Wondrous item, uncommon (requires attunement)
Shapechanger. While wearing this hat, you can cast the alter self (appearance only) spell. The spell ends if the mask is removed. When you cast the spell with this mask, you can have the mask merge with your new face.
Cursed. This mask is cursed. When you die while attuned to the mask, you become cursed you until you are targeted by the remove curse spell or similar magic; parting with the mask fails to end the curse. Whenever you are resurrected while cursed, you randomly change your race (as by the reincarnate spell) and lose all memories of your old life.
Wondrous item, rare (requires attunement)
Shapechanger. While wearing this hat, you can cast the alter self (appearance only) spell without requiring concentration. The spell ends if the mask is removed or you use a bonus action to end it. When you cast the spell with this mask, you can have the mask merge with your new face.
Mind Reader. As an action, you can magically read the surface thoughts of one creature with an Intelligence score of 4 or higher within 30 feet of you. You only gain a glimpse of the surface thoughts the creature is thinking about in that moment. Once you used this ability, you can’t target the same creature again for 24 hours.
Cursed. This mask is cursed. When you die while attuned to the mask, you become cursed you until you are targeted by the remove curse spell or similar magic; parting with the mask fails to end the curse. Whenever you are resurrected while cursed, you randomly change your race (as by the reincarnate spell) and lose all memories of your old life.
Using Evolving Items
Evolving items can be used as standard magic items—the GM simply determines the rarity at which the item is found. However, when used as evolving items, they typically start at their lowest stage and grow in power over time. The GM decides the conditions for their evolution, allowing for organic progression tied to the story and the characters’ actions. Those conditions could be something like:
- Character Growth. Reaching a specific character level, class level, or proficiency milestone.
- Arcane Empowerment. Enhancing the item through crafting, rituals, or materials obtained via quests or trade.
- Attunement Over Time. Gaining deeper attunement by wielding the item for an extended period or completing a major storyline.
- Thematic Achievements. Fulfilling tasks or trials related to the item’s nature or using the item in a defining moment.
- Divine or Infernal Favor. Gaining recognition from deities, spirits, or other powerful entities tied to the item.
- Environmental Influence. The item changes when exposed to specific locations, celestial events, or magical anomalies (e.g., bathed in moonlight, struck by lightning).
By using evolving items, the GM can weave them into the story, making them feel personal and rewarding as they develop alongside the characters.