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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Prosopis affinis is a species of flowering tree in the pea family, Fabaceae, that is native to Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. Common names include algarrobillo, espinillo, ibopé-morotí, and ñandubay. It is threatened by habitat loss. In the realm of magical lore, Prosopis affinis is said to possess mystical properties, often believed to have been used by ancient sorcerers to enchant the lands and bring peace to troubled spirits. Legends tell of its wood being used in wands crafted for healers, offering a powerful source of protection and wisdom to those who wield it.
Ñandubay is a sweet wand wood by nature and shares some visual similarities with Quebracho, yet it remains somewhat stubborn and uncommon. Its exterior is characterized by a smooth, glossy surface with a rich, deep brown color, interspersed with golden flecks, giving it a radiant sheen under light. The wood emits a faint, warm aroma reminiscent of honey and wildflowers, lending its bearer a sense of calm and reassurance. Ñandubay wood is moderately dense, providing a balance between strength and flexibility, and its hardness ensures durability, making it suitable for long-lasting wands. The grain of Ñandubay is typically straight with a fine texture, facilitating ease in carving and allowing intricate designs. Despite its excellent workability, artisans might experience slight difficulty due to its natural resilience, a trait that requires refining skills during the crafting process. As a wand wood, it is not used enough for a proper understanding of its preferences. However, it tends to select individuals who show resilience by emerging unexpectedly from difficult situations. Ñandubay wands are drawn to those who respond to an unfair or abusive upbringing with cheerfulness, or those treated well but who react with malice without cause. Due to its preference for sweet and kindly personalities, Ñandubay wands frequently seek those who embody positivity and balance, especially when paired with cores of Alicanto Feather or Unicorn Hair.
To craft a wand from Ñandubay, artisans should first carefully select pieces of wood that are straight and free of major imperfections. Once selected, the wood needs to be seasoned appropriately by air-drying it for at least a year to ensure it is firm and workable. Before shaping the wood, gently sand the surface to highlight its glossy, radiant sheen. It is recommended to apply a light coating of natural oils to preserve its smooth texture and enhance its warm aroma. By doing so, the wand will retain its mystical qualities, infusing the final product with the desired blend of protection and wisdom inherent in Prosopis affinis.
