In this world, there are many tools one may use to direct magic. One of the most well-known of these is the wand. Of course, it is a common saying that "The wand chooses the wizard," with all wands having a degree of awareness with which they select...
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Thuja plicata, commonly called western red cedar or Pacific red cedar, giant arborvitae or western arborvitae, giant cedar, or shingle wood, is a species of Thuja, an evergreen coniferous tree in the cypress family Cupressaceae native to western North America. It is not a true cedar of the genus Cedrus. In the realm of magic, western red cedar is revered for its unique properties, highly valued in wandmaking. Its wood, characterized by its straight grain and medium to coarse texture, is moderately dense yet relatively lightweight, providing the perfect balance of strength and flexibility. This workability makes it ideal for crafting delicate and intricate wand designs. Its wood is known for enhancing the magical power of spells related to protection and transformation. Furthermore, the aura of mystery surrounding this tree is believed to aid in the amplification of intuitive magic, making it a sought-after material for crafting wands that seek to bond with imaginative and adventurous spellcasters.
A member of the cypress family, Western Red Cedar is a good all-around wand wood, with specific skills for flying and transfiguration, depending on its core and who it bonds to. Those with Western Red Cedar wands are often playful and mischievous by nature, and Western Red Cedar wands are known to encourage this, providing a creative casting partner to the witch or wizard they choose and allowing for imaginative spell application. Historically, western red cedar has been used in wand crafting for its resilience and flexibility, qualities valued since ancient times. Compared with holly, which is as rigid, and willow, which is as fluid, western red cedar offers a balanced approach that is appreciated by many wandmakers. Western Red Cedar wands are often pale shades, unless heavily polished, and tend to gain shine when well used or when used as they find fitting. Western Red Cedar is also one of the wands known for its fine self-shaping over time, often adapting to suit the hand of its wizard better and, in design, its personality. This ability to bond closely with its owner speaks to the tradition of selecting wand woods that complement the user's magical strengths and characteristics.
