New magic item - music box of slumber

[howandwhy99]

This is probably too powerful, but I could use help in its creation. Maybe a 7HD cap could work? Thanks for any help.


Music Box of Slumber

In ancient time lone sorcerers explored the workings of their innate magical abilities in hopes to understand their nature in the world. One of these first “wizards”, named Ollygarp, created many items which each recreated one of his own innate powers. Unfortunately, learning to “memorize” these powers caused great mental strain. In order to rest each night he created a small box which helped him to fall asleep. Unlike his natural sleep spell casting, the box is designed to affect Ollygarp as well. Thus allowing him a full nights rest.

This is a small and delicate box made with polished wood and ornate silver filigree. A porcelain statuette is attached to its top and a copper crank to its side. Detaching the statuette and opening the lid reveals a velvet interior with a metal gearworks. When wound (2 standard actions) the box plays a soft melody. If the statuette is in place it spins slowly while the box emits a soft lullaby. The accompanying magical effect is per the sleep spell with no HD maximum and a 60 ft. radius. (Will Save DC: 14) This is a sonic, mind affecting compulsion that effects all within range continuously for the duration of the song. This normally includes the one who turned the crank. The music plays for 1 minute (10 turns). Any creatures remaining in the area of effect during this time must continue make saves or fall asleep. Affected creatures will sleep their normal full night's rest unless awoken.

Strong Enchantment; CL 15th; Craft Wondrous Item, sleep; Price 42,000 (+100gp statuette) gp.

 

[Laman Stahros]

Sleep is an Enchantment effect, and with a caster level of 15, the item should detect as Strong Enchantment.

 

[howandwhy99]

Wow. I really have nothing to really base this on. I have been looking around for Magic Item / Spell balancing help, but it doesn't seem to exist really.

The item is supposed to be more of a mindbender / trap that forces the PCs to think in a new way to be able to use the magic item. As it effects all within range for the full duration of the song (1 minute) the one who turns the crank takes a huge risk at sacrificing himself to any creatures in range that make their saves.

Because it is handheld, delicate, and takes 2 rounds to use, it doesn't work that well in combat either. I imagine it could be used more for tactical ambush than confrontation.

The enticing thing about it though is the Sleep spell without a HD cap. It is possible to affect nearly any creature (though high level ones are more likely to make their saves in time to leave the effect).

My rational behind this is that it was never intended as a weapon. The creature was the stereotypical eccentric wizard who had difficult sleeping. This was his solution.

 

[Judas]

So this is an Elven magic item then, right?

 

[gir]

If you're worried that the item is overpowered, you might want to think about limiting the effect so that individuals who make their save need not do so again either for the duration of the effect, or for 24 hours.

 

[howandwhy99]

If you're worried that the item is overpowered, you might want to think about limiting the effect so that individuals who make their save need not do so again either for the duration of the effect, or for 24 hours.

Yeah, I thought about changing the dynamics of the item around. But I fear it would lose flavor. It is supposed to be a sort of "accidentally" powerful magic item.

Maybe someone has some detailed spell creation rules somewhere. Then I could base the MI creation off of that.

Judas - Yep, it could easily be used by elves. Or the deaf. Or those with cotton in their ears.