Totally 'ammered

On Runes and Runesmiths

Written by Adam Lowe (@adambeyoncelowe) / adam-lowe.com
With proofreading by the #wfrp-4e-homebrew channel
Images by AhmetCanKahraman, Alegion, alexandrecarod, effix35, jameszapata, Malvino, MatBirdie, Narog-art,
ncorva, Ozakuya, Serg-Natos, shurita, TinySecretDoor

How to use the existing Craft rules to carve Dwarf Runes and fashion mighty Runic Items.

It is a well-known fact that Dwarfs — and by that I mean

proper Dwarfs, and not them edgy Chaos Dwarfs that should
know better — never become Wizards. No, sirree. They're too
earthy and too 'ard to wear those daft robes. Also, their
resistance to magic prevents the kind of innate aptitude
sometimes found in Humans and Elves. Dwarfs can't sense
the Winds of Magic, they can't develop Second Sight, and
they don't learn and cast spells in the traditional way. (Chaos
Dwarfs have some rather abhorrent ways to circumvent these
limitations, but since they are calcifying wretches, marked for
life and filled with torment, it's best not to think about it.)
Unlike Halflings, who are simply incapable of magic, Dwarfs
do have ways of harnessing the Winds of Chaos — but they're
slow, steady and dependable, just like Dwarfs. Though they
have a deep cultural distrust of wild magic and find its
connections to Chaos unpalatable, Dwarfs have their own
sacred ways of accessing magic.
A Gift from Thungni
Instead of spells, Dwarfs wield powerful Runes brought to
them by the Ancestor God Thungni. The legend goes that
during the Migration, Thungni ventured deep into the earth
and discovered Ankor Byrn, the Glittering Realm. There he
dug the secrets of the Runes from beneath the earth, bringing
them to the surface like precious stones, and gifted them to
the wisest Dwarfs he could find.
The process of crafting Runes is thus a kind of worship for
Dwarfs, requiring dedication, devotion and dexterity. Some
of the most legendary items in the Empire were beaten into
shape by Dwarfs — including the Runefangs sported by the
Elector Counts and Sigmar’s iconic hammer Ghal Maraz.
Following Thungni’s sacred teachings, the revered
Runesmiths occupy a unique position in Dwarf society. Part
artisan, part priest, the Runesmiths use magic in the only way
Dwarfs know how: tamed under chisel and hammer,
conquered on Anvils of Doom, and consecrated with arcane
chants. Unlike Human and Elf Wizards, who through hubris
dally with perverse energies they barely understand, the
devout Runesmiths have found a more cautious way to
harness magic.

Though their processes seem slow compared to the fickle

practices of Wizards, the results are both durable and
relatively risk-free. The Runesmiths carve magical power into
items of the highest quality, using a combination of skill and
learning to create lasting effects. Such Runesmithing makes
the bearer capable of legendary feats without risk of miscasts.
What’s more, the Runes produced through this process last
thousands of years — if not forever.

‘Dwarf Crusader’​ by s​ hurita​ is licensed under ​CC BY-NC-ND 3.0

New Career: Runesmith
Dwarf ​(Class - Academics)
You beat magic into shape with your bare hands and finest
tools, crafting items of wonder and might.
Part of a prestigious tradition dating back to the time of the
gods, the Runesmiths keep their knowledge heavily guarded.
Apprentice Runesmiths are often recruited from the families
of established Guild members. Each nominee is vetted by the
senior Runesmith in the Hold and is apprenticed for at least
five to 10 years, although some Masters spitefully keep
recruits in apprenticeship until they die. Rarely, an
Apprentice flees his master and takes up trade as an Artisan or
Engineer, but those who leave the Guild are never permitted
to return.
Once an Apprentice has proven himself, he receives his Guild
Licence, and becomes a Journeyman. Those who are skilled at
seeking Rune lore and mastering the forms of this ancient
writing may eventually be promoted to the status of Master.
‘Dwarf Citadel Warrior II’​ by ​Serg-Natos​ is licensed under C
​ C BY-NC-ND 3.0
‘It were our lot that med that ‘ammer Sigmar ‘ad?
But do we get credit? Do we boulders!’
—Diesa Oskarsdottir, Journeyman Runesmith of Yorvik
‘It might look like posh work with all them gems on’t table,
but I promise yer, lad, yer gunna get dirty.’
—Bardryn Lutgehr, Master Runesmith of Ledes
‘Back off, yer little gobshite. This hammer could floor
Sigmar ’issen. Don’t mek me show yer.’
—Gunnga, Rune Lord of Grissenwald
A Master is permitted to take Apprentices to study under
them, and will likely be among the most powerful of
Runesmiths in a given Hold. Those few particularly
venerable Runesmiths who become Rune Lords are rare
indeed. Often hundreds of years old, their status among
Dwarfs is evident even to outsiders. Rune Lords are
frequently treated as kings among their own people and they
have the status to match.
WS BS S T I Ag Dex Int WP Fel
✢✢ ✢
Apprentice Runesmith – Silver 5
Skills:​Cool, Endurance, Language (Arcane Dwarf), Lore
(Metallurgy), Lore (Runes), Trade (Any), ​Trade
(Runesmith),​ Melee (Basic)
Talents:​Inscribe Minor Rune, Nimble Fingered,
Read/Write, Tinker
Trappings:​Apprenticeship Contract, Horse and Cart (to
carry Master’s anvil), 2 Minor Rune Scrolls o​ r​ 2 Minor Runic
Items, Trade Tools
Journeyman Runesmith – Gold 1
Skills: G
​ ossip, Perception, Research, Haggle, Evaluate, Melee
(Two-Handed)
Talents: ​Craftsman (Smith), Detect Runes, Rune Focus
(Any), Strike to Stun
Trappings:​Dictionary of Arcane Dwarf, Guild Licence, 4
Minor Rune Scrolls, Really Big Hammer
Master Runesmith – Gold 3
Skills: I​ntimidate, Secret Signs (Runesmith), Intuition,
Leadership
Talents:​Inscribe Master Rune, Master Tradesman
(Runesmith), Strike Mighty Blow, Tenacious
Trappings:​Apprentice, Keys to the Guildhouse, 4 Master
Rune Scrolls, Runic Anvil
Rune Lord – Gold 5
Skills:​Lore (Politics), Lore (Heraldry)
Talents:​Iron Will, Magnum Opus, Public Speaker, War
Leader
Trappings:​Bickering Entourage, Library of Rune Scrolls,
Lordly Regalia, Ornate Staff
‘Character Creation’​ by n
​ corva​ is licensed under ​CC BY-NC-ND 3.0
New rules for Runesmiths
Runesmiths require arcane applications of skill and
knowledge. As such there are some new Skills, Talents
and items — all unique to Runesmiths and integral to
their work as master forgers.
Skills
Language (Arcane Dwarf)​(​ Int)
Language (Arcane Dwarf) is the skill Runesmiths use to
read and understand Runes and Rune Scrolls. It
comprises a few different writing styles which broadly
cover the range of mystical and scholarly Dwarf Runes.
Using Language (Arcane Dwarf), you can read and
identify the Runes on an item or location. This also
covers the languages of incantation used during the
Binding phase of Runesmithing and is a mark of status
among members of the Runesmiths’ Guild.
Talents
Detect Runes
Max:​1
Test: ​Any Test to locate or identify a Runic Item
Perception and Intuition can be used by any Dwarf to
spot and recognise Runes, and no other species can do
this, since the knack for Runesmithing is alien to them.
However, the use of Detect Runes allows you to go
beyond this basic understanding to locate and identify
hidden Runic Items in your proximity (​Challenging
(+0) Canny Test​), identify their relative power or
limitations (​Challenging (+0) Lore (Runes) Test​),
determine their worth (​Challenging (+0) Evaluate
Test​) and even learn which Runesmith made them and
how long ago (​Challenging (+0) Trade (Runesmith)
Test​).
Inscribe Master Rune
Max:​1
You are now capable of learning Master Runes. You may
purchase Master Runes at the following experience
costs:
Master Runes Currently
Known Cost of New Master Rune
Up to Intelligence Bonus x 1 200xp
Up to Intelligence Bonus x 2 400xp
Up to Intelligence Bonus x 3 600xp
Up to Intelligence Bonus x 4 800xp
...and so on
Inscribe Minor Rune
Max:​1
You are now capable of learning Minor Runes. You
instantly learn and memorise one Minor Rune of this
Form when you first take this Talent, and thereafter can
purchase new Minor Rules for the following experience
costs:
Minor Runes Currently
Known Cost of New Minor Rune
Up to Willpower Bonus x 1 100xp
Up to Willpower Bonus x 2 200xp
Up to Willpower Bonus x 3 300xp
Up to Willpower Bonus x 4 400xp
...and so on
Rune Focus (Form)
Max: ​Dexterity Bonus
You are an expert at one of the four major Forms of
Runes. Choose one of the following Forms to be your
Focus: Armour, Engineering, Talisman or Weapon. You
reduce the Difficulty of all Crafting Endeavours,
including those involved in Runesmithing, of this Form
by one step per level in this Talent. Each repurchase
allows you to add a new Focus.
Items
Anvils of Doom
The Anvils of Doom are mythical items few Dwarfs will
see, let alone own. Forged of Gromril in the bowels of
Thunder Mountain, the Anvils cannot be purchased
and will only be gifted when a Runesmith reaches the
highest tiers of their profession. The Anvils of Doom
can only be used by Rune Lords who have put at least
+20 Advances into Language (Arcane Dwarf). They
must also have mastered at least five Master Runes.
These Rune Lords command utter devotion from their
guardians and have been known to bring them into
battle for the most spectacular attacks. The Anvils are
carried on wheeled platforms, usually positioned on high
ground, where the Rune Lord is protected by at least
two Rune Guards. The Rune Guards are oathbound to
never leave the Rune Lord or the Anvil, at any cost, and
will die protecting them.
An Anvil of Doom is used for Runecrafting, but can
also be lugged onto the battlefield by unlucky
apprentices if extra power is needed in combat. Striking
the Anvil as a Full Action can trigger the
combat-oriented Runes inscribed upon it. The secrets of
these Runes have long been forgotten and the only
existing copies are on the Anvils of Doom.
Rune of Hearth and Home:​Make a ​Challenging
(+0) Leadership Test​. You create an Area of Effect
equal to your Fellowship Bonus in yards, within a Range
equal to your Willpower in yards. All allies within that
AoE may reverse to succeed any failed Melee or Ranged
Test until the start of your next turn.
Rune of Oath and Steel:​Make a ​Challenging (+0)
Leadership Test​. You create an Area of Effect equal to
your Fellowship Bonus in yards within a Range equal to
your Willpower in yards. All allies within that AoE gain
+1 AP on all locations until the start of your next turn.
Rune of Wrath and Ruin:​Make a ​Challenging (+0)
Leadership Test​. This Rune produces a m​ agic missile
with a Range of Willpower yards. The ​magic missile​ has
an Area of Effect of Willpower Bonus yards and deals
+10 Damage.
Lordly Regalia
There are exceedingly few Lordly Regalia in existence,
each being a distinct set which cannot be copied. Larger
Dwarf settlements may have such grand regalia, but
most settlements have never even seen a Rune Lord, let
alone his hefty ceremonial gear. However, these sets are
so distinctive that no one could misinterpret their
meaning: this is an extremely powerful individual. Each
set of regalia is passed from Rune Lord to Rune Lord
upon election, and each new Rune Lord is only elected
after the last one dies.
Lordly Regalia are Exotic, Fine and Durable, and cannot
be bought or sold. They comprise a heavy ribbon chain,
made entirely from gold, from which is suspended a
medallion carrying the Rune of Election. From the
medallion hangs a thick gold badge with the coat of arms
of the Guild and thus the office of the Rune Lord.
The set is imbued with a tracking Rune known only by
the Rune Lords and a Rune of Communication ties the
pieces together. The Rune allows for an ​Easy (+40)
Perception Test​to immediately detect the item and its
location. It confers a Status bonus of +2 Gold among
Dwarfs (bringing the Rune Lord’s Status to Gold 7).
Illegal possession of Lordly Regalia will provoke Hatred
of the thief in any Dwarf who sees it and likely end in
gratuitously violent death.
Runic Anvil
Styled after the original Anvils of Doom, a Runic Anvil
is infused with magic to make it more efficient and
suitable for the long hours Master Runesmiths spend
with hammer in hand. No one but a Master Runesmith
can have their own true Runic Anvil, though lesser
anvils are used by Journeyman Runesmiths.
These anvils are bestowed by the Guild and only work
for their official owners. Apprentices transport these
heavy items by cart for their Masters. They load the
objects, without help, as part of their ‘training’, while the
Master stands back and offers colourful encouragement.
Possession of a Runic Anvil allows its owner to reverse
the dice of any failed Crafting Test, if it will score a
Success. All Runic Anvils have the Unbreakable Quality,
and may also have the Fine and Practical Qualities. Each
Runic Anvil will also possess three of the following
Runes: the Rune of Efficiency, the Rune of Elegance,
the Rune of Finesse, the Rune of the Furnace or the
Rune of Tempering.
Runic Anvils are Exotic items and cannot be purchased
or commissioned; they are gifted in exchange for signing
an exclusive employment contract with a Guild. Should
you ever leave the Guild, or be kicked out, you are
expected to return the Runic Anvil — or face the
consequences. The Runic Anvil is bestowed in a heavily
ritualised ceremony that involves hours of chanting and
the reciting of complex vows.
Runesmithing
Types of Runes
There are two types of Runes: Temporary and
Permanent. Temporary Runes are much quicker and
cheaper to produce but have a limited number of uses.
Once activated, Temporary Runic Items count as
Magical. When a Temporary Rune expires, it fades from
the Runic Item it was carved on and the item no longer
counts as Magical. Some particularly powerful
Temporary Runes completely destroy the item housing
them upon expiring.
Permanent Runes require expensive ingredients and
plenty of time to craft, but have a permanent effect.
Permanent Runes do not expire, and their items retain
their power forever. They always count as Magical.
Form
Every Rune has one of four main Forms: ​Armour
(armour), E
​ ngineering​(tools and machines), T​ alisman
(worn or displayed items such as pendants or rings) or
Weapon​(weapons). A Rune can only be imbued in an
item determined by its Form. Shields are an exception, in
that Armour, Talisman or Weapon Runes can be
inscribed upon them, at the GM’s discretion.
Materials
Materials for Runic Items should be robust. Leather and
wood are too soft for inscription; brittle substances like
glass are equally no use. Workable but sturdy materials
such as steel, silver, gold, bone or ivory are the most
common basis for Runic Items. Stone and gems are
usually only used in Talismanic Runes. Perhaps the best
material of all is meteoric iron — known to Dwarfs as
Gromril.
The materials required will be Rare for all Minor and
Temporary Runes. Permanent Master Runes always
require Exotic materials ('three drops of blood from a
Daemon and seven hairs given willingly from a High
Elf's head') which may spark whole adventures.
‘Daily Barter’​ by n
​ corva​ is licensed under C
​ C BY-NC-ND 3.0
Costs
A Permanent Runic Item needs to be forged for this
purpose – either by yourself or another Dwarf you trust.
It must be new, unused and of Fine Quality. It also
requires Rare materials, or Exotic materials if the
Permanent Rune is also a Master Rune. The Runic Item
itself counts as an Exotic Trapping when complete. The
cost of materials for a Permanent Rune is equal to the
Inscription Number in gold crowns (1 GC). An IN +5
Permanent Minor Rune would therefore cost 5 GC.
A Temporary Rune can be placed on any item of the
right Form, though the requirements are less exacting.
Neither type of item may have any Flaws. The cost of
materials for a Temporary Rune is equal to the
Inscription Number in shillings (1/-). So an IN 12
Temporary Minor Rune would cost 12/-.
If multiple Runes are inscribed in the same Runic Item,
their costs are cumulative. Neither cost factors in the
Runesmith’s time, if the Runesmith is selling their
goods. Rates are equal to the Runesmith’s Status tripled
for each full day of work. A Rune Lord, who has Status
Gold 5, would therefore charge 15 GC for his time.
Runes are not cheap and Rune Lords don’t need to
haggle.
The Rules of the Craft
General rules:​Each Runic Item must obey certain
rules. These are a combination of magical laws,
Runesmith superstition and Guild protocol.
1. The Rule of Form:​Each Rune Form can only
be inscribed upon an item which matches that
Form.
2. The Rule of Three:​No more than three Runes
can be used on any single Runic Item.
3. The Rune of Mastery:​Only one Master Rune
may appear on each Runic Item.
4. The Rule of Pride:​Each Runic Item should be
unique to that Runesmith. Except in a few
special cases where matching sets of items have
been made together, Runesmiths do not copy
their own prior work. Modified or improved
inventions are fine.
5. The Rule of Time:​While constructing a Runic
Item during an Endeavour, a Runesmith must
spend at least four hours per day on the project
or it will fail.
Learning and Purchasing Runes
Starting Runes
Once you purchase the Inscribe Minor Rune Talent,
you immediately learn one Minor Rune. More can be
purchased with Experience Points.
You can only learn Master Runes after purchasing the
Inscribe Master Rune Talent in the second level of the
Runesmith Career (Journeyman Runesmith). You do
not get one free Master Rune with this purchase but can
buy Master Runes with experience points.
Starting Runic Items
At character generation, each Apprentice Runesmith
can take two Minor Runic Scrolls o​ r​ two Minor Runic
Items. The Runic Scrolls would usually be Minor Runes
you currently have not learned but would like to learn or
use anyway. The Minor Runic Items can have one Rune
apiece, with no more than a total of IN 12 between
them.
Learning Runes as an Endeavour
Learning a new Rune requires an Endeavour and either a
Guild-sanctioned teacher, a Master willing to share their
knowledge or a Rune Scroll. Only the first two methods
are recommended by the Guild. Whichever method you
use, you may undertake no more than one Learning
Runes Endeavour per downtime.
Learning with a teacher
When learning a new Rune, you should make a single
Language (Arcane Dwarf)​to understand and
comprehend the Rune. Reading one of the five passages
relating to each Rune takes a minimum of 4 hours, so
the entire process takes at least 20 hours plus rest and
sleep. You must then commit the entirety to memory,
which requires several days of intense practice (taking up
the rest of the Endeavour).
If you succeed, you have learned the theory behind
crafting the Rune and can attempt to create it as normal
in your own time (typically a brand new Endeavour). If
you fail, you must start again but the new Endeavour
takes half the time.
The daily tuition fees for learning a new Minor Rune
equal your tutor’s status multiplied by 3. If you learn
under a Rune Master or Rune Lord, you can reverse the
roll to succeed at the end of the process instead.
Master Runes require twice the time to learn as Minor
Runes (i.e., two of your three possible Endeavours).
Learning without a tutor
To learn a Rune without a tutor, you must first
purchase a Rune Scroll and then succeed at a
Challenging (+0) Language (Arcane Dwarf) Test​, as
you read each of the five passages detailing construction
of the Rune. This takes a week as you attempt to
commit the Rune Scroll to memory. Failure means the
Rune Scroll is beyond your comprehension and you
have wasted your Endeavour. Success means you learn
the Rune.
Winging it
You can attempt to craft a Rune directly from a Rune
Scroll without learning it first, but the Inscription
Number and Empowerment Number are both doubled.
Subsequently, you can make a ​Hard (-20) Language
(Arcane Dwarf) Test ​to see if you retain the
knowledge. If you do, you learn the Rune.
Purchasing Rune Scrolls
Rune Scrolls may be purchased at any time, including
the M
​ oney to Burn​stage (WFRP4e, p.195) before your
Endeavours begin. The price is equal to a quarter of the
Inscription Number in Gold Crowns (round up).
Usually, Rune Scrolls are only sold to those with the
required rank (see Trappings for each level) and are
never sold to non-Dwarfs.
Runecrafting
Runecrafting is a slow and steady process, although the
right tools and environment can certainly help. Several
Runes and Talents may increase your chance of success,
add extra SLs or reduce the total time spent making a
Rune. In general, stacked bonuses from Runes and
Talents are capped at +60%. Extra SLs are not limited.
Talents and Runes that reduce the time taken to make a
Rune cannot themselves reduce the time to make a
Rune below 60% of normal (i.e., they can provide a may ignore any penalties you would otherwise receive
maximum -40% modifier). However, rolling well at for being of a lower Social Tier than your peers.
certain stages of the process can reduce the time spent Additionally, Runic Items are Magical, which grants
even further. them a couple of important benefits:

Inscription ● All attacks made with Runic Items count as

To make a Permanent Rune, you should follow the rules
for the ​Crafting Endeavour​(WFRP4E, p.197). The
number of SLs required to make the item is increased by
the Inscription Number (IN) of each Rune you wish to
add.
Magical attacks, meaning they can harm
creatures only susceptible to magic.
● Armour Points granted by Runic Items always
apply to Magical attacks that otherwise ignore
armour.

Each Permanent Rune must be carefully carved into an

item made for that purpose. The item must be Fine,
should ideally be Unbreakable or Impenetrable, and
cannot possess any Flaws. This means any Permanent
Rune requires a target of at least 20 SLs on an ​Extended
Trade (Runesmith) Test​to create the base item, b​ efore
you add any Runes.

Temporary Runes may be carved into any Fine item

without Flaws. Because the base item is already crafted,
you may make an inscription attempt by making an
Extended Trade (Runesmith) Test​, aiming to score as
many SLs as the IN +5. This makes Crafting Temporary
Runic Items much quicker, but at a cost. Once the Rune
expires, the item will be destroyed or, if Unbreakable,
gain a Flaw of the GM's choosing.

Both processes require an E

​ xtended Trade
(Runesmith) Test​. One Test can be made per
Endeavour for Permanent Runes and one test can be
made every four hours for Temporary Runes.

If any roll fails, you may try again later, but you will be
required to add +2 SLs to the target to correct any flaws
in the engraving. You may resume either on the next
Endeavour (Permanent Runes) or the next day
(Temporary Runes). ‘Dwarf Alchemist 2.0 - final’​ by ​Serg-Natos​ is licensed under​ CC BY-NC-ND 3.0

A Fumble on any roll in this step of the process will spoil

the engraving and render the item permanently unfit for
Runesmithing. A Critical Success at this stage allows you
to immediately finish the inscription and add one extra
Quality of your choosing.
There is prestige in using Runic Items that does not exist
for their mundane equivalents. If you carry one or more
Runic Items, while in the company of other Dwarfs, you
The Runes
Form:​This indicates whether the Rune is an Armour,
Engineering, Talismanic or Weapon Rune.
Inscription Number:​You must obtain this many extra
SLs when making an E ​ xtended Trade (Runesmith)
Test​to create the Runic Item.
Description (Permanent):​This is the permanent effect
that the Rune bestows. A Permanent Runic Item will
last forever, faithfully reproducing its effects, unless
destroyed.
Description (Temporary):​This is the temporary effect
that the Rune bestows once crafted. A Temporary Rune
can be used only once before fading away.
‘Watcher’​ by S​ erg-Natos​ is licensed under​ CC BY-NC-ND 3.0
Minor Runes
Rune of Accurate (Form)
Form: ​Engineering, Talisman or Weapon
Inscription Number:​+7
Description (Permanent):​This Rune can be applied
to many everyday items a Runesmith might use,
including Weapons and Trade Tools. Any Tests made
with this item gain a +10 bonus. Where relevant, you
may ignore Fumbles on even numbers while using this
item, treating them as failures instead. You may learn
this Rune multiple times to apply its bonus to a different
Form.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for a
single project.
Rune of Blasting
Form: ​Weapon
Inscription Number:​+5
Description (Permanent):​Arrows explode and pellets
shatter upon impact when weapons with the Rune of
Blasting are fired. A Ranged weapon bearing this Rune
gains the Blast Quality with a Rating of 1. This Rune
may be stacked up to three times.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute.
Rune of Cleaving
Form:​Weapon
Inscription Number:​+7
Description (Permanent):​Any Melee weapon bearing
this Rune gains the Hack Quality. Additionally, after
Armour and Toughness Bonus, the minimum Wounds
you inflict with a successful attack increases to 2.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute.
Rune of Communication
Form:​Any
Inscription Number:​+5
Description (Permanent):​A pair of items must be
created. You can speak through either item to the person
holding the other. If you want to create more than two
items at once, increase the IN by +2 for each additional
item. All the items will activate at the same time (you
can't choose which item from a set to contact). For
example, you might enable communication between a
sword and its sheath, or between a pair of gauntlets, or
between holders of matching coins.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute.
Rune of Competition
Form:​Engineering, Weapon
Inscription Number:​+3
Description (Permanent):​This Rune helps you beat
the competition and can be stacked up to three times.
When engaged in any relevant Opposed Test using this
item, you win all ties. If both parties have this Rune, the
person with the most copies of the Rune wins. If both
participants have an equal number of copies of this
Rune, then it goes to the person with the highest Trade
(Runesmith) Skill, regardless of which Skill was Tested.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for the
duration of a single Extended Test out of combat or a
single Opposed Test in combat.
‘Dwarf and his mount’​ by a​ lexandrecarod​ is licensed under ​CC BY-NC-ND 3.0
Rune of Defiance
Form:​Armour
Inscription Number:​+8
Description (Permanent):​All missile attacks that hit a
character wearing armour inscribed with this Rune
count as if they have the Undamaging Flaw.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute.
Rune of Detection
Form:​Engineering, Talismanic
Inscription Number:​+5
Description (Permanent):​This Rune can be affixed to
an item, such as a talisman or weathervane, which you
can then place on or above a threshold. You may even
prefer to apply it directly to metal or bone panelling
which is then permanently affixed to an entryway such
as a door or gate. If someone with malicious or injurious
intent approaches the item, it will either glow red or
make a warning noise (this must be decided during
crafting). The noise can be a message in your own voice,
if you wish.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one day.
Rune of Direction
Form:​Engineering, Talismanic
Inscription Number:​+5
Description (Permanent):​As an Action, you may use
the item bearing this Rune as a compass. While using
this compass, you may also reverse the dice of any failed
Navigation Test if it will score a Success.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but the
effects last for only one day.
Rune of Disclosure
Form:​Engineering, Talismanic
Inscription Number:​+8
Description (Permanent):​This Rune can be placed on
a box or container to create a fraud detector. Any fake,
deceptive, faulty or damaged items placed inside cause
the box to glow. Bags with false bottoms are detected, as
are counterfeit currency and documents.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated, the effects last for only one minute.
Rune of Distraction
Form: ​Weapon
Inscription Number:​+5
Description (Permanent):​Any weapon can be fitted
with this Rune, which menaces its targets and forces
them backwards. Your weapon gains the Distract
Quality. If the item already had the Distract Quality, you
add +2 SLs for the purposes of forcing opponents back.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute.
Rune of Efficiency
Form:​Engineering
Inscription Number:​+5
Description (Permanent):​This Rune makes tools and
machines more efficient. If you use this tool or machine,
tasks undertaken with it can be completed 10% faster.
This Rune can be stacked up to three times.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but the
Rune can only be used for one project.
Rune of Elegance
Form: ​Engineering
Inscription Number:​+10
Description (Permanent):​Tools inscribed with this
Rune gain improved efficacy. When making items with
the Fine Quality, you no longer need to add +5 to the
SLs required. Other Qualities add +5 as usual.
Additionally, you gain +1 SL on all Tests to use the item
for its intended purpose (hammers used as weapons will
not get this bonus; hammers used for crafting will).
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but can only
be used to craft one item.
Rune of Excellency
Form: ​Engineering, Weapon
Inscription Number:​+5
Description (Permanent):​A tool bearing this Rune
scores a Critical on any successful Test that rolls a '0' on
the units die, as well as on doubles. Weapons gain the
Impale Quality.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (by rolling a Critical with a ‘0’ on the
units die), the effects last for only one project out of
combat or one minute in combat.
Rune of Finesse
Form:​Engineering
Inscription Number:​+5
Description (Permanent):​This Rune imbues a tool
with the grace and skill to help with even the most
arduous of tasks. Gain +10 to your Dexterity as long as
you carry your tool. This stacks with the Rune of
Accurate Engineering but does not stack with itself.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute.
Rune of Forging
Form:​Engineering
Inscription Number:​+5
Description (Permanent):​A tool, such as a hammer,
inscribed with this Rune makes smithing more reliable.
Ignore any Fumbles on odd numbers when using this
item for forging; treat such results as failures instead.
This stacks with the Rune of Accurate Engineering.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for one
project.
Rune of Fire
Form:​Engineering, Weapon
Inscription Number:​+7
Description (Permanent):​Upon the wielder’s
command, a weapon or item inscribed with this Rune
burns with a small flame (a Free Action). This provides
the same illumination as a small torch, and the item
burns until commanded to stop or until the next sunrise
(whichever comes first). Additionally, a weapon with
this Rune gains the Distracting Quality and inflicts +1
Ablaze​ Condition upon its target per hit. When
activated, forge items (hammers, anvils) gain +2 SLs for
the purposes of creating with heat.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but can only
be used once.
Rune of Fortitude
Form:​Armour
Inscription Number:​+7
Description (Permanent):​When wearing armour
bearing this Rune, you gain extra Wounds equal to your
Toughness Bonus. If you remove the armour, these
Wounds are lost, but you can’t fall below 1 Wound in
this way.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for one
minute.
Rune of the Furnace
Form:​Talismanic
Inscription Number:​+10
Description (Permanent):​If bearing an item inscribed
with this Rune, you gain the I​ mmunity (Fire)​ Trait.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute.
Rune of Fury
Form:​Weapon
Inscription Number:​+10
Description (Permanent):​When wielding a weapon
bearing this Rune, you count as having the ​Fury​ Trait.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute.
Rune of Grudges
Form:​Weapon
Inscription Number:​+10
Description (Permanent):​Once per engagement, if
you wield a weapon bearing this Rune, you can
nominate one enemy as a Free Action. You are subject to
Hatred​ against this target and you can reverse the dice on
any failed attack made against your chosen foe, if it
would allow you to succeed.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated, the effects last for only one minute.
Rune of Iron
Form:​Armour
Inscription Number:​+5
Description (Permanent):​The Rune of Iron repels
lesser attacks. Your armour gains the Impenetrable
Quality. If your armour already has the Impenetrable
Quality, it loses the Weakpoints Flaw.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute.
Rune of Location
Form:​Engineering, Talismanic
Inscription Number:​+5
Description (Permanent):​Two items are created: one
the target and the other the seeker. Whoever holds the
seeker will immediately be able to sense the general
direction and distance of the target, provided it is within
one mile. For example, you can use this to connect your
hammer to your anvil, so that you can find it if lost or
stolen.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action) it can only be used
once and will last until sunrise.
Rune of Luck
Form:​Talismanic
Inscription Number:​+10
Description (Permanent):​While bearing an item
inscribed with this Rune, you temporarily increase your
maximum Fortune rating by +1. Whenever your
Fortune is fully restored, so is this extra point. If you
remove the item, the extra Fortune disappears as if it
were spent.
Description (Temporary):​You can activate this Rune
(a Free Action) to gain an extra Fortune Point. The item
is destroyed after a single use.
Rune of Might
Form:​Engineering, Weapon
Inscription Number:​+10
Description (Permanent):​Melee attacks with a
weapon bearing this Rune cause extra Damage equal to
your Strength Bonus. Any attempts to use a tool bearing
this Rune to craft with metal gain a +20 bonus.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute (Weapon) or for the duration of one project
(Engineering).
Rune of Overwhelming
Form: W ​ eapon
Inscription Number:​+8
Description (Permanent):​A weapon bearing this
Rune adds +20 to any roll on the Critical Injuries
Tables. If your opponent decides to deflect a blow with
this weapon, they sacrifice 2 AP instead of 1.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but can only
be used for the length of one combat encounter. You
can activate this Rune after rolling a critical.
Rune of Parrying
Form: ​Armour,​ W ​ eapon
Inscription Number:​+10
Description (Permanent):​If you wield a weapon or
shield bearing this Rune, you may spend 1 Resolve to
automatically parry an attack as if you had won with +1
SL on the Opposed Test. You must ordinarily be able to
parry the attack in question. You can choose to activate
this effect at any time before Damage is calculated.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated, it can only be used once. Your
Armour or Weapon is destroyed after use.
Rune of Precision
Form: ​Armour, Weapon
Inscription Number:​+5
Description (Permanent):​Melee weapons or shields
inscribed with this Rune gain the Precise Quality. If the
item already had the Precise Quality, the bonuses stack.
You can stack this Rune up to three times.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute.
‘Durin VI’​ by N
​ arog-art​ is licensed under ​CC BY-NC-ND 3.0
Rune of Presence
Form: A ​ rmour,​ ​Engineering,​ T
​ alismanic
Inscription Number:​+5
Description (Permanent):​While wearing this Rune,
others find you aglow with charm and magnetism. You
gain +1 SL on all successful Charm Tests. Alternatively,
if placed on a tool that you carry with you, others are
impressed by your obvious skill instead. You gain +1
Status, and among Dwarfs and artisans you gain an
additional +1 SL on successful Leadership Tests. You
may stack this Rune up to three times and its effects are
always active.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute.
Rune of Purity
Form: T​ alismanic
Inscription Number:​+8
Description (Permanent):​You gain +20 on all Tests to
avoid becoming corrupt.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but can only
be used for the first test for corruption that occurs and
then will expire.
Rune of Renewal
Form:​Engineering
Inscription Number:​+12
Description (Permanent):​This Rune provides power
where it is needed. It can be used to keep fires burning or
to keep a water wheel turning without current. By
spending 1 Resolve, the Rune will power mundane
things (a fire, a machine) for one full day. Runic or
magical items are powered only for an hour before the
charge depletes. By spending 1 Resilience, the Rune will
power machines or items for a full week.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one day.
Rune of Repeating
Form: W ​ eapon
Inscription Number:​+5
Description (Permanent):​Ranged weapons inscribed
with this Rune fire multiple times without the need for
reloading. The weapon gains the Repeater 1 Quality and
all attempts to reload it are made at a +20 bonus. This
Rune can be stacked up to three times.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute. one minute.

Rune of Restoration
Form: ​Armour,​ T ​ alismanic
Inscription Number:​+10
Description (Permanent):​Once per day you may rest
this Talisman on the head of an injured person and heal
their injuries. Make a C​ hallenging (+0) Language
(Arcane Dwarf) Test​. You heal Wounds equal to the
SLs. The Talisman usually recharges at the next dawn. If
placed into armour, this Rune will speed your natural
healing. After you are injured for the first time on any
given day, you will begin to heal one Wound per Round
until you are fully healed. You must keep the armour on
while you are healing and if you ever reach full health,
the Rune will stop and cannot be used again until the
next sunrise. By spending 1 Resolve, you may recharge
this Rune and use it again immediately.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action) and the healing
complete, it expires.

Rune of Shielding
Form: ​Armour,​ W ​ eapon
Inscription Number:​+7
Description (Permanent):​Melee weapons become arcs
of flashing metal, repelling the mightiest of attacks.
Armour gives off an uncanny sheen as it extends subtle
protection all around you. For some exceptional items,
even bullets and arrows can be repelled. Any weapon or
armour inscribed with this Rune gains the Shield 1
Quality. This Rune can be stacked up to three times,
allowing you to parry bullets with a sword.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute.
‘Dwarf’​ by ​ncorva​ is licensed under C
​ C BY-NC-ND 3.0
Rune of Spellbreaking
Form:​Armour, Talismanic
Inscription Number:​+10
Description (Permanent):​This Rune allows
Dispelling​(WFRP 4e, p.237) as if you were a
spellcaster, using Language (Arcane Dwarf)​ i​nstead of
Language (Magick). The Rune of Spellbreaking has no
effect on summoned Daemons or re-animated Undead.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last only for
the duration of a single Dispelling attempt.

Rune of Speed Rune of Stone

Form:​Weapon
Inscription Number:​+5
Description (Permanent):​Your weapon gains the Fast
Quality. If it already has the Fast Quality, you also gain
+1 Advantage on your first Action of any combat. If
both you and your opponent have weapons with the
Fast Quality, you may opt to use your Dexterity in place
of your Initiative to determine who acts first.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Form: A​ rmour
Inscription Number:​+10
Description (Permanent):​Armour bearing this Rune
provides +1 Armour Point to all its Hit Locations and
ignores the Hack and Impale Qualities.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute.
Rune of Striking
Form:​Weapon
Inscription Number:​+6
Description (Permanent):​Melee attacks (but not
defences) made with a weapon inscribed with this Rune
always have at least +1 Advantage.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute.
‘The stairs of UzgrimHal’​ by O
​ zakuya​ is licensed under ​CC BY-NC-ND 3.0
Rune of Tempering
Form: ​Engineering
Inscription Number:​+10
Description (Permanent):​Your favoured tool can
work even the hardiest materials. All manner of hardy
materials are malleable beneath your tool and may be
tempered with your Trade (Runesmithing) Skill. When
making items with the Unbreakable Quality, you no
longer need to add +5 to the SLs required. Other
Qualities add +5 as usual. Additionally, you gain +1 SL
on all Tests to use the item with hard materials such as
metals, gems and stones.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for the
duration of a single project.
Rune of Trapping
Form: W​ eapon
Inscription Number:​+7
Description (Permanent):​A weapon bearing this
Rune gains the Trap Blade Quality. Additionally, when
using the Trap Blade Quality, you may choose to add
your Dexterity Bonus to the Opposed Strength Test
instead of your SLs from the Melee Test.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute.
Rune of Unbreaking
Form: A​ ny
Inscription Number:​+7
Description (Permanent):​Items with this Rune gain
the Unbreakable Quality. In addition, you gain +20 to
any Tests to break things with your item (e.g., when
breaking down doors). You cannot add this Rune to an
item that already has the Unbreakable Quality.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute.
Rune of Warding
Form:​Armour, Talismanic
Inscription Number:​+8
Description (Permanent):​While wearing this Rune,
you gain the Trait Ward (8+) against magic. This Rune
may be stacked up to three times. Each copy decreases
the Rating by 1.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute.
Rune of Warning
Form: A ​ rmour,​ ​Talismanic
Inscription Number:​+10
Description (Permanent):​You can never be surprised
or gain the ​Surprised​ Condition in combat. You will
always get to take an action or reaction in combat when
ambushed.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute.
Rune of Wrath
Form: ​Weapon
Inscription number:​+10
Description (permanent):​Any weapon bearing this
Rune gains the Impact Quality. Additionally, when
using the weapon, you may opt to add your Dexterity
Bonus to the Damage instead of the rolled SLs.
Description (temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute.
Master Runes
Master Rune of Adamant
Form:​Armour
Inscription Number:​+20
Description (Permanent):​Armour bearing this Rune
gains the Shield 3 Quality. If the armour already has a
Shield Rating from another Rune, increase the Rating
by +3 (to a maximum of Shield 6). Additionally, you
may spend 1 Resolve to completely negate Damage up
to or equal to your Willpower Bonus.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute.
Master Rune of Alaric the Mad
Form:​Weapon
Inscription Number:​+25
Description (Permanent):​Attacks made by a weapon
bearing this Rune always ignore all Armour Points, even
if the armour cannot usually be ignored.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute. The Rune must be activated before you roll
to hit. In the case of Talents such as Riposte or Reaction
Strike which allow a reactive attack, you must activate
the Rune at the same time you declare you are using the
Talent.
Master Rune of Authority
Form:​Armour
Inscription Number:​+15
Description (Permanent):​This Rune is fixed to
armour or a shield. Whenever an opponent engages you,
he must first make a C
​ hallenging (+0) Cool Test​to
strike you, gaining more SLs than your Fellowship
Bonus (this is a Free Action). If he fails, he suffers a -20
penalty to hit.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute.
Master Rune of Balance
Form:​Armour, Talismanic
Inscription Number:​+25
Description (Permanent):​Only Runesmiths can use
an item inscribed with this Rune. You gain the Trait
Ward (6+) against magical or ranged attacks. By
spending 1 Resolve, you can use your Action to extend
the effect over an Area of Effect equal to your Willpower
Bonus in yards until the start of your next turn. This
Rune stacks with the Rune of Warding, further
reducing the Rating (minimum Ward (3+)).
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute.
Master Rune of Banishment
Form:​Weapon
Inscription Number:​+25
Description (Permanent):​This Rune is usually affixed
to a weapon of silver, and is used against both corporeal
and ethereal Undead. A single Wound inflicted by this
weapon is enough to slay the creature outright.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute.
Master Rune of Breaking
Form:​Weapon
Inscription Number:​+25
Description (Permanent):​If you win an Opposed
Melee Test by more SLs than your opponent’s Strength
Bonus, you can opt to break their weapon. This replaces
any Damage if you were attacking. If the weapon is
Magical or has the Unbreakable Quality, you may
disarm your opponent instead. By spending 1 Resolve,
you can destroy a non-magical weapon too.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effect works only
once. The wielder can activate the Rune after making
the O
​ pposed Melee Test​.
Master Rune of Challenge
Form:​Talisman
Inscription Number:​+20
Description (Permanent):​This Rune allows you to
issue a challenge to an enemy which all but the strongest
wills cannot resist. Use an Action to issue your challenge,
waving your weapon in the air or yelling taunts as
appropriate. Your opponent must pass a C ​ hallenging
(+0) Cool Test​, rolling more SLs than your Willpower
Bonus. If your foe fails, they must fight you or gain the
Surprised​ Condition. If they fight you, you go first and
gain +1 Advantage.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), it can only be used
once.
Master Rune of Crafting
Form:​Engineering
Inscription Number:​+20
Description (Permanent):​This Rune is inscribed
upon a tool, usually a hammer, that the Runesmith
intends to use more than any other. Once created, the
Rune helps cement your connection to the tool so that it
becomes an extension of your own body. The Rune
demands that you carry the tool with you at all times —
you must even sleep with it. In return, the Rune rewards
this faithfulness: the tool can now be used in combat or
physical competitions that require the tool-wielding
arm, allowing you to use Trade (Runesmith) in place of
another Skill. It does not count as an improvised weapon
in combat, it can be used to add force and grace to
athletic endeavours, and it can be used in feats of
strength to break down doors or bowl over enemies. You
are encouraged to be creative in including your tool in
the relevant action.
Description (Temporary):​This cannot be a
Temporary Rune.
Master Rune of Daemon Slaying
Form:​Weapon
Inscription Number:​+30
Description (Permanent):​This Rune, fixed to any
two-handed weapon, is used to banish Daemons. A
single Wound inflicted by this weapon is enough to slay
the creature outright.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), it can only be used
once.
Master Rune of Darts
Form:​Weapon
Inscription Number:​+15
Description (Permanent):​This Rune allows a single
ranged weapon (excluding those with the Blackpowder
Quality) to fire ​magic missiles​ instead of using
ammunition. The missile has identical Damage, Range,
Qualities and Flaws to the weapon’s standard
ammunition but never runs out. You can ignore the
Reload and Repeater Qualities. Alternatively, the Rune
can be engraved into a gauntlet to allow the Dwarf to
throw m​ agic missiles​ that otherwise act as darts.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute.
Master Rune of Defence
Form:​Armour, Talismanic
Inscription Number:​+30
Description (Permanent):​When activated with a drop
of your own blood, this Rune will create a Ward (3+)
against all missile attacks, including m
​ agic missiles​. It will
remain active for an hour and then cannot be used again
until the next sunrise. By spending 1 Resolve, you may
recharge this Rune and use it again immediately.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated, the effects last for only one minute.
The Runic Item is destroyed after use.
Master Rune of Deterrence (Type)
Form:​Armour
Inscription Number:​+20
Description (Permanent):​This Rune is fixed to
armour or a shield. So long as it is worn, no creature of
the type chosen can come within a number of yards of
you equal to your Willpower Bonus without winning an
Opposed Cool Test​. Types include Orcs, Goblins,
Ethereal Undead, Skaven, Dwarfs, etc. This can be
purchased multiple times to repel multiple creature
types.
(Temporary):​As permanent, but once the Rune is
activated, the effects last for only one minute.
Master Rune of Diamond
Form:​Armour
Inscription Number:​+18
Description (Permanent):​The armour bearing this
Rune confers an effective Toughness Bonus of 10 for
the purposes of Damage reduction. Your Toughness
Bonus reduces Damage even against weapons or attacks
that would normally ignore Toughness.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
‘The last stand’​ by ​ncorva​ is licensed under ​CC BY-NC-ND 3.0
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute.
Master Rune of Dismay
Form:​Talismanic
Inscription Number:​+20
Description (Permanent):​This Rune can only be
inscribed on a war horn or drum. Using an Action to
blow the horn (or beat the drum), you may make a
Challenging (+0) Leadership Test​. If you succeed,
you and any allies gain the Fear 1 Trait for one turn. For
every +2 SLs scored, increase the Fear Rating by +1.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated, the effects last for only one minute.
Master Rune of Dragon Slaying
Form:​Weapon
Inscription Number:​+35
Description (Permanent):​This Rune is used to
destroy dragons. A single Wound inflicted by this
weapon is enough to slay the creature outright.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), it only works once.
The Runic Item is destroyed after being used once.
Master Rune of Duplication
Form:​Engineering
Inscription Number:​+25
Description (Permanent):​This Rune can be placed on
a container to create a perfect copying machine. Once
per day, any items, documents or materials placed inside
the box will be duplicated. Duplicated items of personal
or minor value, such as a hand-written manuscript or
everyday clothing, will survive indefinitely. Copies of
tradeable or essential items, including food or legal
documents, will always dissipate within 24 hours or
‘Champion of the dragon clan’​ by ​ncorva​ is licensed under ​CC BY-NC-ND 3.0
recharge this Rune and use it again immediately.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated, it can only be used to copy a single
item.
Master Rune of Fate
Form:​Armour, Talismanic
Inscription Number:​+30
Description (Permanent):​This Rune can only be
engraved upon a gem worth at least 100 GC and the gem
must be worn to have its effect. The first attack each day
that would otherwise reduce the bearer to zero Wounds
or fewer is completely negated — as if you’d spent a Fate
until they are used (a weapon vanishes when wielded,
food turns to air in the mouth, a passport vanishes once
you cross the border, etc). By spending 1 Resolve, you
may
Point. A Critical Wound to the Hit Location closest to
the gem may result in its damage. Roll a d100. A roll of
96-00 means the gem is struck and destroyed.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated for the first time, it expires.
Master Rune of Fear
Form:​Armour, Talismanic
Inscription Number:​+20
Description (Permanent):​Whenever you Charge or
gain a Free Attack, you induce Fear 2 in your enemies
and Terror in anyone who is engaged with you.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but can only
be used for the duration of one combat encounter.
Master Rune of Fire
Form:​Engineering, Weapon
Inscription Number:​+21
Description (Permanent):​Upon the wielder’s
command, a weapon or item inscribed with this Rune
bursts into flame (a Free Action). This provides the same
illumination as a brazier or large torch, and the item
burns until commanded to stop or until the next sunrise
(whichever comes first). Additionally, a weapon with
this Rune gains the Distract and Impact Qualities while
flaming, and inflicts +2 A
​ blaze​ Conditions upon its
target per hit. When activated, forge items (hammers,
anvils) gain +4 SLs for the purposes of creating with
heat.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but can only
be used once.
Master Rune of Flight
Form:​Weapon
Inscription Number:​+15
Description (Permanent):​This Rune can only be
inscribed on a hammer. You can throw the hammer for
SB+3 Damage (or SB+4 for a Warhammer) and always
count Ranged (Throwing) as a Basic Skill. The hammer
has a range of Willpower yards, and always returns to
your hand at the end of your turn. It retains its usual
Qualities and Flaws. This Rune stacks with the Master
Rune of Crafting.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute.
Master Rune of the Forge
Form:​Engineering
Inscription Number:​+25
Description (Permanent):​Only Runesmiths can use
an item inscribed with this Rune. The item must be
fixed to a permanent location in your forge or home.
Thereafter, you gain the Trait Ward (3+) against all
magical or ranged attacks in that location. If the item is
ever removed or destroyed, the Ward dissipates.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one hour.
Master Rune of Gromril
Form:​Armour
Inscription Number:​+35
Description (Permanent): W ​ hen wearing armour
bearing this Rune, and for the purposes of resolving
Damage only, your Size counts as two steps larger.
Additionally, you may spend 1 Resolve to become
immune to all Damage for one minute or 1 Resilience to
become immune to all Damage for one hour.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute.
Master Rune of Groth One-Eye
Form:​Armour, Talismanic
Inscription Number:​+35
Description (Permanent):​Once per day, you can use
your Action to make your allies immune to Psychology,
Intimidation and the B​ roken​ Condition. They will also
be immune to a number of ​Fatigue​ Conditions equal to
your Willpower Bonus. This lasts a number of turns
equal to your Fellowship Bonus and can be recharged by
spending 1 Resolve.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute.
Master Rune of Healing
Form: A ​ rmour, Talismanic
Inscription Number:​+20
Description (Permanent):​This Rune has a healing
effect when worn. Every time you are injured in combat,
you will automatically regenerate 1 Wound for each
blow you suffered at the start of the next round. For
example, if you were struck three times, you would
regain 3 Wounds at the start of the next turn. Out of
combat, you can spend 1 Resolve to heal a number of
Wounds equal to your Willpower Bonus or 1 Resilience
to heal all Wounds.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute or until you are fully healed (whichever
comes first).
Master Rune of Hiding
Form:​Armour, Talismanic
Inscription Number:​+20
Description (Permanent):​This Rune allows you to
use your Action to hide yourself completely. It will last
until the next dawn, provided you stay relatively still and
quiet. If you make any large or sudden movements, or
make any noise louder than a whisper, the effect ends
and cannot be used again until the next day. By spending
1 Resolve, you may recharge this Rune and use it again
immediately.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute.
‘Fantasy Portraits 7’​ by T
​ iny Secret Door​ is licensed under ​CC BY-NC-ND 3.0
Master Rune of Illusion
Form:​Armour, Talismanic
Inscription Number:​+20
Description (Permanent):​Once per day, you may use
your Action to temporarily change your appearance.
The most common reason to do so is to make yourself
monstrous, which will cause Fear 3. You may also
approximate the appearance of someone you know well
with a ​Hard (-10) Entertain (Acting) Test​, which
cannot be opposed if successful. The effect will last for a
number of Rounds equal to your Willpower Bonus. By
spending 1 Resolve, you may recharge this Rune and use
it again immediately.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute.
Master Rune of Immolation
Form:​Any
Inscription Number:​+20
Description (Permanent):​This is usually a
supplementary Rune and can be engraved on a Runic
Item with one other Master Rune, in an exception to the
usual Rule of Mastery. If your item is stolen, it
immediately combusts, causing +10 Damage and +3
Ablaze​ Conditions. Family and friends who move the
item, or clean it, will not trigger this effect provided
there is no malicious intent. If the item does not possess
the Unbreakable Quality, it is destroyed. If it does, it
remains undamaged from the blast.
Description (Temporary):​This Rune only has a
Permanent effect.
Master Rune of Kadrin
Form:​Talismanic
Inscription Number:​+25
Description (Permanent):​This Rune allows you to
re-roll any attack roll where you fail by 20 or less. Once
per day, you may use your Action and make a
Challenging (+0) Leadership Test​to extend this
effect to every ally who can see you for one turn. By
spending 1 Resolve, you may recharge this second effect
of the Rune and use it again immediately.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), it can only be used
once.
Master Rune of Kingship
Form:​Talismanic
Inscription Number:​+35
Description (Permanent):​This Rune is highly
prestigious and extremely rare. It must be inscribed on a
crown, and such an artefact is given to only the mightiest
Dwarf Lords. If you wear this crown, once per day you
can use your Action to make a number of allies equal to
your Fellowship Characteristic immune to Psychology
and Intimidation for a minute. They must be within line
of sight for the duration of the effect. If you are not a
true Dwarf Lord, the crown will not work and will
instead cause ​Fury i​ n all Dwarfs who see you. By
spending 1 Resolve, you may recharge this Rune and use
it again immediately.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated, the crown dissolves to sparkling dust.
Master Rune of Locking
Form:​Talismanic
Inscription Number:​+15
Description (Permanent):​You place this Rune on a
closed entryway. Thereafter, it cannot be opened except
by you or anyone who has the Master Rune of Opening.
The door may be broken down as usual, but attempts to
do so require twice as much Damage.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one hour.
Master Rune of Opening
Form:​Talismanic
Inscription Number:​+15
Description (Permanent):​This Rune can open any
locked door — even one sealed with the Master Rune of
Locking. If used to open a door locked by the Master
Rune of Locking, you can make an ​Opposed Canny
Test​against the person who locked the door. If you win,
the door opens. If opposing a spellcaster who has used a
spell to lock the door, this Rune will allow you to
attempt to dispel it instead with Language (Arcane
Dwarf).
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once
activated (a Free Action) this Rune can only be used to
open one door.
Master Rune of Passage
Form:​Armour, Engineering, Talisman
Inscription Number:​+15
Description (Permanent):​This Rune can be placed on
any portable item that can be carried on your person.
While held or worn (i.e., not in a bag or stowed), this
Rune reduces the difficulty of crossing any type of
terrain by one step (so ​Very Hard (-20)​becomes ​Hard
(-10)​and C​ hallenging (+0)​becomes ​Average (+20)​).
Once stowed again, the effect ends.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for one
hour.

Master Rune of Might

Form:​Weapon
Inscription Number:​+15
Description (Permanent):​You may add the higher of
your Willpower Bonus or your opponent’s Toughness
Bonus as extra Damage when attacking with any Melee
weapon bearing this Rune. This Rune stacks with the
Rune of Might.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute.
 the Runic Item is prepared, a quantity of the substance
which fits in your cupped palms is sacrificed into the
Aethyr. Thereafter, the container may generate more of
the substance every day. To receive this benefit, roll
1d100 once per day. On a roll of 01-75, the container
will produce two cupped handfuls of that substance or
item per SL rolled. So if you sacrificed water and rolled
+5 SLs on the first day, the container would generate 10
cupped handfuls of water.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once
activated (a Free Action), the Rune can only be used
once.

‘Dwarf King of the Unicorns’​ by ​jameszapata​ is licensed under C

​ C BY-NC-ND 3.0

Master Rune of Personality

Form:​Armour
Inscription Number:​+20
Description (Permanent):​This armour adds your
Fellowship Bonus to your Wounds. Once per day, you
may make a ​Challenging (+0) Leadership Test​. If you
succeed, all allies in line of sight gain the same benefit for
one round per SL. By spending 1 Resolve, you may
recharge this Rune and use it again immediately.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute.

Master Rune of Plenty

Form:​Engineering
Inscription Number:​25
Description (Permanent):​This Rune is placed on a
large container fit for holding one substance or item
(arrows, porridge, water, bullets, etc). The container
should be no bigger than you and the substance can be
no more expensive weight for weight than bullets. When
Master Rune of Reaction
Form:​Armour
Inscription Number:​+20
Description (Permanent):​Each time you are struck in
Melee, your armour sends a jolt of electricity shooting
through the attacker, inflicting Wounds equal to your
Fellowship Bonus. This ignores all non-metal armour.
Metal armour also adds the sum of its APs to the
Wounds taken, as it conducts the electricity throughout
your attacker’s body. For example, a target wearing
Breastplate (3 APs) and a Helm (1 AP) would take
Wounds equal to your Fellowship Bonus + 4. Creatures
‘Dwarf slayers’​ by M
​ alvino​ is licensed under C
​ C BY-NC-ND 3.0
immune to electricity or Magical attacks are immune to
this reaction.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute.
Master Rune of Resistance (Weapon Group)
Form:​Armour
Inscription Number:​+30
Description (Permanent):​This Rune renders your
armour impervious to attacks from one type of weapon.
‘Dwarf Lord​’ by A
​ hmetCanKahraman​ is licensed under ​CC BY-NC-ND 3.0
Choose a Weapon Group from the Melee or Ranged
lists (​WFRP4e pp.294-5​) when you learn this Rune.
You may purchase this multiple times to obtain
immunity to different Weapon Groups but only one of
these Master Runes can be inscribed per piece of
armour, as usual. The immunity is Hit Location-specific
so only Runes placed on a shield will protect all
locations.
For example, you can learn Master Rune of Resistance
(Parry) and apply it to your shield. Provided you make
your Opposed Test with the shield, a swordbreaker will
do no harm.
Then you could buy Resistance (Brawling) and add it to
your breastplate. If a brawl attack hits your body, you
will likewise be unaffected.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one hour.
Master Rune of Sanctuary
Form:​Talismanic
Inscription Number:​+20
Description (Permanent):​This talisman is usually
fixed to the crossbar of a standard, fixed into a helmet or
crown, or otherwise worn on display in a visible place.
You must make a C ​ hallenging (+0) Leadership Test​.
Any ally who can see the talisman gains +10 bonus to
resisting magic (if they can normally resist it) or the
temporary ability conferred by the Magic Resistance
Talent (if they cannot). This lasts for a number of turns
equal to the SLs rolled. The talisman can only be used Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
once per day and recharges at dawn. By spending 1 one minute​.
Resolve, you may recharge this Rune and use it again
immediately.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but can only
be used once.

Master Rune of Seeking

Form:​Weapon
Inscription Number:​+20
Description (Permanent):​This Rune can be inscribed
onto any ranged weapon. It allows you to make one
perfect missile attack without making a Test. Once per
day you, you may use your Action to activate this ability.
The missile will hit with SLs equal to your Ballistic Skill
Bonus. It can still be opposed with Dodge or a shield, if
such defences are applicable. By spending 1 Resolve,
you may recharge this Rune and use it again
immediately.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute.
‘Choose the winner! Dwarf girl vs Goblin?’​ by ​effix35​ is licensed under ​CC
Master Rune of Skalf Blackhammer BY-NC-ND 3.0

Form:​Weapon
Master Rune of Skewering
Inscription Number:​+20
Form:​Weapon
Description (Permanent):​The weapon bearing this
Inscription Number:​+20
Rune gains the Impale and Impact Qualities, if it didn't
Description (Permanent):​When using a bow or
have them before. Additionally, after winning an
crossbow bearing this Rune, your ammunition gains the
Opposed Melee Test, you may spend 1 Resolve to inflict
Penetrating and Impact Qualities, if it didn’t have them
a deadly blow dealing extra Damage equal to the total
before. Additionally, you may spend 1 Resolve to
number of Wounds you have lost.
increase the minimum Damage after Armour Points and
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Toughness Bonus have been deducted to your Strength
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the Qualities last for
Bonus.
only one minute. The deadly blow effect must be
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
activated before this minute expires.
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
Master Rune of Skewering one minute​.
Form:​Weapon
Master Rune of Smiting
Inscription Number:​+20
Form:​Weapon
Description (Permanent):​When using a bow or
Inscription Number:​+15
crossbow bearing this Rune, your ammunition gains the
Description (Permanent):​This Rune must be
Penetrating and Impact Qualities, if it didn’t have them
inscribed on a melee weapon. Once per day, it can be
before. Additionally, you may spend 1 Resolve to
activated with a Free Action and doubles any SLs rolled
increase the minimum Damage after Armour Points and
on Melee Tests for a number of turns equal to your
Toughness Bonus have been deducted to your Strength
Willpower Bonus. By spending 1 Resolve, you may
Bonus.
recharge this Rune and use it again immediately.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), it can only be used your Willpower Bonus.
once. Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for no
Master Rune of Snorri Spangelhelm more than one minute.
Form:​Weapon
Inscription Number:​+35
Description (Permanent):​With a little effort, this
weapon always strikes true. You can spend 1 Resolve or
all Advantage (minimum 3) to automatically win any
Opposed Melee Test with a number of SLs equal to your
Weapon Skill Bonus.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), it can only be used
once.

Master Rune of Spelleating

Form:​Armour, Talismanic
Inscription Number:​+30
Description (Permanent):​This Rune works as does
the Rune of Spellbreaking, but the caster of any spell
that is successfully Dispelled cannot cast that spell again
for 24 hours.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), it can only be used
once.

Master Rune of Spite

Form:​Armour, Talismanic
Inscription Number:​+35 ‘Dwarven warrior in a cold lit dungeon’​ by ​MatBirdie​ is licensed under C
BY-NC-ND 3.0
​ C

Description (Permanent):​After being hit for the first

time in combat, you immediately gain the Belligerent
and Champion Traits, plus additional APs equal to your
Willpower Bonus on all Hit Locations. This applies even
against effects that normally ignore armour. The effect
expires once combat ends and cannot be used again until
the next dawn. By spending 1 Resolve, you may recharge
this Rune and use it again immediately.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute.
Master Rune of Stalwarts
Form:​Armour, Talismanic
Inscription Number:​+18
Description (Permanent):​This Rune is worn as a
talisman or as armour. When worn, you may use either
the tens or units die for your SLs on any Willpower Test.
Additionally, you may spend 1 Resolve to become
immune to Psychology for a number of Rounds equal to
Master Rune of Stealth
Form:​Armour, Talismanic
Inscription Number:​+15
Description (Permanent):​This Rune allows you to
move with greater Stealth. You may take a Free Action
to activate the Runic Item and gain +20 on all Stealth
Tests for an hour. This Rune can only be used once per
day. By spending 1 Resolve, you may recharge this Rune
and use it again immediately.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute.
Master Rune of Steel
Form:​Armour
Inscription Number:​+30
Description (Permanent):​You may ignore your first
Critical Wound of any combat. You may re-roll any
subsequent Critical Wound and pick the better result.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), it can only be used
once.
Master Rune of Stromni Redbeard
Form:​Talismanic
Inscription Number:​+20
Description (Permanent):​This Rune was made in the
days of Bael, Lord of Karak Azul. Activate the Rune
with a Free Action and thereafter any ally who can see it
will always have a minimum of 1 Advantage. This lasts
for a number of turns equal to your Willpower Bonus. It
can only usually be used once per day. By spending 1
Resolve, you may recharge this Rune and use it again
immediately.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute.
Master Rune of Swiftness
Form:​Weapon
Inscription Number:​+25
Description (Permanent):​You can spend +1
Advantage to make a Free Attack once per turn at any
point in the initiative order. Your weapon gains the Fast
Quality if it didn’t already have it.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute.
Master Rune of Transformation
Form:​Engineering, Weapon
Inscription Number:​+15
Description (Permanent):​This Rune allows you to
use an Action to transform your weapon or tool into any
smaller item, provided it does equal or less Damage. In
this way, a sword can be turned into a dart and easily
hidden. A chisel could be turned into a nail for easy
escapes from prison. The effect lasts either until the
bearer reverses it or until the next dawn.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), it can only be used
once.
Master Rune of Valaya
Form:​Armour, Talismanic
Inscription Number:​+35
Description (Permanent):​You may use your Action
to create a ward against magic. All magic against you and
your allies will automatically fail. The ward will last for a
number of turns equal to your Willpower Bonus. It may
only be used once per day. By spending 1 Resolve, you
may recharge this Rune and use it again immediately.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), it can only be used
once.
Master Rune of Valour
Form:​Any
Inscription Number:​+20
Description (Permanent):​This Rune can be placed on
any item worn or carried in everyday use (including your
trade tools). When in contact with this item, you may
use your Action to activate it. Doing so makes you
immune to all Psychology, and you automatically
succeed on any Willpower or Cool Tests as if you had
rolled a number of successes equal to your Willpower
Bonus. The effect lasts for one minute and can only be
used once per day. By spending 1 Resolve, you may
recharge this Rune and use it again immediately.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute.
Master Rune of War
Form:​Talisman, Weapon
Inscription Number:​+20
Description (Permanent):​This Rune can be activated
with a Free Action once per day, but only during
combat. It confers a temporary +20 Fellowship bonus
and the ability to treat any Melee Skill as known for the
next hour. By spending 1 Resolve, you may recharge this
Rune and use it again immediately.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute.
Master Rune of Wisdom
Form:​Talisman
Inscription Number:​+20
Description (Permanent):​This Rune can be activated
with a Free Action once per day. It confers a temporary
+20 Intelligence bonus and the ability to treat any Lore
as known for the next hour. By spending 1 Resolve, you
may recharge this Rune and use it again immediately.
Description (Temporary):​As permanent, but once the
Rune is activated (a Free Action), the effects last for only
one minute.
‘Dwarf’​ by A
​ legion​ is licensed under ​CC BY-NC-ND 3.0