I like using the dread artifacts. They're indestructible and have some bonus. I use them when whatever I'm fighting is not too demanding and save my good gear for the tougher stuff. However, as an archer, I'm not able to make use of the Scepter of Dread. How about at some point in the episode 2 story, you allow us to trade in the Scepter of Dread for some other dread weapon (Longbow of Dread, Sword of Dread, Polearm of Dread) that has the same properties as the scepter (+10 strength, ability to cast Blast of Dread)?
