Hypnotism (spell)
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Hypnotism is a spell that compels creatures who fail save vs. magic to perform one action, and one action only. That action cannot result in harm to affected creatures or cause them to harm their friends or allies. Only creatures with an intelligence of 5 or greater can be affected.
| Range | 30 ft. |
| Duration | 1 +1 round per level |
| Area of Effect | up to 6 creatures |
| Casting Time | 1 round |
| Saving Throw | negates |
| Level | illusionist 1st |
Contents
Those who fail their saving throw can be ordered to take a single action — cluck like a chicken, flee, ferry these things across the room, hold a sword, stand still, bind the caster's wounds, give over their weapons, throw their weapons into yon chasm, etcetera. This request does not need to be made immediately, or indeed at all. However, if hypnotised recipients are asked to do something aggressive towards themselves or a friend, the spell is immediately broken.
Before or after the action is taken, the affected creatures will stand around without purpose until the duration of the spell runs out. If recipients hear their names called out after performing a requested action, then again the spell is broken. As well, a hit that causes damage, such as by pummelling, also frees the hypnotised recipient.
Used in a chaotic setting where individuals may not immediately realise what has happened, the spell's effects may last for its full duration, allowing the caster and their companions to press an advantage. The inability to use hypnotism for overtly destructive purposes, however, means that it must be applied with subtlety, serving as a tool of control rather than a direct means of eliminating foes.
Disorientation
Following the breaking of the spell, or after the duration has run out, those affected must spend a full combat round gathering their thoughts and coming to terms with their situation, before they can act normally. This lingering daze can provide further opportunities. A hypnotised sentry may forget to raise an alarm, or an opponent who has just tossed away a weapon may then have to take another round to rearm themselves.
See also,
Charm
Helpless Defenders
