Ring of the Bound Tempest magic item (D&D 5e 2024)

Attunement

requires attunement by a spellcaster

Mechanical effect

While you wear this ring, you can use an action to speak the elemental's binding command and release the Air Elemental imprisoned within. Once released, the Air Elemental appears in an unoccupied space within 30 feet and acts immediately on its own initiative (use the Air Elemental stats from the Monster Manual, but it is allied to you and obeys your verbal commands). The elemental remains until it is reduced to 0 hit points, or you use an action to attempt to bind it again. To rebond the elemental, you must succeed on a DC 18 Charisma (Persuasion) check contested by the elemental's Strength (Athletics) check; on a success, the elemental returns to the ring and the ring regains this ability. Once released, you can't release the elemental again until the ring finishes a long rest.

The ring has 3 charges and regains all expended charges daily at dawn. You can expend 1 charge to cast the spell Gust of Wind (spell save DC 18) without requiring concentration. You can expend 2 charges to cast the spell Wind Wall without requiring concentration.

While attuned, you have resistance to lightning and thunder damage.

Description

This heavy silver ring holds a swirling vortex of wind and storm, a powerful Air Elemental trapped within its confines by ancient magic. The elemental's restless energy can be unleashed by the wearer to fight on their behalf or to manipulate the air around them. Though the elemental is a potent ally, once freed it is difficult to restrain again, requiring a test of will and strength to reimprison it within the ring.

DM notes

The ring offers a thematic Legendary item that lets the wearer command a powerful Air Elemental once per day and cast thematic wind spells with limited charges. The contested rebinding mechanic adds a risky but balanced element of control without making the elemental an always-on servant. The resistances and spell save DC are strong but within Legendary bounds. This item encourages roleplay and tactical choice, fits the air elemental prison concept, and avoids overpowered permanent bonuses.