Shield of Avenging Might
The Shield of Avenging Might is the first completed prototype in a project to give ordinary soldiers a cohesive defensive item rather than a shield with several unrelated orbs attached. Its three integrated magitech orbs amplify the user's magic, gather mana, and provide an offensive effect through a single network of circuitry. (Chapters 418–421)
History
A collaborative prototype
Dominic, Amie, and an elderly Duskblade researcher develop the shield after consulting Pops about a practical design for troops. Amie creates precisely faceted gems, the researcher helps build and test the orbs, and Dominic makes the steel shield and connects six layers of copper circuitry. Their aim is maintainability as well as power: the runes are simplified so that another competent craftsman can understand and repair the item. (Chapters 418–421)
Dominic enchants the assembled shield with half of a Level 15 Minotaur Core. The core dust and additional mana turn the mana-steel surface flat black, and his Trade Skill Core identifies the result as a Level 15 Rare Grade item. The prototype still requires expert testing, but its successful activation establishes a design that can be reproduced at different levels once mages are assigned to supply the complex orbs. (Chapter 421)
Properties and use
- Integrated effects: Three permanent magitech orbs connect directly to the shield's circuits so their effects activate as one item rather than as separately operated attachments. (Chapters 420–421)
- Spell amplification: The amplification component raises the effective level of a spell; its experimental interaction with Dominic's transmutation magic can improve material quality instead. (Chapter 419)
- Mana support: A collection orb receives and discharges mana, reducing the burden on a lower-level wielder. (Chapter 420)
- Offensive magic: A Flaming Blade orb supplies the design's attack effect, allowing the shield system to contribute more than passive protection. (Chapters 419–420)
- Construction: Six additional circuit layers link the three orbs. Resin protects the delicate assembly against the impacts expected in shield use. (Chapter 421)
- Limits: Orb production is slow and precise, and the prototype must be tested to confirm that its spells activate at the item's level rather than only at the user's level. (Chapters 419–421)
Ownership and custody
| Holder or custodian | Relationship to the item |
|---|---|
| Dominic Wavemates | Principal smith and enchanter of the prototype. |
| Duskblade Sect research team | Co-designers and testers of the integrated orb system. |
| Cygnian and Wistover forces | Intended users of later shields built from the successful design. |
Connections
- Shield of Frozen Vengeance: The more ornate second prototype, made immediately afterward for Alexis with an ice-affinity core.
- Pops: His design advice establishes how the sockets and effects should serve soldiers and remain repairable.
- Fahad: Participates in the wider military discussion that prompts a defensive design suitable for ordinary troops.