Songwood Instruments

From: Arcane Forges of Lumengarde

Lore: The history of Songwood Instruments is steeped in the mystique of the ancient Songwood groves. These groves, rumored to be guarded by ethereal spirits, are said to resonate with the very essence of music and harmony. It is believed that the Songwood trees themselves are imbued with magical properties, allowing them to produce wood with exceptional acoustics and resonance.

Legends speak of a legendary bard named Melodya, whose voice and music were said to have the power to move mountains and soothe the most troubled souls. It is said that Melodya discovered the Songwood groves during her wanderings, and she was inspired to craft a musical instrument from the divine wood she found there. Thus, the first Songwood Instrument was born, and its enchanting melodies captured the hearts of all who heard it.

Over the ages, the art of crafting Songwood Instruments has been passed down through generations of skilled artisans and musicians. Each instrument is crafted with reverence and care, infused with the magical essence of the Songwood groves, and cherished by bards and musicians seeking to create soul-stirring melodies.

Specific Tier One Stats:

• Bonus to Performance Rolls: +2
• Enchanting Melodies: Once per long rest, the musician can cast the Charm Person spell using their musical performance (save DC 12).

Skills and Requirements: To play Songwood Instruments effectively, characters require proficiency in Performance. Learning to craft these instruments demands proficiency with artisan’s tools (Musical Instrument Maker’s Tools) and a deep appreciation for music and artistry.

Tags:

• Musical: Songwood Instruments are musical instruments, providing bonuses to musical performances and magical effects.
• Enchanted: Infused with the magical essence of the Songwood groves, the instruments have a unique magical effect that allows the musician to cast the Charm Person spell.
• Rare: Crafted from the rare Songwood, these instruments are precious and highly sought after by musicians and collectors alike.
• Additional: Artisanal, Mystical, Harmonic, Legendary, Ethereal, Precious, Cultural, Magical, Revered, Acoustic

Sale and Distribution: Songwood Instruments are rare and cherished artifacts, often sold in prestigious music academies, specialized music shops, and magical marketplaces where rare and valuable items are traded. Skilled artisans and renowned musicians who have mastered the craft of creating Songwood Instruments may also offer them for sale or commission.

Due to their rarity and magical properties, Songwood Instruments often command high prices, making them a coveted possession among bards, musicians, and collectors. The demand for these instruments ensures that they are consistently sought after in markets across Saṃsāra.

Usage and Impact: Songwood Instruments have a profound impact on the world of music and art in Saṃsāra. Bards and musicians who wield these instruments gain the ability to create captivating and enchanting melodies that touch the hearts of their audiences. Whether performing in grand halls, humble taverns, or ethereal groves, the melodies of Songwood Instruments evoke a wide range of emotions in listeners, from joy and inspiration to deep contemplation and serenity.

The Charm Person spell granted by the Songwood Instruments’ enchanting melodies further enhances their impact. Skilled musicians can use this magical effect to captivate and charm others, creating unique opportunities for diplomacy, intrigue, and storytelling during their performances.

Beyond their artistic use, Songwood Instruments also hold cultural significance in Saṃsāra. They are often presented as gifts to royalty, bestowed upon legendary bards and musicians, and passed down as treasured heirlooms through musical lineages. In some societies, these instruments are considered sacred, and performances with Songwood Instruments are part of important rituals and ceremonies.

Songwood Instruments are more than just musical instruments; they are magical conduits of art and emotion. Their creation and usage celebrate the artistry of bards and musicians while also adding an element of enchantment and intrigue.

Perception of Activation: When a Songwood Instrument is activated, its magical properties come to life, creating a multisensory experience that resonates deeply with both the user and any observers present. The activation, often triggered by the musician playing a specific melody or focusing their intent through the instrument, brings forth the enchanting melodies and magical effects tied to the Songwood groves. Below is a detailed breakdown of the sensory and extrasensory perceptions from the user’s perspective, the observer’s perspective, as well as the positives and negatives associated with this activation.

• User’s Perspective:
  • The user, typically a bard or musician proficient in Performance, experiences the activation of the Songwood Instrument as an intimate and profound connection to the instrument’s magic. As they begin to play, their fingers glide over the strings, and they feel a subtle warmth emanating from the wood, as if the instrument is alive and responding to their touch. The Songwood’s grain seems to pulse faintly under their fingertips, a tactile sensation that feels like a heartbeat synchronized with their own. The sound produced is rich and resonant, filling their ears with a melody that seems to echo beyond the physical realm, as though the notes are harmonizing with an unseen choir of ethereal spirits. Visually, the user perceives glowing arcane runes along the instrument’s body, which shimmer with a soft, golden light that pulses in time with the music. The scent of the Songwood grove itself seems to waft from the instrument—a mix of fresh pine, blooming wildflowers, and a hint of ancient earth, evoking memories of a sacred forest. Taste is less directly involved, but the user might notice a faint sweetness on their lips, as if the air around them has been infused with the essence of honeyed nectar carried on the breeze of their melody.
  • Extrasensorily, the user feels a deep emotional resonance, as though the instrument is amplifying their own feelings and weaving them into the music. They might sense a connection to the Songwood groves, experiencing fleeting visions of ethereal spirits dancing among the trees, their laughter blending with the melody. There’s also a heightened awareness of the emotions of those around them, as the Charm Person spell begins to take effect, allowing the user to feel the shifting moods of their audience—whether it’s awe, joy, or a subtle undercurrent of resistance to the magic.
• Observer’s Perspective:
  • From an observer’s standpoint, the activation of the Songwood Instrument is a captivating spectacle that draws the attention of anyone nearby. Visually, they see the instrument come alive with glowing arcane runes that trace intricate patterns across its surface, casting a soft, golden light that illuminates the immediate area. The lute’s wood appears to shimmer faintly, as if infused with starlight, and the strings seem to vibrate with an otherworldly energy. The sound is the most striking element—observers hear a melody that feels both hauntingly beautiful and deeply moving, as though the music is speaking directly to their soul. The notes seem to linger in the air, creating a harmonic resonance that feels almost tangible, like a gentle vibration against their skin. The scent of the Songwood grove reaches the observers as well, a refreshing aroma of forest air, wildflowers, and a faint trace of moss, which contrasts with the environment they’re in, making the experience feel otherworldly. While taste isn’t directly affected, some observers might feel a dryness in their mouth as the magic of the Charm Person spell begins to take hold, their senses heightened by the enchantment.
  • Extrasensorily, observers often feel a pull on their emotions, as though the music is drawing out their deepest feelings. Those susceptible to the Charm Person spell might sense a growing fondness for the musician, their perception of the user shifting to one of admiration or trust. Some observers might also experience a faint, dreamlike vision of the Songwood groves, seeing ghostly images of trees swaying in an unseen wind, their branches whispering secrets in a language they can’t quite understand. For those with a strong connection to magic, there’s a subtle awareness of the instrument’s power, a tingling sensation at the back of their mind that hints at the ancient magic woven into the Songwood.
• Positives: The activation of the Songwood Instrument offers several benefits for both the user and the observers. For the user, the +2 bonus to Performance rolls enhances their ability to captivate an audience, making their music more impactful and memorable. The ability to cast the Charm Person spell once per long rest provides a powerful tool for social interactions, allowing the user to influence others in diplomatic or strategic situations, such as calming a hostile crowd or gaining the trust of a wary NPC. The emotional connection fostered by the instrument can also be a source of inspiration, helping the user channel their own feelings into their performance, potentially leading to moments of profound artistry. For observers, the experience is often uplifting and inspiring, as the enchanting melodies evoke feelings of joy, peace, or nostalgia. The music can create a shared emotional experience, fostering a sense of unity among listeners, which is particularly valuable in social or ceremonial settings. The cultural significance of the Songwood Instrument also elevates the user’s status in the eyes of those who recognize its rarity, potentially opening doors to new opportunities or alliances.
• Negatives: Despite its many benefits, the activation of the Songwood Instrument comes with potential drawbacks. For the user, the emotional intensity of the experience can be overwhelming, especially if they’re playing a particularly evocative piece. The deep connection to the instrument might amplify their own negative emotions, such as sorrow or anger, which could bleed into the performance and affect the audience in unintended ways. The Charm Person spell, while powerful, can also backfire—those who resist the spell or recognize its use might become suspicious or hostile, viewing the user as manipulative. Additionally, the glowing runes and ethereal melodies can draw unwanted attention, making it difficult for the user to remain discreet in situations where subtlety is required. For observers, the emotional pull of the music can be disorienting, especially for those with strong wills who resist the Charm Person spell. They might feel a sense of unease or violation as the magic attempts to influence their emotions, leading to distrust or resentment toward the user. In some cases, the intense sensory experience might be too much for sensitive individuals, causing discomfort or even temporary disorientation as they struggle to process the flood of emotions and sensations. Finally, the rarity of the Songwood Instrument makes it a target for thieves or collectors, and its activation in public could attract the attention of those who would seek to steal it, putting the user at risk.

Crafting Recipe: Songwood Lute — The Songwood Lute, a magical instrument imbued with the essence of the ancient Songwood groves, is a rare and cherished artifact in the world of Saṃsāra. Crafting such an instrument requires not only skill and precision but also a deep connection to the mystical properties of music and nature. Below is a detailed recipe for recreating a Songwood Lute, outlining the materials, tools, skills, and steps necessary to bring this enchanting item into existence.

• Materials Needed:
  • Songwood Timber: A single, pristine piece of Songwood, harvested from the sacred Songwood groves. This wood is the heart of the instrument, providing its magical resonance and acoustic properties. The piece must be at least three feet long and free of knots or imperfections to ensure the purity of its sound.
  • Ethereal Sap: A small vial of sap collected from the Songwood trees, known for its luminescent quality. This sap is used to infuse the instrument with magical properties, allowing the arcane runes to glow and the enchanting melodies to take effect.
  • Moonlit Silk Strings: Four strands of silk spun by the rare Moonlit Silkworms, which are found only in the groves during a full moon. These strings are essential for producing the lute’s ethereal sound, as they vibrate with a natural harmonic resonance.
  • Starfall Dust: A pinch of dust gathered from a fallen star, often found in the aftermath of a meteor shower in Saṃsāra’s skies. This dust is used to enhance the magical properties of the instrument, giving it the ability to cast the Charm Person spell.
  • Polished River Stones: Two small, smooth stones collected from a river that runs through a magical forest. These stones are used to create tuning pegs, ensuring the lute maintains its pitch even during extended performances.
  • Whispering Vines: A handful of dried vines that grow in the Songwood groves, known for their ability to carry whispers of the wind. These vines are used to bind certain components together, adding a subtle magical connection to the groves.
• Tools Required:
  • Musical Instrument Maker’s Tools: A specialized set of artisan’s tools designed for crafting musical instruments. This includes a fine chisel, a small saw, a carving knife, and a sanding block, all of which must be of high quality to handle the delicate Songwood.
  • Runecarver’s Quill: A quill enchanted with minor magic, used to inscribe the arcane runes onto the lute’s body. The quill must be capable of channeling the Ethereal Sap to ensure the runes glow when the instrument is activated.
  • Alchemical Mortar and Pestle: A small mortar and pestle used to grind the Starfall Dust into a fine powder and mix it with the Ethereal Sap, creating a magical varnish that binds the instrument’s enchantments.
  • Weaver’s Needle: A slender needle used to thread the Moonlit Silk Strings through the lute’s bridge and tuning pegs. The needle must be sharp enough to pierce the Songwood without splintering it.
  • Fire Basin: A small, portable basin used to heat the Ethereal Sap and Starfall Dust mixture, allowing it to meld into a usable varnish. The basin must be able to maintain a low, steady heat to avoid damaging the magical properties of the materials.
  • Binding Cord: A length of sturdy cord used to tie the Whispering Vines into place during the crafting process, ensuring they hold the components together as the lute takes shape.
• Skill Requirements:
  • Proficiency in Performance: The crafter must have a deep understanding of music and performance to ensure the lute’s sound is both beautiful and magical. This skill allows the crafter to test the instrument’s resonance during the crafting process, ensuring it meets the standards of a Songwood Instrument.
  • Proficiency with Musical Instrument Maker’s Tools: Crafting a Songwood Lute requires expertise in the use of artisan’s tools specifically designed for musical instruments. This proficiency ensures the crafter can shape the Songwood and assemble the lute with precision.
  • Arcane Knowledge: A basic understanding of magic is necessary to inscribe the arcane runes and infuse the instrument with the Charm Person spell. The crafter must be able to channel their intent into the runes, ensuring they activate properly when the lute is played.
  • Nature Attunement: The crafter must have a strong connection to nature, particularly to the Songwood groves, to handle the materials without disrupting their magical properties. This attunement allows the crafter to sense the wood’s resonance and ensure the instrument retains its ethereal qualities.
• Crafting Steps:
  • Harvest and Prepare the Songwood: Begin by carefully selecting a piece of Songwood Timber from the sacred groves. This must be done with reverence, as the groves are guarded by ethereal spirits. Once harvested, use the Musical Instrument Maker’s Tools to carve the wood into the body of the lute, shaping it into a teardrop form with a smooth, rounded back. Sand the surface until it is perfectly smooth, ensuring there are no imperfections that could disrupt the sound.
  • Inscribe the Arcane Runes: Using the Runecarver’s Quill, dip the tip into the vial of Ethereal Sap and carefully inscribe a series of arcane runes around the edge of the lute’s body. These runes should form a continuous pattern, with each symbol flowing into the next. Focus your intent on the magic of harmony and enchantment as you work, ensuring the runes will glow and activate when the instrument is played.
  • Craft the Tuning Pegs and Bridge: Take the Polished River Stones and use the carving knife from the Musical Instrument Maker’s Tools to shape them into four small tuning pegs and a bridge. The pegs should be cylindrical with a slight taper, while the bridge should be a thin, curved piece that will support the strings. Smooth the surfaces with the sanding block to ensure they fit snugly into the lute’s body.
  • Prepare the Magical Varnish: In the Alchemical Mortar and Pestle, grind the pinch of Starfall Dust into a fine powder. Add a few drops of Ethereal Sap to the powder and mix until it forms a shimmering paste. Transfer the paste to the Fire Basin and heat it over a low flame, stirring constantly until it becomes a smooth, glowing varnish. This varnish will bind the magical properties of the lute, enabling the Charm Person spell.
  • Apply the Varnish: Once the varnish has cooled slightly but is still liquid, use a soft cloth to apply it to the entire surface of the lute’s body, including the areas with the arcane runes. Ensure the varnish is applied evenly, as any inconsistencies could weaken the magical effects. Allow the varnish to dry completely, which will take several hours. The lute should now have a subtle, luminescent sheen.
  • Attach the Strings: Using the Weaver’s Needle, thread the four Moonlit Silk Strings through the bridge and secure them to the tuning pegs. Start at the bottom of the lute, passing each string over the bridge and winding it around a tuning peg at the top. Tighten the strings gradually, testing the tension by plucking each one to ensure they produce a clear, resonant tone.
  • Bind with Whispering Vines: Take the handful of Whispering Vines and use the Binding Cord to tie them around the neck of the lute, where the body meets the tuning pegs. The vines should be wrapped tightly to reinforce the structure, but not so tightly that they damage the wood. As you tie the vines, whisper a short melody to them, encouraging their magic to harmonize with the lute’s own enchantment.
  • Final Tuning and Testing: Once the lute is fully assembled, tune the Moonlit Silk Strings by adjusting the tuning pegs. Play a simple melody to test the instrument’s sound, ensuring the notes are clear and resonant. As you play, focus on activating the magical properties—watch for the arcane runes to glow and feel for the subtle pulse of the Songwood. If the lute resonates with an ethereal quality and the runes glow softly, the crafting is complete. If not, revisit the rune inscription and varnish application to ensure the magic has been properly infused.

The Songwood Lute, once crafted, will carry the same properties as the original: a +2 bonus to Performance rolls and the ability to cast the Charm Person spell (save DC 12) once per long rest. The process of crafting such an instrument is a labor of love, requiring patience, skill, and a deep appreciation for the magic of music and nature in the world of Saṃsāra.

Tale of Melodya and the First Songwood Lute

In days long faded, when the world of Saṃsāra was yet young and the groves of Songwood whispered secrets to the wind, there came a bard named Melodya. Her voice, it is told, could stir the stones to weep and the rivers to dance, though the ancient words of this tale are broken, their meaning half-lost to the ages, as if scrawled by a trembling hand from a tongue no longer spoken. The story, passed through generations, is the most known of the Songwood Instruments, though its truth is shrouded in the mist of time.

Melodya, a wanderer of great renown, walked the lands with a heart heavy for song. Her fingers knew no lute, her lips no harp, for in those days, the craft of such things was not yet born. She sang to the sky, and the sky wept with her, but her voice alone could not carry the weight of her spirit. One eve, as the moon hung low, its light a silver thread, Melodya strayed into a grove where the trees stood tall, their bark shimmering like the stars. These were the Songwood trees, though she knew them not by name, for the ancient script calls them “Lyrithar,” a word that means both “song” and “eternity” in the forgotten tongue.

The grove was alive, or so the tale claims, with spirits that danced as shadows, their forms like the flicker of a flame. They sang to Melodya, their voices a hum that shook the leaves, and she, entranced, fell to her knees. The spirits, or perhaps the trees themselves, spoke in a language of notes, not words, and bid her take a branch that had fallen, its wood glowing with a light that pulsed like a heartbeat. The ancient text here is marred, but it seems Melodya was given a vision—a craft, a making, a thing to hold the song of the grove.

With hands trembling, Melodya shaped the branch, though the tale does not say how. Perhaps she used a stone, sharp as a blade, or perhaps the spirits guided her, their touch like a breeze that carved the wood. She made a form, round like the moon, with a neck long and slender, and strung it with threads of her own hair, or so the story claims, though some say the threads were spun from the silk of moonlit worms, a detail lost in the translation. When she plucked the strings, the sound was a cry, a wail, a song that tore the veil between worlds. The grove hummed with her, and the spirits danced, their light weaving into the wood, marking it with runes that glowed like fireflies.

Melodya played, and the mountains moved, or so the tale insists, though the word for “move” might also mean “weep” in the ancient tongue. The rivers stilled, the beasts of the wild came to listen, and the hearts of all who heard were bound to her, as if by a spell. The text speaks of a “binding song,” which some now believe was the first use of the Charm Person magic, though the words are unclear, and the meaning might be “song of the heart” or “song of the stars.” Melodya’s music brought peace to the troubled, joy to the sorrowful, and for a time, the world knew harmony.

But the tale does not end in light. Melodya, it is said, grew weary, for the lute’s song was too great for one soul to bear. The spirits of the grove, or perhaps the gods themselves, grew jealous of her power, though the text is broken here, and the word for “jealous” might also mean “fearful.” They came in the night, their forms as shadows, and took the lute from her hands. Melodya wept, her tears falling like rain, and where they touched the earth, new Songwood trees grew, or so the story claims. The lute was hidden, or perhaps destroyed, though some say it waits still in the deepest grove, its strings humming with a song no one can hear.

The ancient text ends with a warning, though the words are faded, their meaning pieced together by scholars. It speaks of the lute’s power, how it can bind hearts but also break them, how its song can heal but also consume. Melodya’s fate is unknown, for the tale ends abruptly, as if the scribe feared to write more. Some say she became a spirit of the grove, her voice the whisper in the leaves, while others claim she wandered until her death, searching for her lost lute.

Moral of the Story: Power of song is great gift, but heavy burden. To wield it is to dance with spirits, and one must tread with care, lest the music take more than it gives.

Suggested conversions to other systems:

Call of Cthulhu (7th Edition)

• High-Level Overview: In Call of Cthulhu, a game focused on investigation, horror, and the cosmic unknown, the Songwood Lute becomes a mystical artifact tied to the Dreamlands or the influence of an Elder God like Nyarlathotep, who might use its enchanting melodies to manipulate mortals. The lute’s ability to charm others fits the game’s themes of mental manipulation and supernatural influence, but its use comes with a risk to the user’s sanity, reflecting the system’s focus on psychological horror. The lute’s magical properties are treated as a Mythos artifact, requiring a Sanity roll to use, and its effects can draw the attention of otherworldly entities.
• Stat Block and Mechanics:
  • Songwood Lute
    • Description: A beautifully crafted lute made from shimmering Songwood, its body inscribed with glowing runes that pulse with an otherworldly light when played. The strings hum with a haunting resonance, as if echoing the songs of a forgotten realm.
    • Skill Requirement: Playing the lute effectively requires a successful Art/Craft (Music) roll (Difficulty: Hard, due to its magical nature).
    • Effect (Enchanting Melodies): Once per day, the user can play the lute to cast a spell equivalent to the Dominate Person spell from the Call of Cthulhu rulebook (p. 246). The target must make a POW roll (Difficulty: Hard) to resist; if they fail, they are charmed for 1D6 hours, treating the user as a trusted friend and following reasonable suggestions.
    • Sanity Cost: Using the lute’s magical effect requires a Sanity roll (1/1D6 loss). If the roll fails, the user glimpses visions of the Songwood groves, where shadowy entities whisper incomprehensible truths, potentially leading to a Bout of Madness (p. 156).
    • Drawback: Each use of the lute’s magical effect has a 5% chance (roll percentile dice) of attracting the attention of a minor Mythos entity, such as a servitor of Nyarlathotep. The entity may manifest within 1D10 days, seeking to claim the lute or manipulate the user.
    • Historical Lore: A successful Cthulhu Mythos roll (Difficulty: Regular) reveals that the Songwood Lute may be linked to the Dreamlands, possibly crafted by an ancient bard who made a pact with a forgotten deity.
  • Balance Notes: The Sanity cost and potential for attracting Mythos entities ensure the lute’s power comes with significant risk, aligning with Call of Cthulhu’s emphasis on danger and consequence. The Hard difficulty for both the Art/Craft roll and the target’s POW roll balances the lute’s powerful charm effect, making it unreliable in high-stakes situations.

Blades in the Dark

• High-Level Overview: Blades in the Dark is a game of daring heists and criminal enterprises in a haunted, industrial city. The Songwood Lute fits into this setting as a rare occult artifact, possibly crafted by a forgotten cult or smuggled into Doskvol from a distant land. Its ability to charm others makes it a valuable tool for social manipulation during scores, such as infiltrating high-society gatherings or swaying a mark. However, its use draws on the city’s ghostly energies, risking supernatural consequences like attracting specters or increasing the crew’s Heat. The lute is treated as a fine item, providing a bonus to certain actions, with its magical effect tied to the game’s stress and trauma mechanics.
• Stat Block and Mechanics:
  • Songwood Lute (Fine Occult Instrument)
    • Description: A lute carved from pale, shimmering Songwood, its surface etched with glowing runes that hum with spectral energy when played. The strings seem to vibrate with a life of their own, producing melodies that tug at the heart.
    • Quality Bonus: As a fine item, the Songwood Lute grants +1d to Sway rolls when used to perform music in social situations, reflecting its superior craftsmanship and enchanting resonance.
    • Special Ability (Enchanting Melodies): Once per score, the user can play the lute to attempt a special action: a 6-tick clock called “Charmed Audience.” Roll Sway (or Attune, if invoking its occult nature) to fill the clock. If successful, one target becomes charmed for the remainder of the score, treating the user as a trusted ally and following reasonable requests. If the roll fails or the clock isn’t filled, the target resists, and the user takes 2 stress from the emotional backlash of the failed magic.
    • Cost: Using the Enchanting Melodies ability increases the crew’s Heat by +1, as the lute’s supernatural resonance echoes through the ghost field, drawing the attention of the Spirit Wardens or local specters.
    • Downtime Use: During downtime, the lute can be played as a Vice (Indulgence) to reduce stress, granting +1d to the roll due to its soothing melodies. However, there’s a 1-in-6 chance (roll a d6) that a specter is drawn to the music, potentially causing a new obstacle for the crew.
    • Load: The Songwood Lute takes 1 load to carry, as it’s a delicate instrument that requires careful handling.
  • Balance Notes: The lute’s +1d to Sway rolls makes it a valuable asset for social-focused characters, but the stress cost and Heat increase for using its magical ability ensure it’s not overused. The risk of attracting specters ties the lute to the game’s supernatural themes, while the downtime use provides a flavorful way to engage with the Vice mechanic, balanced by the potential for complications.

Dungeons & Dragons (5th Edition)

• High-Level Overview: In Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition, a high-fantasy system with a focus on heroic adventures, the Songwood Lute fits seamlessly as a magical instrument for bards or other musically inclined characters. Its properties align with D&D’s magic item framework, providing a bonus to performance checks and the ability to cast a spell, while requiring attunement to balance its power. The lute’s lore ties into the world of Saṃsāra’s high-magic setting, making it a coveted item for adventurers seeking to enhance their social or magical abilities. The item is classified as a Rare magic item, suitable for characters around levels 5-10.
• Stat Block and Mechanics:
  • Songwood Lute
    • Wondrous item, rare (requires attunement by a creature proficient in Performance)
    • This lute, crafted from the shimmering Songwood of ancient groves, glows with arcane runes when played. Its strings hum with an ethereal resonance, capable of weaving enchanting melodies that captivate listeners.
    • Performance Bonus: While attuned to the Songwood Lute, you gain a +2 bonus to Charisma (Performance) checks made to play music or perform.
    • Enchanting Melodies: The lute has 1 charge. As an action, you can expend 1 charge to play a haunting melody, casting the charm person spell (save DC 13) without expending a spell slot. The spell is cast using your spellcasting ability (Charisma if you have no spellcasting ability). The lute regains its charge daily at dawn.
    • Lore: The Songwood Lute is said to have been first crafted by a legendary bard named Melodya, who discovered the magical Songwood groves and used their wood to create instruments of unparalleled beauty. Some say the groves are guarded by fey spirits who bless each lute with a fragment of their magic.
    • Drawback: When you use the lute’s Enchanting Melodies, the glowing runes and ethereal music are noticeable to all creatures within 60 feet, potentially drawing unwanted attention in stealth situations (DM’s discretion).
  • Balance Notes: The Songwood Lute is balanced as a Rare item by requiring attunement, limiting its charm person ability to once per day, and setting a moderate save DC. The +2 bonus to Performance checks is a flavorful benefit that enhances the user’s role as a performer without overshadowing other magic items. The drawback ensures the lute’s use in social or stealth scenarios carries some risk, encouraging strategic play.

Knave (2nd Edition)

• High-Level Overview: Knave 2nd Edition is a lightweight, old-school-inspired system focused on simplicity and exploration, with characters defined by their gear rather than classes. The Songwood Lute fits into this system as a magical item that enhances social interactions and provides a limited-use magical effect, aligning with Knave’s emphasis on items as the primary source of character abilities. The lute’s mechanics are streamlined to fit Knave’s minimalist rules, using the system’s advantage/disadvantage mechanics and inventory slot system to balance its power. The item is suitable for low-to-mid-level play, given its limited charges and potential risks.
• Stat Block and Mechanics:
  • Songwood Lute (Magical Item)
    • Description: A lute carved from pale Songwood, its body etched with glowing runes that shimmer when played. The strings produce an ethereal melody that tugs at the heartstrings of listeners.
    • Slots: The Songwood Lute occupies 2 inventory slots due to its size and delicate nature.
    • Performance Bonus: When making a Charisma check to perform music or entertain, you gain advantage on the roll while using the Songwood Lute.
    • Enchanting Melodies: The lute has 1 charge. As an action, you can expend 1 charge to play a melody that attempts to charm a creature within 30 feet that can hear you. The target must make a Charisma saving throw (DC 12) or be charmed for 1 hour, treating you as a friendly acquaintance and following reasonable requests. The lute regains its charge after a long rest.
    • Risk: When you use the Enchanting Melodies, roll a d6. On a 1, the lute’s magic resonates too strongly, attracting the attention of a nearby creature or spirit (GM’s choice), which arrives within 1d6 minutes.
    • Lore: Legends say the Songwood Lute was crafted from trees in a grove guarded by spirits, its wood infused with the magic of song. Bards who wield it are said to carry the favor of these spirits, though some whisper the spirits may come to reclaim their gift.
  • Balance Notes: The Songwood Lute’s 2-slot requirement ensures it takes up valuable inventory space, a key balancing factor in Knave. The advantage on Charisma checks for performance is a significant but situational benefit, while the single-use charm effect is balanced by the low DC and the risk of attracting unwanted attention. This makes the lute a powerful tool for social encounters but encourages careful use in a system where survival often depends on resource management.

Fate Core System

• High-Level Overview: Fate Core System is a narrative-driven game that emphasizes character aspects, stunts, and flexible mechanics to tell cinematic stories. In this system, the Songwood Lute is a magical artifact that enhances a character’s musical abilities and provides a narrative tool for social influence, fitting the game’s focus on drama and character-driven storytelling. The lute is represented as an extra with aspects and stunts, allowing it to influence the story through Fate’s mechanics of invoking aspects and creating advantages. Its magical properties are balanced by the use of Fate points and potential consequences, ensuring it doesn’t overshadow other character abilities.
• Stat Block and Mechanics:
  • Songwood Lute (Extra)
    • Permission: The character must have a High Concept or Aspect related to music or magic (e.g., “Wandering Bard of Saṃsāra” or “Bearer of Enchanted Melodies”).
    • Cost: The Songwood Lute requires 1 refresh to acquire, reflecting its power as a magical item.
    • Aspects:
      • Ethereal Songwood Resonance: Represents the lute’s magical connection to the Songwood groves, which can be invoked to enhance musical performances or magical effects.
      • Hauntingly Captivating: Reflects the lute’s ability to charm others, but can be compelled to draw unwanted attention from those who recognize its power or are resistant to its magic.
    • Stunt: Enchanting Melodies
      • Once per session, you can spend a Fate point to play the Songwood Lute and create an advantage called Charmed Listener on a target who can hear you. Roll Performance against the target’s Will (Difficulty: Fair, +2). If you succeed, the target gains the Charmed Listener aspect for the scene, treating you as a trusted friend and following reasonable suggestions. If you succeed with style, the aspect lasts until the end of the session. If you fail, the target resists, and the GM may compel the lute’s Hauntingly Captivating aspect to create a complication, such as attracting a jealous rival or a magical entity drawn to the lute’s song.
      • Narrative Effect: The lute’s glowing runes and ethereal melodies can be used to set the tone of a scene, such as calming a tense negotiation or inspiring allies. The GM may allow the player to invoke the lute’s Ethereal Songwood Resonance aspect to gain a +2 bonus on Performance rolls to influence a crowd, at the cost of a Fate point.
  • Balance Notes: The Songwood Lute’s power is balanced by its refresh cost and the need to spend Fate points to use its magical effect, ensuring it doesn’t dominate play. The potential for compels tied to its Hauntingly Captivating aspect introduces narrative risks, such as drawing unwanted attention, which aligns with Fate’s focus on drama and consequences. The stunt’s once-per-session limit prevents overuse, while the narrative flexibility of aspects allows the lute to shine in social and creative situations.

Numenera (Cypher System)

• High-Level Overview: Numenera, using the Cypher System, is set in a far-future world where ancient technology (numenera) is indistinguishable from magic. The Songwood Lute is adapted as a numenera artifact, a relic from a past civilization that harnessed bioengineered wood to create harmonic resonance with psychoactive properties. Its ability to charm others fits Numenera’s themes of strange, wondrous technology, but its use comes with a depletion roll, reflecting the system’s focus on limited-use items. The lute’s effects are tied to the Cypher System’s task resolution mechanics, with adjustments to ensure it integrates into the game’s high-weird setting.
• Stat Block and Mechanics:
  • Songwood Lute (Artifact)
    • Level: 4
    • Form: A lute crafted from pale, organic wood that shimmers with a faint bioluminescence. Its surface is etched with intricate patterns that glow softly when played, and its strings hum with a resonance that feels almost alive.
    • Effect: When played, the Songwood Lute grants an asset (lowering the difficulty by one step) on tasks to perform music or entertain, reflecting its superior craftsmanship and harmonic properties.
    • Special Ability (Enchanting Melodies): As an action, the user can play the lute to attempt to charm a creature within short range (30 feet) that can hear the music. The user makes a Level 4 Intellect task roll (Difficulty 4, target number 12). If successful, the target is charmed for 1 hour, treating the user as a trusted ally and following reasonable requests (as per the “Charmed” condition, Cypher System Rulebook, p. 413). The difficulty is increased by one step (to Difficulty 5, target number 15) if the target is hostile or actively resisting. After using this ability, roll a d20 for depletion.
    • Depletion: 1 in 20 (roll a d20; on a 1, the lute’s strings snap or its wood warps, rendering it unusable until repaired with a numenera crafting task, Difficulty 4).
    • Lore: The Songwood Lute may have been created by a civilization that used bioengineered plants to manipulate emotions through sound waves. Some believe the wood is still alive, drawing energy from the user’s own psyche to power its effects.
  • Balance Notes: The Songwood Lute’s Level 4 status makes it a moderately powerful artifact, suitable for mid-tier play in Numenera. The asset on performance tasks provides a consistent benefit, while the charm effect’s difficulty ensures it’s not guaranteed to succeed, especially against tougher foes. The depletion roll introduces a risk of the item becoming unusable, aligning with the Cypher System’s emphasis on limited-use numenera. The lore ties the lute to Numenera’s setting, making it a flavorful addition without overpowering the game’s focus on exploration and discovery.

Pathfinder (2nd Edition)

• High-Level Overview: Pathfinder 2nd Edition is a high-fantasy system with detailed mechanics for magic items, character progression, and tactical combat. The Songwood Lute is adapted as a magical instrument, classified as a Level 5 item to fit its rarity and power, suitable for characters around levels 4-6. Its properties enhance performance skills and provide a limited-use magical effect, aligning with Pathfinder’s structured magic item system. The lute’s charm ability is tied to the system’s spell mechanics, with a focus on balance through limited uses, a moderate DC, and potential drawbacks to prevent overuse in social encounters.
• Stat Block and Mechanics:
  • Songwood Lute
    • Item 5
    • Price: 150 gp
    • Bulk: 1
    • Hands: 2
    • Traits: Magical, Enchantment
    • Description: This lute, carved from the shimmering Songwood of ancient groves, glows with arcane runes when played. Its strings produce an ethereal melody that captivates listeners, weaving magic into every note.
    • Performance Bonus: The Songwood Lute grants a +1 item bonus to Performance checks made to play music or entertain.
    • Activate [Two Actions] (auditory, enchantment, mental); Frequency once per day; Effect You play a haunting melody, casting a 1st-level charm spell (DC 18 Will save) on a creature within 30 feet that can hear you. The spell is cast using your Charisma modifier and proficiency bonus (treat as a spell attack roll if untrained in spellcasting). If the target fails its save, it is charmed for 1 minute, treating you as a friendly acquaintance and following reasonable requests (as per the charm spell, Core Rulebook, p. 322). On a critical failure, the duration extends to 1 hour.
    • Drawback: When you activate the lute, its glowing runes and ethereal music are noticeable to all creatures within 60 feet, potentially revealing your position or drawing attention in stealth situations (GM’s discretion).
    • Craft Requirements: Craft Magic Arms and Armor feat, access to Songwood, and the ability to cast charm.
  • Balance Notes: The Songwood Lute’s Level 5 status and 150 gp price make it a valuable but accessible item for mid-level characters. The +1 item bonus to Performance checks is a modest boost, while the once-per-day charm spell is balanced by its low duration (1 minute, or 1 hour on a critical failure) and moderate DC. The drawback ensures the lute’s use carries some risk in stealth or social scenarios, encouraging strategic play. The item fits Pathfinder’s high-magic setting while adhering to its structured magic item rules.

Savage Worlds (Adventure Edition)

• High-Level Overview: Savage Worlds Adventure Edition is a fast-paced, pulpy system that emphasizes action, versatility, and cinematic gameplay. The Songwood Lute is adapted as a magical item that enhances a character’s performance abilities and provides a charm effect, fitting the game’s focus on dramatic moments and social interactions. Its mechanics are tied to Savage Worlds’ trait tests and Power Points, with a minor drawback to balance its power. The lute is suitable for Novice or Seasoned characters, providing a flavorful tool for social encounters without overshadowing combat-focused abilities.
• Stat Block and Mechanics:
  • Songwood Lute (Magical Item)
    • Weight: 2
    • Cost: 1,000 credits (or equivalent in Saṃsāra’s currency)
    • Description: A lute crafted from pale Songwood, its body etched with glowing runes that shimmer when played. The strings hum with an ethereal resonance, capable of weaving enchanting melodies that sway the hearts of listeners.
    • Performance Bonus: The Songwood Lute grants a +1 bonus to Performance rolls made to play music or entertain, reflecting its superior craftsmanship and magical resonance.
    • Power: Enchanting Melodies
    • Power Points: 2
    • Range: Smarts (typically 6”)
    • Duration: 5 rounds
    • Trappings: Ethereal melodies that tug at the heartstrings, accompanied by glowing runes on the lute.
    • Effect: As an action, the user plays the lute to cast the puppet power (Savage Worlds Adventure Edition, p. 165) on a target within range that can hear the music. Make a Performance roll opposed by the target’s Spirit. On a success, the target is charmed, treating the user as a trusted friend and following reasonable requests for the duration. On a raise, the target also takes a -2 penalty to Spirit rolls to resist further commands. If the roll fails, the target resists, and the user suffers a level of Fatigue from the emotional backlash of the failed magic (recovers after 1 hour).
    • Limit: The lute can only be used to cast this power once per day, as its magic needs time to recharge.
    • Drawback: Using the Enchanting Melodies power causes the lute’s runes to glow brightly, imposing a -2 penalty to Stealth rolls for the next 10 minutes as the light and music draw attention.
  • Balance Notes: The Songwood Lute’s +1 bonus to Performance rolls provides a small but consistent benefit, while the puppet power (a charm effect) is balanced by its 2 Power Point cost, once-per-day limit, and opposed roll mechanic. The Fatigue drawback on a failed roll introduces a risk, and the Stealth penalty ensures the lute’s use in social or stealth scenarios carries consequences, aligning with Savage Worlds’ focus on fast, dramatic play. The item’s cost makes it a significant investment for early characters, fitting its rarity in the world of Saṃsāra.

Shadowrun (6th Edition)

• High-Level Overview: Shadowrun 6th Edition is a cyberpunk-fantasy game set in a dystopian future where magic and technology coexist. The Songwood Lute is adapted as a magical focus, a rare artifact from the Sixth World’s awakened forests, possibly tied to a forgotten elven tradition. Its ability to charm others fits Shadowrun’s blend of magic and social manipulation, making it a valuable tool for face characters or mages. The lute’s mechanics are tied to the system’s magic and social test frameworks, with a focus on Essence cost and potential drain to balance its power, reflecting the game’s emphasis on the risks of magic use.
• Stat Block and Mechanics:
  • Songwood Lute (Magical Focus)
    • Type: Enchanting Focus (Force 3)
    • Availability: 12R
    • Cost: 15,000 nuyen
    • Essence Cost: 0.5 (due to its organic, magical nature, it has a minimal impact on Essence compared to cyberware)
    • Description: A lute crafted from pale, bioluminescent Songwood, its body etched with glowing runes that pulse with mana when played. The strings hum with a resonance that feels alive, capable of weaving enchanting melodies.
    • Effect (Performance Bonus): The Songwood Lute grants +2 dice to Con (Performance) tests when used to play music or entertain, reflecting its magical resonance.
    • Enchanting Melodies: As an action, the user can play the lute to cast a spell equivalent to the Influence spell (Shadowrun 6th Edition, p. 135). The user makes a Sorcery + Magic test (Force 3, threshold 3) opposed by the target’s Willpower + Intuition. If successful, the target is charmed for 1 minute, treating the user as a trusted ally and following a single reasonable suggestion (e.g., “trust me” or “leave this area”). The user must resist 3 Drain (Willpower + Charisma), taking Stun damage if they fail.
    • Drawback: Using the Enchanting Melodies ability causes the lute’s runes to glow brightly, imposing a -2 dice penalty to Stealth tests for the next 10 minutes as the light and music draw attention. Additionally, each use has a 1-in-6 chance (roll a d6) of attracting astral attention, potentially drawing a spirit or watcher to investigate within 1d6 minutes.
    • Lore: The Songwood Lute is rumored to have been crafted by an ancient elven bard who drew mana from awakened groves. Some shadowrunners believe it’s tied to the Tir Tairngire, though its origins are shrouded in mystery.
  • Balance Notes: The Songwood Lute’s Force 3 rating and Essence cost make it a significant investment for a magical character, balanced by the Drain cost of its charm effect and the risk of attracting astral attention. The +2 dice to Con (Performance) tests provides a consistent benefit for social characters, while the Stealth penalty and potential for complications ensure its use carries risks, fitting Shadowrun’s high-stakes tone.

Starfinder (1st Edition)

• High-Level Overview: Starfinder is a science-fantasy game set in a futuristic universe with magic and technology intertwined. The Songwood Lute is adapted as a hybrid item, blending organic magic with advanced technology, possibly a relic from a lost world like Saṃsāra that has been rediscovered in the Pact Worlds. Its charm ability fits Starfinder’s mix of social and magical mechanics, making it a useful tool for diplomats or mystics. The lute’s mechanics are tied to the system’s skill and spellcasting frameworks, with charges and a recharge cost to balance its power, reflecting Starfinder’s focus on resource management.
• Stat Block and Mechanics:
  • Songwood Lute (Hybrid Item)
    • Level: 5
    • Price: 3,000 credits
    • Bulk: 1
    • Hands: 2
    • Capacity: 10 charges
    • Usage: 2 charges per use
    • Description: A lute crafted from pale, organic Songwood, its body etched with glowing runes that shimmer with a mix of magical and technological energy. The strings hum with a resonance that blends harmonic frequencies with subtle psychic waves.
    • Performance Bonus: The Songwood Lute grants a +2 item bonus to Culture checks made to perform music or entertain, reflecting its hybrid design and enchanting resonance.
    • Enchanting Melodies: As a standard action, the user can expend 2 charges to play the lute and cast charm person (Starfinder Core Rulebook, p. 341) as a 1st-level spell (DC 14 Will save). The spell is cast using the user’s key ability score (Charisma if no spellcasting ability). If the target fails its save, it is charmed for 1 hour, treating the user as a friendly acquaintance and following reasonable requests.
    • Recharge: The lute can be recharged by expending 1 Resolve Point during a 10-minute rest, restoring 5 charges, as the user attunes their psychic energy to the lute’s hybrid matrix.
    • Drawback: When the Enchanting Melodies ability is used, the lute’s runes glow brightly, imposing a -2 penalty to Stealth checks for the next 10 minutes as the light and music draw attention.
    • Lore: The Songwood Lute is believed to be a relic from a lost world, its wood infused with nanites that amplify its magical properties. Some scholars in the Pact Worlds speculate it was created by a civilization that blended biotech with arcane arts.
  • Balance Notes: The Songwood Lute’s Level 5 status and 3,000 credit price make it a mid-tier item, suitable for characters around levels 4-6. The +2 bonus to Culture checks is a modest boost, while the charm person effect is balanced by its charge cost and moderate DC. The Resolve Point cost to recharge ensures the lute’s use is a strategic choice, and the Stealth penalty introduces a risk in stealth scenarios, fitting Starfinder’s blend of magic and technology.

Traveller (2nd Edition by Mongoose Publishing)

• High-Level Overview: Traveller 2nd Edition is a science-fiction game focused on exploration, trade, and survival in a vast universe. The Songwood Lute is adapted as a psionic artifact, a rare item from a primitive world like Saṃsāra that has been discovered by interstellar travelers. Its charm ability is reimagined as a psionic effect, fitting Traveller’s psionics system, and its performance bonus enhances social interactions, making it a valuable tool for diplomats or traders. The lute’s mechanics are tied to the system’s skill and psionics frameworks, with a PSI point cost and potential risks to balance its power.
• Stat Block and Mechanics:
  • Songwood Lute (Psionic Artifact)
    • Tech Level: 0 (Primitive, with psionic properties)
    • Cost: Cr10,000
    • Weight: 1 kg
    • Description: A lute crafted from pale, organic wood, its body etched with glowing runes that shimmer with psionic energy when played. The strings hum with a resonance that seems to influence the minds of listeners.
    • Performance Bonus: The Songwood Lute grants a +1 DM to Carouse or Art (Music) checks made to perform music or entertain, reflecting its superior craftsmanship and harmonic resonance.
    • Psionic Effect (Enchanting Melodies): As an action, the user can play the lute to activate a psionic effect equivalent to the Telepathy: Suggestion ability (Traveller Core Rulebook 2022 Update, p. 162). The user must spend 2 PSI points and make a PSI + Telepathy check (Difficulty 8+). If successful, the target (within 10 meters and able to hear the music) must make an INT check (Difficulty 8+). If the target fails, they are charmed for 1 minute, treating the user as a trusted friend and following a single reasonable suggestion (e.g., “trust me” or “sign this contract”).
    • Drawback: Using the Enchanting Melodies ability causes the lute’s runes to glow brightly, imposing a -1 DM to Stealth checks for the next 10 minutes as the light and music draw attention. Additionally, each use has a 1-in-6 chance (roll a d6) of causing a psionic feedback loop, inflicting 1d6 damage to the user’s END (no armor applies).
    • Lore: The Songwood Lute is a relic from a primitive world, its wood infused with psionic crystals that amplify the user’s mental energy. Some Travellers believe it was created by a pre-spacefaring culture that used music to influence minds.
  • Balance Notes: The Songwood Lute’s psionic effect is balanced by its PSI point cost and the opposed INT check, ensuring it’s not guaranteed to succeed. The +1 DM to Carouse or Art (Music) checks provides a small but consistent benefit, while the Stealth penalty and potential for psionic feedback introduce risks, fitting Traveller’s focus on survival and resource management. The high cost reflects its rarity in a sci-fi setting, making it a significant investment for a character.

Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay (4th Edition)

• High-Level Overview: Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay 4th Edition is a grim, low-fantasy game set in a dark, chaotic world where magic is dangerous and often tied to the Ruinous Powers. The Songwood Lute is adapted as a magical artifact, possibly blessed by a forgotten forest deity or tainted by the touch of Chaos, fitting the game’s themes of perilous magic and moral ambiguity. Its charm ability is treated as a minor spell, with a risk of corruption to balance its power, reflecting the system’s focus on the dangers of magic. The lute’s mechanics are tied to the system’s skill and magic frameworks, with adjustments to ensure it fits the gritty tone of the Warhammer world.
• Stat Block and Mechanics:
  • Songwood Lute (Magical Artifact)
    • Value: 50 GC
    • Encumbrance: 1
    • Availability: Rare
    • Description: A lute crafted from pale, shimmering Songwood, its body etched with glowing runes that pulse with an eerie light when played. The strings hum with a resonance that feels both beautiful and unsettling, as if whispering secrets of the forest.
    • Performance Bonus: The Songwood Lute grants a +10 bonus to Charm (Music) or Perform (Music) tests, reflecting its magical resonance and superior craftsmanship.
    • Enchanting Melodies (Minor Spell): As an action, the user can play the lute to cast a spell equivalent to the Bewitch talent (WFRP Core Rulebook, p. 149). The user makes a Channelling (Aethyr) test (or Fellowship if untrained in magic) against a Difficulty of Average (+20). If successful, the target (within 10 yards and able to hear the music) must make a Cool test (Difficulty Average, +20). If the target fails, they gain the Charmed condition for 1 minute, treating the user as a trusted friend and following reasonable requests.
    • Corruption Risk: Each time the Enchanting Melodies ability is used, the user must make a Corruption test (Cool, Difficulty Average, +20). If they fail, they gain 1 Corruption point as the lute’s magic whispers temptations of Chaos, potentially drawing the attention of dark forces.
    • Drawback: The lute’s glowing runes and ethereal music are noticeable to all within 20 yards, imposing a -10 penalty to Stealth tests for the next 10 minutes as the light and sound draw attention.
    • Lore: The Songwood Lute is said to have been crafted by a wood elf bard who made a pact with a forest spirit, though some whisper the spirit was a daemon in disguise. Its melodies are both beautiful and dangerous, capable of swaying hearts but also attracting the gaze of Chaos.
  • Balance Notes: The Songwood Lute’s +10 bonus to Charm (Music) or Perform (Music) tests provides a significant but situational benefit, while the Bewitch effect is balanced by the opposed Cool test and the Corruption risk, ensuring its use carries consequences in line with WFRP’s grim tone. The Stealth penalty introduces a tactical risk, and the high value and rarity make the lute a prized but dangerous possession in the Warhammer world.