Another 13

Occult
Artifacts
by James Maliszewski

Requires the use of the d20 Modern Roleplaying Game, published by Wizards of the Coast, Inc.
Modern Another 13 Occult Artifacts
SPECIAL THANKS
To Paul Drye, Lee Foster, Ken Hite, and Jack Liberty for ideas and inspiration.

Introduction
While D20 Modern Roleplaying Game can be

among the most popular are those that deal withThe Artifacts
used to create any kind of contemporary setting,

supernatural beings, occult powers, and nefarious
conspiracies. The D20 Modern core rulebook sup-
ports such settings in a variety of ways, from
advanced classes to creatures to FX abilities. What
the core rulebook lacks, however, are some of the
staples of such settings: occult artifacts. Certainly
there are many FX items to be had, but they owe
their existence to purely game mechanical consider-
ations rather than to occult or supernatural histo-
ry. Which offers a GM more flavor for his occult-
based campaign: a talisman of pure good or an Ica
Stone?
Each artifact uses the same basic format. That
format is as follows:
Name: The name of the artifact.
History: A short history of the artifacts origins
and influence throughout history.
Physical Description: What the artifact looks
like.
Current Whereabouts: The location of the
artifact at present, if known.
Alternatives: Other possible interpretations of
the artifact.
Game Mechanics: Game rules for using the
artifact, including a Purchase DC and other details.

Using this Product

Another Thirteen Occult Artifacts, like its pred-
ecessor, provides the GM, naturally enough, with
FORMS
Each artifact in this PDF is presented on a
thirteen different occult artifacts, each one drawn
single page along with a set of forms. GMs can
from the real world. Admittedly, not all of the arti-
print only the devices they plan on using and,
facts described actually exist (at least so far as any-
by making notes on the printed pages, keep
one knows), but all of them derive from people,
track of the artifacts status in a campaign.
places, and events in the conspiratorial history of
These sheets can be inserted into the cam-
the world and thus add a great deal to any D20
paigns binder along with sheets from Ronin
Modern campaign that deals with the supernatural.
Arts Modern: Campaign Planner, Modern:
Each entry provides background information on the
Contacts, and other releases in this series.
artifact in question, as well as game mechanics,
allowing the GM to insert the artifact into his cam-
paign with ease. In several cases, alternate interpre-
tations of the artifacts are offered, giving further
options to the GM and ensuring that his version of,
say, Excalibur suits his campaigns realities rather
than the other way around.
All organizations referenced in this product are
described at greater length in Thirteen
Conspiracies, another D20 Modern product avail-
able from Ronin Arts.

2 of 16
Modern Another 13 Occult Artifacts

Amber Room
History: Begun in 1701 at the behest of Frederick I of
Prussia, the Amber Room was intended as a testament to the
kings power and prestige. At that time, amber was a new
material with which to work for decorative purposes and its
mystical healing properties were well known to Frederick.
He hoped to have his master artisans produce a private sanc-
tum that might help him fight against the infirmities of old
age. Unfortunately. Insufficient amber existed to complete
the room before Frederick I died in 1713. His son, Frederick
Wilhelm I, had no interest in the Amber Room (and may not
have known of its occult properties). As a shown of diplo-
matic goodwill, Frederick Wilhelm gave the room to Peter
the Great, tsar of Russia in 1716. It is unclear whether Peter
or any subsequent tsar understood the power of the Amber
Room, although Grigori Yefimovich Rasputins interest in
the room suggests that some knew its true nature. It is
almost certain that Josef Stalin was aware of the rooms pur-
pose and used it to keep himself healthy. During World War
II, Heinrich Himmler wished to obtain the room for himself
and saw to it that it was seized during Operation
Barbarossa, despite the Soviets attempts to hide its loca-
tion. The Amber Room was taken back to Konigsberg,
where it remained until both the British and Soviets bombed
the city. While many believed the Amber Room destroyed
in the bombardment, it survived, becoming one of the most
sought after occult artifacts of the 20th century.
Physical Description: The Amber Room is a series of
large wall panels inlaid with several tons of masterfully
carved high-quality amber, long wall mirrors and four
Florentine mosaics. The amber, which covered three walls,
is arranged in three tiers. The central tier consists of eight
large, symmetrical vertical panels. Four contain pictures
made of semiprecious stones such as quartz, jasmine, jade
and onyx, depicting five senses. Mirrored pilasters occupy
the distance between the large panels. The lower tier of the
room is covered in square amber panels. One of the corners
contains a small amber table. The rooms furnishings con-
sist of inlaid wood commodes of Russian origin and a vase
of Chinese porcelain. In addition, one of the most valuable
collections of amber objects created in the 17th and 18th
centuries is housed in the rooms glass-covered display
cases.
Current Whereabouts: The Thule-Gesellschaft pos-
sesses the bulk of the Amber Room, which it has hidden
away in Agharti beneath Tibet. The missing pieces are scat-
tered across the globe, primarily in the hands of collectors
who would prefer to remain anonymous. Thule agents scour
the globe seeking these pieces in order to restore the room
to its former glory.
Alternatives: The pieces of the Amber Room might
function to a lesser degree than the whole, in which case the
GM can create diminished versions of the effects described
below. Another possibility is that its effects are limited to
members of the Russian royal family or their descendents,
in which case the Thule-Gesellschaft will be very disap-
pointed should they obtain its missing pieces.
Game Mechanics: The complete Amber Room has
several effects. First, anyone placed within its four walls is
completely healed of all wounds, including loss of hit
points, ability damage (but not ability drain), non-magical
diseases, poisons, and other similar temporary effects.
Second, each hour spent within the Amber Room decreases
a persons effective age (for the purposes of determining
physical ability score loss only; non-physical bonuses are
unaffected) by one week.
Type: Artifact (magic); Caster Level: ; Purchase
DC: None; Weight: 4000 lb.

Campaign Information
USED IN THE CAMPAIGN? YES NO STILL EXISTS IN THE CAMPAIGN? YES NO
DID YOU CHANGE THE ARTIFACT IN ANY WAY? YES NO (IF YES, DESCRIBE BELOW)
______________________________________________________________________________
PLAYER CHARACTERS KNOWLEDGE OF THE DEVICE: ___________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
NOTES: ________________________________________________________________________

3 of 16
Modern Another 13 Occult Artifacts

Antikythera Mechanism
History: In 1901, a Greek sponge diver discov-
ered the wreck of a cargo ship off the coast of the
tiny island of Antikythera. Within the wreck were
the remains of a mechanical device built in the first
century B.C. to predict the location of heavenly
bodies. The device became known as the
Antikythera Mechanism and led to a reevaluation of
the extent of Greek mechanical engineering. Many
historians guessed that someone associated with the
astronomical school of Posidonius of Rhodes had
produced the Mechanism. The school pioneered the
study of the stars and planets, drawing on earlier
scholarship from Egypt and other Near Eastern cul-
tures. In point of fact, the Egyptian scholarship on
which Posidonius drew was Atlantean in origin.
From it, the Greek astronomer learned not only how
to construct a device capable of predicting the
movements of celestial objects but also how to
manipulate their astral influence upon the world.
Under his direction, at least a half-dozen mecha-
nisms were constructed and given to colleagues and
allies, who used them to lend heavenly assistance to
their earthly endeavors. Precursors to modern
Masonry assassinated Posidonius and stole his notes
on constructing the mechanism, believing that it
could upset their own plans to remake the universe.
Since then, they have sought out all functioning ver-
sions of the mechanism to prevent anyone else
upsetting their plans.
Physical Description: A complete mechanism
is an iron sphere that represents the nighttime sky.
Situated across its surfaces on a series of shallow
furrows are smaller metallic spheres that represent
stars, planets, comets, and the Moon. The mecha-
nism splits open to reveal gears and dials on the
interior that can (and indeed must) be wound for the
artifact to operate.
Current Whereabouts: The only publicly dis-
played mechanism is in the Greek National
Archeological Museum in Athensand it is woe-
fully incomplete. At least two functioning mecha-
nisms have been found outside the control of the
Freemasons. The Society of St. Albert owns one,
while the Templars own another.
Alternatives: The mechanism might model
something other than planetary motions, such as
plate tectonics (useful for finding sunken conti-
nents) or cloud cover (to predict the weather). The
mechanism could have been a magical container for
some supernatural entity, with the gears being phys-
ical manifestations of mystic locks.
Game Mechanics: Using a mechanism grants a
+8 equipment bonus to Knowledge (Physical
Sciences) skill checks that pertain to the movements
of celestial objects. If used in conjunction with the
spell augury, it grants a +10% bonus to the chance
of receiving a meaningful reply.
Type: Artifact (magic); Caster Level: 10th;
Purchase DC: 35; Weight: 45 lb.

Campaign Information
USED IN THE CAMPAIGN? YES NO STILL EXISTS IN THE CAMPAIGN? YES NO
DID YOU CHANGE THE ARTIFACT IN ANY WAY? YES NO (IF YES, DESCRIBE BELOW)
______________________________________________________________________________
PLAYER CHARACTERS KNOWLEDGE OF THE DEVICE: ___________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
NOTES: ________________________________________________________________________

4 of 16
Modern Another 13 Occult Artifacts

Dragons Teeth
History: When the Greek hero Jason landed in the
city of Colchis, he demanded the Golden Fleece from
King Aetes, son of the god Helios, who possessed it.
Crafty man that he was, Aetes agreed to give Jason the
fleece on the condition that he yoke Hephaestus two
fire-breathing bulls and use them to plow the Field of
Ares, into which he would plant dragons teeth given to
him by the goddess Athena. This Jason did with the
assistance of Aetes daughter, the sorceress Medea.
The dragons teeth were a trap, however, and grew
from the ground into vicious warriors from whom
Jason escaped by means of a ruse. While Greek myths
describe these warriors as human, the truth is that they
were kinori. Dragons teeth are not wholly magical in
nature. Instead, planting them into the ground activates
a one-way dimensional resonance generator (see
Thirteen Alien Devices, also from Ronin Arts) that
transports a kinori warrior to the spot. In ages past, the
kinori gave these teeth to favored allies as a means of
acquiring surreptitious protection. They rarely do this
anymore, but many of the original teeth are still extant
and the kinori magically bound to them remain in sus-
pended animation awaiting their summons.
Physical Description: Dragons teeth look like
oversized sharks teeth, black in color and viciously
serrated.
Current Whereabouts: The Prieur de Sion holds
most of the dragons teeth, which they dispense to
agents as portable bodyguards. A few other occult
organizations, most notably the Temple of the Serpent,
possess small collections of these items.
Alternatives: Dragons teeth might be associated
with some other supernatural or alien race rather than
the kinori.
Game Mechanics: If buried in the earth, 1d4
rounds later a fully-grown kinori warrior grows up and
obeys the commands of the one who buried the tooth.
The kinori will serve until either he or his master is
killed. The warrior has the following statistics:
Kinori Warrior
Kinori Strong Hero 1: CR 2; Medium-size mon-
strous humanoid; HD 2d8+2 plus 1d8+1; hp 16; Mas
13; Init +1; Spd 20 ft., swim 30 ft.; Defense 15, touch
12, flat-footed 14 (+1 Dex, +3 natural, +1 class); BAB
+3; Grap +4; Atk +4 melee (1d4+2, claw or bite) or +4
ranged; Full Atk +4 melee (1d4+2, 2 claws) and +2
melee (1d4+1, bite) or +4 ranged; FS 5 ft. by 5 ft.;
Reach 5 ft; SQ cold resistance 20, darkvision 200 ft.,
easy breathing, light sensitivity; AL master of the
tooth; SV Fort +2, Ref +4, Will +3; AP 5; Rep +0; Str
13, Dex 12, Con 13, Int 11, Wis 10, Cha 11.
Skills: Climb +6, Hide +5 (+9 when concealed
against a white background), Listen +3, Move Silently
+5, Spot +3, Survival +5, Swim +11.
Feats: Archaic Weapons Proficiency, Multiattack,
Personal Firearms Proficiency, Simple Weapons
Proficiency.
Talents (Strong Hero): Melee smash.
Type: Artifact (magic); Caster Level: ; Purchase
DC: 25 (per tooth); Weight: .

Campaign Information
USED IN THE CAMPAIGN? YES NO STILL EXISTS IN THE CAMPAIGN? YES NO
DID YOU CHANGE THE ARTIFACT IN ANY WAY? YES NO (IF YES, DESCRIBE BELOW)
______________________________________________________________________________
PLAYER CHARACTERS KNOWLEDGE OF THE DEVICE: ___________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
NOTES: ________________________________________________________________________

5 of 16
Modern Another 13 Occult Artifacts

Excalibur
History: Flavius Valerius Artorius was a
Romano-British cavalry officer who, as very young
man, had served at the battle of Mons Badonicus in
A.D. 500 under the warlord Aurelius Ambrosianus.
Though the Saxon invaders had been defeated, they
were not wholly vanquished and would continue to
threaten Roman civilization in Britain. Upon
Ambrosianus death, Artorius assumed the imperi-
um, or generalship, of the British forces, attracting
soldiers and mercenaries from as far away as
Palestine to his side. He rallied the British forces
and subjected the Saxons to his fair but sometimes
brutal rule. The territory he ruled came to encom-
pass not only all of Britain south of Hadrians Wall
but pieces of the European mainland as well, which
led to clashes with Justinian I, the demon-emperor
of Byzantium. The Welsh bard and prophet Emrys
(called Myrddin after his birthplace) assisted
Artorius with sage advice and arranged a political
marriage with a British princess named
Gwenhwyfar. Emrys also provided Artorius with his
mighty sword, which later generations dub either
Excalibur or Caliburn. Eventually, despite his gen-
erally just rule, Artorius could not hold together his
kingdom. Beset by Saxon revolts and betrayal with-
in his own court, he was mortally wounded at the
battle of Camboglanna. Legend says Artorius did
not die but was sent to another place to heal until
Britain again needed him.
Physical Description: Excalibur is a spatha, a
Late Roman cavalry sword approximately 35 inch-
es long, of which 28 inches is the steel blade. The
blade is straight and designed to be used as a slash-
ing weapon. It possesses a bronze guard and pom-
mel and a burl wood grip.
Current Whereabouts: No one currently
knows the whereabouts of Excalibur. It is generally
believed to be located somewhere in Great Britain,
perhaps in the vicinity of Glastonbury, although
some believe it rests within a pocket dimension
accessible only to descendants of Arthur.
Unsurprisingly, the Prieur de Sion is very interest-
ed in seeking out Excalibur.
Alternatives: The sword might be usable only
by Britains rightful king (who might or might not
have any association with the current royal family).
Likewise, it might function only when wielded
against Britains enemies during a time of great cri-
sis.
Game Mechanics: Excalibur is a +5 longsword
with a number of special qualities. When drawn, it
glows brightly and all beings with an opposing alle-
giance must make a Reflex saving throw (DC 16) or
be blinded for 1d4 rounds. Opponents fighting with
their eyes averted get a +2 bonus to their saves, but
suffer a 2 penalty to all attack rolls against you.
The weapon also possesses a larger than normal
critical threat range (17-20).
Type: Artifact (magic); Caster Level: ;
Purchase DC: None; Weight: 3 lb.

Campaign Information
USED IN THE CAMPAIGN? YES NO STILL EXISTS IN THE CAMPAIGN? YES NO
DID YOU CHANGE THE ARTIFACT IN ANY WAY? YES NO (IF YES, DESCRIBE BELOW)
______________________________________________________________________________
PLAYER CHARACTERS KNOWLEDGE OF THE DEVICE: ___________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
NOTES: ________________________________________________________________________

6 of 16
Modern Another 13 Occult Artifacts

Hand of Simon Magus

History: The New Testament book of The Acts
of the Apostles (Chapter 8:9-24) speaks of a
Samaritan magician named Simon who attempted to
buy the power of the Holy Spirit with money
(whence the term simonythe buying and selling
of ecclesiastical officescomes). St. Peter rebuked
him, which led Simon to beg that the Apostles pray
for him. Although the Bible does not say so, later
Christian writers, like St. Justin Martyr, record that
Simon did not reform his life, despite their prayers
for him, and he became known as the Father of
Heresies. By all reports, Simon was a Gnostic who
believed himself to have been granted special
enlightenment by the true God who dwelled beyond
the material world created by the false god who held
back humanitys spiritual development. Simon
manifested his enlightenment in the form of magic
and other dark powers, which he used against his
opponents (such as Christians), whom he consid-
ered servants of the false god. When Simon died
or shed his material body, as his followers
claimedhis corpse was stolen, cut into pieces, and
sold. His followers had no interest in recovering
these relics, since they despised the physical world,
but that didnt stop black magicians and other ene-
mies of the Christian Church from seeking them
out, in hopes that they might contain a portion of
Simons reputed power.
Physical Description: This artifact is a black-
ened, mummified human hand. Its skin is leathery
and stiff, but surprisingly resilient to damage. The
wrist is bound in a silver band to which a cord can
be tied.
Current Whereabouts: An Italian cardinal
with dreams of being elected Pope currently pos-
sesses the hand. He has used its powers in the past
to advance his ecclesiastical career, which has
drawn the attention of the Society of St. Albert.
Consequently, he has become more circumspect in
recent years, lest the Churchs occult investigators
discover his dark secret.
Alternatives: The hand could be that of anoth-
er famous heretic or apostate, or it might be a relic
for a weird Christian sect who believed that Simon
did repent and became a saint.
Game Mechanics: The possessor of the hand
can permanently drain 1 point of Wisdom from any
person he touches with it. There is no limit on the
number of times per day this ability can be used, but
it cannot affect the same person more than once per
day. The possessor temporarily gains the points
drained, up to a maximum number equal to his char-
acter level. These points last until the next sunrise.
In addition, the user can cast the following spells a
number of times per day equal to his Charisma
modifier: bestow curse, cause fear, faiths fury,
flaming wrath, inflict critical wounds, inflict light
wounds, inflict moderate wounds, and inflict serious
wounds.
Type: Artifact (magic); Caster Level: 20th;
Purchase DC: 45; Weight: 1 lb.

Campaign Information
USED IN THE CAMPAIGN? YES NO STILL EXISTS IN THE CAMPAIGN? YES NO
DID YOU CHANGE THE ARTIFACT IN ANY WAY? YES NO (IF YES, DESCRIBE BELOW)
______________________________________________________________________________
PLAYER CHARACTERS KNOWLEDGE OF THE DEVICE: ___________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
NOTES: ________________________________________________________________________

7 of 16
Modern Another 13 Occult Artifacts

Hangmans Noose
History: For as long as governments have for-
mally executed criminals, there have been myths,
legends, and tall tales about the paraphernalia asso-
ciated with this grim duty. The hangmans noose is
one of the few that endures to the present day. To
function as a charm against evil, a noose must first
made and then sold by an actual hangman, an occu-
pation in short supply in most countries of the
Western world in the 21st century. Once obtained,
the would-be user must wear the noose around his
own neck for nine consecutive days, after which
point it becomes enchanted. To employ the charm,
the noose must be burned to ashes and the ashes
rubbed onto the torso of the one who seeks protec-
tion.
Physical Description: A charmed hangmans
noose looks no different than an ordinary noose of
the same type: a length of thick rope with a knotted
loop large enough to go over a human beings head.
Current Whereabouts: A hangmans noose is
not a singular artifact. Charmed versions, however,
are quite rare, since the process of creating them is
obscure and nooses that meet the requirements of
the process are almost as uncommon. The largest
number of enchanted hangmans nooses is found in
the United States of America.
Alternatives: Other instruments of execution,
like bullets or hypodermic needles, might have sim-
ilar effects if destroyed. Alternately, a charmed
noose might bring bad luck upon the person in
whose name it is burned.
Game Mechanics: Burned, an enchanted hang-
mans noose grants the person who burns it Spell
Resistance 25 for 12 hours against all spells and
spell-like abilities cast by individuals with an
opposing allegiance, with the GM being the final
arbiter on what allegiances qualify as opposing.
Type: Artifact (magic); Caster Level: ;
Purchase DC: 21; Weight: .

Campaign Information
USED IN THE CAMPAIGN? YES NO STILL EXISTS IN THE CAMPAIGN? YES NO
DID YOU CHANGE THE ARTIFACT IN ANY WAY? YES NO (IF YES, DESCRIBE BELOW)
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
PLAYER CHARACTERS KNOWLEDGE OF THE DEVICE: ___________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
NOTES: ________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________

8 of 16
Modern Another 13 Occult Artifacts

Ica Stones
History: In 1966, Javier Cabrera, a physician in the
town of Ica, Peru, was given a small, carved rock by one
of his native patients as a gift. The stone was carved in a
fashion similar to the famed Nazca Lines. Intrigued,
Cabrera asked for more stones like the first one, which
the native provided. Over time, he amassed thousands of
them, which, at first, his patient claimed he had carved
himself. In time, though, the native admitted that he had
not carved them, but instead found them in a series of
caves and gorges not far from the Nazca Lines. The
native lied about carving them for fear of the Peruvian
authorities whom he rightly assumed would not take
kindly to his giving away precious antiquities. The
stones are in fact degenerate remnants of the psionic arts
of the lost continent of Mu, whose refugees fled to South
America after their home sank beneath the waves. Gifted
psionics, the Muvians used stones similar to the Ica
stones as power boosters to augment their own abili-
ties. Over time, their descendants lost the ability to make
stones as powerful as they once had and the Ica stones
are examples of these lesser psionic artifacts. Because so
few humans today are psionic, their true nature remains
largely unsuspected.
Physical Description: Each stone varies in size,
from those that can fit in the palm of a human hand to
those the size of a watermelon (or larger). Regardless of
size, the stones have images carved with continuous
lines etched into the rock surface. The etching reveals a
lighter color than the original dark varnish of age, yet the
etched grooves also bear traces of this varnish. The etch-
ings show a variety of things, from people to ancient ani-
mals to medical procedures.
Current Whereabouts: Ica stones can be found in
the possession of many psionically talented individuals
throughout the world, particularly in South America,
where they originate. Still others are in museums and pri-
vate collections and it is likely that some remain as yet
undiscovered.
Alternatives: The stones could originate some-
where else, such as Atlantis or Lemuria, if the GM does
not wish to postulate the existence of Mu. Another pos-
sible origin is the Grays (see Alien Heroes, also from
Ronin Arts, for more information), whose own psionic
abilities are considerable.
Game Mechanics: Each Ica stone has its own
unique benefit when possessed by an individual with
psionic abilities (or at least the Wild Talent feat). Some
of the most common abilities are:
Sustains possessor without food or water
+1 insight bonus to AC
+2 enhancement bonus to Wisdom
+2 enhancement bonus to Charisma
+2 enhancement bonus to Intelligence
Alertness (as the feat)
Sustains possessor without air
Absorbs psionic powers of 4th level or lower
(after absorbing twenty power levels, the
stone ceases to function).
Regenerate 1 point of damage per hour (cures
only damage taken while the character pos-
sesses the stone)
+1 competence bonus on attack rolls, saves,
skill checks, and ability checks
+1 manifester level
Ica stones have AC 20, 10 hit points, and hardness 5.
Type: Artifact (magic); Caster Level: 12th; Purchase
DC: 25-40 (varies); Weight: 1 lb.

Campaign Information
USED IN THE CAMPAIGN? YES NO STILL EXISTS IN THE CAMPAIGN? YES NO
DID YOU CHANGE THE ARTIFACT IN ANY WAY? YES NO (IF YES, DESCRIBE BELOW)
______________________________________________________________________________
PLAYER CHARACTERS KNOWLEDGE OF THE DEVICE: ___________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
NOTES: ________________________________________________________________________

9 of 16
Modern Another 13 Occult Artifacts

Imperial Mercury (Azoth)

History: The first emperor of a united China,
Qin Shihuangdi, died in 206 B.C. and was buried in
a vast tomb in Shaanxi. The tomb was not discov-
ered until 1974. When archeologists first entered it,
they were amazed by its contents, which included
all manner of art and other objects that attested to
the power and majesty Qin Shihuangdi. Among its
many marvels, the tomb contained a relief map of
the empire in gold and silver with rivers and seas
flowing with mercury, a chart of the heavens
sparkling above. Nearby were vast armies of terra-
cotta soldiers and horses to guard the emperor in
death (see Thirteen Occult Artifacts, also from
Ronin Arts, for more information). The mercury
used in the relief map was, as befitting an emperor,
not ordinary mercury but imperial mercury, also
known as azoth. Azoth has the ability to release the
elemental air contained within most material
objects, thereby making them light enough to float
if given sufficient momentum. During Qin
Shihuangdis reign, azoth played a key roll on pro-
viding his elite troops and assassins with magical
weapons, armor, and other paraphernalia that
allowed them to fly through the air and perform
incredible feats of strength. Legends of these flying
warriors survived through the centuries and were
dismissed by all but those knowledgeable in the
occult arts as nothing more than tall tales.
Physical Description: Imperial mercury looks
no different than ordinary mercury, being a silvery-
white liquid metal.
Current Whereabouts: Imperial mercury was
once mined extensively throughout China. The rich-
est veins were exhausted before the Yuan dynasty
seized power, while the lesser veins didnt play out
until the 18th century. Since then, there has been no
reliable source of azoth and most of what is found
in occult circles has been preserved from earlier
times. The British government currently possesses
the largest stores of imperial mercury in the world,
while the Japanese are a distant second.
Alternatives: Although traditionally associated
with mercury, azoth could be some other rare liquid,
including something wholly fantastical.
Game Mechanics: A single ounce of imperial
mercury can be used to coat up to 10 square feet of
other materials, releasing the elemental air within
them. The materials then function as if they had
been subjected to the effects of a levitate spell, if
pushed off the ground and given momentum. That
is, they will not float of their own accord, but only
if pushed by some other force. In addition, anyone
wearing or carrying items treated with azoth gain a
cumulative +5 bonus to all Jump and Tumble
checks for each item, to a maximum of +30. The
GM is the final arbiter on whether certain items
confer the benefit. Azoth-coated boots and armor,
for example, would very likely grant a bonus (+10
in this case), while a coated hat might add nothing,
depending on the GMs ruling.
Type: Artifact (magic); Caster Level: 5th;
Purchase DC: 32; Weight: .

Campaign Information
USED IN THE CAMPAIGN? YES NO STILL EXISTS IN THE CAMPAIGN? YES NO
DID YOU CHANGE THE ARTIFACT IN ANY WAY? YES NO (IF YES, DESCRIBE BELOW)
______________________________________________________________________________
PLAYER CHARACTERS KNOWLEDGE OF THE DEVICE: ___________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
NOTES: ________________________________________________________________________

10 of 16
Modern Another 13 Occult Artifacts

Kilogram Bar
History: For most of the world, the American
Revolution begun in 1776 is viewed simply as a
rebellion by colonies against their mother country,
albeit a phenomenally successful one. In truth, the
Revolution was the outward manifestation of a civil
war that pitted various factions of worldwide
Freemasonry against one another. Initially, French
Masons supported their American counterparts,
believing that in doing so they would further their
own vision of how to perfect the universe. Shortly
after the American Revolution, King Louis XVI,
manipulated by the Masons, authorized investiga-
tions into simplifying and regularizing the French
system of weights and measures. By 1795, this
resulted in the metric system being formally adopt-
ed by France, which became compulsory by 1840.
In the more than one hundred and fifty years since,
the metric system has been the cornerstone of con-
tinental European Masonrys attempt to start remak-
ing the universe according to its own plan. By and
large, it has been successful, although many
English-speaking Masons have used their consider-
able influence to slow or derail the metric systems
acceptance, particularly in the United States. At the
center of the European Masons plans are measure-
ment standards against which all other measure-
ments are compared. The kilogram bar held in
France is one such example. Imbued with mystical
power, it is one of the keys by which the Masons
hope to reshape reality according to their whims.
Physical Description: The kilogram bar is a
small platinum-iridium alloy bar, having a dull gray
color.
Current Whereabouts: The current official
kilogram bar is held in the Bureau International des
Poids et Mesures near Paris, France. This bar is not
the first bar to have been designated the standard by
which all others are measured. Others have held that
place in the past and have since been discarded, all
of which the Freemasons have acquired in their
efforts to perfect creation.
Alternatives: The other standard metric meas-
urements work just as well, should the GM wish to
use, for example, a meter or a liter as the basis of the
European Masons mystical power.
Game Mechanics: The bar itself has no occult
properties of itself. In the hands of several Master
Masons of the highest order, however, it can be used
to alter reality, by shifting all the weight and mass in
the universe. This alteration carries great risks,
which is why it has not yet been attempted.
Moreover, the fact that metric measurements are not
yet universally accepted makes such an alteration
even more risky. The Game Master should, there-
fore, use the kilogram bar solely as a dramatic ele-
ment in his campaign. Its precise effectsand their
repercussionscannot be easily quantified mechan-
ically.
Type: Artifact (magic); Caster Level: ;
Purchase DC: None; Weight: 2 lb.

Campaign Information
USED IN THE CAMPAIGN? YES NO STILL EXISTS IN THE CAMPAIGN? YES NO
DID YOU CHANGE THE ARTIFACT IN ANY WAY? YES NO (IF YES, DESCRIBE BELOW)
______________________________________________________________________________
PLAYER CHARACTERS KNOWLEDGE OF THE DEVICE: ___________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
NOTES: ________________________________________________________________________

11 of 16
Modern Another 13 Occult Artifacts

Kwakiutl Mask
History: Many Native American tribes
employed masks in their religious rituals. The
Kwakiutl masks were examples of these masks, but
they are not the only ones. The masks depict a
human face with a vertical seam that splits the face
in two. The face has small hinges on either side that
allow its outer portion to swing open, revealing a
second face underneath. This second face is com-
pletely black, except for two bright red eyes. When
the outer mask is swung open, its halves look some-
what like wings. While anthropologists offer many
different interpretations for the Kwakiutl masks, the
truth is that they are representations of the mothfolk,
who have been mystical patrons of many primitive
peoples since time immemorial. Using a mask is to
acknowledge the wisdom of the mothfolk and
implicitly to seek their guidance.
Physical Description: A Kwakiutl mask is a
wooden mask that looks vaguely like a human
beings face, although many masks have more
bizarre features. The mask is usually brightly col-
ored.
Current Whereabouts: The Kwakiutl mask is
not a singular artifact. Non-magical examples can
be found in museums and private collections all
over the world. Magical versions are rarer, held pri-
marily by Native American shamans who have reg-
ular contact with the mothfolk.
Alternatives: Other primitive cultures use
masks in their religious rituals. At the GMs discre-
tion, these too might have similar powers to the
Kwakiutl masks.
Game Mechanics: Donning an enchanted
Kwakiutl mask grants the wearer the ability to
speak and understand Mothfolk. In addition, the
wearer gains a +4 bonus to all Diplomacy checks
when dealing with mothfolk. At the GMs discre-
tion, this bonus might be applied to other related
skills (but only when dealing with the mothfolk).
Type: Artifact (magic); Caster Level: ;
Purchase DC: 22; Weight: 5 lb.

Campaign Information
USED IN THE CAMPAIGN? YES NO STILL EXISTS IN THE CAMPAIGN? YES NO
DID YOU CHANGE THE ARTIFACT IN ANY WAY? YES NO (IF YES, DESCRIBE BELOW)
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
PLAYER CHARACTERS KNOWLEDGE OF THE DEVICE: ___________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
NOTES: ________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________

12 of 16
Modern Another 13 Occult Artifacts

Philosophers Stone
History: The philosophers stone has been
sought since the beginning of time, as it is, in some
sense, the goal of every human being, whether they
realize it or not. The stone is a finite instantiation of
the Infinite and an example of the base made Pure.
The stone is both the symbol and the means by
which the fallen world may be raised up and
reclaim its divine birthright. Its also a good way to
get rich and live forever, which is why many less
reputable sorts have also sought the philosophers
stone. The first philosophers stones were created
in ancient Egypt, drawing on alchemical formulae
handed down from Atlantis and other earlier civi-
lizations. The Hermetic tradition preserved the
method of its creation, but did so in a manner that
prevented all but the most worthy and enlightened
seekers from achieving it. Throughout most of the
Classical and Middle Ages, few were able to create
philosophers stones. While the Renaissance and
early modern periods saw wider success, they were
not long lasting, as science triumphed over what it
deemed superstition. In the 21st century, only a
handful of people know the means to create
philosophers stones and most, unfortunately, are
unworthy of possessing such a lofty prize, using it
to further their own ends and to hold wealth and
power beyond their natural lifespans.
Physical Description: The stone is a large
lump of silvery black material. While it looks like
a stone, it has metallic characteristics as well (being
shiny and electrically conductive). The stone is also
hollow, filled with a clear liquid that is the source
of the stones power.
Current Whereabouts: The philosophers
stone is not a singular artifact and can, in theory, be
created by anyone who knows the method to do so.
Two of the most notable current possessors of
philosophers stones are Nicholas Flamel and the
Count of St. Germain. Flamel and his wife
Perenelle currently reside anonymously in north-
central France, while St. Germain travels the world
as he has since the 18th century. He was last seen
in Los Angeles, United States of America.
Alternatives: At the GMs discretion, the
philosophers stone may only create aqua vitae and
not be able to turn base metals into gold.
Alternately, the stone may do both, but take anoth-
er shape, depending on its origin.
Game Mechanics: The liquid in a single
philosophers stone can turn up to 5,000 pounds of
iron into silver or up to 1,000 pounds of lead into
gold. Alternately, the liquid can also be used to cre-
ate a single dose of aqua vitae, which halts aging
for 10 years. If used in this fashion, the stone can-
not be used to transmute metals.
Type: Artifact (magic); Caster Level: 20th;
Purchase DC: None; Weight: 3 lb.

Campaign Information
USED IN THE CAMPAIGN? YES NO STILL EXISTS IN THE CAMPAIGN? YES NO
DID YOU CHANGE THE ARTIFACT IN ANY WAY? YES NO (IF YES, DESCRIBE BELOW)
______________________________________________________________________________
PLAYER CHARACTERS KNOWLEDGE OF THE DEVICE: ___________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
NOTES: ________________________________________________________________________

13 of 16
Modern Another 13 Occult Artifacts

Ring of Set
History: After the sinking of Atlantis, the land
that would become Egypt was a stygian realm
whose sybaritic rulers were devoted black magic
and necromancy. Among them, it is said, was a sor-
cerer so powerful that later generations would con-
fuse tales of his exploits with those of their gods.
The sorcerer worshipped a demonic entity who
would eventually be known as Set and from him
learned to craft a ring by which to summon the dark
beings servants to do his bidding. With the ring, the
sorcerer gained great power and dared to challenge
the barbarian king of the greatest nation of this
long-ago time. Thanks to the magical assistance of
an ally, the king survived and the rings power was
turned back upon the sorcerer, who died in the back-
lash. The Ring of Set then passed into history, with
many would-be conquerors (including the Roman
emperor Tiberius) possessing it before succumbing
to the same fate as its maker. Unsurprisingly, the
safest way to hold on to the ring is not use its pow-
ers.
Physical Description: This gold ring is fash-
ioned in the shape of a serpent that coils its body
three times before biting its own tail. The serpents
head contains small yellowish gems for its eyes.
Current Whereabouts: The current owner of
the ring is a Belgian politician who, as yet, has no
idea of the rings origins or powers. It is believed
that both the Temple of the Serpent and
Vehmgerichte, however, do know these things and
are making every effort to obtain the ring, in the
first case for its power and in the second to destroy
it.
Alternatives: The ring might be used safely if
the wearer is a devout servant of Set.
Game Mechanics: The ring has two related
effects. First, it doubles the number of arcane spells
its wearer can cast, if he is already an arcane spell-
caster. Second, it grants arcane spellcasting ability
to its wearer if they do not already possess it. A non-
spellcasting wearer gains the ability to cast arcane
spells equal to a mage equal to half his character
level. However, every time the wearer casts an
arcane spell while wearing it, he must first save
against that spell as if he had cast it. If successful,
the spell functions as normal. If he fails, the spell
rebounds on the caster and affects him, without a
chance for a second save to resist the spell.
Type: Artifact (magic); Caster Level: ;
Purchase DC: 36; Weight: .

Campaign Information
USED IN THE CAMPAIGN? YES NO STILL EXISTS IN THE CAMPAIGN? YES NO
DID YOU CHANGE THE ARTIFACT IN ANY WAY? YES NO (IF YES, DESCRIBE BELOW)
______________________________________________________________________________
PLAYER CHARACTERS KNOWLEDGE OF THE DEVICE: ___________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
NOTES: ________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________

14 of 16
Modern Another 13 Occult Artifacts

Rolands Horn (Olifant)

History: In 778, the Frankish king
Charlemagne was engaged in a war against the
Muslim king of Saragossa. The king pretended that
he would convert to Christianity if Charlemagne left
him with his kingdom in peace. Charlemagne
agreed to do so and returned to France, believing
that the king would follow him back to Aachen, his
capital. A treacherous Frankish lord named Ganelon
conspired with the king to attack the rearguard of
Charlemagnes army, led by Roland. Roland,
despite being outnumbered, fights on bravely and
refuses to use his magical horn, Olifant, to summon
reinforcements to his side. He dies fighting the
Muslims, because his code of honor will not allow
him to ask for assistance. The horn wound up in
Muslim hands, where it remained until the Battle of
Las Navas de Tolosa in 1212, when the king of
Navarre obtained it. The horn was lost after Navarre
was absorbed into the united kingdom of Spain in
the early 16th century, although many groups, both
within Spain and without, attempted to find it.
Physical Description: Rolands Horn is an
oversized, hollowed-out ivory horn that has been
reinforced with gold and silver. Along its surface are
intricate trace work decorations in the Carolingian
style.
Current Whereabouts: During World War II,
the Thule-Gesellschaft attempted to obtain Rolands
Horn, but were foiled by French Resistance fighters,
who did not themselves find the artifact. So far as
anyone knows, no one has rescued it from its hidden
location within the Pyrenees, although rumors per-
sist that a leader of the Basque separatist movement,
Euskadi Ta Askatasuna (ETA), has recently come to
possess it.
Alternatives: The horn might instead by the
horn of the leader of the Wild Hunt or one of the
horns used by the Valkyries to call the valorous dead
to Valhalla.
Game Mechanics: Rolands Horn can be
sounded as a normal horn, but if the user sounds it
while facing a threat he believes to life-threatening,
it deals 10d6 points of sonic damage to creatures
within a 40-foot cone, stuns them for 1 round, and
causes them to be deafened for 4d6 rounds (a DC 19
Fortitude save reduces the damage by half and
negates the stunning and deafening). Crystalline
objects and creatures take 16d6 points of sonic dam-
age, with no save unless theyre held, worn, or car-
ried by creatures (Will DC 16 negates).
If the Horns magical abilities are used more
than once in a given day, there is a 20% cumulative
chance with each extra use that it explodes and
deals 10d6 points of damage to the person sounding
it (no save possible).
Type: Artifact (magic); Caster Level: 16th;
Purchase DC: 33; Weight: 1 lb.

Campaign Information
USED IN THE CAMPAIGN? YES NO STILL EXISTS IN THE CAMPAIGN? YES NO
DID YOU CHANGE THE ARTIFACT IN ANY WAY? YES NO (IF YES, DESCRIBE BELOW)
______________________________________________________________________________
PLAYER CHARACTERS KNOWLEDGE OF THE DEVICE: ___________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
NOTES: ________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________

15 of 16