Wailing Spikes

The Wailing Spikes are six cursed remote weapons controlled by Alea. Their attacks can injure spiritual enemies, but the curse reflects the wounds they inflict back onto their wielder. (Chapters 347 and 356)

History

Weapons of last resort

During the retreat from the undead, Alea avoids using the spikes despite dwindling energy because controlling the cursed objects costs too much. She relies on a rapier and her own skills until a stronger threat forces her to accept their price. (Chapter 347)

When a dangerous ghost closes on her, Alea summons all six pitch-black spikes. The first attacks force the spirit to hesitate, and the remaining spikes pierce its chest. The same damage burns through Alea's own body, leaving victory inseparable from self-inflicted harm. (Chapter 356)

Properties and use

• Remote control: Alea directs the six spikes independently through the air. (Chapter 356)
• Spiritual efficacy: They can strike an incorporeal or spectral target that resists ordinary attacks. (Chapter 356)
• Reflected injury: Harm inflicted through the spikes is mirrored onto Alea, while their control also consumes substantial energy. (Chapters 347 and 356)

Associated characters

• Alea: Wielder who reserves the spikes for emergencies because every successful attack can wound her in return. (Chapters 347 and 356)