Ceramic Ornament (sage ability)

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Ceramic ornament is an amateur-status sage ability in the study of Geology, which enables the character to imbue clay pottery, stoneware, or porcelain items with artistic and decorative qualities. Using this ability, a pre-existing modelled article can be transformed into a uniquely appealing object, reflecting the creator's individual style and artistic sensibilities. The resulting piece often possesses a charm rooted in its irregularities and imperfections, making it a delightful and personal artifact that may resonate emotionally with others.

The process involves straightforward steps like mixing flux, deciding on a simple underglaze or overglaze, and applying a basic design — whether a geometric pattern or a rich, appealing colour. The tools required are minimal and easy to handle, aligning with the skill level of someone experimenting with ornamentation. The final object is appealing in its quirkiness, offering a personal touch rather than technical perfection.

Making

Unless the glazer possesses the skill to craft the ceramic object themselves, they must acquire an unfired piece from a potter of at least amateur ability. Once the item has been obtained, the glazer prepares the necessary flux and determines whether the piece requires an underglaze or overglaze. Additional considerations such as the desired design or finish are applied to transform the item into an ornamental piece. These ornaments may include cups, pitchers, bowls, plates, spoons, urns or any other small ceramic objects no larger than a human hand span, approximately seven inches in diameter.

The tools required for glazing are minimal and accessible, including a small putty knife, a brush, several small pots for mixing flux and a hand fan for drying. The artistic possibilities range from simple geometric patterns to vibrant colour effects designed to catch the light. Completing the design takes 2-5 hours, after which the piece is fired in a kiln requiring a full day to set and dry. If the glazer does not own or know how to operate a kiln, a kiln worker may be hired, though the cost of materials and kiln usage varies depending on the location.

Success in creating a functional and appealing ornament is uncertain, with a base chance of 5% on the first attempt. Each additional attempt increases the probability of success by 5%, reaching 25% on the fifth try. If the glazer is not operating the kiln themselves, multiple pieces may be prepared and fired simultaneously, allowing the glazer to make additional attempts during the firing process. Success cannot be determined until the firing is complete.

After achieving the first successful ornament, the glazer's chance of success continues to improve with practice. Although occasional failures may still occur, the likelihood of producing consistent results increases over time. Once a 100% success rate is achieved, the glazer can reliably produce ornaments with minimal effort, requiring no more than two hours to complete each subsequent piece.

Appreciation & Benefits

Once the ornament is deemed a success, the glazer should share it with others to view and appreciate. Of those who see the piece, 1 in 20 will find it special enough to desire it for their own. Its monetary value remains modest, typically about three times the cost of the original ceramic. The glazer may choose to sell the ornament or gift it; however, no specific benefits for acts of generosity, as described below, will apply to the ornament’s maker.

The character (NPC or Player) who comes to own the ornament will develop a sentimental attachment to it, provided it remains intact and unspoiled. After one week of ownership, regularly using or handling the ornament for just a minute each day fosters a sense of well-being that improves the possessor's general disposition and outlook on the world. Thereafter, the possessor gains a +1% bonus to all experience received; this bonus is not cumulative with the possession of other objects.


See also,
Bard Sage Abilities
Ceramics (sage field)