Elderforge
A massive, rune-etched anvil forged from an unknown black star-metal alloy, veined with pulsing frost-crystal lines. Constantly surrounded by drifting motes of icy energy, the Elderforge hums with ancient power. It floats inches above its obsidian pedestal, tethered by arcing threads of elemental frost energy.
Despite being made of metal, the Elderforge is always cold to the touch—so cold, it burns. Runes etched in the First Tongue glow softly with each strike made upon it, responding not to force, but to purpose.
Mechanics & Inner Workings
Though not conscious in the traditional sense, the Elderforge possesses an ancient, semi-aware soul echo—an amalgamation of every smith who has forged within it. It responds emotionally, often influencing the process:
- Joy or sorrow may alter the result
- It may reject or curse an item if the forging is done with impure intent
- It sometimes whispers to those working with it—cold thoughts, memories of past forgers, or distant war songs
History
- Forged before recorded time by primordial beings of frost and flame
- Once hidden from the world after the Battle of Flame and Winter
- Dunmar Frostheart forged Dragon’s Bane here, defeating the dread infernal Vrakorath
- Some believe the Elderforge is the last remnant of the Iceborn Pantheon, or a fragment of the elemental plane of frost
Significance
Properties and Abilities:
Soul Tempering:
When used to craft a weapon, armor, or magical item, the Elderforge binds a sliver of the forger’s soul into the creation. This imbues the item with a unique, personal enchantment based on the forger’s character, experiences, and desires.
Example: A weapon forged by a vengeful warrior might carry the trait “Echoes of Wrath”, dealing extra damage to those who have wronged the wielder or invoking visions of the past.
Frostbrand Crafting:
Any item crafted with or upon the Elderforge can be imbued with elemental frost, gaining traits such as:
- Frostbite Edge: Extra cold damage on hit
- Glacial Resilience: Resistance to fire and cold
- Slowing Aura: Enemies near the item or wearer have reduced movement
Vision of the Shaper:
Upon completing a major creation, the forger experiences a brief vision—a glimpse of their potential future or a truth buried within their soul. This can serve as prophecy, warning, or inspiration.
Anvil of Memory:
When a legendary weapon or artifact is broken, bringing its remains to the Elderforge allows it to be repaired or reborn—not as a copy, but as a new form with its old essence preserved. This can preserve legacies across generations.
Will of the Forge:
The Elderforge cannot be moved, taken, or destroyed. It chooses who may use it. Those without a clear and worthy purpose will find the forge inert, unresponsive, or even hostile, as elemental spirits rise to defend it.
Unique--there is only one in existence.
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