Loremaster's Satchel

Loremaster's Satchels are magical devices used by Loremasters and Lorekeepers (and occasionally members of the Guild of Loremasters in other roles). They typically contain writing implements, books, notebooks, maps, special texts, and sometimes small oddities or souvenirs of their travels.

Each satchel is magically linked to a specific person, and only they can open the satchel and retrieve its contents. Owners can transfer their ownership to another person, but this must be done willingly. (Satchels refuse the transfer if the owner is reluctant.) If an owner happens to die before transferring ownership, the satchel is taken to one of the guild's Grand Libraries where, presumably, they have a method to either open the satchel or reassign it to another.

The satchels are of varying shapes and sizes — ranging from the size of a purse that should barely hold a single notebook and writing pen to a large travel backpack. Despite their size, they can contain any number of items, although only items that can fit within the satchel's opening. But unless its owner is particularly organized (or possesses the appropriate magical talents), it may take them a few minutes (or more) to locate a specific item from among the many within the depths of the satchel.

Most Loremasters keep only their current projects and key reference works in their satchel while Lorekeepers are often heard muttering in exasperation or sighing in resignation as they search — and search. (To be fair, Lorekeepers generally travel long distances and usually require many blank notebooks and extensive reference books.) But even Lorekeepers must prune their collection periodically — either leaving the discarded books and notebooks in their assigned quarters or one of the Guild's many libraries.

The medium-sized satchels, the most common, are draped from the shoulder on a long strap. Smaller satchels may hang from a short strap attached to the belt. And larger satchels are worn on the back like a travel backpack.