Taker of Souls

The Taker of Souls spell is a variant of the Reaper of Souls spell and initially works in the same way by tapping into the very essence of life and death, rending souls from their mortal vessels. However, when cast, the caster becomes a vessel for the abyssal void, channelling its malevolence and absorbing the souls that are taken from those around. This instantly turns the caster into a Soul Vampire as the effect is heady and addictive.

• Effect: All creatures within a 60-foot radius centred on the caster must make a Charisma saving throw or suffer the following effects:

  1. Failed Save: The creature’s soul is violently torn from its body, leaving behind an empty husk. The creature instantly dies, and its body crumples to the ground.
  2. Successful Save: The creature takes 10d10 necrotic damage as its soul quivers on the precipice of annihilation but remains tethered to its mortal form.

• Gem Consumption: The black obsidian gem is consumed during the casting, shattering into shards that disintegrate into the ether. The gem’s fragments are forever lost, and the caster gains a permanent shadowy mark on their soul.

Notes:

• Forbidden Knowledge: The Reaper of Souls spell is whispered only in the darkest corners of forbidden libraries. Its use is considered an abomination by most, and those who wield it risk madness and damnation.
• Consequences: The caster’s alignment immediately switches to the evil version of their current alignment, and their connection to the divine is destroyed. The gods themselves recoil from such power.
• Cursed Legacy: The caster’s eyes turn pitch-black, and they hear the wails of the souls within. Mortals fear them, and even allies regard them with suspicion.
• Cursed Earth: The Spell kills every living thing in a 60 foot radius around the caster, leaving sterilised earth where nothing will grow for at least six months.
• Sacrificed Legacy: The souls of the dead feed the casters ability.
  • The casters Wisdom modifier is increased by +1 for every 5 souls.
  • The Age of the caster is reduced by -2 years for every 5 souls. 
• Slot Sacrifice: The caster's charisma DC saving can be increased by +1 for each additional spell slot.

Remember, meddling with souls carries a heavy price. The weave of fate weaves tighter around those who dare invoke the Taker of Souls. Use this spell wisely, for it may unravel the very fabric of existence itself.