“The Test of Vandis”
When Dave and I discussed this during our live chat, I was brimming with ideas. I felt an immediate urge to start writing. As a Dungeon Master, I constantly challenge myself. The realization that I had never truly designed a maze or a labyrinth indicated a fresh challenge ahead. Although I wasn’t planning on creating a massive map, I envisioned an ever-changing environment designed to test the wit, cunning, and combat abilities of its entrants.
In our campaign world, “Chimes of Discordia”, Vandis stands as the goddess of skill-at-arms. While she revels in combat, it isn’t solely about prowess in battle. She despises dishonest, sneaky tactics and cheap tricks. Instead, she values skills like athletics, acrobatics, and insight — the latter being essential for understanding one’s adversary. Given that one of my players in my kids’ game venerates Vandis, it seemed an apt setting for this creation. Depending on how the design process unfolds, I might consider it for a store product, write a blog post, or use it as an option for my one-shot sessions at conventions.
Dubbed “The Test” by many, this challenge manifests whenever Vandis senses that her disciples are prepared to champion her name. The Test is unique in each iteration, whether summoned intentionally or stumbled upon. It materializes as an expansive outdoor dungeon surrounded by high, immaculate, bleached stone walls. The architecture resembles that of ancient Rome, complete with graceful arches and sturdy columns. Every corner of this place would gleam with intricate decorations. Those who dare to enter will face both mental and physical trials, encountering an array of traps, hazards, and varying constructs.
At its core, The Test aims to gauge the participant’s physical resilience through relentless obstacles and battles, while also assessing their mental prowess as they navigate the perpetually shifting environment. Could they maintain their sanity during endless hours in a moving maze? The Test might even necessitate retracing steps to progress. Drawing inspiration from the movie “Labyrinth,” various video games, and elements from the “Maze of Mandoon” available on our website, The Test offers an unparalleled challenge.
When The Test materializes, it presents a choice to those it deems worthy. Participants can undertake its challenges, with success promising a treasured reward or boon. However, declining the invitation results in a permanent ban from The Test. Unbeknownst to challengers, failure within The Test’s confines results in their immediate eviction, forfeiting any chance at the reward.
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