The Lich: A Study of Undead Magic

The Lich: A Study of Undead Magic

By Thokron Tabozieth, Scholar of the Arcane

Introduction

Liches are the remains of great wizards who embrace undeath as a means of preserving their power and knowledge. They are among the most feared and hated creatures in the world, as they seek to dominate and destroy all life. Liches are driven by a twisted obsession with magic, and will stop at nothing to acquire more spells, artifacts, and secrets.

Creation

The process of becoming a lich is a dark and complex ritual that requires a high level of arcane skill and a complete disregard for morality. The aspiring lich must first create a phylactery, a receptacle that will hold their soul and anchor them to the world. The phylactery can be any object, but it must be well hidden and protected, as destroying it is the only way to permanently kill a lich.

The next step is to brew a potion of transformation, a vile concoction that contains rare and exotic ingredients, such as the blood of a unicorn, the heart of a dragon, and the eye of a beholder. The potion must be consumed while casting a powerful spell that transfers the soul into the phylactery and kills the body. The body then rises as an undead creature, a lich.

Appearance and Habitat

Liches usually retain the appearance of their former selves, albeit decayed and skeletal. Their flesh is dry and withered, their eyes glow with a malevolent light, and their robes are tattered and stained. Some liches adorn themselves with jewels and ornaments, while others prefer a more simple and austere look. Liches often carry a staff, a wand, or a book as a symbol of their authority and a focus for their spells.

Liches can be found in any place that suits their interests and schemes. They often dwell in ancient tombs, forgotten temples, or hidden lairs, where they can conduct their experiments and research in peace. Liches may also seek out places of magical significance, such as ley lines, portals, or ruins, where they can tap into the arcane energies and secrets. Liches are usually solitary, but they may occasionally ally with other powerful beings, such as dragons, demons, or other liches, for mutual benefit or protection.

Abilities

Liches are formidable foes, as they possess both the intelligence and the magic of their former selves, enhanced by their undead nature. Liches have access to a wide range of spells, from offensive to defensive, from illusion to necromancy. They can cast spells without verbal or somatic components, and they can use their paralyzing touch to immobilize their enemies. Liches also have several innate abilities that make them even more dangerous.

Danger Level

Liches are extremely dangerous creatures, and should not be underestimated or provoked. They are cunning and ruthless, and will use their magic and minions to their advantage. They are also very resilient, and can only be killed by destroying their phylactery. Liches are a threat to all life, and should be opposed by any means necessary. Only the most brave and skilled adventurers should attempt to face a lich, and only with ample preparation and caution.