AGE 12+

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OF THE
SSSWWWOOORRRDDD CCCOOOAAASSSTTT

DREAMS OF THE RED WIZARDS

AN ADVENTURE FOR CHARACTERS OF 2

ND
4
TH
LEVEL
TITO LEATI MATT SERNETT CHRIS SIMS
INTRODUCTION
Scourge of the Sword Coast
TM
is a D&D

Next adventure
designed for 2nd-level characters. This adventure is the
first part of the Dreams of the Red Wizards campaign,
which continues with the Dead in Thay adventure,
available later in 2014. Over the course of these two
adventures, players can face off with major villains of
the FORGOTTEN REALMS

campaign setting.
This adventure is playable at home or through a
thirteen-session D&D Encounters season. The season
begins on the February 1516 Launch Weekend at
your local Wizards Play Network location. The season
continues every Wednesday after that, and concludes
on Wednesday, May 7. Playing in the store is fun and a
great way to enhance the experience. Here are some of
the benefits of playing in stores.
Participants receive a twenty-sided die designed
especially for this season.
Players receive a color map of the Daggerford region.
Dungeon Masters receive a poster map of Dagger-
ford as well as its surrounding region.
Dungeon Masters receive six nonplayer-character
cards that they can use as a play aid.
Its a really great way to support your friendly local
game store!
Launch Weekend kicks off this season. Check which
day your local game store plans to run the event. This
season, the Launch Weekend portion is built into
the adventure. Allow two to four hours for the event.
Players should have enough time to gain admittance
to Daggerford and find at least one of the adventure
hooks. That way, when they return on Wednesday for
D&D Encounters, its easy to pick up where they left off.
CREDITS
Design
Tito Leati, Matt Sernett, Chris Sims
Development
Matt Sernett, Chris Sims
Editing
Scott Fitzgerald Gray
D&D Group Manager
Mike Mearls
D&D Producer
Greg Bilsland
Senior Creative Director
Jon Schindehette
Art Director
Kate Irwin
Graphic Designer
Trish Yochum
Cover Illustration
Tyler Jacobson
Cartography
Mike Schley
Interior Illustrations
Sam Carr, Miles Johnston, Mike Schley, Mark Winters
D&D Brand Team
Nathan Stewart, Liz Schuh, Laura Tommervik, Shelly
Mazzanoble, Chris Lindsay, Hilary Ross, John Feil
Prepress Manager
Jefferson Dunlap
Imaging Technician
Carmen Cheung
Production Manager
Donna Woodcock
Organized Play
Chris Tulach
Playtesters
Adam Page, Andr Bgin, Andrew, Andy Madsen, Anthony Carroselli,
Brendan Bar, Brent, Bri, Cecilia Black, Chris Olsen, Chris Wood, Craig
Campbell, David Stark, Dean Hagis, Derek McIntosh, Derwin Roberson,
Edward Kim, Egert, ric Leroux, Genevieve Miedema, Giaco Furino, Greg
Wise, Harry Flaskos, Harvie Jarriell, Horner, Iakus, Jamie Tachiyama, Jason
Baxter, Jason Burnley, Jason, JD Harvill, Jessica, Jonah Wise, Jonathan
Urman, Josh Pittman, Karl Resch, Keegan Wise, Kenneth J. Breese, Lauren
Bilanko, Liam Gulliver, Manda Collis, Manon Crevier., Marc Bernard, Mark,
Mary Hershey, Matt Rolston, Matthew Stanton, Mlanie Ct, Melissa
Forward, Michael Liebhart, Mik Calow, Mike Flaskos, Mike, Naomi Harris,
Naomi Kellerman-Bernard, Nick Peterson, Nicole Bunge, Raiane, Ray
Franklin, Reanna Hackney, Regis Collins, Rob Ramirez, Robert Alaniz,
Robert Hallowell, Robert Quillen II, Sean Plank, Shaun, Tiffany Taylor,
Todd Wahnish, Tom Burdak, Travis Graham, Western Avenue Gamers, Will
Vaughn, Yan Lacharit
Dungeons & Dragons, D&D, Forgotten Realms, their respective logos, and
Scourge of the Sword Coast, all other Wizards of the Coast product names, and
their respective logos are trademarks of Wizards of the Coast LLC in the USA
and other countries. All Wizards characters and their distinctive likenesses
are property of Wizards of the Coast LLC. This material is protected under
the copyright laws of the United States of America. Any reproduction or
unauthorized use of the material or artwork contained herein is prohibited
without the express written permission of Wizards of the Coast LLC. Any
similarity to actual people, organizations, places, or events included herein is
purely coincidental.
2014 Wizards of the Coast LLC.
620B11188001 EN
PREPARING THE
ADVENTURE
Before you start the adventure, spend time familiarizing
yourself with the locations, events, and characters. The
adventures introduction is the most important part to
read initially. As characters proceed, get comfortable not
only with the locations theyre going to explore, but also
with the statistics of the creatures relevant to the area.
2
remote area of the Forlorn Hills, away from prying eyes
yet within striking distance of the Thayans ultimate
aimWaterdeep. In the fortress, under the direction
of the lich Tarul Var, the Red Wizards are creating a
magic gate to transport their forces from Thay to the
Sword Coast. They plan to connect the gate to a portal
network a gold elf named Shalendra Floshin revealed to
them while under Baazkas inf luence.
To distract nearby inhabitants from the true objec-
tive and to soften possible future resistance, the Red
Wizards have employed Baazka to possess several evil
humanoids and persuade their tribes to come over to
Szass Tams side. As the Red Wizards magic gate nears
completion, bands of bloodthirsty humanoids prey
on traffic across the Daggerford region, raising panic
and confusion. News of the attacks has been reaching
Daggerford on almost a daily basis, and with this infor-
mation have come groups of desperate refugees.
Daggerford cant take in all the displaced folk. To
make matters worse, Pencheska, a succubus in thrall
to Tarul Var, is working to sow chaos in the town. Her
efforts have met with no resistance thus far. Although
the return of the Red Wizards is not yet revealed, it is
clear that Daggerford needs heroes to stop the scourge
currently menacing nearby lands.
ADVENTURE SYNOPSIS
The adventurers arrive when Daggerford is crowded
with refugees from outlying lands. Goblins, gnolls, and
orcs have been raiding the countryside. Now, food is
scarce and tension is high. Blame for a theft has fallen
on the refugees, and the Duke of Daggerford has forbid-
den more of the displaced from coming into town.
After overcoming difficulties to enter Daggerford,
the characters learn more about the raids. As they fight
against the humanoids and delve deeper in the dark-
ness that encircles Daggerford, the characters learn of
Bloodgate Keep. After a final fiendish ambush, theyre
ready to confront the real threat to the area.
STARTING THE
ADVENTURE
This adventure assumes the characters, due to a call
from Sir Isteval in Daggerford for heroic or mercenary
aid, are all traveling with a caravan from Waterdeep
toward Daggerford. The players might have other ideas.
(All the characters need not be coming for the same
reason.) You might take a moment to describe who Sir
Isteval is, since the characters are likely to know him at
least by reputation.

BACKGROUND
This adventure picks up in Daggerford after the events
of Ghosts of Dragonspear Castle. That series of four
adventures (available on www.dndclassics.com) chroni-
cles the efforts of the Red Wizards to collect four keys
to unlock the power of elemental nodes located in an
abandoned temple once dedicated to the Princes of
Elemental Evil.
Over the course of Ghosts of Dragonspear Castle, char-
acters faced off with the Red Wizards and other threats
around Daggerford. They also encountered many of the
nonplayer characters (NPCs) featured in this adventure,
including Sir Isteval, who is at the center of the effort
to thwart the Red Wizards plans. If you are running
Scourge of the Sword Coast for the same group that played
through Ghosts of Dragonspear Castle, you might want to
adjust portions of this adventure to account for events in
that one.
In Ghosts of Dragonspear Castle, a gate to the Nine
Hells lay open for some time, spewing devils and
smoke. The heroes who closed the gate could not
know it, but amid the chaos of battle, another threat
emerged. This invisible presence is the essence of a pit
fiend who has long had designs on the Sword Coast.
The devil, named Baazka, once marshaled armies from
Dragonspear Castle, and it was into his heart that a
priest of Tempus lodged the mighty Illydrael, the sword
that served as the key to closing the gate.
Smote through the heart but not yet dead, Baazka
f led through the gate, the blade of the sword breaking
off in his body. Had the blow killed him in the world,
the devil could have returned after a century to wreak
his revenge. Had it killed him in the Nine Hells, Baazka
would have ceased to exist. Instead, the pit fiends black
heart continued to beat around the blade. Fearing
that removing the broken sword would mean his end,
Baazka has struggled along in the Nine Hells, reminded
of his desire for revenge with every painful heartbeat.
Through sympathetic magic, Baazka was unable to
enter Faern as long as the gate remained closed by Illy-
drael. Once the gate opened, he could pass through only
in a ghostlike state. In this form, the pit fiend sought
and failed to possess a Red Wizard named Mennek.
The attempt alerted Mennek, who informed his master,
Szass Tam. Now Baazka works with the Red Wizards
in return for Szass Tams promise to free the fiend from
his cursed and pained existence.
The events of Ghosts of Dragonspear Castle failed to
end Szass Tams scheme to turn the Sword Coast into
a bridgehead for Thayan domination of northwestern
Faern. If anything, the Red Wizards tribulations
urged them to act with more caution.
On the ruins of the abandoned elemental temple,
the Thayans have been constructing a secret strong-
hold they call Bloodgate Keep. The small fortress is in a
3
When youre ready to begin, read the following:
By the time the caravan youre with is a day out of Dagger-
ford, a number of refugees, mostly displaced farmers and
other commoners, have joined the train. Everyone has heard
news of widespread and unusual raiding by savage human-
oids, such as gnolls, orcs, and goblins. As the caravan passes
south along the Trade Way, abandoned and burned farm-
steads and thorps are a common sight. The evidence along
this part of the road suggests gnolls and goblins.
The caravan circles up for the night within sight of a farm-
stead to the east. The place is bereft of life. A scarecrow leans
in a partially plowed field. The fences have been knocked
down in places. Doors to the house and barn stand open.
Development: Let the players introduce their char-
acters. Nothing significant happens until the characters
go to the farmstead or later in the night.
Clues: The farmstead is ransacked and looted. Only
some food stores and ale remain. Clues include long
arrows, some bloody fangs, and a severed wolf s paw.
This evidence points to gnolls, as anyone who succeeds
on a DC 10 Intelligence (History or Nature) check can
discern. A character who can track can eventually learn
the gnolls came from the north a couple days ago.
Creatures: During the night, six goblins and a
goblin boss come with two sack-laden wolves to raid the
remaining stores on the farm. If no one is in the farm-
stead, they start ransacking the place for fun. With a
successful DC 10 Wisdom (Perception) check, charac-
ters at the caravan might hear them breaking pottery
and fences, and see them light the scarecrow on fire.
Although the caravan guards keep close watch, the gob-
lins dont come down to the road. Therefore, no NPCs
from the caravan go to investigate the disturbance at
the farmstead.
Difficult Admittance
As the characters approach Daggerfords Caravan Gate
in the late afternoon the next day, the towns situation
becomes clear. Read the following text to the players,
allowing them to interrupt at any time:
Wagons and carts are parked among tents and other impro-
vised shelters on the caravan grounds near Daggerfords
southern Caravan Gate. Draft animals and a few haggard
folk are in the ramshackle camp.
A larger group of people is gathered around the gateway.
The people, likely refugees, are shouting at a semicircle of six
leather-clad, crossbow-armed guards that has a sturdily built
female human at its center. She wears studded leather and
leans on a spear, holding her helmet under her left arm, to
which a buckler is strapped.
A young human man near the front of the crowd yells, My
wife is with child! She needs real shelter and some help, for
the love of the gods! A wide-eyed pregnant woman wrings
her hands at his side.
Over more shouts, the female soldier looks contrite and
speaks. The duke has decreed that no more refugees can
enter the town. The militia enforces the dukes will in this. No
exceptions. Im sorry.
Mustnt you at least admit those in real need, Sherlen?
asks a well-dressed half ling standing just in front of the
crowd. Theyve come here for help. Someone could die. He
wears a fine azure cloak with a brooch that looks like a out-
sized coin with a female face on itthe symbol of the goddess
Tymora, Lady Luck.
No exceptions, Curran, she replies.
A small crowd of locals has gathered inside the gate
behind the guards.
Roleplaying: The characters can intervene. See
the Local Notables section for more on the important
townsfolk (Curran, Sherlen, and Pencheska) involved.
Here are some parameters for the scene.
The pregnant womans name is Anise Bower, and
her husbands name is Jon.
Refugees arent allowed in because a relic was
recently stolen from Duke Maldwyns castle. The
duke believes a stranger in town stole the object,
Curran Corvalin
4
a rectangular brick of quartzite carved in the styl-
ized likeness of a dwarf face. The duke wants no
more beggars in town until the brick, locally
known as the Delimbiyr Bloke, is recovered.
Only those who can pay for a stay at the River
Shining Tavern (2 gp per person per day, includ-
ing meals) can enter Daggerford. As the most
upscale inn in Daggerford, the River Shining is
the only place in town with room for more guests.
If the characters offer to pay the way for Jon
and Anise Bower, and show the party has the
money to do so, Sherlen is uncertain what to do.
If the characters suggest this course but cant pro-
duce the money for themselves and the Bowers,
Curran Corvalin offers to pay for the common-
ers. It then takes a DC 10 Charisma (Persuasion)
check to convince Sherlen to make the exception.
Characters can appeal to Sherlens heroic side
by volunteering to aid the town. As adventuring
types, they look like they might be able to help.
If they do so, Sherlen invites them to stay in the
militia barracks.
A good performer or skilled artisan might be
able to appeal for a place in town, either by way
of the guilds or as a tavern entertainer. Anyone
who succeeds on a DC 10 Intelligence (History)
check knows enough about Daggerfords culture
to know this path is a possibility.
Convincing Sherlen in this case takes some evi-
dence of the characters skill and some persuasion
(DC 10 Charisma [Performance] or [Persuasion]
check). A character who volunteers to pay guild
dues (2 gp) gains advantage on the check, as
someone who succeeded on the aforementioned
Intelligence check also knows.
If the players come up with another scheme to get
past the militia, use the options already described
as guidelines for improvising the interaction.
Development: Whether the characters succeed
or fail to gain entrance, the refugee crowd becomes
unruly. Here are some parameters for this development.
Several refugees move toward the guards while
shouting. A few pick up rocks.
Curran calls, unheeded, for calm.
Sherlen puts on her helmet and warns the refu-
gees to back off.
The character who has the highest Wisdom score
or proficiency in Wisdom (Insight) notices a male
human guard (named Grengel) is terrified, his
hand twitching on his crossbow trigger.
Each character has one turn to calm the situation
or otherwise intervene.
If the situation is not calmed by the time each
character has had a chance to act, Grengel fires
his crossbow, killing a refugee. If the situation is
calmed, Grengel shoots at a character. In either
case, he then screams and draws his spear.
The adventurers can then roll initiative with
Grengel, who attacks one of them at random.
Everyone else is too surprised to act during the
first round, although Sherlen Miller calls for
Grengel to be subdued rather than killed, on pen-
alty of arrest.
When combat starts, the refugee crowd panics
and f lees toward the caravan grounds. Several
refugees are injured in the stampede, including
Jon Bower.
The succubus Pencheska, in the form of Natyssa,
is among the locals inside the Caravan Gate. She
is inf luencing Grengel. When Grengel is subdued,
she leaves the gate.
Conclusion: Grengel snaps out of his frenzied state
if he takes any damage, then he collapses, sobbing, on
the road. If the characters havent taken him down by
the second round, Sherlen clubs him unconscious with
her spear haft, bringing an end to the chaos.
If the characters helped, Sherlen allows them into
Daggerford. She tries to arrest the characters if they
killed Grengel, but Curran begs her to avoid escalating
the tragic situation further. Curran volunteers to keep
the characters in town until matters can be worked out.
They can always be arrested later, with the help of the
dukes soldiers if need be. In any case, Sherlen asks to
see the characters sometime tomorrow.
The other guards take Grengel, or his body, away.
As the situation comes to a close, the militia members
close the Caravan Gate.
Jon and Anise are admitted to the town only if the
characters or Curran arrange for them.
Currans Tour
After events at the gate have been resolved, Curran
takes the characters under his wing for a time. While
smoking his pipe, he shows the characters the places
they need to see based on how they plan to stay in town.
His tour always includes the Lady Luck Tavern and the
River Shining Tavern, as well as Fairfortune Hall. It can
include any other place the characters are interested
in, such as the Guildmasters Hall and the marketplace
for artisans, as well as various temples for the religious.
Curran also shows the characters the jail, where Sher-
len lives and Grengel is kept. (Sherlen is briefing the
duke, so the jail is closed up. Characters can try to talk
to Grengel later.)
5
Curran also knows that Sir Isteval has gone to
Waterdeep with a half-elf named Kelson Darktreader
and the elf lord Darfin Floshin. They were planning to
do some scouting on the way to learn more about raids
along the Trade Way.
The characters then have the evening free. Curran
invites them to the Lady Luck Tavern. If the characters
prefer another venue, Curran joins them there.
Theft of the Delimbiyr Bloke
Curran tells the characters that the duke is up in arms
because, a few days ago, someone stole the Delimbiyr
Bloke, an ancestral relic in the ducal collections. Duke
Maldwyn believes someone in town, likely a refugee, is
responsible. He has all but closed Daggerford until the
Bloke is found.
The object is a block of shining quartzite, the size of
a brick, carved in the likeness of a bearded face. It has
an inscription in Dwarvish where the mouth should
be, reading, Friendship is more than a word. Weigh
it carefully. The Blokes nickname comes from the
belief that one of the dukes ancestors found the brick in
Delimbiyran ruins.
Curran mentions that Jekk, a dwarf adventurer and
friend of Sir Istevals, was very interested in the Bloke.
The half ling priest knows Jekk is organizing a venture
and leaving the town soon. Jekk comes to the same
tavern that evening to enjoy some comfort before his
trip; see Jekks Departure later in this section. Curran
can arrange for the characters to meet Jekk sooner if
they wish.
Daggerford Rumors
While in the tavern for the evening, the characters hear
the following rumors.
Contact with Julkoun: A seasoned human fisher
named Edic Tilveram talks about the lack of traffic on
the Delimbiyr River from the east. His wife, Yalvi, says
Ballick, the gnome tailor at the Decorated Man, has
been looking for a shipment of cloth from Julkoun, a
village on the eastern river, for a tenday or more.
Intelligence (History) DC 10: Julkoun is a town noted
for its cloth mill and underground inn, the Jesters
Pride. The Delimbiyr River passes through the Laugh-
ing Hollow between Daggerford and Julkoun. The
hollow is a wild land with many fey inhabitants.
Intelligence (History or Religion) DC 15: Julkoun
has only one temple. The villagers are devotees to
Chauntea. If a character mentions this fact, the locals
point out that their priestess of Chauntea, Hadeshah,
keeps in contact with Julkouns priest, Estor.
Gnoll Attacks: Vossan Raker, a retired half-elf
rancher, talks about gnoll attacks in the territory east of
the Trade Way between Waterdeep and the Delimbiyr
THE DELIMBIYR BLOKE
The block is, in fact, a sacred item, as Jekk rightly
believes. A relic of Gorm Gulthyn, dwarven guardian
deity, the Bloke is actually the Face of Gorm, a won-
drous item. It came from Firehammer Hold long ago,
and its magic power can be recharged there.
Alven Gissen told Natyssa about the Bloke. She went
to the ducal castle to see it and sensed the residual
divine magic in it. Then, seeking to sow more discord
and remove a possible threat, she stole the brick from
the castle. The objects theft not only enraged the duke,
but also made him suspicious of Jekk. Because Jekk is
a friend of Sir Isteval, the duke also considers Isteval to
be potentially responsible.
On the evening of the day the characters arrive
in Daggerford, Pencheska has Alven, whom she has
enthralled, take the Bloke to Harpshield Castle. She
accompanies him part of the way, until they meet an
orc band Wartsnak sends after Baazka informs him of
Pencheskas plan.
The aftermath can be seen in the adventure.
6
Route, where his ranch used to be. Kelson Darktreader,
Vossans friend and the dukes Master of the Hunt, has
left town with Sir Isteval and Darfin Floshin, taking a
couple scouts to investigate.
Intelligence (History or Nature) DC 10: The wilder-
ness between the Waterdeep outpost of Zundbridge
and the Floshin Estate, to the edge of the Ardeep
Forest, is usually safe. Its popular hunting territory for
Waterdhavian nobles.
Intelligence (History) DC 15: House Phylund of
Waterdeep was famous for organizing exotic hunts in
the Ardeep Forest and capturing creatures for the Field
of Triumph, Waterdeeps arena. The family had a keep
they called a lodge in the western Ardeep, but they
abandoned it when their fortunes waned.
Orc Raids: A human militia scout named Ledoris
mentions orcs are raiding outlying communities and
encroaching on the Delimbiyr Route in the highlands
east of the Floshin Estate. Ledoris knows his mentor,
Filarion Filvendorson, helped some treasure hunters
plan an expedition to that region a few tendays ago.
Intelligence (History) DC 10: Some of the region north
of the Delimbiyr Route and east of the Floshin Estate
comprises what is known locally as the Harpshield
Lands. It is thought to be the domain of a seat once
ruled from Harpshield Castle, which is a famous ruin
in the southeastern arm of the Ardeep Forest.
Intelligence (History) DC 20: Harpshield Castle was
the seat of power for a human kingdom that hoped to
survive the fall of Delimbiyran, also called the King-
dom of Man. Delimbiyarn was itself a sad successor to
Phalorm, which was an alliance that included elves,
dwarves, and humans. The kingdom that built Harp-
shield Castle fell to the drow.
Meeting Jekk
Jekk is a burly dwarf with bushy brown hair and a
trimmed beard. His armor is elaborately crafted stud-
ded dragon leather with green and gold accents, and
a few green gems set into it. He carries a dwarven
greataxe that is similarly appointed. Jekks girdle has a
buckle of gold and silver shaped like a dwarf face and
set with green spinels for eyes. A simple gold loop often
hangs from one or both of his ears.
The dwarf is happy to talk with fellow adventurers,
especially if theyre buying the beer. Given his back-
ground, Jekk was fascinated with the Delimbyr Bloke
when he first saw it during a visit to the ducal castle
with Sir Isteval. He suspects the Bloke is a dwarven reli-
gious icon.
Jekk tried to borrow Bloke from the duke, and even
offered to buy it for a considerable sum. The duke
refused, but he allowed Jekk to commission a copy.
Alven Gissen, a sculptor working on Morninglow Tower
for Luc Sunbright, made Jekk a plaster replica. Then, a
few days later, the original went missing.
Duke Maldwyn questioned Jekk and searched Sir
Istevals house, where Jekk is staying. Its clear to Jekk
that the duke suspects him, but his and Istevals repu-
tation prevents the duke from taking drastic action.
Nevertheless, Jekk plans to leave for Firehammer Hold,
along with a few companions, the morning after the
characters arrive. He hopes to show the Bloke copy to
dwarf priests there to learn what the stone is and why
someone might steal it. He hopes the trip will take no
more than two tendays.
Jekk knows that Alven Gissen is well paid for his
work on Morninglow Tower, Amaunators temple. The
sculptor has a room at the Silver Flood Inn. (Alven
cannot be found at the temple or the inn this night. This
fact alarms no one until the next day.)
A New Day
The next day, the characters have the chance to follow
up on previous events.
Jekks Departure
Jekk leaves Daggerford for Firehammer Hold early in
the morning. He and his small party of warriors depart
after a hearty farewell breakfast at dawn in the River
Shining Tavern.
Jekk Ironfist
7
Rumor Follow-up
Characters can meet with people to follow up on the
rumors. If youre playing this adventure as part of D&D
Encounters and have not yet handed out the maps from
the play kit, you can give each player one of those maps
when an NPC gives such a map to the characters.
Contact with Julkoun: Ballick, the gnome tailor at
the Decorated Man, can confirm that he hasnt received
goods from Julkoun. Most shipments he receives come
early. A human customer mentions that, yesterday at
evening prayer, she overheard Hadeshah, the priestess
of Harvest House, sending one of her assistants to talk
to Sherlen Miller about Julkoun.
Hadeshah readily reveals that, within the last two
days, almost all the homing pigeons from the temple in
Julkoun arrived, with no messages attached, in Harvest
House. Hadeshah sees the f locks staggered arrival as
an alarming omen. She used a speak with animals ritual
yesterday, but the birds could tell her only that their
keeper let them go and they didnt see him again. Some
pigeons were shot with arrows while f lying away.
Gnoll Attacks: Kelson Darktreader is out of town,
traveling with Sir Isteval. No further information can
be gained at this time.
Grengel: If the characters fail to visit Sherlen Miller
before noon, and Grengel survived at the gate, news of
Grengels suicide has started to spread in the town. The
warrior hanged himself sometime last night.
Orc Raids: Filarion Filvendorsonfound at his
home, on the drill field training scouts, or in the Lady
Luck Tavernconfirms he helped organize an expedi-
tion to Harpshield Castle more than a month ago. The
treasure seekers hoped to find a hidden vault from
the times of the Kingdom of Man. This hidden trove is
thought to be in the castle cellars or dungeons.
Filarion knows the explorers also prepared for
fighting gricks, which are rumored to infest the under-
ground areas of the ruins. Orcs had also been seen in
the area. The retired thief assumes the treasure hunters
met an unfortunate end, or he says with a shrug and a
wry grin, they swindled him out of his cut.
Filarion has a map of the region. If the characters are
willing to come to his house, he can show them the area
and the ruins. Hes willing to give the map to the char-
acters if they ask for it.
Sherlen and Grengel
At the jail, Sherlen broods over Daggerfords problems.
Grengel: If Grengel survived at the gate, Sherlen
questioned him then left him locked in a cell until the
duke decided his fate. But Grengel hanged himself, as
Sherlen found when she checked on him this morning.
Before noon, only Sherlen, the duke, and a page Sherlen
sent to the duke know of Grengels passing.
Sherlen recalls Grengel as a quiet young man who
seemed kind of soft. After the incident at the gate, he
claimed he heard a female voice in his head that told
him to shoot. He tried not to, but it was as if his body
ignored him and instead heeded the voice. The voice
seemed familiar to him, but malevolent.
In all, Grengel was horrified at his actions and
wanted to make amends. Sherlen is shocked he killed
himself, since he seemed sincerely prepared to face the
consequences when she left him last night. He had no
visitors and has no relatives, although he has friends
among the militia. Sherlen suggests the militia regulars
might know more about Grengel than she does. The
best place to talk to the regulars is the drill fieldsee
the Meeting Natyssa section for more.
Julkoun: An evening visit from one of Hadeshahs
acolytes, combined with Sherlens knowledge of the
rumors about Julkoun, has the militia captain con-
cerned. She openly suggests the characters should go to
Julkoun to investigate. If the characters killed Grengel,
doing such service for Daggerford makes some amends
and gives folks who cared about Grengel time to cool
off. In any case, she expressed her concerns to the duke
yesterday evening, and Maldwyn is willing to pay mer-
cenaries to look into the situation (25 gp per character).
Sherlen doesnt object if the characters decide to
pursue another lead. She reminds them that the duke
isnt paying for that work, though. If the characters
agree to help Daggerford in any way, she also gives
them a map of the region, saying, Sir Isteval gave me
this to help out those who are helping us.
The Dukes Search
When they leave the jail, the characters hear a racket
and see a crowd down the Horse Way to the south.
Under the gaze of Duke Maldwyn on horseback, ducal
soldiers are searching the shanties for the Delimbiyr
Bloke. The crowd is mostly tenants whom the duke
has brief ly forced out of their homes. Maldwyn can
be heard shouting, I dont care if these people have to
stand here all day, I want the Bloke back!
Also present are Curran Corvalin and Lady Morwen,
the dukes sister, both of whom try to calm the duke.
Darrondar Gweth, the priest of Tempus, watches with
contempt from the door of his home. Maldwyn gives
them only baleful glares until Lady Morwen says the
Bloke is just an old stone, and some murmuring and
soft laughter comes from the crowd.
Maldwyn becomes enraged, saying, This theft is
an affront, and none of you will make light of it! What
has been stolen must be returned, and the thieves pun-
ished, or Ill have all you vagabonds expelled from my
domain by force! Perhaps youll learn some gratitude
outside of my protection!
When the search turns up nothing, the duke storms
back to his castle with Morwen.
8
9
10
Meeting Natyssa
Pencheska, in the form of Natyssa, can be linked to two
people of interest in Daggerford.
Alven Gissen: If the characters look for Alven
Gissen, he cant be found.
At Morninglow Tower, Luc Sunbright is peeved
because Alven didnt show up for work this morning.
While talking, the priest shows the characters incom-
plete work in the temple. Luc knows Alven isnt at the
Silver Flood Inn, either, because the priest sent an assis-
tant to fetch the sculptor.
Searching Alvens room turns up little. If he left
town, he did so without much of his property and only
a portion of his money (a coffer in his room contains 2
gp, 35 sp, and 96 cp). Connar and Ganfar, the owners
of the Silver Flood, can confirm that Alvens rent is paid
up for a few tendays.
While talking about Alven, Connar off handedly
says aloud, Come to think of it, I didnt see his girl,
Natyssa, yesterday evening, either. Seems strange theyd
leave with the roads so dangerous. Connar and Ganfar
identify Natyssa as a courtesan who has stayed at the
Lizards Gizzard for a couple tendays now, although
she occasionally stays with someone in the Silver Flood
and is a recent regular in the tavern here. Connar says,
Shes a nice lady. Dont blame her that shes reluctant
to leave, what with all thats happening around here.
And with the money to be had, says Ganfar, elbow-
ing Connar in the ribs.
Grengel: If the players ask among the militia, the
regulars are tight-lipped. Given what happened with
Grengel, it takes a successful DC 10 Charisma (Per-
suasion) check to get anyone talking. If the characters
killed Grengel, this check is made with disadvantage,
unless the characters make a good case for needing
more information. Although Grengel was quiet, the
others liked him. He spent a lot of his free time in the
Lady Luck Tavern, and he was a killer at lanceboard.
Ashli, a female militia member then says, sadly, He
became a lot less fun when he started spending time
with that tavern girl, Natyssa. A character who suc-
ceeds on a DC 10 Wisdom (Insight) check can tell by
Ashlis manner and body language that she was fond of
Grengel and dislikes Natyssa. Ashli knows that Natyssa
usually stays at the Lizards Gizzard when she isnt
being paid to sleep somewhere else.
Natyssa: When the characters know to look for
Natyssa, they can find her at the Lizards Gizzard. The
proprietor, Sasha, fetches Natyssa, who is an attractive,
well-fed young human with dark hair and differently
colored eyes (one brown and one blue). She has nice
clothes and simple bronze jewelry. Also, shes the succu-
bus Pencheska in disguise.
Alven: Pencheska pretends to have no idea where
Alven is. She was planning to go to the Silver Flood to
see him this evening. When she hears Alven is missing,
she says, shocked, I dont know why he would leave or
where he would go. Hes from Waterdeep, but he still
has a lot of work to do here. And the road is so danger-
ous these days.
Grengel: Pencheska feigns shock at Grengels actions
at the gate, saying he was always so gentle. If news
of Grengels death is out, or the characters mention it,
Pencheska affects the sadness one might express for
the passing of a fond acquaintance. She says he rarely
talked about himself, so she didnt know him well.
Venturing Forth
When the characters are ready, they can leave Dagger-
ford, likely for Harpshield Castle or Julkoun. Refer to
the section appropriate to the site they choose. Use the
region map and the Wilderness Adventuring rules in
the DM Guidelines as aides for playing out the trip.
DYNAMIC SITES
As presented, the adventure sites are staged to portray
the world and story, and to show the usual habits of a
sites creatures. You are free to change these situations
to suit your preferences and the needs of your game,
even during play. You can add or subtract monsters,
and change where adversaries are and how they act.
For instance, Thegger Grynn could be in the Phylund
cellars creating undead, or Shalendra Floshin might
wander her estate with her guardians. It is especially
fitting to change how some creatures act when they
become aware of intruders. For example, if her familiar
warns her, Shalendra might start searching her home,
hoping to confront the party.
Another aspect of this adventures staging is that the
sites are intended to be explored in two play sessions,
or about four hours of play. Combined with the goal
of portraying a world rather than a series of discrete
challenges, this staging means the monster groups
are not intended to be consistently challenging. Some
encounters should seem easy, especially if the play-
ers use clever tactics. A few of the enemies and enemy
groups are presented to be a serious threat with fitting
rewards, but even these foes are not and should not be
immune to skilled play.
11
DAGGERFORD
Daggerford, a relic of an earlier age, stands beside the
Delimbiyr River. The walled village with its central
keep ref lects its origin as the feudal seat of a lord within
a much larger kingdom. Its customs and laws are hold-
overs from that time.
Rule is hereditary, and dukedom goes to the first-
born male. Anyone living in the lands claimed by
Daggerford pays taxes to the duke in coin and goods.
All able-bodied people also serve turns in the dukes
army and must be ready to answer his call to arms,
unless they pay scutage, buying their way out of ser-
vice. Scutage, in turn, grants the duke funds to pay
for full-time soldiers and guards, whom the duke
uses to enforce law and custom. Those customs and
laws include the guilds that control day-to-day affairs
through a council of self-important busybodies.
Despite its small size, Daggerford is an important
hub for trade. The Delimbiyr River becomes shallow at
Daggerford (thus the ford in its name), so boat traffic
from the east has to stop. This traffic meets with cara-
vans traveling north or south on the Trade Way. Thus
goods, business, and taxes enrich what might otherwise
be considered a petty, rural fiefdom.
Local Notables
People particularly pertinent to this adventure are
described here, roughly in order of appearance.
Sir Isteval
A former adventurer and Purple Dragon Knight of
far-off Cormyr, Sir Isteval is living out his retirement
in Daggerford (area 10). Believing that the kingdom
of Cormyr was a light to the world, a shining exam-
ple of everything that a nation should be, he fought
boldly against the forces of chaos and evil wherever
they threatened the stability of his home realm. As
his power grew, he assembled several different groups
of like-minded adventurers to help spread the vision
of Cormyrs glory into the Western Heartlands. His
former companions are spread up and down the Heart-
lands and the North, from Cormyr to Baldurs Gate and
the Moonsea to Icewind Dale.
In a fateful battle against an ancient green dragon,
Isteval suffered a grievous wound to his leg that has
never fully healed. His wounded leg means that Iste-
vals greatest quests are now behind him, but he has
never lost his vision of Cormyr as it should bea
beacon and bastion against encroaching darkness.
Isteval believes that Cormyrs greatest challenge is fast
approaching, and unless its scheming nobles and cor-
rupt knights and wizards can pull together in unity, the
nation is in danger of being conquered by its enemies.
Isteval is a paladin of Amaunator, but he views the
god in an outmoded light as Lathander, the god of dawn
and new beginnings. In these days of chaos, Isteval sees
the birth pangs of a new age, and he believes against all
evidence and reason that it will bring unprecedented
peace and prosperity. Many trials yet lie ahead, but
Isteval is convinced that at the end of his journey is a far
fairer place.
Although he is no longer able to fight as he did in his
youth, Isteval seeks to bring together a new, great com-
pany of brave souls to carry on his legacy, preserving his
vision for future generations.
Isteval is a slender and tawny-skinned human with
dark brown hair salted with gray. He often wears the
plate armor of a knight, although his left leg is braced
and he carries a walking stick as well as his greatsword.
His armor is decorated with the holy symbol of
Lathander, which some members of the church of
Amaunator might consider heretical.
Curran Corvalin
The half ling who looks after Fairfortune Hall claims
to be from Baldurs Gate and to have lucked into
his money when a relative died, he won a bet, he had
some investments come through, and he found a chest
of jewels that someone had lostall on the same day.
Currans devotion to Tymora resulted, and his move
Sir Isteval
12
to Daggerford came about because, he says, Money is
harder to hold onto in Baldurs Gate. Although Curran
is a priest of sorts, he is no cleric and possesses no magi-
cal powers.
People dont begrudge the half ling his wealth and
leisurely life, since hes a jolly fellow as generous as the
Hardcheese half lings of the Happy Cow Tavern. Each
year at Midsummer, he helps fund the towns celebra-
tion, striving to make each one more magnificent than
the last. If hes not in the shrine during the day, or help-
ing folks down on their luck, its a likely bet that Curran
is in the Lady Luck Tavern.
Sherlen Miller
The commander of the Daggerford militia and consta-
ble of the town, Sherlen Miller strives every day to live
up to her namesake, a great hero of Daggerford, Sherlen
Spearslayer. Sherlen considers it an honor to serve in
the same role that Spearslayer did a hundred years ago.
Her different roles require disparate aspects of Sher-
lens personality. As commander of the militia, Sherlen
is responsible for teaching townsfolk basic combat tech-
niques. Shes happy as a trainer, willing to school fellow
warriors in advanced tricks. As constable, she mediates
disputes and looks after the dukes interests, a role in
which she is much less comfortable.
Sherlen is a young human woman of strong build,
with short brown hair and green eyes. She typically
wears studded leather armor and is rarely seen without
a spear, which she carries in honor of her namesake.
Jekk Ironfist
Jekk Ironfist realized the significance of his last name
only recently. Like his shield dwarf father, he was a
gladiator in Hillsfars arena. His father, Kellack, was
known as Killer Ironfist, because of his name and
because he fought with a black-iron cestus.
Sir Isteval and the rest of the Company of the Sunlit
Sea freed Jekk from the arena (too late for Kellack). Jekk
fought beside them until the group disbanded.
With time to contemplate his life, Jekk looked into
how his father had come to be a gladiator. Jekk dis-
covered that Ironfist was not just a moniker but also
the name of a dwarf clan. Fortuitously for Jekk, that
clan had put down roots near Daggerford, the home of
Isteval. With help from locals, Jekk seeks to learn more
about the dwarves he believes to be his ancestors. So
far, hes learned that the House of Stone and Fireham-
mer Hold likely have some ties to the Ironfist clan.
Filarion Filvendorson
Filarion Filvendorson is Kelson Darktreaders half
brother, born to and raised by a different mother. He
is a nephew to Darfin Floshin. Filarion, a wood elf, is
close to neither Darfin nor Kelson.
Filarion disappeared from Daggerford for many
years in search of his father, Filvendor, but the death of
Elorfindar drew him back. With Filvendor presumed
dead, Filarion had hoped for inheritance. However,
except for a few keepsakes and special items, Darfin
was the sole heir. In an attempt to bridge the gap
between them, Darfin recently purchased the house
where Filarion once lived and gave it to his nephew, but
Filarion has so far been more resentful than grateful.
Filarion was trained as a thief. To win a few friends
and make some extra money, he trains guard and
militia members in stealth skills and scouting. He also
provides aid to adventurers in the area.
Pencheska (Natyssa)
Pencheska, a succubus, is a Thayan agent in Dagger-
ford. She is free to act on her own unless she receives a
direct command (usually by magical means) from Tarul
Var, her lich master. Pencheska uses her capabilities to
cause problems in the town.
Sometimes she perpetrates surreptitious acts in the
guise of another person, such as when she took the form
of a nondescript human woman to steal the Delimbiyr
Bloke. Most often, she uses her powers of seduction and
Pencheska
13
domination to cause others to behave chaotically. Her
plan is to ruin as many of the people who can be of use
in the coming war as possible.
Her preferred form is that of Natyssa, an attractive
human courtesan who travels with caravans along the
Trade Way. As Natyssa, Pencheskas appearance is very
similar to her true form. Trapped in town like other
refugees, Natyssa has even caught the dukes eye.
Duke Maldwyn Daggerford
Maldwyn, the duke of Daggerford, is a selfish, arro-
gant man far more interested in being respected and
admired than he is in ruling the region. He enjoys the
pleasures accorded to him by his station, considering
himself a connoisseur of fine food and wine. Unlike
many of his forebears, he has never had an adventure
and has no interest in facing such terrible danger.
The duke is a handsome human of not quite middle
age. He dresses in the finest clothing, made from exotic
cloths imported from around the world. Maldwyn bears
the traditional weapon of the dukes of Daggerford, a
f lame tongue sword named Lawf lame. The blade is said to
have a mind and personality all its own.
Lady Morwen Daggerford
Duke Maldwyns older sister, Lady Morwen, is a stern
and serious human woman, less outwardly amiable
but more noble at heart than her selfish brother. Few
people in Daggerford know her well, although she often
trains alongside the militia and regularly pays visits to
the shrine of Tempus. Those who have seen beneath her
gruff exterior have become convinced that she is a born
leader who would be a better ruler than Maldwyn.
Morwen would never say so, but she and many
others feel that Daggerford should abandon the out-
moded convention of primogeniture and allow Morwen
to take her brothers place. Recognizing her compe-
tence, and perhaps seeking to keep her from agitating
for his title, Maldwyn has appointed Morwen his
Master of Arms, which gives her military command of
the castle. The title keeps Morwen content, for now.
Lady Morwens brown hair has gone prematurely
white, but her face looks younger than her forty-odd
years. She wears leather or even heavier armor as often
as she does the finery appropriate to her station.
Kelson Darktreader
Grandson of Elorfindar Floshin and a nephew to
Darfin, Kelson Darktreader is a half-elf approaching
two hundred years of age. He has served as Master of
the Hunt to generations of Daggerford dukes. No one
in Daggerford knows the Misty Forest and High Moor
better than Kelson.
The Huntmaster is taciturn, never using two words
where one will do. His long hair is silver and his face
shows the weight of years. He is still spry, however, lead-
ing hunts and taking rangers out into the wilds to teach
them the secrets of forests, hills, and moors.
Sir Darfin Floshin
Darfin Longwalker Floshin inherited two heavy bur-
dens from his gold elf father, Elorfindar: his desire to
see a new kingdom of Phalorm, and the guardianship
of a place of special magic.
In his youth, Darfins father witnessed the founding
of Phalorm, the three-crowned kingdom of the elves of
Ardeep, dwarves of Dardath, and humans of Delimbi-
yran. This strongly allied realm also had large gnome
and half ling populations, making it a beacon of accep-
tance and civilization in an often uncivil time.
For nearly a century, Phalorms humans, elves,
dwarves, gnomes, and half lings fought shoulder to
shoulder against orcs, goblinoids, and worse threats in
the North. But that period came to a catastrophic con-
clusion. While aiding a human kingdom against an orc
horde, the entire army of Phalorm was swept from the
face of Faern by a lich named Iniarv. Few in the North
but the eldest elves now realize it, but when folk speak
Duke Maldwyn Daggerford
14
of the Mere of Dead Men to the north of Waterdeep, the
dead they mention were the f lower of Phalorm.
The elves of Ardeep considered their brief experi-
ment in alliance with humans and dwarves a failure.
They left for Evermeet, abandoning Phalorm and caus-
ing the dwarves to do the same. A culture that had
lasted for human generations was suddenly over, and at
the worst possible time.
Elorfindar did not leave, however. He could not.
Duty bound him to the Ardeep Forest. The House of
Long Silences, a portal nexus that the elves used to
travel to Evermeet, required a guardian. But even had
Elorfindar the opportunity to leave, he would not have
done so. He believed so much in the alliance of goodly
races that less than ten years after the birth of his son
Darfin, he led the effort to create a new Phalorm. He
hoped elf refugees from another fallen realm would
resettle Ardeep Forest and work with the dwarves of
the Forlorn Hills and the humans of Delimbiyran.
Young Darfin watched his father attempt to knit this
realm together, and he watched his fathers efforts fail.
Over the next five centuries, Elorfindar and Darfin
saw the potential for a new Phalorm slip away with
the splintering of Delimbiyran and dissolution of the
nearby dwarf realms. Even the successor states of
Delimbiyran gradually vanished, leaving behind noth-
ing but ruins and the fortified town of Daggerford, with
its ruler still called a duke because once Daggerford
was held in fealty to a king.
Throughout this time, Lord Elorfindar Floshin aided
and advised the rulers of Daggerford, often with the
help of Darfin. Much of the credit for Daggerfords
success can be laid at the feet of these two elves. The
Floshin elves also continued to guard the House of Long
Silences. This structure in the Ardeep Forest was a relic
of ancient elven high magic and a means of accessing
an extraplanar nexus connected to elven portals all
over the world. Elorfindar Floshin guarded it out of a
sense of duty to the elven people and to all who dwelt
around the Ardeep Forest.
Long ago, elves of Elorfindars line were gold-elf
supremacists, and they did terrible things in the name
of their people. A few decades before Elorfindar died,
this threat rose anew and attempted to gain control of
the portal nexus, necessitating its destruction. Elorfin-
dar spent the last years of his life studying what magic
remained in the House of Long Silences, once again
trying and failing to rebuild what time had taken away.
Upon Elorfindars death, Darfin, as the first born,
inherited the Floshin Estate. Accustomed to years-long
journeys to distant lands while his father lived, Long-
walker now feels tied down. He is uncertain what to
do with the legacies hes inherited. Duke Maldwyn
does not seek or trust his advice, and the House of Long
Silences has been quiet for nearly a century. Darfin
takes some consolation from that fact that his sister
Shalendra has returned. Due to some disagreement
she had with Elorfindar, Darfin had not seen her in
decades, but he now hopes they can honor their fathers
memory together.
Shalendra Floshin
Darfins sister Shalendra (pictured with Darfin and
Jekk on the cover) recently returned to the area. Sha-
lendra and Elorfindar had some disagreement long ago,
but she made her tearful return, she claims, as soon as
she heard of her fathers passing. In an atonement of
her own, she promised Darfin to continue their fathers
work. Having studied portal magic in Evermeet while
she was away, despite first being a warrior, she brings a
wealth of knowledge that Darfin cannot match. At least,
thats what she has led Darfin to believe.
Shalendra has kept many secrets from her brother.
His sisters disagreement with their father was over
Elorfindars relationships with human lovers. Shalen-
dra has long harbored resentment over being tied to
human-ruled lands. Humans ruling in the North after
the fall of elves became a source of bitterness for her.
While in Evermeet, Shalendra met members of Eldreth
Veluuthra, a centuries-old group of elf supremacists
dedicated to wiping humanity out and reestablishing
the elven empires of old.
Shalendra only recently revealed herself to Darfin,
but she has been nearby ever since Elorfindars death,
studying the remaining magic of the House of Long
Silences and Elorfindars efforts to revive the portals.
Shalendra seeks to restore the nexus and give it to
Eldreth Veluuthra, but she found she lacked the magi-
cal power to do so alone.
Thats where Baazka comes in.
Baazka discovered Shalendra as she was investigat-
ing her fathers work in Ardeep Forest. Drawn to her
bitterness and burgeoning evil, he managed to infiltrate
her mind. Baazka inf luenced Shalendra to approach
the Red Wizards and make a deal. They could use the
power of the nodes of Elemental Evil to reconstruct the
nexus and thereby gain a means of sending their armies
all over the North and beyond. In return, they could
grant Shalendra (playing the part of a dispossessed and
disgruntled heir) rule over the region around Ardeep
Forest once they controlled the Sword Coast. The Red
Wizards believed her story, while Shalendra thinks she
can take control of the portal network once the Thayans
help rebuild it.
In truth, Baazka is using Shalendra as one of a few
contingency plans against what he sees as the inevitable
treachery of the Red Wizards. If Szass Tam fails to keep
his promise to restore Baazka to f lesh, the devil plans to
use Shalendras connections to Eldreth Veluuthra and
the elves of Evermeet to turn the portal network into a
means for them to attack Thay. If the Thayans do hold
to their word, Shalendra is disposable.
15
Tyndal Bridge
Approaching Daggerford from the south, visitors cross
Tyndal Bridge, a low stone structure named after the
hero of a local legend that tells about the founding of
the town. A boy named Tyndal supposedly fought off
lizardfolk at the ford using only a dagger, hence the
name of the settlement. Darfin Floshin knows this tale
is no legend. He can remember when Tyndal, having
grown to manhood and married the daughter of the
areas ruler, took the title of duke and built Daggerford
atop the ruins of an earlier castle.
Tannery
West of Daggerford, atop a low hill, stands the tannery.
The towns Tanners Guild used to do its work on the
open field alongside the caravan grounds, and many
shallow depressions in the field reveal where half-bur-
ied soaking tuns once stood. Generations ago, a sickness
that spread from caravan merchants into the town was
blamed on the stinking air from the industry. After
that, the tannery moved to the drafty structure on the
hill. Eastward winds still carry the tannerys stink, but
the towns general odor has improved a great deal.
Caravan Grounds
This muddy field is filled with wagons and tents in all
seasons but winter. While caravan masters stay at the
inns within the walls and do trade in the marketplace,
their wagon drivers and guards camp in the field. This
makes the caravan grounds a melting pot of people
from up and down the Sword Coast. Now, the caravan
grounds are packed with refugees forced to camp out-
side the town.
Moat
The steep-sided moat around Daggerford used to be the
dumping place for the towns trash and waste. In any
year that the river did not f lood and f lush it, the Water-
mens Guild opened channels to the Delimbiyr to wash
the worst away. Not long ago, the duke ordered an end
to the practice of dumping into the moat. Watermens
Guild members now wheel wagons of waste not needed
by the tannery to Tyndal Bridge and dump it over the
side. This practice makes for a poor welcome to travel-
ers from the south, but its an improvement over the
town being ringed in its own refuse.
Town Gates
Three gates allow passage through the twenty-foot-high
walls of Daggerford. The Caravan Gate (area 2), which
opens from the caravan grounds, is the most imposing,
with a set of huge ironbound doors twenty feet wide
and sixteen feet tall. The much more modest Farmers
Gate (area 11) opens from the fields to the north and is
so named because it is the gate that farmers use to bring
in produce and livestock. The gate that opens from the
river is called the River Gate (area 21). Its slightly larger
than the Farmers Gate to allow boats to be carried and
dragged through to and from Sullerton Shipbuilders.
Gates are customarily left open day and night unless
the town is threatened. Guards stationed at the gates
are lax in their duties, taking note of new faces but
rarely challenging anyone. Daggerford is a small town
where everyone tends to know everyone else. Unfamil-
iar folk mean travelers with coin, and thats always a
welcome sight.
Accommodations
Daggerford offers a handful of inns that quickly fill
to capacity during busy trade times and festival days.
During busier periods, some townsfolk offer accom-
modations in their homes or businesses to visitors who
seem trustworthy, renting kitchens, shop f loors, and
other uncomfortable places to sleep at a steep price.
They offer their own beds at even higher costs.
River Shining Tavern
The River Shining Tavern (area 24) is a massive wooden
structure bearing the nickname of the Delimbiyr River,
and its owners use Delimbiyr as their family name.
Theyve long claimed that the tavern is the oldest build-
ing in the town, and that it was the place where Tyndal
lived while the first ducal castle was built. Its a story
that Darfin Floshin could decry as false, but hes spent
too many happy evenings in the tavern to disabuse the
locals of the notion. The fine old building looks the
part, at any rate.
The River Shining Tavern caters to those with
money: visiting nobles, wealthy merchants, and local
notables such as Darfin and Lady Belinda Anteos of
the Sword Coast Traders Bank. When the Council of
Guilds meets, it does so in the private dining chambers
of the River Shining to lend an air of importance to the
affair. Prices are high but the service and setting match,
so even those not of the upper crust go to the River
Shining when they have something special to celebrate.
The tavern offers several richly appointed rooms on
its second f loor, as well as three very expensive suites.
One of the suites is currently being rented by Hustil
Benzur, a Zhent posing as an agent working on behalf
of Amnian investors. During dinners and conversa-
tions with various farmers and business owners hopeful
of an inf lux of cash, he looks for sources of potential
blackmail and business opportunities of which the
Zhentarim might take advantage.
16
Silver Flood Inn
The Silver Flood Inn (area 22) was established during a
short-lived silver rush in the Sword Hills a few decades
ago. It maintains this atmosphere with mining tools as
decorations and silver cutlery, cups, and plates in its
small breakfast room (actually all pewter). The building
has many small rooms suitable for one or two people,
and during busy times the breakfast room doubles as a
common room for sleepers at night.
The current innkeepers are two boisterous human
Northlanders, Connar Filvarson and Ganfar Redgrin.
Their arrival and acquiring of the inn is cause of consid-
erable gossip. During a nightlong celebration, they and
a handful of companions did so much damage to the
inn that the militia mustered to arrest them. Their com-
panions f led, but Connar and Ganfar instead offered
to repay the previous innkeeper. Their drunken pro-
posal was laughed at until they produced a rough-cut
diamond as big as a half lings thumb. The duke struck
a deal on behalf of the two parties, with the result that
the previous innkeeper became a rich man, the duke
got a beautiful new diamond ring, and the Northland-
ers became property owners.
The truth is that Connar, Ganfar, and their com-
panions were celebrating a successful raid on Tuern, a
diamond-producing island of dragon-worshiping North-
landers far to the north. The Tuerni are infamous for
their tireless pursuit of revenge, but on reaching Dag-
gerford, Connar, Ganfar, and friends believed theyd
come far enough south to enjoy their riches without
worry. They might even be right.
Any refugee who has enough coin to afford decent
shelter is staying in the Silver Flood.
The Lizards Gizzard
The wooden sign hanging outside the Lizards Gizzard
(area 29) depicts a young boy gutting a lizardfolk war-
rior with a dagger. This sign was a deliberate effort to
remind locals of the legend of Tyndal and ingratiate the
inns owner to the community. The effort initially back-
fired because the gruesome sign made folk think of
the potential bloodthirstiness of that owner, a half-orc
female named Sasha. However, Sir Isteval convinced
the duke and other folks of her worthiness.
The Lizards Gizzard serves no food or drink. The
large building is given over almost entirely to providing
places to stay, except that half of the first f loor serves
the inns side business as a laundry. Sasha is sympa-
thetic to outcasts and orphans, and her large staff
consists mostly of young women shes helping to get on
their feet after some misfortune. Sasha is good-natured
and grandmotherly, but townsfolk still worry about
her orcish heritage. She often says, Ill bite the head
off anyone who threatens one of my girls, and people
believe her.
Sashas soft heart is further evident in the fact that
she has provided a place for many refugees to stay. She
also lets them use the laundry. Sir Isteval has given
Sasha some money to help out the poorer refugees.
The Shanties
This collection of one- or two-room shacks serves as
long-term housing for transient people who can move
in for as long as they care to pay to stay. Usually inhab-
ited by merchants waiting out the winter or young
families finding their footing, more than half of the
shanties have been leased for two years by Calishite
humans who f led the genasi rule and warfare of their
homeland. The shanties owner, a human male named
Benthil Hugman, was uncertain of taking on foreign
renters, but to his surprise, theyve taken well to life in
Daggerford. With the help of Isteval and his erstwhile
adventuring companion Hadarr (also a Calishite and a
folk-hero in the shanties), the Calishites have managed
to find work. A few of them have even married locals.
Taverns
Four full-time taverns operate in Daggerford, which
might be three too many for the size of the community.
Travelers provide the necessary business. The ready
availability of ale in town means that only the farthest-
f lung farms bother to brew their own.
Happy Cow Tavern
The Hardcheese family of strongheart half lings has run
the Happy Cow Tavern (area 15), a homey alehouse, for
generations. The drink is cheap, the pace is slow, and
the talk is about farms and farming. The Hardcheeses
run a large dairy operation and own various pieces of
good farmland around Daggerford that they rent out
to tenants. These farms provide the tavern with the
cheeses that gave the half lings their family name and
the other simple staples served at the Happy Cow.
The Hardcheeses are well known for their generos-
ity, and they are happy to lend money to folk they know.
Their bar serves as a bank to most of the farmers of
the region, much to the consternation of Lady Belinda
Anteos of the Sword Coast Traders Bank. Its unknown
to all but the eldest Hardcheeses, but the secret of their
familys success isnt just good investments. The Happy
Cow stands over a dragons hoard buried there by the
taverns founder.
Curran Corvalin convinced the Hardcheeses to feed
refugees staying at the Lizards Gizzard. The half ling
priest has given some of his own money to this cause.
Lady Luck Tavern
The Lady Luck Tavern (area 17) is named after Tymora,
and it has built its reputation around those who take
risks. Inside, most of the first f loor is dedicated to a
17
taproom with second-f loor seating on balconies all
around it. At the center of this space stands a rough
stone pillar upon which rests the roof. Iron rungs are
set into the pillar so that individuals can climb and
mark it with symbols or messages dedicated to those
who have died in battle or disappeared on quests. The
rest of the tavern is decorated with shields, weapons,
and banners. Any toast given in the tavern must include
a libation to those who have fallen before us.
During the caravan season, the taverns female
human owner, Glenys, runs a roaring trade with clients
consisting mainly of caravan guards and other travelers.
Gambling occurs at all hours, with Glenys sponsoring
a big game on most evenings. Winter proves a quieter
time, when locals come for mulled wine and to play a
few hands of cards, lanceboard, or other table games.
Curran Corvalin spends most evenings here. He
pays to fill Tymoras Cup, a drink customarily set aside
on the bar for Lady Luck, in case she decides to drop in.
The Otters Run
The Otters Run (area 23) stands near the River Gate
and tends to be the first stop for anyone coming to Dag-
gerford by boat. If someone wants news from the east,
the Otters Run is the place to get it. An otters dried and
stretched pelt hangs beneath the taverns painted sign,
revealing that the taverns owner, a human male named
Davvy Harga, also doubles as a furrier. The name of the
tavern and its obvious connection to the owners side
business has resulted in otters being a rare sight on the
banks of the Delimbyr for leagues inland.
Daggerthrust Ales
Sturgin and Halla Brewer, the human couple that owns
Daggerthrust Ales (area 31), have devoted themselves to
the production of drink in new styles. Unlike the sweet,
dark ales that other locals make from barley, the Brew-
ers experiment with beers in the style of the famous
Golden Sands Brewery in Calimshan, as well as with
herbal ingredients such as heather from the High Moor
and hops specially imported from the south. Halla is a
Calishite, and her preference for the drink of her home-
land pushed her husband, a man with a long family
tradition of brewing, to try new things.
It took a while to win over the locals, but travelers
with more varied palates kept the business af loat while
Sturgin and Halla made their case with free samples
to inf luential folk. Now the release of a new brew is a
much-anticipated event. Daggerthrust Alesnamed in
honor of the legend of Tyndal and the sharper taste of
its beerssupplies the River Shining Inn, Lady Luck
Tavern, the Otters Run, and the castle with drink.
Businesses
Daggerford hosts several businesses, with the most
obvious being its three smithies. Other than the ducal
castle, theres hardly a place within the walls where
one cant hear the ring of hammer on anvil. Competing
businesses and individuals manage to profit in the town
thanks to its Council of Guilds, which sets prices and
adjudicates disputes. No one gets rich under the coun-
cils rule, but no one goes hungry either.
Guilds
The towns charter allows for a council to control affairs
in the dukes stead, and for centuries, the towns guild
leaders have been a part of it. It surprises some new-
comers that such a small community has guilds, but
many guilds have only a handful of members. Some,
such as the Watermens Guild, consist of a single busi-
ness. As with the guilds of large cities, the guilds here
regulate competition and set parameters for master-
and-apprentice and worker-employer relationships. But
the guilds of Daggerford feel more like families than
mere associations.
The guilds include the Smiths Guild, Merchants
Guild, Tanners Guild, Farmers Guild, Watermens
Guild, Rivermens Guild, Taverners Guild, Scriveners
Guild, Clothiers Guild, and the Carpenters Guild. The
guilds group together many associated occupations, so
innkeepers are part of the Taverners Guild, and the
Scriveners Guild includes those who work at the Sword
Coast Traders Bank. Many folk are members of more
than one guild, such as the owner of the Otters Run,
who is a taverner, a tanner (furrier), and a merchant.
The Guildmasters Hall (area 14) near the market-
place serves as a library of guild records, the offices
for guild leaders, and meeting halls for the guilds. The
guild system can bewilder some visitors, but Dagger-
ford folk take great pride in their traditions and use the
organizations to maintain a close-knit community. Out-
siders who are aware of the guilds can pay guild dues (2
gp) for access to facilities and members.
Dervals Smithy
Derval Ironeater ran Dervals Smithy (area 34), the
largest smithy in Daggerford, and served as guildmaster
of the Smiths Guild for generations. Recently, the
elderly dwarf died. Since his three children work as
stonemasons, his grandson Ignal Ironeater inherited.
Ignal had been Dervals proxy at guild meetings for
decades and thus assumed the role of guildmaster as
well as leader of the Ironeater familys business.
Dervals Smithy focuses its work on gear for the sol-
diers of Daggerford, turning out spear tips, arrowheads,
and studs for armor. Ignal and his apprentices also craft
fine armor and weapons in Dervals style, selling them
for high prices.
18
Cromachs Smithy
Established by a human blacksmith named Cromach
over a century ago, Cromachs Smithy (area 3) is now
owned and run by a dwarf named Tholvar Cragjaw, a
distant cousin of Derval Ironeater. Named for his jaw,
broken in battle years ago and never properly healed,
Tholvar finds it difficult to speak and is quite taciturn.
He mainly makes tools and home goods, and he serves
as the primary farrier and wheelwright for the town.
Jerdans Smithy
Jerdan Went, Daggerfords only human blacksmith and
owner of Jerdans Smithy (area 12), survives on the mar-
gins of the other smiths trade. He takes jobs the other
two are too busy for, doing a little bit of everything but
none of it as well as the two dwarves. Consequently, he
cant charge as much unless its a rush job. But Jerdan
has no one but himself relying on his income, so he
does well enough.
Millers Dry Goods
Bess Miller, younger sister of Sherlen Miller, runs Mill-
ers Dry Goods (area 38). She carries the name of her
trade and the traditional occupation of her family. The
human woman owns and runs three mills: one just out
of town to the north, another farther north amid the
farms to the west of the Floshin Estate, and the third
in Bowshot, a village to the south. Shes considered the
most eligible bachelorette among the humans in the
area. Many suitors have proposed marriage for roman-
tic and financial reasons, but Bess has always politely
declined. Her shop sells grain, f lour, and various goods
for the home.
Trade of the Tools
Old Ander, an elderly human and lovable eccentric,
buys and refurbishes old tools and broken furniture in
Trade of the Tools (area 39). In his rats nest of a shop,
folks can purchase, rent, or barter for just about any
implement or furnishing, from fishing nets to wash-
tubs to grappling hooks to egg whisks. If you need a
block-and-tackle for a few hours or your shears need
sharpening, Trade of the Tools is the place to go.
Helmicks Herbs and Oddments
The half-elf Helmick Howager specializes in import-
ing and foraging for spices, which he sells at Helmicks
Herbs and Oddments (area 40). He also picks up
crystals, strangely shaped roots, pretty bird feathers
basically anything he thinks looks mysticaland then
strings them together in pretty baubles made to ward
off bad dreams or win back a lover. The oddments are
harmless charms, but many a mage has found material
components hidden in Helmicks stock.
The Decorated Man
A rock gnome tailor named Ballick runs the Decorated
Man (area 16), living in the tailor shop with a large
extended family. Ballick is a minor illusionist, and he
uses spells to help show his customers what they might
look like in his expensive garments.
The Clean Chin
A shield dwarf female named Hunnett Honestone runs
the Clean Chin (area 9), a combination barber shop and
undertakers service, from a two-story building. The
first f loor, split into equal halves, serves her two busi-
nesses. The top f loor is her living quarters, which she
shares with her elderly mother, Ranna. Hunnet took
over the undertaker business when her father died, but
she kept her own vocation cutting and styling hair.
Gublins Cloth & Cordage
Gilly Gublin, the human owner of Gublins Cloth &
Cordage (area 13), supplies most of the cloth and rope
to the area, importing the finer types and setting his
prices low enough that few can match them. The top
f loor of his building is entirely given over to a long gal-
lery where rope is twined using special machines on
tracks, an innovation Gilly purchased from the High
House of Wonders in Baldurs Gate. The quality of his
rope is such that he exports it upriver.
Sullerton Shipbuilders
The building housing Sullerton Shipbuilders (area
30) has changed hands and names many times, but
its purpose has remained the same for over a century:
building boats for river travel. The current owners are
the Sullertons, a family of humans who include Wilma
Sullerton, matriarch of the clan and current leader of
the Carpenters Guild.
Recent troubles in the area have resulted in less log-
ging, leading to a dwindling of the Sullertons wood
supplies. Wilma is eager to push the Council of Guilds
to do something about it.
Sword Coast Traders Bank
A new institution in Daggerford, Sword Coast Traders
Bank (area 20) was eagerly encouraged by the duke.
It comes as an investment of Lady Belinda Anteos, a
daughter of the Anteos noble family in Waterdeep.
The plan is for the fortified building to serve as a place
where traveling merchants store profits and from which
locals might take loans.
The first part of the plan is working. Merchants
can deposit money in Daggerford and withdraw it in
Waterdeep and Baldurs Gate, with the information
about the deposit transferred through secret magical
means. However, locals prefer to rely on friends or the
Hardcheeses rather than to take money from the bank.
19
Religious Locales
People of Daggerford pay homage to many gods, but
four deities have long held greater importance in town
thanks to structures that have stood for generations.
Harvest House
Chaunteas temple (area 4), known locally as Harvest
House, is a large building with an open courtyard
in the middle, lush with plants. Its chief priest, the
human female Hadeshah, has three young assistants
to help her in the tasks of blessing fields and animal
husbandry. Hadeshah grew up in the small hamlet of
Gillians Hill, and she was accustomed to following her
faith at family farms. Shes never taken well to speaking
before large crowds or to daily life in town. When not
far afield helping a farmer through lambing or joining
a communal wheat harvest, she spends her time in the
relative quiet of the temple garden.
Morninglow Tower
A beautifully gilded structure, Morninglow Tower (area
18) is Daggerfords temple of Amaunator. Standing over
the rest of the town, it shines proudly on the hill next to
the outer walls of the ducal castle. The stone side that
faces the town is decorated with rosy stones and glit-
tering quartz, creating the image of a shining sun in
homage to Amaunator. That side is a facade, since the
eastern wall is open to the rising sun (and to the arrows
of defenders if the tower is ever taken during a siege).
Self-important and blustery Luc Sunbright leads
worship in the tower. The ducal family worships at this
temple, and Luc considers the dukes favor to be a mark
of distinction he has somehow earned, despite the fact
that dukes of Daggerford have worshiped here since
long before he was born. The priest is very class con-
scious, and farmers and merchants who come to rites at
this temple can find themselves brushed aside in favor
of wealthier folk.
Table of the Sword
A shrine to Tempus, Table of the Sword (area 26) stands
next to Daggerfords barracks (area 1). Both were built
after the last Dragonspear War, but only the barracks
has been maintained over the years. Priests of Tempus
have come and gone. The shrine, an open-sided hall of
thick wood pillars, is in need of repair.
Nearly everyone around Daggerford trains for battle,
but the need for that training is mercifully rare. The
Lady Luck Tavern also serves as an alternative place to
honor the fallen. To many in Daggerford, this Tempus
shrine seems superf luous and overly grim.
Darrondar Gweth leads the worship of Tempus at
the long table in the shrine each midday, when he raises
a horn of mead in honor of fallen warriors. At sunset, he
leads a handful of the faithful in song. Darrondar used
to be a soldier in Waterdeep, and he came to Dagger-
ford after an ill-fated skirmish left most of his company
dead. Although many priests of Tempus are interested
in stirring up war, Gweth is more devoted to honor-
ing the slain and giving warriors courage in battle.
His home adjacent to the drill field gives him many
opportunities to interact with soldiers, and hes slowly
winning people over.
Fairfortune Hall
A shrine to Tymora, Fairfortune Hall (area 28) was
never a main feature of the town. It was recently rebuilt
by Ironeater dwarves in grander style due to funding by
its current caretaker, Curran Corvalin.
Ducal Structures
The duke of Daggerford rules the town and the sur-
rounding lands. That authority is represented by the
castle, its structures, and the towns high walls.
Ducal Castle
The ducal castle (area 7) stands in the same spot as
Tyndals original wood fortification, rebuilt in stone by
the Ironeater clan when it came to Daggerford over a
century ago. The dungeons that worm through the hill
beneath it are even older. They are all that remains of
the Barony of Steeping Falls, once known as the Barony
of Blood.
A thousand years ago, a vampire named Artor
Morlin ruled the area, but his dark legacy has long
passed from history to myth. Even the elves of the
Floshin family know little about him. Secrets the vam-
pire lord left behind when he f led to Waterdeep might
still remain undiscovered.
The ducal gate leads to the town and is usually
open. Inside the castle courtyard are the dukes private
parade grounds, herb and fruit gardens, and the dukes
fortified manor. The castles larder is well stocked with
preserved food, enough for a years siege. About fifty
people live in the castle, including guards and servants.
Stables
Visitors and locals can shelter livestock in the stables
(area 25), but because the small herd kept for the duke
and the militia are cared for here, the duke virtually
owns the business. During the day, horses graze on
the commons around the castle or are taken out the
Farmers Gate for exercise and feeding farther afield.
A portly human male named Umbero Volin, originally
from Turmish, runs the stables. Once a trick rider in a
circus, Umbero settled in Daggerford after he sustained
injuries during a performance for the duke. The circus
he was part of was forced to leave him behind.
20
Walls and Towers
The walls of Daggerford (area 27) are ten feet thick and
twenty feet tall with a battlement walkway behind cren-
ellations. The towers, entered from the ground and the
walls, stand another ten feet taller than the walls and
have bartizans at their outer corners.
A curious feature of Daggerfords walls is Delfens
Tower (area 8). When the wizard Delfen first came to
Daggerford, this tower was under construction. He paid
the town well to take over the tower in exchange for
swearing to help protect Daggerford. This he did to the
best of anyones reckoning, until his disappearance.
Delfen was presumed dead a century ago. The dukes
guards reclaimed the tower, loading all the wizards
goods into crates they stored on the ground f loor. Those
on duty in the tower frequently complained of unex-
plained lights and eerie noises, but nothing came of
such phenomena.
Then Delfen returned, looking not a day older.
Darfin Floshin and other long-lived citizens confirmed
it was Delfen, but the mage would not explain his
absence. He again offered a large sum and his oath for
the tower. This time he agreed to terms for dispersal of
his goods if he disappears again.
Like the other towers, this one is three stories tall.
The top story is Delfens living quarters. He uses the
second story to meet guests, and teach and house stu-
dents he takes on. The first story contains a stable for
his riding mule and is used for storage.
The towers arrow loops are small, since theyre
intended to allow Delfen to target spells. The windows
facing the town are larger, providing a him a good view.
Cisterns
The squat stone cisterns (area 5) capture rainwater,
and the Watermens Guild takes water to them from
a spring to the northeast. The cisterns are a legacy of
a time when Daggerford was more frequently under
siege, providing a source of pure water for livestock
brought in from surrounding farms. Many people
prefer cistern water to that from the river or the well in
the marketplace, because they associate the spring that
is its source with Eldath, a god of nature. Using it for
cooking, ale making, and cleaning is supposed to bring
Eldaths blessing of peace and wellbeing.
Jail
The jail building (area 6) houses Sherlen Miller, an
office for her roles as town constable and militia com-
mander, and a couple cells. The cells rarely hold any
prisoners, except rowdies who need time to cool off
or sober up. Suspects of serious crimes are held in the
castle dungeons until trial. Less serious crimes are
handled according Council of Guilds laws, in which
imprisonment isnt used as punishment.
EVENTS IN DAGGERFORD
Each time the characters return to Daggerford, they
have a chance to interact with people and learn about
changes in the town and other adventure sites.
Many Meetings
By the time characters return from their first venture,
Sir Isteval, Kelson Darktreader, and Darfin Floshin
have returned, by boat, from a trip to Waterdeep.
Sir Isteval
Upon his return, Sir Isteval is first seen encouraging
and helping the refugees. Soon after, the knight invites
the characters to his home to offer them a meal, praise,
and support. From his own coffers, he doubles the
dukes offered reward for taking up missions to inves-
tigate the raiders. He starts his generosity by doubling
the partys reward for their first mission or paying 25
gp per character if no reward was offered. Those who
help Daggerford should at least eat well, he says.
If the characters have forgotten about talking to
Kelson Darktreader, Isteval points out that Kelson has
a theory about the gnolls raiding the Trade Way, and
might even send for the Huntmaster to join the meal.
Isteval believes the raiders are organized under some
greater evil, and any revelation of possible Red Wizard
involvement sets him on edge. He vows to keep an eye
on events in Daggerford to make sure nothing is further
undermining the town.
Isteval laments that Duke Maldwyn troubled Jekk
and searched Istevals home for the Delimbiyr Bloke.
Although Jekk is fascinated with the object, Isteval sees
it as little more than a curiosity. Isteval considers Mald-
wyn to be a petty man more concerned with the image
of his station than the duty of it. (Darfin, likely present
at such a gathering, agreessee the next section).
GAINING EXPERIENCE
Characters start the adventure at 2nd level. They then
gain levels as follows.
3rd Level: When the party returns from Julkoun, the
characters advance to 3rd level.
4th Level: When the party returns from Firehammer
Hold, the characters advance to 4th level.
5th Level: After the party deals with the fiends
during the adventures conclusion, the characters
advance to 5th level.
21
Darfin Floshin
When the characters first arrive back in Daggerford,
Darfin Floshin is spending a few days in town tying up
loose ends. His trip to Waterdeep was partially to help
Isteval and partially to buy reagents for himself and
Shalendra. The characters might meet him when he
spends time with Isteval, bemoaning the lack of nobility
in the current Daggerford duke. Longwalker is leisurely
about his trips. He heads back to his estate about the
time the characters are exploring Firehammer Hold.
Kelson Darktreader
If the characters talk to him, Kelson Darktreader has
a theory on the gnolls troubling the Trade Way. He,
Isteval, and Darfin Floshin made the trek to Waterdeep
through the wilderness along the road. Kelson and two
of his scouts reconnoitered the damage; their trip to
Waterdeep didnt allow more. Since Nandar Lodge is
little more than a ruined foundation, the Huntmaster
believes the gnolls are operating in or near Phylund
Lodgea ruined keep in the western Ardeep Forest.
Kelson can recount that, in his youth, he took
part in some of Lord Urtos Phylunds hunts. Wealthy
Waterdhavian nobles frequented the lodge then,
hungry for excitement and trophies. The object of such
hunts was often a fantastic creature the Phylunds had
captured and then released into the woods.
If the characters are interested, Kelson can tell them
the story of the lodge as it appears in the Phylund
Lodge sections introduction. A character who succeeds
on a DC 15 Intelligence (History) check doesnt need
Kelsons recollections to know the lodges story.
After Kelsons return from Waterdeep, the duke
assigns him the ridiculous (Kelson believes) task of
searching the countryside near Daggerford for those
who might have stolen the Delimbiyr Bloke. Kelson
uses the opportunity to train scouts.
Duke Maldwyn
A self-important man, Duke Maldwyn has little reason
to interact with the characters unless they return the
Delimbiyr Bloke to him (see the Return of the Bloke
sidebar). He otherwise takes minimal interest in the
missions Sir Isteval finds so vital. Maldwyn does, how-
ever, offer 25 gp per mercenary per job for such work,
concerned that he look good if Istevals concerns prove
to be valid.
Meanwhile, as part of her plan to undermine Dag-
gerford, Pencheska fosters a relationship with Maldwyn
that is likely to prove detrimental to the characters. See
the Fiendish Works section for more on her manipu-
lation of the duke.
Further Adventures
When the characters complete a couple ventures into
the Daggerford region, other events unfold.
Firehammer Hold
After the characters have spent at least three tendays
in and around Daggerford, and after they explore at
least two adventure sites, Isteval begins to worry about
Jekk. The paladin knows the dwarf planned to return in
two tendays. As the end of a month approaches, Isteval
begins to suspect something happened to his friend. He
asks the characters to go to Firehammer Hold to see if
they can find Jekk.
Floshin Estate
After the characters return from Firehammer Hold,
a very upset Darfin Floshin comes to Daggerford. He
was returning to his estate, but when he got within a
couple miles of it, he began to feel pain that grew more
excruciating as he neared. When he retreated, the pain
abated. While he remained nearby and investigated the
cause with some of his own magic, he found Galan, one
of his servants, near the road. Gnolls, elementals, and
undead had attacked the estate and taken it. No one
else had escaped.
RETURN OF THE BLOKE
If the characters return the Delimbiyr Bloke to the duke,
Maldwyn is suspicious of how the party acquired the
object. The story of finding it in the hands of a monster
in the ruins of Harpshield Castle just doesnt add up.
At first, he offers only reserved thanks for returning his
rightful property. After a day, perhaps with Istevals
influence, he invites the characters to the marketplace
and announces the Blokes recovery while presenting
the party with a golden key (100 gp). The key makes the
characters honorary citizens and entitles the party to
three days of living in town on the dukes graces (which
are limited to shelter and reasonable board).
The Blokes return ends Maldwyns decree against
the refugees entering the town. Life becomes better
for them, since they can at least buy food and take odd
jobs. Maldwyn also stops suspecting Jekk and Isteval of
spiriting the Bloke away. The duke even offers a private
apology full of self justification. The inhabitants of the
shanties receive no such contrition.
22
Desperate to know what happened at his home and
hopeful Shalendra and some servants might yet live,
Darfin asks for aid. Most concerned about Shalendra,
he carefully describes her, asking that she be rescued
if she lives. The characters recognize her immediately
when they encounter her at the estate.
Fiendish Works
As the characters unravel the web of evil in the area,
their enemies are not idle. This section describes what
the villains are up to throughout the adventure.
Baazka
In spirit form, Baazka occasionally comes to Daggerford
to speak with Pencheska. Once he learns of the party,
he also comes to observe them. The characters might
spot a raven or black cat eyeing them in a disconcert-
ing manner. Only the use of Divine Sense, detect good
and evil, or a similar ability or spell can detect the subtle
fiendishness Baazka imparts to his animal spies.
Baazka keeps tabs on the partys successes, and he
communes with Pencheska about these new enemies.
He does little to interfere until he suspects the char-
acters know how to find Bloodgate Keep. Then he
actssee the Concluding the Adventure section.
Pencheska
As Natyssa, Pencheska eventually makes a move on
Duke Maldwyn. Although he would normally scoff
at relations with such a woman, the duke is no match
for Pencheskas charms. Characters who keep tabs on
Natyssa learn, after about a month, that Maldwyn has
taken her as a lover. He keeps her in fine style in the
River Shining tavern. Natyssa is seldom in her suite,
however, spending most of her time at the dukes side.
Pencheskas inf luence is subtle but far from positive.
Maldwyn might engage in other tirades like the search
of the shanties, but hes more likely to take smaller
actions that undermine Sir Isteval or the characters.
For example, Maldwyn might refuse to pay his normal
reward for a successful mission.
In the end, Pencheska decides to kill two birds with
one stone. See the Concluding the Adventure section.
Concluding the Adventure
As soon as the characters think they have enough infor-
mation to seek Bloodgate Keep, the adventure draws
to its climax. It can do so even if the characters have
yet to explore all the adventure sites. If youre run-
ning this adventure as part of D&D Encounters, try to
conclude the adventure by May 7th so that players can
participate in the Launch Weekend event for the next
adventure, Dead in Thay.
Bloodgate Keep
By the end of the adventure, the characters should
know Bloodgate Keep exists and have means to find it.
Here are notes for bringing the information together.
Orcs of Harpshield Castle have a map that shows,
cryptically, Bloodgate Keeps location. The orcs
know the keeps significance, but they give that
information up only unwillingly.
Thayan gnolls of Phylund Lodge know the loca-
tion of Bloodgate Keep, but are as unlikely to give
the characters that information as the Harpshield
orcs. Further, Thegger Grynns spellbook has
notes on using his bowl as a navigation tool to find
the keep.
Nalifarn and his duergar know of Bloodgate Keep
and its general location. During his imprison-
ment, Jekk learned the same information.
Shalendra Floshin knows not only the exact
location of Bloodgate Keep, but she also knows
Baazkas story and what the Red Wizards intend
to do with the fortress.
Tarul Var bound Pencheska into Thayan service
in Bloodgate Keep. But she has no reason to tell
her enemies anything, since death on the Mate-
rial Plane means freedom to her. She might be
persuaded with the promise of release, though.
The Fiends
When the characters finally have enough information
to go to Bloodgate Keep, Duke Maldwyn invites them
to a private dinner to celebrate their victories and ser-
vice to Daggerford. The invitation is a trap. Pencheska
intends to make it look as if the characters attacked
the duke in his home. Charmed human guards bar the
doors to the dukes dining hall. Maldwyn, with Baazka
possessing him, and Pencheska fight the characters.
If the characters refuse the invitation, Maldwyn
and Pencheska instead find them wherever they are
in Daggerford. The pair isolates the party. Along with
charmed human guards, they then attempt to destroy
the characters.
When Maldwyn drops to half his hit points or fewer,
he regains enough willpower to throw Lawf lame toward
a character who can use it. Baazka then appears over
the duke as the ghostly image of a huge winged fiend.
He mocks the characters, then renews his hold on Mal-
dwyn. The only way to save the duke is to knock him
unconscious, at which point Baazkas spirit is forced
from Maldwyns body.
In any case, Pencheska hopes to slay the duke. If
she succeeds and remains unopposed, she then mur-
ders Lady Morwen and takes her form. As Morwen,
Pencheska easily inf luences the Council of Guilds to
23
name her Duchess of Daggerford. By these means,
Pencheska potentially becomes ruler of the town.
If the party defeats Baazka and Pencheska with-
out slaying the duke or his guards, the characters are
hailed as heroes. Weary and sickened, Maldwyn places
them in his personal employ and declares them knights
of Daggerford. Sir Isteval congratulates them, apologiz-
ing that he was not there when they faced their final
test. Having seen true horror, the duke humbles himself
and asks Isteval for tutelage in the ways of Lathander.
A party that wins with the duke dead has a lot of
explaining to do. Any charmed guards that survive
are good witnesses. The ash left when the duke and
Pencheska die is also evidence of fiendish presences.
Although the characters word cannot be trusted,
Isteval, Hadeshah, and Darrondar Gweth can confirm
the desecrated ash is the remains of a fiend.
In this latter case, Lady Morwen, as the only author-
ity left in the town, pardons the characters. However,
she charges them to repay their blood debt by confront-
ing the Thayans in Bloodgate Keep.
Shalendra Floshin
If Shalendra Floshin survives, Darfin Floshin is grate-
ful to characters who spared his sister. He allows them
to keep anything they recovered from his estate, per-
haps rewarding them with additional items that werent
plundered from his home. If Shalendra dies, Darfin is
less generous, and he uses his means to have her raised
from the dead in Waterdeep.
Shalendras fate is uncertain. Duke Maldwyn, know-
ing all too well what contact with fiends is like, is
hesitant to exact the vengeance upon her that he might
have only a few months ago. Darfin, a forgiving soul, is
also inclined to chalk his sisters crimes up to fiendish
inf luence. Absent any contrary recommendations, Sir
Isteval suggests she help with the assault on Bloodgate
Keep, to which she assents.
JULKOUN
Julkoun stands northeast of the Laughing Hollow, at a
point where the Delimbiyr River narrows as it traverses
a bed of rocky ground. Two prominent rock outcropp-
pings, the Flint and the Bump, dominate the landscape
near the village. At the village, the Delimbiyr River is
contained within artificial embankments, which fur-
ther reduces its width to a mere 160 feet.
Julkoun is a rural community, and besides the old
mill and the shrine to Chauntea, its buildings are built
of wood and straw. The village is home to weavers that
produce fine, tough cloth. Much of this cloth is shipped
abroad rather than sold in the village.
Julkouns Situation
Goblinoids staged a surprise attack on Julkoun a few
tendays ago. A Red Wizard named Thegger Grynn led
them. Pencheska also aided in the villages fall. She
arrived before the attack, and she charmed Estor, care-
taker of the Shrine to Chauntea, inf luencing him to
lock the iron doors leading to the village shelter. Then
she distracted the guards at the northwestern gate
while the goblinoids attacked from the west.
The villagers had nowhere to retreat, and goblinoids
killed many and took the survivors prisoner. Using the
prisoners as slaves, the goblinoids crudely fortified the
village. That done, a group of hobgoblins took the slaves
to Firehammer Hold. What livestock the goblinoids
didnt kill and cook in the village was sent to Fireham-
mer Hold or to the goblinoids tribal holdings in the
Forlorn Hills.
The goblinoids here know where the villagers were
taken. Theyre likely to reveal that information under
careful questioning and duress.
Reaching Julkoun
The characters can reach Julkoun by land, traveling on
the Delimbiyr Route, or by water, borrowing a boat and
going up the river. The land around the village lacks the
usual activity it sees, with no farmers in fields or fishers
on the river.
Wolf Riders
If the characters travel to Julkoun by land, a patrol of
three goblin wolf riders attacks the party somewhere
along the path that leads south toward the village. The
goblins prefer to shoot, and they are strapped to their
saddles. They retreat to warn their fellows at their camp
(shown on the map) after 3 rounds of shooting at the
characters, returning with reinforcements a short time
later. The goblins are bolder at night.
Dryad
An ancient oak in a grove (shown on the map) the vil-
lagers hold sacred is home to a dryad named Oyfanen.
The fey creature watches the forest and, from a dis-
tance, Julkoun with the aid of forest animals that serve
her. Saddened by the fate of Julkoun, Oyfanen takes
note when she learns the characters are in the area. She
sends a small animal to deliver a message to the party,
inviting the characters to her grove.
Oyfanen knows goblinoids attacked from the north,
and later, hobgoblins marched chained villagers toward
the north. The dryad also knows the location of the
goblin wolf rider camp. She is willing to help the party
defeat the goblins and save the villagers. If the char-
acters agree to do so, Oyfanen can help them with her
magic and provide a safe area in which to camp.
24
25
Approach
When the characters approach Julkoun in daylight,
they notice water surrounds the village on all sides,
whether in moats or the river. However, a few things
are amiss. Ragged black f lags are set into the parapet
of each guard tower (area 6). A field of goadssharp-
ened stakes fixed in the groundand lilies5-foot-deep,
staked pitshas been created around the palisade.
It takes a successful DC 15 Wisdom (Perception)
check to spot the goblins in the guard towers from far
enough away that the goblins cant see the onlooker.
Eastern Approach: Those who come from the east
see the eastern gate surrounded by a fence of sharp-
ened stakes and a barricade.
Northern Approach: Those who come from the
north see the town palisade has been breached in one
place, and the northern gate is surrounded by a fence of
sharpened stakes and a barricade. Most of the buildings
outside the wall are burned.
Western (Water) Approach: Those who come
from the west on the river pass through the Laughing
Hollow, a forested area recently ravaged by fire. As trav-
elers come closer to Julkoun, they see that most of the
buildings outside the wall are burned. Structures close
to the river, along with the western docks (area 7a), are
intact. Characters also see the chain pulled tight across
the river (area 1).
Guards and Response
Goblins keeping watch at the gates (area 3) and guard
towers (area 6) are likely to spot anyone approaching
the village openly. If a sentry spots intruders, the goblin
blows a hunting horn in three short bursts. That guard
and any nearby guards stay at their posts and attack if
possible, using ranged weapons.
If an alarm is raised, the goblins on watch converge
on the site of the battle. Hobgoblins in area 8 respond
in 1d4 rounds, leaving the mill on their initiative on the
round rolled. They try to prevent intruders from enter-
ing the palisade. If the battle is prolonged, the bugbears
from area 11 might come to join the fight.
If a battle to hold the lower village goes badly for
the goblinoids, one or more of them might retreat to
the upper town to warn Shorg, the hobgoblin leader
of these goblinoids. Shorgs cook and the worg move
from their locations in the inn to join Shorg. The cap-
tain organizes goblin parties, dividing any goblins he
can muster up among his three followers. These par-
ties patrol the village to root out intruders, while Shorg
takes his wolf and cook to guard Gabulla, the goblin
shaman, in area 25.
Treasure
Each goblinoid in Julkoun has personal jewelry and
coins worth 1d10 gp.
Julkoun Locations
The village, built on the grounds of an old castle, is
divided into three sections. The northernmost section
sits on the rocky feet of the Flint, 40 feet above the
river. The southernmost section stands directly on the
embankments, 10 feet over the river. The palisade that
surrounds these two sections of the village is 15 feet
tall, and the moat around the wall is 10 feet deep. To
the west is the third section, with no defensive wall or
moat, comprising barns, sheepfolds, and fishers sheds
built on a stretch of f loodplain.
Under the higher section of the village are the cel-
lars of Julkoun, which are dry subterranean chambers
used as shelter. A primary part of the cellars is the Jest-
ers Pride, an inn built partly underground. Julkouns
cellars have 10-foot-high ceilings in the corridors and
15-foot-high ceilings in the rooms. The doors of the cel-
lars are made of well-maintained reinforced wood, with
a few doors of iron that can be locked (Strength DC 30
to break, Dexterity DC 20 to pick the lock).
Most areas are unlit, but the aboveground structures
allow daylight in through windows. During the day,
such areas are at least dimly lit. Underground areas are
dark unless otherwise indicated.
1. Delimbiyr Chain
A thick chain has been stretched between two buildings on
opposite sides of the river.
The chain can be tightened or loosened with twin
winch mechanisms housed in buildings north and
south of the river. The goblins keep the chain tight at all
times to block water traffic.
2. Old Mill
A two-story structure built at the highest point of the north-
ern embankment, this old stone building is f lanked by a
30-foot-high waterwheel that dips in the waterway, foaming
and spinning steadily in the brisk river current.
This building houses a large grain grinder, powered
by the waterwheel outside. Inside are storage areas,
a workshop, a bakery with a shop area, and lodgings.
Plenty of f lour and grain is still stored here.
3. Gates
A 15-foot-high, 10-foot-wide log gate stands between two
guard towers, which rise 5 feet over the 15-foot-high palisade
and the surrounding moat. A bulging fence of 8-foot-high
pointed poles has been extended out of the gate to enclose the
terrain immediately before it. The earthen foundation of the
fence is covered with outward-pointing stakes, some of which
are adorned with severed human or half ling heads or limbs.
A temporary crossbeam barrier blocks the entrance to the
area within the fence.
26
Goads and Lilies: The goblins built fields of goads
and lilies. Anyone who falls prone in these areas takes
2d6 piercing damage. A successful DC 13 Dexterity
saving throw halves the damage.
Wall and Gates: Julkouns three gates (3a, 3b, and
3c) are barred from the inside. A guard tower f lanks
each side of each gate. Additionally, a 3-foot-wide wall-
walk runs near the top of Julkouns original palisade.
Ladders arranged along the inside every 100 feet allow
access to the rampart.
It would take siege equipment to force any of the
gates open, which is why the goblinoids have built the
fences and barriers. Moving a barrier requires shatter-
ing it (AC 5; immune to necrotic, poison, psychic, all
conditions; 50 hp) or enough Strength to drag 2,000
pounds (40 Strength for Medium and smaller crea-
tures). Poles connected to the inside of the barriers
allow them to be moved with half as much Strength.
Creatures: One goblin sentry is posted in each
guard tower adjacent to a gate.
4. Breach
Two crossbeam barriers block a 20-foot-wide gap where the
village palisade has been breached and the moat filled with
logs and debris.
Each barrier can be moved as described in area 3. If
the party drags any barriers onto the debris pile, it col-
lapses, depositing those on the pile in the moat amid
logs and rocks (2d6 bludgeoning damage; a successful
DC 10 Dexterity saving throw halves the damage).
5. Barn Traps
This 15-foot-high barn is near the burned buildings but it is
undamaged. The ground-level doors are closed, but a ladder
leads to an open loft door.
Barn Doors: The barn doors are barred from the
inside. Someone can break the bar by succeeding on a
DC 20 Strength check.
Loft Trap: If two or more characters enter the loft
at one time, the supports break. The loft collapses and
dumps any occupants on the f loor amid splintered
wood (2d6 bludgeoning damage, but a successful
DC 10 Dexterity saving throw halves the damage). A
character who searches the ground f loor can tell the
supports have been damaged with axes.
6. Guard Towers
This structure is a 20-foot-high wooden guard tower.
One goblin watches from each of the seven towers (6a
through 6g), but the goblin in 6d is a goblin boss.
Inside the palisade, stairs lead up each tower to its
roof less platform surrounded by parapets.
7. Wharf
A sturdy wooden wharf, with a few docked rowboats, stands
against the river embankments.
The western wharf (7a) is a cruder structure, built
slightly above water level in a low point of the embank-
ment. The eastern wharf (7b) is a solid structure built
5 feet above the water and equipped with ladders, hoist
ramps, and a crude crane.
8. Shining River Mill
This two-story, half-timbered building has mud-plastered
walls decorated in hues of beige, blue, and green. A 20-foot-
tall waterwheel juts out from its southern side.
The waterwheel powers a fulling machine. Comprising
the first f loor is a large workshop with spinning wheels
and weaving looms, storage space for skeins of raw wool
and finished bales of fabric, a dyeing workshop, and a
small kitchen. On the second f loor are private rooms
for several people.
Creatures: Six hobgoblins, one of them elite, have
chosen this building as their quarters.
Treasure: A trunk in the largest bedroom contains
the hobgoblins loot: coins, simple jewelry, and silver
ornaments from the shrine of Chauntea (area 9), for a
total value of 150 gp.
9. Shrine to Chauntea
This single-story, open-space building of stone, with a 15-foot-
high timber roof, is crowned by a cupola that has four
stained-glass windows depicting roses. A large cage used for
pigeons sits empty, open, and bloodstained in a small garden
area adjacent to the shrine.
Inside, the temple has been looted and vandalized.
The west wall opens in a semicircular apse behind a marble
altar carved in the likeness of a rosebush. The altar and the
benches in the temple have been hacked and marred. A door
on the south wall has been chopped open at the handle.
The door leads to the dwelling of the priest, which has
also been ransacked.
10. Ramp
A massive ramp of dirt and stone leads up to the higher sec-
tion of the village. Here and there, the ramp is bloodstained.
The wooden gate at the top of the ramp has been axed down
and repaired recently.
The gate is currently barred, but it is badly damaged.
It takes a successful DC 20 Strength check to break
through the shoddy repairs.
27
11. Inn Grounds
The Jesters Pride is built into the hill, its common room
underground (area 14). The building next to the mound
is a guesthouse, with nice rooms, polished copper tubs,
oaken furniture and fine bedding.
Rising from the f lattened ground around it, this artificial
mound is decorated with ceramic tiles and small standing
stones. The curved stairway that leads to its top is overgrown
with moss, and the trees that crown it are old. A straight
descending stairway leads to a basement door f lanked by a
row of round windows at the foot of the mound. An elegant
two-story wooden building with a roof of red shingles stands
on the west side of the mound, partially merged with its rocky
mass. Fixed on the wooden staircase that leads to the elevated
door of the building is a brightly painted sign with the image
of a smiling jester. The sign reads Jesters Pride Inn.
Creatures: Three bugbears live in the guesthouse.
Development: If the bugbears know about intrud-
ers, they band together. If the characters manage to
surprise a bugbear inside the guest house, any unin-
volved bugbears join the battle over the course of 1d4
rounds (roll for each bugbear).
The goblins (which could be asleep) in area 15
respond to fighting in the guesthouse 1d4 rounds after
the last bugbear does.
Treasure: Each bugbear has 30 gp and a pouch con-
taining 1d6 semiprecious gems worth 10 gp each.
12. Warehouse
This large, 15-foot-high building has a thatched roof, large
front doors, and no windows.
Nearby is a smaller pavilion with a half wall built around
the wooden beams that support the thatched roof. Gaps in
two places in the wall provide access to the pavilion. The f loor
inside is wooden and is arrayed with a number of long tables
and benches, as well as a stone fire pit and a hatch.
Pavilion: The smaller building is a pavilion built
over the southern well room (area 20). Beside the hatch,
it has a large bucket on a chain attached to a small
winch. A broken pole with a hook at the end, used to
remove the well cover from inside the pavilion, lies on
the f loor near the fire pit.
Pavilion Hatch: The hatch in the pavilion f loor has
a broken lock and opens 15 feet above the well. If the
hatch is opened during daytime while the darkenbeast
is in area 20, the creature retreats from the light to area
19, which tells Shorg that something is amiss. In this
case, the beast fights alongside Shorg if he comes under
attack, but see area 20 for more details.
Warehouse Interior: Inside the warehouse is an
open storage area, described as follows:
Thick wooden pillars hold up the roof frame. Large platforms
mounted between the pillars and the walls increase the avail-
able storage space. On the ground f loor are piles of wood and
lumber, as well as huge clay jars of grain and pallets of build-
ing materials. Bales of wool have been stored on most of the
raised platforms.
This space is used to store stone blocks, bricks, sand,
slaked lime, and timber, as well as grain, coal, and lots
of wool. A trapdoor leading to the cellars (area 19) has
been smashed open.
13. Bridge
On the north side of the village, the moat turns into a 50-foot-
deep chasm overgrown with underbrush.
Someone who spends any time scanning the ravine
spots a wooden structure like a covered bridge with
a tiled roof crossing the chasm. The bridge is 20 feet
above the moat f loor and 20 feet below the upper vil-
lage. Climbing down to the bridge from the village is
easy, but since the bridge is covered, entering it requires
a creature to climb to a window on the structures east-
ern or western sides.
The window on the west side is closed (Strength DC
10 to break, Dexterity DC 15 to jimmy open), but the
one on the east side is open. The interior of the passage
is described in area 21.
A rope, tied to a crossbeam inside the covered pas-
sage, dangles out of the eastern window. Hanging at
the end of the rope near the moat f loor is the body of a
human. The corpse is what remains of Estor, the village
priest. He still wears a copper and quartz holy symbol
of Chauntea, a rose in bloom (10 gp).
14. Common Room
The front door of the Jesters Pride stands under a wooden
awning at the bottom of a descending stair. The door is
slightly ajar, and cracked and dented. Stained-glass windows
east of the door have many broken panes between their strips
of lead.
A small fire burns in the fireplace here 50 percent of
the time, and one of the goblins from area 15 is cooking
using it. Characters can see the light from the windows.
Inside the common room is as follows:
The interior is in total disarray, and the tiled f loor is covered
in a layer of splinters, shards, and bloody grime. Two corners
contain fireplaces, and the rough stone walls and pillars show
signs of recent violence and vandalism. Across the ceiling is a
network of copper pipes. Most of the furniture is overturned
and broken. On the eastern side of the room is a bar with a
large set of shelves, all of which has been hacked and smashed.
Doors to the west and north have been torn from their hinges,
while a third door on the east wall is mostly intact.
28
In the northern wall, east of the door, is a curtained
window, its bottom 3 feet from the f loor. The lower portion of
the window forms a broad stone counter.
The earthy scent of the stone walls is mixed with a strong
odor of beast.
Noise: If the characters attract no attention, within
a few moments, they can hear something rummaging
around beyond the curtained window, which leads into
area 17.
Creature: An old worg, Shorgs pet, rests and keeps
watch here. A grizzled specimen that lost its left eye in
battle, the worg usually sleeps behind the bar and is
slow to attack intruders.
Development: If a fight breaks out here, the goblins
(which could be asleep) from area 15 and the hobgoblin
from area 17 are likely to hear and join in as quickly
as possible. One of the goblins might run to warn the
bugbears in area 11. (They could choose not to aid the
combatants here, setting up an ambush in the guest
house instead.) The hobgoblin can stay in area 17 and
attack from the window there.
15. Guesthouse Basement
The southern wall of this room is lined with open and empty
wooden lockers. Under the wooden staircase that leads to the
guesthouse is a copper tank connected to a copper pipe that
runs in from the common room. The tank, which has a spout,
sits on an iron wood-burning stove. Alongside it is a stack of
firewood and several wooden buckets. Half a dozen bedrolls
are spread out in the area.
Creatures: Five goblins and one goblin boss rest
here between guard shifts. At any given time, 1d6 of
them are asleep.
Development: Bugbears in the guest house (area
11) might come to investigate any sounds of fighting
that occur in this area.
16. Meeting Room
The walls of this room are lined with oiled wood planks and
decorated with hanging ceramic or ivory tiles. The room is
furnished with a single table and stools.
The ten ivory tiles hanging from the wall can be easily
removed and are art objects (1 pound and 10 gp each).
17. Preparation Room
This room contains a table, a couple kegs, a pair of stools, and
shelves with assorted crockery and condiment f lasks on the
north wall. A bedroll is spread on the f loor under the table.
Shorgs hobgoblin cook lives here. He has six cleavers to
use in combat.
18. Kitchen
This underground kitchen smells of mushrooms and spices.
The walls and the corner fireplace are lined with beige glazed
tiles bearing leafy motifs. Lots of copper pots and pans
hang from hooks or rest on wall shelves. The room contains
two large tables and a halved section of a small tree trunk
mounted on stubby pegs as a cutting surface.
19. Warehouse Basement
If Shorg is still here, the brazier is burning low. Charac-
ters approaching this area notice its dim light.
Supported by two stone pillars, this large space contains boxes
and barrels, mostly of food, herbs, and drink. The odor of
ale, wine, and scented smoke is strong here. A tripod brazier
stands between two pillars.
Creatures: Shorg, the hobgoblin leader, and his
three elite bodyguards (two female, one male) rest
or idle here. The hobgoblins sleep on mats and pelts
strewn between boxes.
Treasure: This space is used mainly to store wine,
ale, and food. Shorg has two potions of healing. Near his
bedding, he keeps a chest that contains a pouch with 60
gp, a pouch with thirteen semiprecious stones (10 gp
each), and assorted silverware (5 pounds, 100 gp). The
chest also contains a potion of climbing.
Shorg also has a key to the iron doors in area 21 and
area 23.
20. Southern Well Room
A well in the middle of this room is covered by a removable
wooden lattice, which is broken into pieces scattered about.
Shelves on the west wall contain buckets and waterskins of
various sizes. A wooden crate near the entrance contains
empty glass bottles. Unlike the rest of the cellars, the ceiling
here is of wood and has a hinged hatch in the middle of it.
Ceiling Hatch: The hatch in the ceiling, 15 feet
from the f loor, opens easily. Its lock is broken.
Creature: A darkenbeast hangs from the wells lip
to sleep. It has standing orders from the Red Wizards
to f ly back to Bloodgate Keep if it comes under attack.
During nighttime, it f lies through the ceiling hatch
after a couple rounds of fighting and wings off to the
northwest. The darkenbeast might retreat to the pavil-
ion during daytime, but it wont enter a sunlit area
willingly. It is disinclined to help the goblinoids repel
intruders, so it stays here unless someone opens the
pavilion hatch during the day (see area 12).
If exposed to sunlight or killed, the darkenbeast
reverts to its natural shape, that of a cow, at the end of
its next turn.
Development: Those who see the darkenbeast and
succeed on a DC 20 Intelligence (Arcana) check know
29
it is a creature created by the dark magic of the Thay-
ans. Such a character also knows the darkenbeasts
weaknesses, such as the effect of sunlight.
Well: The well shaft goes down 25 feet to the water,
which is 10 feet deep.
21. Roofed Passageway
An iron door, half open, leads to a stone passageway. The hall
has a window on each side and an iron door at the other end.
On the east side, the window is open. A tight rope secured to a
ceiling timber passes through it, hanging outside.
A corpse hangs outside (see area 13) from the rope lead-
ing to the eastern window. The iron door to the north is
closed but unlocked.
22. Underground Shelter
A cook fire burns in the fireplace here 50 percent of the
time. If so, the characters notice the light.
This large room contains more than a dozen triple bunk beds
with wool mattresses and storage drawers built into the beds
bases. A central table stands between two stone pillars in the
middle, and a copper kettle hangs from a hook over a fire-
place in the northwestern corner.
The goblins use this area, formerly a refuge for villagers
in times of trouble, as a bunkhouse. One of the bunks is
missing its mattress.
Creatures: Ten goblins and two goblin bosses bunk
here or in area 24. At any given time, assuming they
have not been alerted to danger, 2d6 of them are sleep-
ing before resuming duties in the village. Those who
are awake are gambling with dice and chattering.
Development: If a battle breaks out, Gabulla and
her vipers (area 25) join the fight in 3 rounds.
23. Storage
The iron door into this room is closed and locked.
This room contains two large shelves on the western wall, as
well as a combination of chests, barrels, and crates. Most of
the containers have been moved or opened, but the room is
still in order.
This storage area for the village shelter contains non-
perishable food, wine and ale, and other necessities for
enduring hiding underground, such as candles, cloth,
linens, and other mundane supplies.
24. Northern Well Room
A well covered by a wooden lattice opens in the middle of this
room, which contains half a dozen triple bunk beds, a few
shelves, and a small table.
The well shaft goes down 20 feet to the water, which is
10 feet deep.
25. Defiled Shrine
The iron door into this room is closed and locked.
This room has smooth stone walls, and it ends with a square
niche in which stands a human-sized statue of Chauntea,
appearing as a wise-looking matronly woman dressed in
robes and f lowers. She holds a sheaf of wheat in one arm and
a bunch of roses in the other. Under her is an altar carved to
look like a rose bush. Before the altar are eight benches, and in
each corner is a brazier. All these furnishing have been carved
from the rock of the room.
Vile symbols have been scrawled in dark red on many of
the surfaces. The altar has been chipped and cracked. On the
statue of Chauntea, the infernal sigils are most numerous.
The altar is spread with various implements for writing and
painting, as well as vessels of various sizes, coins, gems, and
jewelry. Just in front of the altar is a wool mattress draped
with wolf furs.
Symbols: The writing is Infernal, as anyone who
doesnt speak Infernal but succeeds on a DC 20 Intel-
ligence (Arcana or Religion) check can tell. If someone
can read Infernal, the symbols repeat a few concepts.
The masters heart beats like a war drum in the
Forlorn Hills.
His fire burns inside me.
Master! Whisper to me the secrets of the hells.
He f lies in spirit, his body bound by the blade.
The Red Wizard gave it wings of shadow.
Curse this goddess and her servants.
Creatures: Gabulla, the goblin shaman Baazka pos-
sessed, dwells here with two giant vipers. She spends
her time painstakingly defacing the shrine, writing
while listening to the voice of her master.
Treasure: Scattered on the altar are the most
valuable pieces from the looting of Julkoun, includ-
ing gems, jewelry, and portable art objects worth 300
gp. Among several pint pots, which contain blood,
are two vials of ink, a pot of honey, several painters
brushes, and a bloody spindle. Gabulla wears a jeweled
electrum brooch (100 gp) on her wolf-fur cloak, a belt
of electrum rings and plates (100 gp), and boots of strid-
ing and springing. She carries the only key to this room,
as well as keys to areas 21 and 23.
30
PHYLUND LODGE
Only a noble would describe Phylund Lodge as a hunt-
ing lodge. For generations, members of the Phylund
noble family of Waterdeep came to the Ardeep Forest to
hunt and trap beasts of the woods, using a small hunt-
ing lodge as their base. Theyd invite noble friends or
those with whom they would make alliances, treating
them to a tenday or more of leisure.
As the familys fortunes improved and the popular-
ity of their hunts increased, the lodge was replaced with
ever more elaborate structures. It became the primary
residence of the heads of the Phylund family, who used
it as a center for their beast-training trade and hunt-
guide businesses. Thus the lodge was equipped with
stables, gardens, guest rooms, wine cellars, and even
underground cells for the more dangerous creatures
the Phylunds captured.
The fortunes of the family eventually fell after a
series of deadly accidents at the lodge, culminating
in the bloody revelation that Lord Urtos Phylund II
was aff licted with lycanthropy. To help put that period
behind the family, the Phylunds departed the lodge to
live in Waterdeep.
They left servants to protect the lodge from loot-
ing, fully intending to return to their family seat when
fortunes improved. They did not. When salary pay-
ments became delayed and finally ceased, the servants
departed, leaving nature to take over their watch.
Situation at the Lodge
A Red Wizard named Thegger Grynn was interested in
the contents of the crypts under the lodge. Along with
a few Thayan gnolls, he made contact with a local gnoll
tribe after Baazka possessed the tribes leader. Promis-
ing loot from Trade Way caravans, Thegger suggested
the gnolls operate from a camp near the lodge and the
lodge itself. After driving out the creatures living in the
lodge, the gnolls followed Theggers plan. While the
gnolls conduct their raids, the Red Wizard has been
practicing necromancy in the Phylund crypts. Soon, he
plans to take his creations back to Bloodgate Keep to
bolster Thayan forces.
He and the gnolls of Phylund lodge know the loca-
tion of Bloodgate Keep. They also know its intended
purpose. That said, none of the villains in the lodge are
willing to give aid to the enemy except under severe
duress or magical compulsion. Grynn prefers death to
what might happen to him if he betrays his masters.
Reaching the Lodge
The characters can reach Phylund Hunting Lodge
traveling on the High Road and then taking a footpath
east about 30 miles south of Waterdeep. The footpath
forks halfway from the High Road to the lodge, and the
characters can choose whether to approach their des-
tination from the south or the west. As the characters
move away from the High Road, the landscape becomes
wild and rugged. Natural vegetation thickens until the
lush, mist-shrouded wall of trees of the Ardeep Forest
comes into sight.
Gnoll Hunters
Local gnolls maintain a detached camp in the woods
south of the lodge. If the characters approach the lodge
on one of the two paths leading from the High Road,
a group of four gnoll hunters on patrol might attack
the party unless theyre taking precautions to remain
hidden. The hunters hide in the bushes and shoot from
150 feet away. They maintain a running battle, retreat-
ing when wounded. When two have fallen or retreated,
the whole hunting party retreats to the camp.
Twelve gnolls reside at the camp. They might rein-
force the lodge if they think an attack has occurred
there. If the camping gnolls encounter the characters
and survive, within the same day, the gnolls in the
lodge know well-armed strangers have been in the area.
The gnolls in the lodge are more alert for 24 hours, and
Thegger Grynn might take the dread warriors from
area 31 to guard him in area 16.
If the gnolls suspect that the party is camped nearby
at night, six gnolls sortie out to find the enemy. If the
characters have an encounter, the gnolls find the partys
camp. The gnolls attack with surprise if possible.
Spring Cave
If the characters search the area, ample gnoll tracks
can be found. Some older ones lead back to a cave,
about a quarter of a mile from the lodge, from which
f lows a stream. The cave is easy to spot and big enough
for a humanoid the size of a gnoll to walk in without
hindrance. This cave eventually leads to area 35.
Approach
When the characters approach the lodge, they can see
the two-story structure from a great distance. As the
characters move closer, they can see that a wooden
palisade and other wooden structures must once have
surrounded the keep. These buildings have collapsed.
Guards
Unless they have a reason to be alert, the gnolls are too
simple and lazy to bother posting lookouts outside the
lodge. Instead, they rely on the outlying camp, their
hyenas, and traps in the lodge for warning.
A third of the gnolls in the lodge are Thayan, with
lighter coloration and dyed Thayan patterns on their
fur. The hyenas at the site are also Thayan. Someone
who succeeds on a DC 15 Intelligence (History or
Nature) check can tell the creatures arent local.
31
32
Treasure
Each gnoll that has no other treasure has coins and
simple jewelry worth 3d8 gp.
Lodge Locations
Unless otherwise noted, the ceilings in the lodge are
10 feet high. The doors of the cellars are made of re-
inforced wood, mostly swollen and partially rotten. The
doors of the crypts (areas 25 to 32) are made of stone
and mounted on pivot hinges. The natural caves have
ceilings and passages of variable height, normally 10 to
15 feet. All areas are unlit, but in aboveground sections,
the windows are enough to provide dim light during
daylight hours. The gnolls sometimes light fires.
1. Western Courtyard
A gap between two weedy heaps of rotting wood, which once
were watchtowers, leads into a courtyard so overgrown that
it almost melds with the grassland beyond. A couple mature
trees stand above the weeds and grass between the gate and
an enormous, two-story dilapidated stone building.
On the ground f loor, the building has three sections. The
closest corner of the northern section is a great standing
stone. Prominent on the long middle section is a large wooden
double door, cracked and blackened, and decorated with
panels of embossed bronze depicting animals and plants. On
the northern side of that same section is a well over which is
carved a wolf s head pierced through the ears by a spear.
Creatures: Two hyenas prowl the courtyard. If a
fight breaks out, the two hyenas from area 2 arrive at
the start of the third round of combat and join in.
The window from area 5 allows a gnoll there to fire
from the hall to aid the hyenas. The gnolls wont leave
their shelter to confront characters in the courtyard.
Doors: Two doors at either side of the standing stone
allow access into area 3 from the west and the south,
while a set of double doors on the west wall of the main
building leads to area 5.
Phylund Lith: This ancient standing stone is carved
and scrawled with various symbols, phrases, and
glyphs. Someone who succeeds on a DC 15 Intelligence
(History or Religion) check recognizes a few old Mala-
rite symbols and oaths, as well as oaths to Tempus.
Well: The well goes down 15 feet to the water in
area 33 through a 3-foot-wide circular shaft.
2. Eastern Courtyard
In the weedy courtyard of the dilapidated two-story lodge, a
large, single-story stable stands to the south and a cluster of
wild apple trees to the north. Near the apple trees is a wooden
door into the northern section of the lodge.
Two hyenas wander or rest here. If a fight breaks out,
the two hyenas from area 1 arrive at the start of the
third round of combat and join in.
The window from area 6 and another in area 7 allow
two gnolls to fire from those areas to aid the hyenas.
Since theyre resting, the gnolls dont attack until the
third round of combat. They wont leave their shelter to
confront characters outside.
3. Old Keep Hall
The gnolls enter this room only by descending the stairs
from area 9. All three doors to the outside have been
barred with a wooden joist on the inside. If a door is
forced open from outside (Strength DC 10), a spiked
plank drops from above the door (2d4 piercing damage,
but a successful DC 12 Dexterity saving throw allows
the character to avoid the plank).
The noise of the falling plank alerts the sentries in
area 9, who alert the gnolls in area 15. Those gnolls
quickly come to aid those in area 9. If they have time,
these creatures wait in ambush in area 9.
The stone walls of this room are bare and aged. Part of the
rune-engraved monolith on which the structure is founded
is visible in the southwest corner, and a fireplace has been
carved into it. The room contains disorderly piles of contain-
ers, as well as rugs, blankets, cloaks, furs, vases, and other
earthenware.
In the northern portion of the room is a stairway leading
up. In an alcove to the southeast is a descending stairway.
Stairs: To the north, the stairway leads to area 9. A
stairway in the southeast corner leads down to area 21.
Treasure: The various items stored here are bulky
(300 pounds) but somewhat valuable (150 gp).
4. Kitchen
This old kitchen has recently been cleaned and put back to
use. Near the fireplace, neatly stored in a wooden casket, are
several cooking utensils. A tarnished copper pan punched
with multiple holes hangs on the wall near the entrance.
Thegger Grynn wanted to cook, so he cleaned this area.
A heap of sacks full of chestnuts partially blocks the
door that leads to area 3.
5. Entrance Hall
The outer doors open easily, creaking on rusty hinges.
Built in brick, planked with wood, and decorated with false
arcades, this entrance hall has an aged, rustic majesty.
Wooden double doors stand closed across from the entryway.
Two gnolls are always stationed here. A fight here is
likely to attract the attention of gnolls in area 6.
33
6. Great Hall
Half the time, a fire is lit in the great fireplace here.
Two pillars support this hall, which stinks of smoke and wet
animal. The walls are cracked and damp, faded frescoes
showing where the plaster hasnt fallen off the underlying
brick. A long, rectangular table stands before a huge fireplace,
with several chairs scattered here and there, some broken or
upturned. Bones, dried skin, and pieces of rotting meat are
scattered across the f loor. A brick staircase leads up along the
southern wall.
Creatures: Four gnolls live in this room, and 1d4
are asleep. Those that are awake are eating or engaged
in light activity.
A fight with the creatures here is likely to attract the
attention of gnolls in areas 5, 7, and 15.
Stairs: The stairs lead to area 15.
7. Stable
The shingled roof of this stable has been severely damaged,
and the sky is visible through many cracks and holes. Wooden
debris, like old cage bars or poles, is piled on the f loor just
inside the entrance. Old stalls, separated by barriers of perfo-
rated bricks built on the southern wall, have been filled with
heaps of dry leaves, straw, and dirty rugs. Other crude beds
have been placed along the other walls.
Four gnolls live in this room, and 1d4 are asleep. Those
that are awake are eating or engaged in light activity.
A fight with the creatures here is likely to attract the
attention of gnolls in area 6.
8. Service Room
The door here is barred and trapped like the ones in
area 3. If the trap goes off, gnolls from area 19 call the
gnolls from area 15, and they set an ambush in area 19.
This room contains the remains of three wooden tubs with
matching washing boards, a few buckets, brooms, dirty rags,
and other ruined housekeeping items. A rusted iron cauldron
hangs from a hook over the fireplace. To the east, a stairway
leads up.
The stairs lead to area 19.
9. Landing
The walls of this landing are decorated with hundreds of
wooden crests bearing the emblems of noble families. Some
crests have been removed, some have fallen to the f loor, and
all have faded with age and weather. A large hole in the ceil-
ing explains the weathering of the area.
Creatures: Two gnolls stand guard here.
Crests: The crests bear the names of Waterdhavian
nobles who participated in Phylund hunts in the past.
They are worthless due to exposure to the elements.
Stairs: The stairway connects to area 3.
10. Privy
This privy, lined with ceramic tiles, is musty with age.
11. Large Guest Room
This large room, once richly furnished, now contains the rot-
ting remains of three beds, with matching chests and chairs.
12. Guest Rooms
This room contains a bed and other furniture, now warped
and rotten.
13. Lounge
The walls here are lined with weathered wood and hung with
moldy tapestries, a few of which lie in heaps on the f loor.
14. Bathroom
This room contains a copper tub covered in verdigris, a
wooden bucket, and a clay bowl. The room is clean, and the
roof has been patched with fresh planks.
The tub has been used recently, and the bowl contains a
scrub brush and a partially used bar of scented soap.
15. Sitting Room
On the walls of this room are many hooks and rotting wooden
frames that could be used to hang objects of various sizes and
shapes. A round table sits in the middle of the chamber, and
a rusty suit of decorative plate armor stands on the east wall
near the massive fireplace to the north. To the west is a set of
double doors, and two doors are closed on the southern wall.
Opposite the fireplace, on the south wall, is a stairway leading
down. Just north of the stairs is another closed door.
Creatures: Two gnolls stand sentinel in this room.
If a battle starts here, Thegger Grynn (area 16) and the
gnolls from areas 9 and 19 join the fight in 1d4 rounds
(roll for each). Noyerghu, the gnoll chieftain, also joins
the combat from area 20.
Stairs: A stairway leads down to area 6.
16. Suite
The door to this room is banded oak, and it is kept
closed and locked at most times (Strength DC 20 to
break, Dexterity DC 15 to pick the lock).
This room has a patched roof, repaired shutters, a few decent
pieces of furniture, a new carpet, and a clean bedroll. It con-
tains a bookshelf, a writing desk with a large tome on it, a
small chest, and a barrel.
34
Creatures: Thegger Grynn spends much of his time
here, studying his spellbook and planning. Thegger is a
smallish, young man of delicate features, with an intel-
ligent and devious look. His head is shaved and tattooed
with the Thayan symbol for the school of necromancy.
Treasure: Thegger carries a +1 dagger, a potion of
healing, and a potion of diminution. He wears a platinum
ring set with a black pearl (250 gp). A key ring on Theg-
gers belt contains keys to this room and his chest, as
well as the key to the secret doors in area 29.
On the desk is Theggers spellbook and journal (see
the Spellbook section), as well as a white bowl and
a copper cup (1 gp). Also here is a black ceramic bowl
with a spindle-shaped magic lodestone (divination
and transmutation) in it. The bowl is coated with dried
blood. If placed in water, the lodestone f loats and points
to the north. If placed in blood, the lodestone f loats and
points toward Bloodgate Keep. If placed in water mixed
with blood, the lodestone alternates between north and
the direction of Bloodgate Keep.
Inside the chest (Dexterity DC 20 to pick the lock)
are clothes and a small satchel containing a steel razor
and strop, a silver mirror (5 gp), and a copper toothpick
(1 gp). Under the clothes is a sack of 16 onyx gems (25
gp each) and an ebony coffer carved to look like a sleep-
ing dragon (50 gp). It contains 204 gp.
The barrel contains fresh water. Hung on the side is
a tarnished silver ladle (10 gp).
Spellbook: Theggers spellbook has a faint aura of
evocation magic if detect magic is used on it.
The first page has runes on it that, when read by
anyone other than Thegger, cause the book to explode.
Everyone within 10 feet of the book then takes 14
(4d6) force damage, or half that on a successful DC 12
Dexterity saving throw, which the reader makes with
disadvantage. The book is destroyed if the runes go off.
The runes can be disabled by using dispel magic on
the book or with a successful DC 15 Intelligence check.
The check involves carefully slicing out the page with-
out inadvertently reading the runes, and folding the
page so the runes are no longer visible. Failure on this
check indicates the character read the runes without
meaning to, setting them off.
If the book is preserved, it contains the spells noted
in Theggers statistics. It also holds notes and diagrams,
in the Thayan language. These notes describe what
Thegger has been up to, from organizing the gnolls to
practicing necromancy and creating dread warriors.
The notes mention the possession of Flubnak in passing,
including Baazkas name but not his nature. They also
speak of taking the undead to the keep by properly
using the lodestone to stay on course.
17. Cloakroom
This small room has hooks and pegs fixed to the wall. A few
rags litter the f loor.
18. Storeroom
Rotting wooden racks and shelves are all this room contains.
19. Trophy Hall
This room holds the remains of scores of hunting tro-
phiesfurs, mounted heads, skulls, and small beasts stuffed
wholeof which only a few still hang from the walls. Four
wooden bookcases, their shelves broken out, have been laid
on the f loor and filled with grass and furs. A stairway to the
south leads downward.
Creatures: Four gnolls live here, with two guarding
area 15 and two resting here at any one time. If a battle
occurs here, Noyerghu from area 20 joins at the start of
the second round.
Stairs: The stairway leads down to area 8.
20. Masters Room
This room contains a large writing desk near the middle and
a cupboard on the east wall. A bed in the northwest corner
has been covered with a messy heap of straw and furs.
Creature: Noyerghu, a Thayan gnoll leader, guards
the gnoll treasure here.
Treasure: Noyerghu carries a potion of healing. Under
his bed, a chest contains an agate lanceboard set (200
gp), 23 gems (50 gp each), 42 gp, and 392 sp.
21. Wine Cellar
Bricks line the walls here. The western wall is covered in
shelves on which stand a few dusty bottles. Countless other
bottles have been shattered on the stone f loor. A banded door
on the eastern wall is slightly ajar, and a spiral staircase to the
south leads upward.
The stairway connects to area 3.
22. Flubnaks Lair
Within the brick-lined walls of this damp, square room are
three empty barrels and an upturned chest. The rotting
shards and rusty hoops of a few other broken barrels are scat-
tered here and there on the f loor.
To the south is a pile of furs and straw. Next to that is a
small cask, a copper pot, and a metal bucket.
Short halls open to the south, east, and north.
Creature: Flubnak, a gnoll trapper and former chief,
and his two pet wolves live here. Baazka has possessed
Flubnak, altering the gnoll so that he prefers to be alone
when not speaking to Noyerghu or Thegger Grynn.
Treasure: In the copper pot is a pair of ivory dice (5
gp), 6 gp, 1 ep, 13 sp, and 35 cp.
35
23. Storage Area
This damp, brick-lined cellar contains four shelves on which
stand a few clay and glass vases. Similar containers are
also broken on the shelves and f loor. To the west is a banded
wooden door covered in mold.
The western door is stuck in its frame (Strength DC 14
to force open).
24. Pool Chamber
The door to this chamber is ajar and hangs free of one
hinge. Running water can be heard at the same time
the door can be seen.
The eastern half of this chamber is occupied by a square basin
fed with roiling water.
The basin is 2 feet deep. A 2-foot-wide tunnel leads in
from the south, and another goes out to the north.
25. Crypt Vestibule
This dry, dusty room is lined with marble.
26. Phylund Lord Crypts
The door of each crypt is finely chiseled marble deco-
rated with the Phylund crest of a wolf speared through
the ears. A Phylund lords name is carved on each one:
Bartos Phylund (26a), Urtos Phylund (26b), and Urtos
Phylund II (26c).

This square crypt contains a stone casket mounted horizon-
tally on the life-size statue of a crouching beast. The top of the
casket has been removed and lies on the f loor nearby.
The casket top in area 26c is shattered.
27. Common Crypt
This large crypt contains burial niches for wooden coffins.
All the niches are empty, and a dozen or so coffins have been
opened and cast to the f loor or leaned against the wall.
Six of the standing coffins contain unarmed skeletons,
which attack anyone other than Thegger Grynn, the
gnolls, or the other undead in this area.
28. Phylund Family Crypt
The closed stone door bears the Phylund family crest.
Inside this crypt are six stone slabs. The walls are filled with
empty burial niches.
Creatures: Six unarmed skeletons are here, one
on each slab. They attack anyone other than Thegger
Grynn, the gnolls, or the other undead in this area.
Slabs: Each slab has a name engraved on the side,
including Namynie (mother of Bartos), Nydurra (wife
of Bartos), Urta (first wife of Urtos I), Lythis (wife to
Urtos II), a daughter (Reata), and the first son of Urtos I
(Bartos), who died before coming of age.
29. Cleansing Chamber
A stained bronze brazier sits in the northeastern corner of
this chamber, opposite two stone benches on the west wall. On
the benches are several clay plates, bowls, and urns.
Secret Doors: A secret door (DC 15 Intelligence
[Search] check to find) is built into each of the north-
ern and southern walls. The triggering mechanism is
locked (Dexterity DC 15 to open).
Treasure: The secret alcove to the north contains
a fine bronze bowl embellished with semiprecious
stones, rare pigments, and gold leaf (10 pounds, 100
gp). Images on it depict Tempus watching humans hunt-
ing wolves, with several wolves impaled on spears. The
bowl still holds five pints (f lasks) of holy water.
30. Vault
This chamber has walls of hewn stone with shelves cut into
them. A square stone pedestal stands in the southwest corner
and a stone table rests near the east wall. Resting on the table
are a black human skull, a brass cone, and a crystal vial. A
faint bitter smell hangs in the air.
Trap: Roll initiative when anyone opens the door.
Unless someone speaks the pass phrase (Hail Szass
Tam!), which only Thegger Grynn knows, the skull
fires two jets of f lame (2d6 fire damage; DC 13 Dex-
terity save negates), one from each eye and each at a
different target, on its initiative count. The skull fires
two eye rays each round on its initiative until intrud-
ers leave, the pass phrase is spoken, or the skull is
destroyed (AC 5; immune to cold, fire, necrotic, poison,
psychic, all conditions; 15 hp). If it fires rays for 10
rounds or is destroyed, the skull turns to ash. Other-
wise, the magic within it resets after 1 hour.
Treasure: On the table is a brass incense burner
shaped like an abstract toothed maw (25 gp). The vial is
a potion of mind reading.
31. Tempus Shrine
The f loor of this circular room is split into two sections by a
shallow depression full of clear running water. On the circling
wall, bas-reliefs represent various hunts, from a boar hunt to
an owlbear hunt. At the southern end of the room, standing
on a 3-foot-high stone pedestal, is the statue of a helmeted
warrior in battered plate mail. The figures hands rest on the
haft of a notched battleaxe.
36
Creatures: Three dread warriors, created from the
corpses of the Phylund lords, guard this chamber.
Pedestal: The pedestal is carved with the image of
two warhorses, as well as the symbol of Tempusa blaz-
ing sword on a shield. Behind the pedestal is a secret
door (DC 15 Intelligence [Search] to find).
Treasure: One of the dread warriors has a +1
longsword with the name Bartos Phylund and the Phy-
lund crest engraved in the fuller.
32. Malar Shrine
This square room has a central depression with clear water
running into it. The walls are rough hewn. Opposite to the
entrance is a stone altar dark with old stains.
The altar has a basin in it, carved into the center of
a bestial hand with long talons. Any character who
succeeds on a DC 15 Intelligence (Religion) check rec-
ognizes the symbol of Malar, a deity dedicated to the
savage aspects of the hunt. From the basin, a channel is
carved from the altar into the f loor, leading to the water
that f lows east to west. Stains on the altar are most
prominent in and around the basin, as well as in the
channel. Close inspection reveals they are bloodstains.
Although Malar is an evil deity, it is common for
non-evil hunters such as the Phylunds to propitiate him.
33. Well Cave
An underground stream traverses this cave, forming a clear
pool in the northeastern section. A small hole has been carved
in the ceiling above the pool. The remains of a bucket on a
chain are submerged in the pool below the hole.
34. Low Cave
This natural cave has a low ceiling, at about 5 feet. It
descends into a wide pool.
35. Ancient Malar Shrine
Crude figures representing humanoids hunting beasts are
painted in white on the cave walls in this pungent chamber. A
stalagmite in the western section is roughly carved to resem-
ble a crouching bestial humanoid with a red muzzle. A clawed
hand is emblazoned in reverse on a field of red on the figures
chest. Behind the rude idol is a 10-foot-wide, 5-foot-high crev-
ice filled with debris. The remains of several rats lie in various
stages of decay about the chamber.
Debris: The debris in the crevice is a cave rat
midden (a hivelike structure). Given the rat remains,
someone who succeeds on a DC 10 Intelligence
(Nature) check can identify the midden.
Creatures: The rats avoid the characters unless
someone defiles the idol. If that happens, a dozen cave
rats, their bodies bulging and eyes glowing red, pour
from the midden and fight until slain.
36. Painted Cave
Crude figures representing humanoids hunting beasts are
painted in white on the cave walls here. A 3-foot-wide hemi-
spherical stone is partly buried in the middle of the room.
The hemispherical stone is engraved with devotions to
Malar in old Common.
37. Disposal Cave
This cave contains the bones of various animals and human-
oids. A 3-foot-wide hemispherical stone is partly buried in the
middle of the room.
The hemispherical stone is like the one in area 36.
HARPSHIELD CASTLE
A round hill rises from the southeastern tip of the
Ardeep Forest, standing tall above the surrounding
grasslands and trees. From a distance it is unremark-
able, with a dirt trail climbing its southern slope and
then meandering down its eastern side. By climbing
one of these two trails, one comes to the hills broad
top and sees the ruins that stand there. They are the
remnants of Harpshield Castle, so named for the crest
carved on an arched bridge still connecting two sec-
tions of its ruined walls.
With the exception of a cylindrical stone tower, only
the castles foundation walls remain. The stonework is
clearly the stout and precise construction of dwarves,
but its built to support a castle in human style. Over
five hundred years of passing seasons erased all trace of
the wood fortifications that stood atop these walls.
The ruins have been used as a landmark and camp-
site for those wandering the wilds, and as a home to
a succession of nomads, bandits, and monsters. Most
recently the ruins served as a winter meeting place for
a large group of Gurs, nomadic humans who left the
site about a decade ago. It was the Gurs who built the
wooden structures now on the site.
Situation at the Castle
The orcs who now occupy Harpshield Castle are a
mixed group from among three tribes of the Forlorn
HillsFanged Moon, Gory Maul, and Jagged Scythe.
Only fear of their leader, the pale chief, makes such
a group possible. This leader is Wartsnak, an orc wight
that Baazka possessed.
Wartsnak broods in the dungeons, allowing Sezibul,
the Fanged Moon shaman and the only leader among
the orcs to survive Wartsnaks brutal rise to power, to
command day-to-day events. Members of the Fanged
Moon tribe are camped at the castle, while the Gory
Mauls and the Jagged Scythes have set up their tents
downhill from the ruins.
37
38
RITUAL COMBAT
In addition to hunting parties, the orcs sometimes
gather at dusk in area 1 to engage in ritual unarmed
combat to settle disputes. During such gatherings,
Sezibul evokes Baghtru, Son of Gruumsh and orc deity
of strength, and oversees the rites. At this time, twenty
or more orcs might mingle in area 1. Once per tenday,
these matches determine which tribe gets to live on
the castle grounds with Sezibul. The Fanged Moon has
always triumphed in such games.
The orcs have two connections to Red Wizard opera-
tions in the area. First, they helped excavate Bloodgate
Keep. Second, they have recently received weapons
from the duergar at Firehammer Hold, to which the
orcs send the few prisoners the tribes dont keep for
sport. Although only a few of the orc warriors have fine
weapons and armor, almost all the orogs and the orc
leaders do. To anyone with an eye for such work, these
armaments are clearly of dwarven make.
Lesser orcs here are likely to tell what they know
under duress. The questions have to be specific, though.
The orcs volunteer little information freely.
Reaching the Castle
Characters can reach Harpshield Castle on a path
that borders the ruins of Delimbiyran and the Floshin
Estate. The forest almost encircles the castle hill.
Orc Activity
Gory Mauls and Jagged Scythes hunt and despoil the
castle hill, supplying all the orcs here. Their camps
are clusters of tents northeast (Gory Maul) and south
(Jagged Scythe) of the castle. Each group keeps watch
along the path nearest its camp. If characters approach
along such a path, four orc warriors attack the party,
opening with ranged attacks then closing for melee.
A desire for glory makes these orcs unlikely to retreat
quickly enough to escape. If they do, they warn their
camp rather than the castle.
Fifteen orcs reside at each camp. If these orcs
encounter the characters and survive, the orcs in the
castle know about intruders within a couple hours. The
orcs in the castle are then more alert. They keep a close
watch on the castle environs for 24 hours after the last
reported contact with intruders.
If the orcs suspect that the party is camped nearby
at night, patrols of five orcs each search the area. Each
time the characters have an encounter at night, the orcs
find the partys camp and attack it.
Hunting Gricks
At night the characters run into 1d4 2 (minimum 0)
hunting gricks, or 1d6 2 if the party is camped west of
the castle.
Approach
When the characters approach the castle, assuming
enough light, they can see the 10-foot-wide foundation
walls and the great arch from quite a ways off. In addi-
tion, the breach in the curtain wall near the arch is
apparent, as is the 40-foot-tall northeastern tower. From
the west, the characters can see the collapsed wooden
palisade the Gurs built to protect the castle path.
If the characters watch for a while from a distance
and during daylight hours, they notice the guards in
area 12 watching the main path through the arch
in area 1. They also notice the patrol in area 3 as it
ascends the ramps in area 5, and they hear the voices of
the orcs in the courtyard, as well as Lutha, the ogre in
area 4. Cautious observation should allow the party to
discern the courtyard is full of enemies.
Guards
The castle is poorly defended. Sezibul is a mystic, not a
warlord. He relies on small patrols, as described in later
sections, as well as the watchers in area 12.
Treasure
Each orc that has no other treasure has coins and
simple jewelry worth 2d8 gp.
Castle Locations
The foundation walls are 10 feet high and thick, but
they are rough and easy to climb. Aboveground wooden
structures have 10-foot-high ceilings and functional
wooden doors and shuttered windows. The dungeons
also have 10-foot-high ceilings. Dungeon doors are
made of reinforced wood. All areas not subject to day-
light are unlit unless otherwise noted.
1. Harpshield Arch
The rising path to Harpshield Castle passes under a great
stone arch that connects the foundations of the main curtain
wall to the base of a detached tower to the south. The keystone
of the arch is adorned with the eroded relief of a harp within
a triangle of stars. A roofed wooden structure with several
windows stands on the stones of the arch. North of the arch, a
sizeable portion of the foundation wall has collapsed, leaving
a gap partially obstructed by a heap of rubble.
Two orcs lazily watch this entrance from area 12. They
shoot arrows from windows at any non-orcs spotted
approaching the castle. Combat here quickly alerts all
the orcs in area 3.
39
2. Western Gate
The path circles around the remains of the curtain wall
and reaches what was once a west-facing gateway. A crude
wooden gate fills the opening.
Gate: Orcs made a crude wooden gate to keep beasts
out. A wooden bolt holds the gate shut. The gate is diffi-
cult to force open (Strength DC 15), but the bolt is easy
to dislodge with thieves tools (Dexterity DC 10).
Creatures: Two orcs patrol area 3 every fifteen min-
utes. They keep an eye on the gate and go up each ramp
(area 5) to look over the walls. The orc sentry at area 9
can see anyone entering the gate.
3. Castle Courtyard
The fire here is lit at night and smolders throughout the
day. At night, it provides bright light for 30 feet and dim
light for 30 more, although the tents block the light in
some places.
Once paved in stone, the castle courtyard is now overgrown
with weeds. A cluster of crude hide tents stand around a
campfire in the southwestern part. In the middle, next to a
circular stone well, a standard depicting an upturned crescent
moon crossed by two slashes hangs from a pole topped with a
human skull. A crude wooden hall stands against the north-
ern stretch of the curtain wall. A 40-foot-high tower stands in
the northeast, and other wooden buildings stand toward the
south. East of the well, a gap in the foundation wall leads to
the base of what was once a large rectangular tower.
Creatures: The tents of the Fanged Moon tribe
shelter the fifteen orc warriors that live in the castle.
Normally, five rest in the tents, five idle in area 10, one
is on sentry duty in area 9, two keep watch in area 12,
and two patrol the curtain wall (areas 3 and 5).
Development: If the orcs come under attack here,
orcs dispersed to other areas join the battle in 1d4
rounds (roll for each group). The ogre in area 4 joins the
fight in a similar amount of time. Sezibul joins combat
from area 16 in 3 rounds.
Well: The well has a 3-foot-tall stone wall around it,
and a bucket on a 50-foot chain near it. The 7-foot-wide
shaft drops 35 feet to the water through area 24.
4. Luthas Pen
Almost completely enclosed by the foundation wall, this space
might once have been the base of a great tower. An enormous
ring of rusted iron or steel juts from the eastern wall. Under-
neath is a pile of dried grass, bones, and fur.
Creature: When he was younger, Sezibul found a
young female ogre whose head injury had rendered
her little smarter than a beast. She became Sezibuls
loyal pet, and he named her Lutha. Between times they
take her hunting, the orcs keep her confined here with
a long chain and a massive iron collar (two locks; each
Dexterity DC 15 to pick) lined with fur. Since shes pre-
vented from wandering off, Lutha spends most of her
time asleep, and the rest of it eating or watching the
orcs at the camp in area 3. She has a club, and she can
pick up fallen masonry to throw.
If Lutha is desperate, she can break free if she suc-
ceeds on two DC 20 Strength checks, pulling her chain
and its anchoring ring out of the wall. If she does, she
might use the chain as a weapon (as her club, but with
a reach of 15 feet; if an attack deals a target 14 or more
damage, the target falls prone).
Obstructed Trapdoor: The opening for a trapdoor
in the southwest corner has been obstructed from
below with a pile of masonry. It would take one person
4 hours to uncover the stairway to area 27.
5. Stone Ramps
A short stone ramp leads up to the curtain wall. Holes in the
ramp might have been for posts for wooden structures.
The two-orc patrol from area 3 might be found on one
of the ramps.
6. Old Latrine
This smelly, dirty wooden shack has several bloody hand
prints on the door and the outer walls.
Set in the f loor is a grid of wooden bars over area 22,
which is 10 feet below. The grid is caked with filth. It
can be pulled apart (Strength DC 15) or destroyed (AC
5; immune to poison, psychic, forced movement, all
conditions; 35 hp).
7. Lift Trap
A wooden shack with an unusually large door juts out of the
main building near the foundation wall. Its door leans open
and partially unhinged beside its frame.
This room contains a crude wooden platform that was
once moved to or from area 17 with a block-and-tackle
mechanism. The lift no longer works, and the orcs have
rigged the platform to collapse (DC 10 Intelligence
[Search] to detect). If 100 or more pounds is placed on
the platform, it collapses. Those on the platform then
take 17 (3d6 bludgeoning damage) from falling 20 feet
onto jagged rubble the orcs have piled in the area.
8. Entry Hall
This room contains two benches, two stools, and a stack
of firewood in the northeast corner. On the wooden walls,
among other obscene and disconcerting graffiti, are many
drawings of an upturned crescent moon with two slashes, a
bloody maul, and a scythe with a serrated blade.
40
9. Sentry Box
The wooden walls of this room have two arrow loops crudely
cut into the west and south walls.
An orc from area 3 is on guard duty here, keeping
watch on area 2 through the arrow loops.
10. Common Room
The fireplace here contains a small fire 50 percent of
the time during the day and always at night. Then it
provides bright light for 30 feet and dim light through-
out the room.
This room contains a huge stone fireplace, two long tables,
several stools, and two sets of shelves. A pig carcass lies half
eaten on one of the tables. Bones, bits of rotten food, and other
debris litters the hall. The stench of rot is pervasive.
Creatures: Five orcs from area 3 prepare food, eat,
and amuse themselves here.
Trapdoor: In the southeastern corner is a trapdoor
that opens onto a stairway that leads down to area 17.
11. Arming Room
This room contains a table, several stools, and a weapon rack.
Wooden stairs lead up to a door on the southern wall.
The rack holds a halberd, two short swords, a long
sword, and a f lail.
12. Arch Guard Hall
This elongated wooden room contains a couple stools. It has
windows on the west and east walls, and a fireplace to the
northeast. The southern wall has a wooden door in it.
Creatures: Two orcs from area 3 stay here to lazily
keep an eye on both sides of the arch.
Development: Zukosh from area 13 joins a fight
here in 1d4 rounds. He might even drive some pigs into
this chamber to throw enemies off balance.
13. Pigsty
This whole place reeks of offal and rot. Crudely cut logs parti-
tion the southern section of this roof less area into several pig
pens. In the northern part of the room are a watering trough
and two mangers. A large water barrel stands in the north-
east corner. In the center of the northern wall, a short f light of
wooden stairs ascends to a wooden door. In the northwestern
corner, an arrow slit looks out on the path to the castle gates.
Zukosh, a normal orog, watches over eleven pigs here. If
he thinks intruders are coming, he crouches behind the
water barrel and ambushes them. The pigs do not fight,
but might become obstacles.
14. Pantry
The banded wooden door is always locked (Strength
DC 20 to break; Dexterity DC 20 to pick the lock).
This room has an earthy, spicy smell. It contains several
chests, crates, sacks, and barrels.
The containers here hold wild potatoes, chestnuts,
cured pork, sausages, blood puddings, and a few cured
and spiced grick tentacles. The larger barrels contain
watered beer, while smaller casks hold watered whiskey
or wine.
15. Lower Tower
The banded wooden door is always locked (Strength
DC 20 to break; Dexterity DC 20 to pick the lock).
This area has a central pillar with a barrel near it. A circular
wooden staircase leads 20 feet up to another f loor made of
wood mounted on massive oaken beams.
Creature: Two orogs guard this area. If battle breaks
out here, Sezibul joins the fight 1d4 rounds later from
the stairway. See area 16.
Barrel: The barrel contains water.
Trapdoor: Northeast of the central pillar is a trap-
door that opens to a ladder leading down the northern
wall of area 18.
16. Upper Tower
This chamber has a conical shape due to the tower roof. Six
windows open in the tower walls, although all are covered
with leather curtains. Furnishings include a straw bed, a
table, a chair, a small barrel, and a large wooden birdcage on
a stand.
Creatures: Sezibul lives here. At the start of a fight,
he blows a signal whistle.
Development: Sezibuls whistle rouses Lutha in
area 4, who bellows and moves to the tower door in
area 15. She opens it, or if its still locked, tries to batter
it open. Her actions alert the orcs in and around area
3. Lutha cant fit into the tower, but 1d4 1 orcs (mini-
mum 0) arrive each round through the open tower door
until all the orcs in the upper ruins have come to fight.
In response to a fight here or Sezibuls whistle, one
orog from area 17 comes through the trapdoor into area
15 in 1d4 rounds. The other orog there peeks through
the trapdoor, then goes to warn Wartsnak (area 20).
Faced with the possibility of death, Sezibul f lees by
jumping out the window over the tower door. He lands
on Lutha if shes there, taking no damage. Otherwise,
he falls 20 feet.
Barrel: The small barrel is half full, containing 2
gallons of strong, bitter beer.
41
Table: On the table are a stone mortar with a
wooden pestle, several clay bowls with powdered herbs
and spices, and various bones, skulls, and mummified
animal parts. On a wooden trencher lie two pieces of a
human-fistsized blue-green eggshell (a gricks). A silver
cup encrusted with amethysts (150 gp) stands next to
the trencher.
Treasure: Sezibul has a silver torc (65 gp) and a key
ring on which he has keys to the pantry (area 14), the
tower door (area 15), the tower basement (area 18), and
Luthas collar. He also has a key to the chest in area 26.
17. Barracks
A fire is always lit in the fireplace here so the orogs can
cook and provide embers to Wartsnak, who demands
warmth. The fire provides bright light for 30 feet and
dim light throughout the room.
Six stone pillars support the ceiling of this massive basement.
Many straw beds, covered with woolen rugs and hides, are
laid along the walls. The southern wall has a huge fireplace.
Creatures: Two orogs are resting here at all times.
Trap Landing: Under the eastern staircase is an
arched passage that leads to the bottom of a shaft con-
nected to area 7. Rubble has been piled there.
18. Tower Basement
The banded wooden door is always locked (Strength
DC 20 to break; Dexterity DC 20 to pick the lock).
This square room has a central pillar around which is a loose
pile of rope. A ladder leads to a trapdoor in the ceiling of the
northeastern corner.
The pillar and the ropes are stained with blood.
19. Cells
The western part of this room is divided into two identical
cells constructed of wooden bars. Each cell contains filthy piles
of straw and a wooden bucket. The cells are open, chains and
padlocks hanging loosely from the bars.
In the northern cell is the pale corpse of a human, whose
bruised neck and stained clothes contrast with his serene
expression in death.
Creature: Wartsnak strangled Alven Gissen, who is
now a zombie. It attacks anyone in or near the cell.
Development: If combat occurs here, the zombies
in area 21 arrive in 1 round. Wartsnak arrives from
area 20 in 1d4 rounds.
Treasure: Alven wears a brass and silver symbol of
Amaunator that Luc Sunbright gave him and Wartsnak
left on the corpse. The symbol is worth 25 gp, and those
who knew Alven in Daggerford recognize it.
20. Throne Room
Embers in the iron braziers here give off enough dim
light to illuminate this room.
In the middle of the eastern wall of this room is a makeshift
throne of stones, bones, severed heads, and skulls. Two iron
braziers full of smoldering coals stand in the corners f lanking
the throne.
Creatures: Possessed by Baazka, Wartsnak broods
on the throne while holding the Delimbiyr Bloke. He
looks like a mighty albino orc, although his glowing red
eyes betray his unnatural nature. The pale chief pre-
fers to stay underground to confront enemies.
Treasure: Wartsnak has the Delimbiyr Bloke.
He also wears a gold torc (250 gp), and his battleaxe
appears new, bearing the f laming maul seal of Fire-
hammer Hold.
21. Abandoned Storage
This room contains large wooden crates, mostly open or
broken and empty.
Creatures: Four zombies, the remains of the human
treasure-hunters who came here recently, lie hidden
among the crates.
Secret Door: A pivoting slab of stone, 5 feet on each
side and 6 inches thick, can be opened in the wall 5
feet above the f loor. A character who succeeds on a DC
15 Intelligence (Search) check while investigating the
room can spot the doors seam.
The secret door leads to a tunnel. At the other end, it
is 5 feet above the f loor of area 33.
22. Isolation Cell
This reeking cell has a depressed f loor, and it is full of rotting
waste and filth.
The f loor is 3 feet below the hall. Inside, partially cov-
ered by mud and filth, is the body of an elf who was
tortured to death.
23. Grick Trap
A makeshift but sturdy-looking barrier of logs blocks the cor-
ridor. Two narrow windows pierce the barrier.
Creature: The first time the characters approach
this area, the corridor is empty. The second time they
come here, a grick is in the isolated corridor. If attacked
from the opposite side of a barrier, the grick tries to get
at its attackers for 2 rounds, then retreats.
Barriers: The orcs placed two 4-foot-thick log bar-
riers to close off this corridor and the grick tunnels it
leads to. Each barrier is braced in place and has poles
for moving on the outside. A successful Strength check
42
is required to move the barrier aside (DC 25 from the
inside, DC 15 from the outside).
The passageway beyond the barrier is stained with
yellow-green ichor and dark blood, as well as shattered
arrows and a few broken spears.
Grick Tunnels: Two 4-foot-wide circular passages
open in the south wall near the f loor.
24. Well Passage
During daylight hours, the closed double doors here let
in a little light around their seams. The well area itself
is full of bright light in this case.
A shaft has been carved into the f loor here.
The well passage is open, the shaft dropping 15 feet to
the water. In the ceiling, the well shaft goes to the sur-
face 13 feet above, counting the well wall in area 3. The
wall is slippery, so its not easy to climb (DC 10 Strength
[Athletics]) up to or down from area 3.
25. Abandoned Tavern
This room contains the remains of tables and chairs, shelves,
crates, empty bottles, and small kegs. A banded wooden door
stands closed in each wall.
Three once-human zombies stand in place until a non-
orc enters the area. Then they attack.
26. Orc Treasure Room
This chamber holds a large iron chest and seven casks. The
area smells of beer.
Casks: Each cask contains 5 gallons of strong, bitter
beer and bears a stylized f laming maul branded on its
side, the symbol of Firehammer Hold.
Chest: The chest is locked (Dexterity DC 15 to pick
the lock). It contains a pouch with 35 gp, a sack with
205 sp, a wooden coffer with 12 gems (25 gp each), and
a jet statuette of a female orc with enormous claws on
her hands (the orc goddess Luthic, 150 gp).
Also inside is a large roll of new parchment. The
sheet is a map of the Daggerford region, originally
keyed in Common. Filarion Filvendorson can identify
this map, which he helped the treasure seekers prepare.
In Orcish using Dwarven runes, territory on the map
is marked as a new domain (its land to be given to the
orcs after the Red Wizards come to power). The area
includes all the land between the Ardeep Forest and
the Forlorn Hills, including the House of Stone as a for-
tress. Bloodgate Keep is noted much like Harpshield is:
it seems to be an important but unnamed site for future
orc holdings.
27. Warehouse
The western door leading to this room has been
boarded shut (Strength DC 25 to break). Each of the
six boards can be pried loose (Strength DC 10, or auto-
matic using a crowbar or similar tool).
The f loor of this room is littered with wooden wreckage from
various broken crates, pallets, and chests. A spider the size
of a dog crouches in the dust near the northern wall. A stone
staircase ascends to a pile of rubble in the southwest corner. In
the southern wall is a 5-foot-wide circular tunnel.
Creatures: A grick is hiding on the stairs near the
rubble when the characters arrive.
Rubble: At the top of the stairs is a pile of masonry
that obstructs an open trapdoor into area 4. It would
take one person 4 hours to remove all the rubble and
create an exit.
Secret Door: Hidden in the eastern wall is a narrow
secret door (DC 15 Intelligence [Search] to find) that
leads to a tunnel 5 feet wide and 8 feet tall.
Spider: The spider is actually the desiccated exo-
skeleton of a monstrous specimen.
28. Grick Burrows
This small chamber has been excavated in stony earth. It has
multiple circular tunnels exiting from it. The f loor is littered
with masonry, gravel, and loose dirt.
Creatures: Each time the characters spend more
than a few moments in 28a and 28b, there is a 50 per-
cent chance that a grick squeezes through one of the
hidden tunnels and attacks.
Exit Tunnels: The westernmost tunnel out of area
28a is 5 feet wide and eventually reaches the grick hole
on the surface. The easternmost tunnel out of area 28b
is similar, but it leads to area 29.
Ground Tunnels: Hidden under the debris in each
cave is a smaller tunnel, 2 to 3 feet wide, that leads
downward. These tunnels lead to the Underdark, and
possibly to a larger grick lair.
29. Grick Hatchery
A heap of masonry rubble fills the south half of this large
burrow. Larger pieces of masonry lie in other parts of the
room. Rainwater filtering from above keeps this area damp,
and a blanket of dimly glowing yellow-green mold covers
parts of the f loor. Among the furry fungus are several oblong
blue-green eggs the size of a human fist.
Creatures: Three gricks guard the hatchery. If
anyone takes or destroys an egg, all the gricks focus
their attacks on that creature.
Development: If anyone takes an egg from this
area, five gricks emerge from the ground tunnel in 1
43
minute. They pursue the stolen egg, attacking its carrier
and killing anything else in their path. If a grick recov-
ers the stolen egg, the grick brings the egg back to the
hatchery. The remaining gricks, instinctively seeking
to remove the threat to their nest, fan out to attack non-
gricks in the area.
30. Grick Burrow
This small chamber has been excavated in stony earth. A cir-
cular tunnel exits each of the east and west walls.
The exit tunnels are 5 feet wide.
31. Empty Room
This small room seems empty except for a piece of fallen
masonry in the northwestern corner. The air here is stale.
32. Dead Portal
This room contains two tall bookcases on the east wall, a table
near the north wall, and bronze braziers at the four corners.
In the middle of the south wall is an archway that opens into
a blank wall.
Creatures: Two shadows lurk in the archway.
Portal Arch: The arch was once a portal. If a detect
magic spell is used, the portal still radiates faint trans-
mutation magic.
Shelves: The shelves contain books and scrolls, now
desiccated and faded, which crumble to dust if touched.
33. Antechamber
The walls of this room are dressed white stone and contain
several empty niches. A stairway near the middle of the north
wall is choked with rubble. Another passage leads north at the
west end of the room.
34. False Treasure Room
This room contains a large chest, open and full of coins, and a
display stand on which rests a small crystal decanter.
Secret Door: In the northeastern corner is a swivel-
ing stone slab hidden in the wall (DC 15 Intelligence
[Search] to find). It opens into area 35.
Treasure: The chest holds 230 sp and 790 cp. The
decanter (25 gp) contains four doses of potion of poison
labeled as potion of healing.
35. Old Treasure Room
This room contains two small chests, three display stands,
three large clay urns, and a bench, on which sits a gilded, life-
sized statue of a cat.
Creature: The cat statue radiates conjuration magic
if examined with a detect magic spell. If touched, the
statue shatters, magically releasing a tiger that attacks.
Treasure: The first chest contains 93 ep and 342 sp,
and the second chest contains 136 gp and 44 gems (25
gp each; 1,100 gp total). One stand holds a suit of +1
chain mail, another holds a +1 warhammer, and the third
holds a spellguard shield. All the urns are old Kingdom of
Man artwork (10 pounds each; 100 gp each, although
Duke Maldwyn will pay up to twice that).
FIREHAMMER HOLD
Since ancient times, Firehammer Hold has been
a temple-fortress dedicated to Haela Brightaxe, a
dwarf hero-goddess purported to grant luck in battle.
Although reduced in number over the years, Haelas
faithful maintained control of the hold up until a few
months ago, when the Thayans plan to capture the
region began to unfold.
Through Baazka, the Red Wizards made a pact
with a fiendish duergar (or durzagon) named Nalifarn,
asking him to lead his clan to invade Firehammer Hold,
taking over its forges to manufacture armaments for
Thayan forces. With the help of elemental creatures the
Red Wizards summoned, the gray dwarves opened a
passage to the hold from the Underdark and attacked.
Haelas followers, surprised and outnumbered, perished
bravely but quickly. None escaped.
Since then, humanoid allies of the duergar, espe-
cially hobgoblins, have supplied the gray dwarves with
prisoners captured in the surrounding lands. Duergar
ruthlessly force these slaves to work in the holds mines.
A large part of Julkouns population has recently arrived
in Firehammer Hold to this end.
Situation at the Hold
The duergar have been making arms for Thay for sev-
eral tendays now, and a cycle of labor has recently been
completed and the arms shipped. Now the duergar
have turned their attention to mining more ore under
the hold for another round of smithing. Theyre working
quickly, with little regard for their slaves, anticipating
more prisoners from raids in the area.
Nalifarn also pushes his clan to refit Firehammer
Hold as a permanent duergar dwelling. His followers
have begun converting the religious icons at the site. In
communion with (rather than possessed by) Baazka by
means of his fiendish heritage, Nalifarn has also started
to tap the power of the Nine Hells to aid the duergar.
Given a chance, this diabolical power can only grow.
Duergar here are a support and supply force for
the Thayans. The gray dwarves do not venture out of
the hold to deliver their goods. Instead, a contingent
of Thayan gnolls, sometimes with an attendant Red
Wizard, comes to the hold to gather supplies and redis-
tribute them. One such pickup occurred recently.
44
Only Nalifarn knows about Bloodgate Keep. Because
of the recent Thayan visit, so does the durzagons new
prisoner, Jekk.
Reaching the Hold
Approaching Firehammer Hold requires travel along
the Iron Road. From the Iron Road, a gravel path climbs
to two thousand feet along the wall of a valley. The
holds entrance opens where the gravel path runs near
the top of an escarpment, which overlooks a wooded
area and an abandoned logging thorp. Around the
hold are signs of intense logging activity. During the
day, ravens and buzzards circle the mass grave, so an
observer knows something dead is in that area.
Statue of Vergadain
Along the gravel path west of the hold is a 10-foot-tall
statue of Vergadain, the dwarven god of luck and mer-
cantilism. It is erected where the main path crosses a
secondary path leading to a loggers thorp. The statue
depicts the deity pointing to his right (up the hill) with
a broad smile, holding a coin (his holy symbol) in his
left hand. Any character who succeeds on a DC 10
Intelligence (Religion) check recognizes the statue as
Vergadain the Laughing Dwarf (dwarves know this
fact automatically).
Nailed to the statues chest is an iron shield that has
a broken crossbow bolt painted in red on it. Any char-
acter who succeeds on a DC 20 Intelligence (Religion)
check recognizes the symbol as that of Laduguer, the
grim deity of the duergar (dwarves have advantage on
this check). A phrase in Dwarvish on the pedestal, just
below a shallow basin full of algae-filled rainwater,
reads, Go west! Build wealth!
Vergadain rewards cleverness and enterprise. The
first time a character puts a gold piece in the basin, that
character gains Vergadains blessing. For the next hour,
the character has the benefit of a bless spell.
If the characters pull the symbol of Laduguer off
the statue (a few minutes work with the right tools, or
immediately with a successful DC 15 Strength check),
the statues eyes f lash and gleeful laughter erupts from
it. Rainwater in the basin, which refills if empty, shim-
mers and is cleansed of algae, becoming as many doses
of potion of healing as there are characters present.
Loggers Thorp
A character who can track sees the gravel path to the
old loggers thorp shows recent traffic, mostly human-
oids on foot. Buildings in the thorp are sturdy stone
structures that lost their thatched roofs long ago.
Nothing of value remains, but a small logging path
leads from the thorp in a loop through the nearby
woodlands. Someone who can track sees that small par-
ties of booted humanoids have used the trail recently.
Mass Grave
Characters who follow the loop trail come near a mass
grave and notice the odor of decaying f lesh. Those who
search the area for the scents source arrive in an oval
clearing where a 50-foot-long, 10-foot-wide ditch has
been dug to a depth of 5 feet and covered with rock and
soil for half its length. Still visible in the uncovered sec-
tion are a half-dozen human corpses, some desiccated
(Intelligence [Nature] DC 15 to discern the signs of
giant spiders feeding but no sign of webbing).
At dusk each day, duergar warriors make their way
down from the mine entrance (area 13) to the grave.
Theyre laden with 1d4 corpses of slaves that died that
day, with two warriors for each corpse. Characters
who attack have advantage on attack rolls against the
duergar until they drop the corpses. Every few days, a
group of eight duergar comes to cover the bodies in the
grave with soil. While digging, these gray dwarves are
distracted enough that attempts to sneak up on them
are made with advantage.
While the grave detail is out of the mine, the gate at
area 13 is open to allow fresh air in. See that area for
details. It remains open until the grave detail returns,
but if the detail takes more than an hour, another patrol
of four warriors goes to the grave to see if something is
amiss. If they find their comrades slain or missing, or
the if sortie fails to return, the hold goes on alert.
Any duergar warrior defeated outside the hold
should be subtracted from the total number living in
area 12.
Hold Locations
Firehammer Hold was built by dwarf stonemasons
and is a paragon of masonry. Unless otherwise noted,
the ceilings are 15 feet high, although higher ceilings
are common in large chambers. Walls are lined with
smooth, well-joined stone. Inner doors are made of
steel-reinforced wood, are maintained well, and are
easily opened. Secret doors are panels of stone, per-
fectly concealed in the masonry (Intelligence [Search]
DC 20 to detect), and open smoothly once located. The
mining areas are roughly hewn, especially the most
recent ones, and have ceilings up to 10 feet high.
Guards
Guards keep strict watch on several sections of the
hold, and duergar come to the aid of their fellows. If the
duergar are winning a battle, they attempt to subdue as
many characters as they can. Captured characters are
stripped, tortured, imprisoned in area 20, and put to
work in the mine.
Treasure
Each duergar without predetermined treasure has per-
sonal wealth, jewelry, and gems worth 2d6 5 gp.
45
46
1. Main Entrance
A 12-foot-tall, 10-foot-wide set of double stone doors set in
a smooth stone wall forms an entrance that faces south and
opens almost directly onto the gravel road outside. A massive
knocker of stone is affixed to the center of each door 4 feet off
the ground. Two 9-foot-tall bas-reliefs of stern dwarf warriors
with full helms, braided beards, and axes have been carved on
the rock wall at both sides of the entrance. Above the door is
the stylized symbol of a blazing maul.
Gate: The stone doors of the gate are immensely
heavy, but are designed to turn smoothly on pivot
hinges. It is bolted shut, and opening it requires a siege-
scale attack or a knock spell.
Knockers: If the characters use the knockers, the
sound echoes deeply in the halls beyond the gate. No
one responds.
Inner Hall: The hall beyond the stone doors has a
10-foot-high ceiling supported by four pillars. Six large
stone basins along the west and east wall collect rain-
water from a drainage system in the ceiling.
2. Hostel Entrance
A walled structure juts out from the natural cliff face. On the
southeastern corner is a 7-foot-tall carving of a female dwarf
leaning on a shield emblazoned with two interlocked rings.
The outer door is made of stone, the stylized symbol of a blaz-
ing maul carved in relief on it. A wooden plaque next to the
doorengraved in Dwarvish, Elvish, and Commonreads,
Welcome. Rest easy until audience is granted.
Entry Door: The door opens easily. The inner bolt
has been removed, which is obvious to anyone who
examines the door.
Living Room: Beyond the entrance, the living room
of the hostel has wood-paneled walls, a fireplace, a fine
table with stools, and a well-worn carpet on the f loor.
3. Southern Bedroom
This room has wood-paneled walls, and it is furnished with
two bunk beds and four small chests.
A search of the room, along with a successful DC 15
Intelligence (Search) check, reveals an inscription
crudely carved on the wood of one of the bunk beds.
The writing (in Common) reads, Were doomed! The
inscription was carved recently.
4. Northern Bedroom
This room contains three bunk beds, three stools, six small
chests, and an empty wooden bookcase on the north wall.
Secret Door: The bookcase has a peephole (DC 20
Intelligence [Search] check to find) and is a secret door
(DC 20 Intelligence [Search] check to find, or DC 10
if the peephole is discovered, or if the characters check
the bookcase and learn it is attached to the wall). The
door can be operated from either side, opening into the
secret passage. The duergar blocked the door with a
stone wedge from inside the passage (Strength DC 20
to force it open from area 4).
Development: Each day at dusk and dawn, four
duergar warriors come to the peephole to see if anyone
or anything is inside the hostel. If they see no one in
area 4, they reconnoiter the whole hostel, then leave
again through the secret passage.
If the duergar suspect someone is snooping around
the hold, the same patrol comes but tries to draw
intruders into area 2 or 4. Another four duergar war-
riors come from the main gate to the hostel entrance.
They move into the hostel to outf lank enemies.
If overwhelmed, the warriors engage in a fighting
retreat to area 5. If they are defeated, remove those that
fall from among the duergar in area 12.
5. Guardroom
In this room, a small fire in an eastern fireplace illuminates
a table with four stools. Two empty weapon racks f lank a
banded wooden door to the west. Archways open to the north
and south, the southern one at the base of a stairway.
Two duergar warriors are here at all times. They engage
in a fighting retreat to area 10 while raising an alarm.
6. Armory
The door of this room is locked (Strength DC 20 to
break, Dexterity DC 20 to pick the lock).
Inside this room are two large weapon racks and four large
stone basins holding ammunition.
Creatures: A cave lizard is confined here to watch
over the weapons. The lizard attacks any creature that
is not a duergar.
Treasure: The weapon racks hold 9 spears, 5 maces,
7 shields, 4 heavy crossbows, and 6 battleaxes. Three
basins contain 200 crossbow bolts each, and the fourth
holds 350 sling bullets.
47
7. Shrine to Haela Brightaxe
The 30-foot-high ceiling of this large room is supported by
two square pillars. A 10-foot-tall statue of an armored female
dwarf wielding a greatsword wreathed in two spirals of f lame
stands in a recess in the northern wall. The southwest and
southeast corners contain stools and benches arranged before
two fireplaces. Halls exit the room to the northwest, south,
and west. The eastern wall instead has narrow 3-foot-tall
niches starting 3 feet off the f loor.
Arrow Loops: The niches are actually arrow loops
from the guard post at area 12b. Any character who
succeeds on a DC 15 Wisdom (Perception) check or
moves within 10 feet of the loops realizes this fact.
Creatures: Duergar warriors in area 12b can see
into this shrine through the arrow loops. Warriors in
area 12a can see the trapped corridor at the base of the
northern stairs leading out of this room.
Signs of Battle: A successful DC 15 Intelligence
(Search) check, a successful DC 20 Wisdom (Percep-
tion) check, or careful examination of the area reveals
subtle signs (bloodstains, chipped furniture, notched
stone) of a recent battle. The dwarves of the hold made
their last stand here.
Statue: The statue is of Haela Brightaxe, Lady of
the Fray, dwarf demigod of heroic battle. A character
who succeeds on a DC 15 Intelligence (History) check
knows she was slain over a century ago (a dwarf suc-
ceeds on this check automatically). On a successful DC
15 Intelligence (History or Religion) check, a character
knows that Haela was actively worshiped here in Fire-
hammer Hold (dwarves have advantage on this check).
Someone who pays respect to Haela at the shrine
feels an intuitive desire to bring a token of defeated
duergar, such as the banner of Laduguer in area 11, to
the shrine as proof of righteous battle against the holds
usurpers. If any character does so, the whole party
hears a female voice shouting a battle cry in Dwarvish.
(If the banner was brought, it burns up in twin coils of
f lame.) The statues eyes f lash, and each character is
affected by an aid spell. Further, in the next battle the
party fights against the duergar, a bless spell affects each
character until the battle ends.
Trap: The corridor that leads from the shrine to
area 18 is trapped with a large pressure plate that acti-
vates when more than 100 pounds is placed on it (DC
15 Intelligence [Search] to find; DC 15 Dexterity to
disarm). If the trap activates, an iron portcullis falls at
either end of the trapped area (DC 20 Strength to lift).
Any duergar that wants to use this passageway calls out
to the guards in area 12a, who disarm the trap with the
lever in that room.
8. Plundered Storeroom
This room is furnished with a cabinet on the west wall, a
small chest, and three stone stands. Several empty sacks and
leather bags are strewn on the f loor.
9. Hallway of Dragons
Stone double doors that allow access to this passage are
carved with scenes of dwarves in battle with various foes. The
hallways north and south walls are decorated with ornate
brass torch sconces and two friezes of azure slate that depict
dwarves fighting dragons.
10. Drinking Hall
Two rows of four square pillars support the 30-foot-high ceil-
ing in this chamber. A 10-foot-wide effigy of an ancient dwarf
king, carved into a disk of azure slate, adorns the east wall
between two fireplaces with mantles covered in shiny brass
plates. The walls are decorated with bas-reliefs depicting
feasting and carousing dwarves. A massive stone table with
high-backed chairs fills the space between the rows of pillars.
The western double doors and a door to the south are the
rooms only exits.
Alchemists Fire Traps: Small windows and pipes
enter the room from areas 12b and 12d. A character
within 10 feet of such a pipe can see its brass opening
as well as the small square window above it. Otherwise,
a character must succeed on a DC 15 Wisdom (Percep-
tion) or Intelligence (Search) check to notice the pipes
and windows as something distinct from the normal
wall carvings.
Duergar in areas 12b and 12d can activate bellows
there to launch a 10-foot-wide line of fire up to 50 feet.
A creature in the area must make a DC 11 Dexterity
saving throw. On a failure, the fire deals 7 (2d6) fire
damage, and 1d4 fire damage at the start of each of an
affected creatures turns until it uses its action to make
a DC 11 Dexterity check to extinguish the f lames. Suc-
cess on the saving throw indicates the creature takes
only half damage and no further damage. Each bellows
has enough fuel for only one attack.
Creatures: After the duergar in areas 12b and 12d
activate the fire traps, they seal the window with a
brass plate. Those duergar and any duergar in 12c then
prepare for intruders to come through the secret door.
The duergar in area 11 hide. They ambush intruders in
area 11 or follow the party through the secret door if
the characters go that way without exploring area 11.
Secret Door: The stone secret door has a narrow
window in it like those of the traps. Someone who
shines light on the door can see that the window passes
through the wall here. The door is still hidden in the
wall carvings very well, requiring a successful DC 15
Intelligence (Search) check to find.
48
11. Audience Chamber
The walls of this room are covered by slate bas-reliefs depict-
ing ancient dwarf kings and queens. An ornate, high-backed
throne of azure stone stands in the middle of the east wall.
A fire has been lit in a fireplace with a brass-plated mantle
in the middle of the south wall. A kite-shield-shaped black
banner showing a broken crossbow bolt in red hangs from the
mantle. Four bedrolls are spread before the fireplace, and a
silver bowl sits on the f loor near them, holding down several
unrolled scrolls.
Creatures: Two duergar priests and two duergar
warriors can be found here at any given time, planning
alterations to the hold to convert it to duergar use and
the worship of Laduguer. Although the duergar deity
was supposedly slain over a century ago, he has begun
speaking to his people once again.
Treasure: One of the priests has a key to area 6.
The silver bowl (25 gp) is of dwarven make. It contains
seven gems (10 gp each), as well as numerous human
or half ling molars. Near it are three ink pots, several
quills, and chunks of chalk.
The scroll contains diagrams and plans for altering
the hold, including removing the statue of Haela from
area 7. Those who can read Dwarvish learn about the
portcullis trap near area 7, as well as its operation from
area 12a, from these plans.
12. Barracks Posts
This octagonal chamber contains a fireplace, a round table
with stools, and six bunk beds. Three narrow windows pierce
one wall.
12a and 12c: These rooms also contain levers and
winches connected to chains to operate the nearby
portcullis traps. In 12a, the lever can be used to drop
the portcullises near area 7, and the winch can lift the
same. A second lever locks or unlocks the traps pres-
sure plate (currently unlocked). The winch and first
lever in area 12c are nonfunctional because the trap
is damaged. The second lever in 12c can still lock or
unlock the traps pressure plate (currently unlocked).
12b and 12d: Each of these rooms has a 5-foot-
tall bellows apparatus fixed to one of the walls (south
in area 12b and west in area 12d). Each apparatus is
below a small square window with a closable brass
plate attached to it with hinges. A brass pipe leads from
each apparatus into the wall underneath the window.
These apparatuses are the source of the alchemists fire
traps in area 10.
Arrow Loops: The windows are arrow loops. From
area 12a, the trapped corridor near area 7 can be
observed, while 12bs loops look into area 7 itself. Area
12cs loops look into area 16 toward the corridor to area
15. The loops in area 12d allow a view of area 17.
Creatures: Four duergar warriors live in each of the
four rooms, with one duergar overseer asleep in area
12b or 12c. However, two warriors are assigned to area
5 at all times, and two more to area 15, so no more than
three warriors are in each post at a time, one of which
is asleep. Fewer duergar might be here due to encoun-
ters earlier in the adventure.
Secret Door: The corridor between areas 12c and
12d has a narrow passage leading to a secret door. From
this side, the secret door is obvious, because the duergar
have placed several stone wedges to inhibit entry from
area 16. When duergar from area 15 need to enter, they
call through the arrow loops to the duergar in area 12c
and have them remove the wedges.
Treasure: If the alchemists fire traps have not been
set off, the fuel for the trap is still in the apparatuses.
Each apparatus has a siphoning device attached, which
can be used to extract the alchemists fire into other
containers, but doing so requires a successful DC 15
Dexterity check for each pint extracted. On a failure by
5 or more, or if the fuel is exposed to air for more than a
moment, the trap ignites, dealing damage like the trap
in area 10, but in a 5-foot radius around the apparatus.
Up to four pints of alchemists fire can be extracted
from each device.
13. Side Entrance
This room contains a single chair near the entrance and an
immense stack of dried firewood along the southern wall.
14. Charcoal Storage
Large stone basins full of charcoal line the northern part of
this room.
15. Guardroom
This room contains a table with four stools, a fireplace in
the south wall f lanked by two weapon racks, and a couple of
braziers in the northwest and northeast corner.
Creatures: Two duergar warriors keep an eye on the
side entrance. If outnumbered, they retreat to area 16,
crying an alarm as they go.
Damaged Portcullises: The pair of portcullises
between areas 15 and 16 were dropped during the
duergar invasion. Both have a small section melted
and bashed away (a heat metal spell and hammer; DC
12 Intelligence [Arcana] to discern), making it pos-
sible for Medium creatures to move through single file.
The melting process damaged the mechanism, and the
duergar have yet to fix it. The pressure plate between
the portcullises is active (unless it has been locked in
area 12c). It can be found and disarmed, like the one in
area 7, but triggering it has no result.
49
16. Mine Cart Station
This area contains the terminus of a mine rail, which
descends through a passage in the north wall. An empty mine
cart sits on a rail in the middle of the room, connected to a
chain and a winch near the south wall. Beside the winch is a
corridor leading south. In the western part of the room are
four large, metal-bound wooden crates. The western wall has
narrow 3-foot-tall niches starting 3 feet off the f loor.
Arrow Loops: The niches are actually arrow loops
from the guard post at area 12c. Any character who
succeeds on a DC 15 Wisdom (Perception) check or
moves within 10 feet of the loops realizes this fact.
Creatures: Duergar warriors in area 12c can see
into this station through the arrow loops between this
area and area 12c.
Crates: Two crates are full of reddish chunks of iron
ore (DC 10 Intelligence [Nature] to identify).
Mine Cart: The winch can be operated to move
the cart down the rail slowly and steadily to area 29.
If the brake is loosened, the cart can ride down the
rail quickly, provided it has weight in it and someone
pushes it to get it started.
Secret Door: A secret door in the southwest corner
is the only way to the west side of the complex at this
level. The secret door requires a successful DC 15 Intel-
ligence (Search) check to find. Stone wedges inhibit
the doors movement, so it requires a successful DC 20
Strength check to force open.
17. Bloomery
The east wall of this 30-foot-high room is occupied by a
20-foot-tall vertical furnace. An array of ducts, which open in
the upper part of the southern wall, allow air in. A stairway
in the southeast corner climbs to the top of the furnace, and a
bellows system is attached to the furnace near the northeast
corner at f loor level. On the west wall are crates for storing
ore and shelves for iron buckets and shovels.
18. Deep Duerra Cave
The northern half of this 30-foot-high cave is roughly hewn
rock with a f lattened f loor. The southern half has been
smoothed and the walls lined with stone blocks. The north
part of the cave has a natural pool of rippling water. To the
west is a descending staircase.
A large niche in the northeast wall contains the statue of a
female dwarf in scale armor leaning on a battleaxe. An iron
helmet shaped like a strange skull has been placed over her
head. The base of the statue has recently been chipped away
and carved with a new inscription.
Pool: An underground spring feeds the pool, which
is 20 feet deep.
Staircase: As it descends, this staircase becomes
more roughly hewn. Although it is dwarven work, its
unfinished nature is clear, especially to a dwarf.
Statue: The statue is of Haela Brightaxe, but the
duergar have placed a helmet shaped like an illithid
skull (DC 20 Intelligence [Nature] to identify) over her
face and head. The new inscription reads Queen of
the Invisible Art in Dwarvish. That is a title for Deep
Duerra, the duergar goddess of conquest and psionics
(DC 20 Intelligence [Religion] to identify; dwarves have
advantage on the check).
Trap: A 10-foot-square section of f loor at the dead
end pivots on a central axle if more than 100 pounds is
placed on it. The traps edges are poorly mortared, and
it takes a DC 15 Intelligence (Search) check to find the
pivoting block. Its then a simple task, taking a few min-
utes with proper tools (thieves tools or masonry tools)
and a few stones or other shims, to shim the trap lid so
it wont open.
If the trap opens, it dumps anyone on it into a
15-foot-deep pit that has a rubble-filled bottom. Some-
one who succeeds on a DC 15 Dexterity saving throw
can jump clear, landing on the edge of the pit before the
f loor rotates. Anyone who falls takes 7 (2d6) bludgeon-
ing damage. The rough-hewn pit is easy to climb, but
the lid has to be opened again (DC 15 Strength check,
DC 20 if attempted while climbing).
19. Carpentry Cave
The f loor of this 30-foot-high cave has been f lattened, but
the walls and ceiling are natural. A few natural columns are
also here, and a rippling pool covers the southern part of the
chamber. Damp sawdust, marked with the footprints of many
booted feet, covers much of the f loor. Scattered here and there
are sawhorses, a stump, and tools such as wood axes, ham-
mers, saws, and rasps. Two 50-foot-long collapsible ladders
made of wood and steel, fitted with steel prongs at their ends,
lie on the f loor near the north wall.
Any soldier or historian can tell the two ladders are
intended for siege use.
20. Prisoner Pits
The west side of this old mining cave has four tunnels branch-
ing out of it in a wide arc from south to north. The main area
contains a restraining table and scaffolding akin to a gallows,
with hooks and pulleys dangling from it.
Cells: The tunnels lead to several roughly circular
cells dug slightly below f loor level, Each has a 3-foot-
wide circular entrance, over which is a hinged steel
grate with a padlock (Strength DC 22 to break, Dex-
terity DC 15 to pick the lock). Each pit contains filthy
straw bedding and a waste bucket.
50
Creatures: A duergar overseer and a duergar war-
rior keep watch here, and the overseer has keys to the
cage locks. If the hold is on alert, the creatures from
area 22 area also here. The duergar maintain their posi-
tion, hoping to receive help from the duergar in area
21. If the duergar in area 21 hear combat, they arrive in
this area during the third round with the steeders.
Slaves: Unless the duergar are taken by surprise, the
twenty-four prisoners are securely locked in the cells,
one prisoner per cell. Otherwise, half the slaves are at
work in area 22.
The prisoners are humans and half lings from
Julkoun. If given weapons, ten prisoners are willing
and able to fight the duergar. These brave souls are the
equivalent of human commoners.
21. Steeder Dens
This old mining cave features two narrow tunnel openings on
the west and north wall. Broader tunnels exit to the northeast
and southwest.
Two duergar warriors work here, caring for three steed-
ers. The giant spiders make their dens in three of the
smaller circular caves.
22. Iron Mine
This elongated cave has four mining tunnels dug in the north
wall and a mining cart terminal near the southeastern end.
The f loor is cluttered with rocky debris and heaps of red ore,
with iron buckets and stools scattered here and there. Two
broader tunnels lead out of the area, one rough tunnel to the
west and another smooth, carved tunnel to the south.
Creatures: If not in area 21, a duergar overseer and
two duergar warriors keep watch here. They are will-
ing to use the slaves for shields or bargaining chips. The
overseer has the keys to the slaves shackles.
The duergar maintain their position, hoping to
receive help from the steeder riders in area 21. If the
duergar in area 21 hear a battle, they arrive in this area
during the third round with the steeders.
Slaves: If the duergar are unaware of intruders,
twelve prisoners (humans and half lings from Julkoun)
are mining here. If aware of the approach of intruders
but lacking the time to move the prisoners, the duergar
order the slaves to lie and remain prone. Otherwise, the
prisoners have been taken to the pits in area 20.
The prisoners are chained together in a chain
gang. Each human prisoner has a shackle on one foot
(Strength DC 25 to break, Dexterity DC 15 to pick the
lock). The prisoners are afraid to fight, but might aid the
characters in various ways if the party gains the upper
hand. For example, a prone prisoner might grab a duer-
gars boot to distract him, aiding the characters attacks
against that duergar.
23. Utility Room
This room has two fireplaces in opposite corners, a well sur-
rounded by a low wall in the middle, a large barrel for water
in the northwest corner, a work table, and sets of wooden
shelves, one on the north wall and one on the east, just south
of a door. Another door is in the western wall. The shelves and
table are laden with preserved meat, roots, tubers, and mush-
rooms, as well as casks.
The casks contain strong beer and have the blazing
maul symbol of Firehammer Hold branded on them.
24. Barracks
This room has a table with stools and a set of wooden shelves,
on which are stored several mats, bedrolls, and blankets, as
well as food and a few casks. Doors are set in every wall except
the southern one.
Creatures: Two duergar overseers and five duergar
warriors use this barracks at a given time. One over-
seer and one warrior are awake, and the others use the
L-shaped hallway nearby as a sleeping area. If these
duergar become aware of trouble in the hold, they rally
in this chamber to protect Nalifarn, who is in area 25.
Once battle starts here, Nalifarn joins combat during
the second round.
Treasure: Among the mundane materials on the
shelves is Jekks gear, which anyone who has met him
can identify. It includes studded dragon leather fitted to
a burly dwarf and a +1 silvered greataxe.
25. Nalifarns Study
This room has a corner fireplace that has a mantle adorned
with a carving of a sword surrounded by two spiraling f lames,
over which a broken crossbow bolt has been painted in red. In
the southeastern part of the room sit a large bed and a chest.
A tall cabinet and an ornate desk with a high-backed chair
stand near the north wall. Many metal instruments and glass
containers sit on the desk, including a burner, spoons, bottles,
f lasks, and alembics. In the northeastern corner is a set of
shackles chained to the wall.
Creatures: Nalifarn resides here. He communes
with Baazka often, but he is not possessed.
Jekk: Chained to the wall is Jekk, badly injured with
burns, cuts, bruises, poisoning, and other abuse. He has
no gear besides a ragged, bloodstained tunic and pants.
He has only 1 hit point.
Jekk was captured when he approached Firehammer
Hold, unaware that the duergar had taken the place.
He was the sole survivor of a battle against the gray
dwarves, and he has been imprisoned here ever since.
Somewhat delirious, Jekk wonders aloud if hes dream-
ing when the characters find him.
51
Jekk knows the Red Wizards are the employers of
the duergar, because he was here when Nalifarn met
with Thegger Grynn, a male Red Wizard leading a
group of Thayan gnolls. The duergar gave the Thayans a
large shipment of arms in exchange for the contents of
a steel coffer. He also knows the Thayans have a fortress
somewhere in the Forlorn Hills, a place called Blood-
gate Keep. Jekk doesnt know the keeps exact location.
If healed and given his gear, Jekk is a willing com-
panion for as long as the characters battle the duergar
here. He is also a great source of hints if the characters
find areas 34 and 35.
Treasure: Nalifarn has three scrolls (cause fear, gust
of wind, and sound burst), two potions of healing, and a
pearl of power. He wears Jekks girdle, which has an elab-
orate gold and silver buckle shaped like a dwarf face
with green spinels for eyes (500 gp). He carries keys to
his chest and the coffer in the chest (Dexterity DC 15
to pick those locks), the door to area 6, the cages in area
20, and the shackles in area 22 and here.
On the desk is a silver bowl (75 gp); a silver chalice
(50 gp); a wooden box containing cheese, dried meat,
and bread; six f lasks labeled acid or alchemists fire
in Dwarvish (three of each); and a portable alchemists
lab. Under the desk is a cask of strong dwarven beer.
The chest contains clothing, bedding, a writing
kit (ink, quills, paper), and Nalifarns spellbook. The
spellbook holds all the spells Nalifarn has prepared
except his racial spells (darkness, heat metal, and invis-
ibility). In addition, the book contains cause fear, detect
magic, gust of wind, identify, mage armor, sound burst,
and suggestion. The book also has information on the
summoning circle in area 31, telling what it does and
granting advantage on Intelligence checks to disarm it.
Also in the chest is a locked steel coffer containing
280 gp, 345 sp, two gold loop earrings (Jekks; 10 gp
each), three yellow topazes (250 gp each), and Jekks
plaster copy of the Delimbiyr Bloke.
26. Shingling Chamber
This room contains a large anvil, two stone ore containers,
and a set of stone shelves. At the bottom of the shelves are
three smaller anvils and two large stone mortars with pestles.
A half-dozen hammers and as many elongated steel tongs
are stored on the higher shelves. A thick layer of dust and slag
covers the f loor.
27. Forge
To the west, this 30-foot-high room has a huge furnace
equipped with a chain-and-pulley system to harness and lift
two crucibles and move them around the room. Also in the
chamber are two anvils, a large stone basin for water, and a
variety of smithing tools and implements. Shelves to the south
contain several bars of iron.
Ten iron bars (5 pounds and 1 gp each) are here.
28. Storage
This room has a fireplace, a small table with chairs, and on
the east wall, a set of stone shelves. The shelves are packed
with stone molds of various sizes and shapes. Along the south
wall is a stairway leading up.
The molds are for all kinds of weapons and tools. The
stairway leads up to the hallways near area 12.
29. Mine Cart Exchange
A mining cart rail traverses this chamber from north to south.
In the middle of the room, at the base of a ramp ascending to
the south, is a levered machine. Several empty ore crates are
stacked along the west wall, and stone shelves in the southeast
corner contain tools and a few wooden crates. The rail contin-
ues to the north down a f lat corridor.
Machine: The machine in the middle of the room is
used to manually pull a cart onto the ramp and chain it
up for a run to area 16.
Shelves: The shelves contain grease, nails, thin iron
plates, and other tools to maintain the carts and rails.
Crates: Most of the crates are empty, but two contain
six pickaxes and sledgehammers each.
30. Shrine to Dumathoin
The east wall of this room is adorned with a 10-foot-tall bas-
relief in crystal. The carving is of a dwarf with a crystalline
body, a mattock in hand, and eyes made of green jewels. In
the northeast and southeast corners stand stone braziers.
Four stone chairs are lined up on the west wall.
Relief: The relief is of Dumathoin (as any dwarf
knows, as does anyone who succeeds on a DC 10 Intel-
ligence [Religion] check). Dumathoin is the dwarven
deity of buried wealth and exploration, and he is the
guardian of the dead.
Treasure: The relief s eyes are table-cut green
chrysoberyl (500 gp each). The jewels are easily pried
loose. However, anyone who knows of Dumathoin
knows he hates defilers and thieves. Someone who
removes or sells either jewel is cursed to have disadvan-
tage on death rolls and Intelligence (Search) checks.
The thief can atone by donating the jewels or equivalent
wealth to a temple dedicated to the dwarven deities.
31. Ossuary
This room, lined with slabs of fine marble, has square niches
for storing the bones of the dead. Half the niches have been
sealed with slabs inscribed with the names of dead dwarves,
although some of these sealed niches have been broken open.
A circle of infernal symbols has been drawn in dark ink or
blood in the center of the f loor, with a corresponding line of
runes over the threshold to both doorways, one to the north
and the other to the south.
52
Circle: The arcane circle can be studied from the
doorway. Anyone who succeeds on a DC 15 Intel-
ligence (Arcana) check can tell the circle is one of
summoning. If the check succeeds by 5 or more, the
character knows the circle calls to the Nine Hells. The
runes over the threshold radiate faint conjuration magic
if a detect magic spell is used on them. The trigger runes
on the doorway can be disarmed with a successful DC
20 Intelligence (Arcana) check, but if the attempt fails
by 5 or more, the summoning circle activates.
Creatures: When any creature other than Nalifarn
enters, the bones in the broken niches explode into the
room and the infernal circle f lares (1d6 bludgeoning
damage to each creature in the room, Dexterity DC 12
for half damage). Six lemures appear in the room and
attack intruders.
32. Worm Pit
Walls of this cave are painted with primitive murals depicting
the battle between a group of ancient-looking dwarf warriors
armed with javelins and short swords and a huge wormlike
creature from the depths of the earth. One corner holds a
seemingly bottomless pit.
The pit is one thousand or more feet deep. On the backs
of steeders, duergar used the pit to invade the hold.
33. Deep Landing
The spiral staircase descends more than 50 feet to a square
landing. A life-sized statue of a masked dwarf warrior armed
with a battleaxe stands in a niche in the east wall, beside a set
of stone double doors leading north.
Words carved on the statue base read, in Dwarvish,
Friendship is more than a word. Weigh it carefully.
34. Cenotaph
This 40-foot-tall arched hall has walls adorned with bas-
reliefs of dwarf warriors. The warriors are arranged on the
west and east wall in two 10-foot-high friezes of twelve war-
riors each. On the f loor is a grid of stone slabs, eight slabs
wide and six slabs across. Each slab has a stylized engraving
of a round shield with a sword above it and javelins f lank-
ing it. A rectangular cartouche on each slab contains a single
word written in Dwarvish runes.
Dwarvish Words: Anyone who can read Dwarvish
knows the words are names. The number of names
matches the number of warriors depicted in the friezes.
Stone Grid: Characters need to walk on the correct
path across the grid to unlock the doors on the opposite
side. Those slabs whose names begin with the letters
that form the Dwarvish word binatta (friendship, as it
Floor Diagram
53
appears on the Delimbiyr Blokes inscription) form the
proper path. In other words, the players must match the
first rune on the Delimbiyr Bloke, which looks like an
L, to the first tile that begins with that same rune. The
first letter of the next chosen tile must then match the
second letter in the word binatta on the Bloke, and so
forth. The f loor diagram shows the proper path.
Whenever someone steps on a slab, it clicks. If it
is the correct slab, an answering click is heard in the
northern double doors. The northern double doors have
six mechanical locks, each unlocked by one correct slab
in this room. If it is an incorrect slab, the grid resets,
with each opened lock audibly locking again.
After being open for 10 minutes, the doors close and
lock again (see area 35 for more information).
Trapped Double Doors: The northern double
doors have six bar locks, which can be levered open
through the door seams and shimmed to stay open
(Dexterity DC 20 to open each one).
35. Chapel of the Watcher
From the doors, a set of steps leads down to a 30-foot-high
chapel divided into three aisles by two rows of three pillars. A
20-foot wide niche in the northern part of the room is walled
in dark stone, carved with stylized mountains, and has a f loor
of gravel. In the niche stands the statue of a stylized dwarf
warrior with a rectangular recess where its face should be.
Door and Grid Reset: After the doors have been
unlocked for 10 minutes, they and the grid in area
34 reset. Grid squares click simultaneously. The door
closes unless constantly held open, and locks again.
Two levers lower from the walls f lanking the doors as
the doors close.
The function of the levers depends on how the room
was entered. If the grid was used to open the doors,
the levers each unlock three locks in the double doors,
allowing them to open and resetting the timer for 10
minutes. If the doors were forced open, then when the
grid and locks reset, the levers retract immediately after
lowering. The door is sealed more tightly on the inside,
making access to the locks more difficult (Dexterity DC
25 to open each one).
In that latter case, a fire then ignites around the
statue. Any creature caught in the fire takes 1d6 fire
damage, as does any creature that starts its turn in the
fire. The fire consumes most of the oxygen in the room
after 5 minutes. At that time, the fire goes out and the
rooms occupants can no longer breathe.
Statue: On the statue, in Dwarvish, is the phrase
Greetings, Friends and Allies of the Watchers. The
recess in the statue is just the size of the Delimbiyr
Bloke. If the true Bloke is inserted into the recess in the
statues head, the statue and Bloke glow slightly. The
roared battle cry of an army can be heard as if from a
great distance. The Blokes eyes ignite in spectral f lame
as bright as a candle, and it then radiates conjuration
magic if a detect magic spell is used on it. It has become
the Face of Gorm. Those who properly charge the item
learn its story and function.
Jekk: If Jekk is present when the Face of Gorm is
recharged, he is ecstatic to be part of such a glorious
discovery. His face darkening, he also recommends
the characters keep the object hidden from Maldwyn.
Such a treasure was not meant to gather dust in the
library of a man like the duke.
Face of Gorm
Rare wondrous item
This rectangular stone depicts a stylized dwarven
face. Written in Dwarvish on the beard is the saying,
Friendship is more than a word. Weigh it carefully.
When the stone is charged, its eyes light with spectral
f lame, a tribute to Gorm Gulthyn, the Eternally Vigi-
lant, the dwarven deity to whom the stone is dedicated.
When someone speaks the command phrase, Aid
us, Fire Eyes, the fire in the stones eyes brightens into
an orb of daylight. Within the light, dwarf warriors
appear to aid the one who called them forth.
Property: As an action, you speak the stones com-
mand phrase. The stone emits a sphere of bright light
54
the equivalent of a daylight spell. Within the bright
light, 2d4 + 2 Gulthyn astral constructs materialize,
appearing to be the spirits of dwarf warriors. These
warriors follow your orders for 10 minutes, doing
anything they are capable of, and then disappear. If a
warrior drops to 0 hit points, it disappears early.
Once the stone has been used to summon the war-
riors, it becomes inert. The property is then unavailable
until the stone is taken to the Chapel of the Watcher in
Firehammer Hold and recharged in the statue there.
Secret: The constructs the stone summons are
unwilling to serve an evil creature. If such a creature
calls the warriors forth, they attack their summoner.
FLOSHIN ESTATE
The home of the Floshin family has stood in stately
peace for as long as any human history records. Parts
of the graceful structure date back over a thousand
years to when the elven empire of Illefarn stretched
across the North. Darfin Floshin, the current lord of
the Floshin Estate, can recall when Daggerford was
founded, and his father, Elorfindar, gave the magic
sword called Lawf lame to the first Duke of Daggerford.
The blade has served as part of the regalia of its rulers
for every generation since. Thus, the Floshin elves have
been a quiet part of life in the region, as expected as
sun in the summer and as certain as spring rain.
Few folk in Daggerford have ever stopped to wonder
why the gold elves remained in the area. Theyve always
been there. The long-lived and wise Elorfindar had
been available to the dukes for consultation ever since
anyone had been called a Duke of Daggerford. One or
more of his elf and half-elf children bought and main-
tained houses in the town over the centuries, employing
families of human caretakers for generations.
The Floshin elves had reason to linger. Long ago,
House Dlardrageth, elves who mated with demons
to gain power, drew their family into terrible acts of
evil. To atone for those actions, an innocent member
of House Floshin swore to protect the House of Long
Silences. This structure in the depths of the nearby
Ardeep Forest was the destination of many portals
and served as a means for elves to f lee to Evermeet. It
also gave access to an extraplanar nexus of portals cre-
ated by elven high magic in ancient times. Elorfindar,
a mage of great power, erected wards over the House
of Long Silences that would alert him to its use and
prohibit the demon-tainted elves from entering any
of the surrounding lands. Then, about a century ago,
elves of House Dlardrageth entered the nexus from
another point, and to prevent them from controlling it,
the nexus was shattered. Elorfindar spent the last years
of his life trying to coax life back into the portals of the
House of Long Silences.
When Elorfindar died, the duty of watching over
the House of Long Silences and the rule of the Floshin
Estate fell to his eldest child, Darfin. Not a wizard of his
fathers caliber, Darfin is accustomed to long trips away
from Daggerford. Hes all but certain nothing is left to
defend at the House of Long Silences.
Floshins Fall
While Darfin was away during the characters initial
adventures, Baazka used Shalendra to turn the wards
centered on the House of Long Silences against Floshin
family members other than herself, creating a vast field
of magical antipathy. She then invited in Red Wizards
and their servants so that they could complete the ini-
tial parts of their plan to resurrect the portal network.
To be certain the Red Wizards hold up their end of the
bargain, Shalendra has altered the wards on the House
of Long Silences so that none but her can enter. These
wards prevent the Red Wizards from accessing the
restored extraplanar nexus, limiting them to portals
Shalendra tells them about or new portals they connect
to the network.
Now the Red Wizards are testing the magic of the
restored network. Theyre using it to transfer elemental
creatures from their base in Bloodgate Keep to a gate
in the depths of the Floshin Estate. This old gate is the
same one Elorfindar once used to teleport himself to
the House of Long Silences.
Shalendra has realized something is wrong with
her. The horror of the Red Wizards minions and their
murder of the Floshin servants have given her pause.
However, Baazkas inf luence over her is strong enough
that she has yet to change course.
Reaching the Estate
Characters can journey straight from Daggerford to
the estate along an old, well-traveled road. Alterna-
tives include the Trade Way and another old road, or
an overland trip. The first half of the journey traverses
what would be densely populated country if not for the
recent crisis.
Near the estate, the first route runs parallel to the
craggy slopes and crosses a rill east of a plot of land that
is being planted with trees, shrubs, and hedges. Where
this garden-to-be borders a wooded area, the rill falls
into a sinkhole (the Swans Nest) and reemerges almost
immediately downhill. The path from the west passes
into the estate gardens, which consist of trees, hedges,
and various plants, edible and otherwise.
As they approach the manor, the characters might
encounter a patrol or investigate the Swans Nest, which
comprises the Floshin family crypts.
55
56
Gnoll Patrol
Thayan gnolls have set up their base at the Swans Nest
but patrol the entire area. A patrol consists of two gnolls
and a two hyenas. Characters heading to the manor
along any trail marked on the environs map encoun-
ter a patrol. The gnolls try to ambush the characters,
making a fighting retreat toward the Swans Nest or the
manor house, whichever seems more likely to succeed,
if overmatched.
Treasure
Each gnoll that has no other treasure has coins and
simple jewelry worth 3d8 gp.
Swans Nest
The Floshin family built the Swans Nest as crypts for
family members who died before going to Evermeet.
The crypts have been dug in the rocky wall of a natural
sinkhole. A rill f lows into the depression, forming two
waterfalls and a pond.
A. Descent
A sequence of rocky landings and wooden ramps, one of
which passes over a tiny waterfall, allows a gradual descent
into this depression, the f loor of which is 20 feet below the
upper edge. Below, water f lows into a pond that has one
statue in it and two nearby.
Gnoll tracks are prevalent here and on the paths inside
the depression.
B. Pond
The water in this pond looks deep. A statue depicting two
swans sits atop a partially submerged rock. The statue of an
elf hunter stands on the southwestern shore, and a nymph
statue stands on the northeastern one.
The water is 20 feet deep, except near the statue of the
swan, where it is 4 feet deep. Water f lows from the
nearby stream into the pond and out again through an
underground channel.
C. Shrine of Life
This elegant stone building has a stone door that depicts a
stylized setting sun. A chimney rises from the slate roof.
Creature: A gnoll keeps watch from inside the
shrine. If he spots intruders, he retreats to warn his
allies in area D. In 10 minutes, if intruders havent
entered area D by then, he and the occupants of area D
return to this area to investigate.
Symbol: The door symbol is that of Labelas Enoreth,
the Lord of the Continuum, elven deity of time, choice,
history, and life. Any elf knows this, as does anyone who
succeeds on a DC 10 Intelligence (Religion) check.
Inside are shelves holding gardening tools. On the far wall is a
relief of a robed elf meditating in a meadow with the sun set-
ting in the background. To the south is a stone fireplace.
Fireplace: The gnolls keep a fire smoldering in area
D below. The outlet for that fireplace is connected to
this ones chimney, so the characters might notice heat
in the unlit fireplace and smell wood smoke (DC 10
Wisdom [Perception] check).
Secret Trapdoor: A secret trapdoor (DC 10 Intel-
ligence [Search] to find, due to much recent use) in the
northeastern corner leads to a stone tube with grooves
that form a ladder. After 10 feet, the tube ends in a
20-foot passage that descends to area D.
D. Secret Shelter
If the gnolls were here recently, the fire in the fireplace
dimly lights the whole area.
This underground room has several bedrolls in it, along with
chests, casks, and crates. A stone fireplace takes up most of the
southern wall, and an iron kettle hangs from the western side
of the mantle over it. Firewood is piled carelessly nearby.
Creatures: Unless theyve already left the area,
three gnolls are here, along with three hyenas. If they
havent been warned, two gnolls and all the hyenas are
asleep, and the third gnoll is eating or making arrows.
If theyve been warned, all the creatures here are awake
and waiting for intruders.
Storage Containers: The crates and casks contain
dried meat and dwarven beer, respectively. Each crate
and cask has a stylized blazing maul branded on it (the
symbol of Firehammer Hold). A few open casks contain
water or waste.
Treasure: Most of the chests contain ragged clothing
and mundane implements the gnolls use for day-to-day
living. The iron kettle contains one hundred iron arrow
heads, a whetstone, a jar of honey, and 277 sp.
E. Shrine of Wisdom
An archway, shored up and lined with white stone, has been
carved into the earth here. The archway is damaged, and
looks as if it once held a door.
A tunnel lined in white stone leads from the surface to
area E proper. During the day, the area is brightly lit.
This underground room is beautifully decorated with bas-
reliefs representing a primeval forest. Elves and other fey
creatures are subtly depicted in the scenes, barely visible.
Stone urns line the walls.
57
In a niche in the southern wall is the statue of a female elf
leaning on a staff. She holds a dagger in her right hand near
the top of the staff so it resembles a spear. Chain mail is visible
underneath her robes. Behind her is a symbol of an upside-
down triangle with three overlapping circles inside it.
The walls, urns, and statue have been damaged in places,
as if someone hacked at them with axes or picks. A stone door
in the northern wall is similarly damaged and slightly open.
Shaft: During the day, light can enter this cham-
ber through the shaft above the statue. The shaft has a
transparent crystal plug in it.
Statue: The statue is that of Angharradh, the queen
of the elven deities, and a triune goddess said to be
the united face of Aerdrie Faenya, Hanali Celanil, and
Sehanine Moonbow. Any elf knows this, as does anyone
who succeeds on a DC 10 Intelligence (Religion) check.
F. Floshin Crypts
The doors in this hallway stand open.
Crypts: The four rooms here are crypts. Each con-
tains a stone slab and an ornate stone brazier.
Creature: A Thayan wraith lurks in this area.
Manor Locations
Floshin Manor looks hauntingly elegant and strangely
beautiful to the human eye. Centuries of work by
skilled elf artisans covered the structure with textures
and decorations that depict the surrounding f lora and
fauna, the stars, and the elves of ancient Illefarn. The
entire structure is built of stone, wood, and crystal.
Unless otherwise noted, the ceilings of the manor are
15 feet high. The doors consist of reinforced wood.
The monsters here are all allies. They attack the
characters but not one another.
1. Fortified Entrance
The forepart of the manorstone but built in the willowy
architecture of the elveshas a slate roof. Narrow windows
face the path to the central door, which is made of white wood
and steel, has a gold two-headed griffon rampant on it.
The soft roar of rapidly f lowing water can be heard
coming from somewhere beyond the building.
The front door is unlocked. The interior is as follows:
The elongated foyer contains a few elegant stools and stone
wall hooks for cloaks. To the north and south are narrow
windows, and to the west is a wide rectangular archway. A
portcullis of steel closes it off from the room beyond it.
Advance Warning: Those who open the front
door might notice the steel portcullis drawn above it
(Wisdom [Perception] DC 15). Any search of the door-
way reveals the portcullis.
Arrow Loops: Anyone who succeeds on a DC 15
Wisdom (Perception) check or moves within 10 feet
of the windows recognizes them as arrow loops and
knows that a room lies beyond them.
Creatures: A gnoll and a dread warrior keep watch
in each room f lanking this area (3a and 3b). The gnolls
shoot through the arrow loops, while the dread war-
riors move into area 2 and attack anyone who moves
near the portcullis.
Portcullis Trap: When intruders enter or begin to
work on the portcullis in the front doorway, the gnoll in
3b f lips a lever, dropping the portcullis. If a creature is
under the portcullis when it falls, including a character
working to jam it in an up position, the creature must
succeed on a DC 10 Dexterity saving throw or take 10
(3d6) piercing damage. If the saving throw fails by 5
SHALENDRAS JOURNAL
Shalendra has a journal in which she records her activi-
ties since returning to the Daggerford area. The diary
starts out coherently, telling of Shalendras arrival and
the reason for it, reflecting the information in her
entry in the Local Notables section of the Daggerford
description.
The writing degenerates over time, speaking of
nightmares and hearing dark voices. Some entries
detail dreams of Thayans and Bloodgate Keep. Eventu-
ally, Shalendra writes of meeting with the Red Wizards
to strike a bargain. Newer entries convey the events at
the manor described in the Floshins Fall section of
this adventure, as well as of Shalendras destruction of
portraits of her fathers human lovers and half-elf chil-
dren (see area 6). As the entries become more recent,
Shalendras growing horror at her actions, including
her participation in the desecration of Corellons shrine
(area 36), shows through.
Very recently, Shalendra realized Baazka has pos-
sessed her. The diary includes details of Baazkas history.
It also holds notes on Shalendras compulsive work in
her workshop (area 28).
Place this journal wherever you wish. Shalendra
might carry it. Alternatively, it might be located in the
master bedroom (area 9), office (area 18), library (area
22), or workshop (area 28). To emphasize Shalendras
madness, she could recently have torn the journal apart,
so pieces of it can be discovered in various places.
58
or more, the creature takes maximum damage and is
restrained under the fallen portcullis. A creature that
saves can move to an area adjacent to the portcullis,
inside or outside the foyer. Lifting the portcullis enough
to allow a Medium or smaller creature to squeeze
underneath takes a successful DC 15 Strength check.
2. Foyer
This broad room contains an elegant wooden table with
chairs, as well as an empty wooden bookshelf carved to resem-
ble a wisteria-overgrown garden arch.
The doorway toward area 4 opens onto a bridge. A
waterfall is audible through the bridges windows and
visible through the northern window.
A roofed stone bridge passes over a waterfall streaming over a
cliff to the north of the estate. The corridor the bridge creates
has a window in its north and south walls. An open area is to
the west where the bridge ends.
3. Guardrooms
This long room contains a chest, a pair of stools, and a
weapon rack. A fireplace is in one corner.
Creatures: See area 1.
Portcullis Mechanism: A lever and winch mecha-
nism is mounted on the wall between the arrow loops.
The winch mechanism in 3a is used to slowly raise and
instantly drop the portcullis between areas 1 and 2.
The one in 3b is used to do the same for the portcullis
between the front door and the outside.
Weapon Rack: Each weapon rack holds a spear, six
javelins, and two quivers of 20 arrows.
4. Great Stairwell
This broad, circular landing and stairwell is built under a
copper and crystal dome that lets in natural light. Three win-
dows open in the northern wall, the center one paned with
stained-glass figures of elves and forest animals. Two windows
open to the south, but in the center of that wall is a wide cor-
ridor leading out of the room. Other corridors lead east and
west. In the spaces between the windows and halls sit large
clay vases holding living decorative vines, which drape the
walls up to the base of the dome.
The great stairwell connects all three stories of the
manor, descending from here to areas 15 and 25.
5. Sitting Room
The two fireplaces of this luxurious lounge are built in
blocks of opalescent marble, while the round table, shelves,
and chairs are made of wood and engraved with an oak leaf
design. Three leather armchairs sit in the southern part of the
room. A marble bust on a stand on the west wall depicts an elf
with deep, wise eyes and a receding hairline.
A door is in the middle of each of the eastern, western, and
southern walls. To the north is an arched window.
Creatures: Four dread warriors sit at the table.
Shelves: The shelves contain books, knickknacks,
and various games.
Statue: The bust depicts Elorfindar Floshin. A
plaque on its pedestal bears an inscription in Elvish
with his name and the date 1468.
6. Terrace
This area is a semicircular parapeted terrace. Near the south
end are a stone table with high-backed chairs and a brazier
built in copper and silver. A large stained-glass lantern stands
on the north end.
Day View: During the day, the terrace offers a pan-
oramic view of the estate gardens and the lands beyond.
Evidence in the Brazier: The brazier has been used
to burn a large amount of material recently. Remnants
include small metal plates with names engraved on
them. Some of the names are elven and others are those
of human females.
7. Study
This chamber is furnished with two leather armchairs, a low
table, a bookcase, and a desk. Several bedrolls are unfurled or
stored near a fireplace in the southeastern corner.
Four gnolls rest here between stints of guard duty in
area 3.
8. Bedroom Corridor
This corridor has a few windows and doors, the latter along
the wooden southern wall. The walls are adorned with dozens
of portraits.
Creatures: Three shadows lurk here.
Portraits: Painted in oil on wooden planks, the
portraits depict members of the Floshin family includ-
ing Darfin, his brothers Elorshin and Filvendor, and
his sister Shalendra. Shalendras portrait has a broken
frame, as if it was knocked from the wall recently. Dis-
coloration on one section of the wooden wall near area
9 shows that some of the pictures that were here have
been removed.
Someone who has seen the remains in the brazier
in area 6 notes that the portraits here have name plates
like those found there.
59
9. Master Bedroom
Walls in this room are entirely planked in elegantly carved
and polished wood, while the stone ceiling has pieces of crys-
tal in it to allow in sunlight. A huge wooden bed, its linens
in disarray, sits against the north wall. Matching bedside
tables f lank it, one with a vase of wire f lowers on it. A marble
fireplace is in the southeast corner. Near the fireplace is an
ornate wardrobe, its cabinet doors and drawers adorned with
colorful images of elves hunting, singing, and dancing in the
woods. A pleasing scent of a forest in summer hangs in the air.
Beyond the bed is an open door to the north. The angled
southwestern wall also has a door in it.
Creature: An air grue f lies from area 11, through
the chimney into this room, and then back out again.
If combat begins here, the fire grue in area 11 is
likely to hear it. It opens the door and joins the battle at
the start of the second round.
Magic: A detect magic spell shows the whole room
radiates faint evocation magic. The magic is the source
of the scent. Someone who knows the proper command
words can use the magic to alter the scent and lighting.
Treasure: The wire f lowers are worth 50 gp. The
chest of drawers contains various clothing, much of
which is for a female. The top drawer holds simple but
elegant jewelry in light gold with moonstones (500
gp), as well as a gold-trimmed ivory brooch with a
two-headed golden griffon on it (150 gp). The bottom
drawer contains travel clothing and a bag of holding.
These objects belong to Shalendra, and she recognizes
them if the characters bring them into her presence.
10. Closet
This room, entirely planked in wood, is almost completely
lined with ornate cabinets and drawers. A large mirror hangs
on the north wall, next to the eastern stained-glass window
that depicts a finely dressed elf lord and lady.
The wardrobe contains clothes and toiletries for males
and females, all of the best quality. The clothing alone
is worth hundreds of gold pieces, but taking it all would
require a cart. Of note, however, is a gray-green cloak
that is remarkably light for the thickness of its fabric.
This garment is a cloak of elvenkind.
11. Corner Balcony
This round, parapeted balcony is furnished with a canopied
wicker sofa and a stained-glass lantern.
Creature: The statue of a bronze humanoid stands
near the center of the balcony. This statue is one form
of a fire grue.
Day View: During the day, the balcony provides a
breathtaking view of the estate gardens, including an
unfinished expansion east of the stream.
12. Small Bedroom
This small bedroom has a twin bed, a wardrobe, and a small
desk with a chair.
Area 12b contains one zombie, a well-dressed human
female. If a battle breaks out here, the zombies from
area 13 arrive the following round.
13. Large Bedroom
This long bedroom is furnished with a full bed, a small chest,
a wardrobe, and a bedside table.
Creatures: Area 13a contains three zombies, all
humans dressed like well-kept servants. In 13b are two
similar zombies. A fight here attracts the zombie from
area 12b.
Treasure: Area 13b has a crystal decanter (50 gp)
and wine glass (25 gp).
14. Bathroom
This bathroom is tiled with white and azure ceramic adorned
with f loral motifs. A large ceramic tub is in one of the corners
opposite the entrance, and a wooden toilet stall is in the other.
The tub has a brass spigot. Sitting on a set of elegant wall
shelves are several painted clay urns, bathing implements,
and various soaps.
Spigot: The spigot radiates faint transmutation
magic if a detect magic spell is used on it. With proper
command phrases, the spigot takes water from the
nearby waterfall and pipes it into the tub at a specified
temperature.
Toilet Stall: The stall radiates faint transmutation
magic if a detect magic spell is used on it. With proper
command phrases, the magic here cleans and freshens
this fancy privy.
15. Great Stairwell
Here the stairwell meets another landing decorated with four
old suits of decorative elven plate armor, which stand against
the northern and eastern walls between windows. To the west
and south are wooden doors, while a larger, sturdier door is
set in the southwestern part of the landing.
Creatures: Two suits of animated plate armor are
connected to the wards in the house. Unless taken
by surprise, Shalendras familiar Tyrob, an imp, lurks
here invisibly. He hides in one of the animated suits of
armor and attacks from within the shelter of the hollow
helmet, which gives him three-quarters cover.
Development: As soon as the armor he hides in is
destroyed, Tyrob turns invisible and f lees. He goes to
warn Shalendra in area 37.
60
16. Preparation Room
This room is furnished with a wooden table, a couple chairs,
and shelves filled with cutlery and dishes in ceramic, silver,
and gold. A wooden cabinet with small doors stands in the
southwest corner. It has a crank on its side. Each of the east-
ern and western walls has a door in it.
Dumbwaiter: The cabinet houses the mechanism
of a dumbwaiter used to lift materials from the kitchen
(area 27). A Small or smaller creature can fit inside the
dumbwaiter. The winch on the side operates the mech-
anism. When the characters first arrive here, unless
theyve manipulated the mechanism from area 27, the
dumbwaiter platform is empty and on this level.
Treasure: The cutlery and dishes weigh almost 100
pounds and are worth 1,500 gp. Someone who takes
10 minutes to rummage can find a few choice pieces
wrought in gold (1 pound, 250 gp).
17. Great Hall
A massive, long oak table with a score of high-backed chairs
sits in the middle of this room, spanning almost its entire
length. A round table with padded stools sits in a rounded
area to the west. The room has two marble fireplacesa huge
one in the east wall and a smaller one in the northeast corner.
A large chest of drawers stands in the northwest corner, and
many shelves here hold decorative objects. A door is on the
eastern wall, north of the great fireplace, and another one is
on the south wall.
Creatures: Two piles of horrid-looking filth are on
the f loor near the table when the characters arrive.
These piles are earth grues in their natural form.
Treasure: Decorative objects here weigh 100
pounds and are worth 1,000 gp. Notable is a pair of
silver candlesticks set with red garnets (200 gp for the
set) placed on the mantle over the smaller fireplace.
18. Office
This room contains fine wooden bookcases, a desk, and three
narrow chests of drawers in the southwest corner. One book-
case has a small section of niches for scrolls. A door is set in
each of the northern and southern walls, and a window opens
in each of the eastern and western walls.
Documents: This room contains the records of at
least a century of the manors administration, although
some parchments date back to the times of old Illefarn.
Treasure: In the scroll niches are three ornate scroll
cases of ivory, each inlaid with a rampant two-headed
griffon in gold (50 gp each). One case contains a scroll of
protection from undead. The niches also contain scrolls of
rope trick, plant growth, and protection from evil (2).
19. Servants Lounge
Two leather armchairs sit in front of a corner fireplace in this
room. Near the middle sits a table with two chairs. An angu-
lar bookshelf occupies the northeast corner, and an ornate
wood console table hangs from the west wall. A door is set in
the west wall, with another door to the north.
Trapdoor: Hidden under a rug in the southwest
corner is a stone trapdoor, but the hinges and brass
opening ring are easily felt through the rug (Intelli-
gence [Search] DC 10 to find). The door opens onto a
brass ladder set in stone, leading down to area 32.
Treasure: A lanceboard set made of crystal, wood,
and gold (150 gp) is among the books, games, and tools
(for tasks such as polishing and sewing) here.
20. Courtyard Garden
This courtyard garden grows on a high bed of soil . Among
several bushes and patches of herbs stands a blueleaf tree with
a large boulder at its base.
The boulder, which has black eyes like onyx gems, is
actually the head of an earth elemental. The creature
ignores others unless attacked or otherwise harassed.
Then it rises from the soil and attacks. It chases foes
who f lee, even battering through doors.
21. Servants Corridor
This corridor is decorated with widely different ceramic tiles,
painted with crests, names, and dates.
The tiles vary in age from nearly a thousand years to
50 years ago. All the names, dates, and dedications are
written in Elvish characters.
22. Library
A round table sits in the middle of the circular section of the
room that corresponds to the southwest tower of the manor. In
that section are five stained-glass windows depicting regal elf
wizards, with a sixth figure painted on the window in the west
wall. In the middle of the room sit two desks with two chairs
each. Two tall bookcases stand opposite to each other, one on
the west and the other on the east wall. A door is set in the
east wall and in the north wall.
Shelves: The shelves contain countless books on
countless subjects. Although interesting and, in some
cases, historic, none of these books is highly valuable.
Many appear to be copies of older works that would be
valuable if they were originals.
Windows: The wizards are kings who are identifi-
able by inscriptions (in Elvish) as the six Irithyl Rysars
of Old Cormanthor (Kahvoerm, Sakrattars, Sinaht,
Miirphys, Tannivh, and Eltargrim), who ruled Myth
Drannor over a period of three millennia.
61
23. Servants Quarters
This simple but comfortable room is furnished with three
double bunk beds, with matching small chests and stools.
Area 23b is now the lair of two shadows, which rise
from under the beds.
24. Bathroom
This bathroom is tiled in green and brown hues and contains
a toilet stall and an elaborate wooden tub with ivory inlays
and a brass spigot.
The room has minor magic in it like that of area 14.
25. Great Stairwell Landing
The great stairwell ends in a circular room tiled with varie-
gated marble tiles. Four stained-glass sconces are fixed to the
wall at regular intervals.
26. Fountain
A 7-foot-tall fountain, adorned with the statue of a jumping
dolphin, occupies the south section of the wall at this junction.
Water spurts out of the dolphins mouth into 3-foot-diameter
basin, then drains through the bottom of the basin. One corri-
dor goes north here, while the hallway with the fountain goes
east and west.
A water grue lurks in the fountain.
27. Kitchen
This wide kitchen has two large wooden tables, two other
smaller tables near the walls, two large barrels, and many
chairs and stools. Two large stone fireplacesa huge one on
the east wall and a smaller one in the northeast cornerare
blackened and sooty. An L-shaped washbasin with three fau-
cets is in the southwest corner. The room has four small round
windows near the ceiling. Various shelves and cupboards hold
implements for cooking.
The faucets receive running water like areas 14 and 24.
28. Workshop
In this room is a sturdy work desk laden with tools in the
northwest corner, along with two sets of shelves in the south-
west and southeast corners, a wooden crate half full of
quicklime pieces, and a wooden tub. There is also a small
wooden pallet with a bedroll, a pillow, and a blanket.
On the two sets of shelves are tools and supplies, including
sculpting tools and raw clay. On one shelf is the clay statue
of a humanoid devil pierced through the heart with a sword.
Nearby is a plaster cast of the dry but fragile statue.
Someone who succeeds on a DC 15 Intelligence
(Arcana or Religion) check can identify the devil as
the rough likeness of a pit fiend. With a successful
DC 20 Intelligence (History) check, a character can
identify this as a scene that played out centuries ago in
Dragonspear Castle, when an invading infernal horde
was stopped when the blade of the sword Illydrael was
broken off in the heart of a pit fiend.
29. Wine Cellar
This spacious cellar, supported by a central pillar, contains a
round table with stools, two stone basins for mixing liquids,
six aging casks on the south wall, and shelves for bottles,
demijohns and tools. A copper cauldron is suspended above
the fireplace in the northeast corner.
Many of the containers, including four casks, contain
wine. Three crystal bottles contain exceptional elven
wine (3 pounds and 100 gp each).
30. Laundry
This chamber has a large washbasin with running water
spanning the entire west wall. A narrow work table, a cup-
board, and shelves make up the rest of the furniture.
Creatures: Two water grues rest in the basin.
Shelves: The shelves contain washing tools, such as
boards and irons, as well as soap.
31. Storeroom
The f loor of this room is partly occupied by a large stack of
firewood in the southwest corner, and by piles of dry timber
along the north wall.
32. Storeroom
On the many shelves mounted in this room are various
household items, such as candles, oil, soap, and sacks. In the
northwest corner, brass rungs lead up to the ceiling where
there is a closed hatch.
The hatch is hinged and can be pushed up under the
rug in area 19.
33. Pantry
This room contains a simple table with stools, several barrels,
and large shelves. A central pillar supports the ceiling. Many
preserved foods are stored here. A narrow window is placed
high on the western wall.
Secret Door: A secret door (Intelligence [Search]
DC 15 to find) in the northeastern corner leads to a
passage to area 34. The doors at both ends of the pas-
sage are stone slabs plainly visible and easily operable
from within the secret passage. After pressing a stone
wedge hidden in the wall, each door spins on a pivot
axle in its center.
62
Treasure: Among the foods stored here are two
tiny jars that radiate abjuration and evocation magic if
viewed with a detect magic spell. Each jar contains two
doses of honey that, if consumed, acts like both a potion
of healing and a lesser restoration spell.
34. Barracks
This room contains six double bunk beds with matching
chests, a table with chairs, and a rack with a shelf. An iron
grill with a set of spits is fitted into the fireplace in the south-
east corner. A door is set into each of the south, east, and
north walls.
Rack: The rack holds 4 long bows, 4 quivers of 20
arrows each, 6 spears, 10 javelins, and 2 longswords.
Out of place among the elegant elven weapons is a
roughly used greataxe. A steel pot helm and a suit of
worn scale armor has been tossed beside the rack.
Secret Door: A secret door (Intelligence [Search]
DC 15 to find) in the western wall leads to a passage to
area 33. The doors at both ends of the passage are stone
slabs plainly visible and easily operable from within the
secret passage. After pressing a stone wedge hidden in
the wall, each door spins on a pivot axle in its center.
Table: In a drawer in the table are the keys to the
cells (area 35).
Treasure: In three of the chests, among personal
effects that might belong to a warrior, are a total of
three potions of healing.
35. Prison
In this area are two cells closed by sturdy steel gates. Each cell
contains a decent cot and a small table. A pale corpse lies in
the eastern cell.
The body is that of a half-orc male, who wears only a
loincloth and has the build and scars of a warrior. He
also has tatoos of a blazing sword on a shield on his
back, as well as charging horses on each shoulder. A
successful DC 10 Intelligence (Religion) check identi-
fies the symbols as those of Tempus.
No blood is spilled here, but he has a tiny wound
on his neck through which he was exsanguinated. The
wound is apparent if he is examined, but the cause of
death requires a successful DC 10 Wisdom (Medicine)
check to discern. The out-of-place armor and weapons
in area 34 seem fitting for this fallen fighter.
36. Shrine to Corellon
This circular room is lined with fine slabs of white marble,
engraved with glowing organic designs, including most
prominently, the crescent moon. In the middle of the room,
on a low pedestal, stands a statue of a male elf in elegant
warriors robes and chain mail. He has a wise look and a
simple coronet, and he leans on the pommel of a magnificent
longsword. The statue has been splashed with blood.
On the f loor are a fine stiletto and the shattered remains
of an elegant alabaster bowl. Both are bloodstained.
Creatures: Four dread warriors and a Thayan battle
wight guard the passageway between this area and area
37. Assigned to protect Shalendra, the undead make a
fighting retreat to area 37.
Glowing Designs: This room is the center of the
wards that protect the estate and, most important, the
gate in area 37. Although the wards have no effect on
the characters, a detect magic spell reveals this area to be
the epicenter of mighty abjuration magic.
Statue: Any elf knows the statue depicts the deity
Corellon Larethian, First of the Seldarine, Creator of
the Elves. Other characters recognize the deity on a
successful DC 10 Intelligence (Religion) check. A detect
good and evil spell or a paladins Divine Sense can be
used to tell that this shrine has been desecrated.
Treasure: The stiletto is a silvered dagger with gold
and amethyst adornments (200 gp).
37. Gateway
The walls of this broad, circular chamber f licker, revealing
vistas thatif not illusionscan belong only to other places
in Faern. On one side is a hall where stone trees, pillars per-
haps, weave together to form an arching canopy or ceiling.
On the other is a field of fire and a river of lava. Ahead, a
desolate plain. On the f loor is a litter of paper and a writing
kit with various pens and inks.
Creatures: Shalendra is here, as is Tyrob if he f led
area 15. If battle occurred in area 36, both are invisible.
When characters enter, whispering is heard, the walls
burn like smoldering wood, and a fire grue appears.
Development: When she drops to half her hit
points or fewer, on her next turn Shalendra uses her
action to dodge, moves away from the characters, and
begs for help against the intruder in her mind. Baazka
then reasserts control and is forced from her, with a dis-
embodied snarl, only if she is rendered unconscious.
If the characters save Shalendra, they can learn
the whole story of Baazka and the specific location of
Bloodgate Keep. She also dismantles the wards against
Darfin willingly. If she dies, the wizard Delfen later
removes the wards for Darfin.
Portal: The portal here must be manipulated with
specific techniques known to Shalendra and a few of
her Thayan allies, such as Mennek and Tarul Var. Once
the fire grue comes through, unless you feel Shalendra
needs more elemental allies to aid her, the portal falls
silent. The vistas fade to reveal polished marble walls
illuminated with dim silvery light.
Treasure: Shalendra has her equipment, which
includes magic armor and a magic sword.
63
Animated Plate Armor
Medium Construct
Armor Class 18
Hit Points 18 (4d8)
Speed 2S f.
Str 14 (+2) Dex 9 (1) Con 10 (+0)
Int 2 (4) Wis 3 (4) Cha 2 (4)
Alignment unaligned
Languages
Tetits
Special Senses bllnd, bllndslghL 30 f.
Immun|nes cold, disease, hunger, necrouc, polson, sleep,
suocauon, Lhlrst, and gaze eects and other auack
forms that rely on sight; cannot be blinded, charmed,
frightened, paralyzed, stunned, or turned to stone.
Damage Resistances re, radiant
Actious
Melee AuackSlam. +4 to hit (reach S f., one creature).
Hit: 7 (2d4 + 2) bludgeoning damage.
Bugbear
Medium Humanoid (Goblinoid)
Armor Class 15 (leather armor, shield)
Hit Points 22 (4d8 + 4)
Speed 30 f.
Str 15 (+2) Dex 14 (+2) Con 13 (+1)
Int 8 (1) Wis 11 (+0) Cha 9 (1)
Alignment neutral evil
Languages Common, Goblin
Tetits
Skills Stealth +4
Special Senses darkvlslon 60 f.
Actious
Melee AuackMorningstar. +4 to hit (reach S f., one
creature). Hit: 6 (1d8 + 2) piercing damage.
Melee or Ranged AuackJavelin. +4 to hit (reach S f. or
range 30 f./120 f., one creature). Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) pierc-
ing damage.
MONSTER APPENDIX
The monsters in this section are representative of an
iteration of the D&D Next playtest, which concluded in
2013. The statistics and the format are not final.
Air Grue
Small Elemental (Air)
Armor Class 13
Hit Points 14 (4d6)
Speed S f., y S0 f.
Str 12 (+1) Dex 17 (+3) Con 10 (+0)
Int 8 (1) Wis 11 (+0) Cha 8 (1)
Alignment neutral evil
Languages Primordial
Tetits
Special Senses blindsighL 1S f., darkvlslon 120 f.
Immun|nes disease, hunger, lightning, poison, sleep, suf-
focauon, Lhlrst; cannot be paralyzed, polymorphed, or
turned to stone
Damage Resistances cold, nonmagical weapons
Against the Wind. Neither wind nor thunder can force
the grue to move.
Move as Wind. The grue is invisible and silent while it is
moving.
Actious
Melee AuackSlam. +4 to hit (reach S f., one creature).
Hit: 8 (2d4 + 3) slashing damage.
Arrrtetucr
The grue is invisible or a cloud of swirling vapor with lash-
ing tentacles and three glowing red eyes.
64
Darkenbeast
Medium Monstrosity
Armor Class 12
Hit Points 27 (5d8 + 5)
Speed 10 f., y 40 f.
Str 15 (+2) Dex 14 (+2) Con 13 (+1)
Int 5 (3) Wis 11 (+0) Cha 4 (3)
Alignment neutral evil
Languages Thayan (doesnt speak)
Tetits
Special Senses darkvlslon 120 f.
Immun|nes Can be charmed only by its creator
Light Vulnerability. While in bright magical light, the dark-
enbeast has disadvantage on auack rolls. If exposed to
sunlight, the darkenbeast transforms into the animal
from which it was created.
Actious
I|y|ng Mu|nauack. If ying, the darkenbeast can make a
bite auack and a claws auack. If it hasnt used its whole
move for the turn, it can move between auacks.
Melee AuackBite. +4 to hit (reach S f., one creature).
Hit: 9 (3d4 + 2) slashing damage.
Melee AuackClaws. +4 to hit (reach S f., one creature).
Hit: 7 (2d4 + 2) slashing damage.
Arrrtetucr
A darkenbeast looks like an emaciated wyvern with black
skin. The creatures eyes glow violet, and its bones are
similarly luminous enough that they show through the
skin. Created by magically altering a normal animal, a
given darkenbeast might have physical vesuges of the
animal it once was.
Dread Warrior
Medium Undead
Armor Class 16 (studded leather armor, shield)
Hit Points 26 (4d10 + 4)
Speed 30 f.
Str 18 (+4) Dex 12 (+1) Con 13 (+1)
Int 10 (+0) Wis 11 (+0) Cha 6 (2)
Alignment lawful evil
Languages Common, Thayan
Tetits
Special Senses darkvlslon 60 f.
Immun|nes disease, hunger, poison, sleep, suocauon,
thirst; cannot be frightened
Undead Forntude. If the warrior takes damage that drops
it to 0 hit points, if the warrior succeeds on a ConsuLu-
uon saving throw (DC 5 + the damage taken), the war-
rior instead drops to 1 hit point.
Actious
Melee AuackBau|eaxe. +6 to hit (reach S f., one crea-
ture). Hit: 8 (1d8 + 4) slashing damage.
Melee or Ranged AuackJavelin. +6 to hit (reach S f. or
range 30 f./120 f., one creature). Hit: 7 (1d6 + 4) pierc-
ing damage.
65
Duergar Warrior
Medium Humanoid (Dwarf)
Armor Class 18 (chain mail, shield)
Hit Points 13 (2d8 + 4)
Speed 2S f.
Str 13 (+1) Dex 11 (+0) Con 14 (+2)
Int 11 (+0) Wis 10 (+0) Cha 9 (1)
Alignment lawful evil
Languages Common, Dwarvish, Undercommon
Tetits
Special Senses darkvlslon 120 f.
Dwarven Resilience. The duergar has advantage on
saving throws against poison and resistance to poison
damage.
Light Sens|nv|ty. While in sunlight, the duergar has disad-
vantage on auack rolls.
Mental Strength. The duergar has advantage on saving
throws against spells and illusions, as well as being
charmed or paralyzed.
Actious
Melee AuackWar Pick. +2 to hit (reach S f., one crea-
ture). Hit: 5 (1d8 + 1) piercing damage.
Melee or Ranged AuackSpear. +2 to hit (reach S f. or
range 20 f./60 f., one creature). Hit: 4 (1d6 + 1) pierc-
ing damage.
Expansion 1 (1/rest). For 1 minute, the duergar gains 1
foot of height, as well as a +1 bonus to Strength checks
and saving throws, as well as Strength-based damage
rolls (both auacks).
Duergar Overseer
Medium Humanoid (Dwarf)
Armor Class 18 (plate mail)
Hit Points 25 (3d10 + 9)
Speed 2S f.
Str 15 (+2) Dex 11 (+0) Con 16 (+3)
Int 11 (+0) Wis 12 (+1) Cha 12 (+1)
Alignment lawful evil
Languages Common, Dwarvish, Undercommon
Tetits
Special Senses darkvlslon 120 f.
Acnon Surge (1/rest). The duergar can take an extra ac-
uon on lLs Lurn.
Dwarven Resilience. The duergar has advantage on
saving throws against poison and resistance to poison
damage.
Light Sens|nv|ty. While in sunlight, the duergar has disad-
vantage on auack rolls.
Mental Strength. The duergar has advantage on saving
throws against spells and illusions, as well as being
charmed or paralyzed.
Actious
Two-Weapon Fighnng. The duergar wields a warhammer
in the primary hand and a short sword in the o hand,
and engages in two-weapon ghung.
Melee AuackWarhammer. +4 to hit (reach S f., one
creature). Hit: 6 (1d8 + 2) bludgeoning damage.

Melee AuackShort Sword. +4 to hit (reach S f. or

range 20 f./60 f., one creature). Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) pierc-
ing damage, or 3 (1d6) piercing damage if the hit was
with the second of two auacks.
Ranged AuackJavelin. +4 to hit (reach S f. or range
30 f./120 f., one creature). Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) piercing
damage.
Expansion 2 (1/rest). For 1 minute, the duergar gains 1
foot of height, as well as a +2 bonus to Strength checks
and saving throws, as well as Strength-based damage
rolls (all auacks).
Invisibility (1/rest). For 1 minute, or unul Lhe duergar at-
tacks, the duergar is invisible.
66
Duergar Priest
Medium Humanoid (Dwarf)
Armor Class 15 (studded leather armor)
Hit Points 19 (3d8 + 6)
Speed 2S f.
Str 10 (+0) Dex 14 (+2) Con 14 (+2)
Int 12 (+1) Wis 15 (+2) Cha 9 (1)
Alignment lawful evil
Languages Common, Dwarvish, Infernal, Undercommon
Tetits
Special Senses darkvlslon 120 f.
Dwarven Resilience. The duergar has advantage on
saving throws against poison and resistance to poison
damage.
Light Sens|nv|ty. While in sunlight, the duergar has disad-
vantage on auack rolls.
Mental Strength. The duergar has advantage on saving
throws against spells and illusions, as well as being
charmed or paralyzed.
Spellcasnng. The duergar is a 3rd-level spellcaster that
uses Wisdom as its magic ability (spell save DC 11). It
has the following spells prepared:
1st Level (4/day)cause fear, healing word, loflct
wounds
2nd Level (3/day)invisibility*, hold person
* The priest knows this spell as a racial feature and has
one extra 2nd-level spell slot due to knowing this spell.
Actious
Two-Weapon Fighnng. The duergar wields a short sword
in each hand and engages in two-weapon ghung.
Melee AuackShort Sword. +4 to hit (reach S f. or
range 20 f./60 f., one creature). Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) pierc-
ing damage, , or 3 (1d6) piercing damage if the hit was
with the second of two auacks.
Earth Elemental
Large Elemental (Earth)
Armor Class 12
Hit Points 68 (8d10 + 24)
Speed 30 f.
Str 18 (+4) Dex 8 (1) Con 16 (+3)
Int 5 (3) Wis 10 (+0) Cha 7 (2)
Alignment neutral
Languages Primordial
Tetits
Special Senses darkvlslon 120 f.
Immun|nes disease, hunger, poison, sleep, suocauon,
thirst; cannot be paralyzed, polymorphed, or turned to
stone
Damage Resistance nonmagical weapons
Earth Glide. The elemental can move through earth and
stone, leaving no tunnel or sign of passage.
Actious
Melee AuackSlam. +6 to hit (reach 10 f., one crea-
ture). Hit: 17 (3d8 + 4) bludgeoning damage.
Earth Grue
Small Elemental (Earth)
Armor Class 12
Hit Points 22 (5d6 + 5)
Speed 30 f.
Str 14 (+2) Dex 10 (+0) Con 12 (+1)
Int 7 (2) Wis 11 (+0) Cha 7 (2)
Alignment neutral evil
Languages Primordial
Tetits
Special Senses darkvlslon 120 f.
Immun|nes acid, disease, hunger, poison, sleep, suo-
cauon, Lhlrst; cannot be paralyzed, polymorphed, or
turned to stone
Damage Resistances cold, nonmagical weapons
Earth Meld. The grue can move through earth and stone,
leaving no tunnel, at half speed. A coaung of lLh ls lef
on the surface the grue enters.
Actious
Melee AuackClaws. +4 to hit (reach S f., one creature).
Hit: 9 (2d6 + 2) slashing damage.
Arrrtetucr
The grue can appear as a lump of lth with rocky extru-
sions, but its preferred form is a creature of earth that
looks like a hedgehog with a skull face.
67
Fire Grue
Medium Elemental (Fire)
Armor Class 13
Hit Points 22 (4d8 + 4)
Speed 30 f.
Str 11 (+0) Dex 17 (+3) Con 13 (+1)
Int 10 (+0) Wis 10 (+0) Cha 8 (1)
Alignment neutral evil
Languages Primordial
Tetits
Special Senses darkvlslon 120 f.
Immun|nes disease, re, hunger, poison, sleep, suoca-
uon, Lhlrst; cannot be paralyzed, polymorphed, or
turned to stone
Damage Resistances nonmagical weapons
Lxnngu|sh. At the end of each of the grues turns, roll a
d20. On a roll of 11 or higher, the grue vanishes from its
current plane and appears in the Ethereal Plane. At the
start of its next turn, the grue returns to a space within
10 feet of the space the grue vanished from.
Actious
Melee AuackSlam. +4 to hit (reach S f., one creature).
Hit: 8 (2d4 + 3) re damage.
Arrrtetucr
The grue can appear as bonre or a humanoid like a
bronze statue come to life, a form it uses to hide in plain
sight. Its preferred form is that of a humanoid upper
body, arms, and head suspended on a column of ame.
In humanoid form, its hair is re, and its face is skull-like
with black voids for eyes.
Flubnak, Possessed Gnoll Leader
Medium Humanoid (Fiend, Gnoll)
Armor Class 16 (chain mail)
Hit Points 27 (5d8 + 5)
Speed 30 f.
Str 17 (+3) Dex 16 (+3) Con 14 (+2)
Int 9 (1) Wis 13 (+1) Cha 10 (+0)
Alignment lawful evil
Languages Common, Infernal, Gnoll
Tetits
Skills Percepuon +3, SLealth +5
Special Senses darkvlslon 120 f.
Damage Resistance re
Burn Out. When Flubnak drops to 9 hit points or fewer,
his skin starts to crack and burn, and he gives o waves
of heat. When he dies, his body erupts in ames and
burns to ash. Any creature within 5 feet of Flubnak
when this happens must make a DC 11 Dexterity saving
throw, taking 3d6 re damage on a failed save, and half
as much damage on a successful one.
Possessed Resistance. Flubnak has a +2 bonus on saving
throws.
Incite Blood Frenzy. Creatures of Flubnaks choice within
30 feet of him do not have disadvantage on auack rolls
when using the Blood Frenzy reacuon.
Spellcasnng. Flubnak is a 2nd-level spellcaster who uses
Wisdom as his magic ability (spell save DC 11). He has
the following spells prepared:
1st Level (3/day)cause fear*, searing smite
* For Flubnak, cause fear has a casung ume of swlf.
Actious
Mu|nauack. Flubnak makes two halberd auacks, one hal-
berd auack and a knock down auempt, or two longbow
auacks. If he hasnt used his whole move for the turn,
he can move between auacks.
Melee AuackHalberd. +5 to hit (reach 10 f., one crea-
ture). Hit: 8 (1d10 + 3) slashing damage.
Ranged AuackLongbow. +5 to hit (range 1S0 f./600 f.,
one creature). Hit: 7 (1d8 + 3) piercing damage.
8rtctious
Leader Blood Frenzy. When a hosule creature drops to
0 hit points within 10 feet of him, Flubnak can make a
melee auack.
68
Gabulla, Possessed Goblin Shaman
Small Humanoid (Fiend, Goblinoid)
Armor Class 14 (hide armor, buckler)
Hit Points 22 (4d6 + 8)
Speed 30 f.
Str 10 (+0) Dex 13 (+1) Con 14 (+2)
Int 13 (+1) Wis 12 (+1) Cha 13 (+1)
Alignment lawful evil
Languages Common, Infernal, Goblin
Tetits
Skills Stealth +3
Special Senses darkvlslon 120 f.
Damage Resistance re
Burn Out. When Gabulla drops to 8 hit points or fewer,
her skin starts to crack and burn, and she gives o
waves of heat. When she dies, her body erupts in
ames and burns to ash. Any creature within 5 feet of
Gabulla when this happens must make a DC 11 Dexteri-
ty saving throw, taking 3d6 re damage on a failed save,
and half as much damage on a successful one.
Possessed Resistance. Gabulla has a +2 bonus on saving
throws.
Spellcasnng. Gabulla is a 4th-level spellcaster who uses
Intelligence as her magic ability (spell save DC 11). She
has the following spells prepared:
Cantripslofetool fome (see acuons), ptesuJlqltouoo
1st Level (4/day)cause fear*, searing smite
2nd Level (3/day)hold person, fomloq spbete
* For Gabulla, cause fear has a casung ume of swlf.
Actious
Melee AuackScimitar. +3 to hit (reach S f., one crea-
ture). Hit: 4 (1d6 + 1) slashing damage.
Infernal Flame. A creature within 50 feet of Gabulla that
she can see must succeed on a DC 11 Dexterity saving
throw, gaining no benet from cover, or take 4 (1d8)
re damage.
Gnoll
Medium Humanoid (Gnoll)
Armor Class 15 (leather armor, shield)
Hit Points 13 (3d8)
Speed 30 f.
Str 14 (+2) Dex 15 (+2) Con 11 (+0)
Int 7 (2) Wis 10 (+0) Cha 8 (1)
Alignment chaouc evll
Languages Common, Gnoll
Tetits
Special Senses darkvlslon 60 f.
Actious
Melee AuackBau|eaxe. +4 to hit (reach S f., one crea-
ture). Hit: 6 (1d8 + 2) slashing damage.
Ranged AuackLongbow. +4 to hit (range 1S0 f./600 f.,
one creature). Hit: 6 (1d8 + 2) piercing damage.
8rtctious
Blood Frenzy. When a hosule creature drops to 0 hit
points within 10 feet of the gnoll, as its reacuon, Lhe
gnoll can make a melee auack with disadvantage.
Gnoll (Polearm)
A polearm-wielding gnoll has the following dierences:
Armor Class 13 (leather)
Actious
Melee AuackGlaive. +4 to hit (reach 10 f., one crea-
ture). Hit: 7 (1d10 + 2) slashing damage.
69
Goblin Warrior
Small Humanoid (Goblinoid)
Armor Class 14 (leather armor, shield)
Hit Points 4 (1d6 + 1)
Speed 30 f.
Str 8 (1) Dex 13 (+1) Con 12 (+1)
Int 10 (+0) Wis 9 (1) Cha 8 (1)
Alignment neutral evil
Languages Common, Goblin
Tetits
Skills Stealth +3
Special Senses darkvlslon 60 f.
Stealthy. The goblln has an addluonal +1 bonus Lo uexter-
ity (Stealth) checks.
Actious
Melee AuackShort Sword. +2 to hit (reach S f., one
creature). Hit: 4 (1d6 + 1) piercing damage.
Ranged AuackSling. +2 to hit (range 30 f./120 f., one
creature). Hit: 3 (1d4 + 1) bludgeoning damage.
Goblin Boss
Small Humanoid (Goblinoid)
Armor Class 15 (studded leather)
Hit Points 13 (3d6 + 3)
Speed 30 f.
Str 10 (+0) Dex 14 (+2) Con 13 (+1)
Int 11 (+0) Wis 9 (1) Cha 10 (+0)
Alignment neutral evil
Languages Common, Goblin
Tetits
Skills Stealth +4
Special Senses darkvlslon 60 f.
Sneaky. The goblin can auempt to hide at the end of a
move wlLhouL uslng an acuon.
Actious
Two-Weapon Fighnng. The goblin wields a short sword in
each hand and engages in two-weapon ghung.
Melee AuackShort Sword. +4 to hit (reach S f., one
creature). Hit: 4 (1d6 + 1) piercing damage, or 3 (1d6)
piercing damage if the hit was with the second of two
auacks.
Ranged AuackShortbow. +4 to hit (range 80 f./320 f.,
one creature). Hit: 4 (1d6 + 1) piercing damage.
Grick
Medium Monstrosity
Armor Class 12
Hit Points 9 (2d8)
Speed 30 f.
Str 14 (+2) Dex 14 (+2) Con 11 (+0)
Int 3 (4) Wis 14 (+2) Cha 5 (3)
Alignment neutral
Languages
Tetits
Special Senses darkvlslon 60 f.
Damage Resistance nonmagical weapons
Actious
Mu|nauack. The grick makes a tentacle urry auack,
and if that auack hits, a bite auack against the same
creature.
Melee AuackTentacle Flurry. +3 to hit (reach S f., one
creature). Hit: 9 (3d4 + 2) slashing damage.
Melee AuackBite. +3 to hit (reach S f., one creature).
Hit: 4 (1d4 + 2) piercing damage.
Gulthyn Astral Construct
Medium Construct
Armor Class 16
Hit Points 15 (2d8 + 6)
Speed 2S f.
Str 15 (+2) Dex 10 (+0) Con 17 (+3)
Int 10 (+0) Wis 11 (+0) Cha 10 (+0)
Alignment lawful good
Languages Common, Dwarvish (doesnt speak)
Tetits
Special Senses darkvlslon 60 f.
Immun|nes disease, hunger, poison, sleep, suocauon,
thirst; cannot be charmed, frightened, paralyzed, or
stunned
Damage Resistance necrouc, radiant
Magic Resistance. The construct has advantage on saving
throws against spells.
Actious
Melee AuackBau|eaxe. +4 to hit (reach S f., one crea-
ture). Hit: 6 (1d8 + 2) slashing damage.
Melee or Ranged AuackJavelin. +4 to hit (reach S f. or
range 20 f./60 f., one creature). Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) pierc-
ing damage.
70
Hobgoblin Cook
Medium Humanoid (Goblinoid)
Armor Class 15 (studded leather)
Hit Points 11 (2d8 + 2)
Speed 2S f.
Str 9 (1) Dex 14 (+2) Con 12 (+1)
Int 12 (+1) Wis 12 (+1) Cha 11 (+0)
Alignment lawful evil
Languages Common, Goblin
Tetits
Special Senses darkvlslon 60 f.
Steadfast. The hobgoblin has advantage on saving throws
against being frightened while it can see a friendly crea-
ture within 30 feet of it that also has this trait.
Actious
Two-Weapon Fighnng. The hobgoblin wields a cleaver in
the each hand, and engages in two-weapon ghung.
Melee or Ranged AuackCleaver. +3 to hit (reach S f.
or ranged 20 f./60 f., one creature). Hit: 4 (1d4 + 2)
slashing damage, or 2 (1d4) slashing damage if the hit
was with the second of two auacks.
Disciplined. The hobgoblin chooses a creature within its
reach. The next auack roll made against that target by a
friendly creature that also has this trait has advantage.
Hobgoblin Elite
Medium Humanoid (Goblinoid)
Armor Class 15 (scale mail)
Hit Points 16 (3d8 + 3)
Speed 2S f.
Str 14 (+2) Dex 13 (+1) Con 13 (+1)
Int 10 (+0) Wis 11 (+0) Cha 10 (+0)
Alignment lawful evil
Languages Common, Goblin
Tetits
Special Senses darkvlslon 60 f.
Steadfast. The hobgoblin has advantage on saving throws
against being frightened while it can see a friendly crea-
ture within 30 feet of it that also has this trait.
Actious
Melee AuackGlaive. +4 to hit (reach 10 f., one crea-
ture). Hit: 7 (1d10 + 2) slashing damage.
Melee or Ranged AuackJavelin. +4 to hit (reach S f. or
range 30 f./120 f., one creature). Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) pierc-
ing damage.
Disciplined. The hobgoblin chooses a creature within its
reach. The next auack roll made against that target by a
friendly creature that also has this trait has advantage.
71
Hobgoblin Warrior
Medium Humanoid (Goblinoid)
Armor Class 14 (ring mail)
Hit Points 11 (2d8 + 2)
Speed 2S f.
Str 13 (+1) Dex 11 (+0) Con 12 (+1)
Int 10 (+0) Wis 10 (+0) Cha 9 (1)
Alignment lawful evil
Languages Common, Goblin
Tetits
Special Senses darkvlslon 60 f.
Steadfast. The hobgoblin has advantage on saving throws
against being frightened while it can see a friendly crea-
ture within 30 feet of it that also has this trait.
Actious
Melee AuackLongspear. +2 to hit (reach 10 f., one
creature). Hit: 5 (1d8 + 1) piercing damage.
Melee or Ranged AuackJavelin. +2 to hit (reach S f. or
range 30 f./120 f., one creature). Hit: 4 (1d6 + 1) pierc-
ing damage.
Disciplined. The hobgoblin chooses a creature within its
reach. The next auack roll made against that target by a
friendly creature that also has this trait has advantage.
Hyena, Gnoll-Bred
Medium Beast
Armor Class 11
Hit Points 11 (2d8 + 2)
Speed S0 f.
Str 13 (+1) Dex 13 (+1) Con 12 (+1)
Int 2 (4) Wis 12 (+1) Cha 5 (3)
Alignment unaligned
Languages
Tetits
Skills Percepuon +2
Special Senses low-light vision
Pack Tacncs. The hyena gains a cumulauve +1 bonus to
auack rolls, to a maximum of +5, for each friendly crea-
ture that is within 5 feet of its target.
Actious
Melee AuackBite. +2 to hit (reach S f., one creature).
Hit: 4 (1d6 + 1) piercing damage.
8rtctious
Blood Frenzy. When a hosule creature drops to 0 hit
points within 10 feet of the hyena, as its reacuon, Lhe
hyena can make a melee auack with disadvantage.
Human Guard
Medium Humanoid (Human)
Armor Class 12 (leather armor)
Hit Points 11 (2d8 + 2)
Speed 30 f.
Str 12 (+1) Dex 12 (+1) Con 12 (+1)
Int 10 (+0) Wis 11 (+0) Cha 10 (+0)
Alignment any
Languages Common
Actious
Melee or Ranged AuackSpear. +2 to hit (reach S f.
or ranged 20 f./60 f., one creature). Hit: 4 (1d6 + 1)
piercing damage.
Ranged AuackLight Crossbow. +2 to hit (reach S f.
or ranged 80 f./320 f., one creature). Hit: 5 (1d8 + 1)
piercing damage.
Disciplined. The guard chooses a creature within its
reach. The next auack roll made against that target by a
friendly creature thaL also has Lhe dlsclpllned acuon has
advantage.
72
Imp (Tyrob)
Tiny Fiend (Devil, Shapechanger)
Armor Class 13
Hit Points 7 (2d4 + 2)
Speed 1S f., y 30 f.
Str 6 (2) Dex 17 (+3) Con 13 (+1)
Int 11 (+0) Wis 12 (+1) Cha 14 (+2)
Alignment lawful evil
Languages Common, Infernal
Tetits
Special Senses darkvlslon 60 f.
Immun|nes re, poison
Damage Resistance nonmagical weapons except those
made of silver
Magic Resistance. The imp has advantage on saving
throws against magical eects.
Spellcasnng. The imp is a 3rd-level spellcaster that uses
Charisma as its magic ability (spell save DC 10). It knows
the following spells:
2nd Level (At-Will)invisibility, soqqesuoo
Actious
Melee AuackSnng. +4 to hit (reach S f., one creature).
Hit: 5 (1d4 + 3) piercing damage, and the target must
succeed on a DC 9 ConsuLuuon saving throw or take 6
(2d4 + 1) poison damage.
Change Shape. The imp polymorphs into a Small mon-
strous spider, goat, or boar, or a Tiny raven or cave
rat, and can remain in this form indenitely. The imp
reverts to its natural form when killed.
Jekk
Medium Humanoid (Dwarf)
Armor Class 16 (studded dragon leather armor)
Hit Points 42 (5d10 + 10)
Speed 2S f.
Str 17 (+3) Dex 14 (+2) Con 15 (+2)
Int 10 (+0) Wis 13 (+1) Cha 9 (1)
Alignment neutral good
Languages Common, Dwarvish
Tetits
Saving Throws. Strength +5, ConsuLuuon +4
Skills Acrobaucs +4, ALhleucs +S, Plstory +2, Stealth +4
Special Senses darkvlslon 60 f.
Acnon Surge (1/rest). Jekk can take an extra acuon on hls
turn.
Dwarven Resilience. Jekk has advantage on saving throws
against poison, and resistance against poison damage.
Actious
Mu|nauack. Jekk makes two greataxe auacks. If he
hasnt used his whole move for the turn, he can move
between auacks.
Melee Auack+1 Silvered Greataxe. +6 to hit (reach S f.,
one creature); Jekk scores a crlucal hit on a roll of 19 or
20. Hit: 10 (1d12 + 4) slashing damage.
Second Wind (1/rest). Jekk gains 1d6 + 5 temporary hit
points for 5 minutes.
73
Lemure
Medium Fiend (Devil)
Armor Class 10
Hit Points 13 (2d8)
Speed 20 f.
Str 10 (+0) Dex 9 (1) Con 10 (+0)
Int 3 (4) Wis 10 (+0) Cha 5 (3)
Alignment lawful evil
Languages Infernal (doesnt speak)
Tetits
Special Senses darkvlslon 120 f.
Immun|nes disease, re, poison, sleep; can be charmed
only by another devil
Regeneranon. At the start of its turn, the lemure regains
1 hit point. When it takes radiant damage, or damage
from a blessed weapon or holy water, the lemures
regenerauon doesn'L funcuon on lLs next turn. The
lemure dies only if it starts its turn with 0 hit points and
does not regenerate.
Actious
Melee AuackSlam. +2 to hit (reach S f., one creature).
Hit: 3 (1d6) bludgeoning damage.
Lizard, Cave
Medium Beast
Armor Class 12
Hit Points 13 (2d8 + 4)
Speed 30 f.
Str 16 (+3) Dex 14 (+2) Con 14 (+2)
Int 2 (4) Wis 10 (+0) Cha 4 (3)
Alignment unaligned
Languages
Tetits
Skills Stealth +4
Special Senses blindsighL 10 f., low-light vision
Spider Climb. The lizard can climb at full speed, even on
smooth walls and upside down on horizontal surfaces.
Actious
Melee AuackBite. +3 to hit (reach S f., one creature).
Hit: 7 (1d8 + 3) piercing damage, and the target must
succeed on a DC 10 ConsuLuuon saving throw or take 7
(2d6) poison damage.
Lutha, Chained Ogre
Large Giant
Armor Class 12 (hide armor)
Hit Points 37 (5d10 + 10)
Speed 40 f.
Str 18 (+4) Dex 10 (+0) Con 15 (+2)
Int 3 (4) Wis 5 (3) Cha 5 (3)
Alignment chaouc evll
Languages broken Orcish
Tetits
Special Senses darkvlslon 60 f.
Actious
Melee AuackGreatclub. +5 to hit (reach S f., one crea-
ture). Hit: 13 (2d8 + 4) bludgeoning damage.
Ranged AuackRock. +5 to hit (range 20 f./60 f., one
creature). Hit: 11 (2d6 + 4) bludgeoning damage.
74
Maldwyn Daggerford, Possessed Duke
Medium Humanoid (Fiend, Human)
Armor Class 18 (chain mail, shield)
Hit Points 25 (4d8 + 4)
Speed 2S f.
Str 12 (+1) Dex 12 (+1) Con 13 (+1)
Int 13 (+1) Wis 9 (1) Cha 14 (+2)
Alignment lawful evil (lawful neutral)
Languages Common, Dwarvish, Elvish
Tetits
Damage Resistance re
Burn Out. When Maldwyn drops to 10 hit points or fewer,
his skin starts to crack and burn, and he gives o waves
of heat. When he dies, his body erupts in ames and
burns to ash. Any creature within 5 feet of Maldwyn
when this happens must make a DC 11 Dexterity saving
throw, taking 3d6 re damage on a failed save, and half
as much damage on a successful one.
Possessed Resistance. Maldwyn has a +2 bonus on saving
throws.
Spellcasnng. Maldwyn is a 2nd-level spellcaster who uses
Wisdom as his magic ability (spell save DC 11). He has
the following spells prepared:
1st Level (3/day)cause fear*, searing smite
* For Maldwyn, cause fear has a casung ume of swlf.
Actious
Melee AuackLawame. +4 to hit (reach S f., one crea-
ture). Hit: 6 (1d8 + 2) slashing damage.
Flame Tongue. As an acuon, Maldwyn speaks lowfomes
command word to cause ames to erupt from the
blade. The ames emit bright light in a 20-foot radius
and dim light for 20 feet beyond that. The ames last
unul Maldwyn speaks the command word again, or un-
ul he drops or sheathes the blade. Auacks made using
lowfome while its amlng deal an addluonal 7 (2d6)
re damage.
Mane
Small Fiend (Demon)
Armor Class 11
Hit Points 6 (1d6)
Speed 2S f.
Str 10 (+0) Dex 12 (+1) Con 11 (+0)
Int 3 (4) Wis 8 (1) Cha 5 (3)
Alignment chaouc evll
Languages Abyssal (doesnt speak)
Tetits
Special Senses darkvlslon 120 f.
Immun|nes disease, poison; can be charmed only by
another demon
Damage Resistance cold, re, and lightning
Eternal Torment. When the mane drops to 0 hit points, it
dissipates into a cloud of sunklng vapor. Afer 24 hours,
the mane re-forms on a random layer on the Abyss.
Actious
Mu|nauack. The mane makes one bite auack and one
claws auack.
Melee AuackBite. +2 to hit (reach S f., one creature).
Hit: 2 (1d4) piercing damage.
Melee AuackClaws. +2 to hit (reach S f., one creature).
Hit: 2 (1d4) slashing damage.
75
Nalifarn, Durzagon Alchemist
Medium Fiend (Devil, Dwarf)
Armor Class 12
Hit Points 27 (4d8 + 8)
Speed 2S f.
Str 15 (+2) Dex 14 (+2) Con 15 (+2)
Int 16 (+3) Wis 11 (+0) Cha 12 (+1)
Alignment lawful evil
Languages Common, Dwarvish, Goblin, Infernal, Orcish,
Undercommon
Tetits
Special Senses darkvlslon 120 f.
Immun|nes po|son
Light Sens|nv|ty. While in sunlight, Nalifarn has disadvan-
tage on auack rolls.
Mental Strength. Nalifarn has advantage on saving
throws against spells and illusions, as well as being
charmed or paralyzed.
Spellcasnng. Nalifarn is a 4th-level mage who uses Intelli-
gence as his magic ability (spell save DC 12). He has the
following spells prepared:
Cantripsmage hand, ptesuJlqltouoo, shocking grasp
1st Level (4/day)burning hands, magic missile, shield
2nd Level (6/day)darkness*, heat metal*, invisibility*,
levitate, scorching ray
* Nalifarn knows this spell as a racial feature. He has one
extra 2nd-level spell slot due to knowing this spell.
Actious
Melee AuackClaws. +4 to hit (reach S f. or range
20 f./60 f., one creature). Hit: 7 (2d4 + 2) slashing
damage.
Melee AuackBeard. +4 to hit (reach S f., one creature
Nalifarn hit with a claws auack this turn). Hit: 7 (1d4
+ 2) piercing damage, and the target must succeed on
a DC 10 ConsuLuuon saving throw or take 7 (2d4 + 2)
poison damage.
Reducnon (1]rest). For 1 minute, or unul he ends Lhe
eect or loses consciousness, Nalifarn reduces himself
to 1 foot in height, reducing his gear to t the new size.
As parL of Lhe same acuon, nallfarn can also disengage.
Noyerghu, Thayan Gnoll Leader
Medium Humanoid (Gnoll)
Armor Class 16 (chain mail)
Hit Points 27 (5d8 + 5)
Speed 30 f.
Str 17 (+3) Dex 16 (+3) Con 13 (+1)
Int 10 (+0) Wis 11 (+0) Cha 10 (+0)
Alignment neutral evil
Languages Common, Gnoll, Thayan
Tetits
Special Senses darkvlslon 60 f.
Incite Blood Frenzy. Creatures of Noyerghus choice
within 30 feet of him do not have disadvantage on
auack rolls when using the Blood Frenzy reacuon.
Actious
Mu|nauack. Noyerghu makes two greataxe auacks or two
longbow auacks. If he hasnt used his whole move for
the turn, he can move between auacks.
Melee AuackGreataxe. +5 to hit (reach S f., one crea-
ture). Hit: 9 (1d12 + 3) slashing damage.
Ranged AuackLongbow. +5 to hit (range 1S0 f./600 f.,
one creature). Hit: 7 (1d8 + 3) piercing damage.
8rtctious
Leader Blood Frenzy. When a hosule creature drops to 0
hit points within 10 feet of Noyerghu, as his reacuon,
he can make a melee auack.
76
Orc Warrior
Medium Humanoid (Orc)
Armor Class 13 (studded leather armor)
Hit Points 11 (2d8 + 2)
Speed 30 f.
Str 14 (+2) Dex 10 (+0) Con 13 (+1)
Int 8 (1) Wis 10 (+0) Cha 7 (2)
Alignment chaouc evll
Languages Common, Orcish
Tetits
Special Senses darkvlslon 60 f.
Relentless. If the orc takes damage that reduces it to 0
hit points, it can make a ConsuLuuon saving throw with
a DC of 5 + the damage taken. If the saving throw suc-
ceeds, the orc drops to 1 hit point instead. If the orc has
only 1 hit point at the end of its next turn, it drops to 0
hit points.
Actious
Melee AuackGreataxe. +3 to hit (reach S f., one crea-
ture). Hit: 8 (1d12 + 2) slashing damage.
Melee or Ranged AuackJavelin. +3 to hit (reach S f. or
range 30 f./120 f., one creature). Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) pierc-
ing damage.
Orog
Medium Humanoid (Orc)
Armor Class 14 (ring mail)
Hit Points 19 (3d8 + 6)
Speed 2S f.
Str 16 (+3) Dex 10 (+0) Con 15 (+2)
Int 10 (+0) Wis 11 (+0) Cha 9 (1)
Alignment chaouc evll
Languages Common, Orcish
Tetits
Special Senses darkvlslon 60 f.
Relentless. If the orog takes damage that reduces it to 0
hit points, it can make a ConsuLuuon saving throw with
a DC of 5 + the damage taken. If the saving throw suc-
ceeds, the orog drops to 1 hit point instead. If the orog
has only 1 hit point at the end of its next turn, it drops
to 0 hit points.
Actious
Melee AuackGreataxe. +5 to hit (reach S f., one crea-
ture). Hit: 9 (1d12 + 3) slashing damage.
Oyfanen, Dryad
Medium Fey
Armor Class 12
Hit Points 18 (4d8)
Speed 30 f.
Str 10 (+0) Dex 15 (+2) Con 11 (+0)
Int 14 (+2) Wis 15 (+2) Cha 18 (+4)
Alignment neutral good
Languages Common, Elvish, Sylvan
Tetits
Skills Nature +4, Persuasion +6, Stealth +4
Special Senses low-light vision
Speak with Beasts and Plants. Oyfanen can communicate
with beasts and plants as though they shared a com-
mon language.
Spellcasnng. Oyfanen is a 4th-level spellcaster that uses
Charisma as her magic ability (spell save DC 14). She
knows the following spells:
1st Level (5/day)charm person, cure wounds,
entangle, goodberry
2nd Level (3/day)lesset testotouoo, soqqesuoo
3rd Level (3/day)plant growth
Tree Bound. Oyfanen is the spirit of an oak tree, which
she can disappear into and must stay within 1,000 feet
of. If she leaves that area, she is intoxicated unul she
returns. She dies if she fails to return within 24 hours.
Actious
Melee AuackDagger. +4 to hit (reach S f., one crea-
ture). Hit: 4 (1d4 + 2) piercing damage.
Tree Stride. Oyfanen, along with any objects she carries,
disappears into a plant big enough to contain her body.
She instantaneously reappears, emerging from another
such plant within 250 feet of the rst.
77
Pencheska, Succubus
Medium Fiend (Shapechanger)
Armor Class 13
Hit Points 47 (8d8 + 8)
Speed 30 f., y 30 f.
Str 8 (1) Dex 17 (+3) Con 13 (+1)
Int 16 (+3) Wis 12 (+1) Cha 18 (+4)
Alignment chaouc evll
Languages Abyssal, Common, Infernal
Tetits
Skills uecepuon +7, ercepuon +4, ersuasion +7, Stealth
+6
Special Senses darkvlslon 120 f.
Immun|nes disease, poison
Damage Resistance cold, re, lightning, nonmagical
weapons except those made of cold iron
Magic Resistance. Pencheska has advantage on saving
throws against magical eects.
Spellcasnng. Pencheska is a 9th-level spellcaster that uses
Charisma as her magic ability (spell save DC 13). She
knows the following spells:
1st Level (At-Will)charm person, detect good and evil,
detect magic
2nd Level (At-Will)soqqesuoo
5th Level (1/day)dominate person
Telepathy. Pencheska can communicate telepathically
with any creature within 100 feet of her that can
understand a language. She can use the soqqesuoo
spell through her telepathic communicauon and at her
telepathys range.
Actious
Melee AuackClaws. +5 to hit (reach S f., one creature).
Hit: 10 (2d6 + 3) slashing damage.
Melee AuackKiss. +5 to hit (reach S f., one creature
charmed by Pencheska). Hit: 15 (2d10 + 4) necrouc
damage, and if the target fails a DC 13 ConsuLuuon
saving throw, unul Lhe Larget completes a long rest, its
hit point maximum drops by the amount of damage this
auack dealt. If the targets hit point maximum drops to
0 due to this auack, the target dies.
Change Shape. Pencheska polymorphs into a Medium
female humanoid, and she can remain in the new form
indenitely. She reverts to her natural form when killed.
Summon Demons (1/rest). If her hit points are below hit
point maximum, Pencheska can summon 1d6 manes.
Rat, Cave
Tiny Beast
Armor Class 11
Hit Points 2 (1d4)
Speed 30 f.
Str 6 (2) Dex 11 (+0) Con 10 (+0)
Int 2 (4) Wis 10 (+0) Cha 4 (3)
Alignment unaligned
Languages
Tetits
Special Senses blindsighL 10 f., low-light vision
Pack Tacncs. The rat gains a cumulauve +1 bonus to
auack rolls, to a maximum of +5, for each friendly crea-
ture that is within 5 feet of its target.
Actious
Melee AuackBite. +0 to hit (reach S f., one creature).
Hit: 1 piercing damage.
78
Sezibul, Orc Shaman
Medium Humanoid (Orc)
Armor Class 16 (studded leather armor, shield)
Hit Points 27 (5d8 +5)
Speed 30 f.
Str 14 (+2) Dex 12 (+1) Con 13 (+1)
Int 8 (1) Wis 15 (+2) Cha 11 (+0)
Alignment chaouc evll
Languages Common, Orcish
Tetits
Special Senses darkvlslon 60 f.
Gruumshs Inspiranon (2]day). Sezibul can auack twice
when he takes the auack acuon.
Guided Strike (1/rest). Sezibul gains a +10 bonus to an
auack roll he just made.
Relentless. If Sezibul takes damage that reduces him to
0 hit points, he can make a ConsuLuuon saving throw
with a DC of 5 + the damage taken. If the saving throw
succeeds, Sezibul drops to 1 hit point instead. If Sezibul
has only 1 hit point at the end of his next turn, he drops
to 0 hit points.
Spellcasnng. Sezibul is a 5th-level spellcaster who uses
Wisdom as his magic ability (spell save DC 12). He has
the following spells prepared:
Cantripsray of frost, thaumaturgy
1st Level (4/day)bless, healing word, loflct woooJs
2nd Level (3/day)hold person, magic weapon,
spiritual weapon
3rd Level (2/day)holy vigor
Actious
Melee AuackSpear. +4 to hit (reach S f., one creature).
Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) piercing damage.
Shadow
Medium Undead
Armor Class 12
Hit Points 16 (3d8 + 3)
Speed 40 f.
Str 6 (2) Dex 14 (+2) Con 12 (+1)
Int 6 (2) Wis 10 (+0) Cha 8 (1)
Alignment chaouc evll
Languages Common (doesnt speak)
Tetits
Skills Stealth +4 (+9 in darkness and dim light)
Special Senses darkvlslon 60 f.
Immun|nes disease, hunger, necrouc, polson, sleep,
suocauon, Lhlrst; cannot be frightened, paralyzed,
polymorphed, or turned to stone.
Incorporeal. The shadow is incorporeal. Its energy drain
auack is magical.
Light Sens|nv|ty. While in sunlight, the shadow has disad-
vantage on auack rolls.
Actious
Melee AuackEnergy Drain. +4 to hit (reach S f., one
creature). Hit: 6 (1d8 + 2) necrouc damage, and if the
target fails a DC 10 ConsuLuuon saving throw, unul Lhe
target completes a long rest, its hit point maximum
drops by the amount of damage this auack dealt. If
the targets hit point maximum drops to 0 due to this
auack, the target dies. A living humanoid slain by this
auack rises 24 hours later as a shadow.
79
Shalendra Floshin
Medium Humanoid (Fiend, Elf)
Armor Class 19 (+1 studded dragon leather armor, shield)
Hit Points 49 (9d8 + 9)
Speed 30 f.
Str 14 (+2) Dex 15 (+2) Con 13 (+1)
Int 17 (+3) Wis 12 (+1) Cha 13 (+1)
Alignment lawful evil (neutral)
Languages Common, Draconic, Elvish, Infernal,
Primordial, Sylvan
Tetits
Special Senses low-light vision
Damage Resistance re
Acnon Surge (1/rest). Shalendra can take an extra acuon
on her turn.
Fey Ancestry. Shalendra has advantage on saving throws
against being charmed, and magic cannot put her to
sleep.
Keen Senses. Shalendra has advantage on Wisdom (Per-
cepuon) checks.
Burn Out. When Shalendra drops to 16 hit points or
fewer, her skin starts to crack and burn, and she gives
o waves of heat. When she dies, her body erupts in
ames and burns to ash. Any creature within 5 feet of
Shalendra when this happens must make a DC 11 Dex-
terity saving throw, taking 3d6 re damage on a failed
save, and half as much damage on a successful one.
Possessed Resistance. Shalendra has a +2 bonus on sav-
ing throws.
Spellcasnng. Shalendra is a 5th-level spellcaster who uses
Intelligence as her magic ability (spell save DC 14). She
has the following spells prepared:
Cantripsminor illusion, ptesuJlqltouoo, ray of frost,
shocking grasp
1st Level (4/day)cause fear*, searing smite, shield
2nd Level (3/day)invisibility, scorching ray
3rd Level (2/day)fteboll
* For Shalendra, cause fear has a casung ume of swlf.
Actious
Mu|nauack. Shalendra makes two long sword auacks. If
she hasnt used her whole move for the turn, she can
move between auacks.
Melee Auack+1 Long Sword. +6 to hit (reach S f., one
creature); Shalendra scores a crlucal hit on a roll of 19
or 20. Hit: 7 (1d8 + 3) slashing damage.
Shorg, Hobgoblin Leader
Medium Humanoid (Goblinoid)
Armor Class 16 (chain mail)
Hit Points 32 (5d8 + 10)
Speed 2S f.
Str 15 (+2) Dex 10 (+0) Con 14 (+2)
Int 11 (+0) Wis 12 (+1) Cha 13 (+1)
Alignment lawful evil
Languages Common, Goblin
Tetits
Special Senses darkvlslon 60 f.
Commander +2. Friendly creatures with the disciplined
acuon Lhat can see or hear Shorg and are within 30
feet of him gain a +2 bonus to damage rolls. lf muluple
friendly creatures have the Commander trait, only the
highest bonus applies.
Steadfast. Shorg has advantage on saving throws against
being frightened while he can see a friendly creature
within 30 feet of him that also has this trait.
Actious
Mu|nauack. Shorg makes two melee auacks or two jave-
lin auacks. If he chooses to make melee auacks, he can
then make a third scimitar auack. If he hasnt used his
whole move for the turn, he can move between auacks.
Melee AuackMorningstar. +5 to hit (reach S f., one
creature). Hit: 6 (1d8 + 2) piercing damage.
Melee AuackScimitar. +5 to hit (reach S f., one
creature). Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) piercing damage, or 3 (1d6)
slashing damage if the hit was Shorgs third auack with
Muluauack.
Melee or Ranged AuackJavelin. +5 to hit (reach S f. or
range 30 f./120 f., one creature). Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) pierc-
ing damage.
80
Skeleton (Unarmed)
Medium Undead
Armor Class 10
Hit Points 9 (2d8)
Speed 30 f.
Str 11 (+0) Dex 10 (+0) Con 10 (+0)
Int 6 (2) Wis 8 (1) Cha 3 (4)
Alignment lawful evil
Languages Common (doesnt speak)
Tetits
Special Senses darkvlslon 60 f.
Immun|nes disease, hunger, poison, sleep, suocauon,
thirst; cannot be frightened
Damage Resistance piercing
Vulnerability bludgeoning
Actious
Melee AuackClaws. +2 to hit (reach S f., one creature).
Hit: 3 (1d6) slashing damage.
Steeder (Giant Spider)
Large Beast
Armor Class 12
Hit Points 26 (4d10 + 4)
Speed 40 f.
Str 14 (+2) Dex 15 (+2) Con 12 (+1)
Int 6 (2) Wis 10 (+0) Cha 7 (2)
Alignment neutral evil
Languages Dwarvish (doesnt speak)
Tetits
Skills Stealth +4
Special Senses blindsighL 10 f., darkvlslon 30 f.
Leap. The steeder can long jump 40 feet and high jump 10
feet. It can do so as part of a charge acuon.
Spider Climb. The steeder can climb at full speed, even on
smooth walls and upside down on horizontal surfaces.
Actious
Melee AuackBite. +4 to hit, with advantage if the
steeder has the target grappled (reach S f., one crea-
ture). Hit: 6 (1d8 + 2) piercing damage, and the target
must succeed on a DC 11 ConsuLuuon saving throw or
take 9 (2d8) poison damage.
Melee AuackGrab. +4 to hit (reach S f., one creature).
Hit: 4 (1d4 + 2) bludgeoning damage, and the steeder
grapples the target. Due to adhesive substances on the
steeders forelimbs, the target has disadvantage on abil-
ity checks to escape the grapple.
Thegger Grynn,
Red Wizard Necromancer
Medium Humanoid (Human)
Armor Class 11
Hit Points 33 (6d6 + 12)
Speed 30 f.
Str 9 (1) Dex 12 (+1) Con 14 (+2)
Int 17 (+3) Wis 14 (+2) Cha 15 (+2)
Alignment lawful evil
Languages Common, Gnoll, Orcish, Thayan
Tetits
Saving Throws. Thegger has an addluonal +2 bonus on
Intelligence and Wisdom saving throws.
Spellcasnng. Thegger is an 6th-level spellcaster that uses
Intelligence as his magic ability (spell save DC 14). Theg-
ger has the following spells prepared:
Cantripschill touch, ptesuJlqltouoo, ray of frost
1st level (4/day)cause fear, false life, mage armor,
magic missile
2nd level (3/day)hold person, invisibility, ray of
enfeeblement, sound burst
3rd level (3/day)animate dead
Actious
Melee Auack+1 Dagger. +4 to hit (reach S f., one crea-
ture). Hit: 4 (1d4 + 2) piercing damage.
8rtctious
Grim Harvest. If a creature drops to 0 hit points due to a
spell Thegger casts, as his reacuon, 1hegger can force
that creature, if it is sull allve, to make a DC 14 Consu-
Luuon saving throw. If the creature died due to the spell
or fails the saving throw, the target takes 5 necrouc
damage and Thegger regains 5 hit points.
81
Tiger
Large Beast
Armor Class 12
Hit Points 37 (5d10 + 10)
Speed 40 f.
Str 17 (+3) Dex 15 (+2) Con 14 (+2)
Int 4 (3) Wis 12 (+1) Cha 8 (1)
Alignment unaligned
Languages
Tetits
Skills Percepuon +3, SLealth +8
Special Senses low-light vision
Actious
Melee AuackBite. +5 to hit (reach S f., one creature).
Hit: 10 (2d6 + 3) piercing damage.
Melee AuackClaw. +5 to hit (reach S f., one creature).
Hit: 7 (1d8 + 3) slashing damage.
Pounce. lf Lhe uger moves at least 10 feet and ends its
movement so that at least one creature is in its reach,
it makes two claw auacks. If both auacks hit the same
Large or smaller target, the target also falls prone, and
Lhe uger can make a bite auack against it.
Viper, Giant
Medium Beast
Armor Class 12
Hit Points 14 (3d6 + 3)
Speed 30 f.
Str 9 (2) Dex 15 (+2) Con 13 (+1)
Int 2 (4) Wis 12 (+1) Cha 6 (2)
Alignment unaligned
Languages
Tetits
Skills Percepuon +3, SLealth +4
Special Senses blindsighL S f.
Keen Smell. When using its sense of smell, the snake has
advantage on Intelligence (Search) and Wisdom (Per-
cepuon) checks.
Actious
Melee AuackBite. +3 to hit (reach S f., one creature).
Hit: 4 (1d4 + 2) piercing damage, and the target must
succeed on a DC 9 ConsuLuuon saving throw or take 7
(2d6) poison damage.
Wartsnak, Possessed Orc Wight
Medium Undead (Fiend, Orc)
Armor Class 17 (scale mail, shield)
Hit Points 45 (6d10 + 12)
Speed 30 f.
Str 18 (+4) Dex 13 (+1) Con 15 (+2)
Int 11 (+0) Wis 11 (+0) Cha 16 (+3)
Alignment lawful evil
Languages Common, Infernal, Orcish
Tetits
Special Senses darkvlslon 120 f.
Immun|nes disease, hunger, poison, sleep, suocauon,
thirst; cannot be frightened
Damage Resistance cold, re, nonmagical weapons ex-
cept those made of silver
Burn Out. When Wartsnak drops to 15 hit points or
fewer, his skin starts to crack and burn, and he gives o
waves of heat. When he is destroyed, his body erupts in
ames and burns to ash. Any creature within 5 feet of
Wartsnak when this happens must make a DC 11 Dex-
terity saving throw, taking 3d6 re damage on a failed
save, and half as much damage on a successful one.
Possessed Resistance. Wartsnak has a +2 bonus on saving
throws.
Spellcasnng. Wartsnak is a 2nd-level spellcaster who uses
Charisma as his magic ability (spell save DC 13). He has
the following spells prepared:
1st Level (3/day)cause fear*, searing smite
* For Wartsnak, cause fear has a casung ume of swlf.
Actious
Mu|nauack. Wartsnak makes two bauleaxe auacks. If he
hasnt used his whole move for the turn, he can move
between auacks.
Melee AuackBau|eaxe. +5 to hit (reach S f., one
creature). Hit: 8 (1d8 + 4) slashing damage plus 3 (1d6)
necrouc damage.
Melee AuackEnergy Drain. +5 to hit (reach S f., one
creature). Hit: 9 (2d6 + 2) necrouc damage, and if the
target fails a DC 12 ConsuLuuon saving throw, unul Lhe
target completes a long rest, its hit point maximum
drops by the amount of damage this auack dealt.
If the targets hit point maximum drops to 0 due to
this auack, the target dies. A living humanoid slain
by this auack rises 24 hours later as a zombie under
Wartsnaks command.
82
Water Grue
Medium Elemental (Water)
Armor Class 11
Hit Points 33 (6d8 + 6)
Speed 30 f., swlm 30 f.
Str 12 (+1) Dex 12 (+1) Con 13 (+1)
Int 10 (+0) Wis 10 (+0) Cha 8 (1)
Alignment neutral evil
Languages Primordial
Tetits
Special Senses darkvlslon 120 f.
Immun|nes cold, disease, hunger, poison, sleep, suo-
cauon, Lhlrst; cannot be paralyzed, polymorphed, or
turned to stone
Damage Resistances nonmagical weapons
Against the Current. No liquid can force the grue to
move.
Actious
Melee AuackWater Jet. +4 to hit (reach S f., one crea-
ture). Hit: 8 (2d6 + 1) damage.
Blinding Jet (Recharge 56). +4 to hit (reach S f., one
creature). Hit: 8 (2d6 + 1) damage, and the target must
succeed on a DC 9 ConsuLuuon saving throw or be
blinded for 1 minute. The target can repeat the saving
throw at the end of each of its turns, ending the blind-
ness early on a successful save.
Arrrtetucr
The grue can appear as a small pool or rolling wave of
greenish water, or as a blob of jelly with a fringe of clawed
appendages and tubes. It auacks with jets of water.
Wight, Thayan Bau|e
Medium Undead
Armor Class 18 (scale mail, shield)
Hit Points 39 (6d10 + 6)
Speed 30 f.
Str 16 (+3) Dex 14 (+2) Con 13 (+1)
Int 10 (+0) Wis 11 (+0) Cha 15 (+2)
Alignment lawful evil
Languages Common, Thayan
Tetits
Special Senses darkvlslon 60 f.
Immun|nes disease, hunger, poison, sleep, suocauon,
thirst; cannot be frightened
Damage Resistance cold, nonmagical weapons except
those made of silver
Acnon Surge (1/rest). The wight can take an extra acuon
on its turn.
Actious
Mu|nauack. The wight makes two long sword auacks. If it
hasnt used its whole move for the turn, the wight can
move between auacks.
Melee AuackLong Sword. +5 to hit (reach S f., one
creature). Hit: 7 (1d8 + 3) slashing damage plus 3 (1d6)
necrouc damage.
Melee AuackEnergy Drain. +5 to hit (reach S f., one
creature). Hit: 8 (2d6 + 1) necrouc damage, and if the
target fails a DC 11 ConsuLuuon saving throw, unul Lhe
target completes a long rest, its hit point maximum
drops by the amount of damage this auack dealt. If
the targets hit point maximum drops to 0 due to this
auack, the target dies. A living humanoid slain by
this auack rises 24 hours later as a zombie under the
wights command.
83
Wolf
Medium Beast
Armor Class 11
Hit Points 11 (2d8 + 2)
Speed S0 f.
Str 13 (+1) Dex 13 (+1) Con 13 (+1)
Int 2 (4) Wis 12 (+1) Cha 6 (2)
Alignment unaligned
Languages
Tetits
Skills Percepuon +2
Special Senses low-light vision
Keen Hearing and Smell. When using its sense of hear-
ing or smell, the wolf has advantage on Intelligence
(Search) and Wisdom (Percepuon) checks.
Pack Tacncs. The wolf gains a cumulauve +1 bonus to
auack rolls, to a maximum of +5, for each friendly crea-
ture that is within 5 feet of its target.
Actious
Melee AuackBite. +2 to hit (reach S f., one creature).
Hit: 1d6 + 1 piercing damage. If the auack deals 5 or
more damage, the wolf also knocks the target prone.
Worg (Shorgs Pet)
Large Beast
Armor Class 12
Hit Points 16 (3d10)
Speed S0 f.
Str 15 (+2) Dex 13 (+1) Con 11 (+0)
Int 7 (2) Wis 12 (+1) Cha 8 (1)
Alignment neutral evil
Languages Common, Goblin
Tetits
Skills Percepuon +3
Special Senses low-light vision
Keen Hearing and Smell. When using its sense of hear-
ing or smell, the worg has advantage on Intelligence
(Search) and Wisdom (Percepuon) checks.
Actious
Melee AuackBite. +4 to hit (reach S f., one creature).
Hit: 1d8 + 2 piercing damage, or 11 (2d8 + 2) piercing
damage against a prone creature. If the auack deals
9 or more damage, the worg also knocks the target
prone.
Wraith
Medium Undead
Armor Class 13
Hit Points 32 (5d8 + 10)
Speed 60 f., y 60 f.
Str 6 (2) Dex 16 (+3) Con 14 (+2)
Int 12 (+1) Wis 11 (+0) Cha 13 (+1)
Alignment lawful evil
Languages Common, Infernal
Tetits
Skills Stealth +5
Special Senses darkvlslon 60 f.
Immun|nes disease, hunger, necrouc, polson, sleep,
suocauon, Lhlrst; cannot be frightened, paralyzed,
polymorphed, or turned to stone.
Incorporeal. The wraith is incorporeal. Its energy drain
auack is magical.
Light Sens|nv|ty. While in sunlight, the wraith has disad-
vantage on auack rolls.
Actious
Melee AuackEnergy Drain. +5 to hit (reach S f., one
creature). Hit: 12 (2d8 + 3) necrouc damage, and if the
target fails a DC 11 ConsuLuuon saving throw, unul Lhe
target completes a long rest, its hit point maximum
drops by the amount of damage this auack dealt. If
the targets hit point maximum drops to 0 due to this
auack, the target dies. A living humanoid slain by
this auack rises 24 hours later as a shadow under the
wraiths command.
84
Zombie
Medium Undead
Armor Class 8
Hit Points 11 (2d8 + 2)
Speed 20 f.
Str 13 (+1) Dex 6 (2) Con 12 (+1)
Int 3 (4) Wis 7 (2) Cha 3 (4)
Alignment neutral evil
Languages Common (doesnt speak)
Tetits
Special Senses darkvlslon 60 f.
Immun|nes disease, hunger, poison, sleep, suocauon,
thirst; cannot be frightened
Undead Forntude. If the zombie takes damage that drops
it to 0 hit points, if the zombie succeeds on a Consu-
Luuon saving throw (DC 5 + the damage taken), the
zombie instead drops to 1 hit point.
Actious
Melee AuackSlam. +2 to hit (reach S f., one creature).
Hit: 4 (1d6 + 1) bludgeoning damage.
85