Nyxthrys: The Shade Ore of the Syr’thian

Color:
Nyxthrys is an eerie, deep black metal with shifting violet and blue undertones that pulse subtly when exposed to dim light or darkness. Its surface is semi-reflective, though distorted, appearing as if faint, ghostly figures move within its depths.
Melting Point:
Nyxthrys does not melt under conventional heat; it requires an infusion of concentrated aetheric energy or a specially prepared Shadowforge, attuned to the residual magic of Nyth’Rithral, to be softened and reshaped.
Common Found State:
Found as veins of liquid-like ore embedded within obsidian-like rock formations on the island of Bathur.
In its raw state, Nyxthrys appears as a shimmering, viscous black metal, resembling mercury but denser, flowing sluggishly before solidifying when removed from its natural environment.
Physical Characteristics:
When forged, it retains a semi-amorphous quality, allowing it to appear slightly fluid or shifting even in solid form.
It is exceptionally lightweight yet incredibly durable, comparable to the strongest known metals.
Exudes faint shadowy wisps that seem to dissipate into the air, giving the illusion that it is in constant motion.
When struck, it does not produce a ringing sound like normal metals but instead emits a deep, dampened hum, as if absorbing sound rather than reflecting it.
Properties:
Highly Conducive to Aether – Easily infused with magical energy, especially shadow and necrotic-aligned magics.
Shape-Adaptive – Can be reforged into flexible fabrics or rigid armors through Syr’thian crafting techniques.
Void Resonance – Naturally absorbs and dampens sound, making it excellent for stealth-based applications.
Darkened Attunement – Weapons and armor made from Nyxthrys gain enhanced performance in dim light and darkness.
Origin:
Nyxthrys is believed to have originated from Nyth’Rithral (The Shadow Lands), possibly carried through ancient Shade Gates that existed before the Fey Gates were closed. Syr’thian myths speak of it as a gift from the Umbral Lords, the enigmatic beings who rule the darkest depths of Nyth’Rithral.
History:
The first recorded use of Nyxthrys dates back to the ancestral records of the Syr’thian people before their departure from Nyth’Rithral. It was a primary ore used in their forges, integral to their crafting traditions. It was only later, after their arrival on Bathur, that they discovered the island itself contained veins of the same material, allowing them to preserve their ancient methods of working with it.
In ancient times, the Syr’thian used it to forge weapons and armor that could cut through both flesh and spirit.
Modern Syr’thian artisans have perfected its crafting, maintaining the material as an exclusive resource of their people.
Common Use:
Weapons & Armor: Used to create legendary blades, reinforced robes, and silent, shadow-infused armaments.
Artisan Goods: Small trinkets and relics imbued with latent aetheric energy, often worn by Syr’thian mystics and warriors.
Magical Implements: Crafted into staffs, amulets, and spell foci, enhancing spellcasting in darkness or near shadowed places.
Cultural Significance and Usage:
Considered a sacred material, representing the balance between shadow and light.
Only the most skilled artisans are permitted to shape Nyxthrys, undergoing years of training in Shadowforging.
Weapons and armor made from it are reserved for warriors, scholars, and mystics who prove themselves worthy.
Some Syr’thian believe that a weapon forged from Nyxthrys carries a piece of the wielder’s soul, binding them eternally to it.
Refinement:
The raw ore is extracted and purified through a process known as Veil Tempering, where it is bathed in Aether-Infused Shadow Flames to stabilize its amorphous properties.
Forging requires both heat and aetheric manipulation, with the metal responding more to the intent and will of the smith than to traditional hammering techniques.
When woven into fabric-like material, it is known as Nyxthrys Weave, a silken yet resilient shadowcloth capable of shifting density at will.
Manufacturing/Products:
Nyx’Zar (Shadow Blades) – One-handed Kopis-like weapons with aether-infused edges.
Nyx'Vash (Umbral Scourge) – A deadly, chain-linked weapon, wielded by Syr’thian martial experts.
Nyxthrys Weave Robes – Elegant, lightweight clothing that provides both protection and concealment.
Nyxthrys Sigils – Artifacts worn to enhance magical attunement, warding against detection.
Void-Bound Shackles – Extremely rare bindings made to suppress powerful shadow-aligned beings or spellcasters.
Nyxthrys remains a jealously guarded material, known only to the Syr’thian of Bathur, shaping their identity and cementing their legacy as masters of the shadow-forged arts.

Type

Metal