Does using Combined spells increase the level of a spell or does the spell just use a higher level slot as if using meta magic (ignoring heighten, of course)?
Example: I use combined spells to memorize the 3rd level spell "Bestow Curse" in a 4th level wizard spell slot (assuming it's not in my spellbook). Is it a 3rd or 4th level spell for determining save DC, lesser globe of invulnerability and similar things?
Pretty much the only thing that actually raises the level of a spell is Heighten Spell. The slot you put a spell in has no bearing whatsoever on the spell's level.
That's what I thought. Thanks guys!