Robes of the Shaman
Through the years, Thormalkian shaman robes have changed very little. Everything the shamans wear is crafted from the materials found on the plains. The fabric is made from flax or hemp, with fur and bones from indigenous animals.
History
The first shaman robes were crafted from leather and fur. These early robes included headdresses and boots. The boots were covered in magically enhanced bone beads on leather thongs. The headdresses were crafted from the skulls of wolves or deer. Shamans carry staves of Yew, Alder, or Oak depending on the ceremonies they are performing.
As the crafting of cloth became more common the main body of the robe began integrating it into their robes. This began as small patches and pouches. These would be dyed with plant based dyes.
As different dyes were discovered, they were integrated into the robes as well. Some dyes were used on the furs, mostly blacks, blues, and reds. These pigments were also turned into paints to be used on the skull masks.
The robes of a shaman are either passed down from master to apprentice upon their death, or they are crafted by the shaman themselves. Even when they are passed down the new shaman needs to make alterations. The mask portion of their regalia is always newly constructed, with previous mask hung on the wall in a prominent position.
Significance
The robes and regalia of a shaman indicate a member of Thormalkian society with the ability to utilize magic. Those who show potential at an early age are tested during the seasonal rituals. These tests are done in private, with the person tested given the choice whether to follow the shamanic path or not. Once the decision is made new initiate begins working on their first mask. With the design of the mask, the initiate learns to infuse their mask with their magic signature. When being worn the robes and regalia emanate magic, heightening the wearers own magic. When the robes are not being worn, they are stored in an specifically designed box painted with shamanic symbology.
Item type
Clothing / Accessory
Current Location
Related ethnicities
Rarity
These robes are worn only by the shamans of Thormalk, or their apprentices.
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