Orichalcum Metal
aka Aurichalcum
Overview
Orichalum, (ὀρείχαλκος) (literally meaning "mountain copper") was shortened over time to 'Chalkas' in some parts of the Kingdom.Orichalcum has a greenish hue and glow when placed near heat sources that aid it in removing water from it's surface. When bearing live loads it glows a light blue and when bearing non-living loads it glows light purple. If placed in water - the water will bead around the Orichalcum and the surface will always be dry to the touch instantly when removed from a water source.
The Orichalcum Curse
Orichalcum is sacred to Poseidon - as such it repels water. However, as the holy metal of Poseidon, if the metal is ever returned to him - namely submerged or sunk into the ocean for longer than the life of the forge-master that cast the alloy, then it reverts to an alloy of normal Gold and Copper. being similar to Bronze in hue. This being the case Elven Forged Orichalcum is worth the most, however the most commonly sought after items are Dwarven Forged, followed by Human and lastly Orcish.Orichalcum Pillar
Within the Temple of Poseidon in Atlantis itself is the Orichalcum Pillar. A large obelisk of pure Orichalcum which is inscribed with the Laws of Poseidon and the names of the first sons born to the royal line of Poseidon's heirs.It is this pillar that is said to give the flying disks of Orichalcum in Atlantis the ability to fly over non-water surfaces.
Other Uses of Orichalcum
De-consecrated Orichalcum Use
This is melted down into an Atlantean Currency -worth as much as a traditional Electrum Piece (2 EP = 1 GP). Dwarves are known to recast it into ingots of Orichalcum worth 100 GP.
Consecrated Orichalcum Use in the Temple
The interior walls, pillars and floors of the temple are completely covered in Orichalcum, and the roof is variegated with gold, silver, and Orichalcum. (Crit. 116–119)
Consecrated Orichalcum Use in Crafting - Magical Items
Magical items forged out of Orichalcum retains a level of reddish hue and glow when placed near heat sources. It is used in items of +2 or higher in bonuses.
Utility
The metal is used in the forging of everything from weaponry to general use equipment, but is most valued on the field of war.
Access & Availability
The metal is a naturally occurring alloy in Atlantis - if kept in the presence of Poseidon's temple and blessed by a Cleric of Poseidon of at least 5th Level.
Complexity
The Orichalcum alloy is readily formed - the difficulty is the consecrating of it and the maintenance of that consecration, as any dew or rain, or even humidity can start the de-consecration process.
Discovery
Orichalcum is said to have been created by Poseidon in the creation of Atlantis. The Atlantis Continent in its formation 'bled' Orichalcum and this was consecrated by Poseidon when the Continent was given to him by Zeus.
Related Items
Comments