Illusory Script

A
Utility

Illusory Script is a Utility spell. Utility spells solve problems outside of combat or provide unique situational advantages.

See all Utility spells →
 spell that hides a
secret message

Illusory Script is a Information spell. Information spells provide ways to transmit, perceive, detect, or reveal hidden or unknown information.

See all Information spells →
 in plain sight, readable only by you and those you choose.

2024 Rules
Level & School
1st-level illusion
Casting Time
1 minute or Ritual
Range
Touch
Components
S, M (ink worth 10+ GP, which the spell consumes)
Duration
10 days
Classes
Bard, Warlock, Wizard

You write on parchment, paper, or another suitable material and imbue it with an illusion that lasts for the duration. To you and any creatures you designate when you cast the spell, the writing appears normal, seems to be written in your hand, and conveys whatever meaning you intended when you wrote the text. To all others, the writing appears as if it were written in an unknown or magical script that is unintelligible. Alternatively, the illusion can alter the meaning, handwriting, and language of the text, though the language must be one you know. If the spell is dispelled, the original script and the illusion both disappear.

A creature that has Truesight can read the hidden message.

2014 Rules
Level & School
1st-level illusion
Casting Time
1 minute
Range
Touch
Components
S, M (a lead-based ink worth at least 10 gp, which the spell consumes)
Duration
10 days
Classes
Bard, Warlock, Wizard

You write on parchment, paper, or some other suitable writing material and imbue it with a potent illusion that lasts for the duration.

To you and any creatures you designate when you cast the spell, the writing appears normal, written in your hand, and conveys whatever meaning you intended when you wrote the text. To all others, the writing appears as if it were written in an unknown or magical script that is unintelligible. Alternatively, you can cause the writing to appear to be an entirely different message, written in a different hand and language, though the language must be one you know.

Should the spell be dispelled, the original script and the illusion both disappear.

A creature with truesight can read the hidden message.

Illusory Script 5.5e 2024 vs. 5e 2014 edition differences

Illusory Script now has the Ritual tag. Otherwise it works the same at the table.

Illusory Script popularity

Illusory Script is a seldom chosen level 1 spell. Choosing it adds a unique option to your spellbook.

Spells similar to Illusory Script

  • Magic Mouth 2nd-level illusion

    Both inscribe magic onto an object to deliver hidden or delayed information and are used for long-term, ritual-style messaging or traps.

  • Arcanist's Magic Aura 2nd-level illusion

    This spell, like the target, alters how an item appears to magical inspection and can be used to hide or misrepresent an object's properties to others.

  • Comprehend Languages 1st-level divination

    It addresses the same problem of understanding written or spoken text, so players reach for it when they need to read or translate mysterious writing.

  • Tongues 3rd-level divination

    Although focused on speech, it similarly removes language barriers and is a go-to for making text or conversation intelligible to designated recipients.

  • Programmed Illusion 6th-level illusion

    Both create planned illusionary effects tied to objects or triggers, offering long-term scripted deception rather than instant, short-lived trickery.