Ranike Cloud
- SchoolEvocation
- SpherePlant
- ComponentsV, S, M
- Range10 yds.
- AreaCloud, 40 x 20 x 20 ft.
- Casting time3
- Duration1 rd./level
- SaveNone
This spell creates a cloud of pungent smoke exactly like that produced when the sap of the ranike tree is burned. This smoke limits visibility as a blizzard or dense fog does, but its main asset is its ability to repel all insects and insect like creatures, including thri-kreen, that come in contact with it. Once those creatures are engulfed in the cloud, they immediately flee the area in the manner of undead turned by a cleric. Intelligent insects like the thri-kreen may run before they are touched, once they see what's coming.
The cloud moves away from the caster at a speed of 10 feet per round, rolling along the surface of the ground. A moderate breeze can alter the cloud's course, but it won't move back toward its caster. A strong wind breaks it up within four rounds, and stronger winds keep the cloud from forming in the first place. Very thick vegetation disperses the cloud in two rounds, but the only place on Athas that qualifies as such terrain is the halflings' forest. The smoke does not sink as many vapors do (like a cloudkill spell); it also cannot penetrate liquids or be cast underwater – not a great concern on Athas.
The material component is a chunk of wood from the ranike tree.
Notes: Common for priests from the Dark Sun setting.
Sources: Dragon Magazine · Priest's Spell Compendium