Staff of Surprises (Magic Staff)

This type of staff is usable by all intelligent creatures who know the command words of the particular specimen they are holding. Each staff function can be used in combination with all other staff functions, but only one function can be activated or deactivated per round. Each function drains one charge whenever activated, but “programming” item functions requires only the necessary spellcasting, speech, and concentration: no charges are drained. Activation requires a command word: deactivation requires that the word be spoken backward.
A staff of surprises can, upon command, suddenly grow a blade from either end of itself, doing 1d8 hp damage (1d12 to creatures larger than human-size) when used as a weapon. The weight and balance of the staff do not change. Such a staff can also suddenly extend in length up to 60', to serve as a pike, sliding pole, bridging or reaching aid. It will remain utterly straight and rigid, and can withstand 16 hp damage or 777 pounds before breaking.
A staff of surprises can emit a “preprogrammed” sound or speech, of up to seven seconds' duration or 15 spoken words. This may be a message, warning, incantation, threat, or an intent to deceive others into thinking a particular being or monster is near. If the sound is a spell incantation, no spell can be cast or set off. But the sound can be an activation word for a magical item if touch or will power is not also required. The staff's user determines what sounds will be “programmed.”
A staff of surprises can also emit a visual illusion of any human-size creature or object. This image must be created by casting any illusion producing spell upon the staff, which absorbs an illusion contacting it if the staff's command word is spoken at the time. The illusion will be as good as the cast original (ranging from vague and fuzzy to utterly lifelike) and can move, gesture, and act: range and area of effect are as per the original spell or power. The image cannot speak or be made to react to its surroundings in any way, but it lasts for up to seven rounds (fewer if the programmer desires or if the staff wielder ends it sooner). Touching the image will not dispel or disrupt it.
Category:Encyclopedia Magica Magic Items
Category:Magic Items
Category:Magic Staves
Category:Magic Weapons