Mysticium

Words.

Properties

Physical & Chemical Properties

For reasons yet unknown, Mysticium seems to siphon magical energy from nearby organic life into its form. A sample of Mysticium cut off from a source of life-based energy will have material characteristics identical to the duerite that contains it, becoming nigh impossible to discern from the surrounding ore. When provided ample energy, Mysticium becomes pliant and slightly transparent.
Even while in its bendable state, Mysticium retains a resilience comparable to iron and other hard metals. After sustaining damage, Mysticium is able to repair itself over time, and can even regenerate small pieces of itself as though it were living tissue. This process seems to require a portion of the Mysticium's siphoned life energy, as samples with low energy were shown to recuperate slowly compared to those with higher amounts.
A strange property of Mysticium relates to its color. In its pliant state, Mysticium is described as white or colorless, similar to diamonds or glass. However, in the case of Mystians, the Mysticium that forms their bodies will have a different color for each individual. Reported colors include bright reds, deep violets, light blues, muddy browns, obsidian blacks, and much more, leaving most to believe there is no limit to the spectrum of colors a Mystian's body can take on.
Geologists believe the variable coloration of Mysticium is a quality unique to Mystians, as the Mysticium that forms Mysticium Golems and other manufactured products remains colorless. When tested against other forms of life, including various animals and non-sapient monstrosities, researchers were unable to produce any effect that changed the material's color. Those who study Divine magic and the Outer Planes believe that the Mysticium may be reacting to the Mystian's soul, largely considered to be the ultimate force of mortal life in their field.

Geology & Geography

Mysticium is exclusively found in the Underworld contained within ore deposits of duerite rocks. There are currently hundreds of active Mysticium Mines across the Underworld that benefit local trade and industrial development, making the mineral a hallmark of subterranean export.

History & Usage

Discovery

How it was discovered and by whom.

Refinement

How the material is prepared for use.

Manufacturing & Products

Describe the products made with this material, such as the Mysticium Golems.

Environmental Impact

Concerns regarding its siphoning of life energy and how it may potentially affect surrounding plant life.

Distribution

Trade & Market

We described how the Underworld makes this a hallmark export as a whole, but what factions within it specifically export the mineral, and who are common buyers?

Law & Regulation

Previously regulations on Mysticium were laxed, but with the advent of Mystians, it's imperative that manufacturers confirm the source of their materials. Unfortunately, there seems to be a black market for "recycled" Mysticium sourced from murdered Mystians.

Type

Mineral

Value

300 gp/lb.

Rarity

Rare

Color

Varies (See Properties)

Common State

Solid

Related Locations

• The Underworld

Related Species

• Mystian