Arcane Ward

<p>When you cast an <strong>abjuration spell of 1st level or higher</strong>, you create a magical ward around yourself with hit points equal to <strong>twice your wizard level + your Intelligence modifier</strong>.</p> <p><strong>Ward Mechanics:</strong></p> <ul> <li>The ward has its own hit points separate from yours</li> <li>When you take damage, the ward takes the damage first</li> <li>If the damage exceeds the ward's remaining HP, you take the overflow</li> <li>The ward regains HP equal to <strong>twice the spell level</strong> each time you cast an abjuration spell</li> <li>The ward's maximum HP is twice your wizard level + INT modifier</li> </ul> <p><strong>Ward HP by Level (assuming +4 INT at low levels, +5 at higher):</strong></p> <table class="ref-table"> <tr><th>Wizard Level</th><th>Max Ward HP</th></tr> <tr><td>2nd</td><td>8 HP</td></tr> <tr><td>5th</td><td>14 HP</td></tr> <tr><td>10th</td><td>25 HP</td></tr> <tr><td>15th</td><td>35 HP</td></tr> <tr><td>20th</td><td>45 HP</td></tr> </table> <p><strong>Abjuration Spells to Charge Your Ward:</strong></p> <ul> <li><strong>Shield (1st):</strong> Restores 2 HP - good value for a reaction spell</li> <li><strong>Alarm (1st, Ritual):</strong> Cast as ritual before combat to pre-charge ward for free</li> <li><strong>Counterspell (3rd):</strong> Restores 6 HP while stopping enemy spells</li> <li><strong>Dispel Magic (3rd):</strong> Restores 6 HP with strong utility</li> <li><strong>Banishment (4th):</strong> Restores 8 HP, removes a threat</li> </ul> <p><strong>Pro Tips:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Ritual cast Alarm during short rests to fully recharge your ward</li> <li>The ward is essentially extra HP that regenerates - you're tankier than you look</li> <li>At higher levels, Projected Ward lets you protect allies too</li> </ul>