Shackles of the Spirit

Power 5

There are actually a number of similar rituals that go by this name, or some variation thereof. They all bind spirits into a place or object for purposes of communication. However, most spellbinders twist them to another use: coercion. After a spirit is bound, the magus makes it promise to provide a service before setting it free.

Most of these spells require the magus to draw a "summoning circle" in white chalk, powdered silver, or their own blood. If an object is required, the magus places it in the center of the circle. Finally, the true name of the desired spirit must be spoken out loud or drawn into the circle.

In rituals requiring an object, a figurine or idol is most often used. The spirit animates this effigy and speaks through it. In some cases, the caster may sit inside the circle and bind the spirit into their own body, allowing telepathic communication.

These spells are broken when the object is removed from the circle or the circle itself is disturbed.

Overpower Effects

• The effigy grows to accommodate the spirit, shifting towards the spirit's preferred form. This may be dangerous to the spellbinder.
• The spirit remains bound into the effigy even after the spell is broken.
• The binding is intensely painful to the spirit. This makes communication difficult, if not impossible, and generally pisses the spirit off.

Underpower Effects

• The magical boundary created by the summoning circle is not stable, allowing the spirit to reach outside the circle at random intervals.
• The spirit is bound, but cannot speak through the effigy. The spellbinder may think the spell didn't work, but the spirit will still be quite angry when released.