The Obsidian Labyrinth of Varnath

Volthius

Volthius

— 3 min read
The Obsidian Labyrinth of Varnath

The Obsidian Labyrinth of Varnath is an intricate maze of shadowy passages and hidden chambers, forged by the enigmatic sorcerer Varnath centuries ago. As an experiment to contain his forbidden knowledge, he created this dungeon to keep both his treasures and dark secrets from the outside world. Entrapped within its deep recesses are the remnants of failed experiments—beasts morphed beyond recognition, all beckoning brave adventurers as they delve into the depths of Varnath's obsidian prison.

Room Descriptions

1. Entrance Hall

As you enter, the thick air tastes metallic, a remnant of potent alchemical concoctions once stored here. The walls are covered in intricate obsidian inscriptions that seem to shift and change as you gaze upon them. Shadows flicker at the edges of the torchlight.

  • Monsters: None
  • Treasures: A Scroll of Etherealness lies forgotten on a pedestal.

2. Chamber of Echoes

This large, circular chamber causes every sound to reverberate hauntingly, echoing your whispers and footfalls. A finely-crafted obsidian table sits in the center, surrounded by four empty chairs that seem oddly out of place.

  • Monsters: Echo Sprites (2d4)
  • Traps: An Auditory Warding Trap that disorients anyone who speaks above a whisper, requiring a saving throw or suffer penalties to attacks and checks.
  • Treasures: A sparkling Obsidian Gemstone (worth 1,500 gp) lies under the table.

3. Hall of Shifting Shadows

The light dims as you navigate through this narrow corridor, where shadows writhe and twist as if alive. Your heart quickens with each step, as if the very darkness were watching you.

  • Monsters: Shadow Stalkers (2d4)
  • Traps: Shadow Blades that spring from the walls (Reflex save to avoid taking 2d6 slashing damage).

4. Laboratory of Horrors

The room is cluttered with jars containing unidentifiable specimens and bubbling vials. Strange tools hang from the walls, and the faint smell of burnt hair lingers in the air.

  • Monsters: Mutated Beasts (1d6)
  • Unique Encounter: An Alchemist NPC, desperate for help, who can offer valuable potions in exchange for protection.
  • Treasures: A set of Alchemy Supplies and a Potion of Greater Healing.

5. The Throne of Varnath

A dark throne made entirely of obsidian dominates this room, with glistening runes carved into its surface. A palpable aura of dread fills the air, and the floor is littered with the remnants of previous challengers.

  • Monsters: Varnath's Guardian (a powerful construct that serves him).
  • Traps: Soul Siphon Trap: If triggered, it drains 1d10 hit points from each character in the room unless they succeed on a Will save.
  • Treasures: The Crown of the Eternal Night: Grants the wearer shadowy powers.

6. Puzzle of Shadows

In this dimly lit chamber, a massive, intricate puzzle made of shifting shadows covers the wall. Solving it could yield great rewards but failure may lead to dire consequences.

  • Unique Encounter: A group of Psionic Wraiths, tasked with protecting the puzzle.
  • Treasures: If completed successfully, the puzzle reveals a Portal to a Hidden Chamber (see Room 10).

This room is filled with reflective surfaces that seem to distort reality. The mirrors show not only reflections but echoes of the past—shadows of Varnath's deeds.

  • Monsters: Mirror Images of characters that manifest as Doppelgangers.
  • Traps: Kaleidoscopic Illusion Trap creates a palpable sense of dread.
  • Treasures: A Mirror of True Sight, revealing hidden truths about treasures and monsters.

8. Chamber of Binding

The air vibrates with magical energy in this room, where ancient symbols decorate the walls. Chains of light dance through the air, binding a massive creature in the center of the room.

  • Monsters: The bound creature, a Celestial Beast, may offer assistance if freed.
  • Traps: A Binding Trap that ensnares unwary adventurers in magical chains if they enter without proper incantations.
  • Treasures: A Ring of Binding, granting control over summoned creatures.

9. Passage of Shadows

This winding corridor leads deep into the labyrinth, with soft whispers echoing around you. The oppressive darkness weighs heavily, but you feel a pull urging you onward.

  • Monsters: Umbral Stalkers (1d6)
  • Traps: Constrictor Ceilings that drop down, requiring a quick reflex to escape being pinned.
  • Treasures: An ancient piece of Map to Hidden Treasures scattered throughout the labyrinth.

10. Hidden Sanctum

Accessible only through the solved puzzle of Shadows, this room radiates a mystical light that contrasts with the surrounding darkness. A sacred altar holds Varnath's most cherished possessions—knowledge and power.

  • Unique Encounter: A Spirit of Varnath, guarding priceless secrets.
  • Treasures: The Tome of Forbidden Knowledge, granting powerful spells and secrets.

Conclusion

As you lead your adventurers through the Obsidian Labyrinth of Varnath, remember to add your unique spins, altering encounters, treasures, or traps based on player choices and interactions. You can connect this dungeon to larger narratives by hinting at Varnath’s history with other characters or places in your campaign world. Encounters with rival adventurers seeking the same treasures can add unexpected tension. Encourage players' creativity when solving puzzles and traps, allowing them to feel ownership of their victories and a sense of immersion within this dark labyrinth.

This dungeon promises a thrilling journey filled with mystery, peril, and the allure of power awaiting those brave enough to explore its depths.

Read more