Malice is the rune word 'IthElEth' for melee weapons in Diablo II: Lord of Destruction. Malice's damage modifiers are minor at best, though the prevention of monster recovery as well as the guaranteed Open Wounds makes this a very effective weapon VS. Normal mode Bosses, especially should the rune word be inserted into a weapon with initially high damage. It might be a good idea to keep this weapon in reserve, however, as the Drain Life quality can be crippling after an extended period of time. Coupled with Life Regeneration at or above 5, or the Prayer aura of the Act II Combat Hireling, the latter can be avoided, bringing the weapon to its full potential.