Invoker's Crown

The Invoker's Crown is a historically significant artifact of the Empire of Bael Turath, symbolizing the deep and powerful connection between the ruling Emperor and the infernal patron, Asmodeus. The crown is not only a ceremonial object but also a potent arcane instrument, enabling warlocks, especially the Emperor, to channel the power of their patrons. Its use is closely intertwined with the religious and political history of the empire.

## Description

The Invoker's Crown is an intricate piece of craftsmanship, combining both artistic merit and arcane functionality. It is made from a rare, dark metal known as Infernal Iron, which is believed to be sourced from the deepest caverns of the Underdark. This metal is unique for its shimmering quality that seems to absorb and refract light in an almost unnatural way.

The design of the crown features nine spikes, each representing one of the Nine Hells. These spikes are not merely decorative; they are intricately carved with infernal runes and symbols, believed to be scripts of ancient and powerful magic. The crown is further adorned with nine large gemstones, each a different color corresponding to the nine layers of Hell. These gemstones are more than ornamental; they are said to be imbued with the essence of each layer, contributing to the crown's unique abilities.

The eight flanking gems consist of red jasper, hematite, smoky quartz, fire opal, blue sapphire, peridot, black onyx, and moonstone. At the center of the crown is a large, blood-red ruby, symbolizing Asmodeus, the Lord of the Nine Hells. This central gem is renowned for its supposed ability to pulse with a faint light when in the presence of powerful infernal magic, adding to the crown's mystique and perceived power.

## History

The origins of the Invoker's Crown can be traced back to the early years of the Bael Turath Empire. It was commissioned by the first Emperor, a testament to his pact with Asmodeus and a symbol of the infernal patronage that underpinned the empire's might. Throughout its history, the crown has been used in rare and significant ceremonies, often to display the Emperor's connection to Asmodeus and to invoke the Lord of the Nine Hells' favor or guidance.

In addition to its ceremonial use by the Emperors of Bael Turath, the crown has occasionally been used by select warlocks of the empire. These instances have been under strict supervision, typically in times of great need or crisis, where the channeling of a patron's power was deemed necessary for the empire's interests.

Traditionally, the crown is kept in the Imperial Vault, located in the deepest chamber of the Emperor's palace in Vor Kragal. The security surrounding the crown is formidable, with its exact location within the vault being one of the empire's most closely guarded secrets.

## Cultural and Religious Significance

The Invoker's Crown holds immense cultural and religious significance within the Empire of Bael Turath. It is revered as a sacred object in the state religion, embodying the empire's devotion to Asmodeus and the infernal powers. The crown symbolizes the divine right and authority of the Emperor, reinforcing his status as both a political and religious figurehead.

The crown is a central feature in major imperial ceremonies, particularly those involving the invocation of infernal powers or the coronation of a new Emperor. Its presence at such events is not only a display of tradition but also a reinforcement of the empire's religious beliefs and the Emperor's role as the intermediary between the infernal realms and the mortal world.

## Controversies and Legends

The history of the Invoker's Crown is not without its controversies and legends. There have been several instances in the empire's history where the crown was at the center of internal power struggles, often involving rival factions within the imperial court vying for control or influence.

Numerous attempts to steal the crown have been recorded over the centuries, contributing to its mystique and perceived value. These attempts, though invariably unsuccessful, have spawned various legends about the crown's powers and supposed will. Some of these legends suggest that the crown possesses its own consciousness and can influence the mind of its wearer, although such claims remain unverified and are often regarded as folklore.