Death Rock

The Death Rock is an evil relic of inky black stone, roughly the size of a man's clenched fist. When touched, the rock pulsates faintly, like the beating of a heart, and leaves the sensation of warm greasy moistness on the fingertips. The Death Rock exudes a palpable aura of evil noticeable to intelligent creatures.

History

It is said that the Death Rock is the product of some far-distant eastern cult that worshipped a great salamander of the river. The cult was evil and its rites were of the foulest kinds. For years the cult survived openly, and although hated by all, no one could act against it.

It is said that the heart became a stone, still filled with great and evil powers. Over the centuries, the Death Rock has found its way to the west, leaving ruin and destruction in its wake. It has not been seen for much time and it might now be finally lost forever.

Campaign Use

Characters should only find the Death Rock if the DM wants to sorely tempt and test the heroes. The rock grants great power, but only to one person and at terrible cost to the PC's companions. The DM should know the players well, for if the temptation succeeds, serious ill will could develop among the players, threatening the harmony of the group.

Powers

Constant. The Death Rock gives its owner all the abilities of a necromancer-mage of the same level as the character. The character knows all necromancy spells appropriate to that level but can only memorize and use necromantic spells. The character gains no hit points and does not earn or record experience as a necromancer. Experience and hit dice are gained normally in the character's other class and each time a new level is gained, the character also advances as a necromancer. The character loses none of the abilities of the other class and can freely mix the powers of both classes. The most favorable adjustments to THACO, saving throws, etc. are used. If the character is a wizard, the selection of spells is doubled, although the PC is still limited to necromantic spells for the additional ones.

Curse. To activate and maintain the power of the Rock, the character's closest companion must be claimed each week as a zombie slave. If this is not done, the Rock instantly vanishes, not to be seen again.

Suggested Means of Destruction

• It must be burned in the Flames of Pure Truth.
• It must be used to slay a god of death.
• It must be given to a man who was never alive.