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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Juniperus flaccida, known as the drooping juniper or weeping juniper, also referred to as Mexican juniper and in Native American tradition as tláscal, is a large shrub or small tree reaching up to 5–10 meters tall, with rare instances of it growing as high as 15 meters. It is native to central and northern Mexico, stretching from Oaxaca northward, and can be found in the extreme southwest of Texas, particularly in Brewster County. It thrives at moderate altitudes of 800-2,600 meters, preferring dry soils. According to local legends, this tree is imbued with a mystical presence, believed to ward off evil spirits. The indigenous people regard this tree as a protector, often associating it with stories of guardianship and spiritual strength passed down through generations. One of the most famous legends tells of a group of villagers who, during a time of great despair, gathered around an ancient Juniperus flaccida. They performed a sacred ritual involving chants and dances that were said to summon protective spirits. The tree, as the story goes, glowed with an ethereal light, and the villagers felt a powerful sense of peace and protection, leading them to evoke this ritual in times of trouble ever since.
This member of the juniper family is popular in both Texas and Mexico. An unusual wand wood, Juniper is known for its skills in healing and purifying, be it through charms or fire. Those who wield Juniper wands often describe them as feeling warm and responsive, with a tendency to enhance spells related to protection and tranquility. They excel at casting protective charms and purification spells, creating a soothing presence in the hands of their users. Those with Juniper wands are often likely not only to live long lives but also to be surrounded by those who will live long lives. Juniper is one of those few wands that is hard to turn to the Dark Arts. However, when it is successfully turned, usually with the aid of a core that welcomes the Dark Arts or Dark Magic, it becomes exceptionally powerful.
