Bane Weapons

[Lorimez]

Hi.

I can't seem to find out what mechanically a bane weapon does. I understand it is better with certain foes i.e. spiders but what does it do in the game? I've looked in the Rivendell book and can;t seem to find a rules reference . . .

Thanks!

[zedturtle]

Certain enchantments require a Bane and only activate if the Bane is present. For example, a sword might only illuminate when Orcs are present, etc.

[cuthalion]

Mmm--was just about to say--see p. 96 of Riv:

Bane weapons have been wrought to defeat a specific enemy. If the magical item is of Elven or Númenórean craftsmanship, then it must be attributed with one or more Banes, as several of the special virtues that may be attributed to it are effective only against Bane creatures (see Enchanted Qualities, on page 98).

Then look at the list of qualities pp.98-- Some only apply to bane creatures.

Sting's bane is towards Orcs, e.g--see p.108. I.e. it doesn't glow when dragons are near.