Restbringer

The Restbringer is a dagger prized by those who hunt or defend against the undead. Forged from Mithril, a rare metal known for its purity and resonance, the blade emits a soft yellow glow whenever undead are near. A faint, harmonic hum accompanies the light, serving as both a warning and a ward.   This weapon has become a standard for professional hunters, priests, and night watchmen across the kingdoms. It’s often kept close at hand during rest hence its name. The moment it senses the presence of unlife, it vibrates lightly, glowing through its sheath to alert the wielder before danger strikes. In battle, the Restbringer’s edge cuts cleanly through necrotic flesh and bone, its holy resonance disrupting dark energies and preventing regeneration in weaker undead.

by Marc Zipper (Valcin)

 

Origin

  The earliest known account of the Restbringer comes from Madison Henderson, a renowned Catfolk huntress of the supernatural and the arcane. Her reputation was built on solving impossible cases hauntings, demonic pacts, and disappearances linked to the undead.   One such case began when several noblewomen went missing in the capital, only to reappear pale, distant, and enthralled by a mysterious noble: Lord Michel Lebellious, a Tri-Cyclops aristocrat whose wealth came from his vast wineries and trade houses.   During her investigation, Madison encountered lesser vampires and revenants confirming her suspicions. To prepare for the confrontation, she forged a dagger from purified Mithril, binding it with silver and an alchemical ward that would react to the aura of undeath. She kept it hidden beneath her corset, just visible enough for her to notice its glow but not alert others.   At Lord Lebellious’s grand gala, Madison mingled among the guests, her dagger tucked close. When she approached the noble himself, she noticed the blade shimmer faintly beneath her gown. His charm was immediate his words smooth, hypnotic.   “What makes your dress shine so bright, my lovely lady? Might I have this dance?”   Madison smiled, her instincts confirmed.   “Oh, it’s a little effect I prepared for tonight,” she replied.   As he reached for her hand, she struck — driving a hidden wooden stake from her hair straight into his heart. The room erupted in chaos as his form withered, revealing his true nature. The three ladies nearby screamed — their own eyes black with vampiric hunger. Madison drew the Restbringer in one smooth motion, the blade flaring gold, and cut them down before they could attack, ending their torment and saving the ballroom from becoming a midnight feast.   From that night forward, the Restbringer became the hunter’s companion and the traveler’s guardian.  

Properties & Mechanics

  Mithril , inlaid with alchemical silver.   Effect: Emits a yellow glow and faint hum when undead are within 30 feet.   Advanced upgrade   Combat Bonus: Deals +1d6 holy damage to undead. Prevents natural regeneration or reanimation for 24 hours after death.


Cover image: by Valcin (Marc Zipper)

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