The cast time on Stoneskin II

[Destous]

Here's where I see myself out.

Maybe brush up on what it means for something to be optional. In terms for optimizing for pull, stoneskin and protect, and anything else is on equal footing in that you should use them. You're painting this picture where progression groups where say "you know what, just skip the stoneskin"; that doesn't happen. You're painting this picture because your argument is incredibly disingenuous because you've gone off on a massive tangent that has nothing to do with the original point I made.

SSII is an inherently out of combat only skill. The cast time and MP cost are purely a formality as there is no need for the skill to have an opportunity cost of time and MP for the sake of balance during encounters. So get off your high horse.