Scorching Ray

Alright, my young mage you have learned well and have taken your first steps into true direct-attack magic, whether through Scorching Ray, Helios Ray, or any of their kin. As you grow stronger and learn to channel your mana with greater precision, you will be able to unleash more shots in rapid succession. This allows you to focus multiple rays on a single target or, with sufficient control, strike several targets in one casting.
This spell is an excellent tool for adventurers, for personal defense, and for any work that requires dealing with monsters, beasts, or other unsavory threats. It is a short-range powerhouse, and like all such tools, it must be used wisely.
So remember this, my young mage: this spell does not strike by accident. It is a direct and deliberate attack. Whatever you aim at, you are responsible for fully and without excuse.

Effect

You unleash a searing beam of fire at your enemies. You may fire one ray, plus one additional ray for every four caster levels beyond 3rd, to a maximum of three rays at 11th level.
Each ray requires a ranged touch attack to hit and deals 4d6 points of fire damage on a successful hit. The rays may be fired at the same target or at different targets, but all targets must be within 30 feet of one another, and all rays are fired simultaneously.

Natural Magic

If you select this spell as one of your natural magics, its range increases by 10 feet. In addition, you may fire an extra beam at a second target, provided that target is within 40 feet of the original target.

Saving Throw: none
Spell Resistance: yes

Gestures & Ritual

There are two common gestures used for this spell. The first is to extend your index finger with your thumb raised; as you snap your thumb downward, pull your hand back sharply to release the energy.
The second gesture involves drawing the energy inward with a sweeping motion of your hand, then thrusting it forward with your fingers extended and your palm facing the target.

Related School

School of Destruction/Evocation

Related Element

All Elements

Effect Duration

Instantaneous

Effect Casting Time

1 standard action

Range

Close (25 ft. + 5 ft./2 levels)

Level

LV2