bob lee (order #7919987)

CREDITS
Managing Editor • Darrin Drader

Adventure Design • Darrin Drader

Editing • Darrin Drader, Robert Blezard
Playtesting * John Hinz, Robert Morris, Alex Friedrich, Eileen Eddy, Thomas Everett Haynes, and Kerry Schell.

Cover Artist • David Arenas

Interior Art • Gary Dupuis, Matt Morrow, Ramon Lucha, Copyright 2014.

Cartography • Darrin Drader

Some map icons from “Dungeonographer Dungeon Map Symbols/Icons” by artists Robert Altbauer & Keith Curtis.
Some map icons from “Fantasy Symbol Set” by Gamer Printshop.
Some map icons from the Dundjinni community and are used with permission.

Endless Vistas Publications is an imprint of Apocalypse games.

Apocalypse Games • Charles Rice
Endless Vistas Publications • Darrin Drader, Robert Blezard, Patric L. Rogers.

“Beyond the Battlements” is an adventure designed for four to five 1st-level characters. By the end of this adventure, characters
should reach 2nd level.

This adventure is compliant with the Open Game License (OGL) and is suitable for use with the 5th edition of the world’s most popu-
lar fantasy roleplaying game.

The OGL can be found on the last page of this product.

Product Identity: The following items are hereby identified as Product Identity, as defined in the Open Game License version 1.0a,
Section 1(e), and are not Open Content: All trademarks, registered trademarks, proper names (characters, deities, etc.), dialogue, plots,
storylines, locations, characters, artwork, and trade dress. (Elements that have previously been designated as Open Game Content or
are in the public domain are not included in this declaration.)

Open Content: Except for material designated as Product Identity (see above), the game mechanics of this game product are Open
Game Content, as defined in the Open Game License version 1.0a Section 1(d). No portion of this work other than the material desig-
nated as Open Game Content may be reproduced in any form without written permission.

Endless Vistas Publishing, an imprint of Apocalypse Games

29D Rolling Green Drive
Fall River, MA 02720

Apocalypse Games
Winter’s Stone© 2015, Endless Vistas Publishing, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

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bob lee (order #7919987)

 Editorial
A s you may have noticed, this is the first issue of
a new periodical we’re calling “The Spire.” Ini-
tially, it wasn’t our idea to start an online magazine,
but the more we looked at our product lineup, release
schedule, and overall goals, the more it became ap-
parent to us that we weren’t really talking about re-
leasing a series of standalone adventure modules, but
rather creating long-term, multi-part narratives that
would tell complex stories. In other words, we were
talking about a periodical. After kicking the idea
around for a while, we decided that this particular pe-
riodical will focus on one campaign at a time, which
will be released for both Pathfinder, and the fifth edi-
tion of the world’s most popular roleplaying game
(by the way, if you’re looking for the Pathfinder ver-
sion, you have the wrong issue. But don’t worry, it’s
forthcoming and will be free too).
Now, without going into a whole bunch of infor-
mation, opinion, and conjecture about today’s RPG
market, I will say that RPG publishing has changed
dramatically since the advent of the internet, and this
has led to some major paradigm shifts within the in-
dustry. In our attempts to adjust to the new realities
of publishing, we decided to get with the times and
adjust our publishing model rather than remaining
stuck in a past and adhering to a way of doing things
that almost never exists. Like many publications, we
are carrying the ads of other publishers, as you’ve no
doubt noticed by now. We are also making the intro-
ductory issues available free of charge, and we would
like to extend to you the offer to “subscribe” via our
Patreon campaign at www.patreon.com/something if
you like what you see here.
Why should you consider subscribing? Here are
just a few benefits: First, you will save money off the
price of buying this through the various online retail
outlets. Second, subscribing allows us to give you
more magazine. This means bringing in freelancers
at going industry rates, increasing our art budget, and
increasing the amount of content we bring you. Our
publishing efforts wouldn’t be possible without you,
and our future is very much in your hands.
Obviously, this means that we want you to have
this particular issue as a sample of things to come,
and we want you to have it for free. But, the nice
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bob lee (order #7919987)
price tag does come with a request: please remember
that this is financed by our advertisers, so we would
be very appreciative if you would take a look at the
ads and go check out their awesome products. While
you’re at it, please consider supporting this periodi-
cal through our Patreon campaign, as this sort of pe-
riodical is a rapidly vanishing aspect of our hobby.
Also, keep in mind that without sufficient interest,
this experiment might crash and burn, which could
mean going the other direction with future issues and
scaling back what we offer. In any event, success or
failure of the Patron campaign, we’re committed to
moving forward with this in one form or another, re-
gardless of how our initial business strategy works
out.
Now, with that out of the way, welcome to our pre-
mier issue. Technically, there is also an issue zero,
which is coming out simultaneously, and makes this
not exactly the first, but this is the premier issue with
adventure content. The “zero issue” contains mate-
rial about the City of Arendan, which you’ll need as
a reference for the entire campaign, so we gave the
issue a null number. What you can expect here is the
first adventure in an ongoing campaign, and it’s set
in a ruined city that you’ll see change and grow over
time.
Each issue will focus on a single adventure, at least
for the time being. Eventually, we might attempt to
expand the page count, include more than one ad-
venture, or maybe even include non-adventure type
content, but for now we simply want to focus our ef-
forts on bringing you this one adventure, which will
be followed by the second in the series in issue #2.
Beyond the Battlements was written by your ever
humble Managing Editor, though later installments
will be penned by different authors. Don’t get me
wrong, I intend to jump in and create content for The
Spire quite often, but we really think the best way to
provide you with quality content is to avoid being
too homogeneous. For those who don’t know me by
name, I have cover credit on the 3.5 Book of Exalted
Deeds, Forgotten Realms Serpent Kingdoms, For-
gotten Realms Mysteries of the Moonsea, and D20
Apocalypse, all for Wizards of the Coast, as well as
about fifty other credits since the turn of the millen-
nium, all for various publishers, from the now de-
 funct Bastion Press to Paizo Publishing. I also write
novels!
I’m currently almost forty-two years of age, and I’ve
been playing one version or another of the world’s most
popular roleplaying game since I was eleven years old.
That’s thirty-one years that I’ve been playing, Given
the amount of design work I’ve done for various RPG
products, it’s safe to say that this is a little more than
just a hobby for me. I spent the majority of 2000 to
2004 working in the WotC corporate office, and then I
worked as a Narrative Designer, which is a corporate
term for a staff writer, on R.A. Savatore’s Kingdoms
of Amalur for the now defunct 38 Studios. These days
I have an exciting day job that I absolutely cannot talk
about, and I do gaming stuff on the side.
So, there’s the obvious question of why we’re doing
this. The answer goes back to the fact that my favorite
RPG periodical of all time was WotC’s Dungeon Mag-
azine, which is now sadly lost to the gray mists of his-
tory, along with it’s elder sister publication, Dragon. I
feel that these days, Gygax magazine has (at least for
now) filled the shoes of Dragon nicely. That currently
leaves us with no analog to my favorite one. Don’t get
me wrong, this is in no way a WotC sanctioned rebirth
of the magazine, which I’m sure you can tell by the
name, but it is a periodical with a similar focus that
we hope will help scratch that itch for those who miss
it like we do. I’d like to think of this as the beginning
of a ‘spiritual successor’.
Finally, I’d like to drop a little bit of a teaser… Al-
though the adventures we will publish should be fairly
easy to use with any existing campaign setting, these
will all be set the Endless Vistas Publishing’s very
own Winter’s Stone campaign setting. I’d love to tell
you all about it, but there will be plenty of time to go
into that later. You will find a very brief write-up of it
in Issue #0.
So, with introductions out of the way, I do hope you
and your players enjoy the adventure, and I look for-
ward to chatting at you again in the next issue.
Want to tell us how you felt about the first issue?
Feel free to drop us a line at evpspire@gmail.com..

— Darrin

Want to drop us a line to let us know how we’re doing? We value your feedback, and we want The
Spire to grow into the premier RPG adventure magazine on the market. Shoot us an email to evpspire@
gmail.com. If we don’t use your letter in an upcoming issue, we’ll at least do our very best to send you
a response.
Also, don’t forget that the best deal for getting The Spire is through a subscription through Patreon.
Doing so will not only result in a better deal for you, but it will also help us make this periodical higher
quality. For more information, go to http://evpspire.com and subscribe.

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bob lee (order #7919987)
 INTRODUCTION
B eyond the Battlements is an adventure for first and
second level characters. The XP thresholds are de-
signed for a party of five, but can be easily modified
for one less, or up to two more player characters. Re-
ducing or increasing the difficulty of each encounter
to allow for different party sizes can typically be ac-
complished by adding or subtracting one creature. Ad-
ditionally, some groups are better optimized or have
more experienced players than others, which means
that some might require a higher or lower degree of
difficulty than what is presented here. The best rule of
thumb is to gauge how the PCs are dealing with the
challenges of the adventure and adjust the number of
monsters as needed.
This adventure is designed so that a party of first level
adventurers will reach second level before advancing
to the second floor of the barracks, which would pro-
vide too great of a challenge for first level characters,
so it is important to ensure that the PCs play through a
fair amount of the ground floor and Uncivilized Aren-
dan before moving on to the final encounters of this ad-
venture. In the same vein, PCs who employ wit, guile,
and stealth to avoid encounters should receive ad-hoc
experience awards for doing so in order for them to
reach level two before attempting the second floor.
Beyond the Battlements is the first adventure in the
Retaking Arendan campaign. The tale begins when the
player characters take on a commission to capture the
gnoll, G’aard’k Bloodsnout, who has been given com-
mand over the goblinoid forces who patrol the streets
of Uncivilized Arendan. Bloodsnout is unusually in-
telligent for a gnoll, and possesses a keen mind for
strategy, troop development, and deployment. It is be-
lieved that capturing him will allow the king’s forces
in New Arendan easier access to the uncivilized por-
tion of the city, and they will also likely learn impor-
tant secrets about their enemy’s operations.
Background
F or the city of Arendan’s background, and this
campaign’s primer, refer to The Spire, issue #0.
Roughly three months ago, the soldiers serving
Duke Heridotus in New Arendan became aware of the
fact that the goblins, orcs, and other brutes patrolling
the streets of Uncivilized Arendan had become more
organized. This not only represented a new threat to
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the civilized portion of the city as raids into New Ar-
endan became increasingly brazen, but excursions into
enemy territory were repulsed with much more ease
than before. In an attempt to respond to this develop-
ing threat, the soldiers launched a number of excur-
sions beyond the walls, captured several goblins, and
pressed them for information. Although the prisoners
initially refused to speak, and were in obvious fear of
their master, those with the weakest mental faculties
were tricked into revealing that their new master was
a gnoll by the name of G’aard’k Bloodsnout.
Attempts to gather information about Bloodsnout
proved difficult. The gnoll appeared to avoid the open
streets, the prisoners were unable to tell their interro-
gators where the gnoll could be found, and intelligence
gathering excursions on the other side of the wall met
with no success. Hoping to deal with this threat, the
Duke has offered up a commission to capture the gnoll
this front. Anyone brave enough to scout the uncivi-
lized portion of the city is encouraged to take matters
into their own hands and return with G’aard’k Blood-
snout. A bonus reward is offered if they can bring him
back alive.
Synopsis
T he adventure begins as the PCs take up the cause
to help the king’s forces liberate Uncivilized Ar-
endan. They may hear the call to action from criers
throughout the kingdom, they might have ancestral
connections to the city, or they might hear about it in
from other adventurers in any given tavern. The ad-
venture begins when the PCs venture beyond the walls
and attempt to learn where the gnoll can be found.
They may ask around and try to force the creatures
patrolling the streets to talk, or they might simply lay
low and observe. After employing either method, they
learn that the gnoll spends most of his time at the orig-
inal city’s barracks, which lies just beyond the wall.
Entering the barracks, the PCs must fight the gob-
lins, orcs, and hobgoblins, and other creatures present.
They may also choose to free several captured citizens
from the barracks’ cells, which the current inhabitants
are using for sport. Finally, they must confront Blood-
snout and try to find a way to bring him back to New
Arendan alive.
 Beginning the
Adventure Adventure Hooks

W hatever brings the PCs to Arendan, they are

granted an audience with Aurea, the head clerk
T he following are some ideas that the GM might
use to entice the PCs to become involved in the
struggle to retake Arendan and seek out G’aard’k
in Duke Heridotus’s manor. Aurea warns them that ef-
Bloodsnout. Any of these, or a combination of them,
forts to retake the city have not been going well, but
may be used. These are considerations the GM can
she can offer a commission of 2,500 gp. to capture
use in addition to the commission offered by the clerk,
the gnoll leader, G’aard’k Bloodsnout, payable upon
or as alternate means of involving characters in the
completion. This amount is reduced to 1,500 gp. if
adventure.
he is brought back dead. If pressed for more of a re-
ward, she is under strict instructions not to increase
• Quest for Vengeance
the offfer. She is also unwilling to offer any sort of
pre-payment. If the PCs persist in their requests, she In a recent expedition to the other side of the wall, the
tells them that the duke requires the PCs to prove their young warrior Lidonach met a brutal and unfortunate
worth before he is willing to negotiate for any sort of end at the hands of a patrol of orcs. Lidonach might
higher rewards. be the sibling or friend of one of the PCs, or he have

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 some other connection to the party.
• Reclaiming the Family Prize
One of the characters comes from a family that once
owned property in what is now Uncivilized Arendan.
The lure of recovering the family’s lost treasures mo-
tivates them to liberate it from the creatures who now
make their lairs there.
• Search for the Prodigal Son
An adventurer or other notable individual from one of
the PCs hometowns’ has disappeared after taking up
the quest to free the city, and hasn’t been heard from
since. The PCs seek out information about his fate.
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• Finding Eclipse
A recent incursion into New Arendan has resulted in
the theft of a Aresos Maneo’s prized sword, called
Eclipse. He has offered a reward to anyone who re-
covers it. (Note that this is now in the possession
of Bloodsnout, and can be recovered in room 29).
• Killthe Bloody Gnoll
Before coming to Arendan, G’aard’k Bloodsnout was
involved in a raid that cost the life of someone close to
one of the PCs. He or she has been attempting to track
down the gnoll ever since. They have recently come
by information suggesting that he has come to this city.
bob lee (order #7919987)
 Beyond the Battlements

U ncivilized Arendan appears very similar to any

other city, the major exception being that the
structures tend to be in poor repair (the result of the
1d6 Roll
1
Encounter
2d4 CR 1/4 gob-
lins
majority of the current inhabitants not at all concerned
2 1d4 CR 1/2 orcs
with structural upkeep), and those seen walking the
1d4 CR 1/2 hob-
streets tend to belong to races that are at odds with the 3
goblins
civilized races. Instead of humans, dwarves, and elves,
it is common to see goblins, orcs, and hobgoblins. 4 1 CR 2 ogre
In addition to this, the Crimson Council isn’t at all 5 2 CR 1 goblins
opposed to allowing more predatory, unnatural, or 6 1 CR2 orog
powerful creatures to make their lairs within their area
of control, provided that they don’t interfere a great
deal. When deciding whether to run off a new mon-
Finding Bloodsnout

B
strous arrival, they take into consideration what sort
loodsnout rarely walks the streets of Arendan,
of trouble it happens to be causing. Goblins are com-
though he is not a difficult individual to track
pletely expendable to the council. Orcs are semi-ex-
down. Simply asking one of the inhabitants of Un-
pendable; the loss of a few is excusable, but because
civilized Arendan where Bloodsnout might be found
they are such powerful warriors, the council doesn’t
is unlikely to produce results since most of them are
want to lose too many, and is willing to run off or kill
deathly afraid of his reaction should he learn that they
any creature that makes a habit of preying on them.
have given this information to outsiders. On the other
Because most of the inhabitants of Uncivilized Ar-
hand, if captured and interrogated, some weak-willed
endan are monsters, the civilized races tend to attract
minions might be coerced into betraying Bloodsnout’s
attention. Humans are the enemy, unless they are par-
location. PCs can obtain this information from a cap-
ticularly vile and in league with the Crimson Coun-
tured creature on a successful DC 17 Charisma (In-
cil. They are typically challenged in the streets, as are
timidation) check.
dwarves, elves, halflings, and others. Half-orcs are
Likewise, player characters who employ abili-
sometimes treated with suspicion since they can be
ties or spells that allow them to speak with animals
aligned with either the forces of chaos or civilized be-
find it much easier to obtain this information. Birds,
ings. On the other hand it isn’t uncommon for hooded
cats, dogs, and other rodents roam both sides of the
individuals to roam the streets, so if the PCs disguise
wall, and they can impart some valuable information.
themselves as such, they can pass through the streets
Gnolls are extremely rare in Ucivilized Arendan, so if
unharmed most of the time. A special exception for
one is described to an animal, it can lead them to the
humans is allowed when the arena is in use.
barracks.
Should the PCs move about Uncivilized Arendan PCs may use stealth and disguise to move about the
without attempting to disguise themselves, they are city. If they simply maintain a low profile, they can
likely to run into trouble quickly. Roll for d% every learn Bloodsnout’s location with a successful DC 20
minute they move openly about the streets, with a 35% Wisdom (Perception) check, or a successful DC 15 In-
chance of a random encounter. If there is a random telligence (Investigation) check.
encounter, roll 1d6 and consult the following table:

The Barracks
The barracks is a large, imposing structure construct-
ed of dark gray basalt blocks. It stands two stories tall,
the top floor twelve feet above the first floor. It also
has a small cellar that sits under the southern half of

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 the structure. All rooms along the outer walls contain
windows, though they are barred and require a DC 25
Strength check to bend them enough to allow for en-
trance. The glass is in good repair, and is still replaced
by the current occupants when broken.
The barracks was a fairly new structure when the
Androsan Empire fell. As such, it did not adhere to the
common architectural preferences found throughout
most of the empire. Instead of being inherently deco-
rative, with ornate pillars and artistic sculptures built
into the walls, it is austere, spartan, and functional.
When it was built, the idea behind making such an un-
attractive building was to impress upon the empire’s
enemies that they were deadly serious in their mission
to retain order. Ultimately such steps failed, but these
structures did help usher in the current design aesthet-
ic that is now prevalent throughout the region.
Approaching the Barracks
The barracks are located very near the wall separat-
ing New Arendan from Uncivilized Arendan, and
it can be seen from the wall. If the PCs wish to go
over the wall toreach the structure, they must first ob-
tain per mission from the City Watch. Failing to get
this permission results in the guards stationed atop
the wall demanding that they leave. The PCs might
also choose to use the main gate, which is under the
control of New Arendan. Once inside, they are like-
ly to be attacked. A better plan is to disguise them-
selves as they navigate their way to the barracks.
Four goblins are stationed outside the double door
leading into the barracks. They deny entrance to any-
one who isn’t a goblin, orc, or hobgoblin, and they at-
tack anyone attempting to enter who is clearly human,
elf, dwarf, halfling, or other civilized race. Attempts to
sneak in without magical assistance automatically fail.
The PCs might try to lure them away with a diversion.
The doors are locked, but the goblin guards carry the
keys to the doors.
1. Sparring Room
This room was once used by the city of Arendan as
a training room for the warriors stationed here. Orna-
mental shields with swords crossed in front of them
decorate the walls. The room still bears the faint white
markings indicating the sparring area’s outer boundar-
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ies. The room has fallen into disrepair, and the debris
from the rotting ceiling lay in piles of wood on the
floor.
This room currently serves its original function, in a
manner of speaking, as three goblins and their leader
are having sport with an elven woman. The goblins
stand near the fireplace and have been taking turns
shooting arrows at the prisoner, who cowers near
the pile of wooden debris in the western side of the
room.
The PCs may gain surprise when they enter the
room. The goblins are accustomed to other human-
oids coming and going from the building, and pause
a moment to see if the newcomers are supposed to be
there. When it becomes clear that the PCs are not un-
der the command of Bloodsnout, they spring to attack.
The elven prisoner is Thenea, a commoner and is
in a state of shock due to the trauma being inflicted
upon her. Originally captured about a week ago in a
raid against New Arendan, she is not capable of assist-
ing the party against the goblins, and she can do little
more than sob once they have been dispatched. Fol-
lowing the fight, and after she has been calmed down,
she agrees to wait in this room for the PCs to return,
but she will only leave the building in their company.
If asked if there are any other prisoners, she indicates
that there are three more in the cells (area 9). If asked
about any others, she tells them that prisoners are
periodically dragged out here for the goblin’s sport-
ing pleasure. She has never seen any of them return.
If the PCs search the fireplace a successful DC 17
Wisdom (Perception) check reveals a hidden compart-
ment behind a removable brick. Within is a small sack
of coins that was stashed by someone stationed here
a hundred years ago while Arendan was being over-
taken. Within this sack are 5 cp., 15 sp., and 12 gp.
Goblins (3): CR 1/4, hp 7, 7, 8; See the 5th Edi-
tion rules for the goblins’ complete stat block.
Goblin Leader: (CR 1) hp 21; See the 5th Edition
rules for the goblin leader’s complete stat block..
 2. Hobgoblin Sleeping Tools) check. Within each are the following items
(roll d100 for each item listed per chest):
Quarters
This room serves as a sleeping quarters for the
hobgoblin warriors stationed in the barracks. 10% 1d4 gems worth 3d8
There are currently three hobgoblins in this room, gp.
which are awake due to the sadistic game in prog- 75% 6d10 cp.
ress. The PCs receive surprise unless they make 60% 2d10 sp.
noise fumbling about the door before entering. 20% 1d10 gp.
Once the the hobgoblins are able to act, they roll off 20% Potion of healing.
their beds, grab their weapons, and engage the PCs as
quickly as possible. The floor is cluttered with straw
Hobgoblins (3): CR 1/2, hp 11, 11, 13; See the 5th
beds covered with furs. Should the PCs enter the room
Edition rules for the hobgoblins’ complete stat block
quickly and fill the available floor space, the beds can
be used to move, and are considered difficult terrain.
Chests sit at the foot of each bed, each of which is 3. Trapped Stairs
locked. The hobgoblins present in the room each car- This room contain the moldering remains of numer-
ry the key to their own chest. The other three can be ous pieces of furniture that predate the fall of Aren-
opened with a successful DC 16 Dexterity (Thieves dan. Now, after a century of neglect and abuse by ran-

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 dom vermin, the only thing that remains are pieces of
the wooden structure and shreds of fabric and other
materials. Also in this room is a spiral stairway lead-
ing down.
Below, the barracks cellar is filled with dangerous
vermin that pose a small threat to the current inhab-
itants. Attempts to eradicate them have been tempo-
rarily successful, but more vermin come in through
cracks in the building’s foundation. Rather than post-
ing a guard to deal with any creatures that wander too
far up the stairs, they set a scythe pendulum trap to
deal with them. The trap is triggered by the third stair
down, a pressure plate, which releases a scythe shaped
pendulum from the ceiling. The trap requires a DC 12
Wisdom (perception) check to spot, and a DC 15 Dex-
terity (Thieves Tools) check to disable. If triggered, the
affected creature may make a DC 12 Dexterity check
or sustain 1d8 points of damage. The trap automatical-
ly resets via a mechanical apparatus two rounds after
it is triggered. Creatures who cannot move from their
location after the trap is triggered may take damage
from the trap during the second round before it resets.
4. Cellar
The items in the barracks cellar predate the fall of Ar-
endan. Most of them have long since moldered and
decayed to nothingness, however there are a few items
of note.
There are five bookshelves along the walls in this
room, which are badly rotted but still holding to-
gether. Several books dating back to the Androsan
Empire line the shelves and include topics dealing
with history, drama, and military tactics. These books
became damp and rotted in the cellar, though charac-
ters who are careful about preserving them (DC 15
Intelligence check plus a week of careful restorative
work) may recover 2d10 volumes, each of which
are worth 1d10 gp each. There are also seven bar-
rels full of ancient, rancid ale (creatures drinking the
ale must make a DC 10 Constitution check or suffer
1d6 points of damage). There are two bags full of the
bread which crumbles when touched, and a locked
chest. The chest requires a successful DC 15 Dexter-
ity (Thieves Tools) check to open, and contains 35
cp., 27 sp., 20 gp., and two rubies worth 65 gp. each.
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This room is also inhabited by several giant insects
that made their way here through the ground and en-
tered through cracks in the building’s foundation.
Giant Fire Beetles (4): hp 4, 4, 4, 5; See the 5th
Edition rules for the giant fire beetles’ complete stat
block.
Giant Centipedes (3): hp 4, 4, 6; See the 5th Edition
rules for the giant centipedes’ complete stat block.
5. Wine barrel storage
This room serves as a storage area for the barracks’
current inhabitants. Aside from two small piles of trash
that has been dumped here, there are three barrels filled
with low quality wine that was watered down by the dis-
reputable half-orcs who sold it to them. Despite its poor
quality, it serves its purpose and is worth 30 sp. each.
Also within this room are three orcs who
are heavily under the influence of alcohol.
Their inebriated state gives them disadvantage.
Orcs (3): CR 1/2, hp 15, 17, 19; intoxicated (suffer
disadvantage on all attacks); See the 5th Edition rules
for the orcs’ complete stat block.
6. Alchemist’s Lab
This room is used by an eccentric goblin alchemist,
who is currently not at the barracks. A table with spell
components on it occupies the northwest corner of the
room, and holds a gas burner, several glass vials, and
three small cube-shaped pieces of lead. The lab equip-
ment is worth 30 gp., and the cubes of lead are worth
15 sp.
7. Stairway Up
This room contains a stairway that ascends to room
16 on level 2. It is bare of furnishings, but is occu-
pied by six unruly goblins who serve as guards and are
their commander, a well-disciplined hobgoblin with a
heavy hand. Their orders are to attack anyone enter-
ing this room, including others who are normally sta-
tioned in these barracks unless they have already been
cleared by Bloodsnout. The hobgoblin commander
receives a daily list of welcome guests. All others

are expected to stay off the second floor upon penalty of death.
Goblins (4): CR 1/4, hp 7, 7, 7, 8, 8, 10; See the 5th Edition rules
for the goblins’ complete stat block.
Hobgoblin: CR 1/2, hp 11; See the 5th Edition rules for the hob-
goblins’ complete stat block.
8. Jail Keeper
This room serves as the access room for the jail cell in area 9, and
contains nothing other than a wooden table surrounded by four
chairs. Within is a lone orog jailer named Lugar, who carries the
keys to the cells in area 9. When the PCs enter, he first attempts
to engage them in conversation. Obviously overconfident in his
fighting abilities, he gives them the option to surrender or be
killed.
Whether the PCs choose to fight or surrender, if they end up
in Lugar’s custody, they are arrested and locked up in room 9f.
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If the PCs choose to fight, Lugar calls out for
help and, if they have not yet been killed, the
goblins from area 7 rush to his aid. If the gob-
lins in area 7 have not yet been dealt with, this
encounter likely proves more difficult than the
average first level party can handle. Should
they retreat, the orog and the goblins return to
their original areas after an hour’s time.
Lugar, Orog Jailer: CR 2, hp 42; See the
5th Edition rules for the orog’s complete stat
block.
9. Jail Cells
The jail cells in this area are constructed from
steel bars set into the concrete floor. They are
locked, requiring the jailer’s key from room 8,
or a DC 15 Dexterity (Thieves Tools) check to
open. Locked away within are several prison-
ers.
The beds in these rooms are made of straw
and are uncomfortable. They can, however, be
used for a short rest.
a. This room is empty, save for a straw bed.
If searched, the PCs find a note made out to
someone named Edora. The note reads:
Dear Edora,
This is the start of my second week in cap-
tivity. I hope to one day escape this place, but
hope is growing dim. This morning, they took
Helianar from his cell. After that, he didn’t re-
turn. I asked the jailer what happened to him
and he smiled and told me that I’d find out
soon enough. I sensed that he was dead, so
I asked him if he would be buried. He sim-
ply replied that his body would be given to the
necromancer. This sent chills down my spine.
I recently found a couple of very thin,
straight, pieces of wood under the bed, and I
think I might be able to use them to get at the
lock. I intend to try and make good some sort
of escape. Wish me luck.
-L
 There is no sign of the pieces of wood he mentions
in his note, and it is not clear whether he managed to
escape or not.
b. This cell is empty, save for an uncomfortable straw
bed.
c. This cell is inhabited by a male prisoner named
Olydes. A butcher by trade, he has been locked up
here for several days; ever since he was caught out-
side the city gates transporting a cart full of fresh-
ly slain cow carcasses. As a newcomer to the jail,
he has only witnessed the elf (currently in room 1)
taken and used for sport. If freed, Olydes seeks out
Thenea, if she still lives, and will wait to leave the
barracks until they are accompanied by the PCs.
d. This cell is inhabited by a human woman named
Eunis, who was caught walking too close to the gates
at the start of a hobgoblin raid. She has been here for
three weeks, and has seen a number of other prisoners
come and go. If asked about her experiences, she tells
the PCs about the ones who have been taken out by the
jailer and never seen again. If asked what is done with
the bodies of the slain, she says that the jailer made no
secret that they were to be gifts for the necromancer.
If freed, Eunis insists on exiting the barracks immedi-
ately, even without an escort. After the length of time
she has been in this cell, she would rather chance it on
streets inhabited by goblins than take the risk of being
recaptured and sent back here.
e. This cell is occupied by a Heodoro, a young, fop-
pish, human male, who has been locked away in this
cell for about a week. He foolishly believed he had
what it took to battle the monsters inhabiting Uncivi-
lized Arendan. He also thought playing the hero would
increase his chances of attracting the attention of Lady
Mophea of Sendalden. His illusions quickly dissipat-
ed when he was taken prisoner by the first group of
goblins he encountered. He wears fine clothing that
now bears the stench of having soiled himself several
times since his capture, and he breaks down in tears
and hysterics when the PCs attempt to speak to him.
He is too afraid to move about the barracks freely, so
must either be left in his cell, moved to another loca-
tion until he can be escorted to freedom later, or kept
13
bob lee (order #7919987)
with the party.
f. This cell’s one inhabitant was left too long without
food, and expired several years ago. All that remains of
him now is the skeleton, which Lugar jokingly refers
to as ‘Smiley’. This cell is devoid of valuables, save a
pile of rags that has been overlooked all these years.
10. Goblin Sleeping Quarters
This room is occupied by fur-draped straw beds with
chests at their feet. The goblins currently present in the
barracks who use this room are in rooms 1 and 7. The
chests are locked 50% of the time, requiring a successful
DC 15 Dexterity (Thieves Tools) check to open. Each
chest has a 50% chance of being protected by a blade trap.
The blade trap is a mechanical mechanism that causes
a blade to jut out from an interior compartment to-
ward anyone attempting to open the chest without first
disarming it. It acts as though it has an attack bonus
of +5. Struck creatures suffer 1d6 points of damage.
The trap is triggered upon opening or unsuccessfully
attempting to pick the lock. A DC 20 Intelligence (In-
vestigation) check allows creatures to detect the trap,
and a successful DC 15 Dexterity (Thieves Tools)
check disarms it.
Each chest may contain the following items:
10% 1d4 gems worth 3d6
gp. each.
85% 10d10 cp.
50% 2d10 sp
10% 1d10 gp.
10% Potion of healing.
11. Kitchen
This room serves as the kitchen and is inhabited by
a sea hag and a pair of goblins. The hag, Esmeralda,
is currently making a stew out of broth, noodles, and
meats of questionable origin, which are pulled from
one of the barrels in this room. She is assisted by the
two goblins.
If the PCs instigate a fight, the goblins and the hag
are more than happy to rise to the challenge. The gob-
lins close to melee range while the sea hag attempts to
use her Horrific Appearance ability to frighten any of
 the PCs who see her and fail their saves. The PCs may
attempt to use the pot of hot soup as a weapon. Doing
so requires a DC 10 Strength check to lift the pot, and
the boiling liquid can be thrown at a single creature,
requiring a normal attack roll. If struck, the creature
suffers 1d6 points of damage and suffers disadvantage
for 1 minute or until the damage is healed.
If the PCs instead attempt to parlay with the hag, she
is willing to talk. The goblins likewise hold off their
attacks on her command. Esmeralda enjoys the oppor-
tunity to share her cooking with those in the barracks,
but has very little loyalty toward them. If questioned
about G’aard’k Bloodsnout, she reveals that he spends
most of his time commanding his forces from the sec-
ond floor. She can provide the PCs with a quick over-
view of the various creatures found in the barracks,
though she doesn’t recall their exact numbers, and she
tends to forget about some of the more unusual crea-
tures here. Esmeralda is willing to share some of her
stew with the PCs, but she is protective over the ingre-
dients she keeps in the barrels and warns them away if
they attempt to pilfer through them.
The barrels contain meats of questionable origin,
oats, dry pasta, sauces, and various other foodstuff.
The sacks contain vegetables, potatoes, celery, and
carrots. All of the food is half rotten and is valueless
to any potential buyers.
Sea Hag: CR 2, hp 55; See the 5th Edition rules for
the sea hag’s complete stat block.
Goblins (2): CR 1/4, hp 7, 7; See the 5th Edition rules
for the goblins’ complete stat block.
12. Storage
This room serves as a storage area for wooden plates,
bowls, cups, and low-quality eating-utensils made of
tin. A careful search of the room reveals a small ce-
ramic jar hidden in an out-of-the-way corner where
the sea hag stores her treasure that holds 25 sp. and
15 gp.
13. Closet
This room serves as the barracks closet and contains
various cleaning tools such as brooms, rags, mops,
and dustpans. All of these items date back to the city’s
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bob lee (order #7919987)
fall and are in extremely poor condition.
14. Hobgoblin Post
Three hobgoblins are meeting in this room and await-
ing further orders. They are gathered around a small
fire, which has burned away the wood flooring, expos-
ing the concrete foundation beneath it. The smoke is
thick in this room, but slowly venting through an open
window in the north wall.
The hobgoblins attack when the PCs enter the room
and immediately close to melee range to take on the
front line fighters.
Hobgoblins (3): CR 1/2, hp 12, 12, 13; See the 5th
Edition rules for the hobgoblins’ complete stat block.
15. Armory
The door to this room is locked and requires a DC 20
Dexterity (Thieves Tools) check to open. Within is the
barracks armory. A goblin boss waits inside to issue
weapons and armor to those who need it. He carries
the key to the door lock, and he opens the door for
anyone who gives him the password, “Sharp things”
in goblin.
This room contains 3 suits of medium size plate
armor, 5 small suits of leather armor, 5 shields, and
a weapon rack with 1 greatsword, 5 long swords, 5
greataxes, 15 daggers, 5 small shortbows, and 30 arrows.
Goblin Armory Chief: CR 1, hp 22; See the 5th
Edition rules for the goblin’s complete stat block.
16. Stairs Down
This room contains the spiral staircase that leads to
room 7 on level 1. This room is used as storage for
much of the unwanted furnishing and junk that was
found when the goblinoids took over the building,
including a threadbare couch, several painted por-
traits with the paint peeling off, and various other
pieces of furniture in various states of disrepair.
17. Ancient Logs
This room contains a desk with a log book on it.
Though the pages are in poor condition, the origi-
nal writing is still legible if examined carefully. The
 information on the last several pages paint a picture
of relative peace, followed by a period of vicious at-
tacks by hostile creatures, a slowly dwindling num-
ber of defenders, and the eventual fall of the city.
Although this sheds no new information on the fall
of Arendan, it is valuable as a historical document.
This book is worth 100 gp. to Duke Heridotus.
18. Dishonored Guest
This room is locked and requires a DC 15 Dexterity
(Thieves Tools) check to open, or a DC 20 Strength
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check to force. Within is the orc traitor called Rish-
nag, who was once a commander in Uncivilized Ar-
endan’s forces, but killed his commander, an orc by
the name of Grax, following a dispute over a game
of chance. Unfortunately for him, Grax was an ef-
fective commander, and highly regarded, so Rishnag
was held for punnishment. Numerous small wounds
are visible on his face, hands, and other parts of his
body - evidence of the torture he has experienced at
the hands of G’aard’k Bloodsnout and his minions.
If attacked, Rishnag immediately surrenders and
begs to be taken to New Arendan, promising to pro-
 vide them with valuable information. If questioned, he Bugbears (3): CR 1, hp 28, 30, 32; See the 5th Edi-
tells the PCs that he knows his kind isn’t liked by them tion rules for the bugbears’ complete stat block.
and that he will only deliver this information to the
Duke himself. If asked who is in charge of Uncivilized
Arendan, he states only that there are powerful forces
21. Guest of Honor
The door to this room is locked and requires a DC 15
with big plans, but does not know the Crimson Coun-
Dexterity (Thieves Tools) check to open, or a DC 20
cil by name. He is willing to reveal the existence of a
Strength check to force. Locked up in this room is the
powerful necromancer in charge of the city’s undead,
halfling rogue, Hildo. He is an adventurer who was
though he does not give them his name, saying simply
caught nearby after attempting to pick the pocket of
that doing so would sign his own death warrant.
a hobgoblin soldier, then brought back here for pun-
If released from the barracks, he briefly visits the
nishment. Bloodsnout is convinced that the halfling
Duke’s manor to attempt to sell information. He finds
is part of a larger plot against him and is holding him
out, too late, that the duke is not interested in discuss-
here in hopes of torturing vital information out of him.
ing this information with him, and he is executed by
The truth of the matter is Hildo often sneaks into Un-
the city guards.
civilized Arendan and tries to loot valuables, and has
nothing to do with any sort of plot against Bloodsnout.
Rishnag - Orc: CR 1/2, hp 15; See the 5th Edition
Hildo is guarded by five orcs, who attack anyone
rules for the orc’s complete stat block.
entering the room without authorization. The orcs’
plan of attack is straightforward, pressing in on the
19. Ancient Living Quarters melee fighters, and attempting to cut them down be-
This room was once used as the sleeping chambers for fore moving on to the remainder of the party. If PCs
the barracks clerk. The bed and other furniture have at the back of the group use spells against them, two
fallen apart due to a leak in the roof above this room. A of the orcs break away from the others and try to push
careful search uncovers a leather pouch in poor condi- their way to the back of the party so they can take on
tion containing 25 gp. any spellcasters or PCs using ranged weapons.
Hildo has developed a serious dislike for Bloods-
nout. If the party is is lacking a rogue, Hildo offers to
20. Bugbears join them, at least until they leave the barracks. Once
The door to this room is locked and requires a DC 15
free of the barracks, he leaves Arendan, wanting noth-
Dexterity (Thieves Tools) check to open, or a DC 20
ing more than to put this place far behind him.
Strength check to force. This room is used by a trio
of bugbears that G’aard’k Bloodsnout calls upon pe-
riodically whenever an unruly faction within the city Orcs (5) : CR 1/2, hp 15, 16, 17, 19, 20; See the 5th
needs their heads cracked. The PCs may immediately Edition rules for the orcs’ complete stat
attack upon entry, or they might try to convince the block.
bugbears that they are here at the behest of the boss. If
the PCs attempt the latter tactic, the bugbears pretend
to be interested in whatever story they are telling, but
then spring to attack once the PCs have become com-
fortable with them, granting them a Surprise Attack
(see monster description). If possible, two of the bug-
bears engage the front line melee fighters while the
third one tries to force his way past them and engage
any characters at the back of the party.

16
bob lee (order #7919987)
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 Hildo the Rogue
small neutral halfling
Armor Class 14 (padded armor)
Hit Points 13
Speed 25 ft.
Str 9 (-1), Dex 17 (+3) , Con 11 (+0), Int 8 (-1), Wis
13 (+1), Cha 15 (+2)
Skills Deception +4, Perception +3, Insight +3, Sleight
of Hand +5
Senses Passive perception 13
Languages Common
Challenge 2
Actions
Short Sword: Melee weapon attack: +5 to hit, reach 5
ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d6+2) slashing damage.
Short Bow: Ranged weapon attack: +5 to hit, range
80/320 ft., one target. Hit: 6 (1d6+3)
Attack: +5 Short Sword (1d6+3), +5 short bow (1d6).
Equipment: Thieves tools, silk rope 50’.
22. Torture Chamber
This room is currently devoid of occupants and is used
primarily for torturing information out of prisoners.
Within is a table with wrist, ankle, and neck restraints.
The puddle of semi-dried blood indicates that it has
been used recently, the victim being Rishnag, the orc
traitor in area 18. A repository of implements, includ-
ing blades of various sizes, a prod, and a screw, is
mounted on the wall. Standing in the southwest corner
is an iron maiden.
The iron maiden is an sarcophagus shaped cabinet
with spikes inside, and a hinged locking door. It weighs
150 lbs. and is large enough for medium sized crea-
tures and contains spikes, which are designed to slow-
ly impale anyone locked within. The door to the iron
maiden locks automatically once the door is closed,
and it requires a successful DC 20 Dexterity (thieves
tools) check to open from the outside. It is impossible
to escape an iron maiden once placed inside, short of
teleportation, or magic that changes a creature to an
insubstantial form. The iron maiden deals 2d6 points
of damage the first round, and an additional 1d4 points
of damage for every additional round spent within.
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23. Weak Floor
The floor in this room is in poor repair, and a pile of
boards that have pulled up litter the western half of the
room. There is nothing of value to be found in the debris.
PCs wandering into the weakened portion of the floor
must make a DC 15 Dexterity check or fall through
and into room 2, suffering 2d6 points of damage.
24. Illusory Chamber of the An-
cient Warlord
The inhabitant of this room is a shadow that has
frightened away all attempts by the barracks’ current
inhabitants to chase it out. The room appears as it did
over one hundred years ago, when it was the primary
headquarters of a very foul tempered fighter named
Harusos. When the PCs enter, they see a desk with
official papers on it, a weapon rack, and a standing
suit of gleaming plate armor. In front of that is a burly
armored man demanding why they have interrupted
him. This is an illusion, and PCs making a DC 16 In-
telligence (Investigation) check discover that the room
is empty, save for a forlorn shadow.
Assuming the PCs do not see through the illusion,
the shadow does his best to convince the PCs that
he is stationed in the barracks, and that it’s his job
to keep rabble like them out. His story sounds plau-
sible enough, but if questioned, he insists he works
for the proud city of Arendan. His story further falls
apart if they ask him why he allows goblins and other
such creatures to exist here, to which he insists that no
such thing is possible. He insists that all mention of
the city’s current state are simply absurd, and his ire
raises with every new piece of information the PCs try
to give him. If his true form is discovered or deduced,
he reverts to shadow form and attacks the party. If the
PCs simply take defense actions rather than fight back
while assuring him that they meant no harm, he halts
his attacks and allows them to leave in peace.
25. Baths
Before the fall of Arendan, this room served as the
baths for the barracks. A ceramic pipe runs through the
building’s outer wall to a reservoir of heated springs
beneath the city. Given that this room hasn’t been
cleaned in over a century, it has become horribly pol-
luted and infested by a gelatinous cube, which attacks
 1d4 rounds after the party enters the room. If the PCs
leave the room immediately, the ooze squeezes into
the hallway to follow, eating through the door with
its acid if necessary.
Gelatinous Cube: hp 90; See the 5th Edition rules
for the gelatinous cube’s complete stat block.
26. Captain’s Dining Room
G’aard’k Bloodsnout can be found in this room. He
is accompanied by a pair of dire wolves, and two
goblins, all of whom serve as his personal guard. If
the PCs came to the barracks but were forced to leave
before reaching this point, he is aware of their ex-
istence, as well as the havoc they have wreaked on
his forces. If they stayed the entire time, and have
been stealthy about their approach, he remains bliss-
fully ignorant of the toll they are taking. If the PCs
hesitate before attacking, Bloodsnout takes that op-
portunity to goad the PCs. He is overly confident in
his abilities, and he isn’t above taunting them with
the fact that they aren’t the first party of adventur-
ers to track him down and challenge him. He boasts
about defeating them, then having their heads deliv-
ered to the Duke in New Arendan. If the PCs still
don’t attack, he offers them the opportunity to sur-
render to him, with the promise that he won’t kill
them, at least not immediately. If the PCs accept his
terms, they are taken to the jail cells in area 9 and
locked up without their equipment (a new orc jailer
is brought in to replace the old one if he has already
been slain). Assuming that the PCs refuse his offer, he
decides that there has been enough talk and attacks.
Bloodsnout is a fierce warrior, so he immediately
closes to melee range, and is joined by his two dire
wolves. As a free action, G’aard’k Bloodsnout calls
out for help. If areas 20 and 21 have not been cleared
out, the inhabitants within leave those rooms, move to
join the fight, and close in as fast as possible. Blood-
snout is a more formidable foe than most gnolls due
to the fact that he wears half-plate armor. He is also
more intelligent than the typical gnoll, so he is more
likely to detect any weaknesses in the party and ex-
ploit them.
While Bloodsnout takes on the PCs directly, the
goblins remain behind the lines of combat and fire ar-
rows at any opponents using spells or ranged attacks
19
bob lee (order #7919987)
against Bloodsnout. If the spellcasters or ranged at-
tackers in the party fall in combat, the goblins close
to melee and switch to their scimitars.
The commission offered by the Duke’s clerk is to
take Bloodsnout alive. To this end, the PCs may at-
tempt to hold damage down to the point where they
drop him just below zero hit points, stabilize him,
and bring him back. Similarly, spells that success-
fully require him to follow a command to disarm,
grovel, etc. effectively end the combat and force his
surrender. A PC who deals enough damage to kill
him may choose to pull the punch. This involves
declaring, before damage is dealt, that the PC is at-
tempting to deal enough damage to incapacitate the
target but not kill it. The PC must then make a suc-
cessful DC 10 Dexterity check before rolling dam-
age. If the Dexterity check succeeds, and damage ex-
ceeds Bloodsnout’s hit pints, the target drops to zero
hit points and becomes unconscious but stable. If the
check fails, the attack does normal damage.
If Bloodsnout drops before the other combat-
ants, any of them with more than an animalintel-
ligence must make an immediate morale check.
Failure results in the combatants fleeing or sur-
rendering, whichever is the most expedient option.
G’aard’k Bloodsnout (CR 2 gnoll): hp 55; AC 17
(half-plate), Int 13; See stats for G’Aard’k Bloods-
nout on page 21.
Goblins, CR 1/4 (2): hp 8, 8, See the 5th Edition
rules for the goblins’ complete stat block.
Dire Wolves (2): hp 38, 40; See the 5th Edition rules
for the dire wolves’ complete stat block.
27. Abandoned Library
This room contains five bookshelves, each packed
with tomes that date back to before the fall of Ar-
endan and cover a range of topics, from history, to
theater, poetry, and epic narratives. Like most of the
books that remain in Uncivilized Arendan, these are
in poor condition and are likely to fall apart upon
examination. If steps to preserve them are taken,
3d6 books can be salvaged, and are worth 2d100 gp.
each.
 28. Team Sparring Room
This room was once used for team sparring. Before
the fall of Arendan, the warriors stationed here would
divide into teams and fight as a means of training. This
room has since been stripped of all items of value, and
is in poor repair. If searched, the PCs find 5 practice
long swords, which deal half damage if used. In addi-
tion to this, there are 3 green and 6 red tabards, each
decorated with the gold embroidered acanthus leaves.
29. G’aard’k Bloodsnout’s Bed-
room
This room serves as Bloodsnout’s bedroom. Although
it is spacious, he spends very little of his time here,
and he leaves it open so that his goblin guards can go
into the room to fetch various items for him. The chest
in this room is unlocked, and contains personal items
including the trophies he won in the arena, as well as
furs and various other items of clothing. A long sword
is mounted on a weapon’s rack on the north wall. Close
inspection reveals a name engraved upon the sword:
Eclipse. This sword belongs to Aresos Maneo, a mer-
chant in New Arendan. Eclipse is a magical sword, with
a +2 bonus, but it carries a high personal value with
Maneo, and he is willing to offer a reward of 2,000 gp.
With successful negotiations, Maneo is willing to go
up to 3,500 gp., but no higher. Should the PCs insist on
keeping the sword despite the reward, Maneo becomes
irate and reports the new owner to the city watch.
30. G’aard’k Bloodsnout’s Trea-
sure
This small room contains Bloodsnout’s collected trea-
sures. The chest is locked, requiring a DC 20 Dex-
terity (Thieves Tools) check to open. Within are the
following items: 20 cp, 900 sp, 290 gp, Azurite (10
gp), Banded agate (10 gp), Lapis lazuli (10 gp), Rho-
dochrosite (10 gp), Tiger eye (10 gp), Turquoise (10
gp), Bag of Holding.
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Concluding the
Adventure
If the PCs bring Bloodsnout back to New Arendan
alive, they are paid the 2,500 gp. they were promised.
If Bloodsnout was killed in the attempt, the clerk is
disappointed, but still gives the party 1,500 gp. as a
reward for their efforts. If taken alive, Bloodsnout is
turned over to the city watch, where he is held and in-
terrogated. Of interest to them are the number of gob-
lins, hobgoblins, and orcs that were in his service.
The city’s interrogators are also interested in learn-
ing who runs Uncivilized Arendan. Bloodsnout is in
possession of M’Zhair’s identity, but not the others.
Even so, he is unwilling, even upon pain of death, to
reveal the denizen of Leng’s identity or to name the
Crimson Council. Whether he was brought back dead
or alive, the city clerk is pleased with their accom-
plishment and suggests that they check back with her
in the near future for their next commission.
If the PCs give up on the job and fail to bring Blood-
snout back to New Arenda, the gnoll goes into hiding
and moves his headquarters deeper into the uncivi-
lized portion of the city. The clerk congratulates them
on making it back to New Arendan alive, but suggests
that they become more skilled before attempting to aid
the city again in the future.
Assuming they were successful in their mission to
defeat Bloodsnout, the PCs gain notoriety. They are
recognized by most people they encounter, the thugs
and bullies in town are less likely to give them a hard
time, tavern-goers cluster around them to hear tales of
their deed, and shop owners are likely to offer them
small discounts on whatever goods they might need.
Granted, there is a long way to go to drive out the threat
from the other side of the city, but they have offered
the people hope, and for that, they are celebrated.
 G’aard’k Bloodsnout
Medium neutral evil humanoid
Armor Class 17 (half-plate)
Hit Points 55
Speed 30 ft.
Str 17 (+3), Dex 15 (+2) , Con 12 (+1), Int 13 (+1), Wis 10
(+0), Cha 12 (+1)
Senses darkvision 60 ft., passive perception 10
Languages Gnoll
Challenge 2 (450 xp)
Ferocious Rage: When G’aard’k Bloodsnout drops an op-
ponent during his turn, he may make a bonus action to spring
up to 15 ft. in a straight line and bite another opponent.

Actions
Dual Attack: G’aard’k Bloodsnout makes two attacks per
round. He must use the same weapon for both attacks.
Bite: Melee weapon attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target.
Hit: 7 (1d8+3) slashing damage.
Long Bow: Ranged weapon attack: +5 to hit, range 80/320
ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d8+3).

Greataxe: Melee weapon attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one

target. Hit 9 (1d12+3) slashing damage.

Incite Confidence (Recharge 5-6): One of Bloodsnout’s

allies that can see or hear him receives a +3 confidence bo-
nus on attack rolls and damage for one turn.

G’aard’k Bloodsnout is one of only a handful of gnolls in

the employ of the Crimson Council. Generally speaking,
gnolls are too chaotic and self centered for them to be of
use to the council, but Bloodsnout is an exception. More
intelligent and charismatic than most of his kind, he is a
natural leader of the rank and file. He commands from the
front, and inspires the confidence and loyalty of those who
serve beneath him. Even the orcs respect his leadership,
though to a lesser extent. There is always grumbling among
their kind that one of their own should replace Bloodsnout.
Bloodsnout is far from his people. Abducted by a sadistic
slave trading human at a tender age, he was trained in com-
bat and leadership, then brought to the arena in Uncivilized

21
bob lee (order #7919987)
 Arendan. Here, he was often put in team competitions
where he was eventually made the leader. In time, his
successes in the arena drew the attention of the Crim-
son Council. M’Zhair himself paid to procure his re-
lease and offered him the prestigious position within
the city that he now enjoys. Despite the fact that his du-
ties are in the city, Bloodsnout feels the call of theopen
wilderness in his blood. He often leaves the con
Next up…
The Retaking Arendan campaign continues with the level 3-4 adventure called The Arcane Acade-
my’s Haunts.
22
bob lee (order #7919987)
fines of civilization, along with a group of underlings,
to raid the nearby settlements. In his mind, in becom-
ing the leader of Uncivilized Arendan’s forces at the
street level, he has simply traded one form of slavery
for another. Should the opportunity arise to leave all
of this behind and rejoin his original pack, he would
do so without hesitation. He would not, however, will-
ingly betray his current masters to take advantage of
such an opportunity.
bob lee (order #7919987)
 OPEN GAME LICENSE Version 1.0a

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24

bob lee (order #7919987)

 Heed the Call to
Adventure!
For a century, the city of
Arendan has lay in ruin. Overcome by
hideous creatures at the fall of the
Androsan Empire, it has since been a
stronghold for orcs, goblins, and
even more foul beasts.

But the king of Kyrinid has

not forgotten the threat that
waits at his door. Vowing to
retake the city, he has called on
intrepid heroes to push back the
growing tide of chaos and bring
the city back under his control.

Beyond the Battlements is the first

issue in a new periodical by End-
less Vistas Publishing, dedicated to
bringing quality adventures for the
fifth edition of the world’s most
popular roleplaying game.

Subscribe at http://evpspire.com

bob lee (order #7919987)