Backlash

(See also: Backlash (Drow))

Also known as the preserver's scourge, this spell makes the ground dangerous to defilers. There are two versions of the spell; the one that takes effect is dependent upon what a defiler tries to do with the protected ground. Many preservers cast this spell on particularly fertile areas of growth. The spell remains in effect until the land is tapped by a defiler. Alternatively, when engaged in battle, preservers may cast this spell on any type of land nearby to prevent defilers from pulling energy from the plants there. It doesn't matter when the spell is cast so long as it is in place before the defiler attempts to use the land.

Should a defiler try to tap into land that is protected by a backlash spell when he is memorizing his spells, he receives 1d6 points of damage for each level of the caster of the spell. The land literally lashes back at him before giving up its life energy. If the defiler prefers to use the method whereby he pulls energy at the time he casts a spell, the land lashes back in a manner commensurate with the spell he tried to cast, doing 1d6 points of damage for each level of the defiler's intended spell. Thus, if the defiler were preparing to cast a 3rd-level spell, backlash would inflict 3d6 damage on him. The defiler receives a saving throw vs. spell for half damage.

Once it has inflicted damage, the ground returns to normal. Another spell must be cast upon it for it to strike back at a defiler again. Only one backlash spell can be cast on any given plot of ground. Casting a second one on already protected land wastes the spell. The spell has no affect on preservers who use the land. The material component is a thorn.