Difference between revisions of "Ventriloquism (spell)"

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'''Ventriloquism''' is a spell that allows the caster to create the [[Illusion|illusion]] that their voice is originating from a selected location within the spell's range, as chosen by the practitioner.  The projected voice is intelligible, distinctly different from the caster's own, and can be produced without the need for the caster's direct physical involvement or maintained [[Spellcasting|concentration]].
  
 
{{Spelltable
 
{{Spelltable
 
| name = Ventriloquism
 
| name = Ventriloquism
| range = 10 ft. per level
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| range = 10 ft. per [[Experience Level|level]]
| duration = 4 rounds + 1 round per level
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| duration = 4 [[Combat Round|rounds]] + 1 per level
| area of effect = 1 location
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| area of effect = 1 false source
 
| casting time = 1 round
 
| casting time = 1 round
 
| save = none
 
| save = none
| level = [[Bard 1st Level Spells|bard (1st)]]; [[Illusionist 2nd Level Spells|illusionist (2nd)]]; [[Mage 1st Level Spells|mage (1st)]]
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| level = [[Bard 1st Level Spells|bard (1st)]]; [[Illusionist 2nd Level Spells|illusionist (2nd)]];<br>[[Mage 1st Level Spells|mage (1st)]]
 
}}
 
}}
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__TOC__
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In effect, the caster envisions the spoken words and the sound emerges at a rate of approximately 15 words per round.  During this time, the caster is free to take other actions while the projected voice continues to speak.
  
Enables the caster to make it seem as though his or her voice is emanating from a chosen location, within the spell’s range. The source may be animate or inanimate. The spell does not allow the caster to duplicate the sound of another person, but it is possible, if only a few words are spoken ~ and the subject’s lips are not visible, for the ventriloquist to make it seem as though a silent person has said something. At least, the person will be the direction from which the sound is coming.
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Ventriloquism can be revealed through spells such as [[Penetrate Disguise (spell)|penetrate disguise]], [[Detect Illusion (spell)|detect illusion]] or [[True Seeing (spell)|true seeing]], each of which indicates the voice is disembodied and false.
  
The words spoken will be clear and distinct; they will generally be more natural and believable than the tone or quality of performance ventriloquism.
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== Voice ==
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The timbre and quality of the voice possesses a slightly higher pitch than the caster's natural voice, adding to the illusion of distance. The quality of the voice is marked by a moderate hollow resonance, creating a distinct auditory effect.  While the caster cannot alter these characteristics, the authenticity of the projected voice is such that it convincingly appears as a genuine spoken voice, minimizing the likelihood of it being questioned by those who hear it.
  
Through the use of ventriloquism, a caster can increase the range of spells whose casting relies on a spoken component, such as [[Animal Friendship (spell)|animal friendship]], [[Fascinate (spell)|fascinate]], [[Hypnotism (spell)|hypnotism]], [[Suggestion (spell)|suggestion]] and the like.
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== Distraction ==
<br>
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Ventriloquism's ability to create a distraction relies on the player's strategic use. By carefully selecting circumstances, such as making the voice seem to come from an unseen person just behind a door or much closer to the listener than the actual character, the character can significantly enhance their chances of diverting the listener's attention or achieving [[Surprise (combat)|surprise]].
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The dungeon master must exercise discretion in determining how practical the player's words and plans are in this context. This involves considering the believability and feasibility of the chosen scenario, as well as assessing the impact it may have on the surrounding environment and the individuals within it.
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== Interaction with other Spells ==
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While a caster can use the false voice when casting a spell, ventriloquism cannot be used to displace another spell's range when doing so.  For example, if the range were "touch," the caster would yet need to effect the touch to give the spell to another recipient.  Nonetheless, orders to magical servants could be delivered through ventriloquism, with other like benefits being explored by the caster.
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See [[Find Familiar (spell)]]
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[[Category: Bardic Spells]][[Category: Illusionary Spells]][[Category: Magical Spells]][[Category: Reviewed]]

Latest revision as of 21:24, 13 November 2023

Ventriloquism (spell).jpg

Ventriloquism is a spell that allows the caster to create the illusion that their voice is originating from a selected location within the spell's range, as chosen by the practitioner. The projected voice is intelligible, distinctly different from the caster's own, and can be produced without the need for the caster's direct physical involvement or maintained concentration.

Ventriloquism
Range 10 ft. per level
Duration 4 rounds + 1 per level
Area of Effect 1 false source
Casting Time 1 round
Saving Throw none
Level bard (1st); illusionist (2nd);
mage (1st)

In effect, the caster envisions the spoken words and the sound emerges at a rate of approximately 15 words per round. During this time, the caster is free to take other actions while the projected voice continues to speak.

Ventriloquism can be revealed through spells such as penetrate disguise, detect illusion or true seeing, each of which indicates the voice is disembodied and false.

Voice

The timbre and quality of the voice possesses a slightly higher pitch than the caster's natural voice, adding to the illusion of distance. The quality of the voice is marked by a moderate hollow resonance, creating a distinct auditory effect. While the caster cannot alter these characteristics, the authenticity of the projected voice is such that it convincingly appears as a genuine spoken voice, minimizing the likelihood of it being questioned by those who hear it.

Distraction

Ventriloquism's ability to create a distraction relies on the player's strategic use. By carefully selecting circumstances, such as making the voice seem to come from an unseen person just behind a door or much closer to the listener than the actual character, the character can significantly enhance their chances of diverting the listener's attention or achieving surprise.

The dungeon master must exercise discretion in determining how practical the player's words and plans are in this context. This involves considering the believability and feasibility of the chosen scenario, as well as assessing the impact it may have on the surrounding environment and the individuals within it.

Interaction with other Spells

While a caster can use the false voice when casting a spell, ventriloquism cannot be used to displace another spell's range when doing so. For example, if the range were "touch," the caster would yet need to effect the touch to give the spell to another recipient. Nonetheless, orders to magical servants could be delivered through ventriloquism, with other like benefits being explored by the caster.


See Find Familiar (spell)