Crystal of the Ebon Flame II (Magic Crystal)

The crystal of the ebon flame is a flawless, diamond-like stone the size of a woman's hand, cut into a faceted spire that suggests a flickering candle flame. When touched, white and black rays leap within the stone's heart, giving the illusion of real fire deep within the gem.
Like so many artifacts, the origins of the crystal of the ebon flame are lost in the shrouds of the mysterious past. Dwarves swear that the stone is like no other found beneath the earth, although they vainly contend that only a dwarven jeweller of the greatest skill could have cut the stone so perfectly. Several scholars suggest that the stone may have a stellar origin, possibly mined from the very heart of a burned-out star.
Because of its scintillating beauty and magical powers, the crystal became the powerful holy relic of an obscure cult of fire worshippers. Once the cult was powerful and influential, but so vile were its practices that popular outrage led to a persecution of its followers. The few devout that escaped continued to practice in great secrecy. With time, knowledge of the cult transmuted into myth and legend, until truth and fiction are completely blurred.
The obscure background of the crystal of the ebon flame's cult allows a DM broad latitude in creating an adventure around this artifact. While in a strange city, the characters may tangle with the cult, eventually raiding a secret temple where the flame is held. Alternatively, the PCs may discover the flame in the ancient ruins of a cult temple (held by monsters or degenerate cultists). Naturally, the cultists want their crystal back. Eventually the PCs can expose the cult and the threat it poses to the city, kingdom, or empire. The artifact can then be placed under the protection of local officials (and it can return another day).
Invoked Powers: An owner can summon shades (2/day). This and all powers are activated by gazing intently into its heart for Id4 rounds.
Random Powers: Four from Artifact Table 1-16: Minor Powers, one from Artifact Table 1-15: Major Powers.
Curse: All within 30 feet of the activated crystal (including the owner) must roll a successful saving throw vs. spell or be affected by a fire charm spell. Charmed characters are also subject to a permanent suggestion spell (a second saving throw is allowed) attempting to convince them to become devoted followers of the flame's cult. The stone's sinister intelligence is determined to increase its power by adding more worshippers and slaying the followers of other gods. Fearing exposure, it uses stealth to carry out its goals.
Suggested Means of Destruction:
* It must be melted in the core of the earth
* It must be shattered on the Paraelemental Plane of Ice
* It must be crushed beneath Thor's hammer
Category:Encyclopedia Magica Magic Items
Category:Magic Items
Category:Magic Crystals