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Orb

Orb

Category: Spellcasting Focus
Weight: 3 lb.
Cost: 20 GP
Classes: Sorcerer, Warlock, Wizard

Description​

An orb is a sphere of polished crystal, stone, or metal used as a spellcasting focus. Typically 3-4 inches in diameter, orbs are often carved with mystical symbols or contain swirling magical energy within their core.

Usage​

Spellcasting Focus: You can use an orb as a spellcasting focus for your Sorcerer, Warlock, or Wizard spells. When casting a spell with an orb as your focus, you can perform the somatic components of the spell with the same hand that holds the orb.

Material Components: The orb replaces any material component that doesn't have a cost and isn't consumed by the spell.

Focus Benefits​

Somatic Integration:

  • Cast spells with somatic components while holding the orb
  • No need to have a free hand for most spells
  • Maintains weapon/shield in other hand if needed
  • Streamlines spellcasting in combat

Magical Channeling:

  • Focuses and amplifies magical energy
  • Provides stable platform for spell formulae
  • Traditional tool of accomplished spellcasters
  • Enhances concentration and spell precision

Orb Materials​

Crystal Orbs:

  • Most common and versatile
  • Clear or colored crystal spheres
  • Good magical conductivity
  • Often contain internal inclusions

Stone Orbs:

  • Carved from marble, onyx, or other stones
  • Durable and weather-resistant
  • May feature carved mystical symbols
  • Preferred by earth-focused casters

Metal Orbs:

  • Forged from precious metals
  • Often hollow with internal chambers
  • Can be engraved with spell formulae
  • More expensive but highly durable

Customization​

Personal Touches:

  • Engrave personal symbols or names
  • Add leather wrappings for better grip
  • Attach chains or straps for security
  • Embed gemstones for aesthetic appeal

Magical Enhancement:

  • Some orbs can be enchanted for additional properties
  • Higher-level foci may provide spell bonuses
  • Specialized orbs for particular schools of magic
  • Artifact orbs with legendary properties

Practical Considerations​

Carrying Methods:

  • Small enough to hold comfortably in one hand
  • Can be stored in belt pouches when not in use
  • Some have built-in clips or attachment points
  • Delicate items requiring careful handling

Combat Usage:

  • Allows spellcasting while maintaining defensive options
  • Can be used as improvised weapon if necessary
  • Visible to enemies as a magical threat
  • May be targeted for disarming attempts