Nimbus of Lightning
(Evocation)
Level: 5
Range: 90 yds.
Components: V, S, M
Duration: Special
Casting Time: 5
Area of Effect: 1 target/lightning arc
Saving Throw: Special
This spell weaves a nimbus of colorful azure lightning about the caster's person. During the round in which the spell is cast, anyone who comes into contact with the caster discharges the spell into themselves, breaking the magic prematurely. If the spell is completed, it causes arcs of lightning to surge off of the caster’s body to surround him in a flickering and crawling nimbus of electricity. This nimbus of lightning is composed of one arc of lightning per level of the caster.
These lightning arcs can be used in any one of two ways on a round by round basis, as the caster can change the mode of use at the beginning of each round:
Each of these lightning arcs cause 1 point of damage per level of the caster, with those struck receiving a saving throw vs. spell for half damage. Furthermore, those struck must make a saving throw vs. breath weapon or suffer the temporary loss of 1 point of Dexterity for 1 full turn. Any being that is reduced to a Dexterity score of 0 or below is incapacitated, convulsing in the throes of electricity for the remaining time, until his Dexterity score once again reaches at least 1.
To cast nimbus of lightning, the caster must rubs wool over a sphere of crystal or glass, whereupon the resulting static electricity sparks the nimbus that will surround him.
Notes: Uncommon spell.
