Bronzewood
This exceptionally hard wood, native to Aerenal, is useful in the manufacture of armor and weapons. Unlike most woods, bronzewood can be used instead of metal to fashion heavy armor and weapons—it is somewhat shapeable during manufacturing, and it keeps a sharp edge. Although dense and weighty compared to other woods, it is still lighter than steel: Items weigh 10% less when made from bronzewood rather than metal.
Breastplate, banded mail, splint mail, halfplate, and full plate can be made from bronzewood. Armor made of bronzewood is somewhat less obtrusive than similar armor made of metal. The armor check penalty from bronzewood armor and shields does not affect Hide checks made in woodland environments. Although bronzewood can replace metal in most weapons, chain weapons such as the spiked chain cannot be made from it. Weapons made from bronzewood have no special characteristics apart from their lighter weight.
Bronzewood has hardness 10 and 20 hit points per inch of thickness.
Properties
Material Characteristics
The name, as you might surmise, is derived from its appearance. Freshly cut bronzewood exhibits a vibrant, metallic sheen, ranging in color from a deep copper to a lighter, almost golden bronze. This color isn't merely on the surface; it permeates the wood itself, giving it a truly stunning visual appeal. Over time, and with exposure to the elements, the metallic luster may dull slightly, but the underlying bronze hue remains.
Beyond its appearance, bronzewood possesses a unique density. It's significantly heavier than typical hardwoods like oak or ash, feeling almost like it contains metal within its very fibers. This density contributes to its renowned strength and durability. A shield crafted from bronzewood can withstand blows that would splinter lesser timbers, and a bronzewood longbow possesses exceptional draw strength and accuracy.
Physical & Chemical Properties
Physically, bronzewood is incredibly strong. It resists bending and splintering far better than typical lumber. While not as hard as true metal, it can withstand significant impact and pressure. A bronzewood shield is a sturdy defense, and a bronzewood haft will rarely break in the heat of battle. This durability makes it highly sought after for crafting weapons, tools, and sturdy construction materials.
The material is also surprisingly heavy. Carrying a full bronzewood longbow can quickly tire an unprepared arm. Builders must account for its heft when designing structures, but the resulting fortifications are remarkably resilient against siege weaponry.
Chemically, bronzewood presents some interesting properties. It is notably resistant to fire. While prolonged exposure to intense flames will eventually char it, it does not ignite easily, making it invaluable in areas prone to wildfires or dragon attacks. Furthermore, I've observed that it holds up remarkably well against acid and other corrosive substances, a trait that makes it popular for containers used in alchemical processes. Bronzewood is not acidic itself; it has a neutral scent and doesn't react with skin.
Perhaps the most curious property of bronzewood is its warmth. Unlike ordinary wood or metal, it often feels subtly warm to the touch, even in cold environments. Some scholars speculate that this is due to a residual connection to volcanic activity, or even a faint connection to energies from the plane Fernia. Whatever the cause, it is a comforting and distinctive feature.
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