Rod of Withering

This rod is made from iron, and is quite long, measuring nearly four feet in length. It is topped with a large crystal, which is a deep purple in color. Along the length of the rod of withering, there are several intricate engravings, depicting various arcane symbols and arcane writing. The rod is cold to the touch, and when held, it emits a faint chill that can be felt in the hand and forearm. Additionally, when it is used in spellcasting, a faint, ominous aura is emitted from the rod.

This material is Open Game Content, and is licensed for public use under the terms of the Open Game License v1.0a.

A rod of withering acts as a +1 Light Mace that deals no hit point damage. Instead, the wielder deals 1d4 points of Strength damage and 1d4 points of Constitution damage to any creature she touches with the rod (by making a melee touch attack). If she scores a critical hit, the damage from that hit is permanent ability drain. In either case, the defender negates the effect with a DC 17 Fortitude save.

Strong necromancy; CL 13th; Craft Rod, Craft Magic Arms and Armour, Contagion; Price 25,000 gp.