Eclipse Bow

From: Shadowbloods

Stats:

• Level: Tier 1
• Stats: +1 bonus to attack rolls
• Skills: None
• Cost: 400 gold pieces
• Tags: Ranged Weapon, Two-Handed, Piercing, Shadow, Magic, Ethereal, Precision, Stealth, Dexterity, Silent, Arcane, Midnight, Nocturnal, Darkness, Accuracy, Force, Lunar, Enchanted, Assassin, Twilight, Mystic, Spectral, Elite
• Damage: 1d8 + Dexterity (piercing) + 1d6 force (on critical hits – for any die with max amount)

Lore: The Eclipse Bow is a sleek and ebony longbow crafted from the rare and mystical Shadowwood tree. Legends tell of a sacred grove where these trees grow, nurtured by the essence of shadows and moonlight. The wood is known for its strength, flexibility, and its unique ability to blend with the shadows. The Eclipse Bow embodies the grace and power of its origin, making it a coveted weapon among skilled archers.

Use: The Eclipse Bow is designed for those who excel in ranged combat and seek to harness the power of shadows. It provides a +1 bonus to attack rolls, enhancing the archer’s accuracy when loosing arrows upon their targets. The sleek design and balanced construction of the bow allow for swift and precise shots.

Furthermore, the arrows fired from the Eclipse Bow seem to blur in flight, making them difficult for enemies to dodge. This grants no mechanical bonuses, but it adds to the bow’s reputation and visual impact during combat.

Additionally, the Eclipse Bow possesses a unique enchantment. On critical hits, the bow unleashes an additional 1d6 force damage, representing the bow’s ability to tap into the mystical forces of shadow and moonlight. This extra force damage can be devastating, making critical hits even more impactful.

The craftsmanship required to fashion an Eclipse Bow, along with the scarcity of Shadowwood, contribute to its cost of 400 gold pieces. Its sleek and dark appearance, coupled with its associations with shadow magic and the moon, make it an alluring weapon for those who seek to strike swiftly and relentlessly from a distance.

In the world of Saṃsāra, the Eclipse Bow would be a rare and highly sought-after weapon, primarily found in specialized shops that cater to elite archers, assassins, and those who deal in arcane weaponry. Here are a few types of shops where the Eclipse Bow might be bought and sold, along with the varying costs:

• Shadowblood Enclaves
  • Description: These secretive and hidden shops are run by the Shadowbloods, a mysterious faction known for their mastery of shadow magic and stealth. The enclaves are often located in remote or concealed areas, accessible only to those who know the right passwords or possess the right connections. The shops within these enclaves are dimly lit, with shadowy figures overseeing transactions.
  • Cost: 500 gold pieces.
  • Notes: The Eclipse Bow sold here would be of the highest quality, potentially including minor customizations or additional enchantments tailored to the buyer’s needs. Buyers might also receive advice or training from Shadowblood experts in the art of using the bow.
• Arcane Emporiums
  • Description: These establishments, often found in major cities or within academies of magic, specialize in enchanted items and weapons. The shops are filled with shimmering displays of magical artifacts, and the air hums with latent energy. The shopkeepers are typically knowledgeable mages or alchemists who can explain the intricate enchantments of the items they sell.
  • Cost: 450 gold pieces.
  • Notes: At an Arcane Emporium, the Eclipse Bow might come with a certificate of authenticity, detailing the magical properties and the origin of the Shadowwood used in its crafting. The emporium might also offer additional services, such as enchantment enhancements or custom arrow crafting.
• Elite Fletcheries
  • Description: These specialized archery shops are run by master fletchers who cater to the most skilled and discerning archers. The interiors of these shops are lined with rows of expertly crafted bows, quivers, and arrows, each meticulously designed for precision and power. The shopkeepers are often former or current archers themselves, with a deep understanding of their craft.
  • Cost: 400 gold pieces.
  • Notes: At an elite fletchery, the Eclipse Bow would be displayed prominently, perhaps under glass or within a shadowy alcove. The bow’s sleek design would be emphasized, and customers might be allowed to test the bow in an indoor range before purchasing.
• Black Markets
  • Description: In the underworld of Saṃsāra, where illicit goods and rare items change hands, the Eclipse Bow might be found in the hands of unscrupulous dealers. These black markets are often held in hidden locations, such as abandoned warehouses or deep within labyrinthine alleyways. The atmosphere is tense, with a mixture of desperation and danger as buyers and sellers haggle over forbidden goods.
  • Cost: 350 gold pieces (negotiable).
  • Notes: While cheaper than in other shops, purchasing the Eclipse Bow from a black market comes with risks. The bow might be stolen, or it might come with a curse or hidden flaw. Buyers would need to be wary of the authenticity of the bow and the reputation of the seller.
• Noble Auctions
  • Description: In the grand halls of noble estates or during prestigious auctions in major cities, the Eclipse Bow might be presented as a rare and valuable collector’s item. These auctions attract the wealthiest and most powerful individuals, who bid on items of exceptional quality and rarity. The setting is opulent, with attendants and auctioneers dressed in fine attire, and the atmosphere is one of sophistication and competition.
  • Cost: 600 gold pieces (starting bid).
  • Notes: The Eclipse Bow at a noble auction would likely be presented as a masterpiece of craftsmanship, with a history or legend attached to it. The bow might come in a finely crafted case, with documentation of its origins and previous owners. The final price could soar well above the starting bid, depending on the bidders’ interest.

The Eclipse Bow, with its unique properties tied to shadows and moonlight, offers various roleplaying opportunities for defense and offense across different environments in the world of Saṃsāra. The bow’s ability to blend into the shadows and its forceful impact on critical hits make it a versatile weapon for characters who value stealth, precision, and the arcane. Here’s how it might be used in different environments:

• Dense Forests and Jungles
• Offense: In thick, shadowy forests or jungles, the Eclipse Bow becomes an invaluable tool for a hunter or ranger. The archer can move silently through the undergrowth, using the natural cover of the trees to remain unseen. The bow’s arrows, which blur in flight, can be loosed from the shadows, striking targets with precision and leaving little chance for them to detect the archer’s position. The force damage on critical hits makes the bow especially effective against large or heavily armored foes, as the archer can aim for weak points with deadly accuracy.
• Defense: For defense, the archer can retreat into the thickest parts of the forest, using the bow’s connection to shadows to stay hidden. The Eclipse Bow’s ability to strike from cover allows the archer to pick off pursuing enemies one by one, forcing them to navigate the difficult terrain while under constant threat. The archer can set traps or use the environment to funnel enemies into kill zones where the bow’s power can be maximized.
• Urban Environments
• Offense: In the narrow alleys and dark corners of a city, the Eclipse Bow is a perfect weapon for an assassin or rogue. The bow’s sleek design allows it to be easily concealed under a cloak, and its arrows can be fired from the shadows of a rooftop or a hidden vantage point. The force damage on critical hits makes it effective for taking out high-value targets with a single, well-placed shot. The bow’s reputation for accuracy and stealth would make it a feared weapon in the underworld, with the archer able to strike and disappear before anyone realizes what has happened.
• Defense: When on the run or defending against pursuers, the archer can use the bow to create chaos in the narrow streets, firing arrows that ricochet off walls or pass through small openings to hit their mark. The archer can move through the city’s shadowy backstreets, using the Eclipse Bow’s affinity with darkness to remain undetected. In a defensive stance, the archer might take up a position in a shadowed alcove, ready to defend against any who would dare approach.
• Open Plains and Deserts
• Offense: In wide-open spaces like plains or deserts, the Eclipse Bow allows an archer to engage enemies from a great distance. The bow’s range and precision mean that even in environments with little cover, the archer can strike before enemies can close the gap. The force damage on critical hits makes the bow particularly effective against fast-moving or evasive targets, as the additional impact can knock them off balance or even down them outright. The archer might use the environment to their advantage, firing from the edge of a mirage or a low dune to catch enemies off guard.
• Defense: Defensively, the archer can use the openness of the terrain to their advantage, keeping enemies at bay with long-range shots. The archer might retreat towards rocky outcroppings or patches of tall grass, where they can use the bow’s shadowy properties to remain hidden and pick off pursuers. In a last-stand scenario, the archer could position themselves atop a hill or dune, using the high ground to maximize the bow’s range and accuracy.
• Mountainous Terrain
• Offense: In the rugged mountains, the Eclipse Bow shines as a tool for ambushes. The archer can use the high ground to rain arrows down on enemies below, making use of the natural cover provided by rocks and cliffs. The force damage on critical hits can cause enemies to stumble or even fall from precarious positions, making the bow a deadly weapon in this environment. The archer can use the bow’s affinity with shadows to blend into the rocky terrain, making it nearly impossible for enemies to spot them before it’s too late.
• Defense: Defensively, the archer can retreat to narrow mountain passes or hidden caves, using the bow’s long range to keep enemies at a distance. The Eclipse Bow’s ability to strike from concealment is especially valuable in the mountains, where the archer can hide among the rocks and use the natural acoustics to confuse and disorient their enemies. The bow’s shadowy nature also allows the archer to remain hidden during nightfall, making it difficult for enemies to launch a successful assault.
• Underwater or Coastal Areas
• Offense: Near coastal areas, where fog and mist are common, the Eclipse Bow can be used to great effect. The archer can fire from the cover of mist or twilight, making it difficult for enemies to trace the source of the attack. The bow’s force damage on critical hits can be especially devastating against creatures or enemies attempting to board ships or cross treacherous terrain. The archer might use the ebb and flow of the tide to move between hiding spots, firing arrows that seem to materialize from the fog.
• Defense: In defensive scenarios, such as guarding a coastal village or ship, the archer can use the Eclipse Bow to fend off attackers from the shore or ship’s deck. The bow’s ability to blend with shadows can be used to hide among rocky outcrops or ship rigging, making it difficult for enemies to pinpoint the archer’s location. The archer can use the natural environment—whether the rise and fall of waves or the shifting of sands—to maintain a defensive advantage.
• Dungeons and Caves
• Offense: In the dark, confined spaces of dungeons and caves, the Eclipse Bow becomes a weapon of terror. The archer can strike from the shadows, with arrows seeming to appear from nowhere to pierce their enemies. The force damage on critical hits can be devastating in close quarters, where the impact might cause enemies to stumble into traps or over ledges. The archer can use the bow to systematically eliminate threats, one by one, without ever revealing their position.
• Defense: For defense, the archer can retreat deeper into the dungeon or cave, using the bow to cover their escape or defend a strategic position. The Eclipse Bow’s shadowy properties are especially useful in these environments, where darkness is plentiful and the echoes of footsteps can mask the sound of drawing a bowstring. The archer might use the bow to create confusion among enemies, making them believe they are surrounded or that the archer is somewhere they are not.

Perception of Activation:

• Sight
  • Perceived: Upon activation, the Eclipse Bow emits a faint, dark glow that spreads along the limbs of the bow, creating the illusion that the weapon is absorbing light from the surroundings. The bowstring shimmers with an ethereal, shadowy hue, and the arrows appear to blur as they are drawn, leaving a faint trail of darkness in their wake.
  • Description: The visual effect is mesmerizing, as if the bow is channeling the essence of shadows and moonlight directly into its arrows. The light around the bow seems to dim slightly, creating a contrast that makes the bow appear even darker and more ominous.
  • Positives: The visual effects are intimidating to enemies, potentially causing hesitation or fear. The user feels empowered by the visual representation of the bow’s mystical power.
  • Negatives: The faint glow and darkening effect may draw unwanted attention in certain environments, making it harder to remain completely hidden.
• Sound
  • Perceived: A soft, whispering hum emanates from the bow when activated, resembling the rustle of leaves in a shadowy forest or the distant echo of wind through a cave. The sound is barely audible, more felt than heard, but it resonates with a deep, arcane power.
  • Description: The sound evokes a sense of mystery and foreboding, as if the bow is communicating with the shadows themselves. It enhances the sense of connection between the user and the bow, reinforcing the bond between the archer and their weapon.
  • Positives: The subtle sound can enhance the user’s focus, helping to steady their aim and calm their nerves. It may also intimidate foes who sense the unnatural presence of the bow.
  • Negatives: In extremely quiet environments, the sound could alert nearby creatures or enemies to the archer’s presence, though it is subtle enough to be missed by most.
• Touch
  • Perceived: The bow feels cool to the touch, with a slight tingling sensation that runs through the user’s fingers when they draw the string. This sensation intensifies as the bow is activated, spreading up the arms and into the body, as if the bow is channeling raw energy through the user.
  • Description: The cool, tingling sensation is both invigorating and unsettling, giving the user a sense of heightened awareness and physical prowess. The bow feels almost alive, responding to the user’s touch with a subtle vibration that seems to sync with their heartbeat.
  • Positives: The physical sensations can enhance the user’s reflexes and awareness, making them feel more connected to the weapon and their surroundings. This heightened state can improve reaction time and precision in combat.
  • Negatives: The intensity of the sensation might become overwhelming during prolonged use, leading to fatigue or distraction. The constant tingling could also be uncomfortable for those unaccustomed to the bow’s energy.
• Smell
  • Perceived: A faint, earthy scent reminiscent of damp forest soil and fallen leaves wafts from the bow when activated. This scent is mixed with a subtle hint of ozone, as if a storm is brewing in the distance.
  • Description: The scent evokes the atmosphere of a shadowy, primeval forest, full of hidden dangers and ancient power. It serves as a reminder of the bow’s connection to the natural world and its origins in the mystical Shadowwood tree.
  • Positives: The scent can sharpen the user’s focus, grounding them in the present moment and heightening their awareness of their environment. It may also serve as a comforting reminder of the bow’s power and reliability.
  • Negatives: The scent, though faint, could be detected by creatures with keen senses of smell, potentially giving away the user’s position. In certain environments, the smell might seem out of place and raise suspicion.
• Taste
  • Perceived: If the user touches their lips after handling the bow, they might notice a faint, metallic taste similar to iron, mixed with a hint of bitter herbs.
  • Description: The taste is subtle and fleeting, but it lingers as a reminder of the bow’s mystical nature. It is neither pleasant nor unpleasant, simply a byproduct of the bow’s activation.
  • Positives: The taste serves as an additional sensory cue that the bow is fully activated and ready for use. It can be used as a signal to the user that the weapon’s power is at its peak.
  • Negatives: The taste, though mild, could be distracting or unpleasant for some users, especially if it persists for too long.
• Extrasensory Perception (ESP)
  • Shadow Awareness
    • Perceived: The user gains an enhanced awareness of shadows and darkness within a 60-foot radius, sensing the presence and movement of creatures within these areas, even if they are hidden or invisible.
    • Description: This heightened awareness allows the user to detect threats that would otherwise go unnoticed, giving them an advantage in environments where shadows dominate. It feels as if the shadows themselves are whispering secrets to the user, revealing hidden dangers.
    • Positives: The user can anticipate attacks from hidden enemies and navigate through dark environments with ease, making them more effective in combat and stealth.
    • Negatives: The constant influx of shadowy information can be overwhelming, leading to sensory overload or confusion in areas with many moving shadows or multiple sources of darkness.
  • Lunar Resonance
    • Perceived: The user feels a subtle connection to the phases of the moon, gaining a sense of the current lunar phase and its influence on the bow’s power. This connection can also provide insights into the passage of time, even in environments where the sky is not visible.
    • Description: The lunar resonance enhances the bow’s effectiveness during certain phases of the moon, particularly during the new moon or eclipse, when the bow’s power is at its peak. The user feels a deep, instinctual connection to these celestial events, as if they are drawing strength from the moon itself.
    • Positives: During favorable lunar phases, the bow’s power increases, allowing for more powerful attacks and greater accuracy. The user can also use this connection to track time and plan strategies based on the moon’s influence.
    • Negatives: During unfavorable lunar phases, the bow’s power may wane slightly, making it less effective. The user may also feel disoriented or disconnected during these times, as if their bond with the weapon is weakened.

Crafting Recipe: Eclipse Bow

• Materials Needed
  • Shadowwood Log (x1)
    • Sourced from the rare Shadowwood tree, which grows in dark, enchanted forests.
  • Moonstone Shards (x4)
    • Small fragments of Moonstone, imbued with lunar energy, harvested during a new moon.
  • Silken Spider Thread (x3 feet)
    • Gathered from the webs of Moonshadow Spiders, known for their ethereal silk.
  • Dark Leather Strips (x2)
    • Leather tanned using shadow magic, sourced from creatures native to the Shadow Realms.
  • Enchanted Arrowhead (for testing) (x1)
    • A single arrowhead infused with force magic, to test the bow’s critical damage capability.
• Tools Required
  • Arcane Woodworking Kit
    • Includes enchanted chisels, saws, and carving tools designed for working with magical woods.
  • Lunar Forge
    • A forge that captures lunar energy, necessary for infusing the bow with moonlight essence.
  • Silk Spinner’s Loom
    • A specialized loom for weaving the silken spider thread into the bowstring.
  • Leatherworking Tools
    • Basic tools for cutting, shaping, and securing the leather grip.
  • Enchantment Circle
    • A magic circle inscribed with runes for binding the bow’s enchantments.
• Skill Requirements
  • Master Woodworking (Level 7+)
    • Expertise in crafting with rare and magical woods, required to shape the Shadowwood.
  • Arcane Enchantment (Level 5+)
    • Proficiency in applying and binding magical properties to physical items.
  • Lunar Rituals (Level 4+)
    • Knowledge of rituals and incantations associated with lunar phases and moonstone.
  • Leatherworking (Level 3+)
    • Basic proficiency in crafting and applying leather to ensure a firm and comfortable grip.
  • Fletching (Level 4+)
    • Competence in testing and adjusting the bow’s string and arrow trajectory.
• Crafting Steps
  • Harvesting the Shadowwood
    • Carefully fell a Shadowwood tree during the twilight hours, ensuring the wood retains its dark, mystical properties. Transport the log to your workshop.
  • Shaping the Bow
    • Use the Arcane Woodworking Kit to carve the log into a sleek, ebony longbow. Focus on maintaining the wood’s natural curves while inscribing moon phases and shadow tendrils along the bow’s limbs. This step requires precision and patience to avoid damaging the delicate Shadowwood.
  • Infusing the Bow with Lunar Energy
    • Place the carved bow into the Lunar Forge. Arrange the Moonstone Shards around the bow and activate the forge during a new moon. Chant the necessary lunar rituals, infusing the bow with the essence of moonlight and shadows. This process takes several hours and must be done uninterrupted.
  • Crafting the Bowstring
    • Use the Silk Spinner’s Loom to weave the Silken Spider Thread into a strong yet ethereal bowstring. Ensure that the thread is tightly woven, and its magical properties are retained throughout the process.
  • Attaching the Bowstring
    • Carefully attach the woven bowstring to the bow, making sure it is taut and balanced. The string should shimmer faintly with a dark glow when properly secured.
  • Applying the Leather Grip
    • Cut the Dark Leather Strips to size and wrap them around the bow’s grip area. Use Leatherworking Tools to secure the strips, ensuring the grip is comfortable and doesn’t interfere with the bow’s balance.
  • Binding the Enchantment
    • Place the bow within the Enchantment Circle. Using your knowledge of Arcane Enchantment, bind the bow’s unique properties: the +1 bonus to attack rolls and the ability to deal 1d6 force damage on critical hits. Recite the appropriate incantations while channeling magic into the bow.
  • Final Testing and Adjustment
    • Use the Enchanted Arrowhead to test the bow’s accuracy and force damage. Adjust the tension of the bowstring and balance the bow as needed to ensure optimal performance. This step may require multiple tests and refinements.
  • Completion and Blessing
    • Once satisfied with the bow’s performance, perform a final blessing under the new moon, ensuring the Eclipse Bow is fully attuned to its shadowy and lunar origins. The bow is now ready for use or sale.

Estimated Crafting Time: 5-7 Days, depending on the availability of materials and the lunar phase.

Success Rate: High with the required skills and tools. Lesser-skilled crafters may encounter difficulties, particularly in the enchantment and infusion steps.

Tale of the Moon’s Shadow Bow

In the time of before times, when the moon was nearer to earth and the sky’s light danced with shadows, there was a tree, dark and tall, named Shadowwood. This tree was not like other trees, for it did grow not in the sun’s light, but in the moon’s dark. This tree whispered secrets of the night and held within its bark the strength of shadows.

A hero, whose name was lost to the winds, came from lands far beyond the known. He wandered the earth in search of the bow that none could see, for it was told that such a bow could strike true in the deepest dark, where the light of the moon touched not. This hero, strong and wise, knew the way to seek what was unseen. He journeyed to the forest where the night never slept, where the Shadowwood tree grew.

The hero came to the tree under the dark moon, when the sky held no light. He did speak the words of ancient sound, a language that no man now knows, and the tree did bend to him. With hands like the craftsman of old, he took from the tree the wood that bore no light. This wood, he shaped with tools forged in the fires of the first forge, and he bound it with threads spun by the spiders that walk in the dark corners of the world.

But the bow, though strong and true, was yet silent. It spoke not the language of power. The hero then took stones from the bed of the river that flows under the earth, where the moon’s light does not reach, and these stones he placed in the heart of the bow. He called upon the moon’s shadow, that which is seen when light turns away, and the bow drank deeply of this shadow.

Now the bow was complete, and it was named the Moon’s Shadow Bow. The hero carried it with him, and when he did pull the string, the arrows flew like whispers, silent and unseen. In battle, it was said that no shield could turn away the arrow that flew from the Moon’s Shadow Bow, for it was as the shadow of the night, slipping through all defenses.

But the bow, born of darkness, was not a tool of light. In the hands of the hero, it brought victory and sorrow, for the shadow did cling to him, and he walked no more in the light. His name faded, as did his memory, until only the bow remained, hidden in the shadow where it was born.

Moral of the Story: The power of the shadows is great, but those who embrace the darkness must walk carefully, for the light may not follow them back.

Suggested conversions to other systems:

Call of Cthulhu (7th Edition)

Eclipse Bow

• Type: Magic Item (Artifact)
• Description: The Eclipse Bow is a rare artifact crafted from Shadowwood, a material imbued with eldritch energies. The bow’s origins are shrouded in mystery, said to be connected to ancient lunar rites.
• Skill: Archery (75% required to wield effectively)
• Damage: 1d8 + Dexterity bonus
• Range: 100 yards
• Special:
  • Shadow Strike: On a successful attack roll that is an extreme success (a roll of 01-05 on a d100), the bow deals an additional 1d6 points of Force damage. This damage is not mitigated by mundane armor.
  • Lunar Influence: During the night of a new moon, the wielder gains a bonus die (roll an additional d10 and choose the higher result) on all attack rolls.
  • Sanity Loss: 0/1d4 if the wielder becomes aware of the bow’s connection to dark, ancient powers.

Blades in the Dark

Eclipse Bow

• Type: Fine Ranged Weapon (Bow)
• Load: 2
• Description: A sleek, ebony longbow crafted from a rare, shadow-infused wood. It is silent and deadly, ideal for assassinations and shadowy operations.
• Range: Standard for a bow (Long Range)
• Tags: Fine, Quiet, Shadowbound
• Special:
  • Shadowshot: When using the Eclipse Bow in a desperate action, gain +1d to your roll. On a critical success, the attack deals an additional 1 harm and the target is momentarily disoriented, giving you a window to escape or hide.
  • Ethereal String: The bowstring is nearly invisible, making it difficult for enemies to anticipate your shots. When in dim or dark conditions, you gain potency on attacks made with the bow.

Dungeons & Dragons (5th Edition)

Eclipse Bow

• Weapon (longbow), rare (requires attunement)
• Damage: 1d8 piercing + Dexterity modifier
• Range: 150/600 feet
• Properties: Ammunition, Heavy, Two-Handed
• Special:
  • Shadow Strike: On a critical hit, the Eclipse Bow deals an additional 1d6 force damage.
  • Lunar Resonance: While attuned to the bow, you gain a +1 bonus to attack rolls. During the night of a new moon, the bonus increases to +2.
  • Cloak of Shadows: Once per short rest, as a bonus action, you can wrap yourself in shadows, granting advantage on your next attack roll made with the bow. This effect lasts until the end of your next turn.
  • Attunement: Requires the attunement of a character with proficiency in longbows.

Knave

Eclipse Bow

• Type: Ranged Weapon
• Damage: d8 (piercing) + 1d6 (force on critical hits)
• Range: Long
• Description: This bow is crafted from dark, shadowy wood, capable of firing arrows that blur through the air. It is said to draw power from the phases of the moon.
• Special:
  • Shadow Infusion: When the moon is not visible (new moon, deep night, or underground), the bow grants a +1 to attack rolls.
  • Critical Force: On a natural 20 (critical hit), the bow deals an additional 1d6 force damage.
  • Shadow’s Embrace: Once per day, you may invoke the power of shadows, allowing you to take an extra action this turn. This action must involve using the Eclipse Bow.

Fate Core

Eclipse Bow

• Aspect: “Weapon of Shadows and Moonlight”
• Type: Unique Item
• Description: A finely crafted longbow made from Shadowwood, a rare material that is attuned to the power of the night and the moon. It is said to draw upon ancient lunar energies.
• Function:
  • Shadow Strike: Once per session, the wielder can invoke the Eclipse Bow’s Aspect to gain +2 on an attack roll using the bow or to create a shadowy advantage on the battlefield, such as “Blinded by Shadows” or “Unseen Shot.”
  • Moon’s Blessing: During the night of a new moon, the Eclipse Bow grants an additional +2 to attack rolls made with it.
  • Complication: The bow’s connection to shadows may cause complications. Once per session, the GM can compel the Eclipse Bow’s Aspect to create a situation where shadows conceal an enemy or cause a misfire.

Numenera & Cypher System

Eclipse Bow

• Level: 5
• Type: Artifact (Weapon)
• Effect: This longbow, crafted from a rare darkwood, is attuned to shadows and lunar energy. It deals 6 points of damage on a successful hit.
• Depletion: 1 in 1d20
• Special Abilities:
  • Shadowstrike: When attacking from within shadows or in darkness, add +1 to the attack roll. On a natural 19 or 20, the attack deals an additional 3 points of damage as force damage.
  • Lunar Harmony: Once per day, when the moon is visible or during the night of a new moon, the user can take an extra action with the bow, which can only be used for another attack.
  • Might Cost: 1 point of Might to activate Lunar Harmony.

Pathfinder (2nd Edition)

Eclipse Bow

• Item Level: 8
• Price: 3,600 gp
• Type: Magical Ranged Weapon (Longbow)
• Damage: 1d8 piercing + Dexterity modifier
• Range: 100 feet
• Traits: Uncommon, Magical, Evocation
• Special:
  • Shadowstrike: On a critical hit, the bow deals an additional 1d6 force damage.
  • Moon’s Favor: The bow provides a +1 item bonus to attack rolls. During the night of a new moon, this bonus increases to +2.
  • Cloak of Shadows: Once per day, you can use the bow to cast the spell “Invisibility” on yourself as a 2nd-level spell.
  • Craft Requirements: The creator must be able to cast 4th-level evocation spells and have access to a Shadowwood tree or similar magical material.

Savage Worlds (Adventure Edition)

Eclipse Bow

• Type: Magical Ranged Weapon (Longbow)
• Damage: 2d6+1 (Piercing) + 1d6 (Force on a raise)
• Range: 12/24/48
• Weight: 5 lbs
• Special Abilities:
  • Shadowstrike: On a raise (rolling 4 or more above the target number), the bow deals an additional 1d6 force damage. This force damage ignores armor.
  • Lunar Blessing: During the night of a new moon, the Eclipse Bow grants the wielder a +1 to Shooting rolls.
  • Silent Shot: When firing an arrow from the Eclipse Bow, the shot is completely silent, making it ideal for stealthy attacks. Enemies must make a Notice roll at -2 to detect where the shot came from.
  • Power Points: If using a system where magical items require power, the bow requires 2 Power Points to activate Lunar Blessing or Silent Shot.

Shadowrun (6th Edition)

Eclipse Bow

• Type: Exotic Weapon (Bow)
• Accuracy: 6
• Damage: Physical, 12P
• AP: -2
• Availability: 12F
• Cost: 15,000¥
• Special:
  • Shadowstrike: The Eclipse Bow’s arrows are imbued with shadowy energy. On a critical hit (4+ net hits), the attack deals an additional 1d6 Force damage. This damage is not affected by armor.
  • Lunar Sync: When used during the night or in areas of low light, the bow gains an additional +1 to Accuracy and an additional +2 dice to the attack roll.
  • Silent Killer: The Eclipse Bow makes no sound when firing, making it ideal for stealth missions. Opponents must make a Perception (Hearing) test with a threshold of 4 to notice the bow’s use.

Starfinder

Eclipse Bow

• Level: 7
• Price: 7,500 credits
• Damage: 2d6 piercing + Dexterity modifier
• Critical: 1d6 Force
• Range: 100 feet
• Capacity: 1 arrow
• Usage: 1/use
• Bulk: 1
• Special:
  • Shadow Infusion: This bow is imbued with shadow energy. On a successful critical hit, the bow deals an additional 1d6 Force damage, which is not mitigated by DR (Damage Reduction).
  • Moonlit Blessing: When used during the night or in dark environments, the wielder gains a +1 enhancement bonus to attack rolls.
  • Ghost Arrow: The Eclipse Bow fires arrows that are difficult to perceive. When firing, enemies must succeed on a Perception check (DC 15) to locate the source of the shot. Failure means they are unaware of the attacker’s position.

Traveller (Mongoose, 2nd Edition)

Eclipse Bow

• Tech Level: 9
• Type: Ranged Weapon (Bow)
• Damage: 3d6
• Range: 100 meters
• Magazine: 1 arrow
• Traits:
  • Shadowstrike: The bow deals an additional 1d6 damage on a critical hit. This extra damage bypasses armor.
  • Lunar Focus: When used at night or in low-light conditions, the bow grants a +1 DM (Dice Modifier) to attack rolls.
  • Silent Shot: The bow makes no noise when firing, imposing a -2 DM penalty on any Recon or Perception checks to detect the shooter’s location.

Warhammer (4th Edition)

Eclipse Bow

• Weapon Type: Longbow (Exotic)
• Group: Ranged
• Damage: 9
• Range: 150 yards
• Encumbrance: 1
• Qualities: Penetrating, Precise, Magical
• Special:
  • Shadowstrike: When rolling a critical hit (by rolling doubles on the attack roll), the bow deals an additional d10 of damage that bypasses armor.
  • Moon’s Grace: During nights of a new moon, or when fighting in darkness, the wielder gains a +10 bonus to BS (Ballistic Skill) tests made with the bow.
  • Whispering Arrow: Arrows fired from the Eclipse Bow make no sound. Enemies attempting to locate the shooter must pass a Difficult (-10) Perception test.