Black Iron Blade

Rules

Performing the Ritual

Performing this ritual takes at least 2 minutes of roleplaying. This ritual targets a character or item which must be present throughout.

The ritual must include the use of an edged weapon or tool used to cut the target character or item..

Effects

This ritual breaks bonds in the same way as the create bond spell. The ritualist must touch the target item or character. The ritual severs any or all bonds connected to the target at the discretion of the casters.

Additional Targets

This ritual can affect additional targets. The magnitude increases by one for every additional target. All targets must be present throughout.

Description

This ritual allows a magician or coven to simultaneously sever large numbers of bonds. It is sometimes used to dissolve an oathbound band, or to remove several characters simultaneously. While it is moderately expensive, at the point where it is necessary to cut five or more bonds at the same time it begins to become more appealing.

The ritual can also prove effective at dissolving bonds that cannot easily be cut in the traditional way. Certain curses, such as Riddle Hides the Reward can be negated through the use of Black Iron Blade provided it is used at sufficient magnitude to overcome the power of the curse.

Common Elements

This ritual always involves a small cut or nick to the target, which is highly symbolic of the severing of the bond. Anything that cuts or unravels is also appropraite. Some ritualists tie a cord, ribbon or thread between the target and the item to be unbonded, and then ceremonially cut it at the climax of the spell. Others require the target to cast the item away, over their shoulder, or into a basin of water. Considering that any magician can perform create bond, mastery of this ritual is comparatively rare.

The rune Yoorn, especially when inscribed on shears, is a common element of this ritual.