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...
Oops! This image does not follow our content guidelines. To continue publishing, please remove it or upload a different image.
Rhododendron is a genus of 1,024 species of woody plants in the heath family, either evergreen or deciduous, and found mainly in Asia. However, it is also widespread throughout the Appalachian Mountains of North America. It is the national flower of Nepal as well as the state flower of West Virginia and Washington in the United States, and the state tree of Sikkim and Uttarakhand in India. Most species have brightly colored flowers which bloom from late winter through to early summer. The botanical traits of Rhododendron, such as its resilience and ability to thrive in diverse climates, are mirrored in its magical properties when used as wand wood. This adaptability makes it a superb conduit for spells requiring versatility and flexibility. The plant's vibrant flowers are believed to imbue the wands with a lively energy, enhancing the spellwork that draws on nature's innate magic.
Popular in the United States, Nepal, India, eastern Asia, Australia, and Europe, Rhododendron wands like to select owners as eccentric as they are. The process of selection is an adventure in itself, as the wand senses the vibrancy and spirit of a prospective owner. It's not uncommon for a Rhododendron wand to hum softly or emit a subtle warmth when the right match approaches, signaling its interest in the person. Adventurers at heart, these people and their wands cannot stand to be bored. They like to be on their feet, active, and complete a physical objective (especially if it involves interacting with people). Despite their inclination for physical activity, they are a bit clumsy. The term "human disaster zone" accurately describes them. Not often caught off guard, these wizards and witches keep aware of their surroundings. Though spirited, they like to be prepared for all possibilities and carry a miscellaneous arsenal of things at all times. Their taste is wide and varied, food or otherwise. They have a high tolerance for medication and alcohol; they are heavyweights. Do not be surprised if they dress in outlandish color combinations and just a general mismatch of eras and textiles.
On yet another note, many can be bribed with spicy cuisine. They may also have a love for horror or suspense movies, comics, or literature. There is talent in magic to do with illusions, healing, and fear. This wand's elemental composition is water and earth-based. Best subjects include charms, potions, divination, herbology, care of magical creatures, and arithmancy. Dehydration is a common problem, and owners should soak their wand in water (preferably rainwater) when it feels dry to the touch or, in more severe cases, cracks. Ideally, owners should soak their wand at least once a month for 6 to 12 hours, or whenever the wand begins to feel overly dry. If cracks appear, a longer soaking period of up to 24 hours may be necessary. Owners should also take caution when drinking more water than the average person.
Both the wand and the owner dislike the cold. It is recommended that the owner keep a wand sleeve around the wand during winter (even inside) in cool climates if not in use. Likewise, these people tend to bundle up, even during hot weather. Rhododendron prefers cores of either a watery nature or from a terrifying beast (or both). Some popular core examples include kelpie hair, which enhances the wand's adaptability to water-related spells, and basilisk scale, which adds a potent and fearsome energy to spellwork. Including such cores can help owners better understand the compatibility and potential of their Rhododendron wands.