Spill (cantrip)

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Spill (cantrip).jpg

Spill is a cantrip that causes an unfixed container to tip over and scatter its contents, regardless of whether its lid is firmly closed or ajar. The magic subtly disrupts the balance of the object, sending it tumbling in a realistic, natural motion, making it difficult for onlookers to immediately suspect magical interference.

Spill
Range 20 ft.
Duration permanent
Area of Effect 1 container; see text
Casting Time 2 action points
Saving Throw none
Level cantrip

The extent of the spill depends on the size and shape of the container, but as a general rule, the spread of the spilled contents is typically half again as tall and wide as the container itself. A small jug of water may create a puddle extending well beyond its original size, while a knocked-over barrel could spread its contents across a considerable portion of the floor.

This cantrip is often used for mischief, disruption or distraction, whether by startling individuals with a sudden mess, spoiling food and drink or ruining delicate materials. A well-placed spill could send ink across important documents, oil across a stone floor or grain tumbling from a merchant's sack, creating immediate inconvenience and chaos.

Limitations

The Spill cantrip lacks the power to overturn vehicles, boats or other large, weighty objects, but it can topple a shelf or similar structure so long as it weighs no more than 25 lbs. per level of the caster. This limitation makes heavier barrels of ale or wine difficult to tip at lower levels, especially since such containers are often fastened, braced or stacked for stability.

However, lighter objects — such as baskets, trays, dishes, cups, pots, sacks, buckets, open trunks and small boxes — can easily be spilled, provided their lids are not secured shut. The cantrip is especially effective for causing sudden disruption, whether by toppling a merchant's basket, sending a pot of ink tumbling onto important documents or scattering food and drink across the floor.

In some cases, the spell can dislodge objects from a height, such as knocking a goblet or bottle off a table, allowing for more creative use in situations where an unnoticed spill could cause inconvenience or chaos. However, certain objects may be sturdy enough to resist being knocked over; these must save vs. a normal blow if the situation warrants it, determining whether they remain in place or succumb to the subtle force of the spell.


See also,
Magical Cantrip Tables
Reversed Cantrips