Corsair's Bloody Mask
Description
The Corsair's Bloody Mask empowers the wearer to perform Spring magic enchantments that empower fleets and bands of warriors who undertake independent action at sea or on land.
Otherwise known as the Crimson Reaver Mask, this talisman is often crafted to resemble a ferocious beast of the sea, spattered with the blood of its last victim; or a maniacally grinning face with blood dripping from the sides of the mouth. The mask often inspires fear in those who view it, or makes them feel uncomfortable. As with many such items, these masks are often ceremoniously disposed of after their magic begins to attenuate - in the case of the Bloody Mask it is traditional to immerse them in salt water. This is generally done by returning them to the sea, although at least one Highborn chapter has a catacomb full of bowls of salt water in each of which lies a mask. Recreating the magic using the same mask has in the past led to tragic circumstances where the violent passions experienced by the wearer begin to linger, or become too powerful to be easily controlled. There are also stories in which a mask used repeatedly with little rest between rituals causes bloody welts to open up on the skin beneath.
Their construction often incorporates Rhyv, the Rune of Blood, especially in the context of shedding blood rather than healing wounds.
Rules
- Form: Talisman. Takes the form of a ritual focus. You must be wearing this item or holding it in hand to use its magical properties.
- Requirement: You must have the magician skill to bond to this item.
- Effect: Gain 1 rank for the Blood and Salt and Merciless Wrath of the Reaver rituals, subject to the normal rules for effective skill.
- Materials: Crafting the Corsair's Bloody Mask requires five ingots of tempest jade, three measures of dragonbone, and three measures of iridescent gloaming. It takes one month to make one of these items.
"May the wind be at your backs, your sails remain full, and your prow hold fast."
"May your blades remain keen, your armour stalwart and your minds clear. Be not afraid, for you have magic at your back."