Spell Effect. Ranged weapons are a dangerous threat to mages as they strike from a distance and are not always seen until it’s too late. The Insubstantial Shield spell uses the force of wind to make the air around the caster to whirl in a circular motion, like a small whirlwind about twice the caster’s height. The movement speed is usually good enough to deflect ranged weapons from long distances; higher-level mages will even be able to deflect shots from very short distances. However this shield cannot stop a melee fighter from reaching the mage, but it sure makes it more difficult.

Image description. The insubstantial shield spell being cast in order to fend off long range attacks. Illustrations from the game Mystical Empire™, used with permission. Picture by Faugar.

As the air whirls in a circular motion surrounding the mage the caster may also not see through his own shield. However, the mage has to stay concentrated to keep the air in motion, and can only move only at a slow pace; he cannot fight or cast other spells. That's why this spell usually is used to flee from ranged fire and if there are no melee fighters nearby or to get some extra time for drinking healing potions before joining combat again.

The spell lasts as long as the caster can keep the air in motion; if the caster grows too tired or loses the concentration the air around him will immediately fall back to its normal behavior.

Casting Procedure. The mage has to utter the words while throwing an eagle feather into the air.

Magical Formula. Eráia’avásh (Styrásh: "Eráia’avásh"), literally translated: "Flow Wind!".

Target. This spell can only be cast on the caster.

Reagents. Eagle feathers.

Magical School. Elemental Magic, Wind School.

Spell Class. Movement Magic.

Range. None. This spell is cast on the caster and does not have any range.

Casting Time. 10 seconds.

Duration. The spell lasts as long as the caster can manage to keep it lasting. The speed of the moving air (and thus the deflecting capability) is dependend upon the level of the caster.

Counter Measures/Enhancing Measures. This spell makes the mage safe form ranged attacks; however melee attacks may break through the shield and hit the mage. Also anything that breaks the caster’s concentration will stop this spell.