SureAI

I take it that the ward spell is only active as long as you are casting it; correct? In other words it has no lasting effect.

Hello willderyes
There are protection spells that work only as long as you use them (mana per second)
and there are spells that work over time (with indication of the casting time).
See also in the wiki under Mentalism and Light Magic.
Permanent protection is possible only over enchanted equipment. ( or possibly with a perk?)