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Book

Book

Weight: 5 lb.
Cost: 25 GP
Category: Writing & Communication
Function: +5 bonus to knowledge checks

Description​

A bound collection of written pages containing knowledge, stories, or information on specific subjects. Books are valuable repositories of learning that can provide detailed information about topics ranging from history and magic to practical skills and scholarly research.

Usage Instructions​

Research: Spend time reading to gain knowledge about the book's subject matter.

Reference: Consult during relevant situations to gain insight or confirm information.

Game Mechanics: Provides a +5 bonus to Intelligence checks related to the book's subject when consulted.

Knowledge Applications​

  • Historical Research: Learn about past events, civilizations, and important figures
  • Magical Studies: Understand spells, magical theory, and arcane practices
  • Natural Sciences: Study plants, animals, minerals, and natural phenomena
  • Technical Skills: Master crafting techniques, engineering, and specialized trades
  • Cultural Information: Learn languages, customs, and social practices

Book Categories​

Academic Texts: Scholarly works on specific subjects with detailed analysis Historical Chronicles: Records of past events, wars, and political developments Magical Treatises: Theoretical and practical works on arcane arts Technical Manuals: Instruction guides for crafts, skills, and procedures Literary Works: Stories, poetry, and cultural narratives

Quality Variations​

Common Book (25 GP): Basic information, general knowledge Scholarly Tome (100 GP): Detailed academic work, +7 bonus Masterwork Volume (500 GP): Comprehensive authority, +10 bonus Ancient Codex (1000+ GP): Rare knowledge, unique information

Tactical Considerations​

Advantages:

  • Provides mechanical bonus to knowledge checks
  • Contains valuable information unavailable elsewhere
  • Can be consulted repeatedly
  • Valuable trade commodity
  • Demonstrates education and status

Limitations:

  • Heavy and bulky to transport
  • Vulnerable to damage from moisture and fire
  • Expensive investment
  • Requires literacy to use effectively
  • Information may become outdated

Specialized Applications​

Spell Research: Magic books aid in learning new spells Investigation: Historical books provide background for mysteries Diplomacy: Cultural books help understand foreign customs Crafting: Technical manuals improve skill checks Navigation: Geographic books assist with travel planning

Subject Examples​

"Herbalism of the Northern Kingdoms": +5 to Nature checks about plants "History of the Dragon Wars": +5 to History checks about that period "Principles of Arcane Theory": +5 to Arcana checks about magic "Engineering Marvels": +5 to Investigation checks about constructions "Customs of Foreign Lands": +5 to Insight checks about cultures

Preservation and Care​

Moisture Protection: Keep dry to prevent page damage and mold Temperature Control: Avoid extreme heat or cold that can damage binding Careful Handling: Turn pages gently to prevent tearing Proper Storage: Store upright or flat to maintain spine integrity Cleaning: Remove dust and debris that can damage pages over time

Alternative Uses​

  • Trade Goods: Valuable items for scholarly communities
  • Gifts: Impressive presents for educated individuals
  • Disguise Props: Appear scholarly or educated
  • Fire Starter: Emergency fuel (destroys the book)
  • Hidden Storage: Hollow out pages for secret compartments