Ratlesnake Lash
(weapon, uncommon, requires attunement)

Last Updated: May 7, 2023
Campaign: TBD

This whip is made from the scaly twisted hides of rattlesnakes. The end of the handle resembles a rattlesnake's rattle.

The "Ratlesnake Lash" is a magic Whip +1, which provides a +1 bonus to attack and damage rolls.

The "Ratlesnake Lash" will make a loud rattlesnake rattle to warn you of danger. The rattle can be clearly heard within a 30 foot radius of you.
While the "Ratlesnake Lash" is on your person:

  • You gain a +2 to your initiative roll.
  • You also have advantage on initiative rolls.
  • You and any of your companions within 30 feet of you can't be surprised, except when incapacitated by something other than nonmagical sleep.
  • You and your companions are magically awoken within range if any of you are sleeping naturally when combat begins.

    History:

  • The "Ratlesnake Lash" has been created by Yuan-ti for well over a millenia.
  • The "Ratlesnake Lash" was used by Yuan-ti slave masters and guards to keep alert against slave uprisings.
  • The "Ratlesnake Lash" has made its way into other lands and civilizations and is highly sought after and prized by modern slavers.
  • Possesing or brandishing a "Ratlesnake Lash" could make others mistake you as a slaver, especially by those who have fought against or escaped from slavery.

    Design Notes:

    Its value is 250 gp.
    - 100 gp for whip +1 (uncommon ability)
    - 100 gp for weapon of warning (uncommon ability, requires attunement)
    - 50 gp for guardian (common ability/minor property)

    Inspired by the tables in the DMG on page 142-143 to make this magic item unique. Basically, they provide ideas for the creator, history, minor property and quirk.
    - creator: Human (Yuan-ti)
    - history: Sinister
    - minor property: Guardian
    - quirk: Loud

    NOTE - Other magic items used by Yuan-ti and their agents include:

  • Dagger of Venom - DMG p161
  • Serpent Scale Armor - Candlekeep p99
  • Serpent's Fang (Longsword) - Candlekeep p99

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