Arcane Defenders draw power from the essence of protecting, channeling their magical abilities into defensive spells and protective wards. They are the guardians of mystical boundaries, standing firm against the forces that seek to breach them.

Warding Mastery

When you choose this subclass at 2nd level, you gain proficiency in the Arcana skill. Additionally, you learn the Mage Armor spell, which doesn't count against your number of spells known. This spell is always prepared, and you can cast it without expending a spell slot.

Guardian's Presence

At 6th level, you radiate a protective aura. Friendly creatures within 10 feet of you gain a bonus to their AC equal to your Intelligence modifier (minimum of +1) as long as you are conscious. This effect doesn't stack with other effects that increase a creature's AC.

Arcane Shield

Starting at 10th level, you can use your reaction to create an arcane shield in front of you or a creature you can see within 30 feet. The target gains temporary hit points equal to your wizard level + your Intelligence modifier.

Astral Bastion

At 14th level, you can erect a powerful barrier of magic. As an action, you create an Astral Bastion in a 20-foot radius sphere centered on a point you can see within 60 feet. The bastion lasts for 1 minute, and friendly creatures within the sphere have half cover.

Additionally, any creature that starts its turn within the sphere gains temporary hit points equal to your Intelligence modifier.

Once you use this feature, you can't use it again until you finish a long rest.