Melf's Arrow (spell)
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Melf's Arrow is a spell that conjures a magical projectile, which strikes a chosen enemy for 4-13 damage (3d4+1). To launch the arrow, the caster must expend 1 action point (AP) to aim and roll a d20 to hit. The spell always requires a roll of 10 or higher to hit, regardless of the target's armour class or defences. The caster gains a +1 bonus to hit when using this spell.
| Range | 60 ft. |
| Duration | until contact |
| Area of Effect | 1 arrow; see text |
| Casting Time | 1 round |
| Saving Throw | none |
| Level | mage (2nd) |
Contents
If the attack misses, the arrow does not vanish but instead remains in play, circling back to make another attempt in the next round. The caster may choose a new target or continue attacking the same one. As long as the caster continues to spend AP, the arrow will persist indefinitely until it successfully strikes. However, Melf's Arrow can be neutralised if an opponent moves to a location beyond its reach or if it is dispelled with magical means. If no target is visible at the start of a round, the arrow dissipates harmlessly.
At 7th level, the caster gains a second arrow, which can be fired at the same time as the first. If the caster maintains concentration, the arrows may be fired one at a time rather than simultaneously. A third arrow is gained at 11th and a fourth at 15th level. No additional arrows are gained beyond this.
Origin
Melf Ithilvandil, also Moonstaff, was an Elvish archmage of immense renown, active during the final centuries of the Old Ulthua. He is believed to have perished at the Battle of Silver Lake in 501 BCE, where, according to legend, he held off an entire host single-handedly before vanishing in a cascade of arcane fire. His writings, etched in silver upon enchanted elven vellum, remained undeciphered for nearly a thousand years, resisting all attempts at translation through both mundane and magical means. It was not until Simon Magus, through painstaking study and ritual insight, unlocked portions of Melf's spellcraft that his works became accessible to later generations of mages. Melf's Arrow was one of the first to be interpreted, however.
