You, Your Tools, Your Legacy

In the vast world of Ertha, a fighter’s success often hinges on the tools at their disposal. Whether crafted by the master artisans of House Gravan-Myrwinia or improvised in the heat of battle, every piece of equipment tells a story. The Artisans Guild teaches that the best tool is the one wielded with confidence and knowledge—whether forged in fire, carved from enchanted wood, or drawn from within oneself.

But what happens when a character finds themselves stripped of their finely honed weapons and enchanted armor? The answer lies not in what they lack but in what remains: their own resourcefulness.

Tools of the Self

The most underestimated weapon is the body itself. A fighter’s fists can become hammers, their feet maces, and their arms grappling tools. Even unarmored, a clever combatant can turn disadvantage into an opportunity. Wearing a sturdy vambrace? It can transform a simple block into a strike that leaves a mark. A helmet? It isn’t just protection—it’s a battering ram when a headbutt is called for.

However, the effectiveness of these techniques relies on the armor worn. Heavy plate restricts agility, while lighter gear enables nimble maneuvers. Fighters trained under the Artisans Guild learn how to maximize their equipment’s potential, understanding that even an ordinary shield or gauntlet can become a deadly weapon in the right hands.

Improvisation and Ingenuity

House Gravan-Myrwinia places great emphasis on innovation. Members are taught to craft tools for survival and to see possibilities in the mundane. In Ertha’s perilous landscapes, survival may depend on turning everyday objects into weapons or finding strength in raw materials. The Artisans Guild’s training ensures adventurers can adapt, crafting rudimentary tools or employing their environment to outwit foes.

For instance, an iron pot can become a makeshift shield, and a belt strap can serve as a binding weapon in desperate situations. Even the terrain can be a tool—sand for blinding, rocks for projectiles, or vines for traps. A fighter’s creativity is their greatest asset when the odds seem insurmountable.

Becoming the Beast

For those aligned with House Tamppolam – The Metallurgy Guild, improvisation takes a primal turn. Barbarians, in their infamous berserker rages, abandon traditional weaponry altogether. In these moments, they wield their teeth, nails, and sheer willpower as weapons. The raw ferocity of a berserker, biting and clawing at enemies, transforms pain into a tool of domination.

This approach mirrors the primal lessons taught by House Tamppolam: sometimes, raw strength and instinct can outperform the most finely crafted blade.

The Right Tools for the Job

The Smiths Guild reminds adventurers that preparation is the cornerstone of victory. Knowledge of one’s weapons, armor, and tools can turn the tide of battle. A finely balanced sword forged in Aldarekh’s forges is useless if the fighter wielding it lacks the skill to exploit its strengths.

To truly master combat, fighters must study their equipment, practice with it, and adapt their techniques to suit each situation. This principle extends to enchanted items crafted by the Shapers of House Zend-Wynn, whose innovations offer adventurers an unparalleled edge.

GM Tips

For Game Masters, this exploration of tools and improvisation opens countless narrative opportunities. Consider these strategies to enhance gameplay in a Dicesongs-style campaign:

Stripped of Equipment

Create scenarios where players lose their gear, forcing them to rely on improvised tools and their ingenuity. This fosters creativity and character development while showcasing the depth of the Dicesongs system.

Unique Guild Resources

Introduce NPCs from House Gravan-Myrwinia, or House Zend-Wynn who provide training, forge weapons, or craft enchanted items tailored to player needs. This strengthens the connection between characters and the world.

Tactical Encounters

Use environmental features—crumbling ruins, dense forests, or flowing rivers—as tools or obstacles in combat. Reward players who think creatively and utilize their surroundings effectively.

Guild Rivalries and Collaboration

Incorporate inter-guild dynamics. For example, a quest to recover lost smithing techniques could pit the Artisans Guild against rogue Shapers or involve clandestine operations in forbidden markets.

Thematic Challenges

Introduce moments that test a character’s ability to adapt, such as sudden armor restrictions or magical interference. These challenges add depth and variety to combat encounters.

By weaving the unique philosophies and teachings of Ertha’s guilds into your narrative, you can create a campaign rich in strategy, innovation, and immersion. Players will not only fight to survive but also thrive through ingenuity and the legacy of the tools they wield.