Bracers of Blocking

Wondrous Item, rare (requires attunement)

These polished steel bracers are engraved with interlocking shield motifs. Legends claim they were created by a master bodyguard who valued defense above all else. While worn, the bracers subtly guide the wearer's movements, helping them deflect incoming blows.

Defensive Ward. While wearing and attuned to these bracers, you gain a +2 bonus to AC.  You can wear them over, under or instead of regular armour.

Emergency Lockdown. If a creature scores a natural 20 against you with a weapon attack, the bracers immediately enter their defensive lockdown mode. This effect activates BEFORE the critical hit is resolved.

When the lockdown activates:

• All weapons, shields, and other objects you are holding are immediately dropped.

• You cannot willingly hold, wield, or carry weapons, shields, ammunition, or similar combat gear.

• You cannot make weapon attacks or unarmed strikes.

• The effect lasts for 12 hours, after which the bracers return to normal operation.

Perfect Interception. While in lockdown mode, the bracers become animated by powerful defensive magic. Any nonmagical weapon attack made against you from within 5 feet automatically misses as the bracers physically intercept the blow.

In addition, any nonmagical missile or ranged weapon attack that would hit you automatically misses as long as the attacker is within 5 feet of you when making the attack. Arrows, bolts, thrown daggers, and similar projectiles are swatted harmlessly aside.

The bracers provide no protection against:

• Spells or magical effects.

• Magical weapon attacks.

• Siege weapons.

• Environmental hazards or falling damage.

Cursed Protection. Once activated, lockdown mode cannot be ended early except by a remove curse, greater restoration, or wish spell. Even then, the bracers remain attuned and can activate again in the future.

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Optional DM Notes

The item is intentionally double-edged:

Advantages

• +2 AC at all times.

• Near immunity to mundane weapon attacks during lockdown.

Drawbacks

• The wearer becomes unable to attack for the duration of the effect.

• Allies may need to protect the wearer from spellcasters and magical weapons.

This makes the Bracers of Blocking an excellent item for pacifist characters, bodyguards, retainers, and overly cautious adventurers who would rather survive than fight.