Lore: Crafted by the famed warrior-priestess, Yukimi, the Ofuda of Steadfast Command was her response to the wavering spirits of her disciples. With its inscriptions, it encapsulates her indomitable will and assertiveness, ensuring those who carry it can stand firm in their convictions and lead with unwavering purpose.
Detailed Stats:
- Material: Sturdy oak wood, with gold-inked inscriptions.
- Level: Tier 1
- Rarity: common
- Length: 8 inches.
- Width: 2 inches.
- Charges: 5 max
Roleplay: Characters holding the Ofuda feel a surge of confidence, with their posture straightening and their voice resonating more strongly. It’s almost as if they can hear Yukimi’s voice, guiding and bolstering them.
Cost: 25 gold pieces.
Magics:
- Voice of Command (1 charge): The holder can use an action to speak a directive that compels a target within earshot to consider the directive seriously. The target must make a Wisdom saving throw or be influenced to follow the directive, provided it isn’t harmful or against their core beliefs.
- Stance of Authority (2 charges): The user activates this ability to exude an aura of assertive leadership. For the next minute, any allies within a 10-foot radius gain a +1 bonus to attack rolls and saving throws, inspired by the user’s assertive energy.
Tags: Leadership, Command, Influence, confidence, Authority, Assertiveness, Discipline, Leadership Aura, Empowerment, Tactical, Resolute, Motivational, Charisma, Influence Amplifier
Uses:
- Defense: While not directly protective, the Ofuda can be used to command defensive formations, organize retreats, or even convince foes to stand down.
- Offense: By bolstering allies and giving them a more assertive edge, the Ofuda indirectly improves the group’s offensive capabilities. The Voice of Command can also be used to order foes to surrender or disarm.
- Environment: Best used in group settings where leadership is crucial, such as battles, negotiations, or tense situations that require a strong guiding hand. Its aura can also influence townfolk or other NPCs, making it useful in a variety of scenarios, from preventing mob situations to aiding in bartering.
Recharging: The Ofuda of Steadfast Command can be recharged by placing it on a holy wooden platform and declaring (assertively) three personal convictions or oaths to it during a dawn or dusk ritual. Each ceremony with at least 1 genuine declaration restores one charge, allowing up to 2 recharges per day.
Perception of Ofuda of Steadfast Command
- Sight: The Ofuda, carved from oak wood, is dark brown with shimmering gold inscriptions. The characters, bold and unyielding, radiate a subtle aura of authority.
- Positives: Impressive and imposing to look at, showcasing its strength.
- Negatives: Its robust appearance might make it noticeable, potentially drawing unwanted attention.
- Touch: The wood is smooth to the touch, but the inscriptions are raised, offering tactile feedback. There’s a solid, reassuring weight to it.
- Positives: Feels durable and sturdy.
- Negatives: Its weight might be cumbersome for some users.
- Hearing: When activated, the Ofuda emits a resonating hum, like the sound of a gong struck softly from a distance.
- Positives: Audible confirmation of its activation.
- Negatives: The sound might be a giveaway in stealth situations.
- Taste (though one shouldn’t): A strong and tangy flavor, reminiscent of aged oak and traces of metallic undertones from the gold ink.
- Smell: It carries the woody scent of oak, with hints of the gold ink’s metallic aroma.
- Positives: The woody aroma is grounding and comforting.
- Negatives: The metallic scent might seem out of place for some.
- Emotion: Anyone sensitive to emotional energies feels an overwhelming sense of purpose and determination, akin to being in the presence of a great leader.
- Positives: Encourages clarity of thought and purposeful action.
- Negatives: Overwhelming for those unaccustomed to taking charge or being assertive.
Recipe Ingredients:
- A freshly cut oak plank, chosen specifically for its resilience.
- Gold flakes from a mine where workers lead with conviction and purpose.
- Black ink sourced from the sap of the Elder Tree, known for its steadfast properties.
- A chisel, previously owned by a renowned leader.
Recipe Steps:
- Start by meditating on personal convictions and goals, focusing on moments of strong assertion and leadership in personal history.
- Carve the oak plank into the desired size using the chisel, ensuring smooth edges and an even surface.
- With the same chisel, carve out the designs of the sacred characters which denote “Command,” “Conviction,” and “Purpose.”
- Grind the gold flakes into a fine powder and mix them with the sap ink, creating a shimmering gold-black paste.
- Using a fine brush, fill the carved inscriptions with this paste, making sure every groove is covered.
- Allow the Ofuda to dry under the canopy of the Elder Tree for a night, soaking in its resilient energy.
- As dawn breaks, recite an oath of assertiveness to the Ofuda, imbuing it with the final touch of your personal energy.
- Keep the Ofuda in a leather pouch for a day, letting it absorb the strength and protection of the hide.
- Retrieve the Ofuda and hold it high, declaring its purpose to the world, solidifying its intent and power.
Command of the Unyielding Oak
In the ancient days of Saṃsāra, when kingdoms were young and hearts often wavered in the face of adversity, there arose a warrior-priestess named Yukimi. She was a figure of unwavering conviction, her voice like the toll of a great bell, carrying both strength and purpose. It is said that Yukimi once stood at the head of a crumbling army, a force broken not by the might of their enemies, but by doubt within their own ranks.
Legend tells of the Battle of the Shattered Glen, where her soldiers, though armed and armored, faltered against a tide of foes whose unity was unbreakable. Seeing their fear and hesitation, Yukimi retreated to her shrine, where the sacred oak of the Elder Tree stood tall and resolute. There, she carved the first Ofuda of Steadfast Command from its wood, pouring her indomitable will into the talisman. With golden ink made from her own tears of frustration and blood mixed with sap, she inscribed the characters for “Command,” “Conviction,” and “Purpose.”
When she returned to the battlefield, the Ofuda glowed with an aura that seemed to echo her voice. Yukimi raised it high, and her words rang out like thunder: “Stand firm! For we do not fight for ourselves but for the hope of those who cannot!” Her army felt the weight of her will settle upon them, their doubts cast aside as they rallied behind her.
With each charge of the Ofuda, Yukimi’s voice compelled the foe to falter, sowing hesitation in their ranks. Her aura inspired her soldiers to push forward, their attacks precise, their defense unyielding. By day’s end, the glen was theirs, the enemy routed not by strength of arms alone, but by the steadfast command of a single leader.
After the battle, Yukimi passed the Ofuda to her most trusted disciple, instructing them to wield it only in times of great need. Over centuries, it became a symbol of leadership and conviction, appearing in the hands of those who refused to yield, guiding them to victory in battles of sword, will, and words.
Moral: Leadership is not found in the strength of one’s arms, but in the strength of one’s purpose and the ability to inspire unity when all seems lost.
Suggested conversions to other systems:
Call of Cthulhu (7th Edition)
Ofuda of Steadfast Command
- Type: Magical Talisman
- Cost: $100
- Charges: 5
- Effects:
- Voice of Command (1 charge): Expend 1 charge to target a person within hearing distance. The user makes a Persuade roll opposed by the target’s POW. On success, the target feels compelled to follow a simple directive that does not conflict with their core beliefs.
- Stance of Authority (2 charges): Expend 2 charges to emit an aura of leadership. Allies within 10 feet gain a +10% bonus to all attack and Dodge rolls for 1 minute.
- Passive Effect: The user gains a +10% bonus to Leadership or Intimidate rolls while holding the Ofuda.
- Recharge: Recharges under the light of a new dawn after performing a ritual of conviction or making a bold declaration.
Blades in the Dark
Ofuda of Steadfast Command
- Item Load: 1
- Tier: Fine (Magical Talisman)
- Mechanics:
- Voice of Command: Mark 1 stress to issue a compelling command to an NPC within earshot. The GM determines if the command is reasonable, and the NPC may hesitate or comply based on their disposition. Gain +1d to any follow-up actions tied to the command.
- Stance of Authority: Expend 1 use of the Ofuda to bolster nearby allies. For the remainder of the scene, all allies in close proximity gain improved position on rolls requiring resolve or discipline.
- Passive Effect: While holding the Ofuda, the user gains +1d to Command rolls to rally or inspire others.
- Special: The Ofuda has 5 uses and can be restored by invoking a personal oath or conviction during downtime.
Dungeons & Dragons (5e)
Ofuda of Steadfast Command
- Wondrous Item, uncommon (requires attunement)
- Properties:
- Voice of Command (1 charge): As an action, target one creature within 30 feet that can hear you. The target must make a DC 15 Wisdom saving throw or feel compelled to follow a non-harmful directive until the end of its next turn.
- Stance of Authority (2 charges): As a bonus action, expend 2 charges to create an aura of command. Allies within 10 feet of you gain a +1 bonus to attack rolls and saving throws for 1 minute.
- Passive Effect: While attuned, gain a +2 bonus to Persuasion and Intimidation checks.
- Charges: 5. The Ofuda regains all charges after a long rest performed under the open sky or after reciting three personal convictions.
Knave
Ofuda of Steadfast Command
- Type: Miscellaneous Magical Item
- Slot: Miscellaneous
- Charges: 5
- Mechanics:
- Voice of Command (1 charge): Expend 1 charge to target one creature within earshot. The target must succeed on a Will save or feel compelled to follow a simple command for 1 round.
- Stance of Authority (2 charges): Expend 2 charges to inspire allies. For the next 10 minutes, all allies within 10 feet gain a +1 bonus to attack rolls and saving throws.
- Passive Effect: While carrying the Ofuda, gain +1 to Charisma-based checks related to leadership or persuasion.
- Special: Recharges fully during a long rest or after the user makes a bold and sincere declaration of purpose.
Fate Core
Ofuda of Steadfast Command
- Item Type: Magical Talisman
- Refresh Cost: 2
- Aspects:
- “The Indomitable Voice of Leadership”
- “Carved from Conviction”
- Effects:
- Voice of Command: Once per session, invoke the Ofuda to compel a single NPC or ally to follow a directive that aligns with their general beliefs. This creates a temporary Aspect, such as “Compelled by Leadership.” Gain one free invocation on this Aspect.
- Stance of Authority: Spend 1 Fate point to emit an aura of leadership for a scene. Allies in the same zone gain a +2 bonus to rolls that involve resolve, morale, or resisting fear.
- Passive Effect: Gain a +2 bonus when creating an Advantage tied to persuasion, leadership, or rallying others.
Numenera & Cypher System
Ofuda of Steadfast Command
- Type: Artifact
- Level: 5
- Form: A sturdy wooden talisman with gold-inscribed characters.
- Effects:
- Voice of Command: Expend 1 charge as an action to compel a creature within short range to follow a simple directive. The creature must succeed on an Intellect defense roll (Difficulty 4) or comply.
- Stance of Authority: Expend 2 charges as an action to grant all allies within immediate range a +1 asset to tasks related to combat, resolve, or focus for 10 minutes.
- Passive Effect: While carrying the Ofuda, gain a +1 bonus to Intellect-based tasks involving leadership or persuasion.
- Depletion: 1 in 1d20 after each use.
Pathfinder 2e
Ofuda of Steadfast Command
- Item Type: Talisman
- Level: 5
- Price: 150 gp
- Activation: Operate Activation (Action or Reaction) [Manipulate]
- Effects:
- Voice of Command (1 charge): Activate the Ofuda as an action to target a creature within 30 feet. The target must succeed on a DC 18 Will save or feel compelled to follow a reasonable directive for 1 round.
- Stance of Authority (2 charges): Activate the Ofuda as a free action during your turn. Allies within a 10-foot radius gain a +1 status bonus to attack rolls and saving throws against fear effects for 1 minute.
- Passive Effect: While carrying the Ofuda, you gain a +2 circumstance bonus to Diplomacy and Intimidation checks involving leadership or persuasion.
- Recharge: Fully recharges after performing a dawn or dusk ritual where you declare three personal oaths or convictions.
Savage Worlds (Adventure Edition)
Ofuda of Steadfast Command
- Type: Magical Talisman
- Cost: $800
- Rarity: Rare
- Power Points: 5
- Effects:
- Voice of Command: Expend 1 Power Point as a free action to target a single creature within Smarts range. The creature must make a Spirit roll at -2 or follow a simple command on their next action.
- Stance of Authority: Expend 2 Power Points as an action to grant all allies within a Medium Burst Template a +1 bonus to attack rolls and Spirit rolls for the next 5 rounds.
- Passive Effect: While carrying the Ofuda, gain a +1 bonus to Persuasion rolls when rallying or inspiring allies.
- Recharge: Regains 1 Power Point per hour of meditation on personal convictions or after a bold and public declaration of purpose.
Shadowrun (6th Edition)
Ofuda of Steadfast Command
- Type: Focus (Magical Talisman)
- Category: Mana
- Force: 3
- Cost: ¥8,000
- Effects:
- Voice of Command (1 charge): As a Simple Action, target a creature within hearing range. The user makes an opposed Leadership + Charisma test against the target’s Willpower + Logic. On success, the target feels compelled to follow a reasonable directive for 1 Combat Turn.
- Stance of Authority (2 charges): As a Simple Action, expend 2 charges to grant allies within 10 meters +1 dice to attack and defense tests for 2 Combat Turns.
- Passive Effect: While holding the Ofuda, gain +1 dice to Leadership rolls and +2 dice when attempting to inspire or rally allies.
- Recharge: Fully recharges after a leadership ritual performed under a full moon or during a personal declaration of intent.
Starfinder
Ofuda of Steadfast Command
- Type: Magical Item (Talisman)
- Level: 5
- Price: 2,800 credits
- Bulk: L
- Activation: Standard Action
- Effects:
- Voice of Command (1 charge): Target a creature within 30 feet. The target must succeed on a DC 18 Will save or follow a simple, reasonable command for 1 round.
- Stance of Authority (2 charges): Activate the Ofuda to grant allies within 20 feet a +1 morale bonus to attack rolls and saving throws against fear effects for 1 minute.
- Passive Effect: Gain a +2 insight bonus to Diplomacy and Intimidate checks while holding the Ofuda.
- Recharge: Fully recharges during a long rest if the user performs a dawn or dusk ritual declaring three personal convictions.
Traveller (Mongoose 2nd Edition)
Ofuda of Steadfast Command
- Item Type: Advanced Artifact
- Tech Level: TL 15
- Cost: Cr20,000
- Effects:
- Voice of Command (1 charge): As a Minor Action, target a creature within Short range. Make a Leadership check against the target’s Intellect DM. On success, the target follows a simple command for 1 round unless it directly conflicts with their core beliefs.
- Stance of Authority (2 charges): As a Standard Action, expend 2 charges to grant all allies within Close range +1 DM to attack and Defense rolls for 5 minutes.
- Passive Effect: While carrying the Ofuda, gain a +1 DM to all Leadership and Persuade checks.
- Recharge: Regains 1 charge per day spent meditating on personal oaths or convictions.
Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay (4th Edition)
Ofuda of Steadfast Command
- Type: Magical Talisman
- Rarity: Very Rare
- Encumbrance: Negligible
- Price: 40 Gold Crowns
- Effects:
- Voice of Command (1 charge): As a Free Action, target one creature within 10 yards. The target must succeed on an Average (Challenging +0) Cool Test or follow a simple directive for 1 round.
- Stance of Authority (2 charges): Expend 2 charges to create an aura that lasts for 3 rounds. Allies within 10 yards gain +10% to Weapon Skill and Leadership Tests and immunity to fear effects during this time.
- Passive Effect: Gain a +1 advantage bonus when making Leadership or Intimidate Tests to rally or command allies.
- Recharge: Fully recharges after a bold declaration of intent during a significant celestial event or a holy ritual at dawn.