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WizardLv. 3

Ranike Cloud

This spell creates a cloud of pungent smoke exactly like the smoke produced when the sap of the ranike tree is burned. This smoke limits visibility as does a blizzard or dense fog, 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 might 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 not move it back toward its caster. A strong wind breaks up the cloud within four rounds; stronger winds keep the cloud from forming in the first place. Very thick vegetation disperses the cloud in two rounds (the only place on Athas that qualifies as such terrain is the halflings' forest). The smoke does not sink as do many vapors do (for example, cloudkill); it 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 spellcasters from the Dark Sun setting; otherwise, very rare.

Sources: Dragon Magazine · Wizard's Spell Compendium

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