Rod of Lordly Might: This rod has functions that are spell-like, but it can also be used as magic weapons of various sorts. It also has several more mundane uses. The rod of lordly might is metal, thicker than other rods, with a flanged ball at one end and various studs along its length. It weighs 10 pounds, thus requiring 16 or greater Strength to wield properly (-1 penalty to attack rolls for each point of Strength below 16).

The spell-like functions of the rod are:

• Paralyzation upon touch, if the wielder so commands

• Fear upon all enemies viewing it, if the wielder so desires (6-foot maximum range)

• Drain 2d4 hit points from a touched opponent and bestow them upon the rod wielder, up to the rod wielder's normal maximum.

Each function draws off one charge from the rod. The functions entitle victims to saving throws vs. spell, with the exception of the draining function above—this requires a successful hit during melee combat.

The weapon uses of the rod do not use charges. These are:

• mace +2

• sword of flame +1 when button #1 is pushed. A blade springs from the ball; the ball becomes the sword's hilt. The weapon shortens to an overall length to three feet.

• battle axe +4 when button #2 is pushed. The sword blade springs forth, and the handle can be lengthened up to 12 feet, for an overall length of from 6 feet to 15 feet. In 15-foot length, the rod is suitable for use as a lance.

The mundane uses of the rod do not use charges. These are:

• Climbing pole. When button #4 is pushed, a spike that can anchor in granite is extruded from the ball, while the other end sprouts three sharp hooks. The rod lengthens 5 to 50 feet in a single round, stopping when button #4 is pushed. Horizontal bars three inches long fold out from the sides, one foot apart, in staggered progression. The rod is firmly held by spike and hooks and will bear up to 4,000 pounds weight. It retracts by pushing button #5.

• The ladder function can also be used to force open doors. The rod's base is planted 30 feet or less from the portal to be forced and is in line with it. The force exerted is equal to storm giant Strength.

• When button #6 is pushed, the rod will indicate magnetic north and give the possessor a knowledge of his approximate depth beneath the surface (or height above it).

The rod of lordly might cannot be recharged. When its charges are exhausted, spell-like functions cease, as do all weapon functions except the mace +2. The rod continues to work in all other ways.

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