For whatever reason, these updates have a very Moorcockian (as in Michael Moorcock, Elric of Melnibone) feel to them. Especially the part about Rhul et al. -- they remind me of the various supernatural entitities whose help Elric sought in his various adventures (especially Stormbringer, the book). Of course, most of Elric's allies ended up as soul-food for Stormbringer, the sword... we can hope Eadric won't follow that path!
My hat is also off to Sep for employing "one hand giveth and the other taketh away" -- at the same time that Graz'zt begins taking a more active role, the heroes also gain new allies. Good DM trick to keep things in a state of tense balance.
As for Nym, I take it that his discarding of his torc is meant to symbolize his adoption of the Vow of Poverty (and the accompanying Acetic benefits) from Book of Exalted Deeds.