Black Dragon Mask
Black Dragon Mask
The Black Dragon Mask is one of five legendary dragon masks used by the Cult of the Dragon in their campaign to summon Tiamat. Each mask corresponds to one of Tiamat's five chromatic dragon heads and grants its wearer the ability to control dragons of that color. The Black Dragon Mask was in the possession of Rezmir, a high-ranking cult leader, until her defeat aboard Skyreach Castle.
Description
The Black Dragon Mask is a powerful artifact that radiates strong draconic magic. It was worn by Rezmir during her operations managing the cult's treasure transport via Skyreach Castle. The mask is one of five such artifacts, each representing a different chromatic dragon type: black, blue, green, red, and white.
The mask's most significant power is its ability to grant control over chromatic dragons of the corresponding color. This ability makes the dragon masks invaluable tools for the Cult of the Dragon, as it allows them to command and direct the very creatures they seek to elevate as rulers of the world.
History
The Black Dragon Mask was wielded by Rezmir, who used its power as part of her authority within the Cult of the Dragon. She wore the mask during the confrontation with the white dragon aboard Skyreach Castle, and it notably helped her talk down the enraged dragon when it discovered that someone had stolen sapphires from its hoard. Rezmir's possession of the mask was a symbol of her high rank and favor within the cult hierarchy.
The mask's origins and creation are tied to the larger ritual to summon Tiamat, with each of the five dragon masks representing one aspect of the five-headed dragon goddess. The masks are not merely symbols but functional components of the cult's grand design.
Powers
According to Azbara Jos, the Red Wizard who provided intelligence to the party, the dragon masks possess the following capabilities:
- Dragon Control – Each mask grants its wearer the ability to control chromatic dragons of the corresponding color. In the case of the Black Dragon Mask, this means control over black dragons.
- Draconic Authority – The mask appears to grant or enhance the wearer's authority, as evidenced by Rezmir's ability to defuse the white dragon's rage aboard Skyreach Castle.
The full extent of the mask's powers may not be completely known to the party, and there may be additional abilities yet to be discovered.
Campaign Relevance
The Black Dragon Mask first came to the party's attention during their infiltration of Skyreach Castle. After Bechamel planted a stolen sapphire in Rezmir's pocket and accused her of the theft, the party observed Rezmir wearing the dragon mask while she addressed the white dragon's accusations.
Following the defeat of Rezmir in Session 33, the party successfully recovered the Black Dragon Mask, striking a significant blow against the Cult of the Dragon. The seizure of this artifact represents the dismantling of the cult's Black Dragon arm and removes a powerful tool from their arsenal.
The recovery of the mask not only deprives the cult of a valuable asset but also provides the party with potential leverage or power in their ongoing fight against the cult's efforts to summon Tiamat. As one of five masks needed for the complete ritual, its loss has likely set back the cult's plans considerably.
Azbara Jos's revelation about the masks' dragon-controlling abilities has also opened up new strategic possibilities, particularly his suggestion that the party seek out metallic dragons for guidance, given the "strong dragony magic" he sensed emanating from Bechamel.