New Spell: Claws from the Grave

Hiding behind the blackberry bushes, the party kept low and as quiet as they could. Beyond, the troop of hobgoblins marched along the road. “How many?” Rathgar asked.

Nimble considered a moment. “Maybe a hundred.” he whispered in reply.

A low growl, followed by some goblinoid speech, and then a yell from beyond the bushes. The booted feet of the hobgoblins changed from the regular marching pace, and could be heard moving away from the brambles quickly.

“Frell….” Allianora muttered, gripping her shield and getting ready to spring up. There was a brief lull and then another goblinoid yell. Arrows cut through the bushes, blindly shot. Leaves, berries, and thorns exploded out, and blessedly, every shot missed.

Nimble put his finger to his mouth and everyone held still. Booted feet began approaching.

“We’ve got to move” Feris hissed.

Everyone nodded, and rose up to a crouch, and stated to hussle away, Another hobgoblin voice called out in high draconic, and bony claws reached up grasping at the party’s legs. Feris quickly dispelled the claws, but it was enough of a delay that the first of the scouts had spotted them. Rathgar threw an ax at one, splitting his skull, while Allianora wove a glittering shield around Nimble. Feris threw a fireball at the thick blackberry bushes. The blaze quickly caught, and covered their escape.



2nd Level Magic-User Spell
Claws from the Grave
Range: 60’
Duration: 1 round/level
Effect: 30’ area becomes difficult terrain

When cast, a 30’ diameter area centered on any spot the wizard can see within 60’ erupts with skeletal hands the will attempt to grasp anyone within reach. Anyone starting their turn in the area of effect, or attempting to move through it must make a saving throw vs. paralysis or have their movement reduced to 0. Anyone who fails the first save must make a second, or fall prone and be grasped by more hands. Anyone prone must make a strength check to stand up.