Dagger of Betrayal

The Dagger of Betrayal is a dark, ominous weapon with a sinister aura. The dagger's blade is sleek and black, forged from a metal that seems to absorb light rather than reflect it. The blade is razor-sharp and has a slightly curved edge, designed for both precise strikes and swift, clean cuts. The hilt is wrapped in dark leather, providing a secure grip, and is adorned with intricate silver runes that shimmer faintly in the dark. The pommel of the dagger is shaped like a snarling serpent, its eyes set with tiny, red gemstones that glint with malevolent energy.

Appearance:

Blade:

The blade is jet black and nearly translucent in low light, with an edge that glows faintly with a dark blue hue when exposed to moonlight. It is designed for stealth and speed, with a smooth, polished surface that enhances its lethality.

Hilt:

The hilt is wrapped in black leather with silver filigree along the edges, providing both a secure and comfortable grip. The serpent-shaped pommel adds a touch of intimidation and symbolizes betrayal.

Runes:

The runes etched into the hilt and blade are ancient symbols of treachery and deception, and they pulse with a dark, shifting light when the dagger is used in acts of betrayal or deceit.

Powers:

Corrosive Wounds:

The dagger inflicts wounds that are not only painful but also difficult to heal. The dark metal of the blade causes the wound to fester and resist magical healing, making recovery slow and arduous.

Mechanics:

Upon recieving damage from the dagger, the target makes a CON saving throw (DC 14). On fail, reduce the targets maximum health by 1/4 of the damage dealt, rounded down. This reduction can only be removed during a short or long rest.

Shadow Strike:

When used in darkness or shadow, the dagger enhances the user's stealth abilities, allowing them to strike from the shadows with increased precision. The blade can cut through magical barriers and defenses that are designed to protect against conventional attacks.

Mechanics:

+1 to attack rolls when made from stealth or darkness. The blade deals damage to the target as if they did not have resistance to slashing damage.

Betrayal’s Mark:

The dagger has the power to mark its victims for future retribution. Once a victim is struck by the dagger, they bear a supernatural mark that makes them vulnerable to Noctyra's influence and manipulation. This mark also makes it easier for the dagger’s wielder to track and control the victim from a distance.

Mechanics:

Once per day, you may apply a mark on a target by touching them with the tip of the blade. The mark is slightly painful and irritating. Those marked by the dagger experience occasional auditory hallucinations of extremely faint whispers in an unknown language, and are plauged with terrifying nightmares. With some effort, a marked individual may ignore the whispers, though the drain on their psyche gets worse with time. As long as you are attuned to the dagger, you know the precise location of any target marked by the dagger, no matter the distance between you and the target. Only one target may be marked at a time. Applying a new mark removes any mark currently on a target.

History and Significance:

The Dagger of Betrayal is a powerful symbol of Noctyra's dominion over darkness and deception. It is said to have been created by Noctyra herself or one of her most trusted agents, using the darkest magics to forge a weapon that embodies the essence of treachery. The dagger is highly coveted by those who seek to wield its power, and it is often passed down through generations of her most loyal followers as a mark of favor and trust. Its presence in any plot or scheme is a harbinger of dark dealings and treachery, making it a feared and respected artifact in both mortal and divine realms.

Item type

Weapon, Melee