The Echoing Hand cantrip allows the caster to subtly communicate with another individual within a one-mile range. To cast the spell, the caster must briefly hold the intended recipient's hand. As they do so, a unique runic symbol, infused with the caster's magic, materializes on the back of the recipient's hand. A person can hold a limited number of these symbols (typically 2-4), each representing a connection with a different caster. These symbols are utterly distinctive and cannot be forged; anyone familiar with the spell immediately recognizes when faced with a new caster's symbol.
Casting
To activate the connection, the caster focuses on the specific symbol and 'pulls' an invisible mental thread. The recipient instantly hears the caster's voice within their mind like a gentle whisper. The voice carries a mental nudge and a sense of the caster's general location, but will not forcefully rouse a sleeping individual. Once used, the runic symbol remains on the recipient's hand but can be washed away. It offers some magical resistance to removal, weakening over time.
Material Components
The caster uses a small amount of ink from their vial during each casting of Echoing Hand. The finely powdered quartz within the ink remains suspended and reusable over multiple castings; however, the ink supply will eventually be depleted, signifying a limit to how many times the spell can be cast with that particular vial.
Dispelling
- Automatic
- The runic symbol and the connection it represents vanish immediately after a single use.
- Willful Cancellation
- The caster can break the connection at will, causing the symbol to disappear.
- Washing
- The recipient can remove the symbol with soap, water, and some light scrubbing.
- Dispel Magic
- A dispel magic spell can also prematurely remove the rune.
Purpose / Usage
The Echoing Hand spell offers a range of applications, both practical and laden with social intrigue. Primarily, it facilitates discreet communication, allowing courtiers, diplomats, and others to send messages or summons without disrupting the flow of events. This can also be used for secret coordination of actions by spies or allies. Within a court setting, the spell reinforces notions of etiquette, providing a polite alternative to loud announcements. However, the potential for secret communication through Echoing Hand also opens avenues for the spread of rumors, clandestine affairs, and the manipulation of information. The very symbols themselves can become status markers, indicating one's connections and importance. Despite its utility, Echoing Hand remains primarily a tool for short-range and often one-way communication, making it a supplement rather than a replacement for other forms of messaging.