D&D 5E Maximilian's Earthen Grasp - follow up save timing

[Blue]

Hi folks,

From the Elemental Evil Player's Companion, I have a question on the Maximilian's Earthen Grasp spell.

Free download from Wizards. Page 20: http://media.wizards.com/2015/downloads/dnd/EE_PlayersCompanion.pdf

When casting, it gets a save. There is also follow up saves, but it's not clear to me when it happens, and if's it's free or takes an action to do so.

Trying not to quote the entire spell for forum rules:

To break out, the restrained target can make a Strength check against your spell save DC. On a success, the target escapes and is no longer restrained by the hand.

This is the (entire) third paragraph, the initial save is in the first so it's not confused with that.

So ... when does this happen? Beginning of the target's action? End? Anytime they want during their turn but they have to do it (reading "can") so they can't if unconscious? Is it free to try or does it take an action to try to escape?

Plan is to clarify with my DM, but we're playing in an public setting and if there is guidance in the rules he generally sticks to that.

 

[Kalshane]

Generally spells/conditions that involve you physically attempting to break free require an action, so I would assume that was the intent here. Otherwise, spells usually call for a save at the end of the target's turn.

 

[zingbobco000]

Generally spells/conditions that involve you physically attempting to break free require an action, so I would assume that was the intent here. Otherwise, spells usually call for a save at the end of the target's turn.

I agree with this and that's how I'd rule it.

 

[MG.0]

The initital check is a save.

Later attempts to break free are not saves, they are ability checks and thus require the held creature's action to do so.

 

[Blue]

The initital check is a save.

Later attempts to break free are not saves, they are ability checks and thus require the held creature's action to do so.

Thanks, that's what I was missing. Perfectly clear by the rules.