How to Become a Lich in Dungeons Dragons: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Becoming a lich in Dungeons Dragons (DD) is a serious and intricate process that requires not only a deep understanding of dark magic but also a willingness to sacrifice one's humanity. It is often seen as a path towards immortality, power, and uncontested control. This guide will provide you with the step-by-step process and necessary considerations to transform your character into a lich.

Character Requirements

The journey to becoming a lich begins with the right character. Here are the fundamental prerequisites:

Spellcaster: You must be a character who has access to powerful necromantic spells, typically a Wizard or similar class. The ability to cast necromancy spells is crucial for the transformation process. High Level: To undertake the complex ritual, you need to be at least level 11 or higher. Characters at this level have the necessary spell slots and spells to complete the transformation.

Research the Ritual

The path to lichdom begins with comprehensive research into the lichdom ritual. Here are the critical steps:

Lichdom Ritual: There are ancient tomes, scrolls, or the guidance of powerful undead or dark entities that contain the lichdom ritual. Components: The ritual requires specific components that are often rare and magical. You need a phylactery, a vessel to contain your soul, and various materials tied to death and undeath.

Create a Phylactery

The phylactery is a critical object that will hold your soul. It must be crafted from rare materials and is crucial for avoiding true death.

Protection: Ensure your phylactery is well-hidden or protected as its destruction would result in your permanent death.

Perform the Ritual

The ritual is a dark and perilous undertaking that involves the following steps:

Dark Magic: You need to cast specific spells and perform dark rites. Spells like Interfaces Repose or Animate Dead may be required. Sacrifice: You might need to sacrifice living beings to further bind your soul to the dark powers.

Transformation

Upon successful completion of the ritual, you will transform into a lich, granting you several powerful abilities:

Immortality: You no longer age and cannot die from natural causes. Spellcasting: You retain your existing spellcasting abilities and may gain new ones. Undead Traits: You gain resistance to many forms of damage and immunity to poison and disease.

Roleplay Considerations

Becoming a lich is not just a mechanical transformation. It requires careful roleplaying and consideration of how it affects your character:

Alignment Shift: There is often a significant shift in morality and alignment, typically toward evil. Goals and Motivation: Your goals and motivations may revolve around knowledge, power, or revenge. You may become more reclusive or tyrannical.

Additional Notes

Be sure to discuss with your Dungeon Master (DM) before attempting to become a lich. The process can vary based on their campaign setting and rules. Consider how becoming a lich will affect your relationships within the party and the world around you. Liches are often seen as major threats or antagonists.

Conclusion

Becoming a lich is a significant and dark transformation that requires careful planning, powerful magic, and a willingness to embrace evil. While it can lead to exciting storytelling opportunities, it also comes with great responsibility and potential consequences in your campaign.