Modify Memory

• Casting Time: 1 action
• Classes: Bard, Wizard
• Components: V S
• Concentration: Yes
• Duration: Up to 1 minute
• Higher Spell Slot Desc: If you cast this spell using a spell slot of 6th level or higher, you can alter the target's memories of an event that took place up to 7 days ago (6th level), 30 days ago (7th level), 1 year ago (8th level), or any time in the creature's past (9th level).
• Level: 5
• Name: Modify Memory
• Range: 30 feet
• School: Enchantment
• Target: One creature that you can see

You attempt to reshape another creature's memories. One creature that you can see must make a Wisdom saving throw. If you are fighting the creature, it has advantage on the saving throw. On a failed save, the target becomes charmed by you for the duration. The charmed target is incapacitated and unaware of its surroundings, though it can still hear you. If it takes any damage or is targeted by another spell, this spell ends, and none of the target's memories are modified.

While this charm lasts, you can affect the target's memory of an event that it experienced within the last 24 hours and that lasted no more than 10 minutes. You can permanently eliminate all memory of the event, allow the target to recall the event with perfect clarity and exacting detail, change its memory of the details of the event, or create a memory of some other event.

You must speak to the target to describe how its memories are affected, and it must be able to understand your language for the modified memories to take root. Its mind fills in any gaps in the details of your description. If the spell ends before you have finished describing the modified memories, the creature's memory isn't altered. Otherwise, the modified memories take hold when the spell ends.

A modified memory doesn't necessarily affect how a creature behaves, particularly if the memory contradicts the creature's natural inclinations, alignment, or beliefs. An illogical modified memory, such as implanting a memory of how much the creature enjoyed dousing itself in acid, is dismissed, perhaps as a bad dream. The DM might deem a modified memory too nonsensical to affect a creature in a significant manner.

A remove curse or greater restoration spell cast on the target restores the creature's true memory.

At Higher Levels: If you cast this spell using a spell slot of 6th level or higher, you can alter the target's memories of an event that took place up to 7 days ago (6th level), 30 days ago (7th level), 1 year ago (8th level), or any time in the creature's past (9th level).

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The SendingStone review

The Modify Memory spell is a powerful tool for manipulation and deception in the hands of a skilled caster. Its ability to completely alter someone's recollection of events can be used for both good and evil purposes. However, there are ethical considerations to take into account when deciding to use this spell. Manipulating someone's memory without their consent is a clear violation of their autonomy and could have negative consequences for both the caster and the target. Additionally, there is a risk of the modifications being discovered, leading to further mistrust and harm. While Modify Memory can be a valuable tool in certain situations, it should only be used with caution and consideration for the consequences.

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Modify Memory is D&D (Dungeons & Dragons) 5th edition content, but other TTRPGs may have their own version such as a Modify Memory Pathfinder edition. Want to use Modify Memory in a VTT (virtual tabletop)? Try out SendingStone for free today!

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