Rarity of Fire Magic in Frostbound Legacy

Fire magic is a rare and precious commodity in the frozen north. The cataclysmic event that plunged the world into an icy age severely diminished the ambient fire magic that once flowed freely. As a result, fire magic is often viewed with a mixture of awe, suspicion, and fear.

Rules & Restrictions

Limited Access: Characters specializing in fire magic (e.g., Sorcerers with Fire bloodlines, Wizards with the Fire school) are uncommon. Their origins and training often require unique circumstances, such as:

• Ancient bloodlines passed down through generations.

• Rediscovered ancient texts or lost knowledge.

• A pact with a rare entity that grants access to dormant fire magic.

Increased Costs: Fire spells require specialized components, often rare and expensive to acquire. These components might include:

• Crystals of trapped sunlight

• Dusts of ember-touched flora

• Incense made from ancient, petrified wood

Environmental Challenges

The extreme cold of the tundra significantly impacts fire magic:

• Lingering fire effects (e.g., Burning Hands) are quickly extinguished.

• Sustaining fire spells requires greater magical effort in the frigid environment.

Roleplaying Implications

• Social Stigma: Fire mages may face suspicion, fear, or even persecution in some regions. Some might be seen as unnatural or even dangerous.

• Unique Opportunities: Fire mages are highly sought after by certain factions, particularly those combating the encroaching cold or facing threats from creatures of the ice.

• Moral Dilemmas: The rarity and power of fire magic can lead to ethical dilemmas. Should it be used solely for combat, or can it be used to aid the people of the tundra in more constructive ways?

Combat Advantages

• Enhanced Effectiveness: Fire spells deal an additional 1d6 damage against creatures with the "Cold" subtype or vulnerable to fire.

Froststeel

This a unique material found in the Frostbound Tundra.

• Durability: Froststeel is incredibly strong and resistant to damage, making it ideal for crafting weapons, armor, and tools.

• Cold Resistance: It may offer some degree of natural resistance to the extreme cold of the tundra.

• Magical Properties: Some froststeel may have inherent magical properties, such as increased resistance to cold-based attacks or the ability to channel minor frost magic.

The Chill of the North

For the initial stages of our campaign, the harsh environment will play a significant role. To that end, specific items and abilities that drastically reduce the impact of cold weather will be restricted. This means:

No Items That Grant Immunity or Advantage to Cold Weather Effects:

Specifically, this includes, but is not limited to:

• Items like Endure Elements (or similar spells/abilities)

• Boots of the Winterland or similar items providing significant cold resistance/immunity.

• Any other magical or mundane means that provides similar outright negation of the cold's impact will be subject to DM review and likely be disallowed for the time being.

The Rationale: This is not meant to be punitive! The biting cold is part of the challenge and narrative we will be exploring. We want you to feel the impact of this environment, to make choices based on its severity, and to find creative ways to cope. Think about layering clothing, building fires, seeking shelter, and using teamwork.

A Taste of Things to Come:

We understand that this restriction may feel limiting. Rest assured, this is a temporary measure. As the story unfolds, and as you delve deeper into the mysteries of this region, you may discover a way to overcome these limitations.

The path to gaining such advantages will be tied to the narrative. Perhaps you'll discover lost artifacts, encounter powerful allies, or complete specific quests that will unlock the power to withstand the harshest elements.

Impact:

Cold weather conditions and the impact of cold will be considered. Be prepared for environmental challenges and think strategically about how your characters interact with the setting.