Wand of Surprise

(Point the Wand!)

(Tap the Wand!)

The Wand of Wonderment may be an item of considerable magical power, but the use of it is fraught with danger. In an effort to fabricate a less dangerous tool of magic, extensive research and testing has resulted in a new and improved wondrous wand: the Wand of Surprise.

The Wand of Surprise, unlike its chaotic predecessor, has been carefully designed to respond to two different wand-wielding techniques in order to produce either a beneficial or detrimental effect according to the wielder's wishes. The exact nature of the effect is, of course, impossible to predict, but it is highly likely that it will be a boon to the wielder and a bane to the wielder's enemies. No guarantees are offered, but the wielder is assured that the proper use of the Wand of Surprise will probably not result in the wielder's sudden destruction.

The important thing to remember is that the difference here is in pointing the wand versus tapping it. If the Wand of Surprise is pointed, it will discharge a detrimental effect at the target. If it is tapped against something (an object, a friend, oneself), it will discharge a beneficial effect. Sometimes the definition of "beneficial" or "detrimental" is subject to interpretation. The extent of any benefit or detriment to the target may vary. Ownership of a Wand of Surprise does not constitute any binding legal obligation on the part of the creator of said wand.

All wands have a limited number of charges, and each use of a wand drains one or more charges. Each use of a Wand of Surprise, for instance, drains a single charge regardless of the magical effect. It is sometimes possible, however, to cause the wand to generate a specific effect that the user has witnessed before, but the charge expenditure is much greater, and, typically, random. Each such use depletes a Wand of Surprise of 10-60 charges, and a wand generally has only 100 charges.

When a wand has been depleted of charges, it becomes inert. Some wands are rechargeable, whilst others are forever drained of their capacity for magic. To recharge a wand may require the undertaking of a quest to seek one capable of performing such a task, or it may be as simple as paying a visit to your Favorite Local Magic Shop or your Friendly Neighborhood Wizards' Guild.

Speaking of danger, breaking a wand is another matter. It is probably best to avoid it if possible.

Wand-Using Procedures, Tested
or
WUPT

1. Wave the wand whilst
2. Uttering the magic words of activation (if any) and
3. Point it or
4. Tap it.