Symbols (general rules)
Alchemy, Symbol
Symbols are traced in the air or over doors, arches and chests rather than carved; they come as Symbols of Power (spell-like effects triggered by viewers) and Symbols of Warding (invisible barriers).
From the book
Symbols are magical inscriptions placed in the air, above archways, or on doors and chests. Unlike runes they need no solid surface to be carved into: the caster simply traces the symbol's outline with a hand, wand or staff, and it takes hold where drawn.
Symbols of Power release a particular spell-like effect when anyone other than their caster sees or meets them, and can double as wards. Symbols of Warding are defensive, acting as an unseen barrier that stops certain creatures or spells from entering. Neither kind reaches beyond a 20 ft. radius from the spot where it was inscribed.
A symbol cannot be carried or worn and stays exactly where it was made, unless it is built into a greater magic item. Its power never runs out. It can be removed by inscribing the right counter-symbol, or by casting a suitable counter-spell, which works 50% of the time per attempt. Spell casters can set Symbols of Power with the Symbol of Power spell.
At a glance
- Types
- Symbols of Power; Symbols of Warding
- Method
- Trace the outline by hand, wand or staff
- Range
- Never more than 20 ft. radius
- Duration
- Unlimited
- Portability
- Must stay where inscribed unless used in a greater magic item
- Dispelling
- Inscribe the appropriate counter-symbol, or cast a counter-spell (50% per attempt)
- Symbols of Power as wards
- May also be used as wards
- Related spell
- Symbol of Power (inscribes any one Symbol of Power; save as per the symbol)