Quarterstaff

“Unfortunately, not everyone adheres to the order that is pleasing unto Praios, and lives according to his laws. Weapons are anathema to the merciful Lady Peraine, but you need not be defenseless against the world’s dangers. Let your weapon be a staff. Defend yourself with it, but never cause more harm than you are able to heal.”
— Selma, Blessed One of Peraine, to one of her pupils, modern

The quarterstaff is popular with traveling scholars, merchants, healers, and adventurers because it serves both as a walking stick and as a weapon. It is often overlooked because it tends to be carried by people who look relatively harmless—until they smash you on the shins and knock you down.

Quarterstaves come in many versions. Often, they are wrapped with leather or cord to foster a better grip. Some people fasten solid metal caps on their ends, while others carry staves that are little more than roughly hewn branches.

“It’s basically the same as a mage’s staff, but without magic.”

— Carolan Calavanti, Vinsaltan vagabond

“Not quite. Mages’ staves are, admittedly, unbalanced, but they are still quite capable of the kinds of attacks you make with a quarterstaff.”

— Mirhiban al’Orhima, Tulamydian fire mage