War of the 3 Crowns

A survivor of Constantinople escapes from the smoldering ruins of the once mighty Heart of the World; on him, clutched in fear etched hands is an ancient manuscript. The last survivor of the once Holiest of cities, it's time yellowed pages contain the long lost location of the location of the legendary relic: The Crown of Thorns. Borne aloft on the redeemers brow at the crucifixion, it's mummified barbs still said to retain the blood of Christ himself. The discovery of this artifact are immeasurable to whichever side can claim it. To the faithful the blood of the living Christ means a potential resurgence of the church's metachrist program. To the forces of inferno, the holy blood of Jesus Christ, who was part mortal part God can be the key ingredient in an ancient and profane rite to bring about the monstrous bearer's ascension.