Flameheart Ember

From: Tanglebark Menagerie

This small, enchanted gem is taken from the heart of an Emberhound and radiates a warm, comforting glow. When held, it can be invoked to summon a small, friendly flame that provides both light and warmth. The flame is also capable of igniting flammable objects, proving useful in dark or cold environments.

Lore: Flameheart Ember
The Flameheart Ember is a rare and precious gemstone that embodies the essence of the fiery energy within the Tanglebark Menagerie. It is obtained from the heart of an Emberhound, the elemental creatures of living flame that roam the dungeon’s volcanic regions. The gemstone resonates with the heart’s vibrant energy, emitting a warm and comforting glow that serves as a connection to the elemental fires of the Menagerie. Crafted with enchantments, the Flameheart Ember has the ability to summon a small, friendly flame that provides light, warmth, and a touch of the Menagerie’s fiery magic.

Use: Flameheart Ember
The Flameheart Ember is a versatile and invaluable tool for adventurers exploring the depths of the Tanglebark Menagerie and beyond. When held, it can be invoked to summon a small flame that serves multiple practical purposes. The flame offers illumination in dark environments, provides warmth in cold conditions, and can be directed to ignite flammable objects. This magical gem offers both utility and companionship, embodying the elemental essence of fire within the magical realm of the Menagerie.

Values: Flameheart Ember

• Level Requirement: None
• Light Range: 20 feet (bright light) plus 20 feet (dim light)
• Special Feature: When invoked, the Flameheart Ember can summon a small flame that provides light, warmth, and the ability to ignite flammable objects up to 40 feet away.

Skills:

• Arcana: +1 (Proficiency bonus when held) giving 4 resulting temporary hit points which expires after one day (if not used) then may be added back on character once per day when invoked.

Cost and Requirements: The Flameheart Ember is not typically sold in conventional markets due to its rarity and the specific conditions required for its creation. Obtaining a Flameheart Ember requires traversing the volcanic and fiery regions of the Tanglebark Menagerie, where Emberhounds reside. To acquire the gemstone, characters must demonstrate a profound respect for the elemental forces and a willingness to learn from the Menagerie’s fiery inhabitants.

Tags:

• Elemental: The Flameheart Ember is infused with the elemental essence of fire, granting it the ability to manifest a small, controlled flame.
• Enchanted: The gemstone is enchanted to summon and maintain a magical flame.

Strategy: The Flameheart Ember serves as a versatile and essential tool for adventurers exploring both the Tanglebark Menagerie and the wider world:

• Illumination: The flame emitted by the gem provides bright light within a 20-foot radius, allowing characters to navigate dark environments without the need for traditional light sources.
• Warmth: The flame emits a comforting warmth, making it a valuable source of heat in cold or frigid conditions.
• Ignition: The Flameheart Ember can be directed to ignite flammable objects, such as torches, campfires, or even objects that enemies might be using for cover.
• Companionship: The magical flame summoned by the gem often takes on a friendly and almost playful demeanor, providing a sense of companionship in the midst of the Menagerie’s challenges.

The Flameheart Ember is a physical representation of the fiery heart of the Tanglebark Menagerie, granting adventurers the power to harness elemental fire for both practical and magical purposes. Possession of the gemstone signifies a connection to the dungeon’s elemental magic and a willingness to embrace the balance between the wild and the controlled aspects of fire.

Selling and Obtaining the Flameheart Ember: The Flameheart Ember is not an item that is commonly bought or sold in conventional markets. Its unique nature, tied to the heart of an Emberhound and infused with elemental fire magic, makes it a rare and sought-after treasure that can often only be obtained through direct interaction with the Tanglebark Menagerie itself.

Adventurers seeking the Flameheart Ember might embark on a journey into the volcanic regions of the Menagerie, where Emberhounds dwell. To acquire the gemstone, they would need to demonstrate their understanding of the delicate balance of elemental forces, as well as their willingness to work in harmony with the fiery aspects of the dungeon. This might involve completing trials, forming temporary alliances with the dungeon’s inhabitants, or showcasing their affinity for fire magic and control.

Environment and Usage: The Flameheart Ember is most potent and effective in environments that resonate with the fiery and elemental energies of the Tanglebark Menagerie. It comes to life in places where flames dance in the shadows, and where the elemental balance between fire and other forces is clearly felt. The gemstone’s warm glow becomes brighter and more comforting in the presence of intense heat and fire.

The uses of the Flameheart Ember are varied and impactful:

• Illumination: The summoned flame offers a practical solution for illuminating dark and dim environments, serving as a mobile light source that can be directed where needed.
• Warmth and Survival: The gemstone’s warmth becomes invaluable in cold conditions, providing adventurers with a source of comfort and protection from harsh temperatures.
• Ignition: The ability to ignite flammable objects proves useful for creating campfires, setting traps, or using fire strategically in combat.
• Elemental Bond: Holding the Flameheart Ember creates a connection to the elemental forces of fire, allowing those attuned to it to better understand and control fire magic.

The Flameheart Ember goes beyond its practical uses to become a symbol of the Menagerie’s fiery spirit. Possessing it signifies a connection to the dungeon’s dynamic and unpredictable aspects while also demonstrating the ability to harness fire’s power in a balanced and controlled manner. It is a magical relic that embodies the dance between chaos and harmony in the Tanglebark Menagerie.

Activation Perception of the Flameheart Ember

• Sight
  • Perceived:
    • The gem glows with a vibrant, fiery red light.
    • Flames flicker within the gem, creating an illusion of a living fire.
  • Description:
    • When activated, the Flameheart Ember emits a radiant glow that illuminates its surroundings. The internal flames dance and flicker, creating a mesmerizing visual effect.
  • Positives:
    • Provides a clear and bright source of light.
    • The flickering flames create a captivating and enchanting visual experience.
  • Negatives:
    • The bright glow can attract unwanted attention in dark environments.
    • Prolonged staring at the flickering flames might cause visual fatigue.
• Hearing
  • Perceived:
    • A soft crackling sound, similar to that of a small campfire.
    • Occasionally, faint hissing or popping noises.
  • Description:
    • The activation of the gem produces a gentle, soothing crackling sound, reminiscent of a cozy fire. The occasional hissing or popping adds to the sensation of a living flame.
  • Positives:
    • The sound can be comforting and enhance the atmosphere.
    • The crackling noise adds to the realistic experience of holding a small flame.
  • Negatives:
    • The sounds might be distracting in quiet or stealthy situations.
    • Continuous crackling could become annoying over time.
• Touch
  • Perceived:
    • The gem feels warm to the touch, with a gentle, comforting heat.
    • A slight tingling sensation when holding the gem.
  • Description:
    • When activated, the Flameheart Ember emits a pleasant warmth that can be felt through the skin. The gem itself remains solid, but the warmth radiates outwards, creating a soothing sensation.
  • Positives:
    • Provides a source of warmth in cold environments.
    • The comforting heat can be relaxing and reassuring.
  • Negatives:
    • The warmth might be uncomfortable in already hot conditions.
    • The tingling sensation could be unsettling for some users.
• Smell
  • Perceived:
    • A faint scent of burning wood or charcoal.
    • A subtle aroma of warm spices, like cinnamon or clove.
  • Description:
    • The activation of the gem releases a light, pleasant fragrance that evokes the smell of a cozy fireplace or campfire. The warm, spicy undertones add to the comforting ambiance.
  • Positives:
    • The scent can enhance the feeling of warmth and coziness.
    • The pleasant aroma adds to the overall sensory experience.
  • Negatives:
    • The smell might be distracting or overwhelming for individuals sensitive to scents.
    • The scent could attract animals or other creatures.
• Taste
  • Perceived:
    • A slight metallic taste in the air, similar to the taste experienced near a live flame.
  • Description:
    • When the gem is activated, a barely noticeable metallic taste lingers in the air, adding to the sensation of being near a fire.
  • Positives:
    • The taste complements the other sensory perceptions, creating a holistic experience.
    • Adds to the realism of the flame’s presence.
  • Negatives:
    • The metallic taste might be unpleasant for some users.
    • Prolonged exposure could cause a dry mouth.
• Extra-Sensory Perceptions
  • Magical Aura Perception
    • Perceived:
      • A strong, pulsating aura of elemental fire.
      • The aura’s intensity increases with the duration of activation.
    • Description:
      • The gem radiates a powerful aura that can be felt as a pulsating energy. This aura grows stronger the longer the gem is activated, creating a sense of heightened magical presence.
    • Positives:
      • The aura provides a clear indication of the gem’s active state.
      • Enhances the wearer’s awareness of nearby elemental energies.
    • Negatives:
      • The strong aura might be overwhelming for those sensitive to magical energies.
      • Prolonged exposure could lead to magical fatigue.
  • Emotional Resonance
    • Perceived:
      • A deep sense of warmth and comfort.
      • A feeling of companionship and safety.
    • Description:
      • The activation of the gem fosters a strong emotional connection, bringing a sense of warmth and security. This emotional resonance can make the user feel less lonely and more at ease.
    • Positives:
      • Provides emotional comfort and support.
      • Enhances the sense of companionship in challenging environments.
    • Negatives:
      • The intense emotional connection might be overwhelming for some users.
      • The user might become overly reliant on the gem for emotional stability.

These perceptions enhance the user’s interaction with the Flameheart Ember, providing a rich, multisensory experience that deepens their connection to the elemental essence of fire and enhances their practical and emotional well-being.

Recipe: Crafting the Flameheart Ember

• Materials Needed
  • Emberhound Heart: 1
    • The heart of an Emberhound, an elemental creature of living flame.
  • Enchanted Gemstone: 1
    • A high-quality gemstone capable of holding magical energy, preferably ruby or garnet.
  • Volcanic Ash: 1 handful
    • Ash from a volcanic region, imbued with the essence of fire.
  • Elemental Fire Essence: 1 vial
    • A distilled liquid containing the pure essence of elemental fire.
  • Binding Resin: 1 jar
    • A natural resin collected from enchanted trees, used to hold the components together.
  • Charcoal Dust: A pinch
    • Fine dust from burnt wood, used for engraving runes.
• Tools Required
  • Alchemical Workbench
  • Infusion Cauldron
  • Precision Carving Tools
  • Binding Apparatus
  • Rune Engraving Kit
• Skill Requirements
  • Alchemy: Advanced level
  • Enchanting: Advanced level
  • Crafting and Forging: Intermediate level
  • Nature Knowledge: Expert level
  • Elemental Magic: Advanced level
• Crafting Steps
  • Preparation of Materials:
    • Emberhound Heart: Carefully extract and clean the heart. Preserve it in a cool, dry place.
    • Enchanted Gemstone: Select a high-quality gemstone and ensure it is free from impurities.
    • Volcanic Ash: Gather ash from a volcanic region, ensuring it is imbued with elemental fire energy.
  • Infusing the Gemstone:
    • Prepare the Infusion Cauldron: Fill the cauldron with water and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the Volcanic Ash and Elemental Fire Essence to the water.
    • Infuse the Gemstone: Submerge the enchanted gemstone into the infusion cauldron. Allow it to soak for one hour, absorbing the fiery essence from the infusion.
  • Crafting the Core:
    • Shape the Emberhound Heart: Use precision carving tools to shape the heart into a small, rounded core that fits within the gemstone.
    • Bind the Heart and Gemstone: Apply the binding resin to attach the heart securely within the gemstone. Allow the resin to set and harden.
  • Engraving Runes:
    • Prepare the Charcoal Dust: Mix the charcoal dust with a small amount of binding resin to create a paste.
    • Engrave the Gemstone: Use the rune engraving kit to inscribe fire runes onto the surface of the gemstone. Fill the engraved runes with the charcoal paste to enhance their magical properties.
  • Final Enchantment:
    • Enchant the Gemstone: Place the completed gemstone on the alchemical workbench. Channel elemental magic into the gemstone, imbuing it with the ability to summon a small flame.
    • Seal the Enchantment: Perform a sealing ritual to lock the enchantment into the gemstone, ensuring its stability and longevity.
  • Final Inspection and Blessing:
    • Inspect for Flaws: Carefully examine the gemstone for any imperfections or weaknesses. Make any necessary adjustments or repairs.
    • Blessing Ritual: Perform a final blessing ritual in a volcanic region or near a source of elemental fire. This involves offering thanks to the elemental spirits and ensuring the gemstone’s alignment with fire magic.
  • Storage and Usage:
    • Proper Storage: Store the Flameheart Ember in a padded, protective case when not in use. Keep it in a cool, dry place to maintain its integrity.
    • Activation: To use the gemstone, hold it gently and focus on its internal flames. Activate the flame by channeling a small amount of personal energy into the gemstone, allowing it to summon a small, friendly flame.

By following these steps, a skilled alchemist or enchanter can successfully recreate the Flameheart Ember, a powerful tool for harnessing elemental fire. Handle with care and respect, as the gemstone’s abilities are both profound and delicate.

Tale of the Heart of Fire

In the days of ancient times, when the earth was young and magic was wild, there was the heart of flame called Flameheart Ember. This heart, so they tell, was born from the Emberhound, a creature of fire and fury, roaming the volcanic lands of Tanglebark Menagerie. The tale, passed down through ages, speaks of the crafting and power of this fiery gem.

Once, in the depths of the fiery mountains, there lived a wise sage named Hrothgar. He sought the power of fire to bring warmth and light to his people, who lived in the cold and dark. Knowing of the Emberhound, he journeyed into the heart of the Tanglebark Menagerie. Through peril and danger, he confronted the Emberhound, not to conquer, but to ask for a gift.

The Emberhound, seeing the purity of Hrothgar’s intent, gave its heart willingly. Hrothgar, with the heart of the Emberhound, returned to his people. In his hands, the heart became a gem of vibrant fire, radiating warmth and light. The sage, with great skill and knowledge, crafted the Flameheart Ember, embedding the essence of fire within a gemstone.

When the Flameheart Ember was held, it could summon a small flame, friendly and warm. This flame provided light in the darkest of nights and warmth in the coldest of winters. It could also ignite the wood for cooking and warmth, proving most useful for Hrothgar’s people. The gem was cherished, a symbol of hope and survival.

But, as with all great gifts, it had its trials. Many sought the gem for their own, not understanding its true purpose. They saw only its power and not its spirit. The Flameheart Ember, when misused, would grow dim and cold, refusing to summon its flame. Only those with pure intent and respect for the element of fire could wield it.

The tale, through many tongues and times, became a legend. It told of Hrothgar’s wisdom, the Emberhound’s gift, and the creation of the Flameheart Ember. It was a tale of seeking light in darkness, warmth in cold, and the balance between man and magic.

The Moral of the Story: True power lies not in domination, but in harmony. The Flameheart Ember teaches us that the gifts of nature are to be cherished and respected. Only with pure intent and a true heart can we harness the elements to bring light and warmth to our lives.

Suggested conversions to other systems:

Call of Cthulhu (7th Edition)

Flameheart Ember

• Description: A small, enchanted gem taken from the heart of an Emberhound, radiating a warm, comforting glow.
• Stats:
  • Sanity Loss: 0/1d2
  • Skill Bonus: +10% to Occult and Natural World checks.
• Mechanics:
  • Summon Flame: The wearer can activate the gem to summon a small, friendly flame that provides light and warmth. The flame can ignite flammable objects within a 10-foot radius.
  • Light Range: 20 feet (bright light), 20 feet (dim light).
  • Activation: Requires a successful POW roll to activate.

Blades in the Dark

Flameheart Ember

• Description: An enchanted gem from the heart of an Emberhound that can summon a small flame.
• Quality: Tier III
• Mechanics:
  • Summon Flame: The user can activate the gem to summon a small, friendly flame that provides light and warmth, and can ignite flammable objects.
  • Uses per Score: Twice per score.
  • Activation: Requires a successful Attune roll. On a 4/5, the user takes 1 stress. On a 6, the user avoids stress.

Dungeons & Dragons (5th Edition)

Flameheart Ember

• Wondrous Item, Rare (Requires Attunement)
• Description: A small gem from the heart of an Emberhound, capable of summoning a small flame.
• Stats:
  • Light Range: 20 feet (bright light), 20 feet (dim light).
  • Special Feature: When invoked, the Flameheart Ember can summon a small flame that provides light, warmth, and the ability to ignite flammable objects up to 40 feet away.
  • Skill Bonus: Arcana: +1 (Proficiency bonus when held), giving 4 resulting temporary hit points which expire after one day (if not used) then may be added back once per day when invoked.
• Mechanics:
  • Summon Flame: The wearer can use a bonus action to activate the gem, summoning a small flame. The flame lasts for 1 hour or until dismissed.
  • Activation: Requires attunement and a successful Wisdom (Arcana) check (DC 15) to activate.

Knave

Flameheart Ember

• Description: A gem from the heart of an Emberhound that can summon a small flame, providing light and warmth.
• Stats:
  • Armor Class: N/A
  • Usage: Twice per day
• Mechanics:
  • Summon Flame: The user can activate the gem to summon a small, friendly flame that provides light and warmth, and can ignite flammable objects.
  • Activation: Requires a successful Intelligence roll to activate.

Fate Core

Flameheart Ember

• Description: A small, enchanted gem taken from the heart of an Emberhound, capable of summoning a small flame that provides light and warmth.
• Aspects:
  • High Concept: Gem of Elemental Fire
  • Trouble: Draws Attention in Darkness
• Skills:
  • Summon Flame: Grants a +2 to Overcome rolls when using the flame for light or warmth.
• Stunts:
  • Flame Summoning: Twice per session, the user can summon a small flame that provides light (20 feet bright, 20 feet dim) and warmth, or ignite flammable objects within a 10-foot radius.
• Mechanics:
  • Activation: Requires a Fate point to activate the flame summoning ability.

Numenera & Cypher System

Flameheart Ember

• Description: An enchanted gem from the heart of an Emberhound that can summon a small flame.
• Level: 5
• Stats:
  • Effect: The wearer can activate the gem to summon a small flame that provides light (20 feet bright, 20 feet dim) and warmth, and can ignite flammable objects up to 10 feet away.
• Mechanics:
  • Activation: Requires 3 Intellect points to activate the flame summoning ability. The flame lasts for 10 minutes or until dismissed.

Pathfinder (2nd Edition)

Flameheart Ember

• Wondrous Item, Rare (Requires Attunement)
• Description: A small gem from the heart of an Emberhound, capable of summoning a small flame.
• Stats:
  • Light Range: 20 feet (bright light), 20 feet (dim light).
  • Special Feature: When invoked, the Flameheart Ember can summon a small flame that provides light, warmth, and the ability to ignite flammable objects up to 10 feet away.
  • Skill Bonus: Arcana: +1 (Proficiency bonus when held), giving 4 resulting temporary hit points which expire after one day (if not used) then may be added back once per day when invoked.
• Mechanics:
  • Summon Flame: The wearer can use a bonus action to activate the gem, summoning a small flame. The flame lasts for 10 minutes or until dismissed.
  • Activation: Requires attunement and a successful Arcana check (DC 15) to activate.

Savage Worlds

Flameheart Ember

• Description: A small, enchanted gem that can summon a small flame, providing light and warmth.
• Stats:
  • Type: Magic Item
  • Effect: The wearer can activate the gem to summon a small flame that provides light (20 feet bright, 20 feet dim) and warmth, and can ignite flammable objects up to 10 feet away.
• Mechanics:
  • Summon Flame: Activation requires a successful Spirit roll. The flame lasts for 10 minutes or until dismissed.
  • Bonus: Provides +1 to Survival rolls when used for warmth.

Shadowrun (6th Edition)

Flameheart Ember

• Description: An enchanted gem taken from the heart of an Emberhound, capable of summoning a small flame that provides light and warmth.
• Stats:
  • Type: Magical Artifact
  • Rating: 4
• Mechanics:
  • Summon Flame: The user can activate the gem to summon a small flame that provides light (20 feet bright, 20 feet dim) and warmth, and can ignite flammable objects within a 10-foot radius.
  • Uses per Day: Twice per day.
  • Activation: Requires a successful Magic + Willpower [Astral] (3) test to activate.
  • Drain: F (Force) / 2 (round up) + 1 (Stun Damage).

Starfinder

Flameheart Ember

• Description: An enchanted gem from the heart of an Emberhound that can summon a small flame.
• Level: 6
• Price: 8,000 credits
• Stats:
  • Light Range: 20 feet (bright light), 20 feet (dim light).
  • Usage: Twice per day.
• Mechanics:
  • Summon Flame: The user can activate the gem to summon a small flame that provides light and warmth, and can ignite flammable objects up to 10 feet away. The flame lasts for 10 minutes or until dismissed.
  • Activation: Requires a move action to activate.

Traveller (Mongoose, 2nd Edition)

Flameheart Ember

• Description: An enchanted gem that allows the wearer to summon a small flame, taken from the heart of an Emberhound.
• Stats:
  • Tech Level: 13
  • Cost: 100,000 credits
• Mechanics:
  • Summon Flame: The user can activate the gem to summon a small flame that provides light (20 feet bright, 20 feet dim) and warmth, and can ignite flammable objects up to 10 feet away. The flame lasts for 10 minutes or until dismissed.
  • Activation: Requires a successful Intellect + Science (DM+2) check to activate.

Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay (4th Edition)

Flameheart Ember

• Description: A small gem taken from the heart of an Emberhound, capable of summoning a small flame.
• Stats:
  • Encumbrance: 0
  • Value: 200 Gold Crowns
• Mechanics:
  • Summon Flame: The user can activate the gem to summon a small flame that provides light (20 feet bright, 20 feet dim) and warmth, and can ignite flammable objects within a 10-foot radius. The flame lasts for 10 minutes or until dismissed.
  • Activation: Requires a successful Language (Magick) Test to activate.