Level: Wu Jen 4 (metal)
Components: V, S, M
Casting Time: 1 round
Range: Close (25 ft. + 5 ft./2 levels)
Target: One sword
Duration: 1 round/level
Saving Throw: None
Spell Resistance: No
When you cast this spell, you cause the target sword to hover and attack on its own, aiding a character you designate. The sword must be either unattended (in which case you choose which creature it will fight for, so long as both creature and weapon are within range) or in the possession of a willing ally who benefits from the spell.
The animated sword attacks using the initiative modifier and base attack bonus of the creature it fights for, though it gains no other attack or damage modifiers the creature might have (including those from Strength) and takes a –4 penalty on its attack rolls if the creature it fights for doesn’t have proficiency with the sword affected by the spell. The sword moves with the creature it fights for (and so can take the full attack action if that creature does), staying within 5 feet at all times and dropping to the ground if that creature is reduced to 0 or fewer hit points.
Controlling the sword requires no concentration, and the designated creature can fight with another weapon at the same time. The animated sword prevents two opponents from flanking the creature it fights for (though that creature can be flanked by additional opponents).
Material Component: A tiny stick puppet.
Source: Complete Arcane, page 102. Originally called dancing blade, which was used for a later spell for different classes and levels on page 109 of the Player’s Handbook II. While similar, the PH2 version animates any melee weapon but it stays by the caster, whereas the CA version for the wu jen must animate a sword but can be assigned to fight for any ally in range of the spell. It was finally decided to rename the CA version, since it only affected one class.