[_Issola_ spoiler] Jag writes: I always assumed that the first mission to retrieve the staff was in order to get him willing to work with them before sending him to the Paths. And it may have also been partially setup by the Gods in order to help him get Spellbreaker. Judging by Verra's reaction in _Issola_, i doubt that she would have planned for Vlad to get Spellbreaker if there was any chance it would be recombined into Godslayer. rone -- New from the makers of Li'l Swimmers: Li'l Eaters. Edible underwear that looks just like Mommy's and Daddy's! - Kibo