Swallowsong

Tales of Steria Duskfeather's spear have inspired centuries of research and expeditions in search of it. Iconic in both Concordian historical and religious artwork, Swallowsong was the weapon she wielded in the later days of the war, famously piercing through fey lines with its magic consuming abilities. Many fey lords and commanders fell to its blade, their spells bolstering the weapon's strength before it turned their own strength upon them in torrents of raw, arcane energy. Accounts of the battles report that as long as she held Swallowsong, no spell could touch her. While this is likely no more than simple exaggeration taking effect as it does with any legend, it has not dissuaded the thousands that have sought out the weapon, nor the plethora of fakes that routinely appear.

Through the varying accounts of its properties and deeds, certain consistent facts of Swallowsong can be established. Firstly, its origin is unknown, though the general consensus places it as a celestial creation. Some instead posit that it is fey in nature, but these outliers are usually laughed off or discredited. Second, it had strong anti-magic capabilities. A good many reliable accounts exist of its ability to both absorb and release magic, as well as rending enchantments and magic armaments. Less conclusive are discussions on its warding capabilities; while accounts of its protective nature are not necessarily in short supply, they tend to be nonspecific. While its chances of being innately anti-magic are highly improbable, it is much more believable that it was laden with abjuring enchantments. Lastly, but perhaps most importantly, there exist lesser known accounts of possible degenerative qualities in the weapon. While these accounts were systematically hunted down and destroyed by the Concordian church, there remain certain circles and individuals aware of stories of Steria's failing mental capabilities in her later years. It is worth considering the possibilities of malignant, unknown properties to the weapon.

The actual fate of Swallowsong is unknown, as it disappeared with Steria herself. Quite regularly a scholar or religious figure (or, equally regularly, an adventurer wielding a less than credible rumor) comes forward with new, supposed evidence of the weapon's resting place. This inevitably sparks a rush of expeditions from nobles, religious groups, historic institutions, audacious merchants, and adventurers alike in pursuit of it. Inevitably these all end in failure; at best, incredible disappointment and massive loss of time and funds, and at worst (and just as commonly) death.