Crafted by the eccentric mage Fredrik Summers during a long, lonely period of arcane experimentation, the Hat of the Tiny Familiar was originally a companion project—intended to keep him company without distracting from his magical work. The first familiar, a spectral rodent named "Nibblewit," proved surprisingly talkative. Amused and inspired, Fredrik created dozens of whimsical variants and now offers these magical hats to solo travelers, wandering mages, and anyone in need of a comforting (if opinionated) voice.
Properties:
- Spectral Familiar: While attuned to the Hat of the Tiny Familiar, a spectral familiar resides in your hat. It is invisible and intangible to everyone but you. The familiar is not a combat creature and cannot be harmed, banished, or summoned—it is bound to the hat’s magic.
- Chatterbox: Once per long rest, you may consult your familiar on a matter of magical theory, arcane lore, or common sense. If the DM deems the familiar might know something relevant, you gain advantage on one Intelligence-based skill check (Arcana, History, Investigation, Nature, or Religion).
- Tiny Presence: The familiar acts like a combination of a Minor Illusion and Prestidigitation source of entertainment and light interaction. It can’t interact with the world physically but can whisper thoughts directly to your mind (telepathy up to 30 ft).
- Lonely No More: While attuned to the hat, the wearer has Advantage on saving throws against being frightened or charmed if they have no other allies within 10 feet. After all, you’re never truly alone with a rat on your head.
d12 Variant Familiars and Their Unique Quirk:
| d12 | Familiar Variant | Quirk |
| 1 | Mouse | Constantly critiques your handwriting. |
| 2 | Squirrel | Thinks everything is a duel. Calls everyone "scoundrel." |
| 3 | Weasel | Thinks you’re royalty and acts accordingly. |
| 4 | Bat | Thinks it’s a warlock. Constantly warns of shadow beings. |
| 5 | Owl | Overly formal. Insists on tea time every evening. |
| 6 | Hedgehog | Makes snuffling noises when you lie. |
| 7 | Ferret | Collects imaginary treasures and encourages petty theft. |
| 8 | Rat | Obsessed with cheese. Will not stop talking about it. |
| 9 | Rabbit | Constantly critiques your fashion and life choices. |
| 10 | Gecko | Very suspicious. Narrates your life like a spy novel. |
| 11 | Hamster | Nervous chatterbox. Alerts you to danger. |
| 12 | Mole | Hates sunlight. Tells stories of “the Below.” |