Shard of Ethereal Echoes
Wondrous Item (Artifact), rare (requires attunement)
This small, translucent crystal shard hums with a soft, undulating resonance, appearing to ripple with the memories of voices long past. When held, the shard feels warm to the touch, almost as if it is alive with echoes of forgotten realms.
Once attuned, the bearer gains the ability to tap into the memories embedded within the shard. As a bonus action, the user can activate one of the following effects, using energy drawn from the echoes and whispers present in the crystal:
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Ethereal Whisper: The user can cast Speak with Dead once per long rest without expending a spell slot, channeling memories from beyond. The interaction provides them insight into recent events surrounding the deceased, gaining knowledge useful for solving quests or mysteries.
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Echoing Shield: As a reaction, when an attack is made against the bearer, they can surround themselves with a protective barrier of ethereal echoes, granting a +2 bonus to AC for that attack, absorbing the impact as if it were suspended in time. This effect can be used twice per long rest.
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Phantom Projection: Once per day, the holder can create a spectral illusion of themselves that lasts for up to 1 minute. This illusion can be moved up to 30 feet away and can perform a single action of the user’s choice. The user can see through the projection’s eyes and hear through its ears, allowing them to scout or distract enemies.
Additionally, if the bearer receives damage while holding the shard, they can choose to absorb a portion of it into the crystal. The bearer can reduce the damage taken by the amount rolled on a d6 (once per long rest). The shard glows brightly for a moment, revealing haunting images of the past, and the absorbed damage manifests as a flicker of shadow around the holder.
However, using this artifact comes with a price. Prolonged attunement (beyond 10 days) can lead to paranoia, as the bearer occasionally hears whispers and sees fleeting visions that disrupt their concentration. If the bearer attunes to the shard for more than 10 days, they must succeed on a DC 15 Wisdom saving throw at the end of each long rest or gain one level of madness as they become more entwined with the echoes of the past.
This remarkable shard presents opportunities for exploration, combat enhancements, and narrative development, making it a versatile tool for adventurers pursuing the mysteries of the ethereal plane.
