Ethereal Chains of Binding

Ethereal Chains of Binding

3rd-level conjuration
Casting Time: 1 action
Range: 60 feet
Components: V, S, M (a broken chain link and a wisp of smoke)
Duration: Concentration, up to 1 minute


Ethereal Chains of Binding is a conjuration spell that summons chains from the astral plane, materializing them in the physical world to bind and restrain targets. This spell is not merely a method of physical restraint; it is a manifestation of the binding forces of the spirit realm, intertwining the ethereal with the tangible to create chains that are as much a psychological shackle as they are a physical one.


As the caster completes the spell, the broken chain link and wisp of smoke in their hands spiral upwards, forming a vortex of otherworldly energy. From this vortex, spectral chains emerge, glowing with an eerie, ghostly light. These chains extend towards the target with a purpose, seeking to bind not just their body but their essence as well.


Astral Restraint: The ethereal chains wrap around the target, binding their limbs and restricting their movements with a strength that defies physical norms. The chains are cold to the touch and seem to resonate with a haunting energy, as if echoing the distant whispers of the astral plane.


Mechanic: The target must make a Strength or Dexterity saving throw, their choice. On a failed save, they are restrained by the ethereal chains. While restrained, their speed becomes 0, and they suffer disadvantage on Dexterity saving throws, and attack rolls against them have advantage. The chains are resistant to physical damage and require magical means to be broken or dispelled.


Psychic Echo: The chains not only restrain the body but also impose a weight on the mind. A target bound by the chains experiences a sense of deep, existential dread, as if their very soul is being constricted. This effect imposes disadvantage on the target's Wisdom saving throws and concentration checks.


At Higher Levels: When you cast this spell using a spell slot of 4th level or higher, the duration increases by 1 minute, and the spell can target one additional creature for each slot level above 3rd, provided the creatures are within 30 feet of each other.


Classes: Wizard, Warlock, Sorcerer
Source: Custom Creation


Ethereal Chains of Binding is more than a spell; it is a bridge between worlds, a connection to the astral plane's mysterious and binding energies. This spell symbolizes the power to constrain and control, not just physically but on a deeper, more existential level. It offers a potent means of restraint, intertwining the caster's will with the elusive energies of the spirit realm to create chains that are as effective in binding spirits as they are in binding flesh.