Sword of Darkness

This spell creates a jet-black sword that radiates a palpable aura of evil. The sword can appear anywhere within the range of the spell. When cast, the wu jen targets the spell on one creature. Thereafter, the sword can attack only that creature. The wu jen must concentrate on the actions of the sword, causing it to strike as if he held it in his own hand (nonproficiency penalties do not apply).

On a successful hit, the sword temporarily drains the creature hit of 1-3 levels or Hit Dice. Appropriate hit points, fighting ability, spell levels, and level powers are lost. The sword itself causes no physical damage. A creature reduced below 0 level or Hit Dice is slain. In 1–3 days, the spirit returns as a kuei (undead). Lost levels are regained 1-3 turns after the sword of darkness disappears, provided the character has not died; however, lost spells are not regained. These spells must be memorized again before they can be cast.

The material component for this spell is a katana or long sword worth at least 20 gp, which is shattered against a stone.