Stormbreaker Axe

From: Luminary Flames

Description: The Stormbreaker Axe is a massive double-headed axe crackling with elemental energy. It is a formidable weapon that harnesses the power of wind and lightning. Each swing of the axe releases a gust of wind and sparks of lightning, inflicting devastating damage upon foes and imbuing the wielder with an aura of electrical power. The axe exudes an aura of raw elemental energy, radiating an imposing presence on the battlefield.

Stats:

• Level: Tier 1
• Tags: Elemental, Thunderstrike, Shockwave, Tempest, Cleave, Command, Fury, Windborne, Arcing Energy
• Cost and Rarity:
  • Rare but may be used at tier 1.
  • (1,500 to 2,500 gold)

Benefits:

• Damage Output: The Stormbreaker Axe deals (2d6 plus tier die) slashing damage to foes upon impact. Its double-headed design and elemental energy enhance the force behind each swing, allowing the wielder to inflict devastating blows upon enemies. The specific damage dealt would depend on the game system’s rules and the character’s strength or relevant modifiers.
• Elemental Damage: (additional 1d6 lightning) The axe’s elemental energy manifests as gusts of wind and sparks of lightning. These elemental effects add additional damage to the target when the axe strikes. The exact damage type and amount would depend on any enhancements or enchantments on the weapon.
• Electrical Aura: (advantage on Intimidation checks while wielding) The Stormbreaker Axe imbues the wielder with an aura of electrical power. This aura crackles with energy, providing a tangible sense of intimidation and awe to both allies and enemies. While wielding the axe, the wielder gains an advantage or bonus on Intimidation checks, or any similar checks related to asserting their presence or inspiring fear.

The Stormbreaker Axe is a rare and sought-after weapon due to its formidable nature and elemental abilities. The cost of obtaining such a weapon would be relatively high compared to standard axes or weapons, reflecting its exceptional craftsmanship, enchantments, and the rarity of the materials required for its creation.

The Stormbreaker Axe is a prized possession for warriors who seek to wield devastating power and command the elements. Its combination of raw damage output, elemental effects, and the intimidating electrical aura makes it a fearsome weapon on the battlefield. It is particularly suited for characters who embrace strength and aggression in combat, adding a dynamic and visually impressive element to their fighting style.

In the world of Saṃsāra, the Stormbreaker Axe, a rare and formidable weapon, can be found in a variety of specialized shops and markets catering to warriors, adventurers, and collectors of powerful weapons. The shops that deal in such rare items typically operate in larger cities, strategic fortresses, and hidden enclaves known for crafting or trading exceptional equipment. Below are the types of shops and marketplaces where the Stormbreaker Axe might be bought or sold, along with the potential pricing variations in different regions.

• Elemental Forge of Zaphyra
  • Location: Sky-cities within the Zephyrstone Islands.
  • Shop Description: This is a renowned forge operated by blacksmiths who specialize in elemental-infused weapons. The intense winds and magical storms that batter the floating islands provide the perfect environment for crafting weapons like the Stormbreaker Axe. These master smiths infuse their creations with the raw elemental energy of the skies.
  • Price: 2,500 gold, as this shop’s proximity to elemental forces makes it the highest quality source for such weapons.
  • Additional Cost Factors: Custom engravings and unique elemental modifications could raise the price by another 500 gold, depending on the request.
• Arcanum Arsenal
  • Location: Major magical cities, like those within floating cities or hidden magical sanctuaries.
  • Shop Description: Known for catering to mages, battle-sorcerers, and magical warriors, the Arcanum Arsenal specializes in rare and powerful weapons infused with elemental magic. The shop is run by a consortium of arcanists who have perfected the art of binding magic into metal.
  • Price: 2,000 gold due to the demand from magical users and the specialization in weapons that harness raw elemental energies.
  • Additional Cost Factors: For a few hundred more gold, the axe could be re-enchanted with additional elemental effects or magical enhancements to customize its power.
• Stormcaller’s Guild Hall
  • Location: Coastal or cliffside cities known for their strong connection to storm magic.
  • Shop Description: This guild serves as a marketplace and a gathering spot for storm-wielders, seafaring adventurers, and elemental warriors. Stormbreaker Axes, among other storm-infused gear, are occasionally traded here by warriors who have found them in battle.
  • Price: 2,200 gold, reflecting the axe’s high demand among storm-wielding warriors and seafarers.
  • Additional Cost Factors: Buying the axe from a legendary warrior who wielded it in battle could increase the price due to its history, adding up to 300 gold for a weapon with storied pasts.
• Underground Black Market (Skyfall Enclave)
  • Location: Black markets found in underground or cave-based trading posts beneath the floating islands or deep within the underworld caverns.
  • Shop Description: The Skyfall Enclave operates in the shadows, dealing in stolen or forbidden relics and weapons, including items like the Stormbreaker Axe. The prices are often lower, but the risks involved in acquiring them can be high.
  • Price: 1,500–1,800 gold, depending on the level of desperation or risk involved in obtaining the weapon.
  • Additional Cost Factors: There may be additional bribes required to complete the transaction safely, adding up to 200 gold.
• Hall of Champions
  • Location: Great metropolises housing arenas or in cities with a strong warrior culture.
  • Shop Description: The Hall of Champions is a prestigious arena where only the strongest warriors gather. The shop associated with this arena sells rare, battle-tested gear, including legendary weapons like the Stormbreaker Axe. Only those with proven strength and glory can easily access its inventory.
  • Price: 2,300 gold due to the prestige of the shop and the exclusivity of its clientele.
  • Additional Cost Factors: If bought as a trophy or symbol of rank in the arena, additional ceremonial costs (up to 200 gold) might be added to mark the weapon as a champion’s tool.
• Stormbreaker Artisans’ Market
  • Location: Artisan quarters in sprawling urban markets, particularly in coastal or mountainous cities with a reputation for elemental magic.
  • Shop Description: A specialized artisan guild market that features weapon makers and crafters who occasionally produce rare, enchanted weapons like the Stormbreaker Axe. These markets cater to discerning adventurers looking for unique items created by master craftsmen.
  • Price: 2,100 gold, reflecting the master craftsmanship and unique artistry behind the weapon’s creation.
  • Additional Cost Factors: Commissioning a custom-crafted Stormbreaker Axe to exact specifications could increase the price by up to 500 gold.
• Relic Trader’s Emporium
  • Location: Traveling merchant caravans that visit large cities, ruins, or remote regions.
  • Shop Description: A rare weapon like the Stormbreaker Axe might occasionally be found in traveling emporiums run by relic traders who have collected weapons from fallen warriors, ancient ruins, or other distant lands. This shop has a diverse but inconsistent inventory.
  • Price: 1,800–2,000 gold, depending on the trader’s valuation of the axe and the rarity of finding such a weapon on the open road.
  • Additional Cost Factors: Bargaining with traders might reduce the price slightly, but the availability of other relics could influence pricing by adding value based on the location it was obtained.

These shops, scattered across different regions of Saṃsāra, represent varying levels of accessibility, pricing, and risk for obtaining the Stormbreaker Axe. The weapon is coveted for its power and elemental abilities, making it both a symbol of strength and a tactical advantage on the battlefield. Pricing can range from 1,500 gold in underground markets to 2,500 gold in the most prestigious shops, with additional costs often influenced by the buyer’s specific desires for customization or the weapon’s history.

The Stormbreaker Axe is a versatile and devastating weapon that thrives in both offensive and defensive roles, depending on the environment and the wielder’s strategy. Its elemental properties make it a fearsome tool in various scenarios, whether the wielder is attacking with sheer force or using the axe’s aura and elemental abilities to fend off enemies. Below are examples of how the axe might be roleplayed in different environments for both offense and defense.

• Urban Combat (City Streets, Fortresses)
  • Offense:
    • The Stormbreaker Axe can be wielded to devastating effect in the narrow alleyways or fortified walls of a city. Its double-headed design allows the wielder to cleave through enemies with powerful, sweeping motions, cutting down multiple foes at once in close quarters.
    • The electrical energy from the axe can create panic among enemy ranks, especially in tightly packed formations. A powerful swing that sends lightning arcing between metal armors can cause disarray, leaving enemies vulnerable to follow-up attacks.
    • The wielder might use the wind-enhanced swings to knock down barriers or gates, utilizing the force of the wind to augment their attacks and break through obstacles.
  • Defense:
    • The crackling aura of the Stormbreaker Axe can serve as a deterrent to anyone trying to close the distance in narrow city streets. By standing their ground and unleashing controlled bursts of wind and lightning, the wielder creates a defensive perimeter that is difficult for enemies to penetrate.
    • If besieged, the wielder can channel the electrical energy of the axe to create a dazzling display of sparks, blinding and disorienting attackers as they attempt to approach.
    • The elemental power of wind can also be used to blow away projectiles or create temporary gusts of wind to knock back attackers, buying time to retreat or reposition.
• Wilderness (Forests, Mountains, Open Plains)
  • Offense:
    • In open plains or mountainous regions, the Stormbreaker Axe’s wind manipulation allows the wielder to turn the natural environment to their advantage. Sweeping gusts of wind can scatter lighter enemies or throw debris into the faces of those charging, creating opportunities for counterattacks.
    • The combination of wind and lightning makes this axe ideal for ambushes in forests, where the wielder can unleash a storm of electricity through trees, igniting branches or shocking hidden foes with the weapon’s wide arc.
    • On the offensive, the wielder can also use the axe to take down large creatures or opponents, sending arcs of lightning into beasts or magical creatures sensitive to elemental damage. Its slashing power combined with elemental damage makes it a lethal weapon for hunters or those tracking dangerous monsters.
  • Defense:
    • In the wilderness, the axe’s ability to command elemental forces can protect the wielder from natural hazards or enemy ambushes. For instance, in a forest, the wielder might use a burst of wind to blow back arrows fired from the tree line, keeping attackers at bay.
    • The electrical aura can also be roleplayed as a way to control or ward off aggressive wildlife, intimidating creatures that rely on instinct or fear.
    • Against larger threats, like mounted warriors or beasts, the wielder can leverage the axe’s power to dismount riders or drive back large creatures with electrifying strikes that disrupt their coordination or overwhelm their senses.
• Seafaring (Ships, Coastal Combat, Stormy Waters)
  • Offense:
    • On a ship’s deck, the Stormbreaker Axe is the perfect weapon for commanding the battlefield amidst a chaotic environment. Its ability to harness wind and lightning means the wielder can turn natural storms to their advantage, aligning attacks with thunderous strikes from the sky or riding the momentum of powerful winds.
    • The lightning strikes delivered by the axe can arc across the wet decks, making it deadly for groups of enemies. The wielder can attack one target while the lightning energy jumps to others in proximity, especially dangerous in such a conductive environment.
    • The wind manipulation can be used offensively to alter the course of the ship’s sails or to knock enemies overboard, turning the elements against foes who might otherwise rely on the sea for defense.
  • Defense:
    • In a defensive role, the wielder could use the wind effects of the Stormbreaker Axe to strengthen their ship’s sails during a chase or escape, giving their vessel the speed needed to outrun pirate ships or pursue enemies.
    • The electrical aura, enhanced by the surrounding moisture, could be roleplayed as a field of charged energy that makes it dangerous for enemies to come into close combat, especially in cramped ship environments. Deflecting boarding attempts or holding key positions on deck would be easier with the added intimidation and danger of the storm’s energy.
    • If defending a coastal city, the axe could be used to summon wind and lightning from the sea itself, striking down enemies attempting to land or assault from the shore.
• Dungeon or Cave Combat
  • Offense:
    • In the enclosed, oppressive space of a dungeon or cave, the Stormbreaker Axe can create space for the wielder by blasting enemies backward with wind, or by funneling lightning strikes through the confined corridors, hitting multiple targets in the narrow passageways.
    • Its electrical aura might interfere with traps or mechanisms that rely on metal, making the axe valuable for not only combat but also exploration. The wielder could use it to fry mechanical traps or to sense the presence of enemies using electrical detection.
    • The cave environment amplifies the axe’s booming presence, making every swing echo through the tunnels and instilling fear in enemies hiding in the dark. The weapon’s elemental power might even collapse unstable sections of a cave to trap enemies or open a path.
  • Defense:
    • In a defensive scenario, the wielder could use the wind gusts from the axe to blow out torches, plunging enemies into darkness, while the lightning aura provides faint, flickering light to maintain the wielder’s vision. This puts the enemy at a severe disadvantage.
    • The electrical aura could disrupt or deter creatures that rely on stealth or ambush tactics, creating a charged environment that makes it difficult for enemies to sneak up on the wielder.
    • If the dungeon is structurally weak, the wind and lightning powers could be used to bring down sections of the ceiling, forming a defensive barrier of rubble between the wielder and pursuing enemies.
• Arena or Gladiatorial Combat
  • Offense:
    • In an arena setting, the Stormbreaker Axe would be a showpiece of raw power. The wielder could use the weapon’s elemental energy to strike awe into the crowd, sending gusts of wind swirling around the battlefield and lashing out with bolts of lightning that illuminate the entire arena.
    • The wide swings of the axe can be used to push back multiple foes, especially in matches where the wielder is pitted against multiple opponents or beasts. The combination of raw slashing power and elemental energy makes it perfect for high-stakes combat.
    • The axe’s aura can also be used to intimidate opponents who may be overwhelmed by the crackling energy and sheer presence of the weapon. The wielder’s every move is amplified by the weapon’s aura, making them appear larger-than-life on the battlefield.
  • Defense:
    • The defensive capabilities of the Stormbreaker Axe would shine in one-on-one duels or crowd battles. The wind effects could be used to deflect or slow incoming attacks, while the electrical aura serves to discourage enemies from getting too close.
    • In close quarters, the axe’s wind gusts can push back charging foes, giving the wielder a moment to recover or reset their stance. The axe’s intimidating presence could also give the wielder the upper hand in psychological warfare, causing opponents to hesitate or falter in their attacks.
    • The ability to create a temporary lightning storm around the wielder through clever roleplay could also work as a means of crowd control, keeping multiple attackers at bay or drawing out duels to exhaust opponents.

Across all these environments, the Stormbreaker Axe transforms its wielder into a master of both elemental offense and defense, capable of dominating the battlefield with powerful, devastating strikes or protecting themselves by manipulating the elements in their favor. Its roleplay potential allows for dynamic and creative strategies, leveraging its fearsome reputation and elemental powers to control the flow of battle.

Perception of Activation:

• User’s Perspective:
  • Sight: As the Stormbreaker Axe is activated, the air around the weapon begins to shimmer and distort, as if the atmosphere is bending to the force of the axe’s elemental energy. Bright, electric blue lightning arcs across the axe’s blades, glowing runes flare to life, and a spiraling gust of wind swirls around the axe. The electrical aura around the wielder intensifies, casting flickering shadows and bright flashes of light. The weapon feels like it is pulsing with life and power, crackling with raw energy that demands to be unleashed.
  • Sound: A deep hum of electrical energy builds, accompanied by sharp cracks and bursts of thunderous sound. The wind whips fiercely around the axe, creating a low, howling noise that grows louder with each swing. Sparks of lightning emit sharp, crackling sounds, adding to the chaotic soundscape. Each swing of the axe brings a heavy, resonant whomp sound, like a storm in motion.
  • Touch: The handle vibrates in the user’s hands, buzzing with an intense energy that surges through their grip. The metal feels cool despite the heat generated by the lightning, and the air around the wielder feels charged and heavy. The rush of wind feels invigorating, as if the user is channeling the raw power of a storm, though it may also cause slight static shocks on exposed skin.
  • Smell: There is a faint smell of ozone, similar to the aftermath of a lightning strike. The wind may carry scents of the environment, mixed with the sharp, ionized air produced by the axe’s activation.
  • Taste: A subtle metallic taste lingers in the mouth, like the tang of iron or the sharpness of static electricity, caused by the high concentration of electrical energy in the air.
  • Extra-sensory Perceptions: The user might sense a deep connection to the elemental forces, as if their mind is tapping into the primal energies of wind and lightning. A feeling of heightened awareness takes over, with the user perceiving a stronger flow of magical power through the weapon. The axe feels almost alive, resonating with the wielder’s intent and emotions.
• Observer’s Perspective:
  • Sight: From the outside, the wielder appears enveloped in a chaotic storm. Sparks of lightning dance across the blade, and the swirling wind around the axe makes it seem like the wielder is in the eye of a tempest. The weapon glows with a fierce blue light, making the wielder appear larger, more imposing, and dangerous. Flashes of light and shadows create a strobe-like effect, dazzling anyone nearby. Each swing leaves behind brief after-images of lightning.
  • Sound: To observers, the activation of the Stormbreaker Axe sounds like a storm being unleashed. The loud hum of electrical energy, combined with the crackling of lightning and the roaring wind, makes it difficult to hear anything else. Every swing of the axe produces a thunderous boom, resonating through the air and potentially startling or intimidating nearby witnesses.
  • Touch: Nearby observers can feel the air growing heavier, almost oppressive, as the electrical energy charges the surroundings. Gusts of wind radiate from the wielder, pushing back anyone too close, and small static shocks might tingle on their skin as they approach.
  • Smell: Observers can smell the sharp scent of ozone as the lightning discharges from the axe, combined with the earthy, electric smell of an approaching storm. If nearby, the sudden rush of wind might also carry the scent of the battlefield or environment toward them.
  • Taste: Observers, especially those in close proximity, may experience a faint metallic taste on the air, as the surrounding energy seems to permeate even the mouth.
  • Extra-sensory Perceptions: Those sensitive to magical energy might feel the raw power radiating from the weapon. To a magically attuned observer, the axe could appear to pulse with chaotic elemental energy, disrupting the natural flow of magic in the environment. Some might sense an overbearing force, like a storm’s eye hovering over the battlefield, while others might feel a sense of awe or foreboding as they perceive the axe’s destructive potential.
• Positives:
  • User:
    • Enhanced strength and power flow from the activation, granting a sense of invincibility and control over elemental forces.
    • Intimidating aura created by the weapon can instill fear in enemies, giving the user a psychological advantage.
    • Heightened awareness of the battlefield through the extra-sensory connection to wind and lightning, allowing for precise, powerful strikes.
  • Observer:
    • Witnessing the awe-inspiring sight of a wielder commanding elemental forces creates admiration and fear.
    • The electrical and wind effects are visually stunning, making the wielder appear god-like or legendary in their presence.
• Negatives:
  • User:
    • The overwhelming power of the axe can cause physical exhaustion after prolonged use, as the body struggles to handle the constant surge of energy.
    • The electrical aura, while useful for intimidation, could also draw unwanted attention or disrupt delicate operations, like stealth maneuvers or team coordination.
    • There is a risk of injury from the static energy that builds up, potentially causing minor shocks or burns, especially if the wielder isn’t careful.
  • Observer:
    • The bright, flashing lightning and gusts of wind could disorient or blind nearby allies, making it difficult to fight alongside the wielder.
    • The constant noise from the crackling energy and roaring wind may drown out commands or important battlefield sounds, creating confusion for the observer.
    • Prolonged exposure to the electric field could cause discomfort, with static shocks and a sense of unease growing the closer an observer gets to the wielder.

The activation of the Stormbreaker Axe is an intense sensory experience for both the wielder and any nearby observers, creating a powerful, awe-inspiring display of elemental energy, but with significant risks if mismanaged.

Crafting Recipe: Stormbreaker Axe

• Materials Needed:
  • Darksteel Ingots (3) – A rare and durable metal known for its conductivity and strength. Essential for crafting the blades of the axe to withstand the intense elemental forces.
  • Zephyrite Crystal (1) – A magical crystal infused with wind energy, harvested from high mountain peaks or the Zephyrstone Islands. Provides the axe with its wind manipulation abilities.
  • Thunderheart Core (1) – A powerful elemental core that houses raw lightning energy, often extracted from storm elementals or found in ancient storm-forged relics.
  • Rune-etched Leather Strips (5) – Durable strips of leather inscribed with ancient runes, used for binding the handle and providing extra magical conductivity.
  • Stormbreaker Essence (1 vial) – A vial of distilled storm energy, collected during a thunderstorm using specialized equipment. This essence is key to imbuing the axe with its electrical aura.
  • Wood from a Tempest Oak (1) – A rare tree that has survived countless storms. The wood is used to craft the core of the axe handle, ensuring it can channel the power of wind and lightning.
  • Skyforge Ember (2) – Embers from a legendary forge that burns only in the sky cities of the Zephyrstone Islands. These embers are required to heat the materials to the right temperature for infusion.
• Tools Required:
  • Skyforge or Elemental Forge – A specialized forge capable of reaching extreme temperatures and channeling elemental forces into the materials.Enchanter’s Rune Carver – A delicate tool used to etch precise runes into the blade to hold the elemental energies.
• • Thunderstrike Hammer – A blacksmith’s hammer imbued with electrical energy, required for shaping the axe and bonding the thunderheart core.
• • Windweaver Anvil – An anvil designed to harness and stabilize wind energy during the crafting process.
  • Lightning Rod and Crystal Prism – Tools used to capture the natural lightning needed to infuse the Thunderheart Core.
• Skill Requirements:
  • Expert Blacksmithing (Level 5+) – A high level of blacksmithing is required to work with Darksteel and shape the powerful elemental forces into a cohesive weapon.
  • Elemental Infusion (Level 4+) – The crafter must have experience in harnessing and controlling elemental energy, especially wind and lightning, to safely infuse the materials.
  • Runecrafting (Level 3+) – Knowledge of ancient rune magic is essential to properly etch the runes that will control and stabilize the axe’s elemental properties.
  • Stormbinding (Level 4+) – A specialized skill that allows the crafter to bind storm energy into physical objects without losing control of the forces involved.
• Crafting Steps:
  • Step 1: Forge the Blades
    • Heat the Darksteel Ingots in the Skyforge or Elemental Forge using the Skyforge Embers.
    • Once the metal reaches a glowing red-hot state, use the Thunderstrike Hammer to shape the ingots into the two massive axe blades.
    • Use the Windweaver Anvil to infuse a steady stream of air around the blades, allowing them to absorb the ambient wind energy.
    • Cool the blades with a gust of air summoned from the Zephyrite Crystal, imbuing them with a swirling wind force.
  • Step 2: Prepare the Handle
    • Carefully carve the Tempest Oak Wood into the handle, ensuring it is sturdy and well-balanced.
    • Use the Rune-etched Leather Strips to bind the handle tightly, focusing on areas that will absorb the force of the elemental energy from the core.
    • Etch wind runes into the leather, allowing the handle to channel and control the wind energy from the blade.
  • Step 3: Infuse the Thunderheart Core
    • Place the Thunderheart Core in the center of the handle. Using the Enchanter’s Rune Carver, carve specialized runes to bind the core to the wood.
    • Activate the Lightning Rod and Crystal Prism during a natural lightning storm to capture a powerful lightning strike. This lightning must be funneled directly into the Thunderheart Core, charging it with raw energy.
    • Stabilize the core by embedding the Zephyrite Crystal at the intersection of the handle and blade, balancing the wind and lightning energies.
  • Step 4: Bonding the Elements
    • Submerge the nearly complete axe in a Stormbreaker Essence bath. This essence will fuse the elemental energies from the blades and core, granting the weapon its aura of electrical power.
    • During this process, channel controlled winds through the Windweaver Anvil to ensure the elemental infusion is balanced, avoiding any instability that could cause the weapon to malfunction.
  • Step 5: Final Runes and Activation
    • Once the axe has absorbed the Stormbreaker Essence, use the Enchanter’s Rune Carver to inscribe lightning runes onto the blades and handle. These runes will control the elemental energy during activation and usage.
    • Perform the Stormbinding ritual to finalize the bond between the elemental energies and the physical weapon.
    • Test the weapon by striking the Windweaver Anvil to ensure it releases the desired wind gusts and electrical discharges.
  • Step 6: Testing and Calibration
    • Test the completed Stormbreaker Axe in a controlled environment, ensuring the wind and lightning energies activate in sync.
    • Adjust the runes or reapply Stormbreaker Essence if needed to refine the elemental effects, ensuring they are stable during combat.

Once completed, the Stormbreaker Axe will be ready for use, with its devastating combination of wind and lightning power channeled through expert craftsmanship and magical infusion. The entire crafting process will take weeks, depending on the availability of materials and the skill of the crafter.

Tale of the Axe That Broke the Sky

Long ago, before the days of men and beasts, there was a weapon forged from the breath of storms and the bones of the earth. In those times, the skies and the ground did not separate, and all things walked among clouds and earth as if both were one.

In the village of those who tamed wind and light, there was a great smith, whose name has been lost to the winds. He, they say, was not born of flesh but of thunder itself. His heart beat like the drum of the storm, and his hands were made from the sky’s anger. One night, as the sky wept its fiercest tears and lightning ripped the heavens asunder, the smith heard the voice of the Wind God speak through the storm.

“You will forge me an axe,” the voice said, “and with it, I will split the sky from the earth so that the heavens shall be free.”

The smith, with hands of thunder and a heart of storm, did as the Wind God commanded. He descended into the deepest cave, where the darkness was thick as stone, and found the bones of the first mountain. There, he carved the axe from its roots, shaping its blades with the strength of a thousand quakes.

Next, he climbed to the highest peak, where lightning never sleeps and the air sings with power. He held the axe to the sky, and with a single strike, called down the lightning. It struck the axe, not once, but twice, thrice, and then a hundred times more, each bolt binding itself into the blade until the metal itself glowed with the fury of the storm.

But the Wind God was impatient. “Now,” it said, “split the sky so that I may reign over all things below.”

And so the smith raised the axe high, its blades crackling with the power of the heavens, and struck at the sky. The blow was so fierce that the wind screamed, and the clouds were torn in two. The sky shattered, and the earth fell beneath it. And from that day, the sky floated free, high above the earth, never to touch again.

But the axe, the axe had tasted too much power. It drank from the wind and the storm and the sky until it could no longer hold the fury within it. The blade began to tremble, and the air around it twisted into chaos. The smith tried to tame it, but the axe had become more than a weapon—it was a storm itself, a force too wild for any hand.

It was said that the smith disappeared into the winds, the axe lost somewhere between the sky and the earth, waiting for the one who could wield it without breaking the world. Some say the storm still roams the skies, calling out to the axe, whispering to those who dare to hold it, “Come, break the sky once more.”

Moral: The strength that comes from the sky cannot be controlled by hands born of the earth. Those who seek to command power beyond their grasp may find that it is the power that commands them instead.

Suggested conversions to other systems:

Call of Cthulhu (7th Edition)

Stormbreaker Axe

• Type: Mythos Artifact
• Damage: 2d6 + 1d6 electrical (on hit)
• Armor Piercing: Ignores 5 points of armor or cover due to the axe’s extreme power.
• Range: Melee
• Special: When the axe is activated, the wielder gains +20% to Intimidate checks due to the intimidating electrical aura.
• Mythos Power: The wielder can summon a lightning storm once per day, causing a massive storm within a mile radius. During the storm, all melee attacks deal an additional 1d6 electrical damage. This storm lasts for 1 hour and may attract Mythos creatures.
• Sanity Loss: 1/1d4 upon witnessing the true power of the Stormbreaker Axe.
• Cost: 1d6 Sanity points to activate the storm ability.
• Historical Background: Believed to be forged by ancient peoples to battle forces of the unknown, the Stormbreaker Axe carries a lingering taint of the Mythos, making its user prone to obsession with its power.

Blades in the Dark

Stormbreaker Axe

• Type: Fine Heavy Weapon (Requires 2 hands)
• Tags: Fine, Heavy, Loud, Unstable
• Effect: The Stormbreaker Axe grants +1d when using it in a Skirmish. Its powerful electrical discharge can arc to nearby enemies, causing widespread chaos. When activated, the axe emits a powerful electrical aura, making all actions that involve intimidation or scaring enemies more effective (+1d on social rolls to intimidate).
• Special Ability (Electrified Storm): Once per score, the user can invoke the full power of the axe, sending out a shockwave of lightning that deals Level 3 Harm to all enemies in close proximity (within 5 feet). The shockwave is loud and destructive, drawing the attention of nearby factions or alerting enemies (increase Heat by 2).
• Devil’s Bargain: Every time the axe is activated, the wielder risks losing control, causing collateral damage or injury to allies (GM’s discretion).
• Load: 4 (Heavy)
• Stress Cost: 2 Stress to activate its full power during a score.

Dungeons & Dragons (5th Edition)

Stormbreaker Axe

• Weapon (greataxe), rare (requires attunement)
• Damage: 2d6 slashing + 1d6 lightning
• Properties: Heavy, two-handed
• Special Ability (Storm Aura): When wielding the Stormbreaker Axe, the user is surrounded by a crackling storm aura. The user gains advantage on Intimidation checks while the weapon is drawn.
• Wind Strike: As an action, the wielder can cause a gust of wind to surge from the axe. Each creature in a 15-foot cone must succeed on a Strength saving throw (DC 15) or be pushed back 10 feet and knocked prone.
• Lightning Arc: Once per long rest, the wielder can release a surge of lightning. As an action, each creature within 10 feet of the wielder must make a Dexterity saving throw (DC 15), taking 4d6 lightning damage on a failed save, or half as much damage on a successful one.
• Electrified Resistance: While attuned to the axe, the wielder has resistance to lightning damage.
• Attunement: The axe requires the user to have a Strength of 15 or higher to attune to it.

Knave

Stormbreaker Axe

• Damage: d8+2 (Slashing and Lightning)
• Traits: Heavy, Two-handed, Rare
• Special Ability (Storm Strike): Once per day, the wielder can release a lightning bolt that strikes a single target. The target must succeed on a Dexterity save (DC 14) or take 2d8 lightning damage.
• Windborne Leap: The wielder can leap up to 30 feet in a single bound once per day by riding a surge of wind. This ability allows the wielder to ignore difficult terrain during this leap.
• Aura of Intimidation: While wielding the axe, the user has advantage on all attempts to intimidate others, as the axe’s crackling energy instills fear.
• Drawback: Every time the axe is used, there’s a 1-in-6 chance that the storm energy backfires, causing the wielder to take 1d6 lightning damage.

Fate Core

Stormbreaker Axe

• Aspect: “Weapon of Wind and Lightning”
• Type: Extraordinary Weapon (Requires High Concept related to Elemental Power or Storm Magic)
• Invoke: The wielder can invoke the axe’s aspect to gain a +2 bonus on Overcome or Attack rolls involving raw force, intimidating foes, or controlling the battlefield with elemental energy.
• Compel: The GM may compel the wielder’s connection to the storm, causing uncontrolled bursts of lightning or wind that could injure allies or disrupt plans.
• Stunts:
  • Storm Aura: Once per scene, the wielder can create an aura of electricity and wind, gaining +2 to any Create an Advantage action involving intimidation or forcing enemies back.
  • Lightning Strike: Once per session, the wielder can call down a bolt of lightning, inflicting 3 shifts of damage to a target.
  • Gale Force: When swinging the axe, the wielder may push back nearby foes by 1 zone on a successful Fight action, making them vulnerable or disrupting their formation.

Numenera & Cypher System

Stormbreaker Axe

• Level: 7 (Artifact)
• Form: A massive double-headed axe crackling with electricity, with runes that glow faintly when not in use.
• Effect: Deals 7 points of damage (plus 2 additional points of lightning damage).
• Special Ability (Stormcall): The wielder can invoke a local storm once per day. The storm lasts for 10 minutes, during which the wielder can unleash a lightning attack for 5 points of lightning damage to all targets within short range (Cost: 2 Intellect).
• Electric Aura: The wielder has +1 Armor against electrical attacks and gains an asset to Intellect defense rolls against any intimidation or fear-based effects.
• Depletion: 1 in 1d20 – Each use of the stormcall ability risks depleting the artifact’s power, rendering it unusable until recharged or repaired.
• GM Intrusion: Occasionally, the axe might overcharge, causing uncontrolled electrical discharges that could harm nearby allies.

Pathfinder 2nd Edition

Stormbreaker Axe

• Weapon (greataxe), rare (requires attunement)
• Damage: 2d12 slashing + 1d6 electricity
• Traits: Heavy, two-handed, magical, electric
• Activation:
  • Storm Aura (Free Action, once per minute): The wielder generates a 10-foot aura of electricity for 1 round. All creatures within the aura take 1d6 electricity damage at the start of the wielder’s turn.
  • Thunderous Strike (2 Actions, Recharge 1d4 rounds): The wielder can strike the ground or an enemy, unleashing a thunderous blast in a 15-foot cone. Targets in the cone must make a Fortitude saving throw (DC 22) or be knocked prone and take 2d6 electricity damage. On a successful save, they take half damage and are not knocked prone.
• Special Ability (Winds of the Storm): The wielder gains a +2 circumstance bonus to Intimidation checks and Athletics checks to shove enemies while holding the axe, as the winds whip around them, enhancing their strength.
• Electrified Resistance: The wielder has resistance 5 to electricity damage while attuned to the axe.

Savage Worlds (Adventure Edition)

Stormbreaker Axe

• Damage: Str+d10 + 1d6 Lightning
• Weight: 15 lbs
• Traits: Heavy Weapon, Two-Handed
• Special Abilities:
  • Storm Aura: The wielder gains a +2 bonus to Intimidation rolls due to the electric and wind aura surrounding them. All creatures in melee range must make an Agility check or be Shaken due to the wild energy.
  • Lightning Strike: Once per encounter, the wielder can unleash a powerful bolt of lightning, hitting all targets within Cone Template. Affected targets must make a Vigor roll (DC 6) or take 2d6 Lightning Damage. On a success, they take half damage.
  • Wind Gust (Push): As an action, the wielder can swing the axe to create a powerful gust of wind, forcing enemies within Medium Burst Template to make a Strength check (DC 6) or be pushed back 1d6 inches.
• Edge: The wielder must have the Brawny or Strong edge to wield the Stormbreaker Axe effectively.
• Power Points: 2 PP to activate Lightning Strike.

Shadowrun (6th Edition)

Stormbreaker Axe

• Type: Melee Weapon (Exotic, 2-handed)
• Damage: 8P (Physical) + 2P (Electrical)
• AP (Armor Piercing): -4 (Electrical discharges partially bypass armor)
• Reach: 2 (Extended range for melee attacks)
• Accuracy: 6
• Special Qualities:
  • Electrical Discharge: On a successful hit, the target must make a Body + Willpower (3) test or be Stunned for 1 combat round.
  • Intimidation Boost: The axe grants a +2 dice pool bonus to Intimidation checks due to its crackling electrical aura and fearsome appearance.
  • Shockwave Attack (3 Edge): Once per encounter, the wielder can use 3 Edge to release a shockwave of electrical energy in a 5-meter radius. All enemies within the radius must succeed on a Reaction + Intuition test (Threshold 3) or take 4P Electrical Damage and be knocked prone.
• Cost: 15,000¥
• Availability: 10R (Rare, restricted due to its potential as a dangerous and destructive weapon)

Starfinder

Stormbreaker Axe

• Level: 8
• Price: 10,000 credits
• Damage: 2d12 slashing + 1d6 electricity
• Critical: Staggered (DC 16) – The electricity can cause the target to become staggered on a critical hit.
• Bulk: 3
• Special:
  • Storm Aura: When wielded, the Stormbreaker Axe emits an aura of crackling energy that grants a +2 enhancement bonus to Intimidate checks.
  • Thunderstrike (3/Day): As a standard action, the wielder can unleash a thunderous strike in a 15-foot cone. Each creature in the cone must make a Reflex save (DC 17) or take 4d6 electrical damage and be pushed back 10 feet. Half damage on a successful save, and no pushback.
  • Electricity Resistance: While wielding the axe, the wielder gains electricity resistance 10.
• Usage: 3 charges (rechargeable using a battery; 1 charge per 8 hours of rest)

Traveller

Stormbreaker Axe

• TL (Tech Level): 14
• Weapon Type: Melee (Power Weapon)
• Damage: 5D (slashing + electrical)
• Mass: 6 kg
• Effect:
  • Electrical Surge: On a hit, the axe delivers an additional 1D electrical damage. This surge can disable electronic devices on impact or short-circuit robotics, causing them to malfunction for 1D rounds (GM’s discretion).
  • Shockwave (1/Day): Once per day, the wielder can slam the axe into the ground, releasing a powerful shockwave that knocks all targets within 6 meters prone and deals 2D damage. The wielder must succeed on a Dexterity check (8+) to avoid being knocked back by the force as well.
  • Aura of Fear: The axe generates an intimidating electrical field, granting the wielder a +2 DM on Leadership and Intimidate checks.
• Cost: 30,000 credits
• Special: Military-grade power weapon, restricted to elite units and high-ranking officers. Illegal on most civilian worlds.

Warhammer 40k (Wrath & Glory)

Stormbreaker Axe

• Weapon Type: Power Weapon (Greataxe)
• Damage: 2d6+5 + 1d6 Shock
• ED (Extra Damage): 1d3
• AP (Armor Penetration): -3
• Special Rules:
  • Storm Aura: The axe crackles with lightning, causing enemies within 2 meters of the wielder to suffer 1 Shock damage at the start of their turn.
  • Thunderous Strike: As an Action, the wielder may spend 1 point of Wrath to unleash a powerful shockwave. Enemies within a 10-meter cone must pass an Athletics test (DN 4) or be knocked prone and take 3 Shock damage.
  • Aura of Intimidation: The wielder gains a +1 bonus on any Intimidation tests while the weapon is drawn and active.
• Keywords: Power, Shock, Relic
• Availability: Extremely rare, often considered a relic of ancient technology from a forgotten age, possibly of xenos origin.
• Cost: 50+ Wealth (GM discretion)