Power word, silence

Power word, silence was an arcane alteration or conjuration spell that surrounded a target creature with a field that sound could not penetrate.

Effects
When the caster pointed at a creature and uttered the power word, an aura of silence instantly surrounded the creature out to a distance of 1 ft (30 cm). The affected creature could not make any sound nor hear any sound for a short period of time. The aura of silence spoiled spells being cast by the target and prevented any further spellcasting for the duration. It also prevented speech, voice activation of magic items, and negated sound-related effects such as a chime of opening or a horn of blasting. Spells could be cast in the aura of silence using vocalize, but only if vocalize was in effect before the power word, silence was applied. A non-silenced person could removed the silence with a limited wish or more potent magic, if so desired.

Components
Only the verbal power word was required to cast this spell. Pointing was dramatic, but unnecessary.

History
This spell was originally written down by a mage from Taruin (a town in Samarach) in a tome entitled "Selvar's Ineffable Conjurations, Magic, and Phantasms". The book was given to a young female named Ilistar who eventually became an apprentice of khelben "Blackstaff" Arunsun. This spell was later published in "Volo's Guide to All Things Magical" and became generally known to the magical community.