This spell gains its name by allowing the caster to temporarily duplicate certain powers of Flandal's magical hammer, Rhondang.
When the spell is cast, the caster's hammer bursts into flames, taking on the characteristics of aflame tongue sword. Thus, while the spell lasts, the hammer is regarded as a +1 weapon, +2 vs. regenerating creatures, +3 vs. cold-using, flammable, and avian creatures, and +4 vs. undead. Likewise, it produces light equal to a torch and can ignite flammable objects on contact.
Shades of Rhondang functions only if used on a nonmagical hammer. If cast on a magical hammer or any other type of weapon, the spell automatically fails. Furthermore, the hammer to be affected must be owned and used by the caster, it cannot be passed to another creature. Attempting to cast the spell on someone else's hammer or seeking to pass the hammer to another creature immediately negates the spell.
Shades of Rhondang ends if subjected to a successful dispel magic or similar effect, if the caster is slain, rendered unconscious, or releases his grip on the handle. Since the caster must retain a hold on the hammer to prevent the spell from ending, he or she cannot cast spells that require somatic components, nor perform any actions that require the use of both hands.
The material component is the caster's holy symbol.
Notes: Granted by the gnome god Randal Steelskin.