Red lyrium

Red lyrium is a rare, more potent and more addictive form of raw lyrium created when normal lyrium is corrupted by the darkspawn taint. It can be handled by anyone and apparently, does not require dilution and ingestion to take effect. All that is required is to be near the mineral.

Red lyrium has the ability to grant certain magical abilities that are unique. For example, it is known to grant the ability to animate objects and even the power to make things float. It also seems to enhance templar and physical abilities and when processed into a Primeval Lyrium Rune, it will increase a weapon's attack speed.

Eventually though, long term exposure to red lyrium drives all of its users insane. This madness affects even normally resistant dwarves. The symptoms seem to vary. For some, they are driven to madness by a 'song' which compels them to try to force others to hear it; usually through depraved means. For others, their penchant for violence and paranoia are exacerbated. Physical changes also emerge such as red lyrium veins appearing on the skin, red eyes, or the mineral starts growing on the body. If abused too much, the red lyrium will shatter in their hands and cause their body to become petrified. Only Seekers of Truth are resistant to its close contact corruption. It is also known to thin the Veil, allowing Spirits and apparitions to interact with the physical world.