Contraption

Contraptions are tools enchanted with magic made to help in a great variety of tasks.

Description

Objects that are enchanted with magic are known as contraptions. Such items are prized throughout the world, as they can be used even by those who do not practice magic. They can only be created by witches and therefore command high prices, which can result in theft of said contraptions by bandits and the like.

Notable Contraption Makers

• Olruggio
  • Glowstone Path
  • Searneedle Wand
  • Snugstone
  • Phantasmal Fireball
  • Makeover Mask
  • Magic Floating Dish
• Qifrey
  • Palm Dragon Teacup
  • Raincleaver
• Coco
  • Wingcloak
• Tetia
  • Sandtent Staff
• Richeh
  • Split-Shard Bangles

Legality

In order for a contraption to be approved for general sale, it must first be screened and approved by the Wise in Friendships to ensure that the contraption poses no grave risk or potential to cause harm, especially for items being sold to Outsiders. Contraptions that fail this screening are not allowed to be sold.

An illicit contraption is a device sold in secret without being approved, and/or uses a spell that indirectly causes harm to people, such as the GarmetGlimpse Glasses. In this case, not only are the contraptions illegal to sell, but the maker can face punishment from the Knights Moralis.

There are also limits as to who can make contraptions. As they can only be created by witches, and yet be used even by Outsiders, they therefore command high prices. The crafting of contraptions before one has taken the Consent of the Crown and become an apprentice is forbidden.

Even outside of legal concerns, a creator needs to consider the impact their contraption may have, and whether it is responsible to sell it or if it may end up having unintended negative consequences. One example of this is the Phantasmal Fireball, which Olruggio chose not to sell as it may have led to children having a mixed understanding of whether fire is safe or dangerous to touch.