Bleeding Edge (3.5e Campaign Setting)/Magic/Ritual of Binding

Ritual of Binding

The ritual of binding is a famous ritual usually seen in legends. The classic myth of a group of sages sealing away a great evil is usually an example of this ritual in action. It duplicates the effect of binding, and more specifically the Hedged Prison with the following exceptions. It can only be cast on a willing or helpless target. There is no save. And the creature is specifically imbued into an object no larger than Huge size. Release conditions must be given; the conditions can be difficult but not impossible. The freedom spell can also release the target.

The item which the creature is bound to radiates strong abjuration and has a certain presence about it. If the item is ever broken, the creature is released. Its said that while this effect is powerful, equally powerful creatures eventually erode away at the seal. Very old prisons may be surrounded by obvious corrupting effects and the bound creature may be able to communicate telepathically on touch or when nearby.

The ritual is associated with no particular deity, believed to have been the creation of a powerful ancient spellcaster. Prisons which have weakened sometime begin emitting anomalous effects, and the creature within may become aware and able to speak on contact with the binding item or nearby.

Effective Spell Level: 7th (Abjuration)
Casting Time: 1 hour
Pre-Requisites: There must be a number of participates whose total HD equals or exceeds twice the target's HD, 250 gp per HD of the creature in magical chains.