- See also Grimwald's Graymantle (Lvl 5).
The material component of this spell is a small skull or bone. On the turn of casting, the skull is imbued with a silvery-gray radiance. The skull or bone can then (in the next round) be touched to an opponent or thrown to the limit of the spell's range against a target. In cases of touching the skull to an opponent, the attack is +2 to hit. Otherwise the chances of hitting are normal, according to the mage's normal THAC0.
Should the gray-wrapped skull or bone miss the target or the target make a saving throw vs. spell (at -2 for those administered by touch) the graymantle fades and the spell has no effect.
If the skull or bone hits the target, the gray radiance is transferred from the skull to the target, covering him entirely. For the duration of the spell, the target cannot regain hit points by any means. Natural regeneration (such as that of trolls) is stopped as are the effects of a ring of regeneration, potion of healing, or staff of curing. Spells that return lost hit points (cure light wounds, heal) will not work on that individual. Other necromantic spells will function normally, including those that cure other afflictions (disease, blindness) and those that remove hit points (cause light wounds) are unaffected by the spell.
Upon the expiration of the spell, automatic healing abilities and items such as the ring of regeneration or the troll's regenerative ability are restored and will regenerate hit points normally. Any healing attempted during the period is lost.
The material component of this spell is the skull or bone used.