Shadowgloom
(Evocation)
(Shadow)
Level: 1
Range: 40 yds. + 10 yds./level
Components: V
Duration: 2 rds.
Casting Time: 1
Area of Effect: Special
Saving Throw: None
This spell can be cast in one of two forms. Its most popular usage creates a writhing, swirling, irregular cloud of translucent gloom whose thickness and darkness continually vary. The cloud can be no larger in total volume or extent than a 20'-diameter sphere, is stationary, and can affect vision (and therefore aimed or missile attacks, which suffer a -2 penalty to hit) into it. Specifically, things within a shadowgloom are affected as follows for all creatures except the caster: the features of any one creature can be disguised, the nature of any one small hand-held object (such as a key) concealed, and the outlines of any single marking (arrow, sign, inscription, or heraldic device) obscured. This spell is often used to protect the caster against archery, or to conceal precisely where a secret entrance is located and how it is accessed.
Alternatively, a shadowgloom spell can be used to create a shadow of a particular shape (such as bat-winged, human, or of any object the size of a troll or smaller), that rushes away from the caster in a particular direction. The moving shadow can be made to turn or change direction once (for example, to pass through a doorway), but otherwise merely charges onward to the limits of spell range, where it fades away. This spell effect is commonly used to deceive foes into thinking a message, concealed creature, or spell effect is fleeing, or some sort of attack is being launched at them. It can, of course, by prearrangement with an observing creature, be used to convey specific meaning by its mere appearance, and by its specific shape.
Either form of shadowgloom is halted by solid barriers but slips past all obstacles around or through which there is an opening.
Notes: Taken from the spellbooks of Nurvureem, the Drow Dragon. Known to Yazston DeVir of the FORGOTTEN REALMS setting.
