D&D 5E (2014) Magic Stone

[Xyrlove Woodsoul]

Magic Stone. (V, S)
"You touch one to three pebbles and imbue them with magic. . . "

Do you need a free hand for the somatic component, or can it be the hand holding the stone(s)? I'm thinking, by RAW you need a totally free hand. Note: Unlike Shillelagh it has no M component per se.

Right now, I'm just asking the RAW (and RAI), not how I should rule it.
Thanks.

 

[Sword of Spirit]

Tough question. I think most people (myself included) are going to tell you we'd let them use the same hand, but I'm not really sure how RAW would apply in this case, and I'm pretty familiar with what is written. The problem is that it doesn't appear to be written like other similar spells. Generally they would list the stones as material components, eliminating the question.

If I were forced to make a decision on a strict reading, I'd say that you can't cast the spell with the stones in that hand.

 

[PnPgamer]

You cast the spell, then are ready for targets. If you have two hands free, you can keep your sling and the stones in one hand while you cast. Use your available hand to cast spell and touch your stones. Stones are imbued. Put one stone in sling and shoot.

Ir you have a shield grab warcaster feat or weep

 

[Thyrwyn]

By RAW you do not need to be holding the stones. They are fluff.

 

[Ahrimon]

I remember reading that the same hand can be used for both somatic and material components.

 

[Xyrlove Woodsoul]

That would be fine and dandy if it had a material component, true. I wouldn't even be asking the question. But, the spell does not have a M material component. They didn't make it like Shillelagh for some reason, and I'm thinking they might have did that for a reason, i.e., perhaps ensuring you have a (totally) free hand?

By RAW you do not need to be holding the stones. They are fluff.

I was thinking along those lines, as well (but couldn't that be said about almost any spell really?). But, one could very well be enchanting one's hand, perhaps? Then by touching the pebbles you imbue them?
I'm not sure where to draw the line insofar as what's just fluff, and when fluff implies the RAI. I am concerned about the RAI too.
Wouldn't be a problem for a thri-kreen.

 

[Thyrwyn]

I remember reading that the same hand can be used for both somatic and material components.

Yep. but the spell in question does not have M listed as a component.

 

[The Grassy Gnoll]

Surely the stones are the material components themselves?

 

[PnPgamer]

Surely the stones are the material components themselves?

No, I believe they are the target in on themselves.

 

[fba827]

The stones are the targets. Just as if it said you touch someone you wouldn't need a free/empty hand to touch someone...(or do you? I am away from books)

If they were the components then it would be a different story, but they are the targets.