Terminating Spells Prior to the End of their Duration

[Vetterix]

From the C&C rules point of view, can a caster terminate spells prior to the end of thier the duration ?

While I am asking the question in general, one reason for asking is that early termination may allow the 2nd level Wizard spell, Levitate, to be used offensively, depending on circumstances, by the caster releasing an opponent levitated several dozen feet in the air (of course the same will happen when the spell's duration expires).

[JediOre]

I'd say the magic-user could dismiss the spell. It is a magical effect, unlike web or a wall of stone.

[PeelSeel2]

Unless it is an effect he/she has to concentrate on, I would say they could not. Most spells are 'Fire and Forget', therefore the magic once in existence is not at the whim of the caster. IMO.
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[Treebore]

Look in the spell section under DURATION, it clearly states in there that a caster can dismiss their own spells early. Only spells that would specifically state otherwise cannot be dismissed.

If you have the 4th printing this section is on page 53.
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[Treebore]

PeelSeel2 wrote:
Unless it is an effect he/she has to concentrate on, I would say they could not. Most spells are 'Fire and Forget', therefore the magic once in existence is not at the whim of the caster. IMO.

I think "fire and forget" mostly applies to spells with instantaneous effects, like Fireball, Lightning Bolt, etc...

Dismissal will only apply to spells with durations beyond instantaneous.
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[PeelSeel2]

Treebore wrote:
Look in the spell section under DURATION, it clearly states in there that a caster can dismiss their own spells early. Only spells that would specifically state otherwise cannot be dismissed.

If you have the 4th printing this section is on page 53.

Useful. Thanks!
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Labor to keep alive in your breast that little spark of celestial fire called conscience.

-George Washington

[Vetterix]

Treebore wrote:
Look in the spell section under DURATION, it clearly states in there that a caster can dismiss their own spells early. Only spells that would specifically state otherwise cannot be dismissed.

If you have the 4th printing this section is on page 53.

I was not sure of this from the wording "A character can typically dismiss personal spells at will before the duration ends, or if the spell description so states." (PHB4, pp53). Specifically, I was not clear on the scope of the term "personal spell" being a spell the caster casts in general or a spell the caster casts on his person. I think after rereading this section, "personal spell" appears to indicate a spell cast by the caster as you have concluded.

Thanks!

[JediOre]

I suppose the best answer is what works best for you and your gang and be consistent. Treebore & I would allow early dismissal, as the official rules seem to agree, yet if that doesn't work for you and yours, change it.

[CharlieRock]

I would allow early dismissal of the levitate spell. It's pretty clear that unwilling targets get a save. So who minds if it is used offensively, like any other 'attacking' spell.
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[serleran]

I give spellcasters no additional benefits as they do not need them -- durations are durations. If you cast something and do not want it to last as long as it does, then use spell research and get a lower duration version, or cast a different spell. The effects of spells in C&C are powerful enough, without the caster having the added advantage of ending them whenever desired (and yes, I realize sometimes the benefit is the duration...) Of course, if I make spellcasters exceptionally rare or invoke use of my altered magic system, then these basic premises can be altered, but in a normal game-- no.
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