My suggestion is to allow inventory items to gain prestige from use and gain levels in the same progression as the characters do. For example, you commission an axe or a suit of armor, Starting at the base level quality and with each victory in duels, war and events you gain prestige for said artifact. Each new level achieved requires a new investment of coin to actually advance to the next level. The amount of prestige gained would vary depending on certain factors like for example defeating someone in a duel who has the legendary blade master trait or high prowess would give much more prestige than defeating nobodies. It does not have to be confined to weaponry either, you could have a broach or necklace that increased in prestige for each feast you hold or attend, as well as friendships made and people seduced. The effects of the artifact would increase until the final level which would give something worthwhile for cultivating a legendary artifact, perhaps a trait or the option to duel other legendary artifact holders in the used skill of their artifact for large gains in things like fame, prestige, gold, opinion modifiers etc. It would give artifacts more gameplay incentives and depth in my opinion.
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