Alchemical Henna

Mechanics & Inner Workings

The ink was derived from a tea leaf that produces a tangy, very bitter taste that is considered a local delicacy, though very few have the leather tongue needed to take more than a few sips. This tea leaf is mashed down, and boiled in a strong spirit, typically a clear neutral ethanol.

The fluid is decanted off and placed in a still, the ethanol is baked off first and recaptured for reuse. The fluid that is left is a base for the ink, and typically mixed with various pigments and minerals for color. Though on a mass produced level it is left in the base color which is dark brown.

After the ink has been stored, the Artificer finally lays their hands on the material. Though new technologies have made the practice easier, it is traditionally applied with steady hands and dull hollow needles. Where the ink only barely penetrates the top surface in contrast to regular tattoos that aim to penetrate deep skin. Making it washable, a simple rinse with soap and water pulls more of the ink out, the body does the rest over the course of a few days as the skin sheds away.

After the rune structure has been applied, the Artificer will do their favorite aspect. Calling it "The Works'', the caster will place their hands over the ink and breathe formless magic into it, no Domain specifically. Though it should be noted that Arificers are somewhat unique in this regard, whereas most cave specific talents in magic, artificers have many lesser talents and tend to mix them to form a colorless magic so to speak.

The ink acting as the conduit enacts the purpose of the rune, and the intent of the caster. The tattoo will glow softly, then fade beginning its effective use.

History

As the Artificers of The Dwarven Wandering States as well as the Gnomish Empire Mhuzelt began settling the outskirts of the Huronian Kingdom. Many Citizens commented on the wide variety of tattoos they had. Also noting that they seemed to offer some sort of protection. Some deterred insects, some reflected sunlight away from the skin. While others repelled dirt and grease.

The Artificers of the two nations explained that the ink was the base material used, and over time faded away, thus the effect with them. Swirling stylized rune structures were tattooed onto their skin, the Gnomes favoring swirled and lacework, while the Dwarves preferred art deco and geometric designs.

The first wave of casters who had been given access to the the City of Huron had nearly instantly become infatuated with the Calipheti tradition of henna. Much more temporary, much more versatile artistically. They had seen a number of market stall owners donning the ink and began asking questions. Much to their surprise, the ink was actually made in Huron, not shipped in from the Caliphate.

The Artificers inquired about where to find the makers of the ink, and were pointed to a wide variety of local apothecaries. Here the ink was housed in large glass vessels with a tap to be dispensed at the request of the customer. This began a new venture that benefited the masses. The artificers found a more versatile substance to practice on, and thus the tradition of protective ink came to Huron.

Significance

The incomprehensible utility of the ink is the main draw. The ink itself acts as a conduit for the magic to work through, much in the same way that metals and powdered gems work for regular work. The imagination and intent is the only limiting factor. The cheap abundance of the ink made it an extraordinarily affordable fashion statement as well.

The other is that the tattoo artists are the Artificers themselves. Many needed practice in rune structures before being employed at many of the firms in the city and surrounding areas, or else opening their own enterprise. Thus to get one of these tattoos is very easy, anything one wishes can and will be applied. Many choose a beneficial effect, such as revitalization to keep them awake at work, or a protection against sunburn.

This was felt the most strongly in two spheres of Huron. The Military and the Private sector. The Military requires new tattoos be applied before each mission to enhance the soldiers ability to complete an objective. Favoring runs of night vision, movement and strength. Many Military historians have aquated the widespread use of the ink as to why Huron has stood strong in the face of the countless skirmishes with their neighbors.

In the Private Sector, this has had a somewhat similar effect. Increases the efficiency of workers and laborers, runes of vitality and endurance being favored for those who choose to take the ink. Though many employers do strong arm their workforce into doing it, a somewhat abusive practice. Though they do pay the non inked workers less based on the loss of productivity, so many still choose the higher pay for the flamboyant displays of runes.

Item type

Consumable, Magical

Current Location

States of Huron

Rarity

Very Common

Weight

6oz

Dimensions

Depends on the vessel, but are typically inside inkwells

Base Price

12 copper pieces