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Darkness Statue

th tier (
Challenge
DC
Region
Area
(less than 1 hour)

An ebony statue of a trickster god has a black gem set in its forehead. The statue has one hand behind its back and one hand on its lips.

Touching the gem triggers a Failure.

Gem. A Perception or Investigation check, or an examination of the gem, reveals that the gem is worthless black glass. Smashing the gem results in a Critical Failure. Covering the gem blocks the darkness effect.

In the Darkness. Each time the trap is triggered, the statue animates for one round and makes a Sleight of Hand check (+5 bonus), attempting to pickpocket a creature within 5 feet of it. This check is made with advantage if the creature is unable to see. The statue then adopts its original position, piling any stolen items behind it, and becomes inanimate. Searching the area or looking behind the statue reveals any pilfered items.

Magical Effect. This is a magical effect created by evocation magic. Casting dispel magic on the gem triggers a Success.

Possible Solutions
  • A creature can make a thieves’ tools check to remove the gem, or an Arcana check to dampen the gem’s magic for one round and allow it to be removed safely.

Potential Outcomes

Critical Failure. The glass gem shatters in its socket, releasing a darkness spell centered on the statue. The darkness is permanent until dispelled. See In the Darkness.

Failure. The gem casts darkness with a duration of 1 minute. The trap automatically resets after 1 minute. See In the Darkness.

Success. The gem can be removed safely, disabling the trap.

Critical Success. As a Success, except the gem retains some of its magic. It can be used like a spell scroll of darkness .