Rat on a Stick
weapon (quarterstaff), common
A simple wooden pole with a living rat lashed to the end. The rat is magically sustained and perpetually annoyed. It functions as a quarterstaff that occasionally bites.
Rat Whack
This weapon functions as a quarterstaff. On a hit, it deals bludgeoning damage. The rat squeaks furiously and bites the target, dealing an additional 1 piercing damage.Keen Nose
The rat has an exceptional sense of smell. While holding the weapon, you can use an action to let the rat sniff the air. It points toward the nearest source of food or rations within 60 feet, squeaking excitedly in that direction. This has no effect if no food is within range.Lore
No one knows who made the first Critter on a Stick. Some blame a druid with a grudge. Others credit a ranger who ran out of arrows and got creative. The most popular theory involves a wizard's failed attempt at a familiar and a really unfortunate woodpecker.
What is known is that the enchantment is remarkably stable. The critter doesn't need food, water, or sleep. It doesn't age. It can't be removed from the pole by nonmagical means. And it is always, without exception, in a terrible mood about the whole arrangement.Despite their dubious origins, Critters on a Stick have become surprisingly popular among adventurers who value practicality over dignity. Each animal brings something different to the fight, and most owners develop a genuine (if complicated) bond with their cranky little weapon companion.
The animals can understand simple commands but respond to them with varying degrees of enthusiasm. The rat cooperates grudgingly. The skunk cooperates spitefully. The porcupine barely acknowledges you exist. And the honey badger cooperates with everyone's least favorite emotion: rage.
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