Trap: The Paradox of the Righteous Gemstone

Adam Pate

March 31, 2025

Trap

The Paradox of the Righteous Gemstone

Complexity: Complex

Type: Hybrid (Magical and Mechanical)

Severity: Deadly

Trigger: Stepping within a 5-foot radius of a perfectly faceted, black diamond

Effect: Upon activation, the gemstone triggers a Divine Retribution effect.

Damage Output: 12d10 radiant damage for characters whose average level is 12 or higher. 8d10 radiant damage for characters below this threshold. (Radiant Damage)

Detection DC: DC 15 Perception Check, DC 17 Investigation Check

Disarm DC: DC 20 Arcana or Thieves’ Tools Check

As the characters enter the opulent chamber of the temple, they are greeted by a breathtaking display of gems adorning the walls and altar, each one glimmering like a celestial body. At the room’s center lies the black diamond—an exquisite yet foreboding gem that seems to draw in the light around it. A low, soothing hum vibrates through the air, beckoning adventurers closer, while an oppressive sense of greed lingers, enhancing the weight of every glittering facet. Should the gem be disturbed, a brilliant light bursts forth, blinding those caught in its wake as a surge of radiant energy floods the room. As characters wrestle with the overwhelming luminescence, the eye-catching spectacle serves as both a visual delight and a harbinger of fatal retribution, drawing back treasures sacred to lost worshippers with eternal vigilance.

Gameplay Notes for “The Paradox of the Righteous Gemstone”

1. Trap Activation:

Trigger Conditions:
- The trap activates when a character steps within a 5-foot radius of the hidden black diamond embedded in the floor (make sure to place the black diamond where it can be discovered by players).
- Characters may take notice of the misalignment or the hum of energy by making a successful DC 17 Investigation or DC 15 Perception check as they approach.
Activation Sequence:
- Once triggered, the characters should see a shimmering of lights as the floor becomes aglow. This initiates the trap’s effects.
- Announce that each character within range experiences the light engulfing them as radiant magic flows through the chamber.

2. Detection and Disarm Notes:

Detection Options:
- Perception Check (DC 15): Detects the humming sound emanating from the gemstone, hinting at magic.
- Investigation Check (DC 17): Reveals the misaligned diamond, indicating it is not a mere decoration and may be a trap mechanism.
Disarm Mechanism:
- To disarm the trap, one character needs to be within 5 feet of the diamond.
- They can attempt a DC 20 Arcana or Thieves’ Tools check to disarm the trap while interpreting the inscription about guarding against greed.
- On a successful disarm attempt, the gemstone dims, nullifying further effects from the trap.

3. Suggested Tactics and Variations:

Targeting Characters:
- If the party includes a clear leader, the trap can focus its damage effects or animate constructs to attack that character first, representing the temple’s judgment upon greedier souls.
Environmental Awareness:
- Adjust the ambient effects based on player actions; for example, increased light reflection or a sudden drop in temperature to foreshadow the activation as they discuss collecting gems.
Trap Level Variations:
- Increase DCs by 2-3 depending on party strength.
- Raise damage output or lower saving throw DCs to increase challenge in stronger parties.

4. Initiative and Round Actions:

Trap Initiative:
- The trap has an initiative of +2 and rolls for initiative normally, using a d20. It will act after all player characters.
Round Actions:
- Phase 1 (Round 1): Initial Trigger
  - Activate Divine Retribution: All affected characters take 12d10 radiant damage (or 8d10 if below level 12). Each character must make a DC 18 Constitution saving throw.
    - Fail: Blinded for 1d4 rounds.
    - Success: Stunned for 1d4 rounds.
- Phase 2 (Rounds 2-3): Construct Activation
  - At the end of Round 1, if any character drops to 0 HP, 1d4 animated gemstone constructs (similar to Stone Golems) awaken and attack.
  - Each construct rolls initiative separately but will prioritize characters who appear greedy (those who try to collect more gems or take aggressive actions).
- Phase 3 (Round 4 and Beyond): Ongoing Guardian Effect
  - If constructs are active, they will continue to summon 1 additional construct every two rounds until all characters are at risk or have taken measures to disable the gemstone.

5. Round-by-Round Effects:

Round 1:
- Characters triggered the trap, take damage, and make saving throws. Radiant light engulfs the room, and they may be blinded or stunned.
Round 2:
- Constructs animate if any character is at 0 HP. Constructs attack the nearest character, using melee attacks that deal 3d10 bludgeoning damage.
- Characters who are blinded must use actions to regain their sight.
Round 3:
- Any constructs still active continue to attack. Characters can attempt to regain control by making use of Disarm checks or damage to the constructs.
Round 4 and Onward:
- Additional constructs appear based on players’ ongoing HP adjustments. Repeat combat actions until either the trap is disarmed, the constructs are eliminated, or all players are incapacitated.

6. Additional Tips for Running Smoothly:

Visual and Auditory Cues: Emphasize the environment. Use vivid descriptions of the light pulsating, the heat waves, and the radiant gems to create tension and excitement.
Tracking Conditions: Keep track of conditions (like Blinded and Stunned) on a notepad for ease of reference.
Player Choices: Encourage players to think strategically—using spell slots and abilities wisely can mitigate damage or interrupts summon actions.
Incorporate Lore: Have characters that resonate with the theme react differently to the trap, reflecting on moral dilemmas about worthiness, greed, and wealth.

By combining immersive storytelling with dynamic trap mechanics, “The Paradox of the Righteous Gemstone” can provide an engaging and memorable challenge that enhances player interaction and thematic unity within your campaign.

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