Barkskin (spell)

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Barkskin is a spell that envelops the recipient's form in the embrace of living tree bark, offering protection against attacks, the elements and the perils of dehydration. Some races or creatures view barkskin, with it's intricate patterns and hues, to be a considerable improvement upon a humanoid's natural appearance.

Barkskin
Range touch
Duration 5 rounds per level
Area of Effect 1 creature
Casting Time 1 round
Saving Throw none
Level druid (2nd)

Barkskin enhances the recipient's armour class by 2 points lowering the likelihood of sustaining hits during combat. Additionally, owing to the robust and woody nature of the bark's construction, the spell bestows a formidable +2 bonus to saving throws where physical damage is caused, such as with many spells, breath weapon, lightning bolt and so on.

Protection against Elements

Barkskin offers a remarkable natural insulation against extreme weather conditions. While protected, the recipient causes unpleasant weather extremes to become more bearable, shifting temperature grades two steps closer to "pleasant conditions."

For example, if faced with "frosty" weather it would feel more like a "brisk" day, as if the character were enveloped in a warm cloak that covered ever part. Similarly, "sweltering" conditions are to a more balmy and manageable state.

Dehydration

Barkskin also provides the recipient with the invaluable benefit of conserving bodily fluids. The rate of fluid loss through sweat is reduced to just half the normal speed. While this might seem like a minor advantage in the short term, it can make all the difference when a character is forced to undertake a critical action under the scorching sun, potentially tipping the balance between survival and perilous dehydration.


See also,
Armour (spell)
Faerie Fire (spell)
Phantom Armour (spell)