Skeletal Hand

Like the 2nd-level spell spectral hand, this spell causes a semi-corporeal, bony hand shaped from the caster's life force to materialize within the spell's range. The hand moves as the caster directs. It can convey touch-delivered attack spells of 4th level or less, striking as the caster, but with a +4 bonus to hit. At the caster's option, the skeletal hand may instead make a physical attack, inflicting 1d10 points of damage with a successful hit. The caster may use the skeletal hand in either fashion from round to round, or simply allow the hand to hover in place while she performs other activities. The hand receives flank or rear attack bonuses if the caster is in a position to do so.

The skeletal hand is vulnerable to attack. Only weapons of +1 or better magical enchantment can strike it, as if it had AC -4. Any damage ends the spell and inflicts 1d4 points of damage upon the caster.

In addition, a priest of good alignment can keep the hand at bay with a successful turning attempt as if against an undead creature of 5 Hit Dice.

The material component is a splinter of bone from the hand of a ghast.