Wondrous Item, Uncommon

The Game of Twenty Squares is more commonly known as “The Royal Game.” The game is considered to be sacred, and it has been played by gods and mortals since the dawn of time. Kings sometimes use the game to resolve disputes that would otherwise result in war. The game is played by moving seven pieces across a board comprising twenty squares. Dice are rolled to determine how quickly the pieces can move, and the object of the game is to reach the end of the twenty-square course before your

opponent. This requires a mix of strategy and luck. The game is protected against magical interference, which prevents cheating with spells such as Mage Hand.

Magical Wagers. Anything can be wagered on the outcome of the game—wealth, power, magic, or even the lives of the two players. Whenever gods play the game, this wager is enforced by magic woven into the fabric of the multiverse. Depending upon the nature of the wager, as many as six rematches may be allowed.

Starting the Game**.** Two players are required to play the game. They must agree to their wager beforehand, and it is customary to cut the thumb and make a “blood handshake” before the game begins.

Seven Rounds. The actual game is a series of seven opposed ability checks, which represent the various strategies that can be used to win. Each check determines the outcome of the race between two pieces, and they are made in this order: Charisma (Performance), Wisdom (Insight), Intelligence (History), Charisma (Deception), Charisma (Intimidation), Charisma (Persuasion), Wisdom (Perception). Tied ability checks must be repeated until one player prevails.

Winning the Game. The winner of the game is the first player to win four of the seven opposed ability checks.