Objects and Curses

[Michael]

In the first book there was an object that completely nullified Nick and Caleb's powers. We don't see it again in later books. The fact that Caleb could identify it by sight probably means that it is not *that* uncommon of an artifact, so why not send every demon force equipped with such an artifact whenever they want to capture Nick?

Also on curses; who can curse who? Is there a limit on what the curses can do. We've seen Archon curse Apollymi (in the main series) and we've heard that Laguerre and Grim cursed the Malachai. If the Malachai is such a big threat, why doesn't everyone curse him? Or is there specific rules that have to be followed to curse someone.

Lastly, also on curses, which races can curse? We know that gods can curse, but what about demons? If they can, what we've witnessed Monakribos do in Invision is... significant. And it would explain why the gods have so many issues :P

[Charlotte, Cheesy Cakes]

Michael, are you talking about the Star of Ishtaryn, which was identified by Nick's Grimoire? That was the only artifact I could find in the first book.

And you're right, it does have the capability of nullifying Nick's powers. It can also weaken any demon (or half-demon) or were that comes into contact with it, which is why I suspect that we haven't seen it since. I imagine that any demon stupid enough to go after the Malachai (who can recharge his powers from other demons), probably doesn't want to touch an artifact that can weaken them in the process.

As for curses ... I honestly don't know. Sounds like a question for SK herself.

[Michael]

Star of Ishtaryn, that's what I meant. It could be so that they can use the advantage of numbers. I mean, an army of demons vs. a Malachai can go either way. An army of powerless demons vs. a powerless Malachai would go in the Malachai's favour. Sheer numbers would be a definite win against him.