The carrion conundrum

[Michellus]

Hello,

In our last session we were discussing some hypothetical situations where we didnt have a clear view of the rules anymore. So one of our members suggested we ask here.

So here goes.

Suppose you are a (demi)lich. You have multiple phylactries. You astral project to another plane. Now what if someone say a scumbag adventurer casts dimensional lock on your corpse or on the projection.

Does the projection end, can the projection still move? Also does it matter wether you cast it on the projection or the corpse?

Also would a phylactry be a viable target for dimensional lock?

Furthermore when you call said (demi)lich with say gate. What would appear? The astral projection? The corpse? The phylactry? All? Or none?

Or can the caller specify what he wants to call?

Please exorcise this enigma.

[Urpriest]

In general, I have the impression that dimensional lock isn't strong enough to prevent souls from finding their way. If it were, then you could also use it on a corpse to prevent true resurrection, or the like. Not sure about the other cases.

[Xefas]

Hello,
Does the projection end, can the projection still move? Also does it matter wether you cast it on the projection or the corpse?

Nothing happens.



A dimensional lock does not interfere with the movement of creatures already in ethereal or astral form when the spell is cast


Also would a phylactry be a viable target for dimensional lock?

No. Dimensional Lock targets an area, not an object. All the spell does is prevent extradimensional travel (and explicitly the Teleport spell) into or out of the targeted area. There's nothing to suggest that it stops the movement of disembodied souls (and that interpretation might cause problems).


Furthermore when you call said (demi)lich with say gate. What would appear? The astral projection? The corpse? The phylactry? All? Or none?

That's a really good question, and may just need to be a DM call. Astral Projection seems to suggest that casting it makes you one creature with two bodies (it distinguishes between your 'physical body' and 'astral body'), so perhaps the Gate calls both bodies since it effects one creature?

[Gildedragon]

Regarding the demilich-gate conundrum
A specific DL is a unique creature and hence is under no obligation to appear (nor will it be controlled) hence them appearing is contingent on how they wish to arrive. the phylactery is unmoved though.

As to stopping a lich from regenerating. Thianium is your tool of choice.