Brooch of the Cobra

The Brooch of the Cobra is, as its names implies, an enchanted cloak brooch which resembles a coiled up cobra. The intricate design of the brooch is forged from copper. Afterward the two eyes of the cobra are set with small splinters of spinel and its hood is set with a finely polished piece of intricate coral.

Mechanics & Inner Workings

When the wearer feels threatened they can grasp onto the brooch to magically fork their tongue, slit their pupils, and turn their cloak into the hood of a gigantic king cobra. Those weak of will who bear witness to such a transformation will run for the hills, stricken by the cold chill of terror. Those brave enough to stand their ground will still proceed with caution, unsure if the transformation is purely cosmetic or if it comes with any of the serpent's abilities. In truth the brooch is only intended as a tool for intimidating threats, helping its wearer attempts to avoid actual conflict with physically stronger foes.

History

No one is sure where the first Brooches of the Cobra or the nomadic merchants that wear them came from. Some believe they came from Svellbjargheim, while others believe they hail from the Wabu-Wabu Islands on the other side of the world. The only thing that's certain is that when they first were becoming a common sight their children were already wearing their iconic brooches.

Significance

The nomadic merchant families which travel across Bataf have a tradition where a child is gifted a Brooch of the Cobra by the parent they share a gender with when they reach 11 years of age. These brooches will help them stay save from malicious strangers as they are send out on their own without supervision for the first time. When the child or parents are none-binary the brooch is instead gifted by the parent that shares the closest bond with the child. Brooches are long lasting family heirlooms, some going back for at least 8 generations, and to lose one is to show great disrespect to one's family name.

Item type

Clothing / Accessory

Rarity

Common