====== Black Skull of Mastery Item ======

{{ rpd:images:black_skull_of_mastery_item.png|Black Skull of Mastery }}

The Black Skull of Mastery is a special artifact item in Remixed Dungeon that allows the Necromancer class to advance to the Lich subclass.

==== Description ====
The Black Skull of Mastery is an ancient artifact that serves as both a class advancement item and a powerful quest artifact. It is dropped by the Lich boss specifically for players of the Necromancer class and allows them to achieve true mastery of necromancy by transforming into a Lich.

==== Properties ====
  * **Type**: Mastery Item / Artifact
  * **Stackable**: No
  * **Class Restriction**: Only usable by Necromancer class
  * **Action**: "Necromancer" - Opens subclass selection window
  * **Sprite**: Uses image index 19 from artifacts.png

==== Acquisition ====
  * Dropped by the [[rpd:lich_mob|Lich]] boss in the Necropolis level
  * Only drops for players who are already playing as a Necromancer
  * Represents the pinnacle achievement for the Necromancer class

==== Mechanics ====
  * When used by a Necromancer, opens the subclass selection window
  * Allows advancement to the Lich subclass (HeroSubClass.LICH)
  * Transforms the character with significant stat and ability changes
  * Reduces Strength by 2 points but doubles maximum skill points
  * Triggers mastery effects (sound, animation, particles)

==== Transformation Effects ====
  * **Strength Penalty**: -2 Strength points
  * **Skill Boost**: Double maximum skill points
  * **Class Change**: Becomes the Lich subclass
  * **Special Message**: "Became a Lich, at the cost of %d Strength"

==== Strategy ====
  * Obtainable only by defeating the Lich boss as any class to unlock Necromancer, then playing as Necromancer and defeating Lich again
  * Represents the highest progression path for Necromancer class
  * The STR penalty requires careful equipment management
  * The doubled skill points provide significant advantages in skill usage

==== Technical Details ====
  * **Java Class**: [[https://github.com/NYRDS/remixed-dungeon/blob/master/RemixedDungeon/src/main/java/com/nyrds/pixeldungeon/items/necropolis/BlackSkullOfMastery.java|com.nyrds.pixeldungeon.items.necropolis.BlackSkullOfMastery]]
  * **Parent Class**: [[https://github.com/NYRDS/remixed-dungeon/blob/master/RemixedDungeon/src/main/java/com/nyrds/pixeldungeon/items/common/MasteryItem.java|MasteryItem]]
  * **Implementation**: Extends MasteryItem base class
  * **Mastery Item**: Awards mastery badge when picked up by appropriate class

==== Content Verification ====
  * Information source: Java Classes BlackSkullOfMastery.java and MasteryItem.java
  * Mechanics verified from source code analysis
  * STR penalty and skill point changes confirmed from MasteryItem.choose()

==== Related ====
  * [[rpd:lich_mob|Lich (Mob)]] - Boss that drops this item
  * [[rpd:lich_subclass|Lich (Subclass)]] - The subclass unlocked by using this item
  * [[rpd:necromancer_class|Necromancer Class]] - The class required to use this item
  * [[rpd:the_soulbringer|Soulbringer]] - Alternative name for this artifact
  * [[rpd:black_skull_item|Black Skull]] - Related but different item for non-Necromancer classes
  * [[rpd:mastery_items|Mastery Items]] - Other items that grant subclass advancement
  * [[rpd:artifacts|Artifacts]] - Other special items in the game
  * [[rpd:necromancy|Necromancy]] - Related game mechanics

{{tag> rpd items artifacts quest necromancy mastery}}