Chrono-Mirage Cascade is a spell that embodies the chaotic and whimsical nature of Mercury, The Maniacal. When cast, this spell conjures a series of overlapping, multidimensional illusions that distort both time and space within the targeted area.
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Illusory Terrain: The spell alters the appearance of the terrain within a 30-foot radius, making it seem as though the area is part of a surreal dreamscape . This terrain is difficult to navigate, and enemies within the area must make a Wisdom saving throw at the start of each turn. On a failed save, they lose half their movement for that turn, as the distorted terrain confuses and impedes them.
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Temporal Echoes: The caster creates multiple illusory duplicates of themselves, which perform mock spellcasting and move around within the spell’s area. Enemies trying to target the caster with an attack or a spell must first succeed on an Intelligence saving throw to discern the real caster from the illusions. On a failed save, the attack or spell targets one of the illusions instead, having no effect. You roll 2d4 to determine the number of illusions created.
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Chrono-Displacement: Each round, at the start of their turn, any creature within the spell's area may suddenly find themselves momentarily displaced in time. They must roll a d6 to determine the effect:
1-2: The creature experiences a flashback, and they are stunned until the end of their turn.
3-4: The creature sees a glimpse of the future, gaining advantage on their next attack roll, saving throw, or skill check.
5-6: Time loops for them, allowing them to repeat their last action (without expending a spell slot or resource). -
Final Cascade: When the spell ends, the illusions shatter like glass, potentially disorienting all enemies within 10 feet. They must make a Constitution saving throw or be blinded for 1 minute. A blinded creature can repeat the saving throw at the end of each of its turns, ending the effect on itself on a success.
At Higher Levels: When you cast this spell using a spell slot of 9th level, each illusion created by Temporal Echoes has a 50% chance of becoming a simulacrum of yourself. Final Cascade also deals 3d10 psychic damage.
Designer’s Note: Chrono-Mirage Cascade is designed to encapsulate the essence of Mercury's chaotic and illusion-based magic, heavily influenced by his experience in Wonderland. It's a spell that not only creates confusion and misdirection but also toys with the concept of time, fitting for a wizard whose grasp on reality is as tenuous as Mercury's.
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