Quill of Binding

The Quill of Binding is a treasured artifact belonging to the duke of Dalishae Duchy. It is used to ensorcel documents to sway the readers, and bind the signers to obeyance of the text therein. It looks like a normal feather quill used for writing, with the exception that the feather is a bit more colorful than a typical quill. Upon closer examination, one can detect arcane symbology along the shaft of the quill. These markings are suspected to be written in the Ur-Tongue.

Properties

When used to write a contractual document, such as a trade treaty, border agreement, or even a merchant covenant, the Quill of Binding imbues the document with a mystical potency that affects those that read the enchanted document. When read the document attempts to sway the reader into viewing the contents of the document in a more favorable light. This is just a subtle nudge towards acceptance of the text, not a dramatic change in belief, although repeated readings can further sway the readers opinion of the document.
A more important ability of the Quill of Binding is when it is used to sign a document it had previously been used to prepare. If the signatories of such a document use the Quill of Binding to sign the document, they will find themselves bound to follow the terms and content of the document, and must do their best to see it implemented. This effect is assumed to be a permanent binding of the signatories, but in truth it begins to fade after one of those signatories has died.
The Magick of the Quill of Binding is a surreptitious and elusive enchantment. Those under its sway do not have their beliefs changed in any meaningful way. The reader of a text does not have to agree with it, some might even speak out against it, but those affected by the text tend to follow its dictates, even if they do so reluctantly. One who has signed such a document may not feel it was a good deal for them, and may publicly declare their distaste for the agreement. But they will still see it implemented to the best of their abilities.

Requirements

The text of the document must be written in one night under the light of the full moon, so that the god Lune may bless the words and imbue them with holy import. The writer of the text must use a special alchemical ink, made from their own blood.
The signing of a document written by the Quill of Binding must take place on a clear day under the direct rays of the sun. This allows the sun goddess Sola to bear witness and bind the hearts of the signatories to the purpose of the document. The same ink used in drafting the document must be used in the signing ritual.
Special alchemical formulae may be used in the creation of the ink or paper to enhance the magnitude of the documents binding power.

History

When the late Duke Tormalin Chalcedon of Dalishae Duchy was just a young man, and not yet duke, he spent much of his time Adventuring out in the untamed parts of the Coastal Realms in the company of fellow raucous young adventure seekers. On one of their outings they were exploring the depths of some mysterious forgotten ancient ruins. Amongst the many treasures recovered by Tormalin and his friends from this expedition was the Quill of Binding. When he returned to Lumenos, and was preparing to present his father the Duke with his prizes, he was approached by his friend Rovert. Rovert, a journeyman Loremaster, requested that Tormalin refrain from giving the Quill of Binding to the duke, and allow Rovert to study it. Tormalin granted his friend that boon.
After becoming Duke of Dalishae after his father's passing, he performed well as a military leader, but soon became renowned for his skill as a diplomat. The treaties he crafted were seldom broken, and through his effort peace came to the realms of mankind. Unfortunately since his passing, that peace has begun to unravel.

Item type

Magical

Current Location

Stoneheart Palace

Owning Organization

Dalishae Duchy

Rarity

The Loremasters only know of one Quill of Binding, and very few are even aware of its existence.

Raw materials & Components

Special alchemical ink, paper or parchment.

Ink Pot & Quill by No-longer-here from Pixabay