It's NOT by design... NOT originally that is. You'd know had you played Early Access as back then the Artefact ALWAYS stayed with Shadowheart unless you managed to have her die on the Early Access version of the Nautiloid Ship. Back then, if you did manage to have her die the Artefact magically floats towards Tav a la "Pokemon I Choose You!" and will then be tied to Tav Permanently. Another proof it is not intended is how secretive Shadowheart is about the item and tells you off that it is none of your business. So yeah "Lore wise" it shouldn't be automagically given and bound to our MC if we're NOT Shadowheart and she doesn't die losing her bind to it.

Also by your logic, and how the item works "Lore wise", it SHOULD automagically return to Shadowheart once you put her back in your active party.

RFE - Addendum:

There is also a Long Rest Night Scene with Shadowheart you'll likely miss if you're playing a character like Tav and the Artefact has bound to you, where Shadowheart will be seen trying to open it and you'll notice that the thing is inscribed with Githyanki runes. So yeah it's definitely NOT supposed to be removed from Shadowheart.

Last edited by CahosRahneVeloza; 03/10/23 06:45 AM.