Gust of Wind (spell)
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Gust of Wind is a spell that calls forth a sudden, forceful blast of air, originating from the caster and surging outward in the direction faced. The effect is immediate, creating a strong, rushing current that disrupts the environment and hinders movement. Though short-lived, the spell's strength is sufficient to extinguish all flames smaller than a roaring bonfire, including torches, candles, lanterns and open cooking fires. Sparks and embers are scattered, while flames flicker violently before being snuffed out entirely.
| Range | self |
| Duration | 1 round |
| Area of Effect | 120 degree arc, 10 ft. per level |
| Casting Time | 2 rounds |
| Saving Throw | none |
| Level | mage (3rd) |
Contents
Once discharged, the gust immediately dissipates, leaving behind no lingering effect. The actual duration, lasting one full round, is 12 seconds in real time.
The wind's force affects creatures and objects according to their weight and stability. Flying creatures are immediately forced back, unable to advance against the current. Depending on their size and speed, they may be thrown anywhere from 10 to 60 feet off course, struggling against the sudden push of air. Creatures or objects weighing less than 50 pounds are thrown 10 feet back, while those between 51 and 100 pounds are forced back 5 feet. Heavier creatures, while not moved by the wind, find themselves momentarily unable to advance, their movement halted for a full round as they brace against the spell's force.
The gust carries dust, loose debris and lightweight objects caught within its path, momentarily obscuring visibility as particles whip through the air. Though brief, this disruption can startle animals, rattle unsecured doors or shutters, and scatter papers or lightweight items that are not held fast. In enclosed spaces, the wind may rebound off walls and surfaces, creating a brief, swirling turbulence before dissipating. The spell does not deal direct damage but is a potent tool for breaking formations, clearing obstacles and disrupting both creatures and flames alike.
Bringing the Spell into Play
The Gust of Wind spell remains one of the most straightforward yet versatile effects within a caster's arsenal. Though it does not deal direct damage, its power lies in momentary control over the battlefield, forcing movement, snuffing out flames and disrupting flight. Unlike more dramatic storm-based magics, Gust of Wind is quick, forceful and singular, a brief but undeniable exertion of magical will over the air.
Its utility in exploration, combat and survival cannot be understated — whether clearing away choking fumes, preventing a flying creature from closing in or simply extinguishing dangerous flames in an enclosed space. The spell exemplifies a practical application of elemental power, shaping nature in a sharp, focused burst rather than as an ongoing force. It is not a spell of control — but a spell of immediate disruption, its power felt in the sudden shock of air and the momentary shift in balance it forces upon the world.
See also,
