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Paper

Paper

Category: Writing & Communication
Weight: — (negligible)
Cost: 2 SP per sheet
Function: 250 words per sheet

Description​

Paper is a writing material made from processed plant fibers, typically wood pulp or rags. It provides a smooth, consistent surface for writing and is generally of higher quality than parchment. Each sheet can accommodate approximately 250 words of normal-sized text.

Writing Properties​

Capacity:

  • 250 words per sheet with standard handwriting
  • More text possible with smaller script
  • Can accommodate drawings, maps, or diagrams
  • Both sides usable for maximum efficiency

Quality Characteristics:

  • Smooth surface ideal for ink and quill
  • Consistent thickness and texture
  • Good ink absorption without bleeding
  • Clean, professional appearance

Practical Applications​

Documentation:

  • Official correspondence and contracts
  • Record keeping and note taking
  • Copying important documents
  • Creating maps and diagrams

Communication:

  • Letters and messages
  • Formal invitations and announcements
  • Legal documents and agreements
  • Academic papers and research

Advantages Over Parchment​

Cost Efficiency:

  • Significantly cheaper than parchment (2 SP vs 1 GP)
  • More economical for bulk writing needs
  • Better value for everyday documentation
  • Allows for more extensive note-taking

Writing Quality:

  • Smoother surface for easier writing
  • Better ink flow and consistency
  • Less likely to tear during writing
  • More uniform appearance

Tactical Applications​

Information Warfare:

  • Creating false documents or orders
  • Copying enemy intelligence
  • Leaving misleading information for pursuers
  • Documenting enemy positions and movements

Communication Networks:

  • Establishing message networks between locations
  • Creating coded communications
  • Distributing information to allies
  • Coordinating group activities

Alternative Uses​

Practical Utility:

  • Wrapping small objects for protection
  • Creating paper boats for water crossing tests
  • Fire starting material in emergencies
  • Temporary bandages for minor wounds

Creative Applications:

  • Origami for entertainment or gifts
  • Paper airplane messages
  • Temporary patches for small holes
  • Crafting materials for various projects

Storage and Preservation​

Proper Care:

  • Keep dry to prevent water damage
  • Store flat to avoid creases and folds
  • Protect from direct sunlight to prevent yellowing
  • Use protective covers or cases for important documents

Environmental Concerns:

  • Susceptible to moisture and humidity
  • Can be damaged by extreme temperatures
  • Vulnerable to insects and rodents
  • Degrades faster than parchment over time

Economic Considerations​

Value Proposition:

  • Excellent cost-to-utility ratio
  • Widely available in civilized areas
  • Bulk purchasing reduces per-sheet cost
  • Good investment for scholarly or administrative characters

Market Availability:

  • Common in cities and towns
  • May be scarce in frontier areas
  • Quality varies by region and manufacturer
  • Specialty papers available for premium prices

Professional Applications​

Academic Use:

  • Research notes and documentation
  • Copying spells and formulas
  • Creating reference materials
  • Student assignments and exercises

Commercial Applications:

  • Business correspondence
  • Inventory records and accounting
  • Contracts and agreements
  • Advertising and promotional materials

Quality Variations​

Standard Grades:

  • Common Paper: Basic quality for everyday use
  • Fine Paper: Higher quality for important documents
  • Specialty Paper: Waterproof, colored, or textured varieties
  • Foolscap: Large format for maps and detailed drawings

Writing Implements​

Compatible Tools:

  • Ink and quill for formal writing
  • Ink pen for convenient use
  • Charcoal or chalk for temporary notes
  • Various inks for different purposes

Cultural Significance​

Social Status:

  • Use of paper indicates literacy and education
  • Quality of paper reflects economic status
  • Formal documents require appropriate paper grades
  • Regional preferences for paper types

Regional Variations:

  • Different manufacturing techniques by region
  • Local materials affect paper characteristics
  • Cultural preferences for paper colors or textures
  • Trade routes influence availability and cost

Limitations and Considerations​

Durability Issues:

  • Less durable than parchment for long-term storage
  • Easily damaged by water or fire
  • Tears more easily than other writing materials
  • Fades over time, especially in sunlight

Environmental Sensitivity:

  • Performs poorly in wet conditions
  • Cold temperatures can make paper brittle
  • High humidity causes warping and mold
  • Extreme heat can cause yellowing or burning

Security Considerations​

Document Protection:

  • Important papers should be copied
  • Use waterproof containers for valuable documents
  • Consider magical protection for critical information
  • Establish backup copies in secure locations

Information Security:

  • Paper can be easily copied or forged
  • Sensitive information requires careful handling
  • Consider using codes or ciphers for secret messages
  • Destroy sensitive documents completely when no longer needed

Specialized Uses​

Magical Applications:

  • Component in certain spell preparations
  • Substrate for magical scrolls (with proper preparation)
  • Temporary spell formula notation
  • Research documentation for magical studies

Adventure Utility:

  • Trail markers and navigation aids
  • Emergency signaling devices
  • Inventory tracking and resource management
  • Character development and story documentation