Agony
Agony
Agony is a level 5 Necromancy spell which functions as a single-target torment, cutting the HP of any one adjacent target in half. It cannot deal lethal damage, but it can very quickly soften up powerful, uninjured targets like hydras or giants to make them more manageable. Like torment, it is worthless against demons, plants, and the undead, and its damage can be reduced with negative energy resistance - being completely negated at rN+++. While it never misses, it can be resisted with high magic resistance, although it does receive a spell power multiplier of 5.
Strategy
While the damage output of this spell is considerable, the caster must be able to survive a few turns at close range to take full advantage of it. Don't skimp on the evasion, and prepare a safe line of retreat if things go sour. If you haven't branched into other magic schools, Borgnjor's Vile Clutch is a good choice for an escape tool and a finishing blow.
Monster Version
The monster version, Agony Range, can affect any target within the caster's LOS.
History
Prior to 0.25, this spell was identical to the monster version and had LOS range.
