Wondrous item, rarity varies
This crystal has a strong affinity for magic. Its rarity determines up to which spell level it can be used (see the table below) in the following ways:
Absorb. You can use an action to absorb the innate magic of the crystal to regain a spell slot.
Empower. When you cast a spell, you can use this crystal to replace any material components that aren’t consumed. Further, when you do so the spell is upcast by one level.
Store. You can use an action to store a spell in the crystal. To do so, you cast a spell on the crystal with the intention to store it. The spell must have casting time of an action, require no concentration, and a duration of instantaneous. Afterwards a creature can take an action to cast the spell from the crystal.
After the crystal has been used, it shatters and is destroyed.
Four types of spell crystals are known to exist. The crystal’s rarity determines the purity of a crystal. The GM chooses the crystal’s rarity or determines it randomly. The GM can also determine that there is already a spell stored in the crystal. In that case, the crystal can only be used in that way and an identify spell reveals this and the stored spell’s information.
| D4 | RARITY | MAX. SPELL LEVEL |
|---|---|---|
|
1 |
Uncommon |
3 |
|
2 |
Rare |
5 |
|
3 |
Very Rare |
7 |
|
4 |
Legendary |
9 |
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.