New Magic Item: Checkhov's Gun

     This might be a terrible idea, but it might also be awesome. I am reading Sabriel By Garth Nix, and right around page 80 something reminded me of Anton Checkhov's theory of gun control. This has not been play tested, and is written off-the-cuff.

Checkhov's Gun
Usable by: Bard Only

Checkhov's Gun is an artifact, possibly named for it's discoverer or creator. It can appear as any missile weapon that is campaign appropriate. It can be used normally and functions as a +1 weapon or +3 in the hands of a talented bard.

The Gun's real power comes when it is talked about or displayed prominently. If an NPC or PC discusses the weapon or reveals it's existence to any PC or NPC, it must be used before the end of the current game session, or it will disappear from the wielder's possession and appear someplace else to await a new wielder.

If the weapon is used after being revealed or discussed, the wielder will find it loaded, cocked, and ready to fire the instant it's needed. Then a d20 will be rolled to hit with the usual modifiers.

     Critical Miss - The projectile will hit someone or something unintended in spectacularly dramatic        fashion and slay or destroy that person or thing outright with no saving throw permitted.

     Miss- As above, but the damage done to the person or object is a critical hit.

     Hit- Automatic Critical Hit on the intended target.

     Nat 20- Whatever was being shot is instantly obliterated/killed/Destroyed with no saving throw          permitted.

Whatever happens next, it needs to be dramatic. That's on the DM, but if your bard is performing up-to-snuff, you may want to throw him inspiration or something.