Hypatia's Chariot

Origin
Hypatia was a mathematician, astronomer and philosopher who lived in Alexandria during its rule under the Byzantine Empire during the fifth century. Daughter of a mathematician herself, she continued her father’s work in preserving ancient Greek scientific texts. Her own works included discussions on number theory, geometry, designs for an astrolabe and possibly even conjecture of a heliocentric model pushed forwards by Galileo a millennium later. She was the head of the Alexandria branch of Neoplatonists, who believed that the unreachable source called “The One” was where creativity, being and matter were first generated.

Her belief system was considered to be Pagan at the time, which brought her into conflict with the rising Christian populace. The local bishops had exacerbated the religious divide by attacking non-Christians, including Jews and Neoplatonists. The governor Orestes however did not want anybody persecuted, as he was friendly with people such as Hypatia. Bishop Cyril insinuated Hypatia was blocking attempts to reach an understanding between him and Orestes, as he knew Hypatia would be an easier target than the governor. An angry group of Christians took to the streets, grabbed Hypatia and proceeded to beat and tear her apart using roofing tiles.

Effects
Will increase the user’s mathematical abilities depending upon their level of religious or spiritual devotion. The stronger they believe or more important they are to their community’s wellbeing, the greater the effect. After an unspecified period of time, the user will begin to develop large bumps across their body. These will stretch outwards until they eventually burst, revealing puncture wounds that originally developed from with the user.