A censer is a decorative incense burner typically crafted from metal, ceramic, or precious metals like silver or gold. These vessels are often ornately decorated with religious symbols, intricate patterns, or images of deities. Some censers are simple, utilitarian tools while others are elaborate works of art, depending on their use and the culture they hail from. Attached to a chain or rope, the censer is swung from side to side, releasing fragrant smoke into the air as incense burns within.
Usage:
Primarily utilized during ceremonies, rituals, or religious services, the censer emits fragrant or blessed smoke, creating an atmosphere of sanctity or purification. However, beyond its ceremonial use, it doubles as an improvised weapon, functioning much like a flail. The size and weight of the censer determine the damage it deals when used in melee combat. Some variations of the censer may cause 1d8 bludgeoning damage upon striking, while others might inflict slashing or piercing damage, depending on their design and construction.
Special Abilities:
The censer's versatility extends to the types of incense it can burn, creating diverse effects. It can emit fragrances associated with blessings, purification, or relaxation. Alternatively, it can release hallucinogenic or even toxic smoke within a 15-foot aura. The effects of the incense depend on the specific blend and the intended purpose of the user or the setting in which it is employed. Blessed incense might grant bonuses to healing, protection, or warding off evil, while toxic or hallucinogenic smoke could debilitate or confuse enemies.
As an item of religious significance and practicality, the censer serves a dual purpose, both as a tool of spiritual significance and as a formidable and adaptable weapon in combat situations.
| Variant | Description | Abilities |
| Bloodstone Censer | Carved from dark-red bloodstone, this censer radiates an eerie crimson glow when incense is burned. | Melee Attack: 1d8 piercing damage. 15ft Aura: Causes intimidation, disadvantage on Wisdom saves, but advantage on Charisma checks. |
| Engraved Silver Censer | An elegant censer crafted from polished silver, adorned with engraved celestial symbols and runes. | Melee Attack: 1d8 bludgeoning damage. 15ft Aura: Grants advantage on saving throws against being frightened and restores 1d4 hit points per round to injured allies. |
| Grim Iron Censer | it features a chain adorned with miniature skull charms. The censer itself is shaped like a blackened, skull-like face with hollow eyes, from which the smoke billows. | Melee Attack: 1d8 piercing damage. 15ft Aura: The smoke creates a heavily obscured area for 1 minute in combat. |
| Jade Dragon Censer | Crafted in the likeness of a coiling dragon, this jade censer releases wisps of fragrant smoke when swung. | Melee Attack: 1d8 slashing damage. 15ft Aura: Grants temporary advantage on saving throws against fear effects and poison while inside it. |
| Golden Lotus Censer | Ornamented with intricate golden lotus designs, this censer radiates a soft golden light when incense is burnt. | Melee Attack: 1d8 slashing damage. 15ft Aura: Provides temporary hit points equal to the wielder's proficiency bonus to allies within range. |
| Dragon-Phoenix Censer | Depicts the intertwined forms of a dragon and phoenix, emitting a colorful smoke that shifts between red and blue hues. | Melee Attack: 1d8 bludgeoning damage. 15ft Aura: Allows allies to reroll one failed saving throw against charm effects while within the aura. |
| Swingshroud Censer | Fashioned from alabaster and engraved with swirling patterns, this censer releases swirling psychedelic smoke, causing confusion and disorientation. | Melee Attack: 1d8 bludgeoning damage. 15ft Aura: Causes creatures to make a Wisdom saving throw or be affected by the confusion spell for 1 minute. |
| Onyx Breath Censer | This crude, rusted censer emits a noxious cloud of poisonous fumes, causing discomfort and weakening foes. | Melee Attack: 1d8 slashing damage. 15ft Aura: The smoke imposes disadvantage on Constitution saving throws. |
| Crimson Lotusbloom | This censer features a chain adorned with intricate red lotus flowers. The fragrance it releases is both invigorating and spiritually uplifting. | Melee Attack: 1d8 slashing damage. 15ft Aura: Invokes a sense of spiritual purity, providing advantage on saving throws against possession and mind-affecting spells. |