The Hallow Spell

[ramseys]

We're trying to figure out what the area of effect is for the Hallow spell. The spell lists the area as "10 ft/level radius emanating from the touched point" in a "site, building or structure".

We're current hacking our way through a several-story tower that's just *teeming* with evil-doers. How does this spell affect a tower?

It's going to be cast by a tenth-level cleric, which means it will affect a 100 radius from his casting point. But does this work in all three dimensions? That is, are all 5 levels of the tower hallowed, or just the level on which it was cast? Or is the area of effect really a sphere with a 100-ft radius?

Any input would be appreciated. Thanks.

Ramsey

 

[Conaill]

In case of a tower I guess it would be reasonable to rule it as "100 ft radius worth of floor surface". I.e. a total of 31415 square feet. If the tower is 100x100', you could cover just over three floors.

A 100' radius just seems way too powerful...

 

[Greatwyrm]

I'd say a true 100' radius. The requirement for casting Hallow are pretty tough to pull off in this case. You're in a tower crawling with evil; what are the odds you'll have a whole day to cast this spell uninterrupted? Also, are you in the habit of carrying around 1000gp or more in magical herbs and spices?

In the SRD, the spell description says it provides a Magic Circle Against Evil effect. Protection barrier spells don't affect creatures when the barrier is forced against them by the caster. I'd say (and this is only my 2cp) being inside the circle when it is created pretty much forces it on you.

Finally, will your god look favorably on consecrating ground still filled with his/her/its enemies? You'd probably need to clean up the neighborhood before this spell would be granted by your power or choice.

 

[Conaill]

The way I understood it, the Hallow (more likely Unhallow) would have been cast by the enemy cleric some time beforehand. AFAIK, the first two effects (Magic Circle and undead bonuses) are essentially permanent until dispelled, the third (spell effect) lasts for a full year.

Great defensive spell, but not something you would try in combat, especially give the one day casting time...

 

[Conaill]

Ooh... and if you rule that Hallow/Unhallow only affects a single floor, you could have a different spell effect on each floor! Cause Fear, Silence, Deeper Darkness, Bane, Dispel Magic, etc.