made from the bones of a silt runner. When the small end is
placed at its owners ear, it can use its clairaudience science to listen in on remote
places. The horn cannot move its listening point once it has been established.
I04
Lyre of Silence PSPs 60, Int 12, Ego 9
MAC 5, MTHAC0 17
A l yre of si l ence i s a harp l i ke i nstrument must be strung wi th the brai ded ten-
dons of a bat. When i t i s pl ayed, i t makes no audi bl e sound. Supposedl y certai n
creatures such as pterrans and pyreens can hear its notes, but it is certain that no
pl ayer character races can. Whomever pl ays the l yre can see by i t s sound, and
hear through hi s ski n, usi ng the l yre s see sound and feel sound devoti ons, whi ch
operate si mul taneousl y. To hi m the area becomes l i t as i f by bri ght l anterns, and
al l sounds can be fel t and understood.
The range of the sound has nothi ng to do wi th i t s vol ume. Instead the ski l l of
the pl ayer i n weavi ng harmony and mel ody count. Pl ucki ng the stri ngs i n random
di scord al l ows for a 40 foot radi us of si ght. An average musi ci an, such as a typi -
cal bard can achieve a radius of 90 feet. A master musician can get a radius of
180 feet.
Maul of Power PSPs 36, Int 12, Ego 11
MAC 4, MTHAC0 14
The head of thi s huge hammer i s made from the cl aws of an earth drake. The
maul has the abi l i ty to use i t s detonate sci ence, but onl y upon i mpact, wi th any
non- l i vi ng obj ect , i ncl udi ng undead. The maul must be wi el ded wi t h t wo hands,
has a speed factor of 9, and does 1d8 points of damage, 1d10 vs. large. This
damage i s from the physi cal bl ow, not the detonate power.
Memor y Cl oak PSPs 33, Int 12, Ego 9
MAC 6, MTHAC0 15
Woven from the fi bers of a bl oodgrass pl ant, these cl oaks are usual l y a ri ch red.
Thi s cl oak i s capabl e of rememberi ng the psi oni cal l y al tered physi cal form of i t s
wearer. The wearer must have a ful l round of tel epathi c contact wi th the cl oak to
have i t store a shape. If the cl oak makes i ts power check, the wearer no l onger
pays mai ntenance costs for any psychometabol i c sci ences or devoti ons that al ters
the shape of hi s body. The cl oak pays the cost i nstead. Another round of tel epath-
i c i nstructi ons turns off the cl oak. The cl oak works wi thout needi ng a power
check.
Mi rror of Cl ai rvoyance PSPs 16, Int 12, Ego 8
MAC 9, MTHAC0 18
Al though thi s i tem l ooks l i ke a common mi rror, i t i s not. The refl ecti ve pai nt used
to coat the back of the gl ass i s mi xed wi th the ground skul l of a psi oni c cat.
When the mi rror acti vates i t s cl ai rvoyance sci ence, i t can see thi ngs far away.
Anyone el se l ooki ng i nto the mi rror sees the di stant scene. The mi rror cannot
move i t s vi ewpoi nt, but the owner can angl e hi s head to try and see to the si des.
Needle of Knowing PSPs 35, Int 16, Ego 13
MAC 7, MTHAC0 15
Thi s l arge bone needl e i s carved from the tooth of a psi oni c cat. In order to work,
the needl e must be fl oated, usual l y i n a bowl of water or oi l . It has mul ti pl e
psi oni c powers, know di recti on, know l ocati on, and radi al navi gati on. It al so has
the l i ttl e know cl ai rsenti ent devoti on ti me sense (power score, Int; i nt. cost, 1;
mai ntai n, na; range, 0; prep ti me, 5; rol l score, remai ns acti ve for the next 8
hours; rol l 20, di sori ented, has no sense of ti me for the next 8 hours). The needl e
of knowi ng i s someti mes cal l ed a know-i t-al l because of the haughty and superi or
atti tude i t has.
Robe of the Beast PSPs 24, Int 12, Ego 6
MAC 8, MTHAC0 19
These robes can be made from the hi de of vi rtual l y any psi oni c ani mal . A robe of
the beast al l ows i t s wearer to di scover and use hi s ani mal aura, as descri bed by
the ani mal affi ni ty sci ence. It i s i mportant to remember that the cl oak does not
choose the ani mal . That comes from the unconsci ous mi nd of the wearer. The
cloak has 24 PSPs it can use toward this science.
I05
Spirit Pipes PSPs 40, Int 14, Ego 11
MAC 5, MTHAC0 16
Made from the fingers of any once animated skeleton, these pipes are not meant to be
played. When activated, they use their spirit sense devotion to detect the presence of
noncoporeal undead. If the area within 15 yards is frequented by such spirits, or any
spirit is that close, it plays a haunting tune all by itself. Supposedly it has a different
tune for each type of undead. Unfortunately Athas has such a variety of undead that it
becomes very difficult to learn which tune matches which type of undead.
Sun Cloak PSPs 17, Int 12, Ego 4
MAC 9, MTHAC0 20
These cloaks are always some shade of green and made from a variety of plant fibers.
They are turned on and off by telepathic contact. Once on, the cloak absorbs sun-
light using the photosynthesis devotion (power score, Con+1; int. cost, 5; maintain,
2/turn; range, 0; prep time, 1; roll score, dont need food or water all day; roll 20,
sleeps until roused or darkness falls) from The Will and the Way accessory. For each
turn of lying motionless in the sun, the cloak heals its wearer 1 hit point. A full hour
also eliminates his need for one meal and half his daily water.
Unmovable Boots PSPs 35, Int 13, Ego 9
MAC 5, MTHAC0 15
Hard to get earth drake hide is used to make these boots. A character wearing these
boots can make hi msel f vi rtual l y unmovabl e wi th the psychometabol i c i mmovabi l i ty
devotion. A combined Strength of 150 is needed to uproot him. The character is not
any heavier or any stronger, he is just harder to move. He must be standing on a rela-
tively flat surface.
Unl que Psl onl c Ilems
On a world with cultures as rich and varied as those on Athas, there are bound to be
many unique and powerful magical and psionic creations. The following section con-
tains but a few of these. While not true artifacts, these are items of tremendous power
and intelligence that could be found by lucky player characters. This is by no means
meant to be a complete list of legendary psionic items, just a small sampling to get you
creative juices flowing.
Agafari Rod
Discipline: Psychokinesis PSPs: 48
Sciences: Telekinesis (8), telekinetic barrier (6)
Devotions: Control flames (8), ballistic attack (6), deflect (8), inertial barrier (6), levitation (8)
Intelligence: 12 Ego: 16
Alignment: Lawful Neutral
MTHAC0: 9
The Agafari Rod is a mysterious device crafted by a hermit of the Crescent Forest. It is
nearly 3-feet long and carved in the artistic fashion of Gulg, with totem-like creatures
climbing its length. A tuft of exotic feathers decorates its head. The Agafari Rod is also
enchanted as a club +2 in addition to its psionic properties.
The crafter of the Agafari Rod was a powerful druid known as the Keeper. He
fought against the logging crews of Nibenay, and occasionally aided the war parties of
Gulg by appearing to tell them where the Nibenese forces were encamped. Eventually,
the Keeper so angered the Nibenese that a party of templars was sent to track him
down and kill him. Armed with powerful sorcery, they cut a ruined swath through the
Keepers Grove, forcing him to meet them in battle. The Keeper fell, and his weapon
was taken back to Nibenay.
About five years after the expeditions return, the Agafari Rod was stolen from the
High Templars trophy chamber by a Gulgian slave who used it to kill her during his
escape. For more than 20 years, nothing has been seen of the Rod, since the slave
never appeared in Gulg again. However, its rumored that theres a new Keeper in the
forest, and the Nibenese loggers must guard constantly against attacks from the woods.
I 06
Periapt of Tierna
Discipline: Psychometabol i sm PSPs: 44
Sci ences: Compl ete Heal i ng (7)
Devotions: Body control (5), cell adjustment (6), displacement (6), mind over body (8)
Al i gnment: Lawful Good
MTHAC0: 10
The Periapt of Tierna is a pale green gemstone with a white star in its center. It was
created 2,000 years ago by a seeress of Raam named Tierna. This rich noble wan-
dered wi del y throughout the Tyr regi on and bel i eved i n ai di ng any person who
needed her help. She created the Periapt as a gift for her apprentice Relia, who
was unfortunately killed in the desert by raiders soon after leaving Tiernas tute-
lage. Since that time, the gem has passed from hand to hand across the Tablelands.
The Periapt can speak, but only does so if someone nearby is suffering and its
owner does not know of its healing abilities. It grieves for Relia and has been sad-
dened by the vi ol ence that surrounds i t. Most of i ts owners have been savage ban-
dits or marauders, and the Periapt wants to be placed in the hands of a healer to
preform i ts ori gi nal mi ssi ons.
Red Crystal of Tyr
Discipline: Cl ai rsenti ence PSPs: 59
Sciences: Clairvoyance (7), precognition (8), spirit lore (7)
Devotions: Predestination (9), see ethereal (7), see magic (9), spirit sense (8)
Alignment: LawfuI EviI
MTHAC0: 11
The Red Crystal of Tyr is a large, jagged shard of unidentified stone, about the size of
a sword hilt. Its facets are razor-sharp and can easily injure a careless handler. The
crystal is circled by two bands of copper and suspended from a copper chain. Its
creator is unknown, though it is suspected that the sorcerer-king Kalak may have cre-
ated it three Kings Ages ago.
The Red Crystal is a vicious thing with a sarcastic, mocking manner. It urges its pos-
sessor to do whatever it takes to amass power. It provides its bearer with remarkably
accurate knowledge of the future, but delights in showing possible failures and death
to its owner just to amuse itself. The Crystal attempts to master anyone claiming it.
The Crystal has been seen from time to time in the city of Tyr for decades. It is
thought that a bol d thi ef mi ght have stol en i t from Kal ak s treasury, onl y to be dri -
ven insane by the items sinister whisperings. As recently as 20 years ago, a High
Templ ar named Ki arnah embarked on a campai gn of assassi nati on agai nst hi s fel -
l ow templ ars, tryi ng to wi n Kal ak s respect. The Cryst al di sappeared fol l owi ng
Kalaks death, but it is thought to have been taken to Urik by a fleeing ex-templar.
Talisman of Torrack the Cruel
Discipline: Psychometabol i sm PSPs: 37
Sciences: Death Field (6), Life Draining (6)
Devotions: Aging (5), Double Pain (6), Enhanced Strength (8)
Alignment: Chaotic Evil
MTHAC0: 12
The Talisman of Torrack the Cruel is an obsidian circle covered in cryptic carvings,
with a silver and iron necklace attached. The Talisman was created by an insane
defiler/psionicist sometime during the last Kings Age. Torrack was a defiler of great
power who sought to conquer none other than the Shadow King of Nibenay. He was
utterly crushed by the sorcerer-king, and the Talisman fell into the hands of one of
the Shadow Kings templars. From there it passed on to many over the years, each of
them eventual l y fal l i ng prey to i ts deep-seated dementi a.
Once a person of some skill comes into contact with the Talisman of Torrack the
I07
Cruel , the devi ce begi ns mani pul ati ng i ts owner to commi t brutal and i nhuman feats
to those of less power. If the Talisman comes into the possession of someone without
the competence or power to use it properly, the device either remains inert or con-
vinces its owner to seek out someone more capable of serving its needs. The
Talisman takes great pleasure in twisting innocents to its own ends.
As someone uses the Talismans corrupt powers more and more, they are slowly
affected by delusional insanity causing the owner to believe he or she is nearing a
level of power greater than the sorcerer-kings. This false belief eventually leads to the
owner s death.
Nev Pslonlcs
Empower (devotion)
MAC: 7
PSP cost: vari es
Mai nt enance Cost : na
Range: t ouch
Area of Effect: one i t em
Prerequisites: 10th l evel
This power is similar to the psionic science of the same name, serving a purpose in cre-
ating and maintaining psionic and magical items. Unlike the science empower, this
devotion is used to create items that produce psionic effects and recharge these devices.
It does not imbue psionic devices with intelligence or extraordinary abilities. Although it
is a devotion, this version of empower is not a skill that is easily accessible to the gener-
al psionic population of Athas. This skill is rarely learned by those outside of the Order
or the tutelage of a sorcerer-king. Each item takes a set number of days to create, and
each item is different, and the secrets behind fabricating each item is usually taught by a
powerful master. It can take a decade for a psionicist to learn the methods in creating
one psionic item. The creation of these items are never left to random chance.
Like any item to either be enchanted or psionically enhanced, the device must be
of superior quality. The exact cost of the item is left to the DM. Even if the item, such
as a wand, does not have a great cost, other items such as material components used
to assist the process should be expensive.
At the beginning of each day needed to create the item, a set number of PSPs are
funneled into the item. This process takes place for a predetermined number of days,
after which the item is typically empowered and can be used. There is an initial PSP
cost when beginning the process, and a cost which must be expended each day until
the item is finished. If one day is missed, and any of the power checks fail, the cre-
ator must start over. PSP costs and number of days required is listed below:
Type of Item # Day Initial Cost Subsequent Cost
Rings 2 0 50 PSP 25 PSPs/day
W a n d / S t a f f / R o d 1 8 45 PSPS 20 PSPs/day
Mi sc. Jewel ry 15 35 PSPS 18 PSPs/day
Al l other i tems 10 30 PSPS 15 PSPs/day
Recharging Items
Certain psionic-based items can be recharged using this devotion. For simplicity sake,
each charge is equal to a number of PSP placed in the item, and once the charges are
expended all PSPs are gone. With many items, when the last PSP is used the item
becomes useless. The cost for recharging a psionic item is one-quarter the initial cost
for half as many required days to create the item for one charge. As with creating an
item, if a day is missed or a power check is failed, the process must begin again.
Empower (science)
MAC: 4 Range: t ouch
PSP Cost: vari es Area of Effect: one i tem
Mai nt enance Cost : na Prerequisites: 10th l evel
I08
Characters using this science imbue an item with rudimentary intelligence and
psionic ability. The process requires extraordinary time and effort, and is not some-
thing to be abandoned for other pursuits. Unlike the devotion empower, items creat-
ed with this science tend to be more powerful, sophisticated, and complex.
Item Requirements: An item must meet two requirements before it can be empow-
ered. Fi rst, i t must be of excepti onal qual i ty-worth 250% to 500% of the normal
cost for an item. Second, it must be newly constructed. The process of empower
must begin within 48 hours after the item is manufactured. If its delayed longer, the
i tem cannot be empowered-al l attempts automati cal l y fai l . If the i tem meets these
two requi rement, the psi oni ci st can begi n the empowerment.
Step One: At the start of each day, the psionicist must prepare the item to receive
psionic power. This costs 30 PSPs and requires a MAC check. If this check fails, the
day is wasted; no further progress can be made until the next day. If a second check
fails, which takes the process beyond 48 hours, the item cannot be empowered.
Step Two: If the item has been prepared, the psionicist can give it access to a disci-
pline. It can have access to only one discipline, never more, and the psionicist must
have access to it as well. This step cost 70 PSPs and requires a MAC check.
a MAC two points below the psionicists. At the conclusion of Step Three, the psioni-
cist must spend another 70 PSPs.
Step Three: The psionicist can attempt to empower the item with any single power
he knows within the chosen discipline (the item must have been properly prepared
on the same day). The psionicist must make two successful MAC checks: first, a
check for the chosen power (using that powers MAC score), and second, another
empower check. If both checks are successful, the item has that psionic power, with
Step Four: The psionicist can imbue the item with another power by repeating Step
Three. The item can acquire one power per day, if properly prepared.
Step Five: Prior to sealing the item (see Step Six), he MTHAC0 of the item needs to
be determined. The base MTHAC0 of any psionic item is equal to half the psioni-
cists level, rounded down, subtracted from 25. For example, a psionic item created
by a 12th l evel psi oni ci st woul d have a base MTHAC0 of 19 (12+2=6; 25-6=19).
The psionicist can improve the MTHAC0 of the item by expending additional PSPs.
For every 30 PSPs spent the MTHAC0 is improved by one (to a total number of days
equal to half the psionicist level, round down). The psionicist can only reduce the
MTAHC0 once per day, and the item must be successfully prepared each day.
Step Six: When the item has acquired all the power which the psionicist intends to
give it, the psionicist then seals the powers within the item. To do this the item must be
prepared (see Step Two), and requires a MAC check. Once sealed, the item can never
gain any additional powers-but it cant lose them either. An item that has not been
properly sealed looses one power per month until it is just a normal object again.
An empowered object has 6 PSPs per devotion and 9 per science. It has an
Intelligence score equal to its makers Intelligence minus 1d6 points, with a mini-
mum of 12. Its ego is 2 points per devotion and 3 points per science. Additional
PSPs can be added to the item by permanently exchanging PSPs of the psionicists to
the item. This is done before the object is sealed, and requires a MAC check. For
example, a psionicist with 106 PSPs can give 6 PSPs to an object, permanently
reducing his total to 100 PSPs.
The alignment of an object matches its creator. Psionic weapons tend to have
their own personality and like all intelligent weapons will try to assert their indepen-
dence. The empowering process must be unbroken. If a day passes in which the
psionicist does not at least try to prepare the object, its is finished as is. He cannot
even try to seal the powers, and theyll wear off over the course of time.
I09
Appendlx I: Clher Llfe-Shaped Ilems
Acidic Spawn (Creature, 5 hp, AC 8): This creature looks much like an urn or flask made of puls-
ing flesh. At the mouth of the urn a bowl-shaped depression secretes a powerful acid when the
creature is squeezed. The acid is strong enough to eat through fabric in one round, leather in two,
and wood in five. It is not vigorous enough to destroy stone, so it is useful for cleaning dirt and
debris from stone objects. Living creatures receive 1 point of damage per round of contact with the
acid. Acidic spawn is immune to its own acid.
Air Burster (Creature, 4 hp, AC 4): This creature looks like a foot-long tube with a large, membra-
nous air sack on one end and a round, 6-inch wide pod on the other. When pressure is placed on
the underside of the tube, the creatures membrane fills with air. An object smaller than 6 inches in
length is then be inserted into the pod. When the air sack is squeezed, air pressure ejects the object
from the pod with an explosive burst of air. Virtually any small object can be launched up to 100
yards. Charges commonly used in air bursters include grappling hooks (attached to ropes), spore
bombs, and small nets (wadded up inside the pod). In desperate situations, small, sharp objects can
be placed in the pod and fired as projectile weapons.
Air Filter (Creature, 4 hp, AC 8): This 1-foot diameter, spongy globe continuously recycles air,
breathing in carbon dioxide, smoke, and even foul odors, and breathing out pure, clean air. After
one month of use, the creature should be washed to rid it of dust, smoke particles, and everything
else it has filtered out of the air. If this is not done, it chokes to death.
Air Pump (Creature, 3 HD AC 4): This creature has a huge, expandable lung and a large, central
organ that holds air. The creature uses two trunk-like appendages to inhale air. A single air pump can
draw up to 30 cubic feet of air per round. The creature itself is a bulbous mass of flesh with a prehen-
sile trunk on either end. Its body is 10 feet across and each trunk is 6 feet long and 3 feet around.
Sometimes branch tubing is installed in the exhalation trunks to direct the airflow to different locations.
This creature is useful for circulating air in large structures, ridding enclosed spaces of befouled
atmospheres, and providing underwater chambers with fresh oxygen (large pipes or tubes often con-
nect one trunk with the surface if deep underwater).
Armspike (Tissue Graft; 4 HD, AC 4): The armspike welds itself to a hosts forearm. It has from one
to three spikes, 3 to 6 inches in length, projecting from the wielders arm. The weapon can be used
to slash and pierce in close quarter combat. Because it grafts to the arm, it frees the users hands.
Ber-ethern (Creature, 3 HD, AC 6): Ber-ethern means breeze sprites, and these creatures are the
smallest of the windriding mounts. They are insect-based flyers with room to carry only one halfling
rider and 25 pounds of cargo. They can fly up to 75 miles per hour fully loaded.
Bond (Creature, 4 HD, AC 6): This creature looks like a tube, 6 inches long, closed on both
ends. One end has a small aperture from which a syrupy gel is produced. The gel hardens quickly,
bonding whatever materials are joined. It makes a powerful, permanent seal and is used to fill or
repair holes in constructions and fix broken equipment. A bend bars roll is required to break the
bond. Because of its organic nature, the gel can even repair damaged life-shaped tissue items. It
cannot be used on creatures.
Climbdog (Creature, 2 HD, AC 8): This beast resembles a wolf with wide, grasping paws and
extremely flexible legs, to allow them to climb even sheer, rocky slopes. They accompany climbers,
providing them with protection and aiding them with keen senses of smell, hearing, and eyesight.
These senses are all twice as good as the average halflings. In times of danger or combat, they sacri-
fice themselves without hesitation to protect their masters.
Climbing Gloves (Tissue, 1 HD, AC 8): These gloves change texture and shape for better adhesion
to the climbing surface. They add a +5 bonus to climbers chances to climb. The bonus is cumulative
with bonuses from climbing boots, but the maximum chances are still 99%. Because of their mal-
leability, climbing gloves can be worn by any humanoids smaller than half-giants.
Clingpad (Tissue, 1 HD, AC 8): These pieces of leathery tissue are 1-foot in diameter, have the
same properties of clingbags, and can support up to 20 pounds of weight. Both sides secrete the
same adhesive, enabling them to be used to join different items.
Cosmetic Skin Graft (Tissue, 1d4 hp, AC 8): These grafts are minor and the drain upon hosts is
negligible no matter how long they are worn. Most of them are designed as symbols displaying the
wearers membership in an organization, such as the vher-elus. These are often called badge grafts,
others are merely decorative.
Dark Cloak (Creature, 2 HD, AC 5): These shapes are the result of an accident, and, unknown
even to the life-shapers who created them, they have acquired psionic powers similar to wild talents.
A dark cloak is really a psicloak, a living wrap that gives its wearer psionic protection. It offers a
physical and a mental AC of 5.
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Darkstrike (Creature, 1 HD, AC 8, #At 1, Dmg 1d4 [bite]): These guardians are attached to walls, 10
other surfaces, with an adhesive. If possible, a darkstrike blends into the shadows. They are usually-
placed within nooks or around corners so that they can hide. When preselected conditions are met,
this creature strikes at any available target with a fearsome bite. The darkstrike has the ability to sense
motion using sonar similar to a bats, so conditions are usually based on movement. Conditions
include the detection of movement based on the amount of light (day or night), the number of figures
passing by the creature, the size, race, or species of the figures passing by, or any similar criterion.
Deathspray (Creature, 4 HD, AC 6): This creature resembles a 2-foot long, scaled tube with a
wide, bulbous nodule on one end and a narrow opening at the other. The creature produces a caus-
tic, poisonous venom that can be sprayed from the aperture to a distance of 15 feet. An attack roll
required. The spray inflicts 1d6 damage, but a saving throw vs. poison is required. The poison is Ty
H. The venom must be sprayed in the eyes, nose, or mouth.
Detoxifiers (Creatures, 1 hp, AC 10): These tiny creatures are suspended in a liquid that the patient
consumes. These tiny, virtually microscopic organisms enter the patients bloodstream and vital
organs, isolating all toxic substances. In 2d4 rounds they completely neutralize all poisons. They do
not repair damage already sustained, but they can prevent damage from occurring if taken in time.
Once they have performed their function, they are flushed from the system and die.
Dhev-sahr (Creature, 3 HD, AC 6): The dhev-sahr is the only land-based mount made by the rhul-
thaun life-shapers. Its body is round with four long legs. Two halflings can ride comfortably on top.
Directional Sensor (Creature, 2 hp, AC 8): This tiny, cone-shaped creature always senses north,
pointing its narrow end in that direction whenever placed on a flat surface.
Disposer (Creature, 2 HD, AC 4): This pod creature is 4 feet tall and 3 feet wide. It has an aperture
at its top that is as wide as its body and functions as the creatures mouth. The disposer is entirely
digestive system. It can break down virtually any organic waste materialfood scraps, human waste
dead creatures, or plant material. It converts these substances into gases-and into the soupy paste
known to the shapers as pith.
Dry Anchor (Tissue, 1 HD, AC 8): This sticky blob of organic putty secretes a strong adhesive that
is unaffected by moisture. Climbers use it to counter wet surfaces. By sticking dry anchors to the
rocks, they can use them as dry handholds or anchors for hooks and ropes despite the mist.
Drycloak (Product): This cloak is not a living creature, but merely an organic product of life-shaped
engineering. It appears to consist of a particularly slick, shiny cloth. The cloaks main function is to
keep the wearer dry by repelling water. Rain and mist droplets simply bead and run off the cloak in
rivulets. It can be modified during crafting to fit any humanoid creature smaller than a half-giant.
Eyehand (Tissue, Graft; 1d4 hp, AC 8): An eyehand is a strange graft that can be placed on the
palm of a humanoids hand. It resembles a flattened eye and feeds visual information through the
nerves in the hosts arm as if it were a normal eye. When the eyehand is used, the wearers normal
eyes should be closed to prevent sensory overload and disorientation. The eye has a thick eyelid
closes when the hand is used so that the eye is protected. The eyehand is useful for looking back-
ward, peering around corners, and similar situations.
Food Producers (Creatures, 1d4 hp, AC 8): Food producers come in many varieties. Bar-edum are
soft-backed, turtle creatures that produce eggs. Don-eguth are small tree growths that sprout from
bulbs and produce sweet, reddish fruit. Chuhn-egil give milk from their bulbous bodies and vash-erat
sprout large amounts of tiny grains on their body that is then sheared and ground into flour.
Furnace (Creature, 2 HD, AC 6): This globular creature is about 3 feet across. It generates an inor-
dinate amount of heat-the equivalent of a several large, roaring campfires.
Cillmask (Creature, 1 HD, AC 8): Similar to a breather, the gillmask fits over the mouth and nose
of the wearer. Along its sides, it has gill slits that perform like those of fish. The wearer can breathe
underwater while wearing the mask. The masks fit virtually any creatures smaller than half-giants.
Glow Graft (Tissue, 1 d4 hp, AC 8): These grafts are similar to glow pods. They create light through
bioluminescence and produce light to equivalent to that of a torch.
Con-evauth (Creature, 4 HD, AC 6): This windrider mount is also called a soar whale and some-
times (usually by outsiders who see them from afar) an airship. A gon-evauth is huge and balloon-
shaped, able to keep itself aloft in the winds of the cliffs by filling its large inner cavities with hot,
moist air. Windriders ride either atop the floating beasts or in a gondola affixed underneath the beast
that can carry up to eight halflings or one windrider and a ton of cargo. Fully loaded, a soar whale
moves at a top speed of 30 miles per hour.
Grasping Hook (Creature, 2 HD, AC 8): Similar to conventional grappling hooks, this tool resem-
bles a claw with four talons spaced equidistantly around a central palm. When the palm is stimulat-
ed, the claws reflexively clench. Attached to ropes and flung to grasp secure objects, grasping hooks
are very useful to climbers. The hooks have a grasping Strength of 20.
III
Grasping Rod (Creature, 1 HD, AC 8): This is a grasping hook mounted on a sturdy, organic pole,
10 feet in length. It is useful for reaching and snatching objects that are otherwise out of normal reach.
Healing Patch (Tissue, 1 hp, AC 8): More potent than bloodclots, these fleshy patches release heal-
ing chemicals and medicines into the systems of the creatures to which they are applied. The healing
patches restore 1 d8 points of damage. After this immediate use, they wither and die.
Hurling Titan (Tissue, 4 HD, AC 4): This weapon resembles a large mace or (especially in the
hands of a halfling) a maul. Like other shaped melee weapons, it consists of hardened tissue. The
hurling titans head has a liquid core, however. When swung, the nucleus creates a momentum of
centrifugal force, allowing it to do great damage despite its size.
Joiner (Tissue Graft, 1 hp, AC 8): A joiner is a sophisticated healing graft that facilitates the rejoining
of severed limbs. It is a thin mass of tissue that is literally placed between a severed limb and the stump
to which it was formerly connected. The joiner mends bone tissue, reconnects blood vessels and mus-
cle tissue, and reestablishes nerve connections. For 2d6 days after this operation, the patient cannot
move at all. After this period there is a 75% chance that the joiner has successfully facilitated the reat-
tachment of the limb to the body. At this point, the graft becomes part of the host, and no longer drains nutri-
ents. If the part to be attached was not an original limb of the patient, the chance of success is only 50%.
Lifechair (Creature, 4 hp, AC 8): This life-shape actually includes a number of different kinds of fur-
niture. Sofas, beds, lounge chairs, and even life-shaper designed tables, each grown to be soft, sturdy,
and either comfortably warm or pleasantly cool. Many find the pulsing of the lifechairs body fluids to
be restful when they retire. Strangers to life-shaped objects are unable to distinguish between this fur-
niture and that of the normal, nonliving sort-until they sit and feel one for a moment.
Lightning Generator (Creature, 2 HD, AC 8): This creature is a barrel-shaped pod 4 feet tall and 2
feet wide. It generates and builds up static electricity within specialized organs, releasing the energy
as a 6d6 lightning bolt cast by a 6th-level wizard. The bolt is directed by an operator with a 3-foot
long wand connected by a flexible cord to the generator. These tools are actually parts of the creature
itself. One bolt can be fired every 15 minutes, but the generator only produces if left idle (that is, it
cannot be jostled, damaged, carried, or otherwise disturbed). This makes a useful weapon for defense,
but it cannot be carried into battle. If placed in the carriage of a soar whale, there is a 25% chance
that even the slow, gentle movement of that creature prevents it from operating at any given time.
Lightvisor (Tissue, 1d4 hp, AC 8): This graft fits over the eyes of a host like a blindfold or a mask,
although it can be pushed up onto the forehead when not in use. The visor resembles a hat brim.
When the host looks through the reddish membranes covering the eye holes, the lightvisor allows him
to see normally in situations where there is very little light. It is useless, however, in total darkness.
Lock, Hard Key (Creature, 1 HD, AC 4): This resembles a normal lock and key, similar to those
found anywhere on Athas. It is made of hard organic tissue, though, and the key does not trip the
mechanism. Instead, the symbiotic key stimulates a reflex within the creature-lock to clench or
unclench its clawed clasp. When purchased, the lock comes with the symbiotic key, also made from
hard, organic tissue. (The key is not alive, but rather an organic product.) This lock can be picked.
Lock, Soft Key (Creature, 1 HD, AC 6): This special lock has a clawed clasp, but there is no key
hole, or at least not a conventional one. The main body of this lock appears to be a simple pod with
the ability to chemically decompose organic molecules and read them, identifying patterns unique
to each living creature. The only way to cause the lock to open or close is to place specifically
designed living tissue against the pod, allowing the chemicals within the pods outer layers to read
the tissues organic signature. A soft-key lock can be tailored so that the required tissue is the flesh of
a specific individual. Thus, the lock can only be opened or locked only by the touch of a particular
person. The key could also be another specific shaped creation, such as a warstaff, or a coolcloak, or
a special living key can be made to fit the lock. There is no way to pick this lock.
Lockpick (Creature, 4 hp AC 6): This creature is made of malleable tissue that can be inserted into
a hard key lock. It adapts and attempts to match the shape of the key required to open the lock, giv-
ing lock pickers a +10 bonus to their chance to pick a lock.
Malleable Tool (Creature, 4 hp, AC 4): Similar to a lockpick, this creatures tissue is malleable, and
can be shaped like putty. It can be worked, however, only with smooth, soft strokes. It is resistant to
firm pressure and hard blows, making it a useful tool when shaped into the form of a blade, an ax, a
pick, a crowbar, a small shovel, a hook, or any other necessary form. The tool has enough mass to be
shaped into any of those tools, or virtually any other item weighing 10 pounds or less.
Poison Nodule (Tissue, 2 hp, AC 10): This is a tiny (1/2 inch diameter) organic pod that produces
and secretes a virulent toxin. Like clingbags, they have adhesive backs that allow them to be
attached to other things. Commonly, they are placed on bladed weapons to coat them with the poi-
sonous secretion. Poison nodules produce Class B poisons (Method: Injection, Onset: 2-12 minutes;
Strength: 20/1-3).
II2
Mimicskin (Creature 1d4 hp, AC 8): This is applied much in the same way as sheath armor.
It provides no protection, however. Instead, it can obey the mental commands of the wearer
and alter his outward appearance (making it one of the most sophisticated of all artifact-
shapes.) The limits of this disguise are as an alter self spell. Simply put, the wearer can appear
as any humanoid creature with 50% of his mass. The skin, however, can only make the wearer
appear the same size or larger, never smaller.
Motive Engine (Creature, 2 HD, AC 6): This creature is made to drive or move simple
machines like flour grinders, pulley systems, elevator platforms, and even gates. A motive
engine looks like a large mass of muscle with one to four huge arms that pull, push, turn and
manipulate large, simple objects.
Preservation Fluid (Product): This soup preserves organic material from decomposition. It
may be used to preserve severed limbs so that they can be reattached with a joiner.
Protector (Creature, 1 HD, AC 8, #At 1, Dmg 1d6 [bite]): This creature is essentially a guard
dog, although it actually appears more feline. It can be instructed to recognize intruders and
attack. The protector can flawlessly discriminate between those it is to protect and those that
present an obvious danger.
Recorder (Creature, 1d4 hp, AC 8): This device resembles a cube, 5 inches to a side. In a
manner unknown to even the most enlightened modern shaper, the cube is able to capture
sounds and replay them any number of times. One recording of up to 10 minutes in length,
can be stored for each cube face. There is only one known in existence today, and it is never
used to store new sounds. It holds the Dal-erat, or the word of the people, a message from
ancient times regarding the values of life spoken by an unknown life-shaper or high lord.
Scrubslug (Creature, 2 hp, AC 8): This creature looks like a large, foot-long slug. It moves
silently through a home or business place devouring dust, lint, dirt and other particle matter. It
also absorbs spilled liquids, crumbs, and food messes. It converts these materials into a quick-
drying waxy polish that is excreted in a slimy trail behind it. It is organically programmed to
move methodically over floors and walls, leaving behind spotless, shiny surfaces. Since they
move slowly, large buildings are best served using a number of these creatures.
Shieldswarm (Creature, 1/2 hp, AC 8, #At 1, Dmg 1d2 [bite]): These insectoid creations are 6
inches long and can fly up to 30 miles per hour. A swarm consists of 50 to 100 of these shield-
bugs. They accompany windriders on their mounts (usually resting on the windriding mount
until needed), flying up and around their master screening out intruders and attacks. Each can
detect a light ranged attack and the swarm as a whole can obscure the rider. They can also be
commanded to swarm and harass the riders foes in battle.
Shockwand (Tissue, 3 HD, AC 4): A shockwand is a rod of hardened tissue, 6 inches in
length. The wand absorbs static electricity from its surroundings, storing it for later use. When
one end is squeezed, the other releases an electrical charge. The shockwand was designed for
use in the life-shaping process (where electrical stimulation is often necessary to achieve the
proper biochemical reaction state), but it can have other uses as well. As a weapon, it inflicts
1d4 points of electrical damage per touch. It is useful for prodding along large herd beasts and
for evil characters when interrogating prisoners.
Slicksuit (Tissue, 2 HD, AC 4): This full body suit is crafted solely to fit halflings and halfling-
size humanoids-no other sizes exist. Its surface is very smooth and it secretes an oily, slick
liquid that coats the entire suit. The effect of this is similar to the magical oil of slipperiness,
making it impossible for the wearer to be grabbed, grasped, constricted, or hugged by an
opponent. Bonds such as ropes and manacles can easily be slipped loose. It requires a great
effort for the liquid to be generated by the suit. Once used, the effect lasts for only four hours
before the tissue suit requires a full 24-hours to replenish its supply of oil.
Spinethrower (Creature, 4 HD, AC 4): This weapon resembles a spiked mace. The head is
covered with 1d4+10 spines, from one to three inches long. Besides its use as a melee
weapon, however, it can be stimulated to fire its spines at foes at a distance of up to 90 yards.
It fires 1d6 spines per round, each inflicting 1d3 points of damage (each requires its own
attack roll and all of them must be thrown at the same target). The spines grow back in 1d4
days.
Spore Pod (Tissue, 4 hp, AC 8): These small weapons are organic spheres that look like tiny
eggs. Each can be thrown at a target. They burst open on contact and release a cloud of tiny
spores. The spores explode in a radius of 10 feet and have the potential to affect every breath-
ing creature in that area, though life-shaped breathermasks do protect against spores and dan-
gerous gases. There are three types of spore pods, and the spores they contain can have one of
three different effects.
II3
The effect of the first type of spore is irritation. The spores cover living foes and cause them to
itch, sneeze, and suffer from blurred vision. When a spore pod opens, everyone within 10 feet
must make a saving throw vs. poison or be debilitated for one round (no actions possible). After
that, they suffer a -1 penalty to attacks and damage for 1d4 days.
The second kind of pod produces sleep spores that their victims to fall into a deep hallucino-
genic fit of unconsciousness. The effect lasts for 1d4+1 rounds and must be resisted by a saving
throw vs. poison by all within 10 feet of the spore pod. The last type is the most dangerous. Poison
spores act as Class I poisons (Method: Ingested; Onset: 2-12 minutes; Strength: 30/15) on all those
within 10 feet of the pods burst.
Stealthboots (Tissue, 3 HD, AC 6): These seemingly normal leather boots are grown in a way
that reduces the amount of noise made by a wearers footsteps. Thieves gain a +10% bonus to
move silently (to a maximum of 99%), while nonthieves (or thieves with a move silently skill of less
than 10%) who wear the boots have a base 20% chance to move without sound. The boots can be
designed to fit any size humanoid up to a half-giant.
Storage Pod (Creature, 3 HD, AC 6): These creatures are egg-shaped, with dark shells covering
their hides. They open by peeling down their outer skins to expose large, empty cavities. Up to 5
cubic feet of material can be placed inside one of these pods and then sealed within it. Either hard
or soft keyed locks may be attached to keep the contents secure, but soft keys are preferred.
Swim Fins Graft (Tissue, 1d4 hp, AC 8): These grafts attach themselves to a hosts hands and
feet. As the name suggests, they are swimming aides. Swim fin grafts can increase a users speed
and the amount of time he can swim without tiring by 50%. Each of the fins absorbs nutrients
from the host, so wearing four can be draining.
Textile Producers (Creatures, 1d4, AC 8): The shed skin of the snakelike drun-sahn can be cured
into strong leather, while the slow-moving herd animals known as fis-evar grow long wool that is
sheared and spun into fabric. The ghov-erad is a flat, nonmobile creature that secretes a thin film.
The film hardens into the material used to make drycloaks.
Touch Pads Graft (Tissue, 1d4 hp, AC 8): Grafts are tiny, circular pads that attach to fingers.
They increase the hosts sensitivity to touch. Searching for traps or picking locks is easier with
these grafts, the chances for the success of such actions are increased by 10% (to a maximum of
99%). One is needed on each finger, thumb, and the palm to be effective, although six of these
grafts only drains the host as much as one normal graft.
Warmcloak (Creature, 2 HD, AC 8): Similar to a coolcloak, this thick wooly cloak maintains a
high body temperature that keeps the wearer quite comfortable in cold weather. There is little call
for this item, Athas being what it is even on the cliffs, but the shapers make a few of them for
climbers who must deal with harsh night winds out on the open rock. Then too, tragic experience
has taught the shapers that when an item ceases to be crafted, the knowledge of its making is soon
lost. These cloaks can be altered to accommodate any humanoid creatures smaller than half-
giants.
Water Condenser (Creature, 2 HD, AC 8): This creature looks like a 3-foot diameter bowl. It
extracts moisture from the air and stores-up to 50 gallons of water in the bowl. The bowl can be
covered by a flap of skin to prevent evaporation. It condenses water automatically and continu-
ously until it senses that the bowl is full.
Warstaff (Tissue, 4 HD, AC 4): This weapon is 5 feet long and made of hardened tissue. One,
and occasionally both ends, have heavy, spherical heads on which are fixed five 6-inch blades.
Four of the razor-sharp knives project outward in the four compass points. The fifth barb extends
directly out from the head.
Watcher (Creature 4 hp, AC 8): A watcher is a reptilian creature with large, bulbous eyes pos-
sessed of virtually 360 degree vision. If the watcher observes a specific sight preselected by its
master, it lets out a loud keening sound.
Water Pump (Living Creature 2 HD, AC 6): This creature has a huge, expandable lung as well as
a large stomach organ that holds water. Two appendages shaped like trunks draw in and expel
water. A single water pump can displace up to 10 gallons per round. Like the air pump, the crea-
ture is a bulbous mass of flesh with prehensile trunks on either end. The creatures body is 10 feet
across and each trunk is 6 feet long. Sometimes tubing reeds are attached to the expulsion trunk to
allow the water to travel greater distances.
Yihn-eflan (Creature, 3 HD, AC 6): Yihn-eflan are windriding mounts whose name means gust
climber. The yihn-eflan is an avian creature with huge, oversized wings. One to three riders can
ride safely on its back, or 200 pounds of cargo and a single rider. Fully loaded, a gust climber can
reach speeds up to 50 miles per hour.
II4
Appendlx II: Dark Sun Maglcal Ilem Tables
Entries in italics are new items found in this accessory.
TA8LE I: MACICAL ITEMS
1d100 roll Category
1-19 Fruits, potions, and oils
20- 33 Scrolls
34- 37 Rings
3 8 Rods
3 9 Staves
40- 42 Wands
43- 49 Li fe-shaped i tems
50-51 Life-shaped Engines, Guardians, Producers and Transports
52- 54 Miscellaneous Items: Jewels and Jewelry
55- 56 Miscellaneous Items: Cloaks and Robes
57- 58 Mi scel l aneous Items: Boots and Gl oves
5 9 Mi scel l aneous Items: Gi rdl es and Hel ms
60-61 Miscellaneous Items: Bags and Bottles
62 Miscellaneous Items: Dusts and Stones
63 Miscellaneous Items: Household Items and Tools
6 4 Mi scel l aneous Items: Musi cal Instruments
65- 66 Miscellaneous Items: The Weird Stuff
67- 76 Armor and Shi el ds
77- 100 Weapons
Note: There are no magical books or tomes in Athas.
TA8LE 2: FRUITS. PCTICNS. AND CILS (D6)
Subtable A (1-2)
1d20 roll I tem XP
1 Ani mal Cont r ol * 2 5 0
2 Cl ai r audi ence 2 5 0
3 Cl ai rvoyance 300
4 Cl i mbi ng 300
5- 6 Del usi on**
7 Di mi nut i on 300
8 Drake Cont rol 100
9 ESP 500
10-11 Extra-heal i ng 4 0 0
12 Fire Breath 4 0 0
13 Fire Resistance 2 5 0
14 Fl yi ng 500
15 Gaseous Form 3 0 0
16 Giant Strength
(Warrior) Athasian giants,
90% Str 23, 10% Str 24 550
17 Gr owt h 2 5 0
18- 19 Heal i ng 2 0 0
2 0 DM s Choi ce
II5
Subtable B (3-4)
1d20 roll I tem
1 Heroi sm (Warri or)
2 Invi si bi l i ty
3 Invul nerabi l i ty (Warri or)
4 Levi tati on
5 Longevi t y
6 Mi nd Bl ank
7 Oil of Acid Resistance
8 Oi l of Ar mor
9 Oi l of Di senchantment
10 Oi l of Dryness
11 Oi l of El emental
l nvul nerabi l i ty
12 Oil of Etherealness
13 Oil of Feather Falling
14 Oi l of Fi ery Burni ng
15 Oil of Fumbling
16 Oi l of Impact
17 Oi l of Maski ng
18 Oil of Slipperiness
19 Oil of Timelessness
2 0 DM s Choi ce
Subtable C (5-6)
1d20 I tem
1 Philter of Glibness
2 Philter of Love
3 Philter of Persuasiveness
4 Phi l ter of Stammeri ng
and Stuttering
5- 6 Poison
7 Pol ymorph Sel f

8 Psi oni c Boosti ng
9 Rai nbow Hues
10 Restore Psionics
11 Si l t Breathi ng
12 Speed
13- 14 Super-heroi sm (Warri or)
15 Sweet Water
16 Treasure Finding
17 Undead Control
(onl y mi ndl ess undead)

18 Vent r i l oqui sm
19 Vi t al i t y
2 0 DM s Choi ce
XP
300
2 5 0
350
2 5 0
500
2 5 0
500
500
750
3 0 0
500
600
700
500
750
350
4 0 0
500
XP
500
2 0 0
4 0 0
2 0 0
300
2 0 0
4 5 0
4 0 0
2 0 0
4 5 0
500
600
500
2 0 0
300
The type of creature affected can be determined by die roll (see the specific item description for more
Information).
The DM shouldnt reveal the exact nature of the potion.
See DARK SUN Campaign setting (#2438)

II6
TA8LE 3: SCRCLLS (D6)
Subtable A (1-4)
1d20 Roll I tem
1-3 1 spell
4- 5 1 spell
6 1 spell
7 2 spells
8 2 spells
9 3 spells
10 3 spells
11 4 spells
12 4 spells
13 5 spells
14 5 spells
15 6 spells
16 6 spells
17 7 spells
18 7 spells
19 7 spells
2 0 DM s Choi ce
Level Range*
1d4
1d6
2d4+1 ( 1d6+1)
1d4
2d4+1 ( 1d6+1)
1d4
2d4+1 ( 1d6+1)
1d6
1d8 (1d6)
1d6
1d8 (1d6)
1d6
1d6+2 (1d4+2)
1d8
1d8+1 (1d6+1)
1d6+3 (1d4+3)
* Level Range lists the die roll to determine individual spell levels on the scroll. Ranges in parentheses
are used to determine priest spells.
The XP Value for spells scrolls is equal to the total spell levels contained on the scroll x 100.
Subtable B (5-6)
1d20 I tem
1 Ma p
2 Pr ot ect i onAci d
3 Prot ect i onEart h
4 ProtectionElectricity
5- 6 Protecti onEl emental s
7 Protecti onFi re
8 Protecti onGas
9 Prot ect i onI nsect s
10-11 Protecti onMental Invasi on
12 Protecti onPetri fi cati on
13 Protecti onPl ants
14 Protecti onPoi son
15 Protecti onPossessi on
16 Protecti onSi l t Horrors
17 Pr ot ect i onUndead
18 Scrol l of Il l umi nati on
19 Cursed
2 0 DM s Choi ce
XP Value
2, 500
1, 500
1, 500
1, 500
2, 000
2, 000
1, 000
1, 500
2, 000
1, 000
1, 000
2, 000
1, 000
1, 500
1, 000
II7
TA8LE 4: RINCS (D6)
Subtable A (1-4)
1d20 Roll I tem
1 Animal Friendship
2 Animal Influence
3 Bl i nki ng
4 Chameleon Power
5 Cl umsi ness
6 Contrari ness
7 Cool ness
8- 9 Del usi on
10 Elemental Command
11 Feather Falling
1 2 Fire Resistance
13 Free Action
14 Human Influence
1 5 Invi si bi l i ty
1 6 Jumpi ng
1 7 Life
1 8 Mi nd Shi el di ng
19 Protecti on
2 0 DM s Choi ce
Subtable B (5-6)
1d20 I tem
1 MAC Prot ect i on
2- 3 Protecti on
4 Psi oni c At t ack
5 Psi oni c Mast ery
6 Psionic Storage
7 Regenerati on
8 Si l t Wal ki ng
9 Shocki ng Grasp
10 Shooting Stars
11 Spell Turning
12 Sustenance
13 Telekinesis
14 Ti me Shi fti ng
15 Truth
Warmth 16
17 Weakness
18 Wishes, Three
19 X-Ray Vision
2 0 DM s Choi ce
See DARK SUN Campaign setting (#2438)

XP Value
1, 000
1, 500
1, 000
1, 000
1, 000
5, 000
1, 000
1, 000
1, 000
2, 000
1, 500
1, 000
500
1, 000
1, 000/ pl us
XP Value
1, 000/ pl us
1, 000/ pl us
1, 000/ pl us
4, 000
2, 500
5, 000
1, 000
1, 000
3, 000
2, 000
1, 000
2, 000
2, 500
1, 000
1, 000
3, 000
4, 000
II8
TA8LE 5: RCDS
1d20 Roll I tem XP Value
1-2 Al ertness 7, 000
3 Beguiling (Priest, Wizard, Rogue) 5, 000
4 Cancel l at i on 10, 000
3, 500
2, 000
6, 000
5, 000
1, 500
10, 000
8, 000
3, 000
4, 000
2, 500
3, 000
5 Divining
6 Fl ai l i ng
7 Lordl y Mi ght (Warri or)
8 Passage
9- 10 Rani ke
11 Resurrection (Priest)
12 Rul ershi p
13- 14 Securi ty
15- 16 Smiting (Priest, Wizard)
17 Spl endor
18- 19 Terror
2 0 D M s C h o i c e
See DARK SUN Campaign setting (#2438).

TA8LE 6: STAVES
1d20 Roll I tem
1 Command (Pri est, Wi zard)
2- 3 Curing (Priest)
4 Desert Travel (Priest, Halfling)
5- 6 Mac e
7 Magi (Wi zard)
8 Pain
9 Power (Wi zard)
10 Rani ke
11 Serpent (Priest)
12-13 Slinging (Priest)
14-15 Spear
16- 17 Striking (Priest, Wizard)
18- 19 Wi t her i ng
2 0 DM s Choi ce
TA8LE 7: VANDS
1d20 Roll I tem
1 Desert Wi nds
2 Earth and Stone
3 Enemy Detecti on
4 Fear (Priest, Wizard)
5 Fire (Wizard)
6 Fl ame Exti ngui shi ng
7 I l l umi nat i on
8 I l l usi on (Wi zard)
9 Li ght ni ng (Wi zard)
10 Magi c Det ect i on
11 Magi c Mi ssi l es
12 Negat i on
13 Obsi di an Det ect i on
14 Paral yzti on (Wi zard)
15 Pol ymorphi ng (Wi zard)
16- 17 Psi oni c Detecti on
18 Psi oni c Negati on
19 Showers
2 0 DM s Choi ce
XP Value
5, 000
6, 000
5, 000
1, 500
15, 000
1, 500
12, 000
2, 500
7, 000
2, 000
1, 000/ pl us
6, 000
8, 000
XP Value
2, 500
1, 000
2, 000
3, 000
4, 500
1, 500
2, 000
3, 000
4, 000
2, 500
4, 000
3, 500
1, 500
3, 500
3, 500
2, 500
3, 500
2, 000
II9
TA8LE 8: LIFE-SHAPED ITEMS (D6)
Subtable A (1)
1d20 Roll I tem
1 Air Burster
2 Air Filter
3 Acidic Spawn
4 Ar mbl ade
5- 6 Armspike
7 Bl oodcl ot
8 Bond
9 Breathermask
10 Bur r ower
11 Chamel eon Cl oak
12 Cl awgrafts
13 Cl i mbi ng Boots
14 Cl i mbi ng Gl oves+
15 Cl i ngbag
16 Clingpad
17-18 Cl i ngr ope

19 Cool cl oak
2 0 DM s Choi ce
See Windriders of the Jagged Cliffs (#2439)

Subtable B (2)
1d20 Roll I tem
1 Cosmetic Skin (Graft)
2 Dar kboot s
3 Dark Cloak
4 Deathspray
5 Det oxi f i er st
6 Directional Sensor
7 Disposer
8 Dry Anchor
9 Drycloak
10 Earial
11 Eyehandt
12 Eyestalks
13 Face-eater
14 Farspeaker
15 Fl ashl ance
16 Flexars
17 Gillmask
18 Glider (Graft)
19 Glow Graft
20 DM s Choi ce
XP Value
900
1, 000
1, 000
750
750
250 each
600
2 0 0
750
500
4 0 0
4 0 0
2 5 0
2 0 0
4 0 0
600
XP Value
300
2, 000
1, 200
500
500
300
2 0 0
2 0 0
2 5 0
1, 500
500
2, 000
1, 500
750 each
350
1, 000
4 0 0
See Windriders of the Jagged Cliffs (#2439).

I20
Subtable D (4)
1d20 Roll I tem
1 Lock, Soft Key
2 Lockpick
3 Mandi bl es
4 Mandible Tool
5 Mimicskin
6 Mot her
7 Mysk
8 Mysk, False
9 Ni ght eye
10 Ol f act ors
11 Pathfi nder
12 Platons
13 Poi son Nodul e
14 Preservation Fluid
15 Psi -cl oak

16 Recorder
17 Qui ckst r i ke
18 Scrubslug
19 Sensel i nk
2 0 DM s Choi ce

XP Value
500
1, 500
4 0 0
300
1, 200
5, 000
750
750 each
4 0 0
1, 000
750
2 5 0
500
2 5 0
3, 000
5, 000
500
3 0 0
Subtable C (3)
1d20 Roll I tem
1 Gl owpods
2 Gr appl er
3 Grasping Hook
4 Grasping Rod
5 Healer Patch
6 Heal er Pod
7 Hurling Titan
8 l ngeni es
9 Ironthread
10 Joiner
11 Kl acker
12 Lens
13 Lens, Red
14 Lifechair
15 Life Leech
16 Life Leech Sword
17 Li ghtni ng Generator
18 Lightvisor
19 Lock, Hark Key
2 0 DM s Choi ce

XP Value
2 0 0
2 0 0
1, 000
4 0 0
1, 200
7, 500
500 each
600
4 0 0
750
600
500 each
500
200/ quar t
3, 500
2, 000
1, 000
200 each
3 0 0
I2I
Subtable E (5)
1d20 Roll I tem
1 Sensor
2 Shockst i ck
3 Shockwand
4 Sl apper
5 Sl eekoi l
6 Slicksuit
7 Sool mons
8 Spi neshi el d
9- 10 Spinethrower
11-12 Spore pods
Irri tant
Sl eep
Poison
13 Stealthboots
14 Storage Pod
15 Suct i on Di sk
16 Swim Fins (Graft)
17 Tail, Agile
18 Tail, Gladiators
19 Tai l , Graspi ng
2 0 DM s Choi ce

Subtable F (6)
1d20 Roll I tem
1 Tail, Runt
2 Tendoni Is
3 Tongue of Neural Lashi ng
4- 5 Touch Pad (Grafts)
6 Trackboots
7 Vel ocets
8 Venom Whi p
9 Vi grons
10- 11 Warmcl oak
12 Warneye
13 Warstaff
14 Wat chpack
15 Water Condenser
16- 17 Water Sniffer
18- 19 Watersponge
2 0 DM s Choi ce
XP Value
600
1, 000
4 0 0
1, 000
750
1, 500
500 each
1, 000
800
2 0 0
4 0 0
800
700
4 0 0
2 5 0
4 0 0
2, 500
3, 000
2, 000
XP Value
5 0 0
500 each
1, 500
4 0 0
1, 000
500 each
2, 000
500 each
5 0 0
750
1, 000
1, 000
1, 500
1, 000
3 0 0
I22
TA8LE 9: LIFE-SHAPED TRANSPCRTS.
CUARDIANS. ENCINES. & PRCDUCERS
Subtable A (1)
1 Air Pump
5 0 0
2- 3 Arrowhead Gecko 500
4 Ber-ethern
1, 000
5 Climbdog
2, 000
6 Cl ot hwor ms 100
7 Darkstriket
1, 600
7 Dhev-sahr
800
8 Food Producers
Bar-edum 100
Don- egi I 50/ bul b
Chuhn- egi l 2 0 0
Vash-erat 2 0 0
9 Furnace
4 0 0
10 Gon-evauth
1, 500
11 Motive Engine
8 0 0
12 Protector
3, 000
13 Shieldswarm
3, 500
14 Spl i tter 4, 000
15 Textile Producers
Drun-sahn 100
Fis-evar 150
Ghov- er ad 2 0 0
16 Watcher
2, 000
17 Water Pump
4 0 0
18 Weeper 3, 000
19 Yihn-eflan
1, 000
2 0 DM s Choi ce
TA8LE I0: MISCELLANECUS ITEMS:
1EVELS. 1EVELY. PYLACTERIES (D6)
Subtable A (I-3)
1d20 Roll I tem
1 Amul et of the Dragon
2 Amul et of Inescapabl e Locati on
3 Amul et of Li fe Protecti on
4 Amulet of Proof Against Detection and Location
5 Amulet of Psionic Interference
6 Amul et Versus Undead

7 Beads of Force
8 Brooch of Obsi di an Shatteri ng
9 Brooch of Shi el di ng
10 Gem of Brightness
11 Gem of Insi ght
12 Gem of Seeing
13 Jewel of Attacks
14 Jewel of Flawlessness
15 Medallion of ESP
16 Medal l i on of Thought Proj ecti on
17 Neckl ace of Adaptati on
18 Necklace of Missiles
19 Necless of Prayer Beads (Priest)
2 0 DM s Choi ce
Per special bead
Item found in Age of Heroes sourcebook.
XP Value
1, 000
5, 000
4, 000
5, 000
200/ bi t di e
200 each
2, 000
1, 000
2, 000
3, 000
2, 000
`
`
2, 000
`
1, 000
100/hit die
500
`
I23
Subtable B (4-6)
1d20 I tem XP Value
1 Neckl ace of Strangul ati on
2 Obsi di an Neckl ace 2, 500

3 Pearl of Power (Wizard) 200/ l evel
4 Pearl of Wisdom
(Priest) 500
5 Periapt of Foul Rotting
6 Periapt of Health 1, 000

7 Periapt of Proof Against Poison 1, 500
8 Periapt of Wound Closure 1, 000
9 Phylactery of Faithfulness (Priest) 1, 000
10 Phylactery of Long Years (Priest) 3, 000
11 Phyl actery of Monstrous Attenti on
(Priest)
12 Scarab of Death
13 Scarab of Enraging Enemies 1, 000

14 Scarab of Insanity 1, 500
15 Scarab of Protection 2, 500
16 Scarab Versus Golems
17 Si l ver Neckl ace 500

18 Talisman of Contact 500/ bonus
19 Talisman of Psionic Storage 1, 500
2 0 DM s Choi ce
On Athas, pearls are smooth silicate stones found only in deep caves near dipping water, not in oysters
See description
TA8L E I I : MI S CE L L ANE CUS
1d20 Roll I tem
1 Cl oak of Di spl acement
2 Cloak of Energy Protection
3 Cloak of Poisonousness
4- 6 Cl oak of Protecti on
7 Deat h Robe
8 Fol di ng Cl oak
9- 10 Memor y Cl oak
11 Robe of the Beast
12 Robe of Bl endi ng
13 Robe of Eyes (Wizard)
14
15
16
17
18-19
20
Robe of Powerlessness
Robe of Scintillating Colors (Priest, Wizard)
Robe of Stars (Wizard)
Robe of Vermin (Wizard)
Sun Cl oak
DM s Choi ce
XP Value
3, 000
3, 000
1000/ pl us
500
4, 500
2, 500
1, 000
3, 500
4, 500
2, 750
4,000
1,500
TA8LE I2: MISCELLANECUS ITEMS: 8CCTS. 8RACERS. CLCVES

I tem
Boots of Danci ng
Boots of Equi l i bri um
Boots of Levitation
Boots of Speed
Boots of Striding and Springing
Boots of Varied Tracks
7
Boot s, Wi nged
Bracers of Archery (Warrior)
Bracers of Defense
Bracers of Defenselessness
Gauntl ets of Dexteri ty
1
2
3
4
1d20 Roll
5
6
8
9- 10
11
12
1,500
2,000
2,500
2,500
1,500
2,000
1,000
500
XP Value
1, 000
I24
13 Gauntl ets of Fumbl i ng
14 Gauntl ets of Swi mmi ng and Cl i mbi ng
(Priest, Rogue, Warrior)

15 Gauntlets of War
16 Gloves of Decay
17 Gloves of Missile Snaring
18 Slippers of Spider Climbing
19 Unmovabl e Boot s
2 0 DM s Choi ce
Per AC of protection less than 10.
Swimming is through silt, not water.
TA8LE I3: MISCELLANECUS ITEMS: CIRDLES. HATS. HELMS
1d20 Roll I tem
1-2 Crown of Lashi ng
3 Dr eamband
4 Gi rdl e of Femi ni ni ty/Mascul i ni ty
5- 6 Girdle of Giant Strength
(Priest, Roge, Warrior)

7-9 Gi rdl e of Many Pouches
10 Hat of Disguise
11 Hat of Stupi di ty
12 Hel m of Bri l l i ance
13- 14 Hel m of Comprehendi ng Languages
and Readi ng Magi c
15- 17 Hel m of I r on Wi l l
18 Hel m of Opposi te Al i gnment
19 Hel m of Tel epathy
2 0 DM s Choi ce
90% chance Str 23, 10% chance Str 24.
8ACS. 8CTTLES. PCUCHES. CCNTAINERS
1d20 I tem
1 Alchemy Jug, Athasian
2-3 Bag of Beans
4 Bag of Creation
5 Bag of Devouri ng
6 Bag of Faces
7- 10 Bag of Hol di ng
11 Bag of Impressions
12 Bag of Transmuting
13 Bag of Tricks
14-15 Di mensi onal Pocket
16 Eversmoki ng Bottl e
17 Flask of Curses
18 Portabl e Hol e
19 Pouch of Accessibility
2 0 DM s Choi ce
1, 000
3, 000
1, 500
1, 000
500
XP Value
3, 000
2, 000
2, 000
1, 000
1, 000
2, 500
1, 000
2, 500
3, 000
XP Value
3, 000
1, 000
1, 500
750
5, 000
600
2, 500
3, 000
5, 000
1, 500
I25
CANDLES. DUSTS. CINTMENTS. INCENSE. AND STCNES
HCUSEHCLD ITEMS AND TCCLS
TA8LE I7: MISCELLANECUS ITEMS: MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS
1d20 Roll
1
2
3
4
5
6- 7
8
9
1d20
1
2
3
4
5
6
7- 8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
2 0
I tem
Candl e of Rej uvenati on
Chi t i n Oi nt ment
Dust of Appearance
Dust of Di sappearance
Dust of Illusion
Dust of Psi oni c Invi si bi l i ty
Dust of Tracelessness
Dust of Sense Depravation
Dust of Sneezing and Choking
Enhancement St one
Incense of Mediation (Priest)
Incense of Obsession (Priest)
loun Stones
Philosophers Stone
Stone of Control l i ng
Earth Elementals (Priest)
Stone of Earth Passage
Stone of Good Luck (Luckstone)
Stone of Weight (Loadstone)
DM s Choi ce
1d20 Roll I tem
1 Aur a Mi r r or
2 Brazi er of Commandi ng
Fire Elementals (Priest)
3 Brazier of Sleep Smoke (Priest)
4 Carpet Anchor
5 Maul of Power
6 Mi rror of Cl ai rvoyance
7 Mirror of Life Trapping (Wizard)
8 Mi rror of Mental Prowess
9 Mi rror of Opposi ti on
10-11 Needl e of Knowi ng
12-13 Rope of Cl i mbi ng
14 Rope of Constri cti on
15- 16 Rope of Entangl ement
17 Rug of Smothering
18 Rug of Welcome (Wizard)
19 Spade of Colossal Excavation
(Warri or)
2 0 DM s Choi ce
XP Value
750
500
1, 000
2, 000
1, 000
750
500
1, 500
50015 PSPS
5 0 0
300/ st one
1, 000
1, 500
2, 000
3, 000
XP Value
5 0 0
4, 000
750
2, 500
1, 500
2, 500
5, 000
750
1, 000
1, 500
6, 500
1, 1000
I tem
Chi me of Interrupti on
Chi me of Openi ng
Chi me of Hunger
Drums of Deafeni ng
Drums of Panic
Fire Flute
Harp of Charmi ng
Harp of Di scord
XP Value
2, 000
3, 500
6, 500
1, 000
5, 000
I26
10 Horn of Blasting 1, 000
11 Horn of Cl ai raudi ence 7 5 0
12 Horn of Col l apsi ng 1, 500
13 Lyre of Building 5, 000
14 Lyre of Silence 1, 000
15 Pi pes of Haunti ng 4 0 0
16 Pipes of Pain
17 Pipes of Sounding 1, 000

18- 19 Spirit Pipes 1, 500
2 0 DM s Choi ce
TA8LE I8: MISCELLANECUS ITEMS: THE VEIRD STUFF

1 Bowl of Commandi ng Water
Elementals (Priest) 6, 500
2 Bowl of Watery Death (Priest)
3 Censer of Control l i ng
Air Elementals (Priest) 4, 000
4 Censer of Summoni ng Hosti l e
Air Elementals (Priest)
5 Crystal Ball (Wizard) 1, 000

6 Cube of Energy Contai nment 2, 500
7 Cube of Force 3, 000
8 Erdl u Canteen 600
9 Eyes of Charming (Wizard) 4, 000
10 Eyes of Petrification
11 Eyes of the Eagle 3, 500

12 Lens of Detection 2 5 0
13 Saddle of Desert Travel 500
14 Si l t Ski ff 7, 000
15 Sheet of Smallness 1, 500
16 Sphere of Anni hi l ati on 4, 000
17 Talisman of the Sphere
1, 000
18 Wi nd Fan 500
19 Wings of Flying 750
2 0 DM s Choi ce
The Talisman of the Sphere is known as the Talisman of Zagy in other worlds, such as Toril or Oerth.
TA8LE I9: ARMCR AND SHIELDS
1d20 roll Armor type Base AC
1-6 Leather 8
7- 8 Studded Leather 7
9- 10 Ri ng Mai l 7
11-12 Hi de 6
13- 14 Scal e Mai l 6
15- 16 Br i gandi ne 6
17- 18 Shi el d +1
19 Met al
2 0 DM s Choi ce
See DARK SUN Campaign Setting (#2438).

I27
TA8LE I9A: ARMCR CLASS AD1USTMENTS
1d20 roll AC Adjustment XP Value
1-2 -1
3- 10 0
11- 14 +1 500
15- 17 +2 1, 000
18- 19 +3 1, 500
2 0 + 4 2, 000
75% of these armors are -1 due to poor quality and workmanship.
TA8LE 20: VEAPCNS
Subtable A (1-2) Subtable B (3-6)
1d20 roll Weapon 1d20 roll Weapon
1 Arrow
1 Al hul ak
2 Ax e 2-3 Bards Friend
3 Battle Axe 4 Cahul aks
4 Bolt, crossbow
5 Carri kal
5 Gyt hka 6 Crusher
6 Bullet, sling
7 Dat chi cl ub
7-9 Dagger 8 Dragon s paw
10 Chat kcha 9 Forearm axe
11 Quabone 10-11 Gouge
12-13 Spear 12 Lotul i s
14-15 Sword
13 Master s whi p
16 Wri st Razor 14 Puchi k
17 I mpal er 15- 16 Singing Sticks
18 Kni f e 17 Tortoi se bl ade
19 War hammer 18 Wei ght ed pi ke
2 0 DM s Choi ce 19 Wi dow s kni f e
2 0 DM s Choi ce
Ammo in quatlties of 2d6, 3d6, or 4d6
Includes long, short, two-handed, and bastard sword
TA8LE 2IA VEAPCN MATERIALS
1d20 roll Material Cost Weight Damage Hit Probability
1-3 Met al 100% 100%

4- 8 Bone 3 0 % 5 0 % - 1 - 1
9-12 Stone 5 0 % 7 5 % - 1 - 2
13- 16 Obsi di an 5 0 % 7 5 % - 1 - 2
17- 20 Wood 1 0 % 5 0 % - 2 - 3
TA8LE 2I8 ATTACK RCLL AD1USTMENT
1d20 roll Sword Adj. XP Value Other Wpn. Adj. XP Value
1-2 - 1
- 1
3- 10 0
11- 14 +1 4 0 0 +1 500
15- 17 +2 800 +1 500
18- 19 +3 1, 400 +2 1, 000
2 0 + 4 2, 000 +3 2, 000
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Psionic Artifacts of Athas

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DcsIgn: Kevin Melka & Bruce Nesmith

, the Psi onatri x was supposedl y

See DARK SUN Campaign Setting (#2438)

5 Provide double attacks per round.

See DARK SUN Campaign Setting (#2438)

See Defilers and Preservers (#2445)

7 Cast flame arrow (3/day).

See Dragon Kings (#2408)

14 Cast watchfire (3/day).

15 Cast find traps (1/day).

See DARK SUN Campaign Setting (#2438)

See Earth, Air, Fire, and Water (#2422)

2 Cast augury (3/day).

5 Cast true seeing (1/day).

10 Cast ESP by touch (3/day).

1 6 Cast clues of ash (3/day).

17 Cast black cairn by touch (3/day).

18 Cast personal reading upon a creature by touch with no knowledge of

19 Cast read magic by touching the artifact to written material (3/day).

See Tome of Magic (#2121)

See Earth, Air, fire, and Water (#2422)

3 Cast cl oudki l l (1/day).

7 Have feather fall constantly in effect while the artifact is in hand.

10 Cast gust of wind (5/day).

15 Cast wind walk (1/day).

See Tome of Magic (#2121)

See Dragon Kings (#2408)

See Earth, Air, Fire, and Water (#2422)

Imbues with the power eliminate tracks, as an earth cleric (3/day).

Cast flesh to stone by touch (1/day).

Cast stone shape (3/day).

Cast stoneskin (1/day).

See Dragon Kings (#2408)

See Earth, Air, Fire, and Water (#2422)

Cast flame strike (1/day).

Can ignore the presence of fire as a 5th level cleric of fire.

Cast light (3/day).

Cast create water (1/day).

Cast curse of the choking sands by touch (3/day).

Cast conjure lesser water elemental (1/day).

Cast circle of life (3/day).

Can ignore the presence of water as a 5th level cleric of water.

Render any small body of water into a reflecting pool (1/day).

Cast create oasis (1/month).

Cast wall of ice (1/day).

2 0 Cast suggestion (3/day).

Cast magic jar (1/day).

Cast vampiric youthfulness (1/month).

Cause ghoul-like paralysis by touch (3/day)

Cast prismatic spray (1/day).

Cast wall of force (1/day).

See DARK SUN Campaign Setting (#2438)

See Tome of Magic (#2121)

See Defilers and Preservers (#2445)

Cast audible glamer (7/day).

Cast call upon faith (5/day).

Cast altruism (5/day).

Cast chill touch (5/day).

42- 43 Cast flame arrow (5/day).