Requesting advice / feedback on cantrip design: "Delay Decay"


Homebrew and House Rules


I've started playing pathfinder for the first time with a group of veteran pathfinder players. The GM has tasked me to create a cantrip (that I requested) related to the current campaign. The idea is based of the Preserve Organ cantrip (BVD101) however that spell is definitely not directly transferable as it replaces the function of a higher spell (Gentle Repose). The group is a stickler for maintaining pathfinder game concepts and rule descriptions. This is where i need the advice of other pathfinder veterans; is the spell below follow spell design conventions? is it overpowered, underpowered, or overlaps with another spell? where do I need more detail, or where is the description too vague?

More importantly would you use this spell? why or why not? Any advice greatly appreciated.

Delay Decay (Researched Spell)
Reference Book of Vile Darkness, Page 101
School Transmutation Level Clr 0, Drd 0, Sor/Wiz 0
Components V, S
Casting Time 1 Standard Action
Range Object touched
Target one object of up to 1 lb./level
Duration 10 min./level; see text
Saving Throw Fortitude negates (harmless, object) Spell Resistance Yes (harmless, object)
The caster temporarily preserves a single nonmagical object of organic or simple material delaying it from decay, rot, and any deterioration resulting from exposure over time. If the object was from a living creature it preserves the organ or flesh and suspends any metabolic function. A single natural compound becomes stable and inert; simple objects made from natural materials are preserved in near stasis, yet retain its physical properties. Delay decay automatically fails if cast on complex manmade materials or objects with magical effects or properties. Successive casting of delay decay 10 minutes prior to the previous effect ending extend the spells duration; to a maximum of duration of 24 hours for all castings. Delay Decay maintains the temperature and condition of the object at the time it was cast; however, if the object is exposed to damage, harmful elements, strong agitation, or sudden temperature changes the spell effect ends. Once the spell effect ends, by normal duration or exposure, the object immediately reverts to a state of decay appropriate to the duration preservation was in effect, as if the spell was never cast.

Shadow Lodge

I would see some use to this. I'm not the best for the specifics on whether this follows ALL the rules and formats, but I didn't see anything wrong there.

The only thing that stood out to me was the constant reference to simple and complex materials. This is confusing and should be changed. Personally, I think something along the lines as organic and non-organic. This spell can stop food from spoiling and bodies from rotting, but not metal from rusting.

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