![[ArkosNew.png]] # Arkos Xandros _Human Necromancer | [[Cindersworn]] (former) | Hunting for a cure_ ## Summary A former [[Red Wizards|Red Wizard]] turned reluctant [[Soulmonger]] who once helped the [[Cindersworn]] defeat [[Thay]]'s forces at [[Gauntlgrym]]. [[Fae Duskdancer]] told [[Sister Garaele]] he'd become a soulmonger like [[Petra]], leaving her troubled. Now racing [[Valindra Shadowmantle]] and [[Vorthain Crimsonthorn]] to find a cure—his investigation points toward [[Old Skull Tor]], where [[Tashara]] currently operates with [[Nathaly Kormallis]]'s body. He doesn't know [[Tashara]] possesses the [[Tome of Unlife]]. %% ## At a Glance Towering frame with skin like weathered parchment. Necromantic sigils glow beneath his skin when souls are near; his hands tremble when he's not actively controlling them. Hoarse whisper that splits into overlapping voices when agitated. Frequently presses palms against temples as if holding something in. Racing to find a cure before his hunger consumes what remains of his humanity. His research has identified the [[Tome of Unlife]] as potentially containing answers—unaware that [[Tashara]] already possesses it. This collision course could make him an ally, a victim, or a source of critical information about [[Petra]]'s condition. ## Personality Intensely remorseful, academically brilliant, desperately controlled. Maintains detailed journals of every soul he's consumed, believing remembrance might lead to their release. ## Quote _"I remember every name. If I stop remembering, their suffering becomes meaningless."_ ## Background **The Red Wizard:** Rose through ranks as [[Szass Tam]]'s protégé, overseeing [[Dread Ring]] creation until witnessing his first completed ring consume thousands. Fled [[Thay]] with critical research. **The Cindersworn:** Proved himself during the fellowship's campaign against the [[Red Wizards]] at [[Gauntlgrym]]. Formed unlikely bond with [[Grimna Blackaxe]], who recognized a similar quest for worthiness. **The Transformation:** After the fellowship dissolved following Grimna's sacrifice, he retreated into hermitage—making himself vulnerable. [[Acererak]], seeking vengeance against [[Artus Cimber]] for rescuing [[Petra]], dispatched the [[Sewn Sisters]] to capture him. They transformed him over nightmarish months. ## Stats **Archmage** (MM 342) with: - **Soulmonger Trait:** When humanoid dies within 30 ft., DC 15 Wis save or consume their soul - **Soul Sight:** See souls of recently deceased within 60 ft. - **Spell Swaps:** Replace enchantment with necromancy (*speak with dead*, *vampiric touch*, *spirit shroud*) %%