Rod of Lordly Might

This powerful item has a number of different functions.

• This item appears to be a +2 heavy mace with 6 metal buttons visible on the haft.

• Once the rod is grasped, it imparts its abilities to the possessor.

• The buttons allow the wielder to transform the shape of the weapon as a minor action. In order to use a weapon form without penalty, the wielder must have the appropriate proficiency. None of the button functions consume charges.

• The weapon also grants a number of innate abilities that consume charges.

• Button #1 [simple] The weapon transforms into a +1 flaming long sword.

• Button #2 [simple] The weapon transforms into a +4 battle axe.

• Button #3 [simple] (adds 1-4 segments) The weapon transforms into a +3 spear. The longer the wielder presses the button, the longer the spear will be, growing to 6-ft. on a quick press and out to 15-ft. on a longer press (and anywhere in between). Thus the weapon is usable as a short, medium or long spear. Once the weapon reaches 15-ft. it is considered +3 awl pike. A continued press transforms it into a +3 heavy lance. Each length-category requires 1 segment of time spent holding the button (thus, 5 segments to become a lance).

• Button #4 [simple] The weapon transforms into a climbing pole-ladder up to 50-ft. long. It has a hook on one end with a spike at the other and rungs (bars) extend from the shaft. The pole supports up to 4,000-lbs. The pole can also be used to force open a door within 30-ft. (the chance is 100% or 95% if the portal is locked or barred). The pole extends 5-ft. per segment while the button is pressed.

• Button #5 [simple] This button transforms the weapon into a +2 heavy mace.

• Button #6 [simple] This button causes the weapon to vibrate when pointed in the direction of magnetic north. In addition, softly glowing numbers appear that indicate the weapon's depth underground or height above sea level.

The weapon can also be used in the following ways:

Fear Aura [innate; fear] (major) Range: 0; Area of Effect: Creatures in a 60-ft. radius; Duration: 10 rounds; In any of the rod's weapon forms, it can be used to create a 60-ft. radius aura of fear affecting any creature able to see the weapon. All creatures in the area must make a Wisdom (fear) save vs. Wand or become panicked for 10 rounds (save negates). This function drains 1 charge.

Paralyzation [melee; fear, paralysis] Range: Touch; Area of Effect: Creature touched; Duration: 10 rounds; In any of the rod's weapon forms, it can be used to make a contact attack. On a successful contact attack, the wielder can command the rod to paralyze the creature touched. The creature must make a Wisdom (fear) save vs. Poison or be paralyzed for 10 rounds (save negates). This function drains 1 charge.

Vampiric Drain [melee; necromantic] In any of the rod's weapon forms, it can be used to make a contact attack. On a successful contact attack, the wielder can command the rod to drain 2d4 hit points from the creature touched (no save). If damaged, the wielder is healed the same number of hit points. This function drains 1 charge.

• Charges. Rods of this type will have 5d10 charges. The rod cannot be recharged. Once the last charge is used, only buttons #1, #4, #5, and #6 continue to operate (no other functions work).