Weapons of WuXing

On the field, a noble might wield numerous different armaments - a bow to hit targets from afar, a spear to strike from horseback, or a sword to cut down foes in the bloody fray. Countless martial traditions exist using weapons of all kinds, from knives and spears, staves and warhammers, even to weapons imported from beyond WuXing's borders.   Weapons have the following attributes;

• Category: The archetype of the weapon, such as swords, polearms, or bows. Some techniques require specific catagories
• Name: The name of the weapon.
• Skill: The specific skill used to wield the weapon. This usually one of the three martial arts skills - Melee, Ranged, Or Unarmed.
• Range: The distant in range bands at which an attacker can hit a traget with a weapon. This is either a single number, such as 1, or a range of values, such as 1-2. Note that range is both a minumum, and a maximum; a target closer than the lowest value listed on a weapon's range is not considered to be in range of the weapon.
• Damage: A reflection of how quickly blows from this weapon wear a defender down. Attack actions frequently reference this value.
• Deadliness: The lethality of the weapon. A weapon with higher deadliness will more easily inflict gruesome injuries or death.
• Grips: The ways to wield the weapon. If a weapon lists multiple grips, each grip lists any alterations to the attributes that using that grip applies.
• Qualities: Any additional effects not covered by a weapon's table profile or individual entry.
• Rarity: The diffiuclty of the weapon to obtain from 1 to 10, with 1 being the most common.
• Cost: The monetary cost to buy the weapon.

Swords

The sword is the symbol of the WuXing noble class. Most weaponsmiths in the Empire hold the sword to be the most sacred form of weapon, and it's creation is an intrictae process. Part art, part science, part religious rite.   Training Sword These swords are carved of wood, rather than made of metal. While only a training weapon, they can still be deadly in a trained warriors hands.

• A properly shaped Training Sword can be used for Iajutsu Cut techniques, despite lacking the Razor-Edged quality.

  Butterfly Sword Short, slashing blades often designed with hooks above the guard, these blades are extremely versatile - easily concealable on one's person, offensively and defensively potent, and useful as a tool. Often wielded in pairs and usually custom made for an individual wielder, Butterfly Swords are a favourite of many Yi sailors.   Daddao A variation of the standard Dao, the Dadao has a larger, longer blade with a longer hilt to accomadate a two-handed grip. The heavy blade is supposed to provide the cutting strength of an axe, while retaining the versatility of the sword. Many nobles who prefer the Dadao choose to have it decorated in ceremonial fashion.   Dao Known as 'The General Of Weapons', the Dao is favoured by many over the Jian due to it being easier to train to use, and easier use from horseback. The Dao is a long, straight, single-edged blade with a wide belly, designed for slashing and chopping. They are generally wielded in pairs.   Flyssa The Flyssa is a foreign weapon that foreign mercenairies introduced to the Kingdom of Tang. It has a long blade tapering to a deadly point, a sizeable hilt, and no crossguard. While relatively thin, the blade has a broad belly like a scimitars, and it flares near the hilt to provide abit of protection to the user's hand. While making an attack action using a Flyssa, you may spend Opportunity as follows;

• 2+ Opportunity - Ignore 1 point of your target's physical resistance per 2 points of Opportunity spent this way.

  Gao Known colloqially as 'Tiger Hook Swords' or 'Heaven and Earth, Sun and Moon swords', Gao are curious weapons. Usually wielded in pairs, Gao are flat, solid, iron or steel blades roughly three feet long with several unique features. The main blade has a hook at one end, and a sharpened spike at the other. The grip is protected by a crescent shaped hand-guard with it's pints facing outwards. Gao can be used to slash, capture, and stab, making them appealing to certain styles of dueslist.   Jian Known as 'The Gentleman of Weapons', the Jian is primarily a dueslist's weapon. Many nobles train in it's use as an art form. This ancient and elegant sword has changed very little in design since it's inception in the hazy days of WuXing's distant past. A Jian has a straight, double edged blade that tapers to a point, a small thick, horizontal handguard, and a haeavy pommel with a tassel.   Kabutowari Similar to the Tekkan, the Kabutowari is a blunt, cast-iron sword, often used by the Tang in their defense against the Shadowlands. It has a curved, blunt blade, with a rectangular cross-section, a small cast crossguard, an a sizeable hook on the back of the blade near the crossguard. Often carried as a backup weapon, it is used more to pry apart armour and chitin plates than to slash or stab foes.   Pudao A large variant of the Dao, the Pudao has a handle twice the length of it's two-foot blade. The design is intended to allow the user to enage enemies at a longer distance, and is of particular use against horsemen.   Scimitar Perhaps the most common of all the foreign weapons brought to WuXing, the Scimitar is a heavy sword with a broad, curving blade. They possess a deadly cutting edge thanks to the extra surface area provided by their curvature.   Shangshoujian The Shangshoujian is a shorter version of the Jian blade. At two thirds the length it is easier to wield, and requires less time to master. This, combined with the venerable, noble reputation of the Jian, makes the Shangshoujian an excellent choice as a weapon for Noble parents to gift their children upon becoming adults. This has led to it becoming almost a sign of rank, with many nobles carrying them openly at all times.   Zhanmadao The Zhanmadao is an exceptionally large version of the Dao, almost six and a half feet long, designed to be able to cleave through man, horse, and armour, in single, heavy sweeps. The Zhanmadao is particularly favoured by the Lai, who find it highly effective against the charges of the Zhangpei horse tribes in the narrow mountain passes.   Shoudao The Shoudao is a shorter, single edged version of the Dao used almost exclusively by assassins and spies, who value its ease of use.   Shinshoudao Everyone knows that Assassins and spies carry a Shoudao, so merely having the scabbard raises suspicion. So the ever forward thinking artisans of the kingdom of Yang came up with a new solution. The Shinshougao sits in the scabbard of a regular Dadao, but has a much shorter blade, making it quicker, and deadlier on the draw.

• A Shinshougao appears to be a regular Dadao sword until examined. An examining character must either see it drawn, or make a TN4 Smithing check (Air 2, Water 5) to find the tell-tale details that betray the blade's duplicity. If it's true fuction is discovered, the blade loses the Ceremonial quality, and gains the Forbidden quality for anyone who knows it's identity.

  Talwar The Sharatan sidearm is the Talwar, or single-edged sword. A curved sabre with one sharp edge, and a cross-guarded hilt with a knuckle-bow, it is designed to be wielded in a specialised one hjanded grip. The swords hilt is bulb shaped, requiring that it be held differently than most swords forged in WuXing. This, and the blades unusual balance, means that Talwar fighting requires special training. Attempting to use this sword as one might use one from WuXing can break the blade or injure the user's wrist. However, when wielded correctly, the wider cutting tip at the end of it's blade affords it more cutting power, making the Talwar an espescially deadly sidearm.   Tekkan More a solid truncheon than an actual sword, the Tekkan - the name translates roughly to 'Iron Pipe' - is a single piece, cast iron weapon used to crack open armour and battle creatures immune to slashing attacks. Roughly five feet long, it has a long curved 'blade' with a rectangular cross section, and a two-handed hilt with a small crossguard.   Tachi An import from the isalnd nation of Mayato, the Tachi is an ornamental blade, longer than a Dao, with an impressive, single edged-slightly curved blade. Tachi always come ornately, and beautifully decorated.   Uchigatana The Uchigatana is more modern, utilitarian, variant of the imported Mayatan Tachi. Shorter, lighter, and with a thinner blade, with a more severe curve. It is preferred as a sidearm due to it's keen edge, and ease of the draw.   Urumi Considered one of the most challenging weapons to train with, the Sharatan Urumi (or Whip Sword), is a highly specialised weapon. Even just to start learning to use it, a person must first know both swordfighting and chain weaponry. An Urumi consists of one to three flexible whip blades made from thin steel, and mounted to a Talwar's handle. Similar to the Bullwhip, the Urumi excels at keeping multiple foes at bay, but it poses a significant risk of self-injury should anything go awry. This risk does little to dissuade those who study the Urumi, however. Due to this weapon's difficulty, wielders who master it are venerated as unparalleled martial artists.   Gladius This odd sword from the Empire of Tyber is rare sight in WuXing. Double edged, it has a two-foot long, leaf shaped blade designed for stabbing and slashing. The hilt is most often made of polished wood, wrapped with leather.  

Name	Skills	Range	Damage	Deadliness	Grips	Qualities	Rarity	Price
Butterfly Sword	Jianjitsu	0-1	3	4	1-Hand	Concealable, Snaring	6	10 Koku
Dadao	Jianjitsu	1	4	5	1-Hand, 2-Hand (+2 Deadliness)	Ceremonial, Razor-Edged	7	20 Koku
Dao	Jianjitsu	1	3	5	1-Hand	-	6	15 Koku
Flyssa	Jianjitsu	1	4	4	1-Hand, 2-Hand (+Razor-Edged)	Wargear	8	15 Koku
Gao	Jianjitsu	1	4	3	1-Hand	Snaring	7	15 Koku
Gladius	Jianjitsu	0-1	4	5	1-Hand	Razor-Edged, Wargear	9	50 Koku
Jian	Jianjitsu	0-1	4	4	1-Hand, 2-Hand (+1 Deadliness)	-	7	15 Koku
Kabutowari	Jianjitsu	0-1	3	3	1-Hand	Durable, Snaring	7	6 Koku
Pudao	Jianjitsu	1-2	5	6	2-Hand	Ceremonial, Razor-Edged	8	20 Koku
Shangshoujian	Jianjitsu	0-1	3	5	1-Hand, 2-Hand (+2 Deadliness)	Ceremonial, Razor-Edged	7	15 Koku
Shinshoudao	Jianjitsu	0-1	4	5	1-Hand, 2-Hand (+1 Deadliness)	Ceremonial, Concealable, Razor-Edged	8	22 Koku
Shoudao	Jianjitsu	0-1	4	4	1-Hand, 2-Hand (+1 Dealiness)	Concealable, Forbidden, Razor-Edged	7	12 Koku
Tachi	Jianjitsu	1	5	5	1-Hand, 2-Hand (+1 Deadliness)	Ceremonial, Cumbersome, Razor-Edged	8	16 Koku
Talwar	Jianjitsu	1	4	6	1-Hand	Cumbersome, Durable, Razor-Edged	8	35 Koku
Tekkan	Jianjitsu	1-2	4	3	1-Hand, 2-Hand (-Cumbersome, +2 Damage)	Cumbersome, Durable, Wargear	8	50 Koku
Training Sword	Jianjitsu	1	3	3	1-Hand, 2-Hand (+2 Damage)	Mundane	3	1 Bu
Uchigatana	Jianjitsu	1	3	6	1-Hand	Razor-Edged, Wargear	8	16 Koku
Urumi	Jianjitsu/Chain Weapons	1-2	4	5	1-Hand	Cumbersome, Razor-Edged, Snaring	9	50 Koku
Scimitar	Jianjitsu	1	4	5	1-Hand	Durable, Razor-Edged	8	20 koku
Zhanmadao	Jianjitsu	1-2	6	7	2-Hand	Cumbersome, Wargear	8	40 Koku

Axes

WuXing warriors do not often employ axes. Developed from farming implements, these weapons are menacing, despite their origins, and deliver vicious cuts, and crushing blows.   Kuwa Like many weapons assosciated with the peasantry, the Kuwa is a weaponised farming implement. based on the Hoe, it is a chopping weapin that is wielded similarly to a two ahnded axe. The wielder use the sharp end to fling dirt into an opponents face before following up with a devastating chop. The butt ened of the handle is also utilised in most Kuwa fighting styles as a blunt ramming weapon, ot to block an opponents intitial blow.   Lai Sapper Axe Crafted by the relentlessly pragmatic Lai, the sapper axe doubles as both a hammer and an axe. Resembling a regular hand axe but with a knobbed pommel and a smoothly polished or laquered handle, this weapon can be flipped in one hand to brandish either the blunt hammerhead or the sharp axehead. Like it's creators, the Lai Sapper Axe is notoriously hardy and difficult to break, making it a great asset both in and out of battle.

• A Lai sapper axe counts as an axe when wielded with it's standard 1-Hand profile, and as a blunt weapon when wielded with it's blunt profile.

  Yue A military, hatchet style axe. The Yue has been in use since ancient times in WuXing. In recent years it has fallen out of common use, except in the Kingdom of Tang. It does still hold impact visually, however, and many succesful military commanders are gifted a decorative, Jade Yue by The Empire.   Fu The Fu is a dedicated, two-handed military axe, a rarity in WuXing. It consists of a broad, deeply curved axe head, mounted on a hefty haft, almost as a tall as a human. Opposite the axe head is normally either an ornate peen, or a long spike, which can pierce armour of monstrous hide.  

Name	Skill	Range	Damage	Deadliness	Grips	Qualities	Rarity	Price
Fu	Heavy Weapons	1-2	5	6	2-Hand	Wargear	7	5 Koku
Kuwa	Heavy Weapons	1	4	2	1-Hand, 2-Hand (+2 Damage, +2 Deadliness, Range 1-2)	Cumbersome, Mundane	3	4 Koku
Lai Sapper Axe	Heavy Weapons	1	3	4	1-Hand, 1-Hand (Blunt, +2 Damage,-3 Deadliness)	Durable	2	3 Koku
Yue	Heavy Weapons	0-1	3	4	1-Hand, 2-Hand (+2 Deadliness)	Mundane	5	3 Bu

Blunt Weapons

Clubs, hammers, and similar weapons fall under the blunt weapons catagory. Blunt weapons are often extremely effective at smashing through heavy armour, crushing powerful monsters, and otherwise inflicting substantial damage on the battlefield.   Chui The Chui, once a common military weapon, is now considered mundane, common and antiquated. It consists of a spherical metal head atop a simple wooden shaft.   Gada While mundane, lesser versions of this venerable Sharatan mace are common, the gilded ceremonial versions are among the few that find their way to WuXing. Made with a hefty iron core, and dipped in molten gold. It consists of a long shaft capped with a spherical head with a spike on top. Sometimes the spike is made from Red-Coral, which proves highly effective against creatures of the Shadowlands. Such potent, valuable Gada are highly prized weapons amongst Sharat's greatest warriors. Gada come in massive sizes designed to crush the skulls of charging mounts, and in smaller versions designed to be wielded in pairs.   Genno the Genno is a massive, long handled hammer used for demolition and construction. Essentially a scaled up artisan's hammer, it consists of a squre or octagonal steel head, mounted on an ironwoord haft about four feet long. The head is made from relativly soft steel and has two hardened strinking surfaces, one is flat, the other slightly convex. The flat head is used for basic hammering, chiselling, and demolition. The Convex surface is used for driving spikes and nails flush with a surface, and other work that requires a more focused power. When you make an attack action with this weapon, you may spend Opportunity as follows;

• 2 Opportunity - If you succeed but your target reduces the damage of this attack action to 0, they suffer the dazed and prone conditions.

  Hammer The simple hammer is used for driving in nails and spikes, and other construction work. Throughout all of WuXing, the hammer is only occasionaly used as a weapon, typically in brawls, or spur of the moment skirmishes where no other weapon is available.   Kiseru Kiseru are pipes used to smoke various herbs, found throughout WuXing. They consist of a metal mouthpiece, and metal bowl, connected by a hollow wood or bamboo tube. They range in quality from a peasant's rough hewn pipe to a noble's gold and ivory inlaid piece of art. Furthermore, their ubiquitousness in everyday life makes them a good weapon in a pinch, in areas where true weapons are not allowed.   Otsuchi The otsuchi is to the artisan's hammer what the Fu is to the woodcutters axe. Larger, deadlier, and obviously designed with lethal purpose. With a shaft roughly six feet long, topped by a huge, barrel-shaped mallet head, it is built to breach doors and smash walls, but it also works quite well on monsters with rock-like hides.   Tetsubo Long and narrow, a Testsubo can be as tall as a human, and is usually constructed of iron, or dense hardwood. Above the grip, a tetsubo is covered in steel, iron, jade spikes, or even metal studs that add to the weapon's lethality and crush armour or plated carapace with ease.   Tsuruhashi The humble Tsuruhashi is one of many tools repurposed by the Tang into weapons. Based on the common miner's pickaxe, this weapon features a solid wooden haft, and forged steel head with two striking faces, one with a flat blade effective at prying apart armour, and the other with a steel point that can easily puncture flesh, steel, and hide alike. Both faces can cause grievous wounds thanks to the leverage afforded by the long handle. When you perform an attack action with this weapon, you may spend Opportunity as follows;

• 2 Opportunity - If you succeed on this check, but the target reduces the damage of attack action to 0, their armour gains the damaged quality, and they gain the bleeding condition.

 

Name	Skill	Range	Damage	Deadliness	Grips	Qualities	Rarity	Price
Chui	Heavy Weapons	0-1	5	2	1-Hand, 2-Hand (+1 Damage)	Mundane	1	1 Bu
Genno	Heavy Weapons	0-1	3	3	1-Hand, 2-Hand (+4 Damage)	Durable, Mundane	5	1 Koku
Hammer	Heavy Weapons	0-1	5	2	1-Hand, 2-Hand (+2 Damage)	Mundane	4	2 Bu
Kiseru	Heavy Weapons	0	2	2	1-Hand	Concealable, Mundane	5	1 Koku
Otsuchi	Heavy Weapons	1	8	3	2-Hand	Cumbersome, Wargear	8	30 Koku
Tetsubo	Heavy Weapons	1-2	7	3	2-Hand	Cumbersome, Durable, Wargear	5	20 Koku
Tsuruhashi	Heavy Weapons	1	4	3	1-Hand, 2-Hand (-Cumbersome, +2 Deadliness)	Cumbersome, Mundane	4	5 Bu
Gada	Heavy Weapons	1	6	3	1-Hand, 2-Hand (+3 Deadliness)	Ceremonial, Cumbersome, Wargear	9	50 Koku

Hand Weapons

These are simple weapons, often adapted from tools. Many are still tools, first and foremost, like the knife, but can be employed as weapons in a pich. Hand weapons are easy to find, easy to operate, and often not even viewed as weapons.   Jitte Typically just over a foot long, the Jitte consists of a short steel or iron rod attatched to a wooden handle. The rod tapers to ablunt point and has a single prong that extends from one side. This simple weapon is designed to disarm and subdue targets rather than kill them. It is carried by law-enforcment officials at all levels, from low-ranking town constables to high ranking magistrates, as a badge of office.   Knife Knives come in a dizzying array of types and styles, from crudely constructed knives in peasant kitchens, to deadly noble sidearms.   Nunchaku Originally adapted from a farmer's threshing tool, nunchaku have been used by certain noble schools and martial disciplines for centuries. They consist of two short iron or wooden rods connected by a short length of chain or rope.   Tessen Carried by courtiers and military leaders alike, Tessen fans are specially built for fighting. However, they are not commonly viewed as weapons and can be openely carried into even formal court chambers or negotiations. Usual made of wood with steel tines, they generally serve as defensive weapons, but wielders can also use them to deliver clubbing blows.   Tonfa A design of uncertain origins, a Tonfa is a thick stock attacked at 90 degrees to a handle that allows it to spin freely. An incredibly versatile defence weapon, a Tonfa can be used to reinforce blocks and launch blisteringly fast short circular attacks. Tonfa are often wielded in pairs, or alongside an open hand.

• As a Movement and Support Action, if you have a Tonfa readied, you may increase the TN of the next Attack Action check targeting you by 1, and decrease the TN of the next Attack action check you make using the Tonfa by 1. The effect persists until the end of your next turn.

  Sai A Sai is a forked weapon that appears in many places. They are seen in ancient drawings in WuXing, and Yi traders report seeing them in use in both Mayato and Sharat. They are commonly wielded as a pair, with the tips blunted to allow a warrior to trap, control, puinch, and jab, to subdue a foe.

• When you have a pair of Sai readied, reduce the Opportunity you must spend to activate their Snaring quality by 1.

  Xiaodao Designed specifically for stabbing through armour at close quarters, the Xiaodao is an espescially thick blade worn at the belt. The heft steel head is razor sharp, and intended to pierce thick hide or armour in a single motion. Most soldiers wear the Xiaodao on their favoured side so they can draw it with their off hand in the heat of battle. When performing an attack action check with the Xiaodao, a character may spend Opportunity as follows:

• 1 Opportunity - Your target treats their physical resistance as 2 lower. This effect persists until the end of your next turn.

 

Name	Skill	Range	Damage	Deadliness	Grips	Qualities	Rarity	Price
Jitte	Rogue Weapons (Melee)	0	3	2	1-Hand	Concealable, Snaring	5	5 Bu
Knife	Rogue Weapons (Melee)	0	2	4	1-Hand, 2-Hand (+2 Deadliness)	Concealable, Mundane, Razor-Edged	1	1 Koku
Nunchaku	Rogue Weapons (Melee)	0-1	4	2	1-Hand, 2-Hand (+Snaring)	-	6	1 Koku
Tessen	Rogue Weapons (Melee)
Xiadao	Rogue Weapons (Melee)	0	2	4	1-Hand, 2-Hand (+3 Deadliness)	Concealable, Razor-Edge, Wargear	5	10 Koku
Sai	Rogue Weapons (Melee)	0	2	2	1-Hand	Concealable, Snaring	6	2 koku
Tonfa	Rogue Weapons (Melee)	0-1	3	3	1-Hand	Concealable, Durable	5	4 Koku

Polearms

Polearms are a broad class of weapons that includes spears, staves, and a variety of other designs. Polearms are excellent for keeping opponents at bay, and striking from beyond reach.   Bisento The Bisento is s trange weapon, not often seen on the battlefields of WuXing. Essentially a scimitar with an extremely long hilt, the bisento has a long, Mao-like wooden shaft topped by a broad and heavy gurved blade. Though it seems awkward and top-heavy, the bisento is exceptionally dangerous in the right hands. The length of the shaft gives the wielder incredible leverage, allowing them to deliver great chopping blows that can slice a person in half or cleave through heavy armour. The Bisento was made famous in WuXing by the great warrior Zhou Zhenya, known to most in WuXing as 'The Goddess Of War.'   Bo The Bo, a humble staff, is found throughout WuXing. Roughly six feet long, and made from sturdy hardwood, it is carried by by travelers who need both a walking stick and an inconspicuous weapon.   Eku An Eku is a weaponised oar, wielded as a polearm. Like the smith's hammer, or the farmer's hoe, it likely came into being as a tool, and was turned to violent purpose when seafarers came under attack and needed something with which to defend themselves. Heavier than a staff, and harder to wield, the Eku is a surprisingly dangerous weapon, best used for sweeping attacks. Yi sailors tell of similar weapons made of exotic woods or even whale-bone used by sailors of other seafaring cultures they have encountered.   Ji The Ji combines the thrusting blade of the venerable Mao with a a perpendicular blade for cutting, slashing, and grabbing. This made it more difficult, so it would never supplant the Mao, but it had much greater versatility. Historically, the Ji has been favoured by many great warriors, and many generals value the capability Ji armed units have in both offensive and defensive situations.   Kamayari A Kamayari is a spear with a hooked protusion on one, or both sides, of the blade, similar to a Ji. While the hook's most obvious applications are blocking strikes and dragging foes off horseback, it also has practical, non-combat applications. A skilled user can swing from sturdy tree branches using the hook, or might use it to climb a high fence. Some even drill holes through the shaft to use to measure distances, or slot bars through to act as a short ladder. Finally, and possibly most mundane, the hook is useful for carrying bundles over long distances.   Magari Yari The Magari Yari is a heavy-tipped, triple headed spear. Because of it's unwieldy head, using it during battle requires particular training.

• After performing an attack action check with a Magari Yari, a character suffers the Disoriented condition, unless they choose to recieve 3 fatigue.

  Mao Called 'The King of Weapons,' the Mao is the primary spear in the Xian Empire. Lengths can vary wildly, but this simple design is by far the most common on the battlefields of WuXing. Military manuals lay out a traing regimen that takes only a month to make the common soldier proficient with the Mao, and an infantry regiment armed with Mao can easily hold off both cavalry and infantry attacks. Horsemen also use the Mao. It is easy to mass produce, and has become ubiquitous with mass conflict in WuXing.   Nagae Yari Many more stoic nobles favour the Nage Yari, or straight headed spear. Featuring a flat steel blade at the end of a very long hardwood pole, it is ideal for repulsing attacks against fixed positions.

• Before performing an Attack action check using the Nagae Yari, a character may choose to suffer the Immobilised condition. If they do, and succeed on the check, they add 2 bonus successes.

  Shakujo Fovured by priests and some Fortunist monks, a Shakujo is a long walking staff adorned with five interlocked brass rings, represnmting the elements. The purpose of the rings is to make noise and warn small creatures, such as insects and birds, to move out of the wielder's path. Usually made of wood, or non-precious metals, shakujo are very occasionally made of gold.

• If the Shakujo is made of gold, its price increases by 10 Koku, and it gains the Resplendant quality.

  Sun Axe The Sun Axe is a poleaxe with a long, crescent moon shaped blade that curves upward, extending behind the haft. This helps counterbalance the axe for sweeping moves and martial arts flourishes. Typically, the blade is more than two feet long, and the haft rarely exceeds five feet, making the weapon cumbersome for those not experienced in their handling.

• This weapon counts as both a Polearm, and an Axe.

  Trident The trident is a long, triple-headed spear generally assosciated with fisherman, and the sea. On land, the trident is a formidable polearm with exceptional reach that can pierce, trap, and control opponents.   Zhanpudao Favoured by infantry, the Zhanpudao is more an elongated greatsword than a true polearm. Single-edged, with a haft the same length as the already massive blade, it is normally swung in long, sweeping motions to slice the foe.  

Name	Skill	Range	Damage	Deadliness	Grips	Qualities	Rarity	Price
Bisento	Maojitsu	1	4	6	1-Hand, 2-Hand (Range 1-2, +2 Damage)	Cumbersome, Durable, Wargear	8	15 Koku
Bo	Bojitsu	1-2	6	2	2-Hand	Mundane	2	2 Bu
Eku	Bojitsu	2	6	4	2-Hand	Cumbersome, Durable, Mundane	5	3 Koku
Ji	Maojitsu	2	5	2	2-Hand	Snaring, Wargear	6	7 Koku
Kamayari	Maojitsu	2	4	3	2-Hand	Durable, Snaring	7	8 Koku
Magari Yari	Maojitsu	2	7	4	2-Hand	Cumbersome, Razor-Edged, Wargear	6	20 Koku
Mao	Maojitsu	2	5	3	2-Hand	Wargear	3	5 Koku
Nagae Yari	Maojitsu	2	5	2	2-Hand	Wargear	2	1 Koku
Sun Axe	Maojitsu/Heavy Weapons	1-2	3	5	1-Hand, 2-Hand (+3 Damage)	Ceremonial, Cumbersome, Resplendant	8	20 Koku
Shakujo	Bojitsu	1	4	1	1-Hand, 2-Hand (+1 Damage)	Ceremonial	4	5 Bu
Trident	Maojitsu	2	4	4	2-Hand	Snaring, Wargear	7	10 Koku
Zhanpudao	Maojitsu	1-2	3	5	1-Hand, 2-Hand (-Cumbersome, +2 Damage, +2 Deadliness)	Cumbersome, Razor-Edged, Wargear	4	30 Koku

Bows

After swords and spears, the bow is probably the next most iconoc weapon of WuXing nobles. There is honour to be found in mastering the use of a bow. For the common folk it is a tool, used to hunt their food. For nobles, the skill of the hunt is still viewed with great honour, and many practice it for sport and enjoyment. From the simple hunting bow, through to the deadly Zhangong, the bow is a customary sight amongst commoner and noble alike.   Folding Shougong The Shougong is smaller version of the traditional Gong, with a low draw rate and is only accurate at short distances. However, when you combine this with the mobility of an Assassin or Spy, it can be very effective. Espescially for delivering toxins or incendiary material. Many clandestine types have their bows fold in half to store easily within a case.

• While in it's case or or otherwise folded, a Folding Shuogong has the Concealable quality and cannot be fired. As a support action, a character may prepare the bow for use.

  Gong The Gong is perhaps the most common military bow in use in WuXing. It is a long, graceful bow made from a composite of horn, sinew, leather, and wood. A little smaller than it's cousin, the Zhangong, the gong retains it's asymmetric grip, general shape, and long range killing power. Where the Zhangong is designed to use on horseback, however, the Gong is designed to be fired while standard.   Zhangong Zhangong are large composite bows designed to be fired from horseback. Conventianally around six feet long, these elegant weapons are are constructed by gluing thin layers of wood, horn, leather, and sinew together. They differ from other bows in that they have an asymmetric shape. The grip sits at two thirds from the top of the bow, making the top curve longer. This allows the bows to be fired more easily from horseback in either direction. Zhangong are individually constructed and fit for each user.   Zhangpei Horsebow Whiel the Zhangpei horse tribes are barbaric, uncivilised raiders with no place under the Celestial Heavens, certain WuXing artisans can respect their craft, espescially those of the Tang, who are looking for any edge against the creatures of the shadowlands. The Zhangpei Horsebow is a small, combact bow, designed for use from the back of a fast moving horse during rapid raids and cavalry strikes.  

Name	Skills	Range	Damage	Deadliness	Grips	Qualities	Rarity	Price
Folding Shougong	Archery	2-3	4	3	2-Hand	-	5	3 Koku
Gong	Archery	2-5	5	3	2-Hand	-	3	3 Koku
Zhangong	Archery	3-5	6	4	2-Hand	Wargear	6	6 Koku
Zhangpei Horsebow	Archery	2-4	4	5	2-Hand	Wargear	4	6 Koku

Arrows

When used with a bow, these arrows modify the weapon's profile as follows;

• Willow-Leaf - The Standard arrow. As long as a character has a quiver, they do not need to keep track of the number of willow-leaf arrows they use, unless the GM says otherwise.
• Armour-Piercing - Ignore up to 2 points of the targets physical resistance.
• Flesh-Cutter - +2 Deadliness
• Humming-Bulb - -2 Damage, -2 Deadliness. The arrow produces a loud noice, audible at range 0-4 of the path the arrow travels.
• Smoking-Bulb - -2 Damage, -2 Deadliness. Emits a thin column of colired smoke, used for signalling. Comes in a variety of colours.
• Fire-Blossom - -1 Damage. After being fired, the arrow radiates bright light at a range of 0-4 of it's position until the end of the Scene.
• Hamaya - +3 Damage, +3 Deadliness. Effects only actrivate against an otherworldly being.
• Soul-Star - +1 Damage. Additional benefit based on Element of action used; Air - The area at range 0-3 of the arrows impact becomes Obscuring terrian until the end of the user's next turn. Earth - An otherworldly being struck by this arrow must make a TN3 Fitness Check (Air 2, Water 4) or recieve 4 Strife and suffer the Immobilised and Silenced conditions until the end of the user's next turn. Fire - The area at range 0-3 of the arrow's impact becomes Dangerous terrian. If the arrow inflicts a Critical Strike upon an otherworldy being, it suffers the Burning condition. Water - The area in range 0-3 of the arrows point of impact becomes Entangling terrain until the end of the Scene.
• Steel-Tip Yajiri - +Razor-Edged
• Jade Inlay Yajiri - +Sacred
• Obsidian Splinter Yajiri - +4 Deadliness, + Forbidden, +Razor-Edged, +Unholy

Crossbows

In WuXing, while the bow is an honourable weapon of sport and skill, the Crossbow is a military tool. Any conscript can be taught to load, aim, and shoot a crossbow in a mere fraction of the time of a bow, and most ranged infantry regiments use the crossbow. Because of it's ease of use, many noble families do not assign the crossbow much honour, but not can deny its effectiveness.   Eyunnu This massive an powerful crossbow is a middle step between the common Nu and the ballista siege weapon. A little over three feet in length, it has a sturdy Ironwood stock, and long limbs made of steel. An Eyunnu (Doom crossbow) fires long bolts, about as thinck as a thumb, that are usually tipped with a barbed, armour piercing head. Thanks to the size and strength of the steel limbs, it requires a special, detatchable, hand-cranked windlass to cock it. the weapon's power allows it deadly bolts to punch through metal plates, armour, and even the thicj, scaly hide of an Oni with ease. Despite it's fantastic destructive potential, an Eyunnu has a number of serious drawbacks. It is incredibly heavy, and requires uncommon strength to use. It is also quite hard to aim at nearby targets. Some of these issues can be lessend by fixing the crossbow into a stand, and become fair trade offs for a weapon that can potentially drop an ogre with a single shot.

• When you perform an attack with an Eyunnu that inflicts a critical strike, increase the severity by the silhouette of the target.

  Fengbaonu (Storm bow) The strange and wondrous Fangbao (Storm Bow) is a recent addi-tion to the Tang arsenal. Designed by Tang engineers to tackle groups of massed enemies, this large andawkward weapon fires a cloud of vicious darts with onepull of the trigger. Overall, it resembles a larger, bulkier Zhoukainu. Unfortunately, the ability to strike many targets at once comes with numerous drawbacks. The weapon is extremely front-heavy thanks to the firing mechanism. In addition, it has a shorter range than a typical crossbow, and its darts are less lethal than standard bolts.When performing an attack action check with this weapon, you may spend Opportunity as follows:

• 1 Opportunity: Each character at range 0–1 of your initial target also becomes a target of this attack

  Nu This weapon consists of a recurve bow laid horizontally on a long, stout stock.It is the standard crossbow in use across the Xiang Empire. It is cheap and quick to mass-produce.   Zhoukainu Developed within the last century by Tang engineers, this large, bulky weapon is essentially a rapid fire crossbow. The weapon consists of a heavy Nu crossbow with a large box attatched to the top of the stock. The box contains a magazine of bolts and a cocking mechanism that, with a single pull, draws the string, loads a bolt, and readies the mechanism to fire. While they are few in number due to their relative mechanical complexity, they have proven incredibly valuable against Shadowland hordes, allowing small groupos of soldiers to hold off superior numbers until reinforcment arrives. When performing an Attack action check with this weapon, you may spend Opportunity as follows;

• 2 Opportunity - After performing an Attack action, immediately prepare this weapon for use again.

Name	Skill	Range	Damage	Deadliness	Grips	Qualities	Rarity	Price
Eyunnu	Crossbows	3-5	8	6	2-Hand	Cumbersome, Wargear, Prepare	10	80 Koku
Fengbaonu	Crossbows	1-4	4	3	2-Hand	Cumbersome, Prepare, Wargear	9	60 koku
Nu	Crossbows	2-5	7	3	2-Hand	Prepare, Wargear	8	40 Koku
Zhoukainu	Crossbows	2-5	7	3	2-Hand	Cumbersome, Prepare, Wargear	8	60 Koku

Specialist Weapons

These weapons, most often used by Assassins and Spies are a mix of improvised tools, modified agricultural implements, and bespoke weapons. They usually emphasize staelth and accesability over sheer killing power, and often have unsavoury reputations.   Blowgun Made from a length of hollow bamboo or river reed, the blowgun is one of the simplest weapons that more stealthy nobles use in their work. the blowgun's primary use is as a ranged weapon, usually to deliver poison. In addition to darts, the blowgun could also be packed with sand or dirt, to blind or disorient foes, and it can also be used to to let it's user breathe underwater.   Chain Whip A specialised weapon made from a series of several stiff metal rods connected by chain loops. This long, flexible, whip is used single handed, with a wooden or metal grip on one end and a sharp metal dart on the other.   Gunbai The Gunbai, a leader or commander's war fan, is a staple of noble officers for communicating orders to their troops at a distance. Each Gunbai is unique, as are the gestures the officers use to communicate orders to their troops. With a flick of the wrist, an officer may order their troops to fall back, or to charge into the fray. Often gilded in metal, the Gunbai is used to convey urgent tactical shifts, but can be used as a deadly wepon in a pinch.

• During a skirmish, a character with a Gunbai can perform a Shuji targeting characters who can see them at range 0-6, rather than the usual auditory only restriction of range 0-4.
• During a mass battle, for each of an army's leaders equipped with a Gunbai, the army increases it's discipline by 2.

  Kama The Kama is another example of an agricultural implement adapted to become a weapon. In this case, standard sickle used for harvesting rice. It consists of a roughly four foot long haft, topped by a long curved sickle blade. Kama are often used in pairs, sometimes linked at the handles by a length of chain.   Kusarigama Extremely versatile and deadly, the Kusarigama is a difficult weapon to master. It is a hybrid weapon consisting of a long hafted Kama with a long length of chain attached to either the base of the haft or the back of the blade. A heavy iron weight called a fundo is attached to the other end of the chain. In combat, the wielder typically spins the chain over their head with one hand while holding the Kama in the other. They whip the chain forward, entangling their target's limbs or weapon, then rush in for the killing blow with the Kama. A wielder can also attack with the weighted end of the chain, striking an opponent at range and keeping them at bay.   Kusarifundo When a noble begins training with flexible weapons, they first learn the simplest and most reliable, the Kusarifundo. The weapon consists of two weights, shaped like hexagonal prisms, connected by a length of thin chain that reaches from the sternum to an outstretched hand when pulled taut. Some disguised varieties hide the weights in the head and body of a doll, or similar. The weapon collapses easily so that it can fir into a small pocket or pouch, or be held inconspicously in the palm. To strike with the weapon, the user can cast it out from the palm or swing it in one hand. They can also hold the chain in both hands, pulling it taut to deflect and block weapons, striking with the heavy weights, or entangling, throwing, or strangling the foe with the chain. While the bite of the chain links into the skin is very painful, the strikes are not usually lethal. Magistrates that prefer their charges alive often train to use this weapon. Overall, the kusarifundo is a good weapon in it's own right, that gives the user the skills to move onto more comlicated flexible weapons.   Shengbiao More difficult to use than the Kusarifundo is the Shengbiao. This consists of a long rope, usually made of hair, with an iron loop tied to one end, and the hooked head of a Kamayari polearm to the other. The loop can be thrown over hooks or protusions, and the barbed head can be sunk into soft surfaces, allowing the user to scale a wall quickly. Aside from that, this weapon can be sued in a similar manner to a Kusarigama. However, the loop and rope allow for certain difficult manouvres that the chain can of the Kusarigama does not. For example, if the loop is thrown over the blade of a sword or spear, or grabbed by a foe, a well practiced wielder can snap the rope to send a wave along it's length, entangling the weapon or hand in a square knot.   Shakuhachi A Shakuchachi is a traditional WuXing flute. This popular musical instrument is particularly associated with a sect of monks who play it as a form of meditation, as well as to busk for alms. Shakuhachi come in various sizes, but they are generally heavy and sturdy enough that a traveler may use them for defence if accosted on the roads.   Shuriken Favoured by Assassins and spies, the shuriken is a small metal disc with sharpened edges that come in a wide array of sizes. They are designed mainly to distract, but can also be coated with toxins for lethality, and truly skilled users can use the cutting edge to deadly effect.   Sling Perhaps the humblest of ranged weapons, the sling is a length of braided cord with a pouch for holding a stone. The wielder swings the stonewithin the sling for momentum, then releases one end of the sling to propel the stone a great distance. Many noble's underestimate a sling's usefulness, considering it a peasant weapon at best and a toy at worst. But in the right hands, a sling's range is greater a bow, and a slung stone can kill a foe instantly on impact.   Tekagi Tekagi are three back-curved barbs that protude from a metal band wrapping around the user's palm (or, less commonly, the sole of the foot). They are primarly a climbing tool, making climbs easier and allowing the user to scale surfaces they could otherwise not. But they can also be used to swing at and bludgeon a foe when they hang loose from the wrist, or to slash them when attached to the palm. Defensively, a pair of Tekagi allow the user to snap a metal blade by catching it between the barbs and applying lateral pressure in opposite, horizontal directions. When performing an attack with a Tekagi, a character may spend Opportunity as follows;

• 1+ Opportunity - If the traget's vigilance is lower than, or equal to the amount of Opportunity this way, choose one Razor-Edged weapon the target has readied. It becomes Damaged.

  Tekken Tekken are metal knuckles held in the hand, or worn with one's fingers slotted through it's holes. They are easily concealed, and deliver a little extra weight and cutting power to a simple strike. They come in various forms, the simplest of which is a hollow semicircle, gripped like a handle. Others have individual slots for fingers, or are simply rings with spiked protrusions on one side to cause pain, distraction, and bleeding. A hidden pocket in a robe or sleeve is an excellent place to conceal Tekken.   Whip The whip is a common tool used by those who practice animal husbandry to protect animals from dangers like wild animals and bandits. Nobles consider this more a tool than a weapon.   Pilum A strange looking spear from the Empire of Tyber, the Pilum is roughly 6ft long, consisting of a 4ft wooden haft topped by a 2ft Iron Shank topped by a pyramid shaped tip. The weapon feels oddly weighted in the hand, the reasoning for which is because it's designed to be thrown, rather than stabbed with, a method of spear use which has never caught on in WuXing, and the weight aids in puncturing armour and flesh alike.  

Name	Skills	Range	Damage	Deadliness	Grips	Qualities	Rarity	Price
Blowgun	Rogue Weapons (Ranged)	2-3	1	2	1-Hand	Concealable	7	5 Bu
Kama	Rogue Weapons (Melee)	0-1	3	3	1-Hand	Concealable	4	1 Koku
Pilum	Rogue Weapons (Ranged)/Maojitsu	2-3	4	3	1-Hand, 1-Hand Melee (Maojitsu Skill, -1 Damage, + Cumbersome, 1-2 Range), 2-Hand Melee (Maojitsu Skill, -1 Damage. 1-2 Range)	Durable, Wargear	9	50 Koku
Kusarifundo	Chain Weapons	1	2	2	1-Hand, 2-Hand (+snaring)	Concealable	5	4 Bu
Kusarigama	Chain Weapons	0-1	3	3	1-Hand, 2-Hand (Range 2-3)	Concealable, Snaring, Wargear	6	5 Koku
Gunbai	Rogue Weapons	1	2	2	1-Hand	Ceremonial, Wargear	4	3 Koku
Shakuhachi	Heavy Weapons	0	3	2	1-Hand, 2-Hand (+1 Damage)	Durable, Mundane, Subtle	4	3 Bu
Shengbiao	Chain Weapons	1-2	2	3	2-Hand	Concealable, Forbidden, Snaring	6	3 Bu
Shuriken	Rogue Weapons (Melee)/Rogue Weapons (Ranged)	0	2	4	1-Hand, 1-Hand Thrown (Rogue Weapons (Ranged) Skill, Range 1-3)	Concealable	6	1 Koku
Tekagi	Rogue Weapons (Melee)	0	1	3	1-Hand	Durable, Forbidden	6	4 Bu
Tekken	Martial Arts (Unarmed)	0	2	3	1-Hand	Concealable, Durable	4	3 Bu
Whip	Chain Weapons	2	3	2	1-Hand	Ensnaring, Mundane	2	4 Bu
Chain Whip	Chain Weapons	1-2	3	5	1-Hand	Razor-Edged, Snaring	6	4 Koku
Sling	Rogue Weapons (Ranged)	2-3	3	3	1-Hand	Concealable, Mundane	2	1 Bu

Shields

The use of shields is rare in WuXing. Those that do exist are made of either hardened wood or metal, and decorated with symbls of family or Kingdom. When used, they are often paired with spears, straight edged swords, or even crossbows. A character can only wield one shield at a time.   Buckler A buckler is small, round, oval or rectangular shield, typically no more than a foot and a half across. It provides the wearer with several benefits, including increased defence against projectiles, dafety for the sword hand, and can also be used as a powerful bludgeoning tool.

• While you have abuckler ready, treat your physical resistance as 3.
• As a movement and support action, if you have a buckler readied, you may increase the TN of the next Attack Action Check made targeting you by 1. This effect persists until the end of your next turn.

  Large Shield Large shields, also called body shields, are a common sight in the Kingdom of Tang. Typically used in conjunction with polearms, they provide incredible protection from both melee and ranged attacks. Roughly the size of the average man, a typical Large Shield is made from hardwoods, reinforced with steel, and covered with leather.

• While you have a Large Shield readied, treat your physical resistance as 6.
• As a Movement and Support Action, if you have a large shield readied, you may increase the TN of attack action checks made targeting you by 2. This persists until the start of your next turn.

  Araphist Heavy Shield The Araphists of al-Zawira have a force of specially trained guards who are adept at manouvreing and working with heavy, advanced, shields produced by the master crafters and alchemists of the Caliph. These shields cover nearly two-thirds of an average warriors body and are extremely heavy. Not only do the offer increased protection from both ranged and melee assault, but these massive shields cxan be used to bullrush opponents and knock over multiple enemies if used by a skilled combatant. These shields are also created to ward off supernatural effects using the secretive methods of the Caliph's alchemists.

• While you have a readied Araphist Heavy Shield, treat your Physical resistance as 4 and your Spiritual Resistance as 2
• As a Movement and Support action, if you have an Araphist Heavy Shield readied, you may increase the TN of Attack action checks made targheting you by 3. This perists until the start of your next turn.

  Small Shield Usuaslly made of iron or steel and carried in one hand, Small Shields are typically square or rectangular, and can feature spikes, scalloped edges, engraving, embossed images, or other embellishments. Often used by skirmishers, they provide respectable coverage without weighing down the user overmuch.

• As a Movement and Support Action, if you have a large shield readied, you may increase the TN of attack action checks made targeting you by 2. This persists until the start of your next turn.

  Sode At throwback to an earlier age of armour making, these medium sized shields first appeared centuries ago, and were, for a while, considered an essential part of a warrior's armour. Made of hide, iron, and steel plate, Sode attatch to the wearer's shoulder, and extend to the elbow. They provide excellent coverage, and allow a mounted combatant to keep their hands free while still recieving the benefits of a shield. Use of Sode has fallen off in the past few decades, but some more tradition minded warriors still wear them.

• A set of Sode do not require free hands to wield, but cannot be wielded with another shield.
• While wielding a readied Sode, treat your physical resistance as 1 higher when reducing damage from projectile attacks.

  Scutum The Scutum shield is practically an Emblem of the Imperial Army of Tyber. A three and a half foot tall shield made of a thin sheet of iron, much thinner than any shield from WuXing to lessen the weight, reinforced with calfskin and leather, it is pressed into a semi-cylindrical shape, designed to wrap comfortably around the body from knee to shoulder when held at either the front or side. The Scutum excels at turning away blows from close range, and works perfectly in tandem with the Gladius sword.

• While wielding a readied Scutum, treat your Physical resistance as 2 Higher against attacks made against you at ranges 0-1.

 

Name	Skill	Range	Damage	Deadliness	Grips	Qualities	Rarity	Price
Araphist Heavy Shield	Heavy Weapons	0	4	2	1-Hand	Durable, Cumbersome, Ceremonial, Wargear	9	50 Koku
Buckler	Heavy Weapons	0	2	2	1-Hand	Ceremonial, Wargear	7	4 Koku
Large Shield	Heavy Weapons	0	3	2	1-Hand	Cumbersome, Durable, Wargear	8	10 Koku
Small Shield	Heavy Weapons	0	2	2	1-Hand	Cumbersome, Durable, Wargear	8	6 Koku
Sode	Heavy Weapons	0	2	2	Shoulder	Durable, Wargear	8	8 Koku
Scutum	Heavy Weapons	0	2	1	1-Hand	Durable, Wargear	9	50 Koku