The Crown Jewels (or, what a sovereign needs)

[Silveras]

To some degree, the answer to this question depends on what rules system is being used to represent rulership, etc.

Birthright, for example, had bloodlines infused with the essence of gods. It also had physical manifestations of concentrated divine blood in the form of "blood jewels". The Emperor of Anuire had two crowns made (one for formal use and the other for day-to-day, just as mentioned by AFGNCAAP), each set with enormous pieces of blood jewels matching his bloodline. The crowns boosted the bloodline score of anyone with the associated divine energy in his/her blood.

In the same setting, the Elves of Tuarhievel (sp ? it has been a while) had an Intelligent throne that would kill unsuitable claimants. Claiming the rulership of Tuarhievel was a risky proposition, obviously.

 

[Nightfall]

I like both Numion's and Silveras' suggestions. If you DO make it intelligent, try to make it goodly and/or Lawfully aligned. After all if it's just a N item, things will quickly get out of hand. Consolitation of power is crucial to a stable monarchy.

 

[GreyShadow]

Perhaps the crown jewels slowly gain power the older the kingdom becomes. Either through symbolism (sp?) or the royal mage / high priest in favour slowly adding enchantments to them.

The crown gaining something from each ruler, slightly stronger impressions from those that rule longer or with greater passion.

 

[Greybar]

Nice idea, Greyshadow. Kind of like the levelled weapons suggested in a Dragon magazine a year or so ago.

AFGNCAAP, you mention Regalia of Good/Neutrality/Evil - which I'm not familiar with. Where are those from?

good thoughts, all

john

 

[Bauglir]

Taking the intelligent item idea a little further, each king could upon their death add their own knowledge and wisdom to the collective intelligence within the crown, allowing each new monarch to benefit from the experience of all those before him.

Also in terms of magical effects, a Mind Blank effect would come in handy.

 

[Nightfall]

AFGNCAAP, you mention Regalia of Good/Neutrality/Evil - which I'm not familiar with. Where are those from?

good thoughts, all

john

That comes 1st edition and you can find the good regalia in Book of Exalted Deeds, the evil regalia in Book of Vile Darkness and all three in Arms and Equipment Guide.