Death Mark
- SchoolNecromancy
- ComponentsV, S, M
- Range30 yards
- AreaOne creature
- Casting time3
- Duration3 rounds + 1 round/level
- SaveNeg.
This spell marks a target for death. When cast, it creates a gray pall to the skin, which feels clammy and rubbery, as if the victim were in shock. Unless the target of the spell successfully saves vs. death magic, he feels hopeless and ill. The recipient is at a -2 penalty to all attack, damage, and saving throw rolls. The victim's Armor Class becomes wholly dependent on any armor he is wearing, as all Dexterity bonuses are lost. The target of a death mark spell literally feels as if he has one foot in the grave.
The feeling of illness and hopelessness leaves after a few rounds, but the skin remains gray and clammy for an additional hour. The creature might be mistaken for some kind of undead during this time. The material component for this spell is a small shard of obsidian.
Sources: Defilers and Preservers: Wizards of Athas