Skip to main content

Contingency

Evocation
Level: 6th-level
Casting Time: 10 minutes
Range: Self
Duration: 10 days
Components: V, S, M
Materials: A statuette of yourself carved from ivory and decorated with gems worth at least 1,500 gp.

Choose a spell of 5th level or lower that you can cast, that has a casting time of 1 action, and that can target you. You cast that spell-called the contingent spell-as part of casting contingency, expending spell slots for both, but the contingent spell doesn't come into effect. Instead, it takes effect when a certain circumstance occurs. You describe that circumstance when you cast the two spells. For example, a contingency cast with water breathing might stipulate that water breathing comes into effect when you are engulfed in water or a similar liquid. The contingent spell takes effect immediately after the circumstance is met for the first time, whether or not you want it to. and then contingency ends. The contingent spell takes effect only on you, even if it can normally target others. You can use only one contingency spell at a time. If you cast this spell again, the effect of another contingency spell on you ends. Also, contingency ends on you if its material component is ever not on your person.

Spell Details

School: Evocation
Level: 6
Ritual: No
Concentration: No
Classes: Wizard
S-Tier Contingency is a force multiplier that guarantees a defensive or offensive spell triggers automatically, providing unmatched tactical flexibility and action economy in critical moments.

Player Guide

Cast Contingency during preparation to embed a 5th-level or lower spell that triggers when you specify a condition (e.g., 'when I drop to 0 HP'). This spell persists for up to 10 days and activates instantly without using an action, effectively granting you a free spell cast mid-combat. Optimal use combines Contingency with life-saving defensive spells or guaranteed damage during surprise rounds. The 10-minute casting time and 1,500 gp material cost necessitate careful planning before adventures where you anticipate specific threats.

DM Tips

Require specific trigger conditions phrased clearly to avoid abuse (e.g., 'when I see an aberration' vs. 'whenever I want'). Remind players the spell consumes the contingent spell's slot until triggered or dismissed, and dispel-magic can end it prematurely.