Crucible of Melting: A crucible is a small bowl, usually made of fired clay or porcelain, used for heating substances to extreme temperatures. The bowl is usually placed on a furnace. The crucible of melting, however, requires no furnace. It melts any metals placed within it when the command word is spoken. It takes one turn to bring the crucible to a sufficient temperature to melt metals placed within it. It has no effect on substances other than metals.

The average crucible of melting can hold up to one cubic foot of material. Note that magical items are allowed an item saving throw vs. magical fire to avoid destruction. Crucibles of melting are most often found (when found at all) in the laboratories of wizards, particularly enchanters who specialize in the construction of magical devices.

Whenever a crucible of melting is used, there is a 5% chance of a mishap resulting in an explosion that inflicts 3d10 points of damage to all creatures within 10 feet. A save vs. rod, staff, or wand is allowed, with success indicating half damage. The crucible is allowed an item saving throw vs. disintegration. If it fails, it is destroyed; otherwise, it is unharmed and may be used again.

Half of all crucibles remain hot for 3 turns. The rest remain hot until a command word is spoken to cancel the heat.

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