Command word

A command word, or a trigger word is a word that needs to be spoken aloud to activate a magical effect. A command word or words can be any word. Though common words are often avoided as to avoid activating a magical effect accidentally. Often a command word is a seemingly nonsensical word or a word from an ancient language.

In the time after the fall of Myth Drannor it was common for several centuries to hide a command word inside a more easily memorized phrase. However this fell out of use after too many magics were unintentionally activated. Often nowadays command words are best described as elegant nonsense.

Overwords are command words that can activate many magical effects, spells or items. Several wizards attempt to learn these words and capbooks are sold of them at every Mage Fair.

Careful folks keep command words secret, as many seek command words.

The spells Identify and analyze dweomer can both reveal command words.

Magic Items
Many magical items use command words to activate them. Often command words can be found written right on a magical item. Some time the word maybe hidden in a pattern or design. Command words are placed in a magic item during the Mastering step of magic item creation.