1

Table of Contents
Character Building 8 Nature’s Wrath 76
Character Backgrounds 8 Tentacles of Torment 80
The Restless 84
Devoted Fanatic 8 The Brimstone Legion 88
Jealous Heir 9
Ruthless Enforcer 10 Heroes 92
Secret Seeker of Power 11 Forming a Team 92
Slum Survivor 12 Scouts 93
Races 13 Tanks 99
Support 106
Twin-headed Ogre 13 Blessings 118
Immature Vampire 17
Corrupted Beastfolk 18
New Archetypes 19 Twisted Fate:
Bard - College of Sorrow 20 Chronicles of the Endarkened 119
Fighter - Dark Knight 23 Chapter 1: The Wedding Gift 121
Monk - Way of the Hex 25
Paladin - Oath of the Inquisitor 26 The Brief 121
Ranger - Pouncing Panther 27 Chapter 2 What happens in Shipton… 134
Sorcerer - Chosen of the Abyss 29
Warlock - Aberrant Symbiote 30 A New Base of Operations 134
Wizard - Puppeteer 33 The Road to Shipton 138
The Owl Strikes Back 143
Magic Items 35 Conclusion 147
Uncommon 35 Chapter 3 Knowledge is our Enemy 150
Rare 37
Very Rare 39 Within the Library of Hatbury 150
Legendary Items 41 The Ritual of Apprehension 152
The Vaults of Knowledge 154
Defending the Lair 44 Conclusion 157

Setup Phase 44 Chapter 4 Take Control of a District 160

Infiltration Phase 45 Time to Expand our Power 160
Combat Phase 45 Chapter 5 The Bones or the Oak 186
Winning 46
Adjusting the Difficulty 46 Procuring New Allies 186
Organization Mascot 48 The Grove and the Graves 189
The Rite of Awakening 206
Lair Building 50 Defend The Base! 211
Lair Tiers 50 Chapter 6: A Rat Problem 214
Traps 51
Lair Maps by Tier 57 The Rat Among Us 214
Lair Artefacts 61 Don’t Lose Patience 215
Traveling Treasure or Patented Payback? 217
Recruiting Monsters & Henchmen 66 Defend The Base! 225
Recruiting with Gold 66 Chapter 7 Control the Kingdom 228
Recruiting with Skills 66
Recruiting Costs & Gold Allowance 67 Burn the Heretic 228
Seize the King; Seize the Kingdom 233
Monsters and Henchmen 68 Heavy is the Head that Wears the Clown 234
The Ironfang Tribe 68
The Arcane Insurgents 72

5
 CREDIT
Project coordinator: William Martin
Content Team
Main Authors: William Martin
Author story: Sam Mc Gurran
Proofreading: Dee Davis and Brandon Eccles
Game design: William Martin, Antoine Lussier, Jason Pétrin,
Valérie Lafond, Guillaume Beausoleil, Joshua,
Tests: Tom Cornu, Lancer Gaming
Artists
Book Design:
Cover Illustrator: Ognjen Sporin
Illustrators: Ognjen Sporin, Ori (Muchinery), Lohan Guerci
(Accalmie),
Lilou Caubert, Elisa Ruiz, Quentin Eung, Renard Lucas, Fiona
Albertini,
Lina AMREIN, Celine Lacan, Jérémy Le Botlan, Mathieu Huet,
Camille Fleury, Avehrse, Hugo Dumarais, Djaster, Franca-
drawing
Special Thanks
Theo from the Youtube channel Gallant Goblin
Ryker from the Cleric Corner
Our Champions of Shadow
Special thanks to our incredible backers who made this dark
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 Character Building
Character Backgrounds
Morally, evil characters have chosen the darker path less
travelled. This could have been due to circumstance,
nature vs. nurture, or even sheer whimsy by someone
ignorant to the laws of the land. The different facets of
evil and moral ambiguity always have a beginning, or
a seed that allows evil to flourish. To that end, the dar-
ker-themed backgrounds we’ve compiled for your player
characters provide interesting new ways to explore this
corruption instead of simply playing a generic evil-cha-
racter-does-evil. Players can add depth to their character
by choosing from a range of specific backgrounds repre-
senting different motivations, beliefs, and goals for their
character's evil deeds.
Additionally, these evil-themed backgrounds can provide
players with new roleplaying challenges and opportu-
nities while assisting you with potential plot hooks and
story ideas to incorporate into your games. For example,
a character with the Devoted Fanatic background might
have to navigate the tensions and conflicts that arise
within a religious order or cult, while a character with the
Secret Seeker of Power background might have to deal
with the consequences of betraying their allies along with
sacrificing their morals.
8
Overall, creating alternative evil-themed backgrounds
for D&D players can be a fun and interesting way to add
complexity and nuance to their evil characters, along with
all new challenges and opportunities for roleplaying and
storytelling.
Devoted Fanatic
You are a devout follower of an evil deity, and you believe
that the ends always justify the means. You are willing to
commit atrocities in the name of your god, and you have
no qualms about betraying or sacrificing others for the
greater good.
Skill Proficiencies: Religion and one from an Intelli-
gence skill of your choice
Tool Proficiencies: None
Languages: Two of your choice
Equipment: A sacrificial dagger engraved with the holy
symbol of your deity, a prayer wheel, 5 sticks of incense,
vestments, a set of common clothes, and a pouch contai-
ning 15 gp
Feature: Altar Expert
As a devoted fanatic, you are deeply devoted to your deity
or deities and have studied the art of sacrifice extensively.
When you encounter an altar or similar structure, you are
able to accurately determine its purpose and identify the
builders, whether they be dwarves, elves, humans, yuan-ti,
or any other known race. You can also identify the age
and value of any sacrificial objects or artifacts that you
come across, and are also able to discern the rituals and
ceremonies that were performed within the space.
d6 Personality Trait
1 I often quote scriptures or prophecies.
2 I see omens and signs in everyday occurrences.
3 I'm unyielding in my religious practices.
4 I often judge others based on their piety.
5 I have a serene presence, even in chaos.
6 I often fast or partake in other religious obser-
vances.
d6 Ideal
1 Faith. Unwavering faith is the path to salvation.
(Good)
2 Proselytism. It's my duty to convert others. (Neu-
tral)
3 Domination. Those who don't follow the true path
must be subjugated. (Evil)
4 Purity. The body and soul must be kept pure.
(Lawful)
5 Enlightenment. Seeking deeper understanding is
the path to divinity. (Neutral)
6 Zeal. Passionate belief can move mountains.
(Chaotic)
d6 Bond
1 I have a shrine or holy place that is sacred to me.
2 I had a vision that guides my actions.
3 I belong to a religious order or sect.
4 I have a mentor or spiritual guide.
5 There's a particular scripture or text that I hold
dear.
6 I have taken a vow that I must uphold.
9
d6 Flaw
1 I'm overly critical of those who don't share my
beliefs.
2 I sometimes take my rituals to dangerous extre-
mes.
3 I can be intolerant of other faiths or beliefs.
4 I struggle with doubt, though I rarely admit it.
5 I can be overly zealous, pushing others away.
6 I sometimes prioritize my faith over my
friends or family.
Jealous Heir
You were born into a wealthy and privileged family, but
you have always been overshadowed by your sibling.
Driven by jealousy and a desire for power, you will do
whatever it takes to prove yourself and claim your rightful
place at the top.
Skill Proficiencies: Choose any two from an Intelligence
or Charisma skill of your choice
Tool Proficiencies: None
Languages: Two of your choice
Equipment: A pendant containing your parents’ portrait,
a set of fine clothes displaying the symbol of your family
and a pouch containing 25 gp.
Feature: Family Knowledge
Obsessed with family and noble titles, you have gained
access to privileged information and resources and are
able to use your knowledge and connections to further
your own interests. You can find a library or official office
where one can gather information on noble families, their
ancestral history, and wealth acquisition. The Dungeon
Master determines whether the information is current or
outdated.
d6 Personality Trait
1 I'm constantly comparing myself to others.
2 I have a refined taste, befitting my status.
3 I'm sensitive to any perceived slight.
4 I often reminisce about my family's past glories.
5 I have a regal bearing that others notice.
6 I'm well-versed in courtly etiquette.
d6 Ideal
1 Legacy. Upholding my family's name is of ut-
most importance. (Lawful)
2 Rivalry. I must outdo my rivals at any cost.
(Evil)
3 Nobility. My nobility comes with great responsi-
bility. (Good)
4 Prestige. Image and perception are everything.
(Neutral)
5 Ambition. I will reclaim what's rightfully mine
by any means necessary. (Evil)
6 Tradition. The old ways are best. (Lawful)
d6 Bond
1 I have a mentor who taught me the ways of
court and politics.
2 There's a family heirloom that I cherish above
all.
3 I have a distant cousin who's always been my
confidant.
4 My family's estate holds many secrets.
5 I have a loyal servant or advisor who's been
with me for years.
6 There's a rival heir whose achievements I must
outshine.
d6 Flaw
1 My pride frequently leads to my downfall.
2 I'm paranoid about others plotting against me.
3 I can be dismissive of those I deem "beneath"
me.
4 I'm obsessed with my family's legacy to the point
of neglecting the present.
5 I can be overly critical of myself as I hold myself
to impossible standards.
6 I have a fear of being overshadowed.
10
Ruthless Enforcer
You were raised in a strict, authoritarian household and
were taught to always obey authority without question.
As a result, you have a strong sense of order and hierar-
chy, but you also have a cruel streak and enjoy watching
others suffer as you wield your power over them.
Skill Proficiencies: Intimidation, plus your choice of one
from among Athletics, History, Insight, and Investigation.
Tool Proficiencies: None
Languages: One of your choice
Equipment: A set of traveler's clothes emblazoned with
the symbol of your household, a book with the family tree
of the household ancestors, and a pouch containing 15
gp.
Feature: Side Job
You are resourceful and are always on the lookout for
new leads and opportunities to earn rewards for your
work. You are comfortable operating on your own, and
you have a network of contacts that can help you find side
jobs and gather information to get the job done.
d6 Personality Trait
1 I see the world in black and white; there's no
room for gray.
2 My justice is always "an eye for an eye".
3 My presence often intimidates others.
4 I value structure and routine in my daily life.
5 I have a habit of giving unsolicited advice.
6 I often reminisce about my strict upbringing.
d6 Ideal
1 Hierarchy. Everyone has a place, and they should
know it. (Lawful)
2 Fear. Instilling fear ensures order. (Evil)
3 Caste. Those below should serve those above.
(Evil)
4 Respect. Everyone deserves respect until they
prove otherwise. (Neutral)
5 Control. Power is best consolidated and
controlled. (Lawful)
6 Duty. I have a responsibility to maintain order.
(Lawful)
d6 Bond
1 I owe a life debt to a superior who once spared
me.
2 My word is my bond; once I swear an oath, I
never break it.
3 I have a mentor who taught me the importance
of order.
4 I keep a memento from my first enforcement
task.
5 My loyalty to my organization is unwavering.
6 I have a rival enforcer whom I constantly try to
outdo.
d6 Flaw
1 I can be overly rigid, unable to adapt to new
situations.
2 I sometimes take pleasure in the misfortunes of
those I deem inferior.
3 My belief in hierarchy can make me dismissive
of those "below" me.
4 I struggle to understand or respect chaotic indi-
viduals.
5 I can be overly critical and demanding.
6 I rarely admit when I'm wrong.
Secret Seeker of Power
You are a member of a secret society dedicated to the
pursuit of knowledge and power. You have devoted your
life to uncovering ancient secrets and forbidden magic,
and you will stop at nothing to achieve your goals, even
if it means betraying your allies and sacrificing your own
morals.
Skill Proficiencies: Choose any 2
Tool Proficiencies: None
Languages: One of your choice
Equipment: A coded book that you are trying to decipher,
a bottle of ink, a quill, a set of common clothes, and a
pouch containing 10 gp.
Feature: Black Market Network
You are constantly searching for ways to uncover hidden
knowledge and unlock the secrets of the arcane. You are
willing to go to great lengths and take great risks to ac-
quire this knowledge, knowing that it may be dangerous
or even deadly to wield.
You are an expert in all things related to researching an-
cient rituals and forbidden magic. You are able to contact
a network of collectors on the black market who can as-
sist you in finding information on certain forbidden rituals
and spells. The request must be specific and the Dungeon
Master decides which information is available.
11
d6 Personality Trait
1 I assume that everyone needs the most basic
concepts explained to them
2 I have a habit of speaking in riddles.
3 I guard my true intentions closely.
4 I'm fascinated by ancient artifacts and relics.
5 I often meditate or perform arcane rituals.
6 I frequently quote from my vast collection of
esoteric tomes.
d6 Ideal
1 Mastery. Knowledge is power, and I must mas-
ter it. (Neutral)
2 Secrecy. The uninitiated must not access forbid-
den knowledge. (Lawful)
3 Discovery. The world is full of hidden truths
waiting to be uncovered. (Chaotic)
4 Legacy. I will leave behind a legacy of
knowledge. (Neutral)
5 Ambition. I will stop at nothing to achieve unpa-
ralleled power. (Evil)
6 Protection. Dangerous knowledge must be kept
from the wrong hands. (Good)
d6 Bond
1 I'm part of a network of scholars and seekers.
2 There's a forbidden tome I seek above all else.
3 I have a mentor who introduced me to the arcane
arts.
4 There's a secret society or order I'm affiliated
with.
5 I have a rival seeker who's always one step
ahead.
6 There's an artifact or relic that I must protect at
all costs.
d6 Flaw
1 I'm obsessed with a particular prophecy or
legend.
2 I can be overly secretive, even when there's no
need.
3 I can be dismissive of "mundane" knowledge.
4 I sometimes risk too much in my quest for
power.
5 I believe my knowledge and abilities are supe-
rior.
6 I'm haunted by a past mistake or misuse of
knowledge.
Slum Survivor
You grew up on the streets, forced to fend for yourself and
steal to survive. You learned to be ruthless and cunning in
order to survive, and you have very little loyalty to anyone
except yourself and few close friends.
Skill Proficiencies: Survival, plus your choice of one
from among Acrobatics, Deception, Perception, and
Sleight of Hand
Tool Proficiencies: Thieves' tools
Languages: None
Equipment: A stolen dagger, a set of dark common clo-
thes including a hood, and a pouch containing
10 gp.
Feature: Resourceful
As a street survivor, you have learned to survive and
thrive in the harsh and often unforgiving environment of
the city. You have mastered the art of scavenging for food
and resources. You know the streets like the back of your
hand, and you have a network of contacts and allies who
can help you get what you need. You are resourceful and
always ready to adapt to new situations, and you are not
afraid to get your hands dirty in order to get what you
need. When the party is in a city, you are the one they
turn to for finding food and basic equipment, as you have
a knack for finding the best deals and the most reliable
sources.
d6 Personality Trait
1 I always have an escape plan.
2 I find it hard to trust, but when I do, it's absolute.
3 I'm resourceful, often making use of whatever's
at hand.
4 I despise the wealthy who look down on the less
fortunate.
5 I have a knack for blending into crowds.
6 I often use street slang or jargon.
d6 Ideal
1 Adaptability. The key to survival is adapting to
one's surroundings. (Neutral)
2 Comradery. The streets raised me; its inhabi-
tants are my family. (Good)
3 Independence. Relying on others is a weakness.
(Chaotic)
4 Retaliation. Only blood will stop those who prey
on the weak. (Evil)
5 Opportunity. Every situation has potential; you
just need to find it. (Neutral)
12
6 Freedom. No one should be confined or op-
pressed. (Chaotic)
d6 Bond
1 I owe my life to the streets and will defend its
inhabitants.
2 There's a specific charity that once helped me;
I'll always support them.
3 I have a pet that's been with me through thick
and thin.
4 A particular street vendor always gave me food
when I was hungry.
5 I have a makeshift family among the street dwel-
lers.
6 There's a guard or city official who's always been
kind to me.
d6 Flaw
1 I sometimes steal, even when I don't need to.
2 I'm fiercely territorial about my "turf."
3 I find it hard to fit into society.
4 I'm skeptical of anyone who hasn't experienced
hardship.
5 I can be overly defensive.
6 I struggle with long-term commitments.
Vengeful Outcast
You were once a member of a powerful organization,
but you were betrayed and left for dead. Now you seek
revenge against those who wronged you, and you will stop
at nothing to achieve your goals.
Skill Proficiencies: Stealth, and any one from a Charis-
ma skill of your choice
Tool Proficiencies: None
Languages: One of your choice
Equipment: A quickly drawn portrait of the head of your
former organization, a set of common clothes, and a
pouch containing 15 gp.
Feature: Clean Your Tracks
You have formed ties with an assassins' guild and there-
fore know what and who to look for in order to locate this
guild in various cities. Using your connections you can
hire someone in the guild to cover your tracks and hide
the unmentionables that crop up in your path for revenge
(at the discretion of the Dungeon Master).
d6 Personality Trait
1 I have a habit of not letting things go.
2 I often work out scenarios of revenge in my mind.
3 I'm wary of making new allies.
4 I have a specific ritual I perform before taking
revenge.
5 I often speak in a low, threatening tone.
6 I have a piercing gaze that makes others un-
comfortable.
d6 Ideal
1 Reprisal. Those who betray others must earn it
back tenfold. (Evil)
2 Past. One's past defines them, for better or worse.
(Neutral)
3 Honor. Betrayal is the worst crime. (Lawful)
4 Redemption. Everyone deserves a chance to
make amends. (Good)
5 Isolation. It's safer to handle things alone than
rely on others. (Neutral)
6 Justice. Those who wrong othersmust face jus-
tice. (Lawful)
Races
We wanted to open a gateway into the fearsome, yet
fascinating realm of the extraordinary and the grotesque
through non-typical player races for a truly uncanny cha-
racter. Here you will find new racial options that offer a
fresh, challenging perspective on the game and a chance
to walk in the shoes - or hooves - of the creatures that
often lurk in the shadows.
Twin-headed Ogre
Monstrous and awe-inspiring, these two-headed behe-
moths cast an imposing figure across the landscape. As
they say, two heads are better than one and that is exactly
what is shown here as two players are meant to pilot this
hulk. Each of the ogre’s heads operates independently in
a shared body, one dedicated to brute force and the other
to arcane arts. When they work in tandem it is an unsett-
ling sight for any unprepared combatant.
Given the uniqueness of how this creature is played
by two players, we’ve also included a short section
beyond the racial traits for further explanation on
mechanics in game. Remember that your DM has
final say on how an effect or ability may play out.
13
d6 Bond
1 I keep a memento from my past as a constant
vreminder.
2 There’s someone out there who stood by me
when no one else did.
3 I once belonged to an organization, and I still
have contacts within it.
4 I have a diary that contains all the names of those
who wronged me.
5 There’s a place I once called home, and I hope to
return someday.
6 I have a sworn enemy whom I will confront one
day.
d6 Flaw
1 I act without thinking when I see an opportunity
for revenge.
2 I have nightmares about my past.
3 I find it hard to trust, often to my detriment.
4 I can be overly suspicious of others’ motives.
5 I struggle to let go of grudges.
6 I often see betrayal where there is none.
Racial Traits
The following traits are common to both of the Twin-
headed Ogre’s heads:
Alignment. Any
Size. As a twin-headed Ogre, you are larger than most
humans, standing anywhere from 6.9 to 7.9 feet tall.
Your size is Medium.
Darkvision. Accustomed to life underground, you
have superior vision in dark and dim conditions. You can
see in dim light within 60 feet of you as if it were bright
light.
Two Heads. The Ogre has two heads, each with its
own mind and characteristics. The martial ogre has grea-
ter grasp over the body and the arcane head is capable
of terrifying magic. Each head is created as a separate
character with its own ability scores, known proficien-
cies, initiative and actions. Additionally, abilities, effects,
feats, attacks or spells that affect the mind (such as saves
for Intelligence, Wisdom, or Charisma) affect the Ogre
head targeted.
One Body. Armor Class and the HP pool are shared
by both ogre heads and are determined by the ability
scores of the martial ogre. Additionally, abilities, effects,
attacks or spells that affect their shared body (such as
saves for Strength, Dexterity or Constitution) affect both
Ogre heads.
 Nimble Save. Whenever a spell, an ability or any ac-
tion would target one creature with a saving throw it must
choose to target one of the ogre heads, the martial one
or the arcane one. For saving throws that affect the mind
(Intelligence, Wisdom, and Charisma), only one head can
be targeted. Strength, Dexterity, and Constitution saving
throws affect the body, so both heads must make a roll.
If even one head fails their save, the effect will be applied
but any damage is only applied once to their shared HP.
Fast Metabolism. Any effect with a duration is halved
when applied to one or both ogre heads or their shared
body.
Languages. You can fluently read, write, and speak
Common and Giant.
The Martial Ogre Head
This Ogre head represents the twin who claimed the
lion's share of their body's physical prowess. An embo-
diment of brute strength and battle-hardened resilience,
this twin harnesses the raw power of the shared ogre
form, asserting itself as the front-line protector and enfor-
cer.
Ability Score Increase. Your Strength score increases
by 2, and another ability score of your choice increases by
1.
Speed. Your base walking speed is 25 ft.
Intimidating Presence. You gain proficiency in the
Intimidation skill.
Martial Class. You must be a fighter or barbarian.
Protective Brother. After either Ogre head receives
damage, you may spend your Reaction and once per turn,
for one minute, can deal an extra 1d8 damage to your
damage roll for one creature you hit with an attack. This
ability cannot be used again until you finish a long rest.
The Arcane Ogre Head
Rather than competing in the realm of physical might
with its brother, this Ogre twin honed its mind, embracing
the arcane arts as its weapon and shield. This cerebral
pursuit has yielded potent magical abilities that provi-
de a powerful counterbalance to the martial twin's
brute strength.
Ability Score Increase. Your Intelligence or Charisma
score increases by 2 and another ability score of your
choice increases by 1.
Speed. Your base walking speed is 10ft.
Insightful. You gain proficiency in the Insights
skill.
Magical Class. You must be a wizard or sorcerer.
Arcane Assitant. You gain the mage hand cantrip.
Clever Brother. During the Martial ogre’s turn, you
14
can spend your Reaction to double their speed until the
end of their turn but your speed becomes 0 on your next
turn. Your speed returns to normal on subsequent turns
until you use this ability again.
Creating and Playing
the Twin-headed Ogre
To create your twin-headed ogre, grab another like-
minded player and follow these steps for character
creation:
Choose Martial or Arcane. One player will need to
choose the Martial ogre head and the other player, the
Arcane ogre head.
Choose your Class. Check the racial traits above for the
classes your ogre head can take.
Apply Your Ability Scores. Both players will roll ability
scores for their particular ogre head and augment them
per the racial traits above.
Set Armor Class. The AC of both ogre heads is the same
and is determined by the martial ogre’s stats.
Calculate Hit Points. The HP pool of the Ogre is also
determined by the martial ogre, but is a shared pool for
both heads.
Background. For character background, we suggest
working with your DM in order to create a custom back-
ground that best suits your twin-headed ogre. This cus-
tom background could be individual for each ogre head,
or shared between the two. A custom background usually
comprises choices of either: 2 Skills and 2 Tools, 2 Skills
and 2 Languages, or 2 Skills, 1 Tool and 1 Language.
Alignment & Personality Traits. Each ogre head can
choose their own alignment and personality traits, ideals,
bonds, and flaws.
Equipment & One Body. Each character has up to three
attunement slots and their attuned items can only be used
by the ogre head that has attuned to them. For example:
If the Arcane ogre head attuned to a staff that grants +2 to
hit, that bonus would not apply or benefit the Martial
ogre head.
Per the One Body ability, only the martial ogre can benefit
from boosts to its AC and HP, inclusive of equipment, spells
or abilities. This means that the Arcane ogre could cast
spells with AC or HP benefits on the Martial ogre, but not
on itself. Additionally, the Martial ogre is the only one that
can equip armor or items that affect AC including items or
equipment that would increase Dexterity and Constitution,
but these types of items are utterly unsuable by the Arcane
orge.
ASIs & Feats. As the characters level, they are able to ap-
ply ability score increases (ASIs) as determined by class
level and feats can still be taken in place of those ASIs,
but only affect the Ogre head that has taken that feat with
some limitations:
If a feat directly affects the HP or AC, only the martial
ogre head can take it.
ASIs that would increase Dexterity or Constitution
affect the Ogre head that has taken it, and these increases
by the Martial Ogre head increasing the shared AC and
HP pool.
Below are a number of examples of how the game mecha-
nics, abilities and effects apply to the Twin-headed ogre:
Sleep Schedule. The two heads share a sleep cycle and
sleep simultaneously.
Inspiration. Inspiration is individual to each ogre head.
Cover. Benefits for cover applies for both ogre heads.
Save Effects That Could Affect Both Ogre Heads. Per
Nimble Save, Intelligence, Wisdom, and Charisma saving
throws are handled based on the targeted head, but a
15
failed save could inevitably affect both heads. Such is
the case for the Banishment spell as a failure results in
the entire twin-headed ogre banished to another plane of
existence. An alternate ruling would be to banish just the
head affected (without outright death of beheading!), but
the DM has final word on how these effects are levied.
A Strength, Dexterity, or Constitution saving throw example
would be an area of effect like the Fireball spell. This would
affect both characters, and Nimble Save would require them
both to make saving throws. If only one character succeeds,
or if they both fail, then the full damage from the spell is
subtracted from their shared HP. If both succeed, then half
damage is taken. Check with your DM whether a feat or abi-
lity that grants half damage on a failed save can apply.
More on Fast Metabolism. This ability takes into account
all effects that have a duration, whether from enemies,
environment, allies or even the twin-headed ogres own
abilities or spells regardless of if the outcome is positive
or negative.
A few examples:
 An effect poisons the ogre and the duration is meant to Poisoned - This condition applied to the body and as
last 1 minute (10 rounds), it instead lasts 30 seconds (5 such, both ogre heads.
rounds). Prone - This condition applied to the body and as such,
Another party member casts invisibility which normally both ogre heads. One ogre head can use their movement
lasts for 1 hour but for the Ogre lasts 30 minutes instead. speed to stand up and end the condition, allowing the
The Arcane ogre head casts the Alter Self spell in order other freedom of movement on their turn.
to grant 1 hour of water breathing and swim speed, but Restrained - This condition applied to the body and as
these temporary abilities last for 30 minutes instead. such, both ogre heads.
Stunned - Depending on the source of the condition this
Shapeshifting. When a shapechanging spell is cast, per could be applied to each head individually (such as a men-
Nimble Save, one of the heads must be the chosen target, tal save: INT, WIS, CHA) or automatically applied to the
unless the spell can target multiple creatures such as body affecting both ogre heads (such as a physical effect,
Mass Polymorph, and all the usual save mechanics built STR, DEX, CON).
into the spell apply. Unconscious - Like with the Stunned condition, this
If an effect forces the ogre to transform, each round one could be applied to each head individually, or applied to
head takes control of the body at random. Shapeshifting the body and affects both heads, based on the source of
spells (and other spells with a duration) cast on the ogre the condition.
have their duration halved, per Fast Metabolism.
Shapeshifting spells cast by the Arcane ogre, such as Death and Resurrection. Death comes for all of us, but
Alter Self or Shapechange take effect immediately on the in the case of a Twin-headed Ogre, the three death saves
whole ogre, martial head included, without a save per are rolled together, alternating rolls between the two ogre
their spell descriptions. heads. A spell or effect that can resurrect or revive will
bring both heads back to life.
Conditions. Many conditions will affect just the ogre head
that was targeted or failed their save, however in some Clash of Brothers. When the two characters find them-
cases, a condition may affect the body and as such, both selves in disagreement, it may lead to moments of intense
ogre heads. Below are our suggested rulings for how debate and negotiation. Ultimately, the martial character,
these conditions would affect the Twin-headed Ogre, but with its greater control over their shared physique, holds
your DM has the final say on how these conditions would a level of dominance over their collective actions. This do-
be applied: minance, however, is not absolute as the magical charac-
ter could use its magical abilities to subtly, yet effectively,
Blinded - Can be applied to each head individually. In tip the scales in his favor. A few examples could be using
order for attack rolls against the ogre to have advantage, spells to teleport, shapeshift or withhold opportunities for
both heads must be blinded. All other effects are the double movement via the Clever Brother ability.
same.
Charmed - Can be applied to each head individually.
Deafened - Can be applied to each head individually.
Exhaustion - Points of exhaustion apply to both ogre
heads at the same time. The fourth point of exhaustion
only halves their hit point maximum once as this is a
shared pool. All other exhaustion effects remain the same.
Frightened - Can be applied to each head individually
with the following change: If one Ogre head is frightened,
it halves the movement speed of the other Ogre head if
that movement is towards the source of its fear. (General-
ly, as each head moves on its own turn, a frightened ogre
head may also use its movement to move away from the
source of its fear).
Grappled - This condition applies to the body and as
such, both ogre heads.
Incapacitated - Can be applied to each head individually.
Invisible - This condition applied to the body and as such,
both ogre heads.
Paralyzed - This condition applied to the body and as
such, both ogre heads.
Petrified - This condition applied to the body and as such,
both ogre heads.

16
Immature Vampire
In the darkness dwell the vampires, beings of folklore
and dread, yearning for mortal blood, or to expand their
progeny While in their immature form, vampires expe-
rience an intersection of humanity and undeath, leading
them to a life of exploration and self-discovery within the
constraints of societal norms and laws.

Racial Traits
Ability Score Increase. Increase one ability score by
2 and increase a different one by 1, or increase three
different ability scores by 1.

Age. You do not age.

Alignment. Any alignment, but tend to be lawful.

Size. Your size is Medium.

Speed. Your walking speed is 30 feet.

Darkvision. You can see in dim light within 60

feet of you as if it were bright light and in darkness
as if it were dim light. You discern colors in that
darkness only as shades of gray.

Creature Type. You gain the Humanoid and

Undead creature types and are affected by all
effects that target such creatures (such as the
paladin’s divine smite damage bonus or the cleric’s
turn undead).

Sunlight Sensitivity. You have disadvantage

on attack rolls and Wisdom (Perception) checks
while within direct sunlight or within the radius of a
daylight spell.

Vampiric Bite. Once you reach 5th level, you can

cast the Vampiric Touch spell once per long rest as
a 3rd-level spell. Charisma is your spellcasting ability
for this spell.

Vampiric Resistance. You have resistance to ne-

crotic damage and poison damage.

Languages. You know common and one additional

language of your choice.

17
Corrupted Beastfolk
Once noble creatures, Corrupted Beastfolk have been
warped by fell magics or by twisted mages into becoming
monstrous versions of their former selves. Skulking in
shadows by day and roaming the wilderness by night,
they embody a tragic, primal resilience against the
relentless corruption of arcane forces. Their interactions
with magic fuel their fury, a testament to their resentment
against spellcasters that caused their malignant transfor-
mation.
Racial Traits
Ability Score Increase. Your Strength score increases
by 2, and your Constitution score increases by 1.
Age. Corrupted Beastfolk age similarly to humans.
Alignment. Their corruption has a profound effect on a
beastfolk's psyche. Most Corrupted Beastfolk lean towar-
ds chaos, with a fair number embodying an evil alignment.
Size. Corrupted Beastfolk vary in size but are generally
similar to humans, ranging from 5 to 6 feet tall. Your size
is Medium.
Speed. Your base walking speed is 30 feet.
18
Darkvision. Your corrupted nature and exposure to
the darkness grant you superior vision in dark and dim
conditions. You can see in dim light within 60 feet of you
as if it were bright light, and in darkness as if it were dim
light.
Beastly Nature. You gain the humanoid and monstro-
sity creature types and are affected by all spells or effects
that targets such creatures
Corrupted Fury. Your corruption gives you an instinc-
tual wrath against magic. Whenever you are targeted by a
spell, your next melee attack within the next minute deals
an extra 1d6 damage. This ability does not stack with
itself.
Magic Resistance. You have advantage on saving
throws against spells and other magical effects, and resis-
tance to damage from spells.
Intimidating Presence. You have proficiency in the
Intimidation skill.
Languages. You can speak, read, and write Common
and one extra language of your choice.
New Archetypes
This section introduces a series of intriguing new races
or what we like to call, Archetypes. Each one is steeped
in enigma and laced with the potent allure of power to
increase the unique role-playing prospects and mechanics
for you and your players.
Designed for universal adaptability, these fit seamlessly
into any campaign setting, expanding your character’s
narrative horizons. But tread lightly. Each archetype,
though rich in power and allure, treads the razor’s edge
between light and dark. The moral compass of your cha-
racter lies in your hands, allowing for profound explora-
tions of good, evil, and all the gray shades between.
Skin. The vitality of your victim fuels you. Gain tem-
porary hit points equal to your Barbarian level
+ your Constitution modifier.
Heart. The courage of your victim hardens your re-
solve. Gain advantage on saving throws against
effects that would charm or frighten you.
Foot. The swiftness of your victim quickens your
pace. Your movement speed increases by 10
feet.
Hand. The might of your victim strengthens your
attacks. Gain a +1 bonus to attack and damage
rolls for your melee weapon attacks.

Barbarian - Each benefit can only be activated once for the duration
of your rage. If you consume another enemy and roll a
Path of the Savage Feast benefit that is already active, you can choose another
non-activated benefit instead.
For some barbarians, rage is more than just a surge of When your rage ends, any active Cannibalism effects
adrenaline; it’s a call from the primal forces within, a hun- also end.
ger that can only be satisfied by the raw, visceral thrill of
the hunt. Those who follow the Path of the Savage Feast
are not mindless savages, they are predators at the top of
the food chain, using every part of their kill as trophies,
sustenance, and tools to enhance their combat prowess.

These barbarians have become relentless pursuers of

their prey in order to consume and fuel their own stren-
gth. From the heart of their victims, they draw vitality;
from the skin, they gain resiliency; from the brain,
they glean knowledge. This path is not for the faint of
heart... or stomach. But for those that can overcome
the deepest taboos, the power gained from embracing
one’s predatory nature is immeasurable.

Cannibalism
3rd-level Path of the Savage Feast feature

Your rage becomes a hunger that you satiate with the

flesh of your fallen enemies. During your rage, when
you or an ally reduce a humanoid enemy to 0 hit points,
and the enemy’s corpse is within 5 feet of you, you may
use your bonus action to tear into the fallen enemy and
consume a piece of it. Once consumed in this manner,
you cannot use this feature again on that enemy.

Upon consumption, you can roll 1d4 to randomly obtain

one of the following effects that lasts for the duration of
your rage:

19
Expanded Harvest
6th-level Path of the Savage Feast feature
Your Cannabalism ability extends to more creature types.
You can now also harvest parts from aberrations, beasts,
and monstrosities which have a CR of 1 or greater. These
bonuses are granted until you finish a long rest unless
otherwise stated.
Aberration. You access a piece of the victim’s
knowledge or gaining proficiency in one
skill of the DM’s choice that the crea-
ture had for 1 hour.
Beast. Consuming a part of a beast sharpens
your senses, allowing you to add your
proficiency bonus to Perception checks
and initiative rolls.
Monstrosity.
you gain a Charge feature. If you move
at least 10 feet straight toward a target
and then hit it with an attack on the
same turn, the target takes an extra 2
(1d4) damage of your weapon type. If
the target is a creature, it must succeed
on a DC 13 Strength saving throw or be
pushed up to 5 feet away and knocked
prone.
Consume Brain
10th-level Path of the Savage Feast feature
Your consumption now accesses the knowledge of the
fallen. Upon eating the brain from a corpse that died wit-
hin the past week,cast the speak with dead or the augury
spell, without the need for material components.
After you cast either spell in this way, you can’t use this
feature again until you finish a short or long rest.
Predator’s Gaze
14th-level Path of the Savage Feast feature
When you use Cannibalism, you gaze at one living
creature within 30 feet. They must make DC 16 Wisdom
saving throw or become Frightened until the end of their
next turn. If they succeed, they become immune to this
feature for the next 24 hours.
You may use this feature a number of times equal to your
Constitution modifier before you must take a long rest.
20
Bard - College of Sorrow
In the grand tapestry of bardic tradition, few threads are
as dark or mournful as those belonging to the College of
Sorrow. These bards are the dirge singers at life’s twi-
light, the sorrowful song echoing in the heart of darkness.
Drawn to the shadows and desolation, they find beauty
and inspiration in despair and melancholy while com-
posing songs of loss and heartache. to sap the courage
of their enemies. Their mournful melodies do not just
recount tales of tragedy, they weave them into reality.
Dread Arpeggio
3rd-level College of Sorrow feature
You’ve learned all new ways to inspire dread in your
enemies with the music of your voice. When using Bardic
Inspiration, you may choose an enemy creature you can
see within 60 feet of you that can hear you.
Instead of the usual effects, the enemy target must sub-
tract the number rolled on the Bardic Inspiration die from
its next saving throw. Creatures immune to being frighte-
ned are unaffected.
Dissonant Diminuendo
3rd-level College of Sorrow feature
Your melancholic tunes affect the very essence of a space
creating a deep sense of unease and discomfort. As an
action, you play a haunting melody that creates an aura of
despair in a 60 ft. sphere centered on yourself. This area
is lightly obscured and lasts for 10 minutes or until you
stop playing.
Within the area, non-hostile creatures have disadvantage
on Wisdom (Perception) checks. Charisma checks made
to influence creatures within the area gain advantage.
Shadow Symphony
6th-level College of Sorrow feature
Your music becomes a conduit for unholy energies to ma-
nipulate the shadows around you. As a bonus action, you,
or one ally within 30 feet of you, may teleport up to 30 ft.
to an unoccupied space in sight that is also in dim light
or darkness. Once you use this feature, you cannot use it
again until you finish a short or long rest.
Requiem of Unraveling Spectral Domain Spells
14th-level College of Sorrow feature 1st-level Spectral Domain feature

Your music can now drain the will to fight from your Your deity allows you access to the spectral world, gran-
enemies. ting you domain spells tied to spirits and the ethereal
As an action, you begin a performance that lasts until the realm.
end of your next turn. During that time, any enemy that
starts its turn within 30 ft. of you and can hear you must Cleric Level Spells
make a Wisdom saving throw against your spell save DC. 1st fear, unseen servant
On a failed save, the enemy has disadvantage on attack
rolls and saving throws until the start of its next turn. 3rd magic mouth, see invisibility

5th phantom steed, speak with dead

Once you use this feature, you must finish a long rest
before you can use it again. 7th greater invisibility, phantasmal killer
9th astral projection, dominate person

Bonus Proficiency
1st-level Spectral Domain feature

When you choose this domain at 1st level, you gain profi-
ciency with martial weapons and heavy armor.

Emergency Possession
1st-level Spectral Domain feature

You learn how to initiate a spectral bond with another

living creature, passing on damage you’ve incurred.

When a creature hits you with an attack, you may use

your reaction and choose a creature within 5 ft. of you
that you can see to make a Wisdom saving throw against
your spell save DC. On a failure, you become resistant
to the damage of the triggering attack and the linked
creature takes necrotic damage equal to the damage you
receive after applying resistance.

You can use this feature a number of times equal to

your Wisdom modifier (a minimum of once), and re-
gain all expended uses when you finish a long rest.

Channel Divinity: Spectral Command

2nd-level Spectral Domain feature

Cleric - Spectral Domain You can now use your Channel Divinity to attempt to
seize control of spirits.
Spectral Domain Clerics have tapped into the enigmatic
As an action, target one undead creature that you can see
forces of death and the beyond, communing with spirits
within 30 ft. of you to make a Wisdom saving throw. On
and harnessing their spectral power. Often shrouded
a failure, they obey your commands for 1 minute or until
in an aura of eerie dread, they can command ghostly
you use this Channel Divinity option again. This effect
entities and even become ghost-like themselves. Often,
is automatically resisted by undead creatures with a CR
these clerics might serve deities associated with death,
above ¼ of your level rounded down (minimum 1).
the afterlife, or spirits, or they might follow a more obs-
cure, sinister path.

21
Spirit Walk
6th-level Spectral Domain feature
You can use your action to step into the Ethereal Plane.
You become ghost-like and translucent, gain resistance to
all non-magical damage, can move through other crea-
tures and objects as if they were difficult terrain, and have
advantage on stealth checks.
This effect lasts for 10 minutes, and you can use it a num-
ber of times equal to your Wisdom modifier (a minimum
of one time). You regain all expended uses when you
finish a long rest.
Potent Spellcasting
8th-level Spectral Domain feature
You add your Wisdom modifier to the damage you deal
with any cleric cantrip.
Call on the Spirits
17th-level Spectral Domain feature
You can cast Create Undead as a bonus action and imme-
diately give an order to the undead created this way. Once
you have used this feature, you can’t use it again until you
have completed a long rest.
22
Druid - Circle of Withering
Druids of the Circle of Withering have a twisted connec-
tion to nature given their often weakened or pained
existences. They find comfort and connection with crea-
tures that often appear unpleasant or dangerous such as
snakes, vultures, and even werewolves. Embracing these
rejected forms of nature, they learned to use the acids and
poisons to correct what nature seemed to have deprived
them. Now these druids exhibit the frightening true poten-
tial of nature in their warped bodies.
Withering Transformation
2nd-level Circle of Withering feature
You gain the ability to use your Wild Shape as a bonus
action to instead transform into a Withered Abomination,
a grotesque mockery of nature’s creatures.
This humanoid form grants you temporary hit points
equal to three times your druid level, which are lost once
you revert back to your regular form. You also retain the
ability to wield weapons and utilize equipment you were
using prior to your transformation. When you attack in
Withered Abomination form, you can use your Wisdom
modifier, instead of Strength or Dexterity, for the attack
and damage rolls.
You can stay in this form for a number of rounds equal to
your Wisdom modifier (minimum of 1), at the end of your
turn after you’ve reached this limit, make a DC 15 Wis-
dom saving throw. On a success you maintain your form
for one extra round. Each successive round, the DC to
maintain this form increases by 1. On a failure, you revert
to your normal form.
Corrupted Combatant
2nd-level Circle of Withering feature
You gain proficiency with martial weapons.
Abomination Style
2nd-level Circle of Withering feature
You can use your powers to improve the attacks of your
Withered Abomination form.
Extra Acid. When you deal acid damage, you can
expend a spell slot to deal additional acid
damage equal to 1d8 per level of the spell
slot.
Corrosive The creature must succeed on a Constitu-
Strike tion saving throw against your spell save
(1st-level DC or gain -2 AC until the end of your next
spell slot). turn
Extra attack Additionally, as an action, you can touch a creature and
6th-level Circle of Withering feature neutralize poisons affecting it. You can use this feature
a number of times equal to your Wisdom modifier (mini-
You can attack twice when you are in Withered Abomina- mum once), and you regain all expended uses when you
tion form, instead of once, whenever you take the Attack finish a long rest.
action on your turn.
Fighter - Dark Knight
Stronger Abomination
10th-level Circle of Withering feature In the darkest corners of the realm, far from the watchful
eyes of the common folk and even the suspicious gaze
You gain an extra abomination style: of rogues and thieves, there are those who harness the
darkness, those who become one with the unseen forces
Blinding You spray acid to the eyes of your target at of the universe. These are the Dark Knights, warriors of
Hit (2nd-le- the same time you are hitting. The crea- immense strength and fearsome prowess who bend the
vel spell ture must succeed on a Dexterity saving laws of reality to their indomitable will.
slot). throw against your spell save DC or be
blinded until the end of your next turn. Their presence alone is enough to chill the bravest hearts,
and their martial skills are only matched by their mental
Unnatural Camouflage fortitude. Those who dare to cross blades with a Dark
10th-level Circle of Withering feature Knight seldom live to tell the tale. They are not merely fi-
ghters; they are the harbingers of a deeper, darker power.
Your connection to decay and rot allows you to blend
in with such environments. You can cast the spell Pass
Without Trace without expending a spell slot, but only in Telekinesis
swamps, graveyards, or other locations associated with 3rd-level Dark Knight feature
decay, rot, or death.
When you choose this archetype at 3rd level,
Toxic Embalming your mental strength grants you
14th-level Circle of Withering feature limited telekinesis power and
you gain a pool of telekinesis
You draw strength from your corro- equal to your Wisdom
sive abilities. Whenever a creature modifier + your profi-
dies that has taken acid damage ciency bonus (mini-
from you in the last round, mum 1). Whenever
you regain hit points equal you finish a long
to the acid damage you rest, you regain all
dealt to the creature in expended uses.
that round.
Your save DC for
Withered your telekinesis
Resilience abilities equals 8 +
14th-level Circle of your proficiency bo-
Withering feature nus + your Wisdom
modifier.
Your transforma-
tion has made your At 7th level, your
body extraordinarily understanding of your
resilient. While own mind expands. Gain
in your Withered proficiency in Wisdom
Abomination form, saving throws.
you have resistance to At 10th level, your Telekinesis
poison damage and ad- surges with greater precision.
vantage on saving throws Your save DC is now equal to 8 +
against the poisoned your proficiency bonus + your Wis-
condition. dom or Strength modifier (your choice).

23
Psychic Summons
3rd-level Dark Knight feature
As a bonus action, expend points from your telekinesis
pool to move objects or creatures:
1 Point Move an object you can see in a range of 30
feet. The object cannot weigh more than 10
lbs or be moved more than 30 ft.
away from you.
2 Points Choose a creature within 60 ft. of you to
make a Strength saving throw against
your telekinesis DC. On a failure, you use
your mind to forcibly move that creature in a
straight line 10 ft. closer to yourself.
When you successfully use Psychic Summons on a crea-
ture and hit that creature with a melee attack on the same
turn, your weapon deals an additional die of damage.
24
Willful Decree
7th-level Dark Knight feature
It’s mind over matter, and your mind is stronger. When
you would be successfully hit by a ranged attack, you may
use your reaction and expend 1 point from your telekine-
sis pool to reduce the damage from the attack by 1d10 +
your Wisdom modifier + your fighter level.
Supernatural Suppresion
10th-level Dark Knight feature
What a mind believes, becomes real, and you’ve learned
how to use that to your advantage. As a bonus action,
expend 2 points from your telekinesis pool and choose a
creature you see within 20 ft. to make a Constitution save
against your telekinesis save DC. On a failure, they suffer
1d6 bludgeoning damage and become restrained until
the end of their next turn.
You may concentrate on using this feature for up to 1
minute by using your bonus action on your next turn
to continue squeezing the neck of your target. If you
do so, the target must make a new saving throw,
suffering the same damage and effect on a failure.
While concentrating on Supernatural Suffocation,
you cannot expend any further points from your
telekinesis pool. If you or the target are more
than 20 ft. away from each other while you are
concentrating on this effect, the effect imme-
diately ends.
Imposing Mind
15th-level Dark Knight feature
You have learned to skillfully impose your
superior presence on a living creature
with just an afterthought. As a bonus
action, expend 2 points from your
telekinesis pool to target a creature
within 30 ft. They must make a Wisdom
saving throw or become Frightened and
suffer 1d8 + Wisdom modifier psychic
damage.
Unstoppable
18th-level Dark Knight feature
Starting at 18th level, you receive vital psychic feedback
whenever you reduce a hostile creature to 0 hit points
and regain telekinesis points equal to your Wisdom modi-
fier (minimum of 1).
Monk - Way of the Hex Slothful. The creature’s speed is reduced by 10 feet
and it loses its flight ability if it has one.
Practitioners of the Way of the Hex are far from traditio- Uncer- The creature’s attacks deal damage with a
nal monks. They specialize in invoking their Ki energy to tainty. -1 penalty.
craft unique curses to hex their foes, and sow confusion
Unstea- The creature suffers a penalty of -1d4 on
and disarray among their enemies. This specialized use
diness. Dexterity saving throws.
of Ki allows them to manipulate the battlefield in subtle
yet profound ways, shaping the course of combat to their Vulnera- Once per turn, the creature takes extra da-
advantage. bility. mage equal to your Martial Arts die whene-
These monks have learned to take their inner spiritual en- ver it is hit by a spell.
ergy and twist it, using their understanding of life force to Wea- The creature can either take an action or a
inflict suffering rather than heal. With a touch, they afflict riness. bonus action on its turn, not both.
their enemies with various debilitating conditions, from
painful debility to bewildering obsession, crippling their
enemies and giving the monks the upper hand. Touch of Affliction
3rd-level Way of the Hex feature
Curse Forging
3rd-level Way of the Hex feature When you hit a living crea-
ture with an unarmed
Starting at 3rd level, when you choose this tradition, you melee attack, you can
gain the ability to craft a unique curse. spend 1 ki point to af-
flict it with your curse.
From the list below, learn two curse effects of your The creature must
choice which will be applied whenever you curse a target. succeed a Constitu-
Cursed targets must make a Constitution saving throw tion saving throw
against your Ki save DC. On a failure, the curse takes or be cursed. The
effect immediately and lasts until the end of the creature’s curse takes effect
next turn. immediately and
lasts until the end of
Spells that remove curses, such as greater restoration or the next turn of the
remove curse, can be used to remove these curse effects. affected creature.
If a cursed target is re-cursed before the previous one
expires, the duration of the curse is extended by one turn, Proximal
not compounded. Contagion
6th-level Way of the
Curse Effects Hex feature
Agony. Once per turn, the creature takes extra
necrotic damages equal to your Martial Arts From the 6th level,
die whenever you hit them with a melee when a cursed creature
attack. you see dies, as a reaction
you can spend 2 ki points
Amplified The DC to resist the effects of the curse is
to cause the corpse to
Curse. higher by 1.
explode and make one living
Bewilder. The creature suffers a penalty of -1d4 on creature within 5 feet of your
Intelligence saving throws. choice make a saving throw or
Blurred The creature has disadvantage on their be cursed.
Sight. next attack roll.
Corrup- The creature suffers a penalty of -1d4 on
Curse Enhancement
6th-level Way of the Hex feature
tion. Constitution saving throws.
Distress. The creature suffers a penalty of -1d4 on Your curse repertoire grows and you can
Wisdom saving throws. choose one additional curse effect as part of the
Enfeeble. The creature suffers a penalty of -1d4 on curse you can apply.
Strength saving throws.
You gain an additional two curse effects at 11th
Lingering The curse’s duration lasts one round lon-
level, and a final additional curse effect (for a total of
Affliction. ger.
six) at 17th level.

25

Poison Absorber
11th-level Way of the Hex feature
When an ally suffers from the poisoned condition inflic-
ted by an enemy, you can remove this effect from them
and use the poison to augment your attacks. As a bonus
action, touch one poisoned ally and remove the poisoned
condition. Then gain advantage on attacks until the end of
your next turn.
Cursed Embodiment
17th-level Way of the Hex feature
When you use the Proximal Contagion feature, you can
spend an additional 1 ki point to augment its power.
Choose any number of creatures you can see within 10
feet of the corpse. Each of those creatures must succeed
a Constitution saving throw or take necrotic damage
equal to twice your Martial Arts die and are affected by
your curse. The creatures that succeeded take half da-
mage but are not cursed.
Paladin - Oath of the Inquisitor
The Oath of the Inquisitor binds a paladin to the
pursuit of judgment against those who would
seek to destroy the order of the world through
deceit, corruption, or heretical beliefs. Using the clean-
sing power of fire, the inquisitors aim to purify the land
from evils hiding in shadows. They often serve deities
of justice, truth, and order and many hold these
tenets to heart:
Judgment
I will be the instrument of justice,
and my judgment shall be guided by
the flame of truth.
Purification
Through almighty flame,
I shall cleanse the world of heresy,
corruption, and deceit.
Unyielding
I will not be swayed from my purpo-
se.
I am the shield against the darkness,
the torch in the shadows.
26
Inquisitor Oath Spells
You gain oath spells at the paladin levels listed.
Paladin Level Spells
3rd bane, burning hand
5th heat metal, zone of truth
9th dispel magic, fireball
13th banishment, wall of fire
17th dispel evil and good, flame strike
Channel Divinity:
3rd-level Oath of the Inquisitor feature
When you take this oath at 3rd level, you gain the fol-
lowing two Channel Divinity options.
Channel Condemn the Wicked, as a bonus action, you
Divinity: can use your Channel Divinity to imbue your
weapon with divine fire, consuming your pool
of healing power. For 1 minute, your weapon
attacks deal additional fire damage equal to
the number of hit points you choose to ex-
pend from your Lay on Hands feature, up to a
maximum of your paladin level.
Seek As a bonus action, you can utter a prayer to
the Hid- reveal that which lurks in the shadows. For
den: the next minute, every creature within 60
feet of you is marked with the symbol of your
deity. While marked, the creature sheds light
in a 10-foot radius, and it can’t benefit from
being invisible.
Aura of Purification
7th-level Oath of the Inquisitor feature
The fiery aura of your conviction burns
brightly around you. You and friendly
creatures within 10 feet of you have
resistance to fire damage and advan-
tage on saving throws against being
frightened. At 18th level, the range
of this aura increases to 30 feet.
Fire Resurgence
15th-level Oath of the Inquisitor
feature
When you reduce a creature to 0 hit
points with fire damage, you can imme-
diately regain a use of your Channel Di-
vinity. You must finish a long rest before
you can use this feature again.
Inquisitor’s Judgment
20th-level Oath of the Inquisitor feature Leaping Dodge
7th-level Pouncing Panther feature
Your righteous discernment cannot be contained if you
will it. As an action, you can emanate an aura of judgment Once you use Flash Leap, any creature within 5 feet of
and for 1 minute, gain the following benefits: your destination gains disadvantage on their next attack
Bright light shines from you in a 30-foot radius, roll against you before the start of your next turn.
and dim light shines 30 feet beyond that.
Whenever an enemy creature starts its turn in the You may now use Flash Leap a number of times equal to
bright light, the creature takes 10 radiant damage. twice your Dexterity modifier rounded down (minimum of
You and your allies in the bright light have advan- once) before you must finish a long rest.
tage on saving throws against spells and other magical
effects. Sideway Blow
11th-level Pouncing Panther feature
Once you use this feature, you can’t use it again until you
finish a long rest. During your Flash Leap, if your leap would travel adjacent
to one or more creatures, you may make one melee attack
against any one of those creatures.
Ranger - Pouncing Panther
In the heart of nature, swift and stealthy predators
reign supreme. Among these, the panther stands
out with its exceptional agility, stealth, and the
deadly precision of its pounce. A ranger who
follows the Pouncing Panther discipline learns
to mimic these characteristics, transforming the
battlefield into their personal hunting ground.

With the agility of the panther, they can move

with startling speed and fluidity, closing the gap
on their prey in the blink of an eye. Their strikes,
inspired by the devastating pounce of the panther,
are as sudden as they are deadly. Rangers of the
Pouncing Panther Discipline understand the true
essence of the hunt: the thrill of the chase, the rush of
the leap, and the satisfaction of a clean kill.

Flash Leap
3rd-level Pouncing Panther feature

Your agility and quick reflexes allow you to move with

dazzling speed. As a bonus action, you can leap to a spot
you can see within 30 feet without provoking opportunity
attacks. When you end your leap next to a creature, you
gain advantage on your first attack roll against each of
them until the end of your current turn.

You can use this feature a number of times equal to your

Dexterity modifier (a minimum of once) and regain all Leap of Life
expended uses when you finish a long rest. 15th-level Pouncing Panther feature

Starting at 15th level, when you use Flash Leap, you can
choose to regain hit points equal to your Ranger level.
Once you use this feature, you can’t use it again until you
finish a long rest.

27
Rogue - Soul Shifter
Soulshifters are treacherous spies and fearsome assas-
sins, masters at stealing the bodies of their victims. They
manipulate their prey like puppets, exploiting their know-
how in mastering souls.
The Soulshifters excel at infiltration, retrieving confiden-
tial information, and silently eliminating targets. Their
ability to handle negative energies and understand souls
makes them a formidable agent of darkness. They are a
mysterious force that acts without being limited by the
constraints of the physical world.
Soul Transposition
3rd-level Soul Shifter feature
When you take the Soul Shifter class you learn how to
make a sliver of your soul discreetly take ove rthe mind of
another.
Using your bonus action, choose a target humanoid
within 45 ft. of you to make an Intelligence saving throw
against your Soul Shifter DC (equal to 8 + your proficien-
cy bonus + your Dexterity modifier). On a failure, you en-
chant their mind for a brief moment and can make them
move up to half their speed. While moving in this manner,
they do not provoke opportunity attacks, and cannot be
made to move into a space that would directly harm it
(such as off a ledge).
The effects of Soul Transposition end at the end of your
turn.
28
Soul Domination
3rd-level Soul Shifter feature
Your grasp over the intricacies of the soul has granted
you new ways to strike down your foes. You gain an addi-
tional way to use Sneak Attack.
Whenever you successfully use Soul Transposition on
a target, you may use your Sneak Attack, inflicting it as
psychic damage to your target.
At 9th level, your Soul Domination is enhanced, allowing
you to instead lash out at a creature nearby to your Soul
Transposition Target. Instead of your target taking your
sneak attack damage, you may instead inflict it on a crea-
ture of your choice within 5 ft. of your Soul Transposition
target.
Presence of Souls
3rd-level Soul Shifter feature
Your understanding of souls grants you an acute sense of
the spiritual presences around you.
As a bonus action, you focus your senses to perceive the
presence of creatures you cannot see within a radius of
60 feet. This ability reveals the number and location of
creatures, but not their identity or exact form.
This sense can penetrate most barriers but is blocked by
1 foot of stone, 1 inch of common metal, a thin sheet of
lead, or 3 feet of wood or dirt. This ability does not allow
you to detect creatures that are in the Ethereal Plane.
You can use this power a number of times equal to your
proficiency bonus before completing a long rest.
Windows of the Soul every infernal transformation, edges them closer to the
9th-level Soul Shifter feature abyss. The Chosen of the Abyss are proof that terrifying
power often comes with a hefty price.
Whenever you successfully use Soul Transposi-
tion you may also take control of their eyes. When
you do, you mentally receive visual information
from the eyes of your target for 10 minutes.

The power ceases to work if the target changes

plane or if the distance between you is more than 1
mile. Once used, this ability can’t be used again until
you complete a long rest.

Command the Soul

13th-level Soul Shifter feature

Starting at level 13, your constant manipulation over

souls allows you to cast the dominate person spell once
per long rest.

Soul Fortress
17th-level Soul Shifter feature

Your knowledge and understanding of soul control is

absolute.

Soul Transposition can now be maintained for up to 1

minute as if you were concentrating on a spell, and your
target may repeat their saving throw at the end of their
next turn.

Double Veil Strike

17th-level Soul Shifter feature

You can make 2 sneak attacks per turn if one of them is

made through Soul Transposition, but you can’t use your
Sneak Attack against the same target more than once in
a turn.

You can use this power a number of times equal to your

proficiency bonus before completing a long rest.
Sorcerer - Chosen of the Abyss
A mortal who dares to forge a bond with the entities of
the Abyss pays a steep price: their own lifeblood fuels
their dire powers. As the Chosen of the Abyss, they bear
the indelible mark of their demonic patrons, their flesh
twisted into a living testament of the abyssal energies
they wield.
These sorcerers walk a perilous line between control
and chaos, their formidable powers always threatening
to consume them. Every spell, every summoned demon,
Bound to the Demon
1st-level Chosen of the Abyss feature
As the magic flows through your body, the physical traits
of your demon are better reflected in your body. Your
maximum hit points increase by 1, and gain this additio-
nal increase each time you gain a level in that class.
Once you reach 3rd level, you learn the spell Burning
Hands, which doesn’t count against the number of sorce-
rer spells you know.
You may cast it at first level by spending 2 sorcery points
or by spending the appropriate spell slot for a higher cas-
ting. If casted with sorcery points, the spell’s damage type
can be changed from fire to necrotic.

29
Demonic Summons
6th-level Chosen of the Abyss feature
You gain the ability to summon forth a demonic creature
to torture your opponents.
Spend 3 sorcery points and lose 3 hit points, to call
forth one of three creatures: Hell Hound, Nightmare, or
Bearded Devil. The summoned fiend appears in an unoc-
cupied space within 60 feet of you, acts on your initiative
count, and remains for 1 minute. They use their regular
statblock except hp which is equal to half of your total hit
points.
While summoned it is hostile to all creatures, attacking
any creature it can reach within its movement range.
However as a bonus action, you can inflict 3 slashing
damage to yourself in order to take control of the fiend for
1d4 turns.
At level 14, you can summon up to 2 demonic creatures at
the same time for the same initial cost.
Infernal Transformation
14th-level Chosen of the Abyss feature
The potent demonic energy residing within you can be
called upon to alter your physical form with various demo-
nic traits.
As a bonus action, initiate this transformation and spend
1 sorcery point and sacrifice 1 hit point to gain an infernal
boon from the list below. The transformative effects last
for 10 minutes before the infernal boons fade.
Demonic Your senses become supernaturally sharp,
Percep- akin to those of the denizens of the abyss.
tion: You gain blindsight up to a range of 30
feet.
Fiendish Your flesh toughens, becoming as hard
Resilience: as a demon’s hide. You gain resistance to
either piercing or bludgeoning damage
(your choice at the time of transformation).
Wings of A pair of shadowy, demonic wings sprouts
the Abyss: from your back. You gain a flying speed
equal to your current walking speed.
Demonic The raw physical prowess of your de-
Strength: monic entity manifests within you. You
gain advantage on Strength checks and
your melee attack rolls deal an extra 1d4
damage.
For each transformation you may choose to gain up to
4 boons, paying the required sorcery point and hit point
cost for each, however you can only choose each boon
once during a signal transformation. You may use this
30
ability as many times as you like, only limited by your
available sorcery points.
Abyssal Maelstrom
18th-level Chosen of the Abyss feature
Unleashing your demonic power, you rip open a hole in
the fabric of the plane allowing the chaos of the abyss to
escape.
As an action, spend 5 sorcery points to shroud an area in
a swirling sphere of chaos and demonic energy. The 60 ft.
sphere can be centered on a point you choose within 120
feet and lasts for up to 10 minutes. Once you activate the
sphere, you can’t do so again until you finish a long rest.
While the sphere is active, any creature that enters the
area for the first time on a turn, or starts its turn there,
becomes affected by chaos until the start of its next turn.
While affected, creatures make attack rolls with advan-
tage and subtract a d4 from any saving throws they make.
Warlock - Aberrant Symbiote
You have made a pact with a mysterious, aberrant crea-
ture from an unknown dimension that has traveled into
the Material Plane. This creature needs a host in order to
mature and reproduce so has offered you a pact: provide
unfettered access to grow within your body and your sym-
biotic master will impart their powers unto you.
As the pact is struck and the symbiote enters your body,
the overflow of power causes a permanent mutation to
form which cannot be removed or altered. It’s only now
that you realize you never asked what would happen once
maturation has completed or when the symbiote leaves
your body. It can’t be that bad, right?
Symbiosis Mark
When the symbiote enters the body, the warlock gets a
permanent mark of the symbiosis. Roll on the chart below
or choose from one of the below options. You and your
DM can also choose an alternate permanent mark that
appears.
d6 Symbiosis Mark Hardened Skin
1 Full black eyes. 1st-level Aberrant Symbiote feature
2 Six fingers on one or both hands.
Whenever you are in danger, your patron emits a viscous
3 White-striped hair. membrane that covers your body and grants additional
4 A bioluminescent body. protection to incoming harm. When you aren’t wearing
5 A hole on your chest. armor, your Armor Class equals 10 + your Dexterity mo-
difier + your Charisma modifier.
6 One (or two) black, sturdy tail.

Expanded Spell List Altered Flesh

1st-level Abberant Symbiote feature 1st-level Aberrant Symbiote feature

The Aberrant Symbiote lets you choose from an ex- You gain the Eldritch Impact eldritch invocation and may
panded list of spells when you learn a warlock spell. The alter the damage type from bludgeoning to slashing or
following spells are added to the warlock spell list for you. piercing. This does not count towards the number of
Eldritch Invocations known.

Unnatural Reaction
6th-level Aberrant Symbiote feature

Once per long rest, you may expend your bonus action
to take the Dodge action. You gain an additional use of
this ability at level 10 and 14.

Rapid Regrowth
6th-level Aberrant Symbiote feature

The connection to your symbiote patron now grants a

healing boost and you gain a pool of d6s that you can
spend to fuel your own healing. The number of dice in
the pool equals 1 + your Charisma modifier (minimum of
one die).

As a bonus action, heal yourself by spending any number

of dice from the pool. Roll the dice you spend, add them
together, and restore a number of hit points equal to the
total. You cannot regain more than your hit point maxi-
mum with this ability.

Your pool regains all expended dice when you finish a

long rest.

Clear Mind, Sound Body

Great Symbiote Spells 10th-level Aberrant Symbiote feature

Spell Level Spells Due to your connection with your Patron, your body has
grown stronger and more resilient. You gain resistance to
1st false life, jump
the following conditions: Charmed and Poisoned.
2nd alter self, enlarge/reduce
3rd haste, nondetection At 16th level you instead gain immunity to becoming
Charmed or Poisoned.
4th black tentacles, greater invisibility
5th dominate person, telekinesis

31
Symbiotic Boost
14th-level Aberrant Symbiote feature
The symbiosis between you and your Patron is complete
enough for both of your minds to merge and for a sliver of
their true power to flow to you.
Three times per day you gain the ability to cast one of
your Warlock spells as if it were one level higher if the
option is available and change its damage type to Psychic.
This cannot affect the spell levels of your Mystic Arca-
num. You regain all expended uses at the end of a long
rest.
Eldritch Invocations
Eldritch Impact
Prerequisite: eldritch blast cantrip
When you cast Eldritch Blast, you may replace the ranged
spell attack rolls with melee spell attack rolls, dealing
bludgeoning damage on hit. If you do so, the range of
Eldritch Blast becomes melee.
Aberrant Tendrils
Prerequisite: Pact of Mutation feature
As you merge with your Patron, you are able to grow and
retract organic tendrils. You can grasp things with your
tendrils and they have a reach of 5 feet.
You can use them to do the following simple tasks: lift,
drop, hold, push, or pull an object or a creature; open or
close a door or a container; grapple someone; or make an
unarmed strike.
Your DM might allow other simple tasks to be added to
that list of options. Tendrils work together to complete a
task and they can’t wield weapons or shields or do any-
thing that requires manual precision, such as using tools
or magic items or performing the somatic components of
a spell.
Reactive skin
Prerequisite: Pact of Mutation feature
You can choose one type of damage when you finish a
short or long rest (acid, cold, fire, lightning, poison, or
thunder). You gain resistance to that damage type until
you choose a different one with this feature.
32
Tendril master
Prerequisite: 5th level; Aberrant Tendrils invocation
Your reach with your tendrils increases to 10 feet.
In addition, you can use a bonus action to activate your
tendrils to attempt a grapple check on a medium or smal-
ler creature within range, if it succeeds that creature is
grappled.
Magic Weapon Absorption
Prerequisite: 7th level; Pact of Mutation feature
Your symbiote is able to absorb a magical weapon you are
proficient with in order to add its power to your attacks.
Once per turn when a melee magical weapon is absorbed,
you may use a bonus action to apply the benefits that the
weapon provides to a melee spell attack. (Example: add a
+1 enhancement bonus, added poison damage, or apply a
condition)
Absorbing a weapon takes 1 hour of time and only one
weapon at a time can be absorbed in this manner. If the
weapon normally requires attunement, you may attune
to it while absorbing the weapon. Absorbing another
weapon will immediately expel the current one from your
body.
Pact Boon - Pact of Mutation
The power of your patron flows through you as they begin
to alter your body into a better vessel: bones crack and
reform, muscles twist and reshape as you become
stronger… faster… smarter.
When making a skill check you may roll with advantage a
number of times per day equal to your proficiency bonus.
You regain all expended uses after a long rest.
Upgraded Symbiosis
Prerequisite: 9th level; Pact of Mutation feature
You gain additional temporary supplemental power gran-
ting you heightened senses. You can choose if these extra
powers manifest physically or psychically.
Calling on the power of your patron, choose to gain one of
the following traits with a duration of 1 hour. You may use
this feature a number of times per day equal to your Cha-
risma modifier (minimum of one), regaining all expended
uses on a long rest.
Boons If you and a puppet are more than 50 feet apart, it beco-
mes inert and falls to the ground.
Boon Effect You can only have one puppet animated at a time. If you
Static Attraction Gain a climb speed of 20 ft. attempt to animate a second puppet, the first one imme-
Webbed Gain a swim speed of 20 ft. diately becomes inert.
Appendages
You can animate a puppet a number of times equal to
Heightened Gain blindsight with a range of 30 ft. your Intelligence modifier (minimum 1). You regain all
senses expended uses when you finish a long rest.

Wizard - Puppeteer
Puppet
The Puppeteer is a unique branch of wizardry that brings Small construct, unaligned
the art of illusion to life – literally. Embracing the an-
cient traditions of marionette and puppet crafting, these Armor Class 10
wizards don’t simply manipulate energy or weave spells, Hit Points 13 (3d8)
but rather they control physical constructs of their own Speed 2 Puppet
creation.
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
Whether with the delicately crafted figures of wood and
14 (+2) 10 (+0) 10 (+0) 1 (-5) 1 (-5) 1 (-5)
cloth, or with the equally cold and unfeeling bodies of
the fallen, these wizards command their creations with
uncanny precision. In both the heat of battle and in the
Damage Immunities Poison, Psychic
intricacies of social discourse, the puppeteer pulls the
Condition Immunities Blinded, Charmed, Deafened,
strings, guiding their creations as extensions of their will.
Exhaustion, Frightened, Paralyzed, Petrified, Poi-
This complex art form combines elements of necroman-
soned
cy, enchantment, and artifice, creating a truly unique path
Senses Blindsight 60 ft. if autonomous, Passive
for those wizards who choose it.
Perception 5
Challenge 1/4 (50 XP)
Arcane Artisan Antimagic Vulnerability. The puppet becomes in-
1st-level Puppeteer feature
capacitated while in the area of an antimagic field. If
targeted by dispel magic, the puppet must succeed on
You gain proficiency with Artisan’s Tools. While using
a Constitution saving throw against the spell save DC
those tools, you may spend 1 hour and 2 gp worth of
or fall unconscious for 1 minute.
materials to construct a wooden and cloth puppet of small
size.
Actions
Slam. Melee Weapon Attack: +2 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
Puller of Strings one target. Hit: 6 (1d8 + 2) bludgeoning damage.5 ft.
2nd-level Puppeteer feature

You learn how the flow of arcane power to manifest a

sliver of unlife into one of your crafted puppets, complete
with invisible and unbreakable magical strings you use to
manipulate it.
As an action, animate a puppet you created which mate-
rializes in an unoccupied space within 5 feet of you. It has
magic strings that reach up to 50 ft. away and uses the
Puppet stat block below. You may control your puppet’s
movements as a free action, and with a bonus action may
command your puppet to make one slam attack.
Necrotic Marionette
6th-level Puppeteer feature
You gain the ability to turn a corpse into a puppet and
enhance your puppet’s durability.
By expending one level 1 spell slot, you can animate a
humanoid corpse that died within the last 24 hours. The
corpse is animated for 10 minutes, taking on the appea-
rance of being alive but is unable to speak. It has the
same statistics as your crafted puppet and is controlled in
the same way.

33
Your puppets now use the following statblock: Puppet Mastery
10th-level Puppeteer feature

Enhanced Puppet Your skill with puppet creation has improved both your
Small construct, unaligned connection with your puppets and their overall usability.
You gain the following abilities while a puppet has been
Armor Class 11 animated:
Hit Points 22 (5d8)
Speed 25 ft. Your range with your puppets increases to 75 ft.
When taking damage, you can use your reaction to make
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA your puppet take half of that damage, round down.
You can use an action to make your puppet make an
16 (+3) 12 (+1) 10 (+0) 1 (-5) 1 (-5) 1 (-5)
ability check as if it was you.

Damage Resistances Bludgeoning, Piercing and

Slashing damage from nonmagical attacks
Supreme Puppeteer
14th-level Puppeteer feature
Damage Immunities Poison, Psychic
Condition Immunities Blinded, Charmed, Deafened,
The strings of magic which connect you to
Exhaustion, Frightened, Paralyzed, Petrified, Poi-
your puppets thrum with arcane power as your
soned
control expands. When you animate a puppet,
Senses Blindsight 60 ft. if autonomous, Passive Per-
you may now animate up to 2 puppets at a
ception 5
time and the range at which you can control
Challenge 1/2 (100 XP)
your puppet increases to 100 feet.
Antimagic Vulnerability. The puppet becomes
Additionally, one of your puppets be-
incapacitated while in the area of an antimagic
comes autonomous. An autonomous
field. If targeted by dispel magic, the puppet must
puppet operates independently of you,
succeed on a Constitution saving throw against
treated as a companion NPC with its
the spell save DC or fall unconscious for 1 mi-
own initiative, actions, and move-
nute.
ment. It understands your spoken
commands but can’t speak itself,
Actions
following your directions as well as
Slam. Melee Weapon Attack: +3 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
it can.
one target. Hit: 11 (2d8 + 3) bludgeoning damage.

34
Magic Items
Magic items play a crucial role in any magic-fueled world.
From an innocuous bag of beans to a powerful flaming
sword, these items can provide powerful benefits to the
characters who wield them. They can make adventuring
easier; offer unique solutions to situations that characters
may need to overcome; provide characters with new and
unique abilities or enhance their existing skills; or even
grant an edge in combat.
Behind all of the mechanic benefits, magic items also
serve as symbols of achievement and opportunities for
growth. This can be a tangible recognition of the player’s
skill, bravery, and determination at the culmination of a
hard-fought battle, a treacherous journey, or a complex
puzzle. A magic item can also distinguish characters as
unique within the world and often serve as the key to
unlocking new development.
To this end, magic items are often an essential aspect of
the 5e game system and it is important for Dungeon Mas-
ters to take care when handing out magic items. It is es-
sential to consider the balance of power within the party,
the players’ level of experience and the overall narrative
of the game. Magic items should be distributed carefully,
so as not to disrupt the delicate balance of power, but at
the same time, they should also be made accessible to
players so that they can fully realize the potential of their
characters.
Here is a table showing the recommended distribution of
magic items based on player level in the 5th edition:
Player Level Rarity of Magic Items
1-4 Uncommon
5-10 Rare
11-16 Very Rare
17-20 Legendary
Note: This table is just a general guideline and the
Dungeon Master is free to adjust the distribution of
magic items to fit the needs of their campaign. The
distribution of magic items can also depend on the
playstyle of the players and the difficulty of the encoun-
ters. A campaign that focuses on combat may require
more combat-oriented magic items to help the players
overcome challenges, while a campaign that focuses
on role-playing and investigation may require more
skill-based magic items.
35
For the magic weapons and armor you’ll find on the
following pages, we’ve listed the weapon and armor type
with the (any) trait. A Barbarian specializing in heavy
weapons finding a Rapier of Resentment can be disap-
pointing. We want DMs to have the flexibility to custo-
mize items to fit the needs of the party and enhance the
adventures played out at your table.
Uncommon
Lich Coin
Wondrous item, uncommon
The Lich Coin is a small, silver coin imbued with power-
ful necrotic magic. It is said to have been created by a
powerful lich, using a fragment of its own soul as the
source of its power. When used, the coin allows the wiel-
der to challenge a willing creature to a game of chance,
asking them to choose between «tails» or «heads».
If the target creature wins, they get to choose one of their
characteristics and gain a +2 bonus to that characteris-
tic, while the wielder of the coin suffers a -2 penalty to
the same characteristic. If the target creature loses, they
suffer a -2 penalty to the chosen characteristic, while the
wielder of the coin gains a +2 bonus.
The effect of the coin remains until your next long rest.
The coin can be used once per long rest.
Description: The lich coin is a silver piece imbued with
dark magic. The front of the coin holds a detailed skull
believed to be a representation of a lich and the tarnish
surrounding the engraving makes it stand out against the
gleaming silver background. The reverse of the coin is
embossed with a series of complex, arcane symbols that
glow with an eerie light.
Yummsh Cooking Pot
Wondrous item, uncommon
When food or drink is consumed from the cauldron,
it grants one extra Hit Die to all those who ate from it
before taking a short rest. This allows them to regain ad-
ditional hit points when they take a short rest. However,
the pot can only grant this extra Hit Dice once per day.
Description: This large and sturdy cauldron is a
favorite among orcs shamans for its quick
and even heating capabilities, making
it a perfect tool for cooking their
meals. The cauldron is made
of thick iron and has an en-
chantment that enhances its
heating abilities, allowing for
perfectly cooked food every
time.
Anger’s Grasp
(any weapon with the
reach property), uncom-
mon (requires attunement)
This magic weapon grants a
+1 bonus to both attack rolls
and damage dealt. Additionally attacks with this weapon
score a critical hit on a roll of 18 through 20. Whenever
you are rolling with advantage, if either dice result is a na-
tural 1 then Anger’s Grasp lashes out at another random
creature within range, including the wielder, using the
same advantage and damage roll.
Description: Don’t let the simple exterior of this weapon
fool you, the true potential of Anger’s Grasp is revealed
once attuned. A boundless knot of rage grows in the
wielder before flowing into the weapon giving
it a menacing and commanding silhouette.
A coveted instrument for those seeking
to unleash their inner fury upon their
enemies, your rage is focused into a
single, devastating point, but the
power of anger can have draw-
backs when you lash out…
36
Ring of Shrieking
Wondrous item, uncommon
Whenever a spell requiring a Wisdom saving throw is
cast within 30 ft. of the wearer, a spectre is released
from the ring with a loud shriek before disappearing.
Each time the spectre shrieks, the user takes 1d6 points
of psychic damage. This shriek also grants advantage
on Wisdom saving throws to resist spells for 1 minute to
any ally who can hear it. This benefit can be applied to
an ally once per short rest.
Description: This iron ring is set with a pale sapphire
encircled by shards and always feels cold to the touch.
It’s rumored that a powerful sorceress imprisoned the
essence of a warring general within the ring in order to
gain advantage in battle. Whether rumour, myth or fact,
the exact creation story has been lost.
Sword of Resentment
Sword (any), uncommon (requires attunement)
When you roll initiative, the Sword of Resentment pulls
you into a state of desperation to defeat your enemies.
You are unable to resist colourfully insulting the ene-
mies you successfully attack with the sword this combat,
dealing an extra 1d6 psychic damage.
This desperation leaves you vulnerable to retaliation for
the next minute and you take an extra 1d4 damage from
the first successful weapon attack against you.
Description: Imbued with dark magic, harsh lines and
jagged blade of the Sword of Resentment is favored by
those who seek revenge against their enemies. Granting
the ability to channel the resentment and bitterness of its
user, when wielded, a dark aura crawls enshrouds the
blade and saps the clarity from its weilder. In exchange
for further strength, the user is forced into a state of
desperation, goading enemies into fighting them.
Shadow Stride Boots
Wondrous item, uncommon The Robe of the Dark One
Wondrous item, uncommon
Once per day while you wear these boots and are in dim
light or darkness, you can teleport up to 60 feet to an Once per day, The Robe of the Dark One allows the
unoccupied space you can see that is also in dim light or wearer to cast the spell Disguise Self with the alterations
darkness as a bonus action. lasting for a number of hours equal to half the
wearer’s level, with a minimum of one
Description: These soft leather hour, or until they choose to end it.
boots are imperceptebly In order to discern your disguise
tooled with images of a creature must make a DC 15
low-lying smoke or fog. Intelligence (Investigation)
When partially obs- check.
cured by shadow, you Additionally, while in dim
feel as if the boots light, the wearer becomes
are itching to stride difficult to see, imposing
to other nearby disadvantage on Perception
areas shrouded in checks made to see them.
darkness.
Description: Made of red
and black shimmering silk,
Liar’s Pendant the Robe of the Dark One
Wondrous item, uncommon shifts and moves on its own as
it tries to blend into any surrounding
Once per day you may use the magic of the Liar’s Pen- darkness. Created by a
dant to target a creature you see within 60 ft. who wizard obsessed with the powers of shadow
can speak to make a DC 14 Wisdom saving magic, the wearer is able to slip past watchful eyes,
throw. either fading into shadow or looking like someone
During combat, if the target crea- else entirely.
ture fails the throw, they lose the
ability to cast any spell with a
verbal component until the Rare
end of their next turn as
they babble blatant lies. Commander’s Crown
While outside of combat, Wondrous item, rare (requires attunement)
the targeted creature is
only able to speak blatant Whenever a willing ally within 20 ft. of the
lies for 10 minutes if they wearer fails an Intelligence or Charisma sa-
fail their save. ving roll, you may use your reaction to allow
this creature a reroll on that save, but they
The magic of the pendant must take the new result.
wears off after a day, al-
lowing the wearer to remember Description: The Commander’s Crown is a symbol of
that they were targeted to speak supreme authority and sovereignty that enhances the
untruths. If the targeted creature suc- wearer’s leadership abilities. Crafted from the finest
cessfully saves, they are not affected but are unaware gold and embedded with gems and authoritative sigils, it
they’ve been targeted. exudes a magnificent aura that is both regal and awe-ins-
piring. The commanding presence of the crown imbues
Description: Often used by those seeking to sow confu- its wearer with a sense of confidence and
sion or mislead others, this demon eye-shaped pendant power, making it an indis-
is favored by politicians, con artists, and anyone who pensable accessory for
needs to manipulate others for their own gain. Crafted by those who seek to
a cadre of powerful wizards who saw immense value in lead with majesty
controlling the truth, the magic within twists the tongue and strength.
of a target into speaking blatant lies.

37
General’s Brooch
Wondrous item, rare (requires attunement)
When worn, the General’s Brooch enhances
the wearer’s charisma, granting a +2 bonus
to their Charisma score. It also increases
their maximum hit points by 10, ma-
king them more resilient in combat.
Description: An emblem of supe-
riority and influence, the General’s
Brooch has been crafted from shining
copper into the shape of a dragon’s
head. Coveted by adventurer and leader
alike, the imbued magics allow it to glow
faintly, exuding a commanding presence that
draws the gaze of all who behold it. This brooch is
truly a statement piece for anyone seeking to assert their
dominance and control while in a position of power.
Umbral Dagger
Dagger, rare (requires attunement)
You gain a +1 bonus to attack and damage
rolls made with this magic weapon.
Three times per day, your weapon can
become invisible for one round and you can
roll your attacks with advantage against
any creature that doesn’t have truesight or
blindsight.
Description: The favorite implement of
a kobold assassin that targeted well-pro-
tected politicians, the Umbral Dagger is
enchanted with the power of shadow it is
said to be able to slice through the fabric of
reality itself and bend the light to its will. A
sinister weapon forged with a curved, black
blade and its sleek, deadly design makes it
a perfect tool for quick, silent kills.
Shroud of the Masochist
Medium armor (any), rare (requires attunement)
While donning this armor, the wearer gains resistance
to fire damage. Additionally, the wearer may cast the
Fireball spell once per day with a maximum range of 15
ft., catching themselves in the resulting blast.
Description: The Shroud of the Masochist is a singu-
lar, perilous piece of armor that will indelibly mark its
wearer. Fabricated by a sorcerer made delirious by the
energies of agony and misery, the armor is made of a
heavily scuffed dark red material and is possessed by
38
the spirit of the fiend that had
previously beset the sorcerer.
This fiend constantly whispers
to the wearer,
urging them to act in a
self-destructive manner
to attain their goals. A de-
sirable acquisition for anyone
wishing to further exercise their sinister
abilities, its ominous visage that will surely
unsettle all who perceive it.
Draining Axe
Axe (any), rare (requires attunement)
This magic weapon grants a +1 bonus to attack
and damage rolls.
On successful attacks, the axe will consume the life force
of its victims, dealing an extra 1d6 necrotic damage with
each attack sharing its spoils with its weilder. Whenever
you deal necrotic damage, you siphon life from the enemy
and gain temporary Hit Points equal to the
necrotic damage dealt, up to a maximum
of 10. These temporary hit points last for
one hour.
Each time the Draining Axe is weilded,
its hunger must be sated, dealing 1d6
necrotic damage when you take this
weapon in hand. It will not damage you
again for the next ten minutes, even if the
axe is stowed and re-equipped.
Description: The craggy blade of the
Draining Axe is a formidable weapon that is
imbued with the power of a revenant and is
sure to strike fear into the hearts of its enemies. The axe
is said to have been created by a powerful necromancer
who was seeking to harness the power of the undead, and
it has since become a sought-after weapon for those who
seek to control the forces of death. The Draining Axe is a
dangerous tool that is best meant in the hands someone
who wants to consume using the power of necromancy.
Spicy Chicken Feather
Wondrous item, rare
When the wielder receives damage that
would reduce them to 0 hit points, they
must make a DC 15 Wisdom saving
throw. On a success, the wielder drops
to 1 hit point instead and every creature
within 5 ft. is dealt 10 (3d6) fire damage.
The Spicy Chicken Feather can’t be used
again until the next dawn.
Description: The Spicy Chicken Feather is bright red
and seems to be constantly on fire yet never burns away.
Created by a powerful, and hungry, druid who was stu-
dying the regenerative power of this legendary bird, after
many attempts, they finally captured the essence of the
phoenix in this feather. The Spicy Chicken Feather has
a radiant appearance, with its golden shaft and fiery red
plume, making it a must-have for those who seek to put
their life at stake.
Cosmic Scepter Cap
Weapon (any rod, scepter, staff or wand), rare (requires
attunement by a sorcerer, wizard, or warlock)
The Cosmic Scepter Cap grants a +2 bonus to attack and
against spell saves and holds up to three charges.
Using a Bonus action, the wielder can spend a
charge to teleport up to 20 feet away from
their current position. Additional charges
are recouped by defeating fiends, devils
or aberrations.
Additionally, whenever the wielder cast
a spell a glorious chorus of trumpets
can be heard by all within 300 ft.
Description: The Cosmic Scepter
Cap is an beautiful, ornate headpie-
ce that pulses with the divine power
of the heavens and can be affixed
to weapons such as rods, scepters,
staves or wands. Constructed of
shimmering gold and encrusted
with diamonds and other precious
stones the scepter cap is actually
quite light when held, feeling warm to the touch as it
pulses with holy energy. Historical records reveal that
an eons old celestia first granted it to a wizard who was
seeking to harness the power of the stars, and its passage
through time has marked it as a symbol of authority and
power.
Coil of the Immemorial
Wondrous item, rare (requires attunement)
While worn, a deep-set cold takes to
your body as a rigidity similar to rigor
mortis grants you a +1 bonus to
your armor class and allows you to
expend 2 hit dice in order to reroll a
spell saving throw with advantage.
While attuned, you are considered
an undead in addition to your regular
types for the purposes of determining
effects of certain abilities or spells (such
as Divine Smite or Turn Undead).
39
Description: The Coil of the Immemorial is a finely
knapped ring set with opaque dark green stones, but
upon closer inspection, one can see intricate engravings
glowing from within. Crafted from the phylactery of a
lich, the runes within maintain their potency thanks to
the spells of a fiendish necromancer and the souls of the
recently departed.
Very Rare
Skull Crusher
Hammer (any), very rare (requires
attunement)
You gain a +2 bonus to attack and
damage rolls made with the Skull
Crusher. When you hit a living
creature with a CR of 1 or less that
has a skull, its head explodes and it
is slain immediately.
Description: The Skull Crusher is a
brutal hammer forged with the crushing
power to shatter even the toughest of de-
fenses. Crafted by a fierce blacksmith seeking to
create the ultimate weapon of destruction, the haft
has been adorned with dwarven engravings calling
for victory in battle whereas the head has been forged for
maximum impact, lending it a menacing appearance. The
Skull Crusher is a sought-after tool for those who revel
in the thrill of battle and the spray of their foes’ lifeblood.
This weapon is a true testament to raw power and is sure
to leave a lasting impact on anyone who wields it.
Night Hag’s Peste
Wondrous item, very rare (requires attunement)
While wearing the Night Hag’s Peste, you may use a
bonus action to expend one charge to teleport to any area
of dim light or darkness within 30 ft. before retur-
ning to your original spot at the end of your
turn. After teleporting, the first attack
you make is done with advantage.
The mask holds up to 3 charges
and regains all its charges
daily at dawn.

Description: An eerie piece of arcane equipment, the
Night Hag’s Peste obscures the face with an elongated
beak leaving only the eyes exposed. Ripped from the
haunting nightmares caused by Night Hags, the peste
was thus crafted by a powerful sorceress who wished to
torment and manipulate her enemies from the shadows.
A perfect addition for those needing to strike the fear of
darkness into their foes, the intimidating Night Hag’s
Peste is truly a unique artifact, capable of changing the
tide of any battle.
Serpent Fiend’s Phalanx
Wand, very rare (requires attunement by a spellcaster)
While attuned, you gain a +2 bonus to spell attack rolls
and your spell save DC.
Additionally, whenever you are damaged by a spell cast
from an enemy, you may use your Reaction to cast a
cantrip at the creature that damaged you. This spell must
be able to target a single creature so area of effect spells
cannot be cast in this manner even if their area could be
placed to only affect the targeted creature.
Description: The Wand of Slithering is
a magical instrument that is imbued
with the power of serpentine fiendish
magic. Its design is serpentine, with a
long, twisting shaft and a serpentine
head that is adorned with glittering
gemstones. The Wand of Slithering is
said to have been crafted by a cunning
enchanter who was seeking to harness
the power of the serpent, and it has
since become a sought-after tool for
those who seek to control the power of
the elements. The Wand of Slithering is
a truly dangerous weapon, capable of un-
leashing devastating spells on its enemies.
Vampire Helmet
Wondrous item, very rare (requires attunement)
While attuned, you can expend 2 hit dice to add the 3d6
additional necrotic damage to any successful attack and
regain hit points equal to half of the additional damage.
Description: Despite its name, the
Vampire Sunbonnet is truly a
fearsome piece of armor
imbued with the power of
the undead and said to
have been crafted by
a primeval vampire
40
lord who was seeking to create the ultimate symbol of his
power. Once worn, this dark and foreboding sunbonnet
uses the blood of its wearer as the source of its power.
A true item of evil, the Vampire Sunbonnet is capable of
intimidating even the bravest of warriors.
Bracelet of the Grave
Wondrous item, very rare (requires attu-
nement)
Once attuned to the bracelet, you
gain the following benefits: You
have resistance to cold and poison
damage. Whenever you receive
cold damage, you may cast the
chill touch cantrip as a bonus action
on your next turn. You are considered
an undead in addition to your creature
type. Your eyes glow with a shining blue
light.
Description: Discovered by a powerful wizard who was
exploring the shadows of the world beyond, the Bracelet
of the Grave is a mysterious relic that has suffused the
power of the afterlife within its twisted metal coils. The
cold, otherworldly glow emanating from this bracelet is
sure to attract the attention of those seeking the power
and secrets of death itself.
Sunless Tangle
Bow (any), very rare (requires attunement)
You gain a +2 bonus to attack and damage rolls made
with this magic weapon.
This bow has 8 charges, regaining 1d8 charges daily at
dawn. Whenever you successfully attack a creature using
the bow, you may expend up to three charges to cast one
of the following spells:
1 Charge: Entangle, only affecting the target.
2 Charges: Spike Growth, centered on the target.
3 Charges: Plant Growth, centered on the target.
Description: Seeking to master the power
of nature’s innumerable thorns, the
formidable bow Sunless Tangle,
was created by a drow ranger with
bramblewood found in the depths
of an ancient forest. Adorned
with shadows and other mys-
terious symbols, its sleek and
deadly appearance is sure to
intimidate anyone who faces
it.
Dawn Stone
Wondrous item, very rare (requires attunement)
At the end of each long rest choose strength,
dexterity, or constitution. That score in-
creases by 2, to a maximum of 20 until
you finish your next long rest.
Additionally, whenever you score a
critical hit, you may choose to inflict
an extra 2d6 radiant damage. If you
do, the next attack roll made against
you has advantage.
Description: Radiating with the
power of the Sun itself, the Dawn
Stone was created by a mighty sor-
cerer who dared to harness a sliver of
immense celestial fire. The stone shimmers
with a golden hue and when attuned, evolves to
radiate a warm aura bringing forth a sense of hope and
inspiration to all who behold it. A treasure of great worth,
the Dawn Stone is coveted by any who seek to conquer
the darkness.
Blood Orb
Wondrous item, very rare (requires attunement)
The Blood Orb has 3 charges and regains all
expended charges daily at dawn. When
an ally within 10 ft. deals more than
10 damage to a living creature
from a single weapon attack,
you may expend one charge
and use your Reaction
to immediately make a
weapon attack against
a creature.
Description: Dabble
deep enough into
sanguimancy and
you’ll find tales of the
sinister Blood Orb.
This unholy creation
fuses the blood of de-
vils within its spherical
walls and uses their fell
magics to inflict further
harm. The fluid trapped
within churns over itself even
when the orb is motionless so it
is sure to draw the attention of anyone
who comes near it.
41
Legendary Items
Corrupted Genesis
Wondrous item, legendary (requires attune-
ment by a bard, cleric, or druid)
This sceptre grants +3 bonus to attack and
damage rolls made with it, and can be
weilded as a magic mace.
While holding the rod, you can use an
action to cause plants to awaken and grow,
spreading in a 30-foot radius centered on
you, and the area moves with you. When
other creatures move into or within
the area, they take 1d10 poison
damage for every 5 feet they travel.
The plants remain for 10 minutes
and the area becomes difficult ter-
rain for the duration.
Description: When Corrupted Genesis
originally sprouted atop a magic leyline
so none could imagine that its ancient
form would become tainted into the
twisted black wood of its current appea-
rance. Profane magics turned healthy
bark into a gnarled and knotted mess,
perfect for the powerful sorceress who
carved it from the trunk. Now covered in
runes and symbols that further enhance
and release its dark magic, the sceptre has
the power to manipulate the minds of those
around it.
Grasp of the Hag
Staff, legendary (requires attunement
by a sorcerer, warlock or wizard)
The staff has 20 charges and regains 2d8 + 4 expended
charges daily at dawn. When you expend the last charge,
roll a d20, and on a 1, the staff is destroyed, releasing the
heartstone within and a CR 5 Night Hag appears within
15 ft. of the wielder for one minute. It is hostile to any
creature in sight.
Spellcasting. While holding the staff, you may use an
Action to expend one or more of its charges to cast the
following spells, using your spell save DC:
1 charge: Hellish Rebuke
2 charges: Levitate
5 charges: Fireball (at 5th level), Lightning Bolt (at
5th level), Wall of Fire
Summon Nightmare. As an action, expend 5 charges
and you call a nightmare, friendly to you and your com-
panions, that appears within 15 ft. of you. In combat, the
creature shares your initiative count, but it takes its turn
immediately after yours. It obeys your verbal commands
(no action required by you).
Description: The Grasp of the Hag is an artifact oozing
with chaotic magic. Made from a strange,
black, leathery material it feels like cold
metal once in hand but upon closer ins-
pection, the strangeness of the material
reveals it to be the petrified flesh of
a Night Hag. The flesh and metal
of the staff are covered in intricate
fiendish symbols and runes that
convert the power within into
devastating magic. With its wild and
unpredictable nature, this staff is a force
to be reckoned with, and is sure to leave
its mark on the world.
The Shadowmaster’s Helm
Wondrous item, legendary (requires attunement)
You gain a +1 bonus to AC, saving throws and intimida-
tion as long as you are attuned to this mask.
Additionally, while attuned and wearing the mask it
breathes life into your shadow. As long as your shadow is
with you, and a creature has targeted you with an attack,
roll a d20. If the result is an 11 or higher, the attack
instead targets your shadow which then vanishes. Your
shadow returns to you at midnight after which this ability
can be used again.
Description: Not just for lending an air of mystery, the
sinister metal design of the Shadowmaster’s Bauta is
sure to intimidate anyone who sees it. The penultimate
creation of a shadow mage, it is said that the shadow of
42
those that wore it would come to life could rebel and kill
the user of the mask if they keep this item for too long.
Claws of the Mad Berzerker
Wondrous item, legendary (requires attunement)
Upon attunement, the claws bind to your body and cannot
be removed without the use of curse removal, at which
point they will fall to the ground.
As a bonus action, you can cause the claws on the
gauntlets to sink deeper into your flesh, augmen-
ting your attacks as your attacks become magical
and you gain a +2 bonus to the attack and damage
rolls you make with unarmed strikes. This power
is not without consequence however, as
while the claws are situated, you
consecutively lose 1 hp for
every round the bonus is
activated. (For example, in
round one you lose 1 hp,
and by round four you lose
4 hp).
Whenever your hp is below
50% of your maximum, you
add 2d6 slashing damage to
your unarmed strikes and
natural weapons.
Description: Created by a tribe of warriors as part of a
ritual to harness the rage of their ancestors, the Shards of
the Mad Berserker have since been attached one by one
to a pair of gauntlets. These shards are an amalgamation
of the most sinister, deadly and effective natural weapons:
horns, barbs, teeth, and claws. The metal bezels that hold
them in place are forged from old metal, and myths tell
that they are the weapons of fallen clan members now
carved with symbols of their triumphs.
Strigoi’s Thirst
Sword (any), legendary (requires attunement)
You gain a +3 bonus to attack and damage rolls made
with this magic weapon.
When attacking a creature with this weapon and you roll
a 20 on the attack, or when you reduce another crea-
ture to 0 hp, a swarm of bats appear within 15 ft. of you.
The swarm is friendly to you and your companions and
remains for 10 minutes or if they are dismissed sooner by
you using a bonus action.
While summoned, the swarm acts on your initiative, and
obey any verbal commands that you issue to them (no
action required by you). If you don’t issue any commands
to them, they defend themselves from hostile creatures,
but otherwise take no actions.
You can’t have more than 2 swarms under your control
at the same time, so if an effect triggers to create a new
swarm of bats, it immediately dismisses the oldest swarm
of bats under your command.

Description: Easily recognized, the adamantine blade

known as Strigoi’s Thirst is a fearsome weapon torn from
the bleeding bowels of history. Designed to slice through
the hearts of its enemies, the blade’s creator sacrificed
many souls in order to harness the dark power of the
night and become the most powerful vampire lord. Its
crowning ability occurs on particularly vicious attacks as
it summons the twisted aspects of the souls it consumed
when it was forged.

Armor of the Corrupted Paladin

Heavy armor (any), legendary (requires attunement)

You gain +1 to your AC when you wear this armor.

The armor has 6 charges and regains 1d6 expended

charges daily at dawn. Whenever you kill a celestial, a cle-
ric or a paladin, the armor regains 1 expended charge. As
a Bonus action, you may expend one or more charges to:

Cast Bane (1 charge)

Cast Hellish Rebuke (2 charges)
Cast Branding Smite (3 charges)

These spells use your save DC and spell save values,

otherwise they have +5 to hit and a DC 13 spell save.

Description: Once worn by a steadfast guardian of faith,

the history of the Armor of the Corrupted Paladin tells
a tale of just how far one can fall. Seduced from their
stalwart path by the succubus queen, the paladin surren-
dered their oath and was in turn struck down by their
god. While they perished, their armor was forever altered
from its bright hues to better represent the unforgivable
descent into corruption so is sure to intimidate or repulse
any who see it.

43
 Defending the Lair
Base defense is a new style of combat for players, al-
lowing them to take the driver’s seat in battling against
attacking heroes determined to raid their organization
or lair. Players are now in charge of setting up their base
defense following the rules below: positioning traps and
defending monsters like the masterminds they are! Once
ready, it’s time for combat which follows the usual 5E
combat rules.
Defense of the base is required given the myriad reasons
for enemies to strike at the player’s heart of operations.
These include, but aren’t limited to magic item or re-
source retrieval, destroying a facility, clout or even to res-
cue a captive! Make sure to check out the optional rules at
the end for how to set up different attacker objectives.
Setup Phase
The setup phase consists of four parts, three for players
(Installing Traps, Placing Artefacts and Choosing Defen-
ders) and one for the DM (Choosing Attackers & En-
trance).
44
Installed Traps
Nefarious traps are sure to put attackers in a bind, but
beware! Some traps could be triggered by defenders too.
Each room may have a maximum of one trap placed, with
some exceptions. Basic Traps are CR 1/2 and Advanced
Traps are CR 1.
To keep the location of traps hidden from the DM, we
suggest one of these methods for players, or have them
devise their own:
For each trap, place multiple tokens, with one being
the actual marked trap. (One in a lounge and another in a
lab, but the lab is the trapped room)
Write down the location of the trap/trigger on a folded/
facedown piece of paper. When the trap is triggered,
reveal the paper.
Placing Artefacts
Artefacts are powerful items that when placed in rooms
will lend their effects to the area. Any attacker or defender
can be affected by an Artefact unless specified otherwise,
so take care of where they are placed. Each room may
have a maximum of one CR 1 artefact placed.
Choosing Defenders Defender Control
Defenders are the henchmen and monsters that reside Defenders stay in their assigned guard positions until
within their lair. Defenders can be placed in any room/ they encounter the attacking heroes, so carefully consider
section but they can only be placed with creatures belon- where your defenders are located! Once encountered,
ging to the same defender type (Aberrations, Humanoids, players may then choose their defenders to control.
etc.) to avoid infighting.
The Shadow Owl Ring earned at the end of story chap-
Depending on the difficulty of play, players should choose ter one, or awarded via another method, can be used by
7-10 defenders with a cumulative CR value matching that players here to control defenders:
tier. See the table below for our suggested tiers and their
corresponding range of CR values. Shadow Owl Ring
Ring, Artifact
Defender Artefact Total Total
CR and Trap Defense Attacker This ring allows you to
CR CR CR control a shadow owl in
Tier 1 the players’ lair cult base.
8 to 12 0.5 to 3 8.5 to 15 8 to 10
This bird cannot fly more
Tier 2 12 to 18 3 to 7 15 to 25 10 to 12 than 100 feet away from
Tier 3 18 to 20 7 to 9 25 to 29 12 to 13 the heart of the base. At the
discretion of the DM, when an
enemy enters the base, the sha-
Choosing Attackers & Entrance dow owl activates with an initiative
of 25 and your character sees through its
The DM now chooses the attacking team and determines eyes and takes control of it.
the entrance (door/window) they will use to enter the
base from. The attacking team progresses through the Each round you can move the shadow owl up to 40 feet
dungeon from this entrance, triggering traps and battling and use its action to land on the shoulder of a willing
defenders along the way. creature. You then take control of this creature who im-
mediately takes its turn (action, move, bonus).
When choosing attackers, determine the tier of play to get
the total attacker CR. This CR value is split amongst the A shadow owl can’t land on a creature that already has a
chosen 3-4 attacking heroes and any blessings applied to shadow owl on its shoulder. A creature that has already
them. Generally, Heroes will have no more than 2 bles- acted this round cannot be made to act again using this
sings applied to them until you get to higher tiers/levels of feature.
play.
Combat Phase
Infiltration Phase
Whenever the attacking team meets a defender, roll for
During this phase, the DM will control the attackers, initiative to determine turn order for all attackers and
moving them throughout the dungeon from their entrance defenders.
point, meanwhile the players can control the defenders,
moving them throughout the base to intercept the attac- Once combat has been initiated, each player chooses one
kers. defender in the base to control for each round using the
Shadow Owl Ring. If selecting a defender that is part of
Attacker Control immediate combat, they may use its actions and abilities
against the attackers. Players can also choose a defender
The DM should move the attackers as a group throughout not currently in combat.
the lair, checking rooms and hallways as adventurers At the end of each round, a player may choose to control
would do until they trigger a trap, or encounter defen- a different defender for the next round.
ders. Movement as a group will speed up overall play, as
”splitting the party” can alter the balance and difficulty of Strategy and planning are key here as players can use
combat, or delay it. a round to battle against the attackers, bring a far away
defender closer to battle, or reposition defenders.

45
Any defenders not controlled by the players are controlled
by the DM. Those not in battle will not automatically res-
pond to sounds of combat. Instead they may stay where
they are stationed, move throughout the base or even to
an adjacent room if doors are open.
Winning
The base defense ends when the defending team blocks
the attackers from reaching the secret entrance to the
heart of the lair or stops them from accomplishing ano-
ther objective. The defenders win when the attackers are
neutralized or forced to flee.
Forced to Flee
If at any time the situation becomes too desperate for the
attacking heroes, they may be forced to flee. More deter-
mined attackers may refuse to flee, while those wanting
to fight for another day are more apt to. This situation can
occur if the leader of the attackers, or a significant portion
of the attackers, have been killed or incapacitated.
Alternative Objectives
Reaching the entrance to the heart of the lair isn’t the
only method that can be available in this style of play.
Here are other objectives that the defenders may need to
thwart!
Retrieve a Valuable Item: The attacking heroes must
locate and retrieve a specific item hidden within the lair,
such as a magical artifact or a powerful weapon… But the
party doesn’t know which one! If the item is not located
in a dedicated storage room, DMs can place tokens for
possible locations throughout the lair, and then have the
players set up defense, only revealing the location once
the setup phase is complete.
Captive Rescue: The attacking heroes must find and res-
cue prisoner(s) being held captive within the lair, such as
an ally or an important NPC. During the setup phase only
50% of the defenders are available to the party to defend
the base, with the other 50% to arrive when the captive(s)
are being freed and alarm raised.
Destroy a Key Facility: The attacking heroes must locate
and destroy a crucial facility within the lair, such as a
laboratory or forge, which is essential to the players’
operations. Successful destruction to the facility could
take place over a number of rounds or after a set number
of points of damage is taken. Defenders should battle the
attackers to slow their progress or block further damage
to the facility, such as by putting out fires.
46
Defeat a Boss: The attacking heroes must locate and
defeat a specific enemy, such as a villainous leader or a
monstrous lieutenant.The players could choose a hi-
gher level defender along with a number of defending
henchmen to help protect the boss.
Gather Rare Resources: The attacking heroes must
locate and gather rare resources stashed within the lair.
Have the players place a set number of resources in
different rooms of the lair, if the attacking heroes gather a
majority, they win and the resources are lost..
Adjusting the Difficulty
In order to balance encounters, we’ve measured the dif-
ficulty based on each component of the battle (Attackers,
Defenders, Traps, Artefacts, and Blessings) in terms of
Challenge Rating (CR).
• Attackers are classified as either standard (CR 2)
or advanced (CR 3), and also have access to gifted
abilities called Blessings that result in a boost to
CR of ½.
• Defenders are classified by clan and have
challenge ratings ranging from CR ½ to 3.
• Traps have two ratings: a standard trap is CR ½,
while advanced versions are CR 1.
• All Artefacts are CR 1.
In order to keep combats running smoothly we suggest
for the chosen total number of defending monsters be
between 7-10 and be composed of 3-4 clans.
Adding additional defenders above 10 can ease the diffi-
culty, but at the expense of much longer combat sessions.
More clans results in henchmen being blocked from
movement making defense harder or even completely
untenable depending on the layout of the base.
Easier Defense:
In order to make combat easier for the defending players
the following changes can be made. Take heed as ap-
plying more than one will have an exponential increase in
ease:
Less Defender Clans. Have players choose from two
or three defender clans to increase defender compatibility
and reduce the likelihood of blocked defender movement.
More Defenders. Adding additional defenders (more
than the suggested maximum of 10) results in a greater
number of defender actions versus the attacking heroes.
Effective Traps. Adding another CR ½ trap to Tier 1
and 2 or another CR 1 trap to Tier 3 or 4.
Limited Blessings. Limit blessings to only one or
two of your attacking heroes or by reducing their overall
potency. For example, an blessing that lasts all day can
instead only be used three times per day.
Stronger Lair Defenses. When combating an alternate
objective, like base destruction, increase the number of
damage points required for attackers to succeed (10 vs.
8), or provide more avenues for players to combat this
damage (such as nearby fountains pr water sources when
the base is being attacked via fire)
Difficult Defense:
To help increase the difficulty of base defense, the fol-
lowing changes can be applied with exponential spike to
combat difficulty when choosing more than one:
More Defender Clans. Suitable for large sprawling
lairs, adding an additional defender clan (for a maximum
of 5) reduces the total defender compatibility and restricts
defender movement.
Faulty Traps. Deployed traps aren’t reliable so have a
chance to fail to deploy when triggered (roll 1d20, on a 1
the trap fails to deploy) or cannot be used multiple times.
Seasoned Heroes. Increasing the Attacker CR allows
for more powerful attackers or for further Blessings to be
applied to the available attackers.
Twice Blessed. Adding an extra blessing to an attacker
that already has one or increase the bonus the blessing
provides.
47
Well Prepared. The attackers are knowledgeable and
well-prepared for infiltration and may have useful items
like torches, vials of oil or healing potions.
Weak Lair Defenses. When combating an alternate
objective, like base destruction, decrease the number of
damage points required for attackers to succeed (8 vs.
10), or provide more avenues for attackers to deal base
damage (vials of oil or torches to help set the base alight)
Lair Discovery!
1d12 Discovering the Lair
1 Betrayal! One of the organization members
leaked the location in exchange for a reward
from the authorities.
2 An inside Job… The latest recruitr is a spy in-
tent on infiltrating the organization and discove-
ring the location of the secret lair.
3 Confession. While captured and under duress,
an organization member reveals the lair loca-
tion.
4 A Rival Organization. Another evil organization
has discovered the players’ lair and tipped off
the authorities in order to weaken the competi-
tion.
5 A Powerful Divination Spell. A powerful seer
has helped locate the players’ lair, possibly even
from a great distance.
6 Dirty Items. One of the recent magic items or
artefacts confiscated has a hidden tracking spell.
7 A Teleportation Mishap… A spell or device
used for teleportation malfunctioned and led to
the discovery of the lair.
8 Too Many Crooks! An apprentice necromancer
has raised too many skeletons and an uncon-
trolled horde of undead has spilled out into the
streets, drawing attention to the secret lair.
9 Construction Woes. The secret lair has been
accidentally discovered during the construction
of a neighbouring building who have alerted the
authorities.
10 Unnatural Disaster! A flood or an earthquake
has damaged the lair and revealing the hidden
inner workings to the neighborhood.
11 Mating Season. A pet or monster within the
secret lair, driven by its mating instincts, ma-
nages to escape and is spotted by unsuspecting
civilians or authorities
12 Unwanted Guests. One of the members orga-
nized a party andthings got out of hand as the
lair was discovered by neighbors.
Organization Mascot owlbear represents the untamed side of nature. At the
same time, it embodies balance, symbolizing the delicate
equilibrium of the natural world.
In the world of adventure and intrigue, every organization
needs an emblem that represents its core values and
The owlbear’s fearsome reputation serves as
beliefs. Enter the mascot, a beloved creature that serves
a symbol of the organization’s shared
as a symbol of the group’s identity and spirit. Whether
commitment to the preservation of
it’s a baby dragon to testify the nobility of your heart, a
the environment, and becomes
loyal dog that wins over guards, or a mischievous cat that
a glaring warning to those
charms the thieves, the right mascot can make all the
who would interfere with the
difference in the success of your organization.
natural order of the party’s
plans. The owlbear’s pre-
In this chapter, we present a collection of potential
sence is particularly effective
mascots that players can choose for their secret organi-
when interacting with people
zation. While not the physically strongest member of the
who have a strong connec-
organization, the mascot plays a vital role in boosting
tion to nature.
morale and inspiring loyalty among its members. Each
Gain a +1 to any social inte-
mascot listed provides a unique flavor to the organization
raction with rangers, druids,
and offers a small bonus to any social interaction with a
or other individuals who have
particular group of people.
dedicated themselves to the
protection of the natural world.
The Dragon
Overall, choosing the baby owlbear as your organization’s
The dragon is a creature of legend, a symbol of power
mascot is a statement of solidarity with the forces of na-
and might that has captured the imaginations of people
ture, and a powerful reminder that balance and fierceness
for generations. As a mascot for your organization, a baby
can coexist in perfect harmony.
dragon’s fiery reputation represents the group’s strength
and ambition to achieve greatness, dominate or conquer.
The Cat
Whether through force of arms or cunning diplomacy, the
A black cat in particular has long been associated with
dragon’s very presence inspires awe and respect among
bad luck, and can represent the organization’s ability to
many, making it easier for the party to gain an audience
operate in the shadows and manipulate their surroun-
with those in positions of authority and to negotiate
dings to achieve their goals. The cat, with its reputation
favorable deals. Gain a +1 to any social interaction with
as a sly and stealthy creature, is the perfect mascot for a
powerful individuals such as nobles and lords when
secret organization seeking to navigate the underworld.
the dragon is
the organization
With an air of mystery and intrigue, the cat’s reputation
mascot.
for being able to slink unnoticed through even the most
dangerous of environments makes it an ideal symbol for
Overall, choosing
an organization that relies on stealth and subterfuge.
the baby dragon as
Gain +1 to any social interac-
your organization’s
tion with those in the criminal
mascot is a bold
underworld, including thieves,
statement of intent,
smugglers, and other unsavo-
signaling to all that
ry characters.
you are a force
to be reckoned
Overall, choosing the cat as
with and that your
your organization’s mascot
ambitions know no
sends a clear message that you
bounds.
are a force to be reckoned with
in the underworld, and that
The Owlbear your ability to move unnoticed
and manipulate your surroun-
The owlbear is a unique and fascinating creature, and dings makes you a valuable ally
choosing it as your organization’s mascot has many bene- or a formidable foe.
fits. With its wild origins and fierce hunting instincts, the

48
The Green Parakeet
As birds that are native to many different regions, farmers
often rely on the green parakeet’s bright plumage and na-
tural agility to deter and control pests that threaten their
crops. The parakeet’s ability to fly and move quickly repre-
sents adaptability and resourcefulness, key traits ideal for
any successful clandestine organization who’s focus is
on gathering information and taking swift
action against their foes.
The green parakeet is an ex-
cellent symbol for an orga-
nization that values speed,
precision and a warning
to those that would cross
them. The Parakeet also re-
flects the organization’s role
in maintaining the balance of
the ecosystem and those that
work within it.
The green parakeet grants a small
bonus of +1 to any social interaction
with farmers or other rural inhabitants,
who are essential to the group’s operations.
Overall, the green parakeet as your mascot solidifies you
as an organization representing a pillar of vigilance, their
plumage a bright warning to all adversaries that may get
in their way while holding court over their demense.
The Dog
The dog’s ability to form deep emotional bonds with its
human companions makes it a powerful symbol of unity
and camaraderie. As a steadfast companion and fierce
protector, the dog makes an excellent mascot for any
organization that values strength and security.
As a symbol of loyalty and obedience, the dog can help
the party establish valuable connections and
increase rapport with those that protect and
serve. Gain a +1 bonus to any social in-
teraction with guards and members
of local militia.
In short, the dog is an excellent
choice for any organization that
values toughness, loyalty, and
security, demonstrating the
organization’s commitment to
working together and suppor-
ting one another through thick
and thin.
49
The Demon
The baby demon is a fearsome creature of
dark magic and malevolent power that is
sure to unnerve the hearts of all who op-
pose your organization. As a mascot,
its infernal nature is a perfect symbol
for an organization that seeks to
harness the power of the dark
forces and strike fear into your
enemies.
Choosing the baby demon as your
organization’s mascot is a bold
move, but one that is sure to pay off
in the long run. By aligning yourselves
with the forces of darkness, you signal
to all that you are not to be trifled with,
and that you are willing to go to any lengths to
achieve your goals. Gain +1 to any social interac-
tion with wizards, warlocks, and other practitioners
of the dark arts.
With the baby demon by your side, you can be sure that
your organization’s reputation as a force to be reckoned
with in the world of magic will precede you wherever
you go.
The Octopus
The octopus is a creature of mystery and intrigue that
has captured the imaginations of people for centuries. Its
ability to change its color and shape according to its sur-
roundings makes it an ideal mascot for
an organization with the ingenuity
and flexibility to thrive in any
environment.
The octopus’s reputation for
intelligence and shrewdness
precedes it, representing the
party’s quest for success and
prosperity and making it easier
for the party to negotiate favorable
deals and forge profitable alliances. Gain +1 to any
social interaction with merchants and traders.
Choosing the octopus as your organization’s mascot
is a wise decision, signifying that you are a group of
shrewd and adaptable individuals capable of cunning
strategy and quick adaptation.
Lair Building
In this clandestine world of secret lairs and secure bases,
a unique sanctum provides adventurers with a hidden
haven where strategies are hatched, spoils are stored, and
weary bodies may find rest.
Players love to have agency in the stories they are a part
of, and establishing a base of operation in the form of a
lair is the perfect opportunity to exercise that creativity.
Whether they want to build an underground dungeon,
clandestine operations in the sewers, a fortified castle in
the sky, or a secret hideout in the woods, the choice is
theirs in how they root themselves within the worl.
In this section, we’ll explore the different types of custo-
mization options available to you, from the layout of the
lair to the type of traps and artefacts they can install. So
gather the party, grab a type of building, and get ready to
create the perfect lair that suits their needs and style.
Lair Tiers
Whether it’s a quaint farmhouse nestled in the quiet
countryside, an unassuming inn bustling with stories
and opportunities, or a mystical school tucked away from
prying eyes, each location offers a unique blend of oppor-
tunities and challenges. The Lair Tier will determine the
overall size based on its number of rooms and entrances.
Tiers: The complexity and size of the lair can be scaled
according to these tiers:
Tier 1 A modest setup with six rooms and three
entrances. Ideal for small parties or those just
beginning their adventuring careers.
Tier 2 A more expansive lair comprising eight
rooms and four entrances. This allows for
more flexibility in layout and defense strate-
gies.
Tier 3+ A grand sprawling lair featuring at least ten
rooms and six entrances, perfect for expe-
rienced adventurers with ample resources and
reputation.
In this chapter, we present you with a variety of maps,
each representing a potential lair that the players can
purchase, rent, or occupy through other means.
50
Lair Entrances, Rooms and Path
to the Core
To begin, it’s important to understand that the lair’s
exterior is merely a façade, disguising the true heart of
your operations. This could be any type of structure and is
subject only to your imagination and narrative needs.
Entrances: Entrances serve as the gateways to your se-
cret world. Intruders or attackers may attempt to breach
your sanctuary through any accessible points: doors,
windows, secret passages, etc. As the owner, you have
the power to fortify these entrances, but remember, a lair
with too many entrances can be difficult to defend.
Rooms: Rooms are any space large enough to station
guards, traps or can display many valuable pieces of
equipment. Monsters can only occupy rooms, they will
not station in corridors, tiny bathrooms or closets, as
small rooms would get full quite quickly. The norkers still
rib their colleague about that one time they got trapped in
the bathroom with the Minotaur…
When creating the layout for a base or lair, DMs can use
existing maps or start from scratch and we suggest the
below room sizes based on our testing:
Small rooms: 15 x 15 ft.
Standard rooms: 20 x 20 up to 30 x 30 ft.
Large rooms: No larger than 30 x 50 ft.
Path to the Core: The layout of the lair should direct
visitors (wanted or unwanted) through a series of rooms
before they reach the lair’s heart, where your characters
plan their operations or store their prized possessions.
Players (or DMs) can define one room to house a secret
passage leading to this core, this part is where intruders
shouldn’t put their nose. If intruders spend enough time
in this room investigating the defense the base is lost.
Traps
A dramatic part of any lair’s defenses, traps provide
a hidden layer of protection against potential threats.
Some traps are straightforward and direct, meant to deal
significant damage to those who trigger them. Others are
subtle, designed to slow down or impede intruders while
letting defenders make the perfect counter-attack. Ultima-
tely, the traps used in a lair should be a reflection of the
player’s style and preferences. They should be used not
only to defend the lair but also to showcase the creativity
and ingenuity of its builders. With the right combination
of traps and strategy, any lair can become an impene-
trable fortress that strikes fear into the hearts of would-be
intruders.
The magical and mechanical traps here are adjusted
from what you would find in the basic 5E sourcebooks
and consist of two levels for installation, basic traps and
advanced traps:
• Basic Traps (CR 0.5) are a great starting point for
new players, dealing a moderate amount of damage to
providing a solid foundation for defense.
• Advanced Traps (CR 1) are designed to deal signifi-
cant damage when triggered and require careful plan-
ning and execution to be effective. Heroes will have a
more difficult time due to their higher DC.
We put a lot of thought into designing a wide variety of
traps, each with unique features and applications. But
when designing traps, it was crucial to strike a balance
between effectiveness and fairness. Players need to feel
challenged after all! Therefore, some traps have univer-
sal effects while other traps synergize with artifacts and
monsters to form a cohesive defense strategy. Players are
encouraged to experiment with different combinations to
find what works best for them, and to refine their strategy
as they encounter new threats.
Acquiring Traps
When it comes to incorporating traps into a lair, there are
multiple options available to the DM such as quest rewar-
ds, level progression or through purchase, to name a few.
Quest Rewards: Traps or trap plans earned through quest
rewards can replace other treasure, and can be a wonder-
ful method to showcase the traps to the players, especial-
ly if they need to bypass it themselves during the course
of the quest or adventure. However this method gives
the least amount of player collaboration as they cannot
choose the trap that they receive.
51
For example, basic traps found in dungeons or while infil-
trating another hideout could be disassembled. Advanced
traps could be earned as part of a quest to recruit new
henchmen to the lair, such as a group of rascally juvenile
norkers that just love to use exploding barrels…
Level Progression: Traps earned through level progres-
sion offer a steadier automated system with more DM and
player collaboration. Both DM and players know when
new traps will become available, the DM can still plan
ahead to match the available traps to the CR of the heroes
likely to attack the base, and the players get to choose
from the traps on offer. Additionally, this method can be
used without adventure or quest progression such as if
you are running a lair defense game, but can just as easily
be a starting point for plot hooks if a particular item or
special ingredient is required to set up the trap.
For example once the party has reached a certain le-
vel, the DM can offer the players a choice between two
randomly selected basic traps through a trap engineer.
The players can then choose one to be built and installed
in their lair, while the other plan is shelved or discarded.
If the players want an advanced trap, they can refuse the
basic traps and instead ask their engineer to refine their
offer, gaining an advanced trap at a cost such as additio-
nal time to set up, more gold or required materials!
Purchasing Traps: Purchasing traps is by far the least
upfront planning method for a DM. Like with level pro-
gression it can be used without quests and could even
help introduce a recurring NPC merchant or trap en-
gineer. This system is also particularly useful for players
who want even more control over the types of traps they
have in their lair.
For example, players or their organizations can pay a set
amount of gold to build and set up traps. However, it’s im-
portant to limit the number of traps available to players,
so that they don’t become too powerful or overwhelming
for intruders.
The table below gives our suggested cost for basic or
advanced traps which can also be used to replace some
or all of the quest reward value. For the recommended
number of henchmen and traps for each level of play or
lair level review page 43.
Trap Type CR Setup Cost
Basic 1/2 500
Advanced 1 2000
Trap Placement as a base, with an additional effect in case of failure on a
save. This modification provides a fair and balanced ga-
Strategic placement of traps in the dungeon can be the meplay experience while still maintaining the excitement
key to the party’s success. Therefore, it’s imperative to and danger that traps bring to a game.
plan carefully and choose the most effective locations for
the traps. A well-placed trap can save the party from an
onslaught of enemies, but misplaced or poorly planned Basic Traps
traps can cause more harm than good.
D12 Name
Traps can be set up in any room large enough to contain 1 Charming Trap
their trigger area. However, with the exception of the
Spring Trap, only one trap can be placed in each room. 2 Falling Net
Engineers who specialize in trap installation will refuse to 3 Fire Scorcher
work in a room where there is already a trap, deeming it 4 Frightening Trap
too risky.
5 Poison Snake Statue
Trap Triggers & Area of Effect 6 Poisonous Spike Trap
7 Puppet Decoy
When it comes to traps, it’s important to understand
8 Shadow Bind Trap
two key components: the trigger and the area of effect.
For the traps described herein, we’ve simplified the two 9 Snow Dispenser
main components for easier use.primary forms of trigger 10 Spring Trap
mechanisms - the pressure plate and the magic zone. A
11 Swinging mace
pressure plate will activate the trap when anyone walks
over it, making it an effective way to protect a specific 12 Tar Spitter
area. On the other hand, the magic zone will only be trig-
gered by intruders who are not meant to be there, such as Charming Trap
enemies or trespassers. This ensures that only those who Trigger: Enter magic zone
are not authorized to enter the area will activate the trap, Area of Effect: 10 ft. x 10 ft., one creature
preventing accidental harm to the party or their allies.
This magical trap creates a magical zone containing a
DM Notes: Whenever the attacking heroes progresses tranquility charm. When a creature enters the area for the
in the lair without fighting, a trap with an area of effect first time on a turn or starts its turn there, it must make a
is meant to affect 2 heroes. But some other factors could DC 13 Charisma save or take a -2 penalty on saving rolls
also determine that less or more heroes are affected. and attack rolls for 1 minute. On a success, the -2 penalty
lasts until the end of its next turn.
The area of effect is the second critical component, as it If the target suffers any harm before the duration ends, it
determines how many targets are affected by the trap. can repeat the saving throw with advantage, ending the
Simple traps may target only the creature that triggered effect on a success.
them, whereas more complex traps can target an entire
area, indiscriminately affecting everyone within it. Once this trap has affected a creature that failed saving
throw, it can’t be triggered again before midnight.
In addition to the trigger and area of effect, other factors
such as damage output, cost, and complexity must also be Falling Net
considered. Each trap should be designed with a speci- Trigger: 5 ft. x 5 ft. pressure plate
fic purpose in mind and should complement the other Area of Effect: 15 ft. x 15 ft.
traps in the lair’s defenses. By taking the time to carefully
plan and execute their trap designs, players can create a When a creature activates the pressure plate, a net falls
fortress that is not only challenging to intruders but also a from the ceiling and ensnares those in a 15 ft. square cen-
reflection of their unique style and personality. tered on the pressure plate. The net deals no damage but
any character in the zone must make a DC 14 Dexterity
We have made adjustments to the traps compared to save or become Restrained.
those found in the official 5E books. The traps in the
original books were primarily «save or suck,» which could
potentially upset the balance of the game. To address this
issue, we have designed traps that have a minor effect

52
A creature can use its Action to make a DC 12 Strength
check, freeing itself or another creature within its reach
on a success. The net has 20 Hit Points, AC 10 and is
vulnerable to slashing damage. Destroying the net frees
any creature trapped in it.
This trap can be triggered once per day.
Fire Scorcher
Trigger: 10 ft. x 10 ft. magic zone set up next to a wall or
door.
Area of Effect: a 15 ft. cone coming from the wall or door.
Whenever a hero triggers the trapped door or wall, a 15
ft. cone of flames spouts forth. The triggering creature
must make a DC 14 Dexterity save, while any other
creature caught in the area of effect must roll a DC 13
Dexterity save, suffering 3d6 fire damage or half on a
successful roll.
This trap can be triggered once per day.
Frightening Trap
Trigger: 10 ft. x 10 ft pressure plate
Area of Effect: One creature
Whenever a creature steps on the trigger plate a fake
ghost pops out from the floor and the creature must make
a DC14 Wisdom save or become Frightened.
While frightened by this trap, the creature must take the
Dash action to move away from the trap by the safest
available route on each of its turns, unless there is
nowhere to move. If the creature ends its turn in a loca-
tion where it doesn’t have line of sight to the fake ghost,
the creature can make another Wisdom save, ending the
effect on a success.
This trap can be triggered once per day.
Poison Snake Statue
Trigger: 10 ft. x 10 ft. trigger plate
Area of Effect: 15 ft. x 15 ft. zone
When setting up this trap, players
should also choose where the area
of effect will occur.
Whenever a hero steps on the
trigger plate, a gout of poiso-
nous gas is released that fills a
15 ft. x 15 ft. cube. Any charac-
ter in the cloud must make a
DC 13 Constitution save, suffe-
53
ring 1d6 poison damage on failure or half on success.
The poison cloud stays 1d4+1 rounds and affects any
creature that enters the area for the first time or starts its
turn there. On the subsequent turn, the poison cloud is
dispersed.
This trap can be triggered only one time per day.
Poisonous Spike Trap
Trigger: 10 ft. x 10 ft. pressure plate
Area of Effect: One creature
Upon stepping on the pressure plate, spikes shower
forth onto the creature below. Anyone triggering the trap
suffers 1d6 piercing damage and must make a DC 13
Constitution saving throw or suffer an additional 1d6
poison damage and become poisoned for 1 minute.
This trap is triggered every time someone steps on the
pressure plate.
Puppet Decoy
Trigger: enters 10 ft. x 10 ft. magic zone
Area of Effect: 15 ft. x 15 ft. zone
Whenever a hero enters the zone, it
triggers the Puppet decoy to suddenly
emerge from the ground. All heroes
that can see the puppet decoy have
disadvantage on ranged attacks or
ranged spells until the end of their
next turn. The hero that triggered
the trap must make a DC 13 Wisdom
saving throw or also lose their reaction.
This trap can be triggered once per day.
Shadow Bind Trap
Trigger: Enters magic zone
Area of Effect: 10 ft. x 10 ft., one creature
When a creature enters the 10 ft. square magic zone, a
spell is cast that binds their shadows to the floor. The
creature’s movement speed becomes 0 until the
end of its next turn and must make a DC 14
Wisdom saving throw or its movement speed
stays 0 for an additional round.
The trap can be dispelled by exposing
it to light or with the dispel spell. Once
this trap has been activated, it can’t be
triggered again before midnight.
 Snow Dispenser Swinging Mace
Trigger: 10 ft. x 10 ft. pressure plate Trigger: 10 ft. x 10 ft. pressure plate
Area of Effect: 15 ft. x 15 ft. zone Area of Effect: any creature on a 20 ft. x 5 ft. line

Whenever a hero steps on the This trap uses a pressure plate

trigger plate, the area is ma- that lets loose a mace that
gically covered with ice and swings forward and back in a
becomes difficult terrain. 20 ft. line beginning from the
Any creature that enters trigger plate area. The player
the area for the first next in turn order chooses the
time on a turn or starts direction of the swinging mace.
its turn there must
make a DC 15 Dexte- On the forward swing, any
rity save or fall prone. creature in the area of effect
must make a DC 15 Dexterity
save or suffer 2d6 bludgeoning
damage. On initiative count 0
Spring Trap the mace swings back, dealing
Trigger: 10 ft. x 10 ft. pressure plate 2d6 bludgeoning damage to
Area of Effect: One creature any creature situated in its area
of effect unless they succeed on a DC 15 Dexterity save.
When setting up this trap, players must choose a direc-
tion to have affected creatures pushed. This trap can be triggered once and stops moving on
Whenever a creature steps on the trigger plate, they must subsequent turns.
make a DC 14 Dexterity save or be pushed up to 10 ft. in
the designated direction to a free space and are knocked Tar Spitter
prone. If they succeed the saving throw, they are pushed Trigger: 10 ft. x 10 ft. pressure plate
away 10 ft. in a random direction instead: roll a d8 and Area of Effect: 15 ft. x 15 ft. zone
move 10 ft. in the direction indicated below:
When triggered, a sticky, flammable tar bursts forth in a
15 ft. square, covering the feet and legs of creatures wit-
hin that zone who suffer 1d6 poison damage and gain a

1 2 3 -10 ft. reduction to their movement speed until the end of

their turn. Additionally, when leaving the zone, a creature
must make a DC 13 Strength save to successfully extri-
cate themselves from the tar or become vulnerable to fire

4  5
until they spend 1 minute cleaning themselves.

This trap is triggered every time someone steps on the

pressure plate. It doesn’t have a limitation to its use.

6 7 8
If the space is occupied by another creature or object,
they and the creature they are pushed into suffer 1d6
bludgeoning damage.

This trap is triggered every time someone steps on the

pressure plate. It is also easy to set up and doesn’t count
in the limit of 1 trap per room so can be installed in a
room where there is already a trap.

54
Advanced Traps Explosive Barrel
Trigger: Attacking the barrel (located on a 5x5 square)
D12 Name Area of Effect/Target: All creatures within 10 feet of the
barrel (25 x 25 ft. cube).
1 Acid Pool
2 Dart Spitter This barrel is rigged to explode on impact. If the barrel
3 Explosive Barrel (AC 8) is hit with an attack, the barrel explodes at the end
of that creature’s turn. All creatures within 10 ft. of the
4 Gravity Trap
barrel must make a DC 10 Dexterity save, taking 4d6 fire
5 Love Trap damage or half damage on a success.
6 Poison demon Statue
This trap can be triggered only one time per day. Then
7 Shock Zapper
trap resets at midnight.
8 Slowing Trap
9 Teleporting Trap
10 Turret Gravity Trap
Trigger: 10 ft. x 10 ft. pressure plate
11 Unholy Bear Trap Area of Effect/Target: One creature
12 Wind Generator Trap
Whenever a creature steps on the trigger plate they gain
Acid Pool a 10 ft. reduction to their movement speed until the end
Trigger: Jumps over the acid pool of their turn and must make a DC 15 Dexterity saving
Area of Effect/Target: 10 ft. x 10 ft. pool, one creature throw. On a failure, they become restrained as they are
pulled 10 ft. straight up into the air. Restrained creatures
A 10 ft. square acid pool blocks passage and must be tra- are released at the beginning of their next turn, falling
versed. Whenever a creature tries to jump over the acid prone and suffering 1d6 bludgeoning damage.
pool they hit an invisible obstacle taking 2d6 bludgeoning
damage and then must make a DC 15 Dexterity save or Until a creature is restrained by this trap, it can be trigge-
fall into the acid pool below suffering an additional 3d6 red any number of times. The trap resets at midnight.
acid damage.

This trap doesn’t have a limitation to its use, but a hero Love Trap
will not jump if they saw another hero blocked by the Trigger: Enters magic zone
invisible barrier. Area of Effect: 20 ft. x 20 ft. square

A note on placement: If this acid trap is set up in a way
that fully blocks a doorway into a room or passage down
a hallway, it poses a formidable obstacle to the heroes.
To balance this, the heroes must have an alternate travel
route to bypass the blocked passage.
When a creature enters the magic zone or starts its turn
there, it must make a DC 15 Charisma save or become
charmed by the highest charisma monster within the
dungeon and cannot attack or otherwise harm the-
monster. If that monster dies or damages the charmed
creature, the effect immediately ends.

Dart Spitter This trap can be triggered only one time per day and
Trigger: 10 ft. x 10 ft. trigger resets at midnight.
plate
Area of Effect/Target: All crea-
tures within the room

Whenever a hero steps on the

trigger plate, multiple volleys of
darts fly through the room requi-
ring every creature in the room
to make a DC 15 Dexterity save
or suffer 2d6 piercing damage.

This trap can be triggered once

per day and resets at midnight.

55
Poison Demon Statue
Trigger: 10 ft. x 10 ft. pressure plate
Area of Effect: 20 ft. x 20 ft. sphere
Whenever a hero steps on the trigger
plate, a 20 ft. sphere poison cloud
centered on the pressure plate is
released before dissipating after 1
minute. Any character in the cloud
must make a DC 15 Constitution
save or suffer 3d6 poison damage
and become poisoned or take half
damage on a success.
At the start of each of its turns, a
poisoned creature can make another
Constitution save or suffer 1d6 poison
damage, ending the effect on a success.
This trap can be triggered once per day and resets at
midnight.
Shock Zapper
Trigger: 10 ft. x 10 ft. magic zone
Area of Effect/Target: One creature
A cryptic riddle is intricately inscribed on the wall
adjacent to the trap and acts as a memory aid for the
command word required for safe passage. Whenever a
creature steps on the zone, it must make a DC 15 Intel-
ligence save to speak the command word or suffer 4d6
lightning damage. The lightning then arcs to another
creature within 10 ft. who suffers 2d6 lightning damage.
If a target is wearing metallic armor, they take an addi-
tional 1d6 lightning damage.
This trap can be triggered once per turn and will conti-
nue to trigger until a creature fails its saving throw and
suffers the full effect. The trap resets at midnight.
Slowing Trap
Trigger: 10 ft. x 10 ft. magic zone
Area of Effect: 20 ft. x 20 ft. square
Whenever a creature enters the magical trigger zone, a
slowing spell is cast in a 20 ft. square centered on the
trigger. Creatures caught within the area of effect must
succeed on a DC 15 Wisdom save or be affected by the
spell until the end of their next turn.
While affected, a creature’s speed is halved, it takes
a −2 penalty to AC and Dexterity saving throws, and
it cannot use their Reaction. On their turn, they can
choose to use either an Action or a Bonus Action,
but not both.
This trap can be triggered once per day and resets
at midnight.
56
Teleporting trap
Trigger: 10 ft. x 10 ft. pressure plate
Area of Effect/Target: One creature
Whenever a hero steps on the trigger plate,
they must make a DC 15 Intelligence
saving throw and be teleported 3d4 x 5 ft.
away on a failure or 1d4 x 5ft on success.
Roll a d8 to randomly determine the
direction they will be teleported to. If
the destination they are teleported to is
occupied or outside of the lair, they will be
teleported instead to an adjacent space or
the nearest unoccupied position inside the
lair. If another creature enters the teleporting
trap, they will be teleported to the same direction
as the first teleported creature.
This trap can be triggered once per
round.
Turret
Trigger: Enters magic zone
(the room)
Area of Effect/Target: One crea-
ture
Whenever an attacking hero enters a room
affected by this trap, the turret (AC 12 and 20 HP) acti-
vates to immediately attack them. The darts shot from
the turrent have a +5 bonus to hit, range or 80/320 ft. and
deal 2d6 piercing damage.
Every round, the turret attacks one hero within range at
initiative 0, staying active until midnight or destroyed.
Unholy Bear Trap
Trigger: 10 ft. x 10 ft. pressure plate
Area of Effect: One creature
When triggered, the metal jaws of this bear trap unmoor
and snap shut in an attempt to entrap a creature. The trap
automatically resets itself if no creature was caught.
A creature stepping on the pressure plate
must make a DC 15 Dexterity save
to escape the trap jaws. On a
failure, they take 2d6 piercing
damage, their movement
speed becomes 0 and
their next attack is made
at disadvantage. At the
beginning of their sub-
sequent turns, a trapped
creature can use their
Action to make a DC 15
Strength check to pry
open the trap otherwise
their movement speed stays at 0. Any other creature can Lair Maps by Tier
use its action to free the victim.

This trap can be triggered once per turn, resetting itself

Tier 1 Farm
if no creature was caught. It must be reactivated the
following day once a creature is caught and fails its saving
throw.

Wind Generator Trap

Trigger: 10 ft. x 10 ft. pressure plate
Area of Effect: 20 ft. x 10 ft.

When placing this trap, players should determine its area

of effect location and wind direction.

Activated by tripwires released via pressure plate, anyone

situated in the area of effect must make a Strength save
or be pushed away by a sudden gale, taking damage if
hitting an object or creature when pushed. The distance
and damage incurred is based on the resulting save value
as seen on the following table:

Save Effect Damage if hitting an obstacle

Result or creature
12 or less 15 ft. push 3d6 bludgeoning
back and fall
prone
13 - 14 10 ft. push 2d6 bludgeoning
back
Tier 2 Church
15 - 16 5 ft. push 1d6 bludgeoning
back
16 or No effect -
more

57
Tier 2 Inn

58
Tier 2 Shop

59
Tier 3 Prison

60
Lair Artefacts Fountain of Spilling
Found, bought or earned during their adventures, the The Fountain of
players may come across a new form of magic items: Spilling artefact will
dungeon artefacts. These items are not directly usable quickly overflow
by players like equipment, rather their power is used to its container when
accentuate and customize their fiendish base. placed in a chamber.
For an unknown
Each room can only be equipped with one artefact at a reason though, the
time. Should players place multiple artefacts in the same cascades of water
room, the power of each overwhelms the other, cance- stop at the doorway
ling the effects of both and losing their effectiveness in as if an invisible
combat. barrier blocks it from
spreading further.
Mysterious Sovereign Sword
The flooding and waterlogging make the surrounding
When a melee hero (a Tank or Scout) enters area difficult terrain for those without a swim score. Addi-
this room, they move to the center of the tionally, all successful attacks within this room deal one
room and attempt to pull the sword out less damage.
of its rock... without success. A hero
attempting to remove the sword Creatures flying through the room are unaffected by
loses an attack during this turn. this difficult terrain.

A hero will not risk approaching Description: Created ages ago, this excessing
the sword if they risk triggering an water feature was briefly owned by a traveling circus
attack of opportunity, but will do which used it for their “classy” fish dances. The show
so as soon as they are no longer in had a very disappointing run given the saltwater fish and
danger provoking such an attack. freshwater fountain and since then this magic object has
passed from owner to owner.
Description: This sword is a replica of a famous magic
sword and emits an aura of power just like the original, Inspiring Trophy Weapons
it is the dream of every adventurer who can use a sword!
If one studies it carefully, an ancient dwarven inscription A multitude of Inspiring Trophy Weapons once hung on
appears slightly off -center at the back of the blade: Not the walls inspire warriors to greater deeds in combat. Any
Suitable For Children Under 3 Years Old. creature within this room who lands a successful melee
attack in the room deals 2 more damage.
The Unholy Harpsichord
Description: These weapons placed on the wall are said
When set up inside a chamber, the Unholy Harpsichord to be connected to a demon worshiped by a few strong
will continuously play disturbing and discordant music. and militant orc tribes. A
Each creature within the chamber is considered Deafe- small placard at the
ned and casting a Spell that includes a verbal component bottom right of the
becomes impossible. display shows a por-
trait of a horned
Description: This demon with red
harpsichord constant- skin bearing
ly emits slow, droning the nickname
chords. It clearly of ‘The Great
must have belonged Bruiser’ and
to a half-deaf musi- an inscription
cian who disappeared below: Sweat
(or fled!) without for the Sweat
uttering a command God!
word in order to stop
the overpowering
strains.

61
Heated Fireplace Dueling Throne
While lit in any room, the Heated Fireplace releases em- Each creature entering or
bers which float along the eddies in the room and ultima- starting its turn in the room
tely towards any creatures that remain within. with the Dueling Throne must
succeed on a DC 15 Charisma
Any creature that starts its turn in the room must move at saving throw or become unable
least 15 ft. on their turn or take 1d6+3 fire damage at the to attack a creature that has
end of their turn. Creatures that cannot move, such as if already been attacked this round.
they are unconscious or in a grapple, suffer this damage
automatically. Description: There it stands, the Due-
ling Throne… Carved from the bones of fallen
As long as the Heated Fireplace is lit, its power remains warriors, it has been adorned with the teeth and claws of
activated in the room. fierce beasts, the seat is elevated on a platform of rough-
hewn stones, and even the backrest is graced with the
Description: The crafts- skull of a powerful orcish shaman.
manship is clear when
observing the stone The throne imposes its powerful presence upon all who
that this fireplace was see it, radiating an aura of dominance and aggression,
carved from. While and inspiring any warrior who sits upon it to defend their
the corbels are quite territory with ferocity.
embellished, it is the
remarkably lifelike vi- Undead Relic
sage of a red dragon
on the lintel that truly In a room hosting the Undead Relic, whenever a crea-
draws the eye. An ture’s hit points are reduced to 0, it immediately rises as
irascible fire spirit a Dead Walker. This creature is an ally of the players and
has been sealed creatures that inhabit the lair, maintains the appearance
inside, granting the of the creature it once was, and maintains its original
unending warmth position in initiative order.
and its surly attitude to war-
ming up those in its abode. If the creature that was reduced to 0 hit points was
already an undead creature, the newly
Refreshing Mysteary awakened Dead Walker gains an
additional 10 temporary hit points.
While this pot of Refershing Mysteary stands in the
middle of the room, any creature within 5ft. can heal This Artefact can be activated only
themself for 1d8+3 hp as a reaction, however upon doing once per 24h.
so, they cannot leave the room until their next turn.
Description: The ancient Undead
Description: Brewed by a powerful sorcerer, and im- Relic artefact once belonged to a
bued with powerful healing magic, it is said that whoe- powerful necromancer, who suffused
ver drinks the Refreshing Mysteary it will be instantly it with trapped and raging souls that
restored to full health, and their wounds weaken the living until they can be
healed. However, the tea is said to turned to the necromancer’s side.
be very dangerous, as it is said Fashioned with ominous-looking
that whoever drinks it will glass and adorned with intricate
become cursed, and will engravings of undead creatures, it
be unable to leave radiates a sense of dread and unease,
the room until the and is a fearsome item in the hands
curse is lifted. of the undead.

62
Poisonous Enchantment
While the Poisonous Enchantment is on
display in a room, any creature that en-
ters the room or starts its turn within it,
while wielding a weapon, adds an extra
1d6 poison damage to that weapon’s
damage until the end of the turn.
Description: The Poisonous Anchant-
ment artefact is made of a dark, greenish
metal and is adorned with intricate engra-
vings of venomous snakes. Shrouded in
mystery, and dripping with poison, this arte-
fact is said to have been created by a powerful
witch to poison any but her who dares to weild it.
Ages on, it still radiates a sense of malice and danger,
affecting nearby weapons. When properly deployed it is a
deadly weapon for those who seek to harm others.
Golden Tree
Each creature entering, or starting its turn in the room
with the Golden Tree, has its AC adjusted to match the
strength of the tree’s bark, an AC of 12, regardless of the
armor they wear. The members of Nature’s Wrath are
immune to this effect.
Description: This beautiful artefact, known as the
Golden Tree, is said to have been created by a powerful
druid, who imbued it with the power to protect those who
stand beneath its branches. The tree is made of a golden
leaf and is adorned with intricate engravings of leaves
and branches. It is said to radiate a sense of serenity and
safety, making it a powerful tool in the hands of those
who seek to protect others.
Dragon Trophy
Each creature entering or starting its turn
in the room with a Dragon Trophy gains a
breath weapon until the end of their turn.
Once they start a new turn outside the
room, they lose this breath weapon.
While blessed by the Dragon Trophy they
can exhale fire in a 15-foot cone once per
turn. Each creature in that area must make
a DC 12 Dexterity saving throw, taking 10
(3d6) fire damage on a failed save, or half as
much damage on a successful one.
Description: The Dragon Trophy is made of real
dragon scales and is adorned with intricate engravings on
the dragon’s head. Defeated in battle by a brave warrior,
this impressive
artefact is said to
have been taken
from the remains of
a powerful dragon.
Radiating a sense of
power and strength,
the trophy is a power-
ful symbol of victory
in the hands of those
who seek to intimidate
others.
Reckless Ruby
Each creature entering or starting its turn in the room
displaying the Reckless Ruby is charmed, granting them
advantage on their attack rolls as long as another friendly
creature is present in the room.

When in this room, The Ironfang Tribe receive an additio-

nal die (for a total of 3) when they roll with advantage and
still taking the highest roll.

Description: This
bright red stone was
created by a group
of dwarves known
for their love of battle
and their disregard for
their own safety. The
ruby glows with an intense
energy, making it appear as
though it is on fire. It is said
to imbue those who hold it
with a fierce determination and
a reckless abandon in battle.

63
Cold Sapphire Inspiring Flag
Each creature entering or starting its turn in the room Any creature within the
displaying the Cold Sapphire has its speed reduced by 10 chamber displaying the
feet. Additionally, any spell or ranged attack deals 1d10 Inspiring Flag can use
cold damage to its target until the start of their a free hand to carry the
next turn. flag as a free action.

Description: This deep blue Once wielded, it allows the

stone was created by a power- creature to use its Bonus
ful sorcerer who sought to action to give an inspiration die
harness the power of ice (1d6) to one willing creature that
and cold and infused The is in the same room. When held by The
Cold Sapphire with the Arcane Insurgents, they grant creatures 1d10
essence of a powerful ele- instead.
mental being. When you
hold the stone it thrums Any ranged attack has advantage when targeting the
with icy power and gives wielder of the flag. Once the wielder is dead, the flag falls
you the feeling that you on the floor and can then be carried by another creature
could command the ele- on its turn.
ments themselves.
Description: The Inspiring Flag is a symbol of unity and
Magical Decoy Chest solidarity, and it is said to bring victory to those who carry
it in battle. Created by a group of warriors who sought to
When a support or area spellcaster hero enters a room rally their allies in arms, the flag is adorned with symbols
storing the Magical Decoy Chest, they must roll a DC of courage and strength which imbues any who carry it
15 Wisdom save. On a failure, that creature moves to with a sense of purpose and determination.
the center of the room and attempts to open the magic
chest... without success. Any support or area spellcaster Jeweled Egg
hero attempting to open the chest will be unable to cast a
tiered spell until the end of their turn. While in the confines of the room hosting a Jeweled Egg,
whenever a creature successfully damages one or more
A hero will not risk approaching the chest if doing so other creatures with an attack, one additional random
would trigger an attack of opportunity, but will not he- creature present in the room is also targeted with a dupli-
sitate to move towards the chest as soon as they are no cate of the attack.
longer in any danger of provoking such an attack.
Target creature must make a DC 15 Dexterity saving
Description: Casters who spy the Magical Decoy Chest throw as the attack materializes and on a failure, the
are lulled in with a vision of ancient arcane symbols, creature will suffer the exact same amount and type of
nearly finished powerful spells, or reality-warping magic damage as the initial attack.
formulas swirling through the air around the open chest,
before disappearing inside with a solid clunk of the lid Description: This stunning and
and lock. intricately crafted Jeweled
Egg exudes an ethereal
Created by a group of rogue thieves who sought to shroud of magic that
outsmart their mage rivals and gain an edge in their radiates with a brilliant
heists, the Magical Decoy Chest has been enchanted to speckled light. Expertly
lure spellcasters into a trap to waste their carved with intricate
time and energy. Said to details and imbued with
be cursed, blocking any deadly power, it bears
chance of opening it, any the inscription: an egg
spellcaster who touches for an egg.
the chest is doomed to
bring about bad luck
upon themselves.

64
Created by a skilled and powerful enchanter, it was Statue of
meant to serve as a symbol of protection in the heat of Unfairness
battle despite its delicate and enchanting appearance.
The bewitching light of the egg, along with its remarkable When situated, the
defensive capabilities, make it a treasure to be reckoned Statue of Unfairness
with so it is highly coveted by those seeking to make a dominates the room it is
lasting impression on allies and enemies alike… in, causing all creatures
within the room to gain
disadvantage on Dexte-
Blinding Chandelier Lamp rity saving throws and
ability checks.
Upon placing the Blinding Chandelier
Lamp in a room, it begins to emit Additionally, all attacks
slow, undulating waves of magical made against creatures
darkness that fill the space. Upon in the room are made
first entering the room a creature with advantage.
is immediately Blinded until the
end of their turn. The Brimstone Description: This statue was created by a powerful
Legion are immune to this effect. warlord who sought to give himself an advantage in
battle. The statue is said to be imbued with the power of
Description: Said to be infused unfairness, and it is rumored that those who stand near it
with the power of a demonic will find themselves at a disadvantage.
shadow plane, the Blinding
Chandelier Lamp was created by Glass Shoe
a powerful warlock who sought to
control demons. Any who stand within Each creature entering or starting its turn in the room
the lamp’s light are said to be consumed where that Glas Shoe has been placed cannot hide this
by the darkness it emits, so the chandelier is turn, as every step makes noise.
best used as a tool of fear and domination, bringing terror
to those who dare draw closer.. Additionally, if a creature falls prone, the jagged edges of
the glass inflict an extra 1d6 slashing damage. Thanks to
Demonic Statuette their psychic abilities, the Tentacles of Torment gain an
extra 1d6 whenever they damage a creature situated in
When placed in a room, the Demonic Statuette emits an the room.
aura causing any creature that starts its turn in the room
to make a DC 15 Wisdom saving throw or spend its reac- Description: Crafted by a paranoid en-
tion to attack an allied creature in range. chantress who sought to protect herself
from potential intruders, the Glass
Description: This demonic statuette was created by a Shoe is imbued with stone ma-
powerful demon prince as a tool for spreading fear and gic, causing it to spray crystals
terror. Its faint but pervasive aura of evil fills a room across the ground that emit
with an ominous feeling and over enough time is said to a clanging sound with
instill madness in even the bravest of creatures, making every step taken by those
it an ideal tool for chaos and who enter a room.
destruction.
Delicate and sparkling,
the high-heeled shoe has
been crafted from a single
piece of perfectly clear glass
but is surprisingly sturdy and able to withstand a great deal
of weight, despite its fragile appearance. Despite its beauty,
the faint, ethereal glow exudes a sense of unease, as if it
holds some dangerous secret within its crystal depths.

65
Recruiting Monsters
& Henchmen
Some recruits can be paid with gold, while others can be
persuaded with skills. However the method, recruiting
Monsters and Henchmen for your base is imperative to
ensure its safety and defense while you’re out adventuring
or deploying your schemes.
Paying with gold is a simple and straightforward way to
hire recruits who are motivated by wealth or who have
no strong loyalty to anyone. However, it can also be an
expensive method if recruiting multiple henchmen at
once or for those that know their worth! Persuading with
ability skills is a more complex and subtle way to hire
recruits who are impressed by the organization’s reputa-
tion or who share its goals. It’s not without its downsides
as it can be time-consuming and challenging. Especially
as some recruits may require proof of the organization’s
competence or commitment before joining.
Recruiting with Gold
Player characters will assume a new role as a lieutenant
or a leader of their own organization using their cunning
(and coin!) to hire powerful allies and form a team that
can face any threat. Gold is crucial in this section, as PCs
will need to spend it to acquire or persuade allies with
special skills and abilities. Some allies may be smart and
independent, while others may be beasts or monsters
more apt to obey the orders of their masters.
For those monstrous allies that are not very smart,
players may need to look for other ways to convince them.
Maybe a band of hunters specializes in trapping and tra-
ding rare and dangerous creatures, or maybe a wandering
circus is willing to part with some of their more bizarre at-
tractions. In any case, players will need to use their assets
and their imagination in order to obtain these formidable
friends and add them to their organization.
Examples of payment may include:
• One-time payment (such as when purchasing a
monstrous beast)
• Payment by the day based on skill (similar to hiring
hirelings)
• Payment via gems, items, artifacts
• Barter with other items of value (such as offering a
Goblin 100 shiny beetles)
When the party recruits with gold, PCs get to choose one
ally from three creatures of the same Challenge Rating.
They can pick the ally that suits their defense strategy and
organization best.
66
Recruiting with Skills
When gold won’t do, Players can use a specific skill to
charm, coerce, or otherwise sway potential allies to join
their organization. Each potential recruit has one skill
that they are vulnerable to resulting in easier recruitment.
Motivate players to be inventive in their recruitment
strategies, and to use a range of skills to accomplish their
objectives.
As the DM you can pick a skill that best fits with the NPC/
recruit or choose from the following table to determine
which skill. If players take their time speaking to the re-
cruit, the PCs could learn which skill would be best or by
rolling a DC 13 Insight check to understand their motiva-
tions and intentions.
If a player rejects the randomly selected skill and wishes
to choose a different skill instead, you can grant advan-
tage to the roll or lower the DC for clever skill usage, or
impose disadvantage on their roll or increase the DC
needed to succeed. This is to challenge players to think
outside the box and use the skills they may not usually
depend on.
Roll Skill
1 Persuasion: The player can use their charisma
to convince potential recruits to join their orga-
nization. This could involve making promises of
wealth, power, or prestige, or appealing to the
recruit’s personal motivations or beliefs.
2 Intimidation: If the player prefers a more forceful
approach, they could use intimidation to recruit
henchmen. This could involve threats or displays
of violence, or using the player’s reputation or
resources to intimidate potential recruits into
joining.
3 Deception: If the player needs to keep the true
nature of their organization hidden, they could
use deception to recruit henchmen. This could
involve disguising the true purpose of the organi-
zation, or using false promises or flattery to lure
recruits in.
4 Arcana: The player could use their magical
abilities to demonstrate their own prowess and
attract individuals who are interested in develo-
ping their own magical skills. By offering to share
their knowledge, resources, or protection against
magical threats, the player can recruit individuals
who are motivated by the desire to learn more
about magic or to protect themselves against
magical dangers.
5 History: The player could use their knowledge
of past events and influential figures to recruit
individuals who share their cause. They could
appeal to the potential recruits’ sense of tradition,
or offer them the chance to be part of a legacy of
great deeds and accomplishments.
6 Nature: The player could use their knowledge of
the natural world to recruit individuals who have
lost their animals, are in need of assistance in
caring for their animals or tracking an animal.
7 Religion: The player could use their knowledge
of religious beliefs and practices to recruit indivi-
duals who share their faith. They could appeal to
the potential recruits’ sense of duty, or offer them
the chance to serve a higher power by joining the
organization.
8 Medicine: The player could use their knowledge
of medicine and healing to treat an individual
who has suffered injuries or illnesses, or who has
loved ones who are suffering.
9 Performance: Perfect for those enthalled by
legends, the player spins tales of daring, intrigue,
suspense, or woe to enrapture individuals to their
cause. This could appeal to the overly theatric,
the starry-eyed or those wanting to take part in
creating a new legend.
10 Survival: Tracking down talent can mean more
than boots to pavement, it could lead a skilled
player to track or hunt their next ally. By mana-
ging to locate a wily assassin or by following the
nearly-hidden tracks left behind, the party could
attain a skilled accomplice.
Creature CR DC to roll
1/2 11
1 13
2 15
3 17
Recruiting Costs &
Gold Allowance
As a Dungeon Master, it is important to ensure that
players have the resources they need to develop their
organizations. This money can be used to purchase equip-
ment, hire henchmen, or invest in other resources that
will help players achieve their goals. By allowing players
to accumulate wealth in this way, you can create a more
immersive and engaging experience that allows players to
truly become the masters of their own destiny.
To that end, we recommend offering more money than
usually available in other campaigns as they have to
recruit some henchmen and maintain a base using this
wealth. Below we have provided two tables to assist in
this: Suggested Recruiting Cost by CR and Suggested
Organizational Costs by Tier.
As always, it is important to maintain balance and ensure
that players are not becoming too rich and powerful too
quickly. By working with your players and staying flexible,
you can create a game that is both challenging and rewar-
ding for everyone involved.
Suggested Recruitment Cost

Monster CR One-time Recruit Cost (gp)

Reason Roll Bonus 1/2 250
The henchman is in danger or indeb- 2 1 1000
ted to someone else
2 4000
The henchman is impressed by the 2
3 16000
organization’s reputation or achieve-
ment
Suggested Organizational Costs by Tier
The henchman is friendly to the orga- 1
nization
Organization Tier Additional Currency for
The henchman has a chaotic nature -1 Organizational Costs (gp)
The henchman has a personal risk in -2 1 1250
joining the organization
2 4000
The henchman belongs to a group -3
3 6000
that was harmed by the organization
4 7000

Divide by the number of party members if you give curren-

cy individually

67
Monsters and Henchmen
Juvenile Norker
Small goblinoid, chaotic evil
All monsters and henchmen found here have been se-
parated into specific groups, or clans, as they synergize Armor Class 15 (Leather and Shield)
together during base defense or with particular Lair Arte- Hit Points 17(5d6)
facts which may grant bonuses to certain clans. Speed 30 ft.

The Ironfang Tribe STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA

8 (-1) 14(+2) 11 (+0) 8 (-1) 8 (-1) 7 (-2)
Cave Hobgoblin
Medium goblinoid, neutral evil Skills Athletics +3
Senses Passive Perception 9
Armor Class 11 Languages Goblin
Hit Points 19 (3d8 +64) Challenge 1/2 (100 XP)
Speed 30 ft.
Nimble Escape. The norker can take the Disengage or
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA Hide action as a bonus action on each of its turns.

14(+2) 12(+1) 15 (+2) 9 (-1) 8 (-1) 6 (-2) Actions

Multiattack. The norker makes one shortsword and
Skills Athletics +5, Perception +2, Stealth +4 one bite attack.
Condition Immunities Blinded Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
Senses Blindsight 30 ft. (blind beyond this radius), target. Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) piercing damage.
Passive Perception 12 Shortsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach
Languages Goblin, Undercommon 5 ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) slashing damage plus
Challenge 1/2 (100 XP) 3(1d6 poison).

Blind Senses. The hobgoblin can’t use its blindsight

while deafened and unable to smell.

Actions
Flame Club. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5
ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) piercing damage and 7
(2d6) fire damage.
Shortbow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, range
80/320 ft., one target. Hit: 4 (1d6 + 1) piercing damage
and 3 (1d6) poison damage.

68
Tamed Worg
Large monstrosity, neutral evil
Goblin Alchemist
Armor Class 13 (Natural Armor) Small goblinoid, chaotic evil
Hit Points 26 (4d10 + 4)
Speed 50 ft. Armor Class 13 (Leather)
Hit Points 17 (5d6)
Speed 30 ft.
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA

16 (+3) 13 (+1) 13 (+1) 7 (-2) 11(+0) 8 (-1) STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
8 (-1) 16 (+3) 10 (+0) 10 (+0) 8 (-1) 8 (-1)
Skills Perception + 4
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 14 Skills Stealth + 5
Languages understands Goblin but cannot speak Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 9
Challenge 1/2 (100 XP) Languages Common, Goblin
Challenge 1 (200 XP)
Keen Hearing and Smell. The worg has advantage on
Wisdom (Perception) checks that rely on hearing or Nimble Escape. The goblin can take the Disengage or
smell. Hide action as a bonus action on each of its turns.
Prestige Mount. The worg is a terrifying and loyal
mount, known for its ferocity in battle. When a rider Actions
mounts the worg, they are granted advantage on all at- Scimitar. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
tack rolls. The worg has the same initiative as its rider. one target. Hit: 6 (1d6 + 3) slashing damage + 4 (1d8)
poison damage.
Actions Poison Sack. Ranged Weapon Attack: Range 25 ft.,
Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one Each creature in a 5-foot-radius sphere centered on
target. Hit: 10 (2d6 + 3) piercing damage. If the target that point must make a DC 13 Dexterity saving throw
is a medium or small creature, it must succeed on a DC suffering 10 (3d6) poison damage on failed save, or
13 Strength saving throw or be knocked prone. half on a successful one.

69
 Hobgoblin Guard
Medium goblinoid, lawful evil

Armor Class 14 (Scalemail)

Hit Points 27 (5d8 + 5)
Speed 30 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA

13 (+1) 12 (+1) 12 (+1) 10 (+0) 10 (+0) 9 (-1)

Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 10

Languages Common, Goblin
Challenge 1 (200 XP)

Martial Advantage. Once per turn, the hobgoblin can

deal an extra 10 (3d6) damage to a creature it hits
with a weapon attack if that creature is within 5 feet
of an ally of the hobgoblin that isn’t incapacitated.

Actions
Longsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach
5 ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d8 + 1) piercing damage. If
used with two hands, the damage is 6 (1d10 + 1).
Longbow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, range
150/600 ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d8 + 1) piercing
damage.

Brutal Bugbear
Medium goblinoid, chaotic evil
Ogre
Armor Class 13 (Hide) Large goblinoid, chaotic evil
Hit Points 27 (5d8 + 5)
Speed 30 ft. Armor Class 10 (Leather)
Hit Points 51 (6d10 + 18)
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA Speed 40 ft.
15 (+2) 12 (+1) 16 (+3) 8 (-1) 11 (+0) 9 (-1)
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
Skills Stealth + 6, Survival +2 19 (+4) 8 (-1) 16 (+3) 5(-3) 7 (-2) 7 (-2)
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 10
Languages Common, Goblin Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 8
Challenge 1 (200 XP) Languages Common, Goblin
Challenge 2 (450 XP)
Vicious. Whenever the bugbear hits a prone creature
it inflicts an extra 7(2d6) piercing damage. Actions
Spiked Greatclub. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit,
Actions reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 13 (2d8 + 4) bludgeoning
Morningstar. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach damage and 4 (1d8) piercing damage.If the target is a
5 ft., one target. Hit: 11 (2d8 + 2) piercing and 7 (2d6) creature, it must succeed on a DC 14 Strength saving
poison damage. throw or be knocked prone.

70
Orc Battlecrier Old Troll
Medium goblinoid, chaotic evil Large goblinoid, chaotic evil

Armor Class 16 (Chainmail) Armor Class 12 (Natural Armor)

Hit Points 30 (4d8 + 12) Hit Points 51 (6d10 + 18)
Speed 30 ft. Speed 30 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
16 (+3) 12 (+1) 16 (+3) 11(+0) 11 (+0) 16(+3) 18 (+4) 13 (+1) 16(+3) 7(-2) 9 (-1) 7(-2)

Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 10 Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 12
Languages Common, Goblin, Orc Languages Common, Goblin
Challenge 2 (450 XP) Challenge 3 (700 XP)

Assault. One living creature the battlecrier can see Lesser Regeneration. The troll regains 10 hit points
within 10 ft. can use its reaction to move 10 ft. and at the start of its turn, or they regain 5 hit points if it
make a melee attack. was dealt any damage in the previous round.

Actions
Greataxe. Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
one target. Hit: 8 (1d10 + 3) slashing damage and 3
(1d6) poison damage.
Actions
Multiattack. The troll makes three attacks.
Claw. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
target. Hit: 11 (2d6 + 4) slashing damage.
Stones. Ranged Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, range
30/90 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d6 + 4) bludgeonning
damage.

71
The Arcane Insurgents

Young Apprentice Enlarged Dark Dwarf

Medium humanoid (any race), lawful neutral Large humanoid, lawful evil

Armor Class 12 Armor Class 15 (Chain Shirt and Shield)

Hit Points 19 (3d8 + 6) Hit Points 26 (4d10 + 4)
Speed 30 ft. Speed 25 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
11 (+0) 14 (+2) 10 (+0) 14 (+2) 11 (+0) 10 (+0) 14 (+2) 11 (+0) 12 (+1) 11 (+0) 10 (+0) 9 (-1)

Skills Arcana +2, Deception +2 Damage Resistances Poison

Senses Passive Perception 10 Senses Darkvision 120 ft., Passive Perception 10
Languages Common Languages Common, Dwarf, Undercommon
Challenge 1/2 (50 XP) Challenge 1/2 (100 XP)

Devotion. The apprentice has advantage on saving Dark Resilience. The dark dwarf has advantage on
throws against spells. saving throws against poison and spells.

Actions
Scimitar. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
one target. Hit: 4 (1d6 + 1) slashing damage.
Fire Blast. Ranged Magic Attack: +4 to hit, range
80/320 ft., one target. Hit: 11 (2d10) fire damage.
Actions
War Pick. Melee Weapon Attack: +3 to hit, reach 5
ft., one target. Hit: 11 (2d8 + 2) piercing damage.

72
Guard
Medium humanoid, lawful neutral

Armor Class 15 (Studded Leather and Shield)

Hit Points 16 (3d8 + 3)
Speed 30 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA

14 (+2) 14 (+2) 12 (+1) 10 (+0) 10 (+0) 10 (+0)

Senses Passive Perception 10

Languages Common
Challenge 1/2 (100 XP)

Actions
Multiattack. The guard makes two longsword attacks
or two light crossbow attacks.
Longsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5
ft., one target. Hit: 6 (1d8 + 2) slashing damage.
Light Crossbow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +4 to hit,
range 80/320 ft., one target. Hit: 6 (1d8 + 2) piercing
damage.

Apprentice assassin
Medium humanoid, lawful neutral

Armor Class 14 (Leather)

Young Priest
Medium humanoid, lawful neutral
Hit Points 22 (4d8+4)
Speed 40 ft.
Armor Class 15 (Chain Shirt and Shield)
Hit Points 22 (4d8 + 4)
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA Speed 30 ft.
13 (+1) 16 (+3) 12 (+1) 8 (-1) 10 (+0) 10 (+0)
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
Senses Blindsight 10 ft., Passive Perception 10
10 (+0) 11 (+0) 12 (+1) 14 (+2) 14 (+2) 14 (+2)
Languages Common, Infernal
Challenge 1 (250 XP)
Senses Passive Perception 12
Languages Common
Sneak Attack (1/Turn). Once per turn, the assassin
Challenge 1 (250 XP)
deals an extra 10 (3d6) damage when it hits a target
with a weapon attack and has advantage on the attack
Spellcasting. The priest is a 2nd-level spellcaster. Its
roll, or when the target is within 5 feet of an ally of
spellcasting ability is Wisdom (spell save DC 13, +5
the assassin that isn’t incapacitated and the assassin
to hit with spell attacks). The priest has the following
doesn’t have disadvantage on the attack roll.
cleric spells prepared:
Cantrips (at will): sacred flame
Actions 1st level (3 slots): Heroism, guiding bolt, bless
Rapier. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
one target. Hit: 7 (1d8 + 3) slashing damage.

73
Henchman
Medium humanoid (any race), lawful neutral

Armor Class 16 (Chain Mail)

Hit Points 22 (4d8 + 4)
Speed 30 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA

14 (+2) 14 (+2) 12 (+1) 10 (+0) 10 (+0) 10 (+0)

Senses Passive Perception 10

Languages Common
Challenge 1 (250 XP)

Actions
Multiattack. The henchman makes two melee at-
tacks when attacking with its Longsword.
Longsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5
ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d10 + 2) slashing damage.
Heavy Crossbow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +5 to hit,
range 100/400 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d10 + 2) pier-
cing damage. Rockskin Golem
Large construct, neutral evil
Reactions
Parry. The henchman adds 2 to its AC against one Armor Class (Natural armor: 15 in moving form,
melee attack that would hit it. To do so, it must see 20 in defensive stance)
the attacker and be wielding a melee weapon. Hit Points 58(9d10 + 18)
Speed 15 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA

18 (+4) 10 (+0) 15 (+2) 8 (-1) 10 (+0) 9 (-1)

Immunities Acid, Cold, Fire, Poison

Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 9
Languages Understands the languages of its creator
but can’t speak
Challenge 2 (450 XP)

Magic Resistance. The golem has the advantage

of saving throws against spells and other magical
effects.
Defensive Stance. The golem can turn himself as
an immovable object that blocks doors or passages.
While in this stance, the golem cannot move or use
any action.

Actions
Ground Stomp. Any creature within 5 ft. of the golem
must make a DC 14 Dexterity saving throw suffering
10 (3d6) bludgeoning damage on a failed throw, or
half on a successful one.

74
Champion
Medium humanoid (any race), lawful evil

Armor Class 18 (Plate)

Hit Points 33 (6d8 + 6)
Speed 30 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA

16 (+3) 14 (+2) 12 (+1) 10 (+0) 12 (+1) 14 (+2)

Senses Passive Perception 11

Languages Common
Challenge 2 (400 XP)

Leader. The champion can spend its reaction to

make a willing creature reroll a saving throw

Actions
Multiattack. The champion makes two melee attacks
when attacking with its greatsword.
Greatsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5
ft., one target. Hit: 10 (2d6 + 3) slashing damage.
Heavy Crossbow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +5 to hit,
range 100/400 ft., one target. Hit: 8 (1d10 + 2) pier-
cing damage.

Blue Mage
Medium humanoid (any race), lawful neutral

Armor Class 15 (Mage Armor)

Hit Points 40 (9d8)
Speed 30 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA

10 (+0) 14 (+2) 10 (+0) 16 (+3) 14 (+2) 14 (+2)

Senses Passive Perception 12

Languages Common
Challenge 3 (700 XP)

Spellcasting. The mage is a 5th-level spellcaster.

Its spellcasting ability is Wisdom (spell save DC 14,
+6 to hit with spell attacks). The Blue Mage has the
following wizard spells prepared:
Cantrips (at will): fire bolt, light, mage hand,
1st level (4 slots): mage armor, magic missile,
shield
2nd level (3 slots): misty step, shatter.

75
Nature’s Wrath
Young Grizzly
Medium beast, chaotic neutral
Faunus
Medium fiend, chaotic neutral Armor Class 11 (Natural Armor)
Hit Points 19 (3d8 + 6)
Armor Class 14 (Leather) Speed 40 ft., swim 30 ft.
Hit Points 31 (7d8)
Speed 40 ft. STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
15 (+2) 10(+0) 14 (+2) 2 (-4) 12 (+1) 7 (-2)
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
12 (+1) 16 (+3) 11 (+0) 12 (+1) 10 (+0) 14 (+2) Senses Passive Perception 13
Challenge 1/2 (100 XP)
Skills Perception +2, Performance +6, Stealth +5
Senses Passive Perception 12 Keen Smell. The bear has advantage on Wisdom
Languages Sylvan (Perception) checks that rely on smell.
Challenge 1/2 (100 XP)
Actions
Charger. If the faunus moves at least 10 feet in a Multiattack. The bear makes two attacks: one with
straight line towards a target and successfully hits it its bite and one with its claws.
with a ram attack on the same turn, the target takes Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
an extra 5 (2d4) piercing damage and is pushed up to target. Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) piercing damage.
5 feet away. Claws. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
one target. Hit: 7 (2d4 + 2) slashing damage.
Actions
Ram. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
target. Hit: 6 (1d6 + 3) bludgeoning damage.
Shortbow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, range
80/320 ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) piercing da-
mage.

76
Giant Cobra Fast Naga
Medium beast, neutral Medium humanoid, chaotic evil

Armor Class 14 Armor Class 15 (Broken Armor)

Hit Points 17 (3d8 + 3) Hit Points 30 (4d8 + 12)
Speed 30 ft., swim 30 ft. Speed 40 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
10 (+0) 18 (+4) 12 (+1) 2 (-4) 10 (+0) 3 (-4) 16 (+3) 12(+1) 16 (+3) 13 (+1) 14 (+2) 8 (-1)

Senses Blindsight 10 ft., Passive Perception 12 Damage Resistance Poison

Challenge 1/2 (100 XP)
Actions
Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 10 ft.,
one target. Hit: 6 (1d4 + 4) piercing damage, and the
target must make a DC 12 Constitution saving throw,
taking 13 (4d6) poison damage on a failed save, or
half as much damage on a successful one.
Senses Blindsight 10 ft., Passive Perception 12
Languages Sylvan
Challenge 1 (200 XP)
Spellcasting. The naga is a 3rd-level spellcaster. Its
spellcasting ability is Wisdom (spell save DC 12, +4 to
hit with spell attacks), and it needs only verbal com-
ponents to cast its spells. It has the following cleric
spells prepared:
1st level (3 slots): heroism, shield of faith
2nd level (2 slots): hold person

Actions
Poison Fangs. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach
5 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d6 + 3) piercing damage plus
7 (2d6) poison damage.

77
 Manticore Hippo
Medium monstrosity, neutral evil

Armor Class 11 (Natural Armor)

Hit Points 33 (6d8 + 6)
Speed 40 ft., swim 30 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA

17 (+3) 12 (+1) 13 (+1) 7 (-2) 7 (-2) 8 (-1)

Skills Stealth +3
Senses Darkvision, Passive Perception 11
Languages Common
Challenge 1 (700 XP)

Actions
Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
target. Hit: 10 (2d6 + 3) piercing damage. If the target
is a medium or small creature, it must succeed on a
DC 13 Strength saving throw or be knocked prone.
Tail. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 10 ft.,
one target. Hit: 7 (1d8 + 3) piercing damage + 7 (2d6)
poison damage.

Young Minotaur
Large monstrosity, chaotic evil

Armor Class 13 (Natural Armor)

Hit Points 39 (6d10 + 6) Treant Sprout
Speed 40 ft. Medium plant, neutral

Armor Class 11 (Natural Armor)

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA Hit Points 52(8d10 + 16)
17 (+3) 15 (+2) 15 (+2) 8 (-1) 12 (+1) 8 (-1) Speed 20 ft.

Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 15 STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
Languages Common
Challenge 1 (200 XP) 17 (+3) 6 (-2) 15 (+2) 10 (+0) 12 (+1) 8 (-1)

Charger. If the Minotaur moves at least 10 feet in a Damage Resistances Bludgeoning, Piercing damage
straight line towards a target and successfully hits it Damage Vulnerabilities Fire
with a gore attack on the same turn, the target takes Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 11
an extra 7 (2d6) piercing damage and is pushed up to Languages Common, Sylvan
10 feet away. Challenge 2 (400 XP)

Actions
Greataxe. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
one target. Hit: 14 (2d10 + 3) slashing damage.
Gore. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
target. Hit: 10 (2d6 + 3) piercing damage.
Actions
Slam. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
one target. Hit: 17 (4d6 + 3) bludgeoning damage.
Rock. Ranged Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, range 30/90
ft., one target. Hit: 10 (3d4 + 3) bludgeoning damage.

78
Elven Druid Young Hydra
Medium humanoid, neutral Large monstrosity, unaligned

Armor Class 11 (16 with barkskin) Armor Class 13 (Natural Armor)

Hit Points 27 (5d8 + 5) Hit Points 49 (9d10)
Speed 30 ft. Speed 30 ft., swim 30 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
15 (+2) 14 (+2) 13 (+1) 10 (+0) 14 (+2) 8 (-1) 14 (+2) 12 (+1) 11 (+0) 9 (-1) 12 (+1) 10 (+0)

Skills Medicine +4, Nature +3, Perception +4 Skills Perception +6

Senses Passive Perception 14
Languages Common, Sylvan
Challenge 2 (450 XP)
Spellcasting. The druid is a 3rd-level spellcaster. Its
spellcasting ability is Wisdom (spell save DC 12, +4 to
hit with spell attacks). It has the following druid spells
prepared:
1st level (3 slots): entangle, longstrider,
thunderwave
2nd level (2 slots): barkskin
Emergency Shapechange (1/day). When the druid
reaches 0 HP, they transform into a giant cobra.
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 12
Challenge 3 (700 XP)
Regenerative Growth. The hydra starts with three
heads. Whenever the hydra takes 15 or more damage
in a single turn, it grows one extra head and regains 7
HP at the end of its next turn.
Actions
Multiattack. The hydra makes as many bite attacks
as it has heads.
Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
target. Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) piercing damage.

Actions
Sling. Ranged Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, range
30/120 ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) bludgeoning
damage.

79
Tentacles of Torment

Flying Eyeball Enlightened Helot

Medium aberration, chaotic evil Medium humanoid, chaotic evil

Armor Class 12 Armor Class 14 (Leather)

Hit Points 17 (4d8) Hit Points 22 (5d8)
Speed Fly 30 ft. Speed 30 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
2 (-4) 15 (+2) 10 (+0) 15 (+2) 14 (+2) 6 (-2) 10 (+0) 16 (+3) 10 (+0) 13 (+1) 13 (+1) 10 (+0)

Damage vulnerabilities Piercing Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 10

Condition Immunities Charmed Languages Common
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 10 Challenge 1/2 (100 XP)
Challenge 1/2 (100 XP)
Actions
Actions Empathic Dagger. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit,
Ray of Fear. Ranged Spell Attack: +4 to hit, range 30 reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 5(1d4 + 3) slashing da-
ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) psychic damage and mage plus 7 (2d6) psychic damage.
the target must succeed on a DC 11 Wisdom saving
throw or be frightened for 1 round.

Charmed Splint
Medium construct, unaligned

Armor Class 17 (Splint)

Hit Points 27 (5d8 + 5)
Speed 25 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA

14 (+2) 10 (+0) 12 (+1) 1 (-5) 1 (-5) 1 (-5)

Damage Immunities Poison, Psychic

Condition Immunities Blinded, Charmed, Deafened,
Exhaustion, Frightened, Paralyzed, Petrified, Poi-
soned
Senses Blindsight 60 ft., Passive Perception 5
Challenge 1/2 (100 XP)

Antimagic Vulnerability. The armor becomes inca-

pacitated while in the area of an antimagic field. If
targeted by dispel magic, the armor must succeed on
a Constitution saving throw against the caster’s spell
save DC or fall unconscious for 1 minute.

Actions
Slam. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
one target. Hit: 6 (1d8 + 2) bludgeoning damage.

80
 Aggressive Harpy
Medium monstrosity, chaotic evil

Armor Class 11 (Natural Armor)

Hit Points 27 (7d8)
Speed 20 ft., fly 40 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA

12 (+1) 13 (+1) 10 (+0) 7 (-2) 10 (+0) 13 (+1)

Senses Passive Perception 10

Languages Undercommon
Challenge 1 (200 XP)

Actions
Claws. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
one target. Hit: 11 (3d6 + 1) slashing damage.
Psychic Call. Ranged Magic Attack: +5 to hit, range
Enslaved Horn 40 ft., one target. Hit: 8 (2d6 + 1) psychic damage.
Large monstrosity, chaotic evil
Target hit by this attack must then succeed on a DC
13 Charisma save or be forced to move 10 ft. towards
Armor Class 15 (Natural Armor)
the harpy.
Hit Points 38 (4d10 + 16)
Speed 30 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA

16 (+3) 10 (+0) 18 (+4) 9 (-1) 12 (+1) 9(-1)

Senses Passive Perception 11

Languages Common
Challenge 1 (200 XP)

Charger. If the enslaved horn moves at least 10 feet

straight toward a target and then hits it with a gore
attack on the same turn, the target takes an extra 7
(2d6) piercing damage and is pushed up to 10 feet
away.

Actions
Gore. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
target. Hit: 9 (2d4 + 3) piercing damage. If the target
is a creature, it must succeed on a DC 13 Strength
saving throw or be knocked prone.

Reaction
Tough Skin (1/day). The enslaved horn can bear the
brunt of incoming damage, gaining resistance against
Slashing and Bludgeoning damage until the end of
their next turn.

81
Psychic Mimic
Medium monstrosity, chaotic evil

Armor Class 12 (Natural Armor)

Hit Points 27 (7d8)
Speed 20 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA

17 (+3) 10(+0) 10(+0) 14 (+2) 14(+2) 10(+0)

Condition Immunities Prone

Senses Passive Perception 12
Languages Common, Telepathy 60 ft.
Challenge 1 (200 XP)

Shapechanger. The mimic can use its action to poly-

morph into an object or back into its true, amorphous
form. Its statistics are the same in each form. Any
equipment it is wearing or carrying isn’t transformed.
It reverts to its true form if it dies.
Grappler. The mimic has advantage on attack rolls
against any creature grappled by it.

Actions Slimy Mouther

Pseudopod. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach Medium aberration, chaotic evil
5 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d8 + 3) bludgeoning damage
and the target is grappled (escape DC 14). Armor Class 9
Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one Hit Points 52 (7d8 + 21)
target. Hit: 7 (1d8 + 3) piercing damage plus 4 (1d8) Speed 20 ft.
psychic damage.
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
10 (+0) 9(-1) 16(+3) 14 (+2) 16(+3) 10(+0)

Condition Immunities Prone

Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 12
a2 (450 XP)

Slimy Ground. The ground in a 10-foot radius around

the Slimy Mouther is slimy. Each creature that enters
or starts its turn in that area must succeed on a DC
10 Strength saving throw or have its Speed reduced
to 0 until the start of its next turn.

Actions
Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
creature. Hit: 17 (5d6) piercing damage.
Confusing Spittle. Ranged Weapon Attack: +6 to hit,
range 15/30 ft. Hit: 7 (1d8 + 3) acid damage and the
target must succeed on a DC 10 Intelligence saving
throw or immediately spend its reaction to attack an
ally if they can.

82
Lesser Tyrant
Medium aberration, neutral evil

Armor Class 14 (Natural Armor)

Hit Points 27 (5d8 + 5)
Speed Fly 30 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA

8(-1) 14(+2) 12(+1) 12 (+1) 14(+2) 10(+0)

Skills Perception +6
Condition Immunities Prone
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 12
Languages Undercommon, Telepathy 120 ft.
Challenge 2 (450 XP)

Actions
Multiattack. The tyrant makes two attacks, and must
use two different rays.
Ray of confusion. Ranged Spell Attack: +6 to hit,
range 15/30 ft. Hit: 7 (1d8 + 3) psychic damage and
the target must succeed on a DC 10 Intelligence sa-
Cephaloid
Medium aberration, neutral evil
ving throw or immediately spend its reaction to attack
an ally if they can.
Armor Class 13 (Natural Armor)
Ray of Fear. Ranged Spell Attack: +6 to hit, range
Hit Points 36 (6d8 + 6)
15/30 ft. Hit: 7 (1d8 + 3) psychic damage and the tar-
Speed 30ft.
get must succeed on a DC 10 Wisdom saving throw
or be frightened for 1 round.
Ray of Death. Ranged Magic Attack: +6 to hit, range STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
15/30 ft. Hit: 7 (1d8 + 3) psychic damage and the 11(+0) 12(+1) 12(+1) 18 (+4) 16(+3) 16(+3)
target must succeed on a DC 13 Constitution saving
throw or take 10 (3d6) necrotic damage. Saves INT +7, WIS +6, CHA +6
Skills Arcana +6, Deception +5, Insight +5, Percep-
tion +5, Persuasion +5, Stealth +4
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 12
Languages Undercommon, Telepathy 120 ft.
Challenge 3 (700xp)

Magic Resistance. The cephaloid has advantage

on saving throws against spells and other magical
effects.

Actions
Claw. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
creature. Hit: 8 (2d6 + 1) slashing damage plus 10
(3d6) psychic damage.
Mind Bolt (1/day). The cephaloid exhales a bolt in
a 20-foot line that is 5 ft. wide. Each creature in that
line must make a DC 14 Intelligence saving throw be-
coming stunned until the end of their turn and taking
14 (3d6 + 4) psychic damage, or half as much damage
on a successful one.

83
The Restless Skeleton Fighter
Medium undead, lawful evil

Armor Class 13
Hit Points 22 (3d8 + 6)
Speed 30 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA

12 (+1) 12 (+1) 15 (+2) 6 (-2) 8 (-1) 5 (-3)

Damage Vulnerabilities Bludgeoning

Damage Immunities Poison, Necrotic
Condition Immunities Exhausted, Poisoned
Senses Blindsight 60 ft., Passive Perception 9
Challenge 1/2 (100 XP)

Actions
Multiattack. The skeleton makes two attacks.
Shortsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5
ft., one target. Hit: 4 (1d6 + 1) piercing damage.
Short Bow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, range
80/320 ft., one target. Hit: 4 (1d6 + 1) piercing da-
mage.

Lesser Ghoul Dead Walker

Medium undead, chaotic evil Medium undead, neutral evil

Armor Class 12 Armor Class 8

Hit Points 26 (6d8) Hit Points 30 (4d8 + 12)
Speed 30 ft. Speed 20 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
14 (+2) 15 (+2) 10 (+0) 7 (-2) 10 (+0) 6 (-2) 14 (+2) 6 (-2) 16 (+3) 3 (+4) 6 (-2) 5 (-3)

Damage Resistance Poison Damage Immunities Poison

Condition Immunities Charmed, Exhausted, Poi-
soned
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 10
Challenge 1/2 (100 XP)
Actions
Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
target. Hit: 9 (2d6 + 2) piercing damage.
Claw. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
target. Hit: 7 (2d4 + 2) slashing damage. The target
must succeed on a DC 13 Constitution saving throw
or become poisoned until the end of its next turn.
Condition Immunities Poisoned
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 8
Challenge 1/2 (100 XP)
Zombie Fortitude. If damage reduces the Dead
Walker to 0 hit points, it must make a DC15 Constitu-
tion saving throw unless the damage is radiant. On a
success, the zombie drops to 1 hit point instead.
Actions
Slam. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
target. Hit: 7 (2d4 + 2) bludgeoning damage.

84
Necromancer
Medium undead, chaotic evil

Armor Class 12
Hit Points 27 (6d8)
Speed 30 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA

9 (-1) 14 (+2) 11 (+0) 17 (+3) 12 (+1) 11 (+0)

Skills Arcana +6, History +6

Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 11
Languages Common
Challenge 1 (200 XP)

Spellcasting. The necromancer is a 4th-level spell-

caster. Its spellcasting ability is Intelligence (spell
save DC 13, +5 to hit with spell attacks). The necro-
mancer has the following wizard spells prepared:
Cantrips (at will): chill touch, mage hand
1st level (3 slots): false life, inflict wounds
2nd level (2 slots): blindness/deafness, ray of
enfeeblement
Poltergeist
Actions Medium undead, chaotic evil
Animate Corpse (3/day). This ability creates a dead
walker with 5 HP. from a corpse within 30 ft. It takes Armor Class 12
its turn on the necromancer’s initiative and obeys its Hit Points 22 (5d8)
orders. Speed Hover 50 ft.
Dagger. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
one target. Hit: 4 (1d4+2) piercing damage. STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
1(-5) 14 (+2) 11 (+0) 10 (+0) 10 (+0) 11 (+0)

Damage Resistances Acid, Cold, Fire, Lightning,

Thunder, Bludgeoning, Piercing and Slashing from
nonmagical attacks
Damage Immunities Necrotic, Poison
Condition Immunities Charmed, Exhausted,
Grappled, Paralyzed, Petrified, Poisoned, Prone,
Restrained and Unconscious
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 10
Challenge 1 (200 XP)

Ghostly Protection. As a bonus action, target crea-

ture gains resistance to one type of damage you
choose until it receives damage until the end of your
next turn.

Actions
Life Drain. Melee Spell Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
one target. Hit: 10 (3d6) necrotic damage and the pol-
tergeist regains hit points equal to half of the damage
inflicted.

85
Decaying Mummy Spectral Screamer
Medium undead, chaotic evil Medium undead, chaotic evil

Armor Class 11 (Natural Armor) Armor Class 12

Hit Points 38 (7d8+7) Hit Points 28 (6d8)
Speed 20 ft. Speed Fly 40 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
16 (+3) 8 (-1) 13 (+1) 6 (-2) 10 (+0) 12 (+1) 1(-5) 14 (+2) 10 (+0) 12 (+1) 11 (+0) 17 (+3)

Damage Vulnerabilities Fire Damage Resistances Acid, Fire, Lightning, Thunder;

Damage Resistances Necrotic, Poison; Bludgeoning,
Piercing and Slashing from nonmagical attacks
Condition Immunities Charmed, Exhausted, Frighte-
ned, Paralyzed, Poisoned
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 10
Challenge 1 (200 XP)
Actions
Multiattack. The mummy can use its Shocking Glare
and makes one attack with its Rotting Fist.
Rotting Fist. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach
5 ft., one target. Hit: 6 (1d6+3) bludgeoning + 7 (2d6)
necrotic damage.
Shocking Glare. The mummy targets one creature it
can see within 60 ft., forcing it to make a DC 13 Wis-
dom saving throw or become muted and blinded until
the end of its next turn.
Bludgeoning, Piercing and Slashing from nonmagical
attacks
Damage Immunities Cold, Necrotic, Poison
Condition Immunities Charmed, Exhausted, Frighte-
ned, Grappled, Paralyzed, Petrified, Poisoned, Prone
and Restrained
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 10
Challenge 2 (450 XP)
Elusive Target. This creature is difficult to target
from afar. Any ranged attacks made against it are
made with disadvantage.
Actions
Corrupting Touch. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to
hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 12 (3d6 + 2) necrotic
damage.
Scream (1/day). Target living creature within 20 ft.
must make a DC 13 Constitution saving throw, losing
half of its hit points on failure, or 7 (2d6) psychic
damage on success.

86
Revenant Lord Half Vampire
Medium undead, chaotic evil Medium undead, lawful evil

Armor Class 14 (Chain Shirt) Armor Class 16 (Natural Armor)

Hit Points 31 (7d8) Hit Points 52 (7d8+21)
Speed 30 ft. Speed 30 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
12 (+1) 11 (+0) 10 (+0) 12 (+1) 16 (+3) 18 (+4) 16 (+3) 16 (+3) 16 (+3) 11 (+0) 10 (+0) 12 (+1)

Damage Immunities Necrotic, Poison Skills Perception +3, Stealth +6

Condition Immunities Exhausted, Frightened, Poi-
soned
Senses Darkvision 120 ft., Passive Perception 13
Languages Common
Challenge 2 (450 XP)
Magic Resistance. The Revenant Lord has advantage
on saving throws against spells and other magical
effects.
Superior Presence (3/day). All undead within 30 ft.,
may roll saves to resist turn undead with advantage.
Actions
Dark Morningstar. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit,
reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d8+1) piercing and 13
(3d8) necrotic damage.
Negative Aura (1/day). Each creature within 10ft.
must make a DC 14 Constitution saving throw or take
4d6 necrotic damage on failed save.
Damage Resistances Necrotic;
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 13
Languages Common
Challenge 3 (700 XP)
Bloodlust. The vampire has advantage on damage
rolls against any creature that doesn’t have all its hit
points.
Actions
Multiattack. The Vampire makes two attacks: two
claw attacks or one claw and one bite attack.
Claw. Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
target. Hit: 10 (2d6 + 3) slashing damage or instead of
dealing damage, the Vampire can grapple the target
(escape DC 13).
Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
willing or grappled creature. Hit: 6 (1d6+3) piercing
and 10 (3d6) necrotic damage. The Vampire regains
hit points equal to the necrotic damage the victim
takes.

87
The Brimstone Legion Mad Cultist
Medium humanoid, lawful evil

Armor Class 13 (Leather)

Hit Points 9 (2d8)
Speed 30 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA

11 (+0) 12 (+1) 10 (+0) 10 (+0) 11 (+0) 10 (+0)

Skills Deception +2, Religion +2

Senses Passive Perception 10
Languages Common
Challenge: 1/2 (100 XP)

Dark Devotion. Within 30 ft., if two creatures have

died by the end of this round, a new friendly CR 1/2
fiend with 50% of its maximum HP appears on the
battlefield. If four creatures died, it is a CR 1 fiend.
The DM chooses the fiend which disappears after 1
minute.

Actions
Scimitar. Melee Weapon Attack: +3 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
one target. Hit: 4 (1d6 + 1) slashing damage.

Lesser Demon
Medium fiend, chaotic evil

Armor Class 14 (Natural Armor) Smoke Demon

Hit Points 16 (3d8 + 3) Small fiend, neutral evil
Speed 40 ft.
Armor Class 12
Hit Points 21 (6d6)
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
Speed 30 ft.
10 (+0) 10 (+0) 12 (+1) 10 (+0) 13 (+1) 7 (-2)
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
Damage Resistance Cold, Fire, Lightning
Damage Immunities Poison 6 (-2) 14 (+2) 10 (+0) 10 (+0) 10 (+0) 10 (+0)
Condition Immunities Charmed, Frightened, Poi-
soned Skill: Perception +2, Stealth +4
Senses Darkvision 120 ft., Passive Perception 9 Damage Immunities Fire, Poison
Languages Infernal Condition Immunities Poisoned
Challenge 1/2 (100 XP) Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 12
Languages Infernal
Fiendish presence. When any creature that isn’t a Challenge 1/2 (100 XP)
fiend starts its turn within 15 ft., that creature must
succeed on a DC 13 Constitution saving throw or take Death Burst. When a Smoke Demon dies, the zone
1d6 psychic damage. within 5 ft. of its corpse becomes filled with magical
Sure-Footed. The Lesser Demon has advantage on darkness that lasts the end of next turn.
Strength and Dexterity saving throws made against
effects that would knock it prone. Actions
Multiattack. The demon makes two attacks.
Actions Claws. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
Barbed Tail. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach one target. Hit: 4 (1d4 + 2) slashing damage.
10 ft., one target. Hit: 8 (1d12 + 2) piercing damage. Cinder Breath (1/day). The Smoke Demon exhales a
15 ft. cone of smoldering ash. Each creature in that
area must succeed on a DC 10 Dexterity saving throw
or be blinded until the end of the demon’s next turn.

88
Gargoylite Hellpup
Medium fiend, chaotic evil Medium fiend, lawful evil

Armor Class 13 (Natural Armor) Armor Class 15 (Natural Armor)

Hit Points 26(4d8 + 8) Hit Points 22 (4d8 + 8)
Speed 30 ft., fly 60 ft. Speed 50 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
15 (+2) 11 (+0) 16 (+3) 6 (-2) 11 (+0) 7 (+2) 15 (+2) 12 (+1) 13 (+1) 6 (-2) 13 (+1) 6 (-2)

Damage Resistances Bludgeoning, Piercing and Skills Perception +5

Slashing from nonmagical attacks not made with
adamantine weapons; Poison
Condition Immunities Exhaustion, Petrified, Poi-
soned
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 10
Challenge 1 (200 XP)
False Appearance. While the gargoylite remains
motionless, it is indistinguishable from an inanimate
statue.
Actions
Multiattack. The gargoylite makes two attacks: one
with its bite and one with its claws.
Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
target. Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) piercing damage.
Claw. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
one target. Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) slashing damage. Once
per round if the attack is successful, the gargoyle may
make an extra bite attack against a second target
within 5 ft. of the first one.
Damage Immunities Fire
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 15
Challenge 1 (200 XP)
Keen Hearing and Smell. The Hellpup has advan-
tage on Perception checks that rely on hearing or
smell.
Pack Tactics. The Hellpup has advantage on an
attack roll against a creature if at least one of its allies
is within 5 ft of the creature and the ally isn’t incapa-
citated.
Actions
Burning Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach
5 ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) piercing and 7 (2d6)
fire damage.
Fire Breath (1/day): The Hellpup exhales fire in a
15 ft. cone. Each creature in that area must make a
DC 12 Dexterity saving throw, taking 18 (4d6) fire
damage on a failed save, or half as much damage on a
successful one.

89
Poisonous Imp Fat Baron
Tiny fiend, lawful evil Large fiend, neutral evil
Armor Class 13 Armor Class 16 (Natural Armor)
Hit Points 13 (4d4 + 3) Hit Points 38 (4d10+ 16)
Speed 20 ft., fly 40 ft. Speed 30 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
6 (-2) 17 (+3) 13 (+1) 11 (+0) 12 (+1) 14 (+2)
Skills Deception +4, Insight +3, Persuasion +4,
Stealth +5
Damage Resistances Cold; Bludgeoning, Piercing
and Slashing from nonmagical attacks
Damage Immunities Fire, Poison
Condition Immunities Poisoned
Senses Blindsight 120 ft., Passive Perception 11
Languages Common, Infernal
Challenge 2 (200 XP)
Magic Resistance. The Imp has advantage on saving
throws against spells and other magical effects.
Actions
Poison Sting. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach
5 ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d4 + 3) piercing and the
target must make a DC 11 Constitution saving throw,
taking 10 (3d6) poison damage on a failed save, or
half as much damage on a successful one.
Poison Needles. (1/day) The poisonous imp claps
its wings together releasing a shower of tiny needle
hairs. All creatures within 10 feet of it must make
a DC 14 Constitution saving throw or become poi-
soned.
Invisibility (1/day). The imp remains invisible until
he takes damage.
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
20 (+5) 11 (+0) 19 (+4) 12 (+1) 10 (+0) 15 (+2)
Skills Intimidation +6, Perception +4, Stealth +4
Damage Resistances Fire
Senses Blindsight 60 ft., Passive Perception 14
Languages Common, Abyssal, Infernal
Challenge 2 (450 XP)
Magic Resistance. The Fat Baron has advantage
on saving throws against spells and other magical
effects.
Action
Multiattack. The Fat Baron makes two melee
attacks, or it makes one melee attack and teleports
before or after the attack.
Claw. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
target. Hit: 9 (1d8 + 5) slashing
Teleport (3/day). The Fat Baron magically teleports,
along with any equipment it is wearing or carrying, up
to 60 ft. to an unoccupied space it can see.

90
Lust Fiend Juvenile Balor
Medium fiend, neutral evil Large fiend, chaotic evil

Armor Class 15 (Natural Armor) Armor Class 16 (Natural Armor)

Hit Points 33 (6d8 + 6) Hit Points 59 (7d10 + 21)
Speed 30 ft., fly 30 ft. Speed 30 ft., fly 40 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
8 (-1) 17 (+3) 13 (+1) 15 (+2) 12 (+1) 20 (+5) 18 (+4) 10 (+0) 17 (+3) 15 (+2) 11 (+0) 17 (+3)

Skills Deception +9, Insight +5, Perception +5, Per-
suasion +9, Stealth +7
Damage Resistances Cold, Fire, Lightning, Poison;
Bludgeoning, Piercing and Slashing from non-magi-
cal attacks
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 15
Languages Common, Abyssal, Infernal
Challenge 2 (450 XP)
Damage Resistances Fire, Poison, Cold, Lightning
Senses Blindsight 120 ft., Passive Perception 13
Languages Common, Infernal
Challenge 3 (700 XP)
Fire Aura. At the start of each of the balor’s turns,
or when a melee attack hits the balor, each creature
within 5 ft. takes 4 (1d8) fire damage.

Actions
Charmed Claw. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit,
reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 6 (1d6 + 3) slashing
damage. Target hit by this attack must succeed on
a DC 15 Wisdom saving throw or become charmed,
causing it to spend its reaction to attack an ally if they
can. Target may attempt this save again at the end of
its next turn.
Draining Kiss. The fiend targets a creature charmed
by it or a willing creature. The target must make a
DC 15 Constitution saving throw against this magic,
taking 25 (3d10 + 5) psychic damage on a failed save,
or half as much damage on a successful one.
Actions
Multiattack. The balor makes two attacks: one with
its battleaxe and one with its whip.
Burning Battleaxe. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit,
reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 8 (1d8 + 4) slashing + 4
(1d8) fire damage.
Fire Whip. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 15
ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d6 + 4) slashing and 4 (1d8)
fire damage. Targets successfully hit by this attack
must succeed on a DC 20 Strength saving throw or
be pulled up to 10 ft. toward the Balor.

91
Heroes
We designed a list of formidable Heroes that your players
may encounter on their adventures. These humanoid
opponents have been carefully crafted to provide a range
of challenges for your players, with each character falling
into one of four categories: Scouts, Tanks, Area Spellcas-
ters, and Supports.
Scouts: As the eyes and ears of the party, Scouts are able
to move quickly and strike hard. Since they can be melee
or ranged fighters, Scouts are versatile in any situation.
They are highly mobile and deal high damage, making
them perfect for taking out key targets such as mages or
other high-priority monsters.
Tanks: The stalwart defenders known as Tanks stand
at the forefront of battle to protect others. With a combi-
nation of high HP and Armor Class, they can withstand
even the strongest attacks and keep the enemy focused
on them. Tanks can also dish out some decent damage,
making them a threat to be reckoned with.
Supports: The backbone of any adventuring party, Sup-
ports provide healing, buffs, and assistance to their allies.
While not adept at dealing damage, they can still hold
their own in combat. Supports also have medium resis-
tance, making them less susceptible to debilitating effects.
Area Spellcasters: The masters of destruction, able to
decimate large groups of enemies at once, are the Area
Spellcasters. Their spells pack quite the punch but every-
thing comes with a balance since they are also the least
resistant characters with small Armor Class and HP. As
such, Area spellcasters can also be vulnerable to interrup-
tion, making them a priority target for the enemy.
92
Whether your players are looking for a tough fight or
a memorable encounter, these characters are sure to
deliver. Each character is based on the famous classes
of character in 5E, making them easy to understand and
integrate into any game.
We took a lot of effort to make these characters to give
the feeling of each class and at the same time simplify to
be easy to handle for the DM.
Forming a Team
The group of heroes in this game consists of four charac-
ters, one for each type. Through testing, we’ve created a
table that shows the balance between the heroes and the
lair. While some heroes’ stories make them better suited
to certain groups, such as robbers or nature protectors,
they can all be mixed together to form a team.
Note 1: To make encounters more challenging, one or
two heroes can be added to the invading team, but we
caution against adding more than two, as it can lengthen
the encounter.
Note 2: These classic foes can be used as opponents any-
time a DM needs them. However, support heroes are not
effective when alone so should be combined with others
to maximize their abilities.
Every hero is available in two versions: a standard version
and an upgraded version. Both versions represent the
same NPC character, but with different levels of power
and abilities.
 Advanced (CR 3, 700 XP)
Scouts Armor Class 16 (Scale Mail)
Hit Points 48
Borty Fizzingum Speed 25 ft.
Small humanoid (Halfling), chaotic neutral (Warlock)

Borty Fizzingum hailed from a family of halfling brewers, STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
displaying a natural talent for imbuing his creations 8 (-1) 16( +3) 12 (+1) 12 (+1) 9 (-1) 20 (+5)
with magical properties. He ventured into the world of
warlocks, delving into forbidden arts that gave him the
power to surprise foes by summoning weapons from the Saving Throws WIS +1, CHA +7
ether. Despite his chaotic and indifferent nature towards Skills Arcana +3, Investigation +3
societal laws and opinions, Borty utilized his prowess to Damage Resistances Poison
battle demons and other warlocks, while exploring new Senses Blindsight 120 ft., Passive Perception 9
mysteries of the arcane. Throughout his travels, which Languages Common
spanned treacherous mountain ranges and shadowy ur-
ban enclaves, Borty remained true to his own unique path Spellcasting. Borty is a 9th-level spellcaster. His
and destiny. To those who know him, he is recognized as spellcasting ability is Charisma (spell save DC 17, +9
a master of the dark arts and a fierce adversary. to hit with spell attacks).
He has the following spells prepared:
Cantrips (at will): disguise self, eldritch blast
2/day each: hex
1/day each: banishing smite
Relentless Hex. As a bonus action, Borty can magi-
Standard (CR 2, 450 XP) cally teleport up to 30 feet to an unoccupied space he
can see that is within 5 feet of the target cursed by his
Armor Class 13 (Leather Armor) hex spell.
Hit Points 33
Speed 25 ft. Actions
Multiattack. Borty can make two melee attacks.
Greataxe. Melee weapon attack: +9 to hit, reach 5ft.,
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA one target. Hit: 12 (1d12 + 5) slashing damage.
8 (-1) 16 (+3) 12 (+1) 12 (+1) 9 (-1) 18 (+4)

Saving Throws WIS +1, CHA +6

Skills Arcana +3, Investigation +3
Damage Resistances Poison
Senses Blindsight 120 ft., Passive Perception 9
Languages Common

Spellcasting. Borty is a 5th-level spellcaster. His

spellcasting ability is Charisma (spell save DC 15, +7
to hit with spell attacks).
He has the following spells prepared:
Cantrips (at will): disguise self, eldritch blast
2/day each: hex

Actions
Multiattack. Borty can make two melee attacks.
Greataxe. Melee weapon attack: +7 to hit, reach 5ft.,
one target. Hit: 11 (1d12 + 4) slashing damage.

93
Antauril
Medium Humanoid (Half-elf), Neutral (Shadow Monk) Advanced (CR 3, 700 XP)

Antauril was born in a village that lived in the constant fear Armor Class 17 (Unarmored Defense)
of the darkness that surrounded them. From a young age, Hit Points 45
they showed a deep affinity for the shadows, disappearing Speed 40 ft.
and reappearing from sight without any effort. As they grew
older, Antauril began to train in the ways of the shadow STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
monks, learning to harness the power of darkness. Despite 12 (+1) 20 (+5) 12 (+1) 10 (+0) 15 (+2) 10 (+0)
incredible abilities, they remained shy and unassuming, using
their powers to protect anyone in need, especially the ones Saving Throws STR +4, DEX +8
too weak to protect themselves. Reputation soon spread, and Skills Acrobatics +8, Stealth +8
they were called upon by many to aid in the struggles against Senses Blindsight 60 ft., Passive Perception 12
darkness. Antauril remained the unseen protector, a shadowy Languages Common, Elvish
figure lurking on the edge of danger.
Shadow Arts. Antauril can cast spells from the fol-
Standard (CR 2, 450 XP) lowing prepared list:
At will : minor illusion
1/day each: darkness, darkvision, pass without
Armor Class 16 (Unarmored Defense)
trace, silence
Hit Points 33
Shadow Trapmaster (1/day). Honed by the shadows,
Speed 40 ft.
Anthauril’s keen eyes automatically detect the first
trap that he comes across, allowing him to identify
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA both its mechanism and design. He may then use his
12 (+1) 18 (+4) 12 (+1) 10 (+0) 15 (+2) 10 (+0) action to disarm the trap without the need for any
additional tools.
Saving Throws STR +4, DEX +7
Skills Acrobatics +7, Stealth +7 Action
Senses Blindsight 60 ft., Passive Perception 12 Multiattack. Antauril can make two unarmed strike
Languages Common, Elvish attacks.
Unarmed Strike. Melee Weapon Attack: +8 to hit,
Shadow Arts. Antauril can cast spells from the fol- reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 9 (1d8+5) bludgeoning
lowing prepared list: damage.
At will: minor illusion
1/day each: darkness, darkvision, pass without Bonus Action
trace, silence Unarmed Strike. Melee Weapon Attack: +8 to hit,
Shadow Trapmaster (1/day). Honed by the sha- reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 9 (1d8+5) bludgeoning
dows, Anthauril’s keen eyes automatically detect damage.
the first trap that he comes across, allowing him to Shadow Step. When in dim light or darkness, Antau-
identify both its mechanism and design. He may then ril can teleport up to 60 feet to an unoccupied space
use his action to disarm the trap without the need for they can see that is also in dim light or darkness.
any additional tools.

Action
Multiattack. Antauril can make two unarmed strike
attacks.
Unarmed Strike. Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit,
reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d6+4) bludgeoning
damage.

Bonus Action
Unarmed Strike. Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit,
reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d6+4) bludgeoning
damage.
Shadow Step. When in dim light or darkness, Antau-
ril can teleport up to 60 feet to an unoccupied space
they can see that is also in dim light or darkness.

94
Harry Bull
Medium humanoid (Human), Chaotic Neutral (Monster
Slayer)

Harry Bull was attacked by goblins as a child, leading

him to become a skilled hunter. He trained with a ranger,
developing a reputation for being fearless. Despite going
against the advice of his peers, Harry developed a special
hatred and began to actively hunt goblins. He is respected
for his strength but feared for his short temper. Harry
Bull continues to roam the land, seeking out and elimina-
ting any threats to the peace and security of the realm.

Standard (CR 2, 450 XP) Advanced (CR 3, 700 XP)

Armor Class 15 (Leather Armor) Armor Class 16 (Leather Armor)
Hit Points 33 Hit Points 60
Speed 30 ft. Speed 30 ft., swim 30 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
12 (+1) 18 (+4) 12 (+1) 10 (+0) 16 (+3) 10 (+0) 12 (+1) 20 (+5) 12 (+1) 10 (+0) 16 (+3) 10 (+0)

Saving Throws STR +4, DEX +7 Saving Throws STR +4, DEX +9
Skills Athletics +7, Stealth +7 Skills Athletics +8, Stealth +8
Senses Passive Perception 13 Senses Passive Perception 12
Languages Common Languages Common

Goblinoid Hunter. Whenever Harry deals damage to
a goblinoid they deal an extra 2 piercing damage.
Tenacious Slayer. When you hit a creature with a
weapon attack, the creature takes an extra 1d6 da-
mage if it’s below its hit point maximum.
Actions
Multiattack. Harry can make two attacks with
shortbow or shortsword.
Shortbow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, range
80/320 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d6 + 4) piercing da-
mage.
Shortsword. Melee weapon attack: +7 to hit, reach
5ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d6 + 4) slashing damage.
Free Movement. Moving through difficult terrain
costs Harry no extra movement.
Goblinoid Great Hunter. Whenever Harry deals
damage to a goblinoïd he deals an extra 4 piercing
damage.
Aberration Great Hunter. Whenever Harry deals
damage to an aberration he deals an extra 4 piercing
damage.
Tenacious Slayer. When you hit a creature with a
weapon attack, the creature takes an extra 1d6 da-
mage if it’s below its hit point maximum.
Actions
Multiattack. Harry can make two attacks with a
shortbow or shortsword.
Bow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +11 to hit, range
80/320 ft., one target. Hit: 14 (2d6 + 7) bludgeoning
damage.
Shortsword. Melee weapon attack: +9 to hit, reach
5ft., one target. Hit: 14 (2d6 + 7) slashing damage.
Barrage of arrows. Ranged Weapon Attack: range 80
ft., 10 ft. radius sphere. Harry unleashes a barrage
of arrows and each creature within the radius must
make a Dexterity saving throw taking 3d6 piercing
damage on failed save.

95
Aranrus Koyle
Medium humanoid (Tiefling), lawful neutral (Assassin) Advanced (CR 3, 700 XP)
Aranrus Koyle was born into a world of darkness and Armor Class 16 (Leather Armor)
deceit where the strong preyed upon the weak… The law Hit Points 60
was just a suggestion. As a rogue, he was destined for a Speed 30 ft.
life of crime, living in the shadow world of the thieves’
guild the Blackhands. Aranrus rapidly rose through the
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
ranks, becoming a ruthless and efficient killer, feared
by his enemies and his peers. Despite his reputation, 10 (+0) 20 (+5) 12 (+1) 12 (+1) 8 (-1) 12 (+1)
Aranrus had a strict code of conduct: he would only
target those he deemed deserving of punishment. As a Saving Throws DEX +9, INT +5
master of deception and disguise, Aranrus soon caught Skills Perception +7, Stealth +8
the attention of the leaders of the guild, landing contracts Senses Passive Perception 13
for various high-profile missions. Through it all, Aranrus Languages Common, Infernal
remained fiercely loyal to the Blackhands, becoming a
dark and mysterious figure, feared and respected in equal Evasion. If the Aranrus is subjected to an effect that
measure. allows him to make a Dexterity saving throw to take
only half damage, he instead takes no damage if the
roll succeeds and only half damage if it fails.
Assassinate. During their first turn, Aranrus has
advantage on attack rolls against any creature that
Standard (CR 2, 450 XP)
hasn’t taken a turn this combat. Any hit the Aranrus
scores against a surprised creature is a critical hit.
Armor Class 15 (Leather Armor)
Sneak Attack. Once per turn, Aranrus deals an extra
Hit Points 33 (5d10 +7)
13 (4d6) damage when it hits a target with a weapon
Speed 30 ft.
attack and has advantage on the attack roll, or when
the target is within 5 feet of an ally of the assassin
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA that isn’t incapacitated and the assassin doesn’t have
10 (+0) 18 (+4) 12 (+1) 12 (+1) 8 (-1) 12 (+1) disadvantage on the attack roll.

Saving Throws DEX +7, INT +4 Actions

Skills Perception +7, Stealth +7 Multiattack. Aranrus
Damage resistances Cold, Fire, Poison makes two shortsword
Senses Passive Perception 11 attacks.
Languages Common, Infernal Shortsword. Melee Weapon
Attack: +9 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
Sneak Attack. Once per turn, Aranrus deals an one target. Hit: 8 (1d6 + 5)
extra 10 (3d6) damage when they hit a target with piercing damage.
a weapon attack and either have advantage on the
attack roll, or when the target is within 5 feet of an
ally of Aranrus that isn’t incapacitated and Aranrus
doesn’t have disadvantage on the attack roll.

Actions
Multiattack. Aranrus makes two shortsword attacks.
Shortsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5
ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d6 + 4) piercing damage.

96
Lady Arthoria Hardback
Medium Humanoid (Human) , Lawful Good (Archer)

Arthoria Hardback was born into a farm but showed a

natural talent for archery from a young age. As she grew
older, her reputation as the finest archer in the village
grew, but Arthoria remained committed to using her skills
for the greater good. When a powerful sorcerer threate-
ned the Mulnian kingdom, Arthoria joined the king’s army
without a doubt, and she became a formidable warrior in
battle. Her courage and selflessness made her renowned
among the army troops, and her skill became known as
one of the kingdom’s greatest archers. In the end, Artho-
ria’s skill with the bow proved to be the key to victory, and
she is celebrated as a young prowess that is destined to
become a hero.

Standard (CR 2, 450 XP) Advanced (CR 3, 700 XP)

Armor Class 16 (Chainmail Armor) Armor Class 16 (Chainmail Armor)

Hit Points 38 (7d8 +7) Hit Points 49 (9d8 +9)
Speed 30 ft. Speed 30 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
14 (+2) 16 (+3) 12 (+1) 16 (+3) 8 (-1) 10 (+0) 14 (+2) 18 (+4) 12 (+1) 16 (+3) 10 (+0) 12 (+1)

Saving Throws STR +5, CON +4 Saving Throws STR +6, CON +5
Skills Athletics +7, Intimidation +7 Skills Athletics +6, Intimidation +6
Senses Passive Perception 12 Senses Passive Perception 12
Languages Common Languages Common

Attack Surge (1/day). When Lady Arthoria attacks in Attack Surge (1/day). When Lady Arthoria attacks in
combat, she can make one additional action. combat, she can make one additional action.

Actions
Multiattack. Arthoria makes two attacks, only one
can be a charming arrow.
Longbow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, ranged
150/600 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d8 + 3) piercing da-
mage.
Charming Arrow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +6 to hit,
ranged 150/600 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d8 + 3) pier-
cing damage and 5 (2d4) psychic damage. The target
must succeed on a 13 Wisdom saving throw, or it is
charmed by Arthoria until the start of her next turn.
Shortsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5
ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d6 + 3) slashing damage.
Actions
Multiattack. Arthoria makes two attacks, only one
can be a charming arrow.
Longbow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +8 to hit, ranged
150/600 ft., one target. Hit: 8 (1d8 + 4) piercing da-
mage.
Charming Arrow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +8 to hit,
ranged 150/600 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d8 + 3) pier-
cing damage and 5 (2d4) psychic damage. The target
must succeed on a 13 Wisdom saving throw, or it is
charmed by Arthoria until the start of her next turn.
Shortsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +8 to hit, reach 5
ft., one target. Hit: 8 (1d6 + 4) slashing damage.

97
Picket Fence
Small humanoid (halfling), chaotic neutral (Psychic
rogue)

Picket Fence was born into a luxury life full of privilege.

The youngest son of a rich merchant family, he always
felt like he didn’t quite fit in. He was drawn instead to the
dark arts and ancient artifacts. He sought out a powerful
lich rumored to possess a rare artifact that could grant
immense power to the wielder. After stealing the artifact
and awakening the wrath of the undead sorcerer, Picket
Fence fled and eventually joined a group of adventurers
hired to take down the lich. Using his rogue and psychic
abilities, he helped the adventurers end the realm of the
lich.

Advanced (CR 3, 700 XP)

Standard (CR 2, 450 XP)
Armor Class 16 (Leather Armor)
Armor Class 15 (Leather Armor) Hit Points 40
Hit Points 28 Speed 25 ft.
Speed 25 ft.
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA 8 (-1) 18 (+4) 12 (+1) 12 (+1) 9 (-1) 16 (+3)
8 (-1) 16 (+3) 10 (+0) 12 (+1) 9 (-1) 16 (+3)
Saving Throws Dex +8, Int +5
Saving Throws DEX +6, INT +4 Skills Perception +3, Stealth +8
Skills Perception +2, Stealth +6 Senses Passive Perception 11
Senses Passive Perception 11 Languages Common
Languages Common
Evasion. If Picket is subjected to a Dexterity saving
Sneak Attack. Once per turn, Picket deals an ex- throw to take only half damage, they instead take no
tra 10 (3d6) damage when they hit a target with a damage on a success, and only half damage if it fails.
weapon attack and have advantage on the attack roll, Sneak Attack. Once per turn, Picket deals an ex-
or when the target is within 5 feet of Picket’s ally who tra 17 (5d6) damage when they hit a target with a
isn’t incapacitated and Picket doesn’t have disadvan- weapon attack and have advantage on the attack roll,
tage on the attack roll. or when the target is within 5 feet of Picket’s ally who
Trap Expert. If Picket is caught in a trap, he gains isn’t incapacitated and Picket doesn’t have disadvan-
advantage on any saving throws related to the trap, tage on the attack roll.
allowing him to escape or mitigate its effects with Trap Expert. If Picket is caught in a trap, he gains
greater ease. advantage on any saving throws related to the trap,
allowing him to escape or mitigate its effects with
greater ease.
Actions
Multiattack. Picket can make two attacks.
Actions
Psychic Dagger. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit,
Multiattack. Picket can make two attacks.
reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit: 6 (1d6 + 3) psychic
Psychic Dagger. Melee Weapon Attack: +8 to hit,
damage.
reach 5 ft. or range 20/60 ft., one creature. Hit: 7
Psychic Dagger (thrown). Ranged Weapon Attack:
(1d6 + 4) psychic damage.
+6 to hit, range 20/60 ft., one creature. Hit: 6 (1d6 +
Psychic Dagger (thrown). Ranged Weapon Attack:
3) psychic damage.
+8 to hit, reach 5 ft. or range 20/60 ft., one creature.
Hit: 7 (1d6 + 4) psychic damage

98
Tanks Advanced (CR 3, 700 XP)

Kalian Stonegrinder Armor Class 17 (Splint Armor)

Medium humanoid (Golem), lawful good (Fighter) Hit Points 76 (9d8+32)
Speed 30 ft.
Kalian Stonegrinder is a sentient golem warrior created
by a powerful wizard to serve as the perfect fighter. After STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
serving their master for centuries, Kalian began to ques- 16 (+3) 10 (+0) 1 8(+4) 12 (+1) 12 (+1) 8 (-1)
tion their existence and lack of free will. During a mission
to quell a rebellion, Kalian realized they were just being Saving Throws STR +9, CON +8
used to bring horror and despair to civilians to insure a Skills Intimidation +1, Perception +3
quick surrender. No longer able to serve a master that Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 13
cared only for conquest, they turned against their master Languages Common, Primordial
to gain their freedom. Now, Kalian has become a skilled
mercenary, always trying to bring justice to the world. Attack Surge. After Kalian attacks for the first time in
combat, they can make one additional action.
Stony Shell (3/day). When hit with an attack that
deals slashing, piercing or bludgeoning damage,
Kalian may spend his reaction to become resistant to
Standard (CR 2, 450 XP) that damage type until the end of his next turn.
Armor Class 16 (Scale Mail)
Actions
Hit Points 60 (7d8 + 28)
Multiattack. Kalian can make two melee attacks: one
Speed 30 ft.
trip and one greatsword attack.
Trip. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA target. Hit: 10 (2d6 + 3) bludgeoning damage. When
16 (+3) 10 (+0) 18 (+4) 12 (+1) 12 (+1) 8 (-1) Kalian hits a Large or smaller creature with a trip
attack, it must make a DC 13 Strength saving throw
Saving Throws STR +5, CON +6 or fall prone.
Skills Intimidation +1, Perception +3 Greatsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 13 ft., one target. Hit: 10 (2d6 + 3) slashing damage.
Languages Common, Primordial

Attack Surge. After Kalian attacks for the first time in

combat, they can make one additional action.
Stony Shell (1/day). When hit with an attack that
deals slashing, piercing or bludgeoning damage,
Kalian may spend his reaction to become resistant to
that damage type until the end of his next turn.

Actions
Multiattack. Kalian can make two melee attacks: one
trip and one greatsword attack.
Trip. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
target. Hit: 8 (1d10 + 3) bludgeoning damage. When
Kalian hits a Large or smaller creature with a trip
attack, it must make a DC 13 Strength saving throw
or fall prone.
Longsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5
ft., one target. Hit: 8 (1d10 + 3) slashing damage.

99
Mannak
Medium humanoid (Dwarf), chaotic good (Barbarian)

As a child, Mannak’s clan, the Granite Warriors, were

destroyed by their rivals, leaving him as the sole survivor.
Fueled by his anger, Mannak dedicated his life to seeking
revenge. He trained tirelessly as a barbarian, perfecting
his skills in combat, and eventually led a successful attack
on the fortress, where he finally met the mastermind
behind the destruction of his ancestors: Gregor the Des-
tructor. Despite the warlord’s defeat, Mannak found him-
self feeling unfulfilled, with a deep emptiness that could
not be filled by his long-awaited revenge. Now he travels
the land, offering his expertise to those in need, searching
for a purpose that is worth dying for.

Standard (CR 2, 450 XP)

Armor Class 15 (Unarmored)

Hit Points 65
Speed 40 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA

16 (+3) 12 (+1) 18 (+4) 8 (-1) 10 (+0) 8 (-1)
Advanced (CR 3, 700 XP)
Saving Throws STR +6, CON +7
Skills Nature +2, Perception +3 Armor Class 15 (Unarmored)
Damage Resistances Slashing, piercing, bludgeo- Hit Points 92
ning Speed 40 ft.
Senses Passive Perception 13
Languages Common, Dwarven
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
Careless Attacker. Mannak’s relentless attacks leave 18 (+4) 12 (+1) 18 (+4) 8 (-1) 10 (+0) 8 (-1)
him open to counterattack. The next attack made
against him is done with advantage. Saving Throws STR +8, CON +8
Skills Intimidation +2, Perception +4
Actions Damage Resistances Slashing, piercing, bludgeoning
Multiattack. Mannak makes two melee attacks. Senses Passive Perception 13
Battleaxe. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 Languages Common, Dwarven
ft., one target. Hit: 9 (1d8 + 4) slashing damage.
Careless Attacker. Mannak’s relentless attacks leave
him open to counterattack. The next attack made
against him is done with advantage.
Focused. Mannak can’t be charmed or frightened.

Actions
Multiattack. Mannak makes two melee attacks.
Battleaxe. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
one target. Hit: 11 (1d8 + 6) slashing damage.

100
Gavin Advanced (CR 3, 700 XP)
Medium Humanoid (Dwarf), Lawful Good (Paladin)
Armor Class 17 (Half plate + Shield)
Gavin is a towering Dwarf with rippling muscles and a
Hit Points 80
mighty beard that flows down to his waist. He entered the
Speed 25 ft.
Brotherhood of Light and swore his life to serve his glim-
mering deity. He is always ready to wield his holy powers
to smite evil and defend the innocent. He is a master of STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
the battlegrounds, wielding his shiny sword with deadly 17 (+3) 10 (+0) 16 (+3) 8 (-1) 8 (-1) 18 (+4)
precision and shield to protect his comrades. Gavin is
highly revered by all who know him, and his unwavering Saving Throws WIS +1, CHA +6
devotion to his faith and his allies made him a true hero Skills Athletics +4, Persuasion +6
among the Brotherhood. Damage Resistances Poison
Senses Passive Perception 9
Languages Common, Dwarvish
Standard (CR 2, 450 XP)
Divine Smite (2/day). When Gavin deals damage to
an enemy, he deals an additional 3d8 radiant da-
Armor Class 17 (Half plate + Shield)
mage.
Hit Points 49
Inspiring Strike. Once per round, when Gavin deals
Speed 25 ft.
damage to an enemy, they can distribute temporary
hit points equal to the damage dealt to any creatures
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA they can see within 30 ft, including themself. The
15 (+2) 10 (+0) 16 (+3) 8 (-1) 8 (-1) 18 (+4) temporary hit points cannot exceed 10.

Saving Throws WIS +1, CHA +6 Actions

Skills Athletics +4, Persuasion +6 Multiattack. Gavin can make two melee attacks.
Damage Resistances Poison Longsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5
Senses Passive Perception 9 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d8 + 3) slashing damage.
Languages Common, Dwarvish

Divine Smite (2/day). When Gavin deals damage to

an enemy, he deals an additional 2d8 radiant da-
mage.
Inspiring Strike. Once per round, when Gavin deals
damage to an enemy, they can distribute temporary
hit points equal to the damage dealt to any creatures
they can see within 30 ft, including themself. The
temporary hit points cannot exceed 10.

Actions
Multiattack. Gavin can make two melee attacks.
Longsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5
ft., one target. Hit: 6 (1d8 + 2) slashing damage.

101
TBD
Medium Humanoid (Lizardfolk), Neutral Good (Paladin)

TBD was born into a tribe of fierce Lizardfolk warriors

who honored their ancestors. Despite this, TBD felt
drawn to the ways of the paladin and studied the tea-
chings of the divine.
While traveling through a forest with a group of paladins,
he encountered a strange portal and battled hideous aber-
rations that emerged from it. He was so ruthless towards
these evil creatures that he got his nickname TBD for Tac-
tical Biter Destructor.
He now travels the land, fighting against evil and fol-
lowing the most prestigious leaders of the kingdoms, he
stays committed to both his tribe and his higher calling as
a paladin.

Standard (CR 2, 450 XP) Advanced (CR 3, 700 XP)

Armor Class 17 (Splint Armor) Armor Class 18 (Plate Armor)
Hit Points 50 Hit Points 80
Speed 30 ft., swim 30 ft. Speed 30 ft., swim 30 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
15 (+2) 8 (-1) 16 (+3) 8 (-1) 8 (-1) 18 (+4) 17 (+3) 8 (-1) 18 (+4) 8 (-1) 8 (-1) 18 (+4)

Saving Throws WIS +1, CHA +6 Saving Throws WIS +1, CHA +6
Skills Athletics +4, Persuasion +6 Skills Athletics +4, Persuasion +6
Damage Resistances Fire Damage Resistances Fire
Senses Blindsight 10 ft., Passive Perception 9 Senses Blindsight 10 ft., Passive Perception 9
Languages Common, Draconic Languages Common, Draconic

Divine Smite (2/day). When TBD deals damage to
an enemy, they can deal an additional 2d8 radiant
damage.
Divine Taunt. One creature that TBD can see within
range must make a DC 13 Wisdom saving throw.
On a failed save, it has disadvantage on attack rolls
against creatures other than TBD for 1 minute.
Divine Smite (2/day). When TBD deals damage to
an enemy, they can deal an additional 3d8 radiant
damage.
Divine Taunt. One creature that TBD can see within
range must make a DC 15 Wisdom saving throw.
On a failed save, it has disadvantage on attack rolls
against creatures other than TBD for 1 minute.

Actions Actions
Multiattack. TBD makes two attacks. Multiattack. TBD makes two attacks.
Greatsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach Greatsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach
5 ft., one target. Hit: 9 (2d6 + 2) slashing damage. 5 ft., one target. Hit: 10 (2d6 + 3) slashing damage.

102
 Advanced (CR 3, 700 XP)
Cave Bear Form
Oakurk Armor Class 12
Large goblinoid (Orc), Neutral (Druid) Hit Points 88 (11d10 +33)
Speed 40 ft., climb 30 ft.
Oakurk, a forest-born orc, survived a wolf attack thanks to
the intervention of benevolent bears. He dedicated his life
to studying the paths of the woods and became a druid. STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
His fascination with bears grew, leading to an unbrea- 20 (+5) 10 (+0) 16 (+3) 10 (+0) 18 (+4) 14 (+2)
kable bond that transcended the boundaries of species.
Oakurk’s connection with a wounded bear cub ultimately Saving Throws INT +4, WIS +8
earned him the blessing of a bear spirit, cementing his Skills Nature +5, Survival +6
reputation as the Bear Brother and making him an ad- Senses Passive Perception 14
mired figure among the woodland creatures. As he travels Languages Common, Orcish
the land, Oakurk is driven by a fierce determination to
safeguard nature against those who would exploit and Regeneration. Oakurk heals himself for 10 hit points
desecrate it. at the start of his turn. If he takes acid or fire damage,
this trait doesn’t function at the start of his next turn.
Oakurk dies only if it starts its turn with 0 hit points
and doesn’t regenerate.

Actions
Multiattack. Oakurk makes two attacks: one bite and
Standard (CR 2, 450 XP) one with his claws.
Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
Armor Class 11 target. Hit: 9 (1d8 + 5) piercing damage.
Hit Points 68 Claws. Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
Speed 40 ft., climb 30 ft. one target. Hit: 12 (2d6 + 4) slashing damage. If
the target is a creature, it must succeed on a DC 14
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA Strength saving throw or be knocked prone.
19 (+4) 10 (+0) 16 (+3) 10 (+0) 16 (+3) 14 (+2)

Saving Throws INT +3, WIS +6

Skills Nature +4, Survival +5
Senses Passive Perception 14
Languages Common, Orcish

Regeneration. Oakurk heals himself for 8 hit points

at the start of his turn. If he takes acid or fire da-
mage, this trait doesn’t function at the start of his
next turn. Oakurk dies only if it starts its turn with 0
hit points and doesn’t regenerate.

Actions
Multiattack. Oakurk makes two attacks: one bite
and one with his claws.
Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
target. Hit: 8 (1d8 + 4) piercing damage.
Claws. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
one target. Hit: 11 (2d6 + 4) slashing damage.

103
 Advanced (CR 3, 450 XP)
Blaze Fury Armor Class 17 (Scale Mail)
Medium fey (Fey), lawful good (Beast master) Hit Points 67 (9d10 +27)
Speed 30 ft., swim 30 ft.
Blaze Fury is a member of a Feywild Clan with an innate
connection to the animals of the forest. He became a STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
famous tracker and monster hunter when he used his
abilities to protect the human settlements of lumberjacks 12 (+1) 16 (+3) 16 (+3) 8 (-1) 14 (+2) 12 (+1)
on the edge of the forest. However, his actions to help
innocent people often brought him into dispute with the Saving Throws STR +4, DEX +6
authorities, making him a wanted criminal. Blaze Fury Skills Athletics +4, Stealth +5
was then approached by various actors of the underworld, Damage Resistance Psychic
who saw in him a valuable asset for their illegal activities. Senses Passive Perception 13
He began to work with them, using his companion frog Languages Common, Fey
to scout out locations and to provide support during the
operations. Through his actions, Blaze Fury gained a Wildling Hunter. Whenever you damage a hostile
reputation as a swift agent ready for hire. humanoid you deal an extra 2 piercing damage.

Action
Multiattack. Blaze can make two attacks.
Shortbow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, range
80/320 ft., one target. Hit: 6 (1d6 + 3) bludgeoning
damage.
Standard (CR 2, 450 XP) Shortsword. Melee weapon attack: +6 to hit, reach
5ft., one target. Hit: 6 (1d6 + 3) slashing damage.
Armor Class 17 (Scale Mail)
Hit Points 42 (5d10 +14)
Speed 30 ft., swim 30 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA

12 (+1) 14 (+2) 16 (+3) 8 (-1) 14 (+2) 12 (+1)

Saving Throws STR +4, DEX +5

Skills Athletics +4, Stealth +5
Damage Resistance: Psychic
Senses Passive Perception 13
Languages Common, Fey

Wildling Hunter. Whenever you damage a hostile

humanoid you deal an extra 2 piercing damage.

Action
Multiattack. Blaze can make two attacks.
Shortbow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, range
80/320 ft., one target. Hit: 5(1d6 + 2) bludgeoning
damage.
Shortsword. Melee weapon attack: +5 to hit, reach
5ft., one target. Hit: 5(1d6 + 2) slashing damage.

104
Standard (CR ½, 100 XP)

Armor Class 15 Mystery Frog

Hit Points 22 (4d10) Large beast, lawful good
Speed 30 ft., swim 30 ft.
Blaze Fury stumbled upon a frog in distress, pinned
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA beneath a fallen branch. As Blaze freed it, the frog’s
eyes sparkled with an unusual intelligence. Realizing
12 (+1) 15 (+2) 11 (+0) 2 (-5) 10 (+0) 3 (-4)
this was an Awakened Frog from the Feywild, Blaze
named it «Mystery.» They quickly bonded, with Myste-
Skills Perception +2, Stealth +3
ry’s unique instincts aiding in Blaze’s hunts. Over time,
Senses Darkvision 30 ft., Passive Perception 12
Mystery revealed another surprise. It grew and grew and
grew, transforming into the giant frog we know today.
Amphibious. The frog can breathe air and water.
Standing Leap. The frog’s long jump is up to 20 feet
and its high jump is up to 10 feet, with or without a
running start.

Actions Advanced (CR 1, 200 XP)

Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
one target. Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) piercing damage, and the Armor Class 16
target is grappled (escape DC 12). Until this grapple Hit Points 32 (6d10+6)
ends, the target is restrained, and the frog can’t bite Speed 30 ft., swim 30 ft.
another target.
Swallow. The frog makes a bite attack to try to STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
swallow it’s grappled target if it’s Small or smaller,
ending the grapple. If successful, the target is blinded, 12 (+1) 16 (+3) 12 (+1) 2 (-5) 10 (+0) 3 (-4)
restrained, gains full cover from attacks or effects
outside the frog, and takes 7 (3d4) acid damage at Skills Perception +3, Stealth +5
the start of each of the frog’s turn. The frog can only Senses Darkvision 30 ft., Passive Perception 12
swallow one target. If the frog dies, the creature exits
thecorpse prone and no longer blinded or restrained. Amphibious. The frog can breathe air and water.
Standing Leap. The frog’s long jump is up to 20 feet
and its high jump is up to 10 feet, with or without a
running start.

Actions
Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
one target. Hit: 6 (1d6 + 3) piercing damage, and the
target is grappled (escape DC 13). Until this grapple
ends, the target is restrained, and the frog can’t bite
another target.
Swallow. The frog makes one bite attack against a
Small or smaller target it is grappling. If the attack
hits, the target is swallowed, and the grapple ends.
The swallowed target is blinded and restrained, it has
total cover against attacks and other effects outside
the frog, and it takes 10 (4d4) acid damage at the
start of each of the frog’s turns.
The frog can have only one target swallowed at a
time. If the frog dies, a swallowed creature is no lon-
ger restrained by it and can escape from the corpse
using 5 feet of movement, exiting prone.

105
Support
Gerty Belmore
Medium humanoid (Human), chaotic good (Potion Alche-
mist)

Gerty Belmore, an accomplished alchemist, is fascinated

by the magical properties of potions and became known
for her talent in potion-making. After her parents were
killed during an attack on her farm on the outskirts of
Muln, Gerty journeyed to use her skills to help others.
She used her potions to aid the injured and support her
allies, earning a reputation as a skilled healer and a fierce
protector. However, her chaotic nature led her to occa-
sionally use her potions for mischief, causing frustration
among those around her. Despite this, Gerty remained a
strong advocate for justice and equality throughout her
travels.

Advanced (CR 3, 700 XP)

Standard (CR 2, 450 XP) Armor Class 15 (Scale mail)
Hit Points 57
Armor Class 15 (Scale mail) Speed 30 ft.
Hit Points 33
Speed 30 ft.
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
12(+1) 12(+1) 12(+1) 20(+5) 8(-1) 12(+1)
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
12 (+1) 12 (+1) 12 (+1) 18 (+4) 8 (-1) 12 (+1) Saving Throws CON +5, INT +9,
Skills Arcana +9, Sleight of Hand +3
Saving Throws CON +4, INT +7 Senses Passive Perception 10
Skills Arcana +7, Sleight of Hand +3 Languages Common
Senses Passive Perception 10
Languages Common Better Equipment. At the start of combat target one
creature that gets +2 to attack rolls and damage, +1
Better Equipment. At the start of combat target one to AC and gets resistance to one damage type among:
creature that gets +2 to attack rolls and damage and cold, fire, lightning, necrotic, poison, psychic.
+1 to AC. Healing Savant. +7 to any spell that heals HP.
Healing Savant. +5 to any spell that heals HP. Spellcasting. Gerty is a 5th-level spellcaster. Her
Spellcasting. Gerty is a 5th-level spellcaster. Her spellcasting ability is Intelligence (spell save DC 18,
spellcasting ability is Intelligence (spell save DC 16, +10 to hit with spell attacks). She has the following
+8 to hit with spell attacks). She has the following spells prepared:
spells prepared: Cantrips (at will): fire bolt
Cantrips (at will): fire bolt 1st level (4 slots): healing word, faerie fire
1st level (4 slots): healing word, faerie fire 2nd level (3 slots): acid arrow, flaming sphere,
2nd level (2 slots): acid arrow, flaming sphere lesser restoration
3rd level (2 slots): mass healing word, haste
Actions
Shortsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach Actions
5 ft., one target. Hit: 4 (1d6 + 1) slashing damage. Shortsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach
5 ft., one target. Hit: 4 (1d6 + 1) slashing damage.

106
Senara Valard Advanced (CR 3, 700 XP)
Medium celestial, lawful good (Sorcerer)
Armor Class 12 (no armor)
Hit Points 47
Senara Valard is a celestial with ethereal features and
Speed 30 ft.
piercing blue eyes that shine like stars. As a follower of
the Brotherhood of Light, she spends her life channeling
divine magic to heal the wounded and protect the weak, STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
especially if they bend knees to the light. Even if she 8 (-1) 15 (+2) 12 (+1) 10 (+0) 11 (+0) 18 (+4)
doesn’t like it, she takes part in operations to burn the he-
retics. A master of divine powers, Senara wields the ma- Saving Throws CON +5, INT +4, WIS +4, CHA +9
gic of the divine to unleash devastating spells against her Skills Arcana +4, Religion +4
adversaries. Despite her fearsome powers, Senara is kind Damage Resistances Necrotic, Radiant
and stubborn, always putting the needs of others and her Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 10
brothers before her own. She is respected by her peers Languages Common, Celestial
as someone you can rely on, and her selfless commitment
inspired others to join the brotherhood of light. Empowered Healing. When Senara rolls for a hea-
ling spell, if the result of a die is 1, she may reroll the
die but must use the new result.
Twinned Spell. When Senara casts a spell that heals
only one creature and doesn’t have a range of self,
Standard (CR 2, 450 XP) she may target a second creature in range with the
same spell.
Armor Class 12 (no armor)
Spellcasting. Senara is a 6th-level spellcaster. Her
Hit Points 33 ( 6d8 + 8)
spellcasting ability is Charisma (spell save DC 13, +7
Speed 30 ft.
to hit with spell attacks). She has the following spells
prepared:
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA Cantrips (at will): light, sacred flame
8 (-1) 15 (+2) 12 (+1) 10 (+0) 11 (+0) 18 (+4) 1st level (4 slots): cure wounds, guiding bolt
2nd level (3 slots): lesser restoration, hold person
Saving Throws CON +4, INT +3, WIS +3, CHA +7 3rd level (3 slots): dispel magic, haste
Skills Arcana +2, Religion +2
Damage Resistances Necrotic, Radiant Actions
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 10 Fire Quarterstaff. Melee Weapon Attack: +3 to hit,
Languages Common, Celestial reach 5ft., one target. Hit: 3 (1d6 - 1) bludgeoning and
5 (1d10) fire damage.
Empowered Healing. When Senara rolls for a hea-
ling spell, if the result of a die is 1, she may reroll the
die but must use the new result.
Spellcasting. Senara is a 5th-level spellcaster. Her
spellcasting ability is Charisma (spell save DC 14, +6
to hit with spell attacks). She has the following spells
prepared:
Cantrips (at will): light, sacred flame
1st level (4 slots): cure wounds, guiding bolt
2nd level (3 slots): lesser restoration, hold person
3rd level (2 slots): dispel magic, haste

Action
Fire Quarterstaff. Melee Weapon Attack: +1 to hit,
reach 5ft., one target. Hit: 3 (1d6 - 1) bludgeoning and
5 (1d10) fire damage.

107
Singing Wind Advanced (CR 3, 700 XP)
Medium humanoid (catfolk), neutral
Armor Class 16 (Leather Armor)
Singing Wind was born into a family of catfolk bards, but Hit Points 53
from a young age, she felt destined for something more Speed 35 ft., climb 15 ft.
than a life of endless songs and stories. She dived into the
underworld of the city and quickly became an important in- STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
formant, gathering intel for various criminal organizations.
Singing Wind yearned for adventure and participated in 8 (-1) 18 (+4) 12 (+1) 9 (-1) 12 (+1) 18 (+4)
several special quests as a fierce and capable support. She
fought humanoids and monsters, delved into ancient tombs, Saving Throws DEX +8, CHA +8
and traveled to far far lands in search of valuable treasures Skills Medicine +3, Performance +8
and forgotten lore. Through it all, Singing Wind remained Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 14
true to her bardic roots, using her music and wit to charm Languages Common
her way out of danger and inspire her allies in battle.
Lilting Countercharm. Singing Wind and any frien-
dly creatures within 30 feet of her have advantage on
saving throws against being frightened or charmed. A
Standard (CR 2, 450 XP) creature must be able to hear her to gain this benefit.
Spellcasting. Singing Wind is a 9th-level spellcaster.
Armor Class 15 (Leather Armor) Her spellcasting ability is Wisdom (spell save DC 16,
Hit Points 31 +8 to hit with spell attacks). She has the following
Speed 35 ft., climb 15 ft. spells prepared:
Cantrips (at will): mage hand
1st level (4 slots): healing word, hideous laughter
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
2nd level (4 slots): enlarge/reduce
8 (-1) 16 (+3) 12 (+1) 9 (-1) 12 (+1) 18 (+4) 3rd level (3 slots): hypnotic pattern, haste
4th level (2 slots): greater invisibility
Saving Throws DEX +6, CHA +7 5th level (1slot): greater restoration
Skills Medicine +2, Performance +7
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 14 Actions
Languages Common Rapier. Melee Weapon Attack: +8 to hit, reach 5
ft., one target. Hit: 8 (1d8 + 4) slashing
Spellcasting. Singing Wind is a 5th-level spellcaster. Longbow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +8 to hit,
Her spellcasting ability is Wisdom (spell save DC 15, reach 80 ft., one target. Hit: 8 (1d8 + 4)
+7 to hit with spell attacks). She has the following slashing damage.
spells prepared:
Cantrips (at will): mage hand Bonus Action
1st level (4 slots): healing word, hideous laughter Cutting Words (3/day). When a
2nd level (3 slots): enlarge/reduce creature that Senara can see within
3rd level (2 slots): hypnotic pattern 60 feet makes an attack roll, an
ability check, or a damage roll, she
Action can use her reaction to expend one
Rapier. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., of her uses of Bardic Inspiration
one target. Hit: 7 (1d8 + 3) slashing (d10), rolling a Bardic Inspiration
Longbow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach die and subtracting the number
80 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d8 + 3) slashing damage. rolled from the creature’s roll.
Senara can choose to use this
Bonus Action feature after the creature makes
Cutting Words (3/day). When a creature Singing its roll.
Wind can see within 60 feet of her makes an attack
roll, an ability check, or a damage roll, she can use
her reaction to expend one use of Bardic Inspiration
(d8), rolling a Bardic Inspiration die and subtracting
the number rolled from the creature’s roll. She can
choose to use this feature after the creature makes
its roll.

108
Elgis Satwyn
Medium Humanoid (High Elf), neutral (Bard) Advanced (CR 3, 700 XP)
Elgis Satwyn was born into a family of soldiers, but he Armor Class 16 (Leather Armor)
found his true passion in tales and poetry. He became Hit Points 53
a famous bard known for inspiring his crew. Despite Speed 30 ft.
his family’s expectations, he left home to travel the
world with his sword and music to bring joy and jus- STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
tice to those he met. He loves entertaining people and
hopes to change the world with his unique skills. Elgis 8 (-1) 18 (+4) 12 (+1) 9 (-1) 12 (+1) 18 (+4)
has learned to embrace his dual nature as a bard and a
battlemaster, using his talents to protect the innocent Saving Throws DEX +8, CHA +8
and inspire the hopeless. Skills History +3, Performance +8
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 14
Languages Common, Elven

Standard (CR 2, 450 XP) Spellcasting. Elgis a 7th-level spellcaster. His spell-
casting ability is Wisdom (spell save DC 16, +7 to
Armor Class 16 (Leather Armor) hit with spell attacks). He has the following spells
Hit Points 31 prepared:
Speed 30 ft. Cantrips (at will): message
1st level (4 slots): healing word, hideous laughter
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA 2nd level (3 slots): enlarge/reduce
3rd level (2 slots): hypnotic pattern
8 (-1) 18 (+4) 12 (+1) 9 (-1) 12 (+1) 16 (+3) 4th level (2 slots): dimension door
Saving Throws DEX +7, CHA +8
Actions
Skills History +2, Performance +6
Multiattack. Elgis can make two melee attacks: one
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 14
flourish and one shortsword.
Languages Common, Elven
Rapier. Melee Weapon Attack: +8 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
one target. Hit: 8 (1d8 + 4) slashing damage.
Spellcasting. Elgis a 5th-level spellcaster. His spell-
Sword Flourish. Melee Weapon Attack: +8 to hit,
casting ability is Wisdom (spell save DC 14, +6 to
reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 9 (2d8 + 4) slashing da-
hit with spell attacks). He has the following spells
mage. The bard can push the target up to 5 feet away.
prepared:
Cantrips (at will): message
1st level (4 slots): healing word, hideous laughter
2nd level (3 slots): enlarge/reduce
3rd level (2 slots): hypnotic pattern

Actions
Multiattack. Elgis can make two melee attacks: one
flourish and one shortsword.
Shortsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5
ft., one target. Hit: 8 (1d6 + 4) slashing damage.
Sword Flourish. Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit,
reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (2d6 + 4) slashing da-
mage. The bard can push the target up to 5 feet away.

109
Elantys Shadowblade
Medium humanoid (Half-elf), neutral good (Monk) Advanced (CR 3, 700 XP)
Elantys took the best of his elven and human ancestries, a
Armor Class 17 (Unarmored Defense)
heritage that he is proud of. From childhood he displayed
Hit Points 57
a deep respect for nature and a thirst for knowledge. Un-
Speed 45 ft.
der the guidance of his mother, an herbalist, he learned
the art of healing with natural remedies. Tragically, his
village was ravaged by bandits and he was sold into slave- STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
ry, but fate intervened. A benevolent monk purchased 12 (+1) 16 (+3) 12 (+1) 12 (+1) 18 (+4) 8 (-1)
his freedom and took him under his wing. In the monas-
tery, Elantys studied martial prowess and improved his Saving Throws STR +5, DEX +7
spiritual fortitude, emerging as an impressive warrior and Skills Acrobatics +7, Medicine +4
a wise healer. Now, he roams the land… Ever-ready to Senses Passive Perception 16
aid those in need, and his name has become synonymous Languages Common, Elvish
with kindness and compassion.
Greater Healing Touch. Once on their turn, Elantys
can target an ally within 5 ft. of him to restore 14 HP
Standard (CR 2, 450 XP) and remove one of the following conditions: Blinded,
Deafened, Paralyzed, Poisoned, or Stunned.
Armor Class 16 (Unarmored Defense)
Hit Points 33 Actions
Speed 40 ft. Multiattack. Elantys can make two unarmed strike
attacks.
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA Unarmed Strike. Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit,
reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d6+3) bludgeoning
12 (+1) 16 (+3) 12 (+1) 12 (+1) 16 (+3) 8 (-1)
damage.
Stunning strike (3/day). Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to
Saving Throws STR +4, DEX +6
hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 6 (1d6+3) bludgeoning
Skills Acrobatics +6, Medicine +3
damage. The target must succeed on a DC13 Consti-
Senses Passive Perception 14
tution saving throw or be stunned until the end of your
Languages Common, Elvish
next turn.
Healing Touch. Once on their turn, Elantys can res-
tore 10 HP to an ally within 5 ft. of him.

Actions
Multiattack. He makes two unarmed attacks.
Unarmed Strike. Melee Weapon Attack:
+6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 7
(1d6+4) bludgeoning damage.
Stunning strike (3/day). Melee
Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach
5 ft., one target. Hit: 6 (1d6+3)
bludgeoning damage. The tar-
get must succeed on a DC13
Constitution saving throw or
be stunned until the end of
your next turn.

110
Nalani Sunshimmer
Medium humanoid (Tiefling), chaotic good (Cleric)
Nalani Sunshimmer was born into a wealthy and influential
Tiefling family. Manipulative and deceitful, her family raised
her with the intent to use her devilish features for political
gain. Their machinations reached a tumultuous peak when
she was used as a pawn in a political power struggle that re-
sulted in the deaths of many innocent people… Devastated, she
fled her family’s control and found solace in devotion to the
god of life. As a path for redemption, she has doned the cowl of
a cleric, travelling the world to use her abilities to right wrongs
and aid those in need… All while carrying the haunting burden
of her past actions.
Standard (CR 2, 450 XP)
Armor Class 15 (Chain Mail)
Hit Points 31 (7d8)
Speed 30 ft.
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
16 (+3) 14 (+2) 10 (+0) 12 (+1) 14 (+2) 12 (+1)
Saving Throws Wis +4, Cha +3
Skills Medicine +3, Religion +3
Damage Resistances Fire
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 13
Languages Common, Infernal
Life Adept. Whenever Nalani casts a spell to restore hit
points to a creature, it regains an additional 5 HP.
Spellcasting. Senara is a 5th-level spellcaster. Her spell-
casting ability is Wisdom (spell save DC 13, +5 to hit with
spell attacks). She has the following spells prepared:
Cantrips (at will): light, sacred flame
1st level (4 slots): bless, cure wounds
2nd level (3 slots): lesser restoration, hold person
3rd level (2 slots): spirit guardians
Actions
Mace. Melee weapon attack: +5 to hit, reach 5ft., one
target. Hit: 7 (1d8 + 3)
Turn Undead (1/day). As an action, Nalani presents her
holy symbol and speaks a prayer censuring the undead.
Each undead that can see or hear her within 30 feet must
make a DC 13 Wisdom saving throw. If the creature fails
its saving throw, it is turned for 1 minute or until it takes
any damage.
A turned creature must spend its turns trying to move as
far away from Nalani as it can, and it can’t willingly move
to a space within 30 feet of her. It also can’t take reactions.
For its action, it can use only the Dash action or try to es-
cape from an effect that prevents it from moving. If there’s
nowhere to move, the creature can use the Dodge action.
Preserve Life (1/day). Evoking healing energy, Nalani can
restore a number of hit points equal to 25 HP, dividing
those hit points among any creatures within 30 ft. of her.
111
Advanced (CR 3, 700 XP)
Armor Class 16 (Chain Mail)
Hit Points 45 (10d8)
Speed 30 ft.
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
16 (+3) 16 (+3) 10 (+0) 12 (+1) 16 (+3) 12 (+1)
Saving Throws Wis +6, Cha +4
Skills Medicine +4, Religion +4
Damage Resistances Fire
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 15
Languages Common, Infernal
Life Adept. Whenever Nalani casts a spell of 1st level
or higher to restore hit points to a creature, her healing
spells are more effective, causing the creature to regain
an additional 7 HP.
Spellcasting. Senara is a 7th-level spellcaster. Her
spellcasting ability is Wisdom (spell save DC 14, +6
to hit with spell attacks). She has the following spells
prepared:
Cantrips (at will): light, sacred flame
1st level (4 slots): bless, cure wounds
2nd level (3 slots): lesser restoration, hold person
3rd level (2 slots): spirit uardians
4th level (1 slot): freedom of movement
Actions
Mace. Melee weapon attack: +7 to hit, reach 5ft., one
target. Hit: 7 (1d8 + 3)
Turn Undead (2/day). As an action, Nalani presents
her holy symbol and speaks a prayer censuring the
undead. Each undead that can see or hear her within 30
feet must make a DC 15 Wisdom saving throw. If the
creature fails its saving throw, it is turned for 1 minute
or until it takes any damage.
A turned creature must spend its turns trying to move
as far away from Nalani as it can, and it can’t willingly
move to a space within 30 feet of her. It also can’t take
reactions. For its action, it can use only the Dash action
or try to escape from an effect that prevents it from
moving. If there’s nowhere to move, the creature can
use the Dodge action. A creature controlled by a player
cannot be turned.
Preserve Life (2/day). Evoking healing energy, Nala-
ni can restore a number of hit points equal to 25 HP,
dividing those hit points among any creatures within 30
ft. of her.
Biblius Tome Advanced (CR 3, 700 XP)
Medium humanoid (Psionic), lawful good (Cleric of fire)
Armor Class 13 (Leather Armor)
Biblius Tome is a devoted follower of the Sons of Hit Points 49 (9d8 + 9)
Knowledge, and his faith burns with a fierce intensity that Speed 30 ft.
few could match. As the Chief Librarian of the temple,
he oversees his role as not just to collect knowledge, but STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
share it to the world. He dedicates a significant portion of
his time to travel, encounter scholars and gather strange 12 (+1) 14 (+2) 12 (+1) 10 (+0) 20 (+5) 12 (+1)
items to study them later in his library. He also fervently
hunts those who hide the truth, channeling divine flames Saving Throws WIS +6, CHA +4
to defeat this evil wherever it may lurk. Whether in battle Skills Arcana +3, Religion +3
or in the pursuit of knowledge, Biblius is a fierce character Damage Resistances Psychic
to be reckoned with, and his unwavering faith makes him Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 13
a true hero among his people. Languages Common

Shroud of Flame. When a creature within 5 feet of

Standard (CR 2, 450 XP) Biblius hits him with a melee attack. The attacking
creature takes 1d8 fire damage.
Armor Class 13 (Leather Armor) Spellcasting. Biblius is a 7th-level spellcaster. His
Hit Points 27 (5d8+5) spellcasting ability is Wisdom (spell save DC 16, +8
Speed 30 ft. to hit with spell attacks). He has the following spells
prepared:
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA Cantrips (at will): light, sacred flame
1st level (4 slots): burning hands, faerie fire,
12 (+1) 14 (+2) 12 (+1) 10 (+0) 18 (+4) 12 (+1) cure wounds
2nd level (3 slots): moonbeam
Saving Throws WIS +6, CHA +4 3rd level (2 slots): spirit guardians
Skills Arcana +3, Religion +3
4th level (1 slot): guardian of faith
Damage Resistances Psychic
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 13
Languages Common Actions
Mace. Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5ft., one
Shroud of Flame. When a creature within 5 feet of target. Hit: 6 (1d8 + 2) plus 4 (1d8) fire damage.
Biblius hits him with a melee attack. The attacking Turn Undead (2/day). As an action,
creature takes 1d8 fire damage. each undead within 30 feet of
Spellcasting. Biblius is a 5th-level spellcaster. His Biblius that can see or hear him
spellcasting ability is Wisdom (spell save DC 15, +7 must make a DC 16 Wisdom
to hit with spell attacks). He has the following spells saving throw or become turned
prepared: for 1 minute or until it takes
Cantrips (at will): light, sacred flame any damage.
1st level (4 slots): burning hands, faerie fire, A turned creature must spend
cure wounds its turns trying to move as far
2nd level (3 slots): moonbeam
away from Biblius as it can,
3rd level (2 slots): spirit guardians
and it can’t willingly move to a
Actions space within 30 feet of him. It
Mace. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5ft., one also can’t take reactions. For
target. Hit: 6 (1d8 + 2) + 3 (1d6) fire damage. its action, it can use only the
Turn Undead (1/day). As an action, each undead Dash action or try to escape
within 30 feet of Biblius that can see or hear him from an effect that prevents it
must make a DC 15 Wisdom saving throw or beco- from moving. If there’s nowhere
me turned for 1 minute or until it takes any damage. to move, the creature can use
A turned creature must spend its turns trying to the Dodge action. A creature
move as far away from Biblius as it can, and it can’t controlled by a player cannot be
willingly move to a space within 30 feet of him. It turned.
also can’t take reactions. For its action, it can use
only the Dash action or try to escape from an effect
that prevents it from moving. If there’s nowhere to
move, the creature can use the Dodge action. A crea-
ture controlled by a player cannot be turned.

112
Elenis Shadowblade
Medium humanoid (Elf), Chaotic (Warlock)

Elenis Shadowblade was born into a family of powerful

elven mages. However, her fascination with dark magic
led her down a perilous path, making a pact with a power-
ful entity from the Shadowfell to gain eldritch powers.
Her family disowned her, and she was forced to wander
the land as a scoundrel… She had to survive, relying on
her newfound powers. As she grew to understand the cost
of her actions, she sought, in vain, a way to end her pact.
Her patron’s henchmen are tracking her from time to
time, and she is forced to flee continuously. Elenis hopes
to find a way to escape her twisted fate.

Standard (CR 2, 450 XP)

Advanced (CR 3, 700 XP)
Armor Class 12 (Leather Armor)
Armor Class 12 (Leather Armor)
Hit Points 33 (6d8 +8)
Hit Points 44 (8d8 +8)
Speed 30 ft.
Speed 30 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
8 (-1) 12 (+1) 12 (+1) 14 (+2) 9 (-1) 18 (+4)
8 (-1) 12 (+1) 12 (+1) 14 (+2) 9 (-1) 20 (+5)
Saving Throws WIS +2, CHA +7
Saving Throws WIS +2, CHA +7
Skills Arcana +3, Investigation+3
Skills Arcana +3, Investigation+3
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 9
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 9
Languages Common
Languages Common
Actions
Actions
Multiattack. Elenis can make two Forcebolt attacks
Multiattack. Elenis can make three Forcebolt attacks
or one Forcebolt and one Psychic Explosion.
or two Forcebolt and one Psychic Explosion.
Forcebolt. Ranged Spell Attack: +7 to hit, reach
Forcebolt. Ranged Spell Attack: +9 to hit, reach
120ft., one target. Hit: 8 (1d10 + 4) force damage.
120ft., one target. Hit: 9 (1d10 + 5) force damage.
The target can be pushed up to 10 feet away from you
The target can be pushed up to 10 feet away from you
in a straight line.
in a straight line.
Psychic Explosion. Each creature in a 5-foot-radius
Psychic Explosion. Each creature in a 5-foot-radius
sphere centered on that point must make a DC 15
sphere centered on that point must make a DC 16
Intelligence saving throw. Each creature receives 2d8
Intelligence saving throw. Each creature receives
psychic damage on failed save.
2d10 psychic damage on failed save.
Dagger. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5ft.,
Dagger. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5ft.,
one target. Hit: 3 (1d4 + 1) piercing damage.
one target. Hit: 3 (1d4 + 1) piercing damage.

113
Erkas Silvercrown
Medium humanoid (High Elf), Lawful good (Wizard)

Erkas Silvercrown was born to a powerful family of elven

wizards in the heart of the Great Forest, where the magic
of the Feywild flowed freely. A magic prodigy from a
young age, their magical talents meshed perfectly with
their great thirst for adventure. Stumbling upon a nearby
village under the control of a powerful evil warlock, Erkas
knew they must help, but soon realized they couldn’t de-
feat the powerful caster in a direct confrontation. Instead,
Erkas posed as a wandering merchant devoid of magic
to enter the village. A simple merchant would be below
the notice of the warlock, thus allowing Erkas to launch a
successful surprise attack, defeat the warlock and beco-
me a hero to the villagers. Though other dark forces may
rise, Erkas is confident they can overcome any challenge.
Advanced (CR 3, 700 XP)
Armor Class 15 (Mage Armor)
Standard (CR 2, 450 XP)
Hit Points 38
Speed 30 ft.
Armor Class 15 (Mage Armor)
Hit Points 22
Speed 30 ft. STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
10 (+0) 14 (+2) 10 (+0) 20 (+5) 12 (+1) 10 (+0)
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
Saving Throws INT +9, WIS +5
10 (+0) 14 (+2) 10 (+0) 18 (+4) 12 (+1) 10 (+0)
Skills Arcana +9, Insight +9
Senses Passive Perception 12
Saving Throws INT +7, WIS +4
Languages Common, Elven
Skills Arcana +7, Insight +3
Senses Passive Perception 12
Careful Casting. When Erkas casts an evocation
Languages Common, Elven
spell they may choose any number of creatures. The
chosen creatures automatically succeed on their
Careful Casting. When Erkas casts an evocation
saving throws against the spell, and they take no
spell they may choose any number of creatures. The
damage if they would normally take half damage on a
chosen creatures automatically succeed on their
successful save.
saving throws against the spell, and they take no
Spellcasting. Erkas is a 7th-level spellcaster. Their
damage if they would normally take half damage on a
spellcasting ability is Intelligence (spell save DC 17,
successful save.
+9 to hit with spell attacks). They have the following
spells prepared:
Spellcasting. Erkas is a 3rd-level spellcaster. Their
Cantrips (at will): firebolt, chill touch
spellcasting ability is Intelligence (spell save DC 15,
1st level (4 slots): chromatic orb, shield
+7 to hit with spell attacks). They have the following
2nd level (3 slots): web
spells prepared:
3rd level (2 slots): lightning bolt, fireball
Cantrips (at will): firebolt, chill touch
4th level (1 slot): greater invisibility
1st level (4 slots): thunderwave, shield
2nd level (3 slots): web
Actions
Dagger. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
Actions
one target. Hit: 4 (1d4 + 2) slashing damage.
Dagger. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
one target. Hit: 4 (1d4 + 2) slashing damage.

114
 Advanced (CR 3, 700 XP)
Iravis
Medium Humanoid (High Elf), Chaotic good (Wizard Armor Class 18 (Leather Armor)
Bladedancer) Hit Points 47
Speed 40 ft.
Iravis was born into a wealthy family of elves, but quickly
grew restless of their indulgent lifestyle. His natural talent STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
for both magic and swordplay led him to become a re- 8 (-1) 1 (+3) 12 (+1) 18 (+4) 8 (-1) 10 (+0)
nowned figure throughout the land under a stagename of
sorts: Iravis the Swift. His rebellious nature often placed Saving Throws INT +9, CON +5, WIS +5
him in opposition with authorities, as he had a habit of Skills Acrobatics +9, Arcana +9
acting before thinking, frequently leading him to trouble. Senses Passive Perception 14
Although Iravis became a legendary figure to the common Languages Common, Elven
people, it was not enough to shield him from the suspi-
cion and mistrust from those in power. He lived a life Spellcasting. Iravis is a 5th-level spellcaster. Her
filled with constant danger and excitement, never compro- spellcasting ability is Intelligence (spell save DC 16,
mising his beliefs or backing down. Iravis’ determination +8 to hit with spell attacks). He has the following
and expertise would ultimately earn him a place in history spells prepared:
as one of the greatest adventurers of this era. Cantrips (at will): poison spray, acid splash
1st level (4 slots): magic missile, shield
2nd level (3 slots): misty step, flaming sphere
3rd level (2 slots): vampiric touch
Standard (CR 2, 450 XP)

Armor Class 17 (Natural armor)

Actions
Multiattack. Iravis makes two attacks, one of each.
Hit Points 27 (5d8+5)
Rapier. Melee Weapon Attack: +8 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
Speed 40 ft.
one target. Hit: 8 (1d8 + 4) slashing damage.
Lightning Blade. Melee Weapon Attack: +8 to hit,
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (2d6) Lightning damage.
8 (-1) 16 (+3) 12 (+1) 18 (+4) 8 (-1) 10 (+0) If the target willingly moves 5 feet or more, the target
takes 3d6 Lightning damage on their next round.
Saving Throws INT +8, CON +5, WIS +5
Skills Acrobatics +7, Arcana +8
Senses Passive Perception 12
Languages Common, Elven

Spellcasting. Iravis is a 4th-level spellcaster. Their

spellcasting ability is Intelligence (spell save DC 14,
+6 to hit with spell attacks). They have the following
spells prepared:
Cantrips (at will): poison spray, acid splash
1st level (4 slots): magic missile, shield
2nd level (2 slots): misty step, flaming sphere

Actions
Shortsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5
ft., one target. Hit: 6 (1d6 + 3) slashing damage.

115
Arthus Draco Advanced (CR 3, 700 XP)
Medium Humanoid (Human), Neutral ( Sorcerer)
Armor Class 15 (Natural Armor)
Arthus Draco was born into a family of wealthy sorcerers Hit Points 37 (5d8 + 15)
of dragon lineage, showing prodigious magical poten- Speed 30 ft.
tial from a young age. Unfortunately, Arthus struggled
with managing his raw power. Considered a hazard, he STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
isolated himself for 1 year and gained a strong willpower
8 (-1) 14 (+2) 16 (+3) 10 (+0) 12 (+1) 16 (+3)
through meditation to control his magic powers. Upon
his return, he discovered his family had been ruthlessly
Saving Throws CON +6, CHA +6
killed, fueling his thirst for revenge against the power-
Skills Arcana +3, Intimidation +6
hungry sorcerers who perpetrated the massacre. With
Resistance Lightning, thunder
his combined mastery of willpower and sorcery, Arthus is
Senses Passive Perception 14
resolutely holding onto his moral convictions and never
Languages Common, Draconic, Abyssal
letting his lust for vengeance turn him towards male-
volence.
Fast Caster. Arthus can cast a firebolt as a bonus
action every turn.
Spellcasting. Arthus is a 5th-level spellcaster. His
spellcasting ability is Intelligence (spell save DC 15,
+7 to hit with spell attacks). Arthus has the following
Standard (CR 2, 450 XP) spells prepared:
Cantrips (at will): Firebolt
Armor Class 15 (Natural Armor) 1st level (4 slots): Magic Missile, Shield
Hit Points 26 (4d8 +8) 2nd level (3 slots): Shatter, Grease, Misty Step
Speed 30 ft. 3rd level (2 slots): Sleet Storm

Actions
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
Dagger. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
8 (-1) 14 (+2) 14 (+2) 10 (+0) 12 (+1) 16 (+3) one target. Hit: 4 (1d4 + 2) slashing damage.
Light Crossbow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +5 to
Saving Throws CON +4, CHA +6 hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 6 (1d8 + 2) slashing
Skills Arcana +4, Intimidation +6 damage.
Senses Passive Perception 14 Storm Breath (1/day). Draco exhales a blast of elec-
Languages Common, Draconic, Abyssal tricity in a 20-foot cone. Each creature in that area
must make a DC 15 Dexterity saving throw, taking
Fast Caster. Arthus can cast a firebolt as a bonus 18 (4d8) thunder damage on a failed save, or half as
action every turn. much damage on a successful one.
Spellcasting. Arthus is a 4th-level spellcaster. His
spellcasting ability is Intelligence (spell save DC 14,
+6 to hit with spell attacks). He has the following
spells prepared:
Cantrips (at will): Firebolt
1st level (4 slots): Magic Missile, Shield
2nd level (2 slots): Shatter, Misty Step

Actions
Dagger. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
one target. Hit: 4 (1d4 + 2) slashing damage.
Light Crossbow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +4 to hit,
reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 6 (1d8 + 2) slashing da-
mage.

116
Thareth Vyrarish
Medium humanoid (Dragonfolk), Chaotic (Druid)

Thareth Vyrarish was born into a clan of Dragonfolk in

a dense forest, where they learned how to communi-
cate with animals, how to tend to the forest, and how to
harness the power of nature to heal the sick and woun-
ded. Thareth’s family and clan members were committed
to protecting the forest and all its creatures. However,
when Thareth was only a teenager, their clan was ambu-
shed and attacked by a group of human poachers. The
attack left Thareth’s family and clan members dead or
dying, and Thareth alone, filled with grief and hatred for
humans. Thareth wandered the forest for years, surviving
off the land and honing their druidic abilities. Eventually,
Thareth realized that their anger was only causing more
destruction and decided to focus their energy on protec- Advanced (CR 3, 700 XP)
ting and healing the forest instead.
Armor Class 12 (Hide Armor)
Hit Points 45 (7d8+14)
Standard (CR 2, 450 XP) Speed 30 ft.
Armor Class 12 (Hide Armor)
Hit Points 38 STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
Speed 30 ft. 12 (+1) 10 (+0) 14 (+2) 14 (+2) 20 (+5) 12 (+1)

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA Saving Throws Wis +7, Int +5
Skills Medicine +3, Nature +3
12 (+1) 10 (+0) 14 (+2) 14 (+2) 18 (+4) 12 (+1)
Damage Resistances Psychic, Cold
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 13
Saving Throws WIS +7, INT +5
Languages Common
Skills Medicine +3, Nature +3
Damage Resistances Psychic, Cold
Emergency Shapechange (1/day). Thareth trans-
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 13
forms into a wolf when he reaches 0 HP.
Languages Common
Cold Spell. Thareth’s spells carry a chill, changing
their damage type to cold.
Emergency Shapechange (1/day). When reduced to
Spellcasting. Thareth is a 7th-level spellcaster. Their
0 HP for the first time today, Thareth transforms into
spellcasting ability is Wisdom (spell save DC 17, +9 to
a wolf with 1 HP.
hit with spell attacks). They have the following spells
Cold Spell. Thareth’s spells carry a chill, changing
prepared:
their damage type to cold.
Cantrips (at will): Shillelagh
Spellcasting. Thareth is a 5th-level spellcaster. Their
1st level (4 slots): Faerie Fire, Entangle, Healing
spellcasting ability is Wisdom (spell save DC 15, +7
Word
to hit with spell attacks). They have the following
2nd level (4 slots): Flaming Sphere, Heat Metal
spells prepared:
3rd level (2 slots): Plant Growth
Cantrips (at will): Shillelagh
4th level (1 slot): Freedom of Movement
1st level (4 slots): Faerie Fire, Entangle, Burning
Hands
2nd level (3 slots): Flaming Sphere
Actions
Claws. Melee Weapon Attack: +9 to hit, reach 5ft., one
3rd level (2 slots): Plant Growth
target. Hit: 9 (1d8 + 5 ) plus 3 (1d6) poison
Cold Breath (1/day). Thareth exhales a blast of free-
Actions
zing wind in a 20-foot cone. Each creature in that area
Claws. Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5ft.,
must make a DC 15 Dexterity saving throw, taking
one target. Hit: 8 (1d8 + 4 ) plus 3 (1d6) poison.
22 (4d8 + 4) cold damage on a failed save, or half as
Cold Breath (1/day). Thareth exhales a blast of
much damage on a successful one.
freezing wind in a 20-foot cone. Each creature in that
area must make a DC 15 Dexterity saving throw, ta-
king 18 (3d8+4) cold damage on a failed save, or half
as much damage on a successful one.

117
Blessings
Blessings enhance the power and uniqueness of the
attackers besieging your players by providing them with
additional abilities and powers. These blessings may also
be applied to other NPCs or monsters within your game
to add depth and variety to encounters, increase encoun-
ter challenge and of course, make for more dangerous
combats.
The below list is sorted by heroic category: Scout, Tank,
Support and Area Spellcasters. However don’t let the
categories limit you, a Blessing can be applied to any
attacking hero, NPC or monster up to a maximum of 2
blessings.
Tip:During the story, you will find that we’ve added
blessings like heroic titles “the Zealous” or “the Battle
Focused”. The first example appears in chapter 4 of the
story for Picket Fence as “Picket Fence the Discreet”.
Scout
Well Equipped. For the next day, the hero has a +2 bo-
nus to the attack rolls and damage rolls.
Zealous. On their turn, when the hero scores a critical hit
with a melee weapon or reduces a creature to 0 hit points,
they can make one melee weapon attack as a bonus
action.
Martial Artist. Once on their turn, this hero can exchange
his position with a creature it just hit with a melee attack,
without provoking any attacks of opportunity, and deals
an extra 5 damage to that target.
Discreet (2/day). This hero starts any combat invisible,
becoming visible if they attack or cast a spell. The hero
may also spend its bonus action to become invisible if no
enemy is within 10 feet of them.
Tank
Hale and Hearty. This hero has a strong body, adding 10
HP to their maximum HP.
Grappler’s Grip (2/day). Whenever this creature success-
fully hits with a melee attack it can automatically grapple
(escape DC 14) the target. The grappler has advantage
against any grappled creature. The grappler can grapple
only one creature at a time.
Bodyguard. Whenever an ally within 5 ft. of the hero
receives damage from an attack, spell or effect they can
spend their reaction to exchange positions with that ally
118
and become the new target of the damage. If the hero
has resistance to the damage type being received, it is
adjusted as usual.
Strong Leader. This hero comes with 2 bandits (SRD
page 162) that move on the same initiative order as the
hero.
Support
Arcane Shield (2/day). When an attacker the hero can
see within 30 ft. successfully hits an ally with an attack,
they can use their reaction to halve the attack’s damage.
Windmaker. Whenever this hero casts a spell targeting
an ally, it can choose to harness the raw magical energies
and manifest a potent gale to push any number of me-
dium or small creatures adjacent to the targeted ally 5 ft.
away from them.
The direction of the push is at the caster’s discretion.
Each creature, whether friend or foe, can be subjected to
this effect. If there is no unoccupied space for a creature
to be shoved to (such as a wall, ledge, or other obstruc-
tion) the creature stops moving, but takes no damage
from the blocked movement.
Inspiring. Whenever the hero casts a spell that targets an
allied creature, that creature is inspired until the end of
their next turn. Whenever the inspired creature makes an
attack roll or a saving throw before the spell ends, the tar-
get can roll a d4 and add the number rolled to the Attack
roll or saving throw.
Battle Focused. Whenever the hero casts a spell that
targets an ally, that ally deals an extra 5 damage the next
time they hit a creature with any attack.
Area Spellcaster
Mage Slayer. Whenever the hero hits a creature that
has magic slots, it can inflict an additional 1d8 lightning
damage.
Flickering Flame. Whenever this character receives
damage, it may spend its reaction to deal 2d6 fire damage
to one creature within 5 ft. of them as they teleport to a
point 15 ft. away.
Runic Plated. A magical force protects this character and
makes them resistant to attacks, adding + 2 to their AC.
Counter Magician (2/day). The character may spend
their reaction to allow a creature within 30 ft. to reroll a
failed saving roll against a spell.
Twisted Fate: Chronicles of the Endarkened
This campaign blends dark humor with high-stakes in-
trigue and is designed for characters of level 3 to 10. The
trials and tribulations found within allow for character
growth and development through navigating complex so-
cial and moral dilemmas, while also letting them revel in
the absurdity of serving an evil cult and all of the comedic
mishaps that can come with it.
So it’s time to dust off your dark robes and invite your
players to become new initiates of the Endarkened Bro-
therhood!
Chapter 1: The Wedding Gift
The players are members of a secretive evil cult known
only as the Endarkened Brotherhood. As an act of re-
venge against King Boric of Muln, they have been tasked
to sabotage a royal wedding between Princess Charity
and the Prince Frawd of Clangdia. How? Gain entry into
the castle, find and ruin the wedding dress and then make
their escape. This should be an easy job, but this is the
Brotherhood we’re talking about...
Chapter 2: What happens in Shipton…
After their lair is discovered, the party must relocate the
entire chapter to the nearby town of Hatbury. Finding a
suitable new place of operations is all well and good, but
not with rumours of a too-quiet chapter of the Endarke-
119
ned Brotherhood in Skipton. Tasked to investigate this
chapter they will need to locate the branch’s leader and
convince him to return to speak with the High Warlock.
All while staying under the radar of the pious members of
the Brotherhood of Light and the mysterious Rouge.
Chapter 3: Knowledge is our Enemy
Not wanting to let the Brotherhood of Light grow their
influence, the party is given a new mission: infiltrate the
Library of Hatbury belonging to the Sons of Knowledge
and steal away a mysterious artifact. They are free to find
their own methods to enter the library and navigate its
vaults, but must also navigate some serious hiccups in the
plan when they discover that the artifact is an unmovable
silver statue!
Chapter 4: Take Control of a District
In order to increase the range of the cults’ influence (and
grow their coffers!) the High Warlock orders the party to
seize control of one district in Muln: the Docks, the Stalls,
or the Gutters. Each district presents unique challenges
and rewards. However after gaining control, a rebellion
erupts within their ranks, and the party must subdue
various groups of allies-turned-rebels.

Chapter 5: The Bones or the Oak
To gather allies for the battle against the Brotherhood
of Light, the party must travel to the Cursed Forest and
choose which faction to align with: the Restless or Na-
ture’s Wrath. Along the way they’ll face obstacles, inclu-
ding a Mulnian patrol, a confrontation with a leader of the
Brotherhood of Light, and a crucial battle where the party
must either protect a ritual or disrupt it.
Chapter 6: A Rat Problem
There’s nothing quite like seizing an opportunity, and it’s
a two-for-one on their next mission to intercept a caravan
in the Hatbury Mountains and capture the first Princess
Muln, Patience. The disappearance of Princess Patience
should lead to worsening political tensions between
120
Muln and Clandgia and as they ambush the caravan, the
actions of the three suspects during the attack will offer
crucial clues to identify the traitor within their midst.
Chapter 7: Control of the Kingdom
The High Warlock’s plan to replace King Boric with a
doppelganger to seize control of the kingdom reaches
its climax. The party infiltrates the king’s camp but faces
opposition from the Brotherhood of Light, led by the Red
Sisters. As they close in on capturing the king, a divine
intervention thwarts their plans and confronts the party
with a moral dilemma: support the High Warlock in the
final battle or let him perish and assume control of the
organization themselves!
 Chapter 1: The Wedding Gift
Players are part of an evil cult charged with infiltrating
and disrupting a royal wedding. The King’s daughter is to
be married and the cult is seeking to exact revenge upon
the king for his persecution of them. They must infiltrate
the castle as members of a circus troupe, find the prin-
cess’s dressing room and sabotage her wedding dress.
The Brief
You are gathered in a dark, underground chamber with
the other members of the Endarkened Brotherhood.
The meager light cast from the burning brazier creates a
foreboding, atmospheric effect but does little to stave off
the icy chill. When all are gathered, the High Warlock and
leader of your collective steps forward and you watch as
the firelight catches the steely mask beneath his hood.
“My brothers…” he begins, before a sudden cough inter-
rupts. Everyone glances towards the source of the sound,
a huge stooped figure whose robe fails to come below
their furry knees and does little to hide their bestial face.
The High Warlock sighs and goes on.
“My brother AND sisters.” He glares again at the
stooped figure, “We are gathered here today to address a
grievous wrong—and exact revenge!”
“Oh, is it the Elucidated Brethren of the Hidden light?” ex-
claims an excited voice. “They outed me in the street last
week, pointed at me and called me a child of darkness!
I’ve still got the bruises from the villager’s tomatoes and
me mum hasn’t spoken to me since!” The voice emanates
from a short, burly fellow whose robe trails on the ground
but is straining to stay buttoned across a broad gut.
Realizing he was interrupting he gives an audible gulp
before trying to blend back into the group, without much
success.
Narrowed eyes peering from over his mask, the
High Warlock’s displeasure is palpable. Ne-
vertheless, he continues on, “King Boric of
Muln— a name I’m sure we all remember—
is hosting a royal wedding for his daughter,
Princess Charity. His persecution of our
faith is an insult to the Dark One and this
is our chance to repay that debt.”
“I spent weeks sleeping in hedges and
haystacks while his Whitecoats prodded
and poked their spears into every nook
and cranny looking for us,” mutters
another hooded figure, but the High
Warlock has had enough.
“WE WILL REPAY THAT DEBT IN
121
FULL! We will infiltrate this wedding and
we will find the Princess’s dressing room
and exact the ultimate price.”
“Murder?!” gasps the collective voices of
those assembled. Beneath the mask,
the High Warlock grins, and his eyes
seem to flash with sudden fire.
“No…. We will ruin her dress.”
Planning is Everything
The High Warlock has handpicked the party to enact this
plan. He conveys the following information while placing
the map of the castle in front of them (Map 1).
The day of the wedding, players will go to the market
to collect an invitation on behalf of Joyful Monsters. Your
contact is a young boy with golden eyes; he has already
been paid. Ask him if he can give you “the special enve-
lope” and he will understand.
The High Warlock has brewed a foul-smelling, sludgy
potion called Yarrow’s Unwashable Concoction (YUC)
which can be applied to the dress to permanently ruin it.
The front gates are guarded, but fellow members of the
Brotherhood have secured invitations for the party, under
the guise of a circus troupe.
The groom, Prince Frawd, has a fascination with
monsters and other creatures and so the king has invited
a circus troupe and the wedding is a masquerade ball.
Merchants, adventurers and magicians are among
those invited to the festivities.
The doors to the Princess’ rooms are guarded by
a magical bodyguard, who is known to be skilled at
remaining unseen and difficult to fool. They should
be avoided entirely or overcome quietly.
Allow the players time to plan their infiltration
and come up with interesting and unique ideas. If
possible, facilitate these ideas and the players will
enjoy feeling like their creativity is being rewar-
ded.
Part 1: The Market
The Market square is bustling with activity in preparation
for the Princess’ upcoming nuptials. Vendors adorned with
blue scarves are crowded together, haggling and hawking
their wares to anyone who passes by. With a DC 12 Intel-
ligence (Investigation) check, the players may find the boy,
surrounded by three merchant guards and their leader.
They are intimidating the boy to empty his pockets…
be anarchy! Empty your pockets so we can collect your
fine. It’s a fair punishment!”
The boy tries to resist and the merchants overpower him,
finding the envelope with the invitation.
If the players take too long to locate the boy, the mer-
chants have already emptied his pockets, including the
invitation, and they find him on the ground crying instead.

“You come to sell your flowers on the market but you don’t
respect the rules. Why don’t you wear a blue scarf like the
guild asks? On Tuesdays all the sellers have to wear blue!”
A second member adds, “If everyone did like you it would
When confronted, the four shopkeepers refuse to hand
over the invitations to the players. They feel so strongly
regarding this that they will even move to fight the
players, but will surrender when half of them have been
bested.

Merchant Guard Merchant Leader

Medium Humanoid (any race), Lawful Medium Humanoid (any race), Lawful

Armor Class 12 (leather armor) Armor Class 16 (chainmail armor)

Hit Points 19 (3d8 + 6) Hit Points 27 (6d8)
Speed 30 ft. Speed 30 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
14 (+2) 12 (+1) 14 (+2) 10(+0) 14 (+2) 10 (+0) 14 (+2) 12 (+1) 10 (+0) 10 (+0) 14 (+2) 12 (+1)

Senses Passive Perception 14 Senses Passive Perception 14

Languages Common Languages Common
Challenge ½, 100 XP Challenge 1, 200 XP

Actions Leadership (Recharge 5-6). One creature the ser-

Heavy Mace. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach
5 ft., one target. Hit: 8 (1d10 + 2) abludgeoning
damage.
geant can see within 30 feet can use its reaction to
make a melee attack if it can hear the sergeant.
Actions
Multiattack. The Leader makes two attacks.
Heavy Mace. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5
ft., one target. Hit: 8 (1d10 + 2) bludgeoning damage.

The merchants have taken 3 sp from Ortolfus along with

his stock of twelve roses, and have the following items
on them: 1 coin pouch with 10 gp, 50 sp and 35 cp, and a
scroll of Identify.

Once the fight is over, the young boy will thank the
players, introducing himself as Ortolfus, a young priest.
He will proudly display his knowledge by casting Heroism
(SRD 154) on the party and is happy to help the players if
they need it and may even join their cult.

With invitation in hand, give the players time to prepare

spells, access a general store and have a long rest before
entering the castle.

122

DM Note: Some NPCs that your players interact with
during the story, such as Ortolfus, can be recruited using
money or through a successful ability check. For full
details on recruiting, visit the Recruiting Monsters &
Henchmen chapter on page 62.
Part 2: Enter the Castle
King Boric’s summer castle, Caer Naut, is a vision. Ivory
parapets tower above verdant gardens and the shade
beneath the high walls swarms with nobles, handmaidens
and waiters.The outer wall and the sturdy, iron-wrought
gates are flanked by a squad of armed men in spotless
white surcoats ready to contain the heaving crowds of
people around you. These are the common citizenry;
uninvited masses who are having their own impromptu
festival around the palace walls.
If the party is utilizing the circus invites the following
interaction occurs at the gates:
As you approach the gates you see a pair of Whitecoats,
one older, one younger, checking invites carefully before
admitting entry. The younger of the two checks your
invites and nods you through but suddenly you find your
way barred by the elder. He checks your invite and looks
sharply at the younger man.
“Selwyn, you dolt! These invites are the real deal, but the
king cancelled this troupe weeks ago in favour of
Marionettes and Monsters, Prince Frawd’s favourites. You
should know that.”
He looks hard at you. “Now, I don’t know if you folks made
an honest mistake or if you think you can just wander into
Princess Charity’s wedding without a proper invitation.
Either way, turn yourselves around. Go enjoy the festivi-
ties with the common folk. They’ll appreciate your tricks
and tumbles. The Princess has her entertainment.”
123
123
At the first hurdle the party falls flat, but this is not the
end of their plan. They can attempt to persuade Heriot,
the older Whitecoat knight (SRD 400), that they were
told to come anyway by the Prince or that he may face a
reprimand for denying them access. Convincing Heriot
requires either a successful DC 18 Persuasion or DC
20 Intimidation check to gain access, otherwise they are
barred from entry.
If barred, the players have other alternate ways insuch as
the following:
Scale the Wall: The party may undertake a skill
challenge to scale the outer wall and gain access to the
castle gardens (A1). This could involve a successful DC
17 Dexterity (Stealth) checks to avoid detection, a DC 15
Wisdom (Perception) checks to spot patrols and a DC 15
Strength (Athletics) checks to climb the wall.
Enter via the Culvert: Caer Naut’s drainage systems all
flow out via a single culvert in the outer wall. The grate
is solid but the stone fixtures can be loosed or pried open
with a DC 15 Strength (Athletics) check. Using a crowbar
or mason’s tools give advantage on the check. This route
runs the risk of attracting attention if too much noise is
made (with failed checks) and once inside the dirty water
can stain the party’s clothes and cause them to stand out
amongst the wedding guests. The Culvert can exit in the
Royal Baths (A8) or Storerooms (A3)
Stowaway: There are a few wagons still to enter the
castle. Those with valid invites can be identified with a
DC 12 Wisdom (Insight) check. The wagons themselves
contain two circus monstrosities; a griffon (SRD 318) and
a manticore (SRD 329); but the drivers can be convinced
to allow the party to hide beneath the wagons with a
bribe of at least 10 gp or a DC 16 Charisma (Persuasion)
check. If the party is willing to slip inside the wagons, they
can avoid making a Stealth check but must find a way
to subdue the monsters or risk alerting the drivers and
Whitecoats.
However the party makes it inside, this is merely the
beginning as they have until sunset to complete their mis-
sion before the wedding ceremony commences.
A1. Maid Room If the players enter unusually, are covered in muck or
water, or behave oddly, then they are likely to attract
A2. Kitchen
unwanted attention and may even arouse suspicion
A3. Storerooms amongst the guests. They are unlikely to be approached
A4. Toilets directly by the guardsmen (guards) without good cause or
a report by a guest.
A5. Guard Room
A6. King’s Office The masquerade ball means that monstrous PCs or those
A7. King’s Chambers with distinguishing features may go unnoticed if they
wear a mask.
A8. Royal Baths
A9. Princess Charity’s Rooms People within the castle seem to be wearing either a
A10. Garden white ribbon or a black ribbon, denoting guests of the
bride or groom. There seems to be some tension between
A11. Ballroom
both parties, with the Groom’s guests being much row-
A12. Stables dier.
A13. Stage
A14. Backstage The bulk of the guests and Prince Frawd are in the
gardens viewing the circus on stage (A13). King Boric
A15. Monster Pens has recently arrived to keep him company, flanked by two
A16. Culvert Exits keen-eyed guards (spies).

Princess Charity is in the Royal Baths (A8) with her

Part 3: The Masquerade
Upon infiltrating the castle the players will have to gain
entry to the Princess’s room and dress. The exact details
depend upon their plan but the following information
should be considered.
handmaids, leaving only Eist, her gargoylite bodyguard to
protect her rooms (A9).
Allow the players to enact their plan but each time they
do something to arouse suspicion or enter a new area
(Ballroom, Gardens, Kitchens, Storeroom, Stage) use the
complications table here.

124
Roll Complication A6. King’s office
1 One of the groom’s guests stops you and de- The king’s office is very luxurious and contains many
mands to know why you aren’t wearing a ribbon. precious objects. The king used to receive his guests for
2 One of the bride’s guests comes over and asks private discussions in this room. If the players decide to
you about yourself, their curiosity piqued. search the room, they will find a golden eagle statuette
worth 15 GP and the guest list if they succeed a DC 13
3 A waiter looks at you suspiciously, sensing you
Intelligence (Investigation).
are somewhere you shouldn’t be.
4 You see two guards interrogating a guest sus- A7. King’s Chambers
pected of being an intruder.. King Boric’s rooms are immaculate, and everything is
The guards let the guest return to the party but decorated in white, including the polar bear skin on his
they now wander around, looking for any suspect floor. He is a pious man and his rooms are surprisingly
behavior from the guests. spartan (for a king). The king is absent from here save
5 A fight breaks out between two guests and for the hour before sunset when he will prepare for the
guards leave their posts to investigate. wedding.
6 The King returns to the Ballroom.
A8. Royal Baths
The royal baths hold an ornate stone bath that is painsta-
If the party is seen entering the King’s Chambers,
kingly filled and maintained by a series of pipes from the
Princess’s Rooms, Royal Baths or Backstage, they are
kitchens, requiring a servant to continuously pour boiling
immediately pursued by any guards who witnessed it.
water into it and another servant to monitor the water
Otherwise, they have 15 minutes before guards become
level and if need be open the drain that leads to the culvert
alerted to their presence
(A16). Here, Princess Charity bathes and is attended by
handmaidens doing her makeup and hair for the ceremony.
A1. Maids Room
The maids room is a small room with low quality furni-
Princess Charity is a tall, stocky woman with rosy cheeks,
ture compared to the other rooms in the castle. There are
bright eyes and a brilliant smile. Her manner however
two single beds and some storage furniture. By searching
is spoiled and imperious as she treats those she speaks
the room, a successful DC 15 Intelligence (Investigation)
to with disdain, save her father and her beloved fiancé,
check, allows the players to find two food rations.
Prince Frawd.
A2. Kitchen
A9. Princess Charity’s Room
The kitchens are busy and bustling the entire day to
The door to the Princess Charity’s room has a simple
churn out a constant stream of snacks and beverages
lock which may be opened by a DC 12 Dexterity (Thieves
while preparing the grandest of feasts. The busy atmos-
Tools) check, or by spells such as Knock.
phere is surprisingly closely monitored by the chef, who
spots strangers in her kitchen quickly.
Inside the Princess’s rooms, you see a lavish, ornate
bedroom. The floors are lined with furs and silk sheets
A3. Storerooms
adorn the bed. Enough wardrobes to
The storerooms hold the food and drinks for the castle,
outfit a small village line the walls and
as well as odds and ends for maintenance. Locked boxes
there, by the light of the eastern window,
contain new clothes for the king’s servants that can be
is a beautiful white dress. The rooms
unlocked with a DC 12 Dexterity (Thieves’ Tools) check
are a vision of everything you would ex-
or with the key kept by Chamberlain Neville currently in
pect from a spoiled royal, save for a soli-
the gardens (A10).
tary stone statue by the door depicting a
proud warrior, some seven feet tall.
A4. Toilets
This toilet is functional and is intended for guests.
Allow the party a moment to ask
There is a sink with a fountain from which a few drops
questions about the room, or even the
of water flow permanently. If the players enter the castle
statue, before calling for initiative. Eist
through the culvert to this room, they will be dirty and
(gargoylite) is indistinguishable from a
there is not enough water to clean themselves.
statue and so will gain a surprise round
in the combat to come. Eist’s goal is to
A5. Guard Room
kill the trespassers and he cares little
Here at least two off duty guards can be found at all
for raising the alarm. Any player in the
times, ready to be summoned. The rest of the room
room that isn’t being attacked by the
contains dozens of sets of basic chainmail, shields and
Eist can use their action to administer
at least one of every martial weapon.

125
the YUC on the dress.
If the party uses spells that generate loud noises, signifi-
cant environmental effects or bright light they will hear
the sounds of alarm in the castle and guardsmen (guards)
will run to the room.
The first 1d3 guards will enter the room in 1d4+1 rounds
after the alarm is triggered and 1d3 more guards will
enter the room every 1d4+2 rounds after the previous
squad.
If they defeat Eist without raising the alarm, they are
free to administer the YUC. Almost as if fate is playing a
cruel joke however, this is the moment Princess Charity
returns to her room.
The doorway is blocked, players can escape through the
windows and move to the Monster Pens (A15).
An anguished scream seems to fill the room like an ex-
plosion. In the doorway, in undergarments and robe, the
Princess has seen the ruin of her dress. There is little else
to do but flee. The doorway is blocked, but in a stroke of
luck, the window is flung wide.
A10. Garden
The Royal Gardens are spacious and filled with bushes,
trees and plant life. For most of the day, King Boric
(noble, SRD 401) will wander between here and the
Stage (A13), flanked by two guards (spy, SRD 402).
King Boric’s chief of staff, Chamberlain Neville, over-
looks events from there. The gardens are a good place to
remain unseen with plenty of cover, despite the greater
concentration of guests.
A11. Ballroom
The Ballroom is where the dancing is taking place and la-
ter on, the wedding feast. The masquerade ball is planned
for afterwards but everyone in the ballroom, like most
of the rest of the castle, is already fully masked. A small
band plays a series of well-known dance numbers and
waiters slip effortlessly between guests offering refresh-
ments. The doorways to the castle hallways are watched
by two guards.
A12. Stables
The Stables are staffed with capable stablehands led by
the ornery Ostler Brand. There are many horses belon-
ging to the royal household and their guests. The scent of
lavender is thick in the air to prevent the horses from pa-
nicking at the smell of the monsters nearby in the Stage
(A13) and Monster Pens (A14).
A13. Stage
The Stage is where the “Marionettes and Monsters’’ cir-
cus provides entertainment for the guests. The circus is
led by Jackson Hue, the colorful ringmaster who remains
near the stage to monitor proceedings. Prince Frawd
spends most of the day here admiring the puppet shows
but he most looks forward to the monster circus. Indeed
there is a winter wolf (SRD 392) on display that periodi-
cally unleashes a blast of frost at anyone it perceives to
126
pass beyond the safety lines.
A14. Backstage
Behind the stage, there is a relaxed atmosphere as the
puppeteers take their well-earned breaks and handlers
line up the next monster for the show. An ettercap (SRD
308) has spun a particularly ornate web inside its enclo-
sure before going onstage (it has learned this earns it a
better meal afterwards).
A15. Monster Pens
Unguarded beneath a colorful canvas canopy, several
sturdily built cages hold monsters (young minotaur, de-
caying mummy and aggressive harpy) awaiting their turn
on the stage. The cage locks can be overcome by a DC 13
Dexterity (Thieves Tools) check or a DC 15 Strength (Ath-
letics). Each lock has an AC of 17 and 10 HP.
It is possible to enter the Princess’s Rooms (A9) through
a tapestry-covered window behind the cages by climbing
up the cages and making a DC 15 Dexterity (Acrobatics)
or Strength (Athletics) check.
A16. Culvert Exits
The culvert carries refuse water away from the castle. It
has several access pipes but the largests are the drains in
the Storerooms (A3) or Royal Baths (A8). Exiting through
the storeooms is much easier but the waste poured down
the drain causes any characters to become noticeably
dirty. Accessing the culvery exit to the baths requires a
DC 15 Strength (Athletics) check and will quickly drain
the bath above. Anyone caught in the deluge will have to
make a DC 14 Dexterity save or be knocked prone, falling
30 ft. back into the culvert.
Guard
Medium humanoid (any race), any non-lawful
alignment
Armor Class 15 (Studded Leather and Shield)
Hit Points 16 (3d8 + 3)
Speed 30 ft.
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
14 (+2) 14 (+2) 12 (+1) 10 (+0) 10 (+0) 10 (+0)
Senses Passive Perception 10
Languages Common
Challenge ½, 100 XP
Actions
Multiattack. The guard makes two longsword attacks
or two light crossbow attacks
Longsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5
ft., one target. Hit: 6 (1d8 + 2) slashing damage.
Light Crossbow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +4 to hit,
range 80/320 ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d8 + 1) piercing
damage.
Gargoylite Decaying Mummy
Medium fiend, chaotic evil Medium undead, chaotic evil

Armor Class 13 (Natural Armor) Armor Class 11 (Natural Armor)

Hit Points 30 (4d8 + 12) Hit Points 44 (8d8+8)
Speed 30 ft., fly 60 ft. Speed 20 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
15 (+2) 11 (+0) 16 (+3) 6 (-2) 11 (+0) 7 (+2) 16 (+3) 8 (-1) 13 (+1) 6 (-2) 10 (+0) 12 (+1)

Damage Resistances Bludgeoning, Piercing and Damage Vulnerabilities Fire

Slashing from nonmagical attacks not made with
adamantine weapons; Poison
Condition Immunities Exhaustion, Petrified, Poi-
soned
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 10
Challenge 1, 200 XP
Damage Resistances Necrotic, Poison; Bludgeoning,
Piercing and Slashing from nonmagical attacks
Condition Immunities Charmed, Exhausted, Frighte-
ned, Paralyzed, Poisoned
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 10
Challenge 1, 200 XP

False Appearance. While the gargoylite remains Actions

motionless, it is indistinguishable from an inanimate Multiattack. The mummy can use its Shocking Glare
statue. and makes one attack with its Rotting Fist.
Rotting Fist. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach
Actions 5 ft., one target. Hit: 6 (1d6+3) bludgeoning + 7 (2d6)
Multiattack. The gargoylite makes 2 attacks: one with necrotic damage
its bite and one with its claws. Shocking Glare. The mummy targets one creature it
Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one can see within 60 ft., forcing it to make a DC 13 Wis-
target. Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) piercing damage. dom saving throw or become muted and blinded until
Claw. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., the end of its next turn.
one target. Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) slashing damage. Once
per round Iif the attack is successful, the gargoyle
may make an extra bite attack against a second target
Young Minotaur
Large monstrosity, chaotic evil
within 5 ft. of the first one.
Armor Class 13 (Natural Armor)
Hit Points 39 (6d10 + 6)
Aggressive Harpy Speed 40 ft.
Medium monstrosity, any chaotic alignment

Armor Class 11 (Natural Armor) STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
Hit Points 27 (7d8) 17 (+3) 15 (+2) 15 (+2) 8 (-1) 12 (+1) 8 (-1)
Speed 20 ft., fly 40 ft.
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 15
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA Languages Common
Challenge 1, 200 XP
12 (+1) 13 (+1) 10 (+0) 7 (-2) 10 (+0) 13 (+1)
Charger. If the Minotaur moves at least 10 feet in a
Senses Passive Perception 10
straight line towards a target and successfully hits it
Languages Undercommon
with a gore attack on the same turn, the target takes
Challenge 1, 200 XPa
an extra 7 (2d6) piercing damage and is pushed up to
10 feet away.
Actions
Claws. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
Actions
one target. Hit: 8 (2d6 + 1) slashing damage.
Greataxe. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
Psychic Call. Ranged Magic Attack: +5 to hit, range
one target. Hit: 14 (2d10 + 3) slashing damage.
40 ft., one target. Hit: 12 (3d6 + 2) psychic damage.
Gore. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., on
Target hit by this attack must then succeed on a DC
target. Hit: 10 (2d6 + 3) piercing damage.
13 Charisma save or be forced to move 10 ft. towar-
ds the harpy.

127
Part 4: Flight
The party must now flee Caer Naut, but along the way,
they have the opportunity for a little chaos, and to perhaps
make some new friends.
Leaping from the window onto the cages below makes
for a hard landing, but it is not half so terrifying as the
creature that looks up at you from between the bars. You
see a human-like face surrounded by a thick mane with
sharp jagged teeth. You can’t help but notice the barbed,
scorpion-like tail either, but in its eyes you see a flicker of
intelligence and sadness.
The party has landed amongst the creatures of the
Marionettes and Monsters circus (A11). The circus is a
favourite of Prince Frawd, who is a frequent patron. Who
knows what it is he enjoys but clearly it is not their high
standard of welfare. The creatures, monstrous as they
are, are poorly cared for, sickly and afraid, though unnoti-
ceable to your average customer.
The creatures (young minotaur, decaying mummy and
aggressive harpy) that remain in the monster pens are
held in their sturdily built cages, but the locks are easily
overcome by a DC 13 Dexterity (Thieves’ Tools) check or
a DC 15 Strength (Athletics). Each lock has an AC of 17
and 10 HP. Should the party free these creatures,
one of them—swayed by the party’s strength and cou-
rage—pledges its allegiance to the players’ Brotherhood,
ready to stand fast as a defender upon the conclusion of
the chapter.
Impress upon the players that time is of the essence, but
speed alone may not be enough. The sound of crossbow
bolts from the guards in Princess Charity’s room can be
clearly heard hitting the cages or shredding the canvas
awnings, giving a sense of urgency. In a matter of mi-
nutes, the whole castle will be in an uproar.
Allow the players to come up with their own escape
plan but consider that the hallway to the storeroom (A3)
culvert is heavily guarded, directly climbing the walls may
expose them to the guard’s crossbows and freeing the
trapped beasts may result in further enemies amidst the
chaos.
If the party stays put they will encounter the following
foes, 1d4+1 rounds apart:
Wave 1: Four guards (SRD 399) and two mastiffs
(SRD 384)
Wave 2: Two veterans (SRD 403)
Wave 3: Two knights (SRD 400) and one priest
(SRD 401)
128
As the party reaches the gates they are barred and
guarded by the two Whitecoat knights, Heriot and
Selwyn. The latter has a panicked look in his eye but He-
riot looks at the party with grim determination:
“You should have stayed outside.”
If the party freed any monsters they could help clear the
Whitecoats and open the gates. This will occur several
turns after the party engages the Whitecoats (4 minus
the number of monsters released). The creature(s) will
charge the gates seeking freedom—any with fly speeds
have been hobbled to stop their escape—and knock aside
anyone in their path. They seem to recognise their libera-
tors however, and avoid attacking the party.
Once the gates are open the party can flee the castle and
lose themselves among the chaotic crowd.
Aftermath
If the party has successfully completed their mission and
returned to the Brotherhood’s hideout, the High Warlock
is surprised, but pleased.
He promotes every player of the party to third circle
Defenders of the Brotherhood, and each of them receives
a shadow owl ring before the High Warlock bids them
farewell, with these parting words:
“Go forth and rest, brothers and sisters. The Darkness is
not done with you.”
The master of the organization sends the players to per-
form a ritual on the biggest hill around the city for 3 days
to honor the Dark One. All players gain one level.
Shadow Owl Ring
Ring, Artifact
This ring allows you to control a shadow owl in the
players’ lair cult base. This bird cannot fly more than 100
feet away from the heart of the base. At the discretion of
the DM, when an enemy enters the base, the shadow owl
activates with an initiative of 25 and your character sees
through its eyes and takes control of it.
Each round you can move the shadow owl up to 40 feet
and use its action to land on the shoulder of a willing
creature. You then take control of this creature who im-
mediately takes its turn (action, move, bonus).
A shadow owl can’t land on a creature that already has a
shadow owl on its shoulder. A creature that has already
acted this round cannot be made to act again using this
feature.
Defend The Base!

Suspicious activity around the secret base has been no-
ticed by the neighborhood. The local authorities have sent
a team of heroes to investigate the players’ secret lair.
Assault Team
Borty Fizzingum
Kalian Stonegrinder
Arthus Draco
Setup
During this encounter, players must organize the defense
of the base by positioning monsters and traps where they
want prior to the battle beginning. Players will also have
access to their Shadow Owl Ring to take control of a
monster each turn.
Tips: It is sometimes difficult for a DM to fall into a trap
on purpose. To help maintain surprise, players can
choose to place down two trap areas on the field, only
one of which will actually be trapped. Players can note
which one is real on a piece of paper before the sequence
begins and reveal it to the DM the moment an enemy
triggers the trap.
The attacker CR is 6 as the defending team is expected to
be a CR 8.5 (8 for defenders and 0.5 for traps and arte-
facts). If the players have recruited additional defenders
such as the young priest or a monster from the show,
then add 1 or 2 blessings to the attacking team to balance
the fight.
The Fight

Monsters At the beginning of the fight the Heroes will enter through
a random door or window. Roll a die to determine the
For this combat, the players have at their disposal the point of entry for the heroes. Draw the initiatives of the
following monsters and henchmen whose stat blocks and monsters and the heroes.
abilities are listed below. When placing monsters in the
base, remember that each monster can only stay in the Monsters’ turn
same room with other monsters of its type.
Using their shadow owls, players can take control and
Arcane In- 3x Young 1x Enlarged 1x Rockskin play one of the monsters in the field by landing an owl on
surgents Apprentice Dark Dwarf Golem their shoulder.
Ironfang 1x Juvenile 1x Brutal 1x Goblin
In the first round of combat only monsters controlled by
Tribe Norker Bugbear Alchemist
a player and those in the same room as a hero can play.
Brimstone 1x Poisonous On the second turn, monsters in adjacent rooms hear the
Legion Imp battle and join. On the third turn all monsters in the base
Tentacles 1x Enslaved are active and able to be used.
of Tor- Horn
ment Tips: The fight follows usual combat steps, the DM
plays the heroes and monsters that are not controlled
Traps by the players. It is recommended to play the monsters
in a simple way, they attack the target closest to them.
Players have one fire scorcher at their disposal which they While the heroes are more intelligent and choose their
can place anywhere on the map, and the trap is triggered target carefully. The goal is for players to actively use
when any creature sets foot on a 20 foot x 20 foot area. the monsters in order to organize the best defense of the
base.
Fire Scorcher
Trigger: 10 ft. x 10 ft. magic zone, set up next to a wall or
door
Area of Effect: a 15 ft. cone coming from the wall or door

Whenever a hero triggers the trapped door or wall, a 15

ft. cone of flames spouts forth. The triggering creature
must make a DC 14 Dexterity save, while any other crea-
ture caught in the area of effect must roll a DC 13 Dexte-
rity save, suffering 3d6 fire damage or half on a successful
roll.
This trap can be triggered once per day.

129
Victory Conditions

Using the monsters and trap, players must successfully
cause the heroes to flee or take them out of the action
before they manage to locate the secret passage.
The heroes’ goal is to find a way into the secret part of the
dungeon.
The encounter is lost if any hero spends at least one turn
without fighting in the room where the secret passage is
located. If this happens, the master of the cult will come
to deal with the heroes himself and admonish the players
for their failure to handle the situation.
the Anger’s Grasp (page 34).
34 The High warlock will also
grant one lair artefact and one trap as a reward for com-
pleting this adventure. These can either be chosen by the
DM or at random.
If the players have failed:
The master of the cult, the High Warlock himself,
emerges from the secret passage, coming face to face
with one of the heroes. Enraged, a blast of fire bursts
forth, throwing the occupants of the room away.

If the players succeed:
Heroes defeated, the High Warlock lays a seemingly
hodgepodge of items on a table before you. “You have
done well. The Dark One favors you with these gifts.”
“Base defense is of our utmost priority. Failure is not an
option.” Toeing a fallen hero he looks back to you, “Clean
this mess up and take out the trash…”

Raising his hands upwards, and with a low mumble the

objects will twist and warp, becoming a dark velvet cloak
and a wicked-looking greataxe.
The items are the e Robe of the Dark One (page 35) and

Young Apprentice Enlarged Dark Dwarf

Medium humanoid (any race), lawful
Large humanoid, lawful evil
Armor Class 12
Armor Class 15 (Chain Shirt and Shield)
Hit Points 19 (3d8 + 6)
Hit Points 26 (4d10 + 4)
Speed 30 ft.
Speed 25 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
11 (+0) 14 (+2) 10 (+0) 14 (+2) 11 (+0) 10 (+0)
14 (+2) 11 (+0) 12 (+1) 11 (+0) 10 (+0) 9 (-1)
Skills Arcana +2, Deception +2
Damage Resistances Poison
Senses Passive Perception 10
Senses Darkvision 120 ft., Passive Perception 10
Languages Common
Languages Common, Dwarf, Undercommon
Challenge 1/2 (50 XP)
Challenge 1/2 (100 XP)
Devotion. The apprentice has advantage on saving
Dark Resilience. The dark dwarf has advantage on
throws against spells.
saving throws against poison and spells.

Actions Actions
Scimitar. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
War Pick. Melee Weapon Attack: +3 to hit, reach 5
one target. Hit: 4 (1d6 + 1) slashing damage.
ft., one target. Hit: 11 (2d8 + 2) piercing damage.
Fire Blast. Ranged Magic Attack: +4 to hit, range
80/320 ft., one target. Hit: 11 (2d10) fire damage.

130
Rockskin Golem Juvenile Norker
Large construct, neutral evil Small goblinoid, chaotic evil

Armor Class 15 in moving form, 20 in defensive Armor Class 15 (Leather & Shield)
stance Hit Points 17(5d6)
Hit Points 58 (9d10 + 18) Speed 30 ft.
Speed 15 ft.
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA 8 (-1) 14 (+2) 11 (+0) 8 (-1) 8 (-1) 7 (-2)
18 (+4) 10 (+0) 15 (+2) 8 (-1) 10 (+0) 9 (-1)
Skills Athletics +3
Immunities Acid, Cold, Fire, Poison Senses Passive Perception 9
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 9 Languages Goblin
Languages Understands the languages of its creator Challenge 1/2 (100 XP)
but can’t speak
Challenge 2 (450 XP) Nimble Escape. The norker can take the Disengage
or Hide action as a bonus action on each of its turns.
Magic Resistance. The golem has the advantage of
saving throws against spells and other magical effects. Actions
Defensive Stance. The golem can turn himself as Multiattack. The norker makes one shortsword and
an immovable object that blocks doors or passages. one bite attack.
While in this stance, the golem cannot move or use Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
any action. target. Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) piercing damage.
Shortsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach
Actions 5 ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) slashing damage plus
Ground Stomp. Any creature within 5 ft. of the golem 3(1d6 poison).
must make a DC 14 Dexterity saving throw suffering
10 (3d6) bludgeoning damage on a failed throw, or
half on a successful one.
Goblin Alchemist
Small goblinoid, chaotic evil

Brutal Bugbear Armor Class 13 (Leather)

Medium goblinoid, chaotic evil Hit Points 17 (5d6)
Speed 30 ft.
Armor Class 13 (Hide)
Hit Points 27 (5d8 + 5) STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
Speed 30 ft.
8 (-1) 16 (+3) 10 (+0) 10 (+0) 8 (-1) 8 (-1)

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA Skills Stealth + 5

15 (+2) 12 (+1) 16 (+3) 8 (-1) 11 (+0) 9 (-1) Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 9
Languages Common, Goblin
Skills Stealth + 6, Survival +2 Challenge 1 (200 XP)
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception
Languages Common, Goblin Nimble Escape. The goblin can take the Disengage or
Challenge 1 (200 XP) Hide action as a bonus action on each of its turns.

Vicious. Whenever the bugbear hits a prone creature Actions

it inflicts an extra 7(2d6) piercing damage.
Actions
Morningstar. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach
5 ft., one target. Hit: 11 (2d8 + 2) piercing and 7 (2d6)
poison damage.
Scimitar. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
one target. Hit: 6 (1d6 + 3) slashing damage + 4 (1d8)
poison damage.
Poison Sack. Range 25 ft., Each creature in a
5-foot-radius sphere centered on that point must make
a DC 13 Dexterity saving throw suffering 10 (3d6) poi-
son damage on failed save, or half on a successful one.

131
Poisonous Imp Enslaved Horn
Tiny fiend, lawful evil Large monstrosity, any chaotic alignment

Armor Class 13 Armor Class 15 natural armor

Hit Points 13 (4d4 + 3) Hit Points 38 (4d10 + 16)
Speed 20 ft., fly 40 ft. Speed 30 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
6 (-2) 17 (+3) 13 (+1) 11 (+0) 12 (+1) 14 (+2) 16 (+3) 10 (+0) 18 (+4) 9 (-1) 12 (+1) 9 (-1)

Skills Deception +4, Insight +3, Persuasion +4, Senses Passive Perception 11
Stealth +5 Languages Common
Damage Resistances Cold; Bludgeoning, Piercing Challenge 1 (200 XP)
and Slashing from nonmagical attacks
Damage Immunities Fire, Poison Charger. If the Enslaved Horn moves at least 10 feet
Condition Immunities Poisoned straight toward a target and then hits it with a gore
Senses Blindsight 120 ft., Passive Perception 11 attack on the same turn, the target takes an extra 7
Languages Common, Infernal (2d6) piercing damage and is pushed up to 10 feet
Challenge 2 (200 XP) away.

Magic Resistance. The Imp has advantage on saving Actions

throws against spells and other magical effects.
Actions
Poison Sting. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach
5 ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d4 + 3) piercing and the
target must make a DC 11 Constitution saving throw,
taking 10 (3d6) poison damage on a failed save, or
half as much damage on a successful one.
Poison Needles. (1/day) The poisonous imp claps its
wings together releasing a shower of tiny needle hairs.
All creatures within 10 feet of it must make a DC 14
Constitution saving throw or become poisoned.
Invisibility (1/day). The imp remains invisible until he
takes damage.
Gore. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
target. Hit: 9 (2d4 + 3) piercing damage. If the target
is a creature, it must succeed on a DC 13 Strength
saving throw or be knocked prone.
Reaction
Tough Skin (1/day). The Enslaved Horn can bear the
brunt of incoming damage, gaining resistance against
Slashing and Bludgeoning damage until the end of
their next turn.

132
 Borty Fizzingum
Attacking Heroes Small humanoid (Gnome), chaotic neutral

Armor Class 13 (studded leatherl)

Hit Points 33 (7d8 + 5)
Arthus Draco Speed 25 ft.
Medium humanoid (human), any neutral alignment

Armor Class 13 (Studded Leather) STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
Hit Points 37 (8d6 + 13) 8 (-1) 16 (+3) 12 (+1) 12 (+1) 9 (-1) 18 (+4)
Speed 30 ft.
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 11
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA Languages Gnomish, Common
Challenge ½, 100 XP
8 (-1) 14 (+2) 14 (+2) 10 (+0) 12 (+1) 18 (+4)
Gnome Cunning. You have advantage on all Intelli-
Senses Passive Perception 14
gence, Wisdom, and Charisma saves against magic.
Languages Common, Abyssal
Spellcasting Borty Fizzingum is a 1st-level spellcas-
Challenge 3, 700 XP
ter. Their spellcasting ability is Charisma (spell save
DC 14, +4 to hit with spell attacks). They have the
Fast Caster. Arthus can cast a firebolt as a bonus
following warlock spells:
action every turn.
Cantrips (at will): Disguise Self, Hex, Eldritch
Blast
Spellcasting. Arthus is a 3rd-level spellcaster. Their
1st Level (2 slots): Shield
spellcasting ability is Charisma (spell save DC 14,
+4 to hit with spell attacks). They have the following
sorcerer spells:
Actions
Multiattack. The Warlock can make two melee
Cantrips (at will): Firebolt
attacks.
1st Level (4 slots) : Chromatic Orb (Lightning),
Greataxe. Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
Grease
one target. Hit: 11 (1d12 + 4) slashing damage.
2nd Level (2 slots) : Hold Person

Actions
Dagger. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., Kalian Stonegrinder
one target. Hit: 6 (1d4 + 3) slashing damage. Medium humanoid (Earthen Golem), any lawful
Crossbow, light. Ranged Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, alignment
reach 80 ft., one target. Hit: 6 (1d6 + 3) slashing
damage. Armor Class 17 (scale mail)
Hit Points 64 (8d10 + 25)
Speed 30 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA

16 (+3) 10 (+0) 18 (+4) 12 (+0) 12 (+1) 9 (-1)

Senses Passive Perception 14

Languages Primordial, Common
Action Surge If this is the first time attacking during
this combat, take one additional action.
Challenge 2, 450 XP

Actions
Multiattack. The fighter makes two melee attacks:
one trip and one greatsword.
Trip. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
target. Hit: 11 (2d6 + 4) slashing damage. When you
hit a creature with a trip attack, if the target’s size
is Large or smaller, it must make a DC 13 Strength
saving throw or fall prone.
Greatsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5
ft., one target. Hit: 11 (2d6 + 4) slashing damage.

133
 Chapter 2 What happens in Shipton…
A New Base of Operations
The High Warlock has gathered you to him for a new
task, but as you enter the stronghold of the Endarkened
Brotherhood, it is a mess of debris and remains of those
who fell in the battle. You surreptitiously shuffle to a
cleaner spot as you eye the clearly frazzled High Warlock.
“Clearly, your actions have drawn too much attention. We
cannot remain here. We must find a new location for our
rituals.”
Murmurs ripple through the crowd as the members
begin discussing amongst themselves. “What about me
mum’s place?” calls out a hooded figure that quickly grows
silent at a haughty glance from the High Warlock.
Another outburst, this time from the back, “The Hag
and Hen has a back room, we could meet there! Just not
Tuesdays… the Illuminated Sisterhood of Candlemakers
meet then.Oh, and Thursdays are the knitting club. But on
weekends it’s used for karaoke–”
“My uncle’s stables are usually empty, on account of
him having no horses–”
“SILENCE!” roars the High Warlock, “I already have a
few places in mind.”
“Ooh, is it an abandoned crypt?” asks a linen-wrapped
woman with flaky skin.
“Or a circle of standing stones?” asks a tall thin man
whose only feature visible beneath his hood is a wispy
white beard.
“No.” sighs the High Warlock, “I’ve narrowed it down to
the Leaky Bucket, Saint Simon’s chapel or the old furni-
ture store, Ike–Ears.” Gasps go up from the assembled
cultists, “It was in-budget?! Well, memberships are down
since SOMEONE forgot to feed the ogre!”
“You lot,” he gesticulates towards the party, “scout
out the locations and make sure no one figures out what
you’re doing. We need a SECRET hideout. Take this to
pay for it.” He hands you a pouch of gold. He looks at you
one more time and says “Remember, it must be a secret!”
“REMEMBER, IT’S A SECRET!” the chorus of voices
repeats, loud enough to be heard several streets away.
The High Warlock has given the party a pouch of 500 gp
to secure a new secret cult location. The party must travel
around the town of Hatbury and examine three potential
134
sites for use by the cult. While each has a different set
of cosmetic differences, each also imparts a mechanical
benefit.
The Leaky Bucket
The town of Hatbury is well aware of cultists in their
midst, but thankfully they don’t care much as long as they
mind their own business. They are far more irritated by
the various people on high that preach and berate them
as they walk around the streets.
As you cross the bridge into Hatbury and walk along the
muddy cobblestone streets, various vendors call out their
wares and a few bleary-eyed priests begin preaching - or
at least, muttering, about heresy and sin. Not far off, the
sign for the Leaky Bucket quickly catches your eye. It
is unmistakable, a bashed and battered wooden bucket
hanging from a post above the inn’s door.
As you enter the tavern, you note its state of disrepair:
cracked windows, floor sticky beneath your feet, squeaky
floorboards and that mold on the ceiling suggesting its
roof is as leaky as the pub’s name. A large man with re-
ceding silver hair is asleep at the bar, his snores echoing
throughout the empty pub.
The Leaky Bucket is currently owned by Lodsa Buz, who
bought it as his personal taproom six months ago and has
since become bankrupt. He is desperate to make a quick
sale.
Master Buz can be shaken awake and he will groggily ask
the party what he can do for them. If they explain their
interest in purchasing the venue, he can barely hide his
delight.
“Oh my!” —burp— “I mean to say,
well… it’ll be a dear pain to part with
her of course… Can’t say she’ll be
cheap but I could be convinced to
part with her for say, three hundred
crowns?”
The low fee (300 gp) that Master
Buz proffers to sell the Leaky
Bucket for is in the hope the
party will not snoop around too
much. If they do more than a
quick review they will disco-
ver the place is completely
derelict. With a DC 16 In-
vestigation check, the party
can deduce that a further
200 gp will be required to return the inn to a habitable
state—enough to accommodate the cult, but not attract
too many patrons. This still renders the Leaky Bucket
just within the 500 gp budget, but with enough sleuthing
further areas for discount can be found:
The chapel is in a good state of repair, save for a heavily
stained carpet and the crypt which seems to be filled with
more bodies than coffins. If asked about the oddity, Si will
shrug and state, “I had to make sacrifices if I was going to
manage the upkeep.”

A DC 14 Wisdom (Insight) check when questioning
Buz reveals he is eager to sell and if asked, admits few
patrons ever visit the Leaky Bucket. Accordingly, Buz will
lower the asking price by 40 gp.
A DC 15 Wisdom (Perception) check notes the broken
furniture, empty barrels and moth-eaten curtains. Buz will
lower the asking price by 30 gp if this is called out.
A DC 15 Intelligence (Nature) check finds signs of
woodworm in the floor. The whole place could collapse
and signs of a rat infestation are present. Buz will grud-
gingly lower the price by 30 gp.
The Church of Saint Simon the
Recapitated
The Church of Saint Simon the Recapitated is one of
Hatbury’s smaller churches. The small chapel fits neatly
between two houses on a row that overlooks the rest of the
town and the river beyond. The church has been abandoned
for some time, but this has not detracted from its beautiful
period architecture. Interestingly, the pair of ancient stone
gargoyles at the entrance are now sporting more recent
stonework in the form of human heads. A well dressed gent-
leman can be seen by the door and he warmly beckons you
over before introducing himself as the owner, Si.
Si is happy to show the party around the grounds, chapel
and small lower crypt and will explain the church’s history
with little prompting:
While he won’t negotiate on the price due to this, a
DC 14 Persuasion check will encourage him to make an
alternate offer: “I tell you what, if you pay the fee now, I’ll
have new carpets added and even dump—erm, relocate
the bodies by this weekend.”
Si is very straightforward, he wants the price he is asking
and isn’t willing to negotiate. However, there is also an
opportunity to recruit him to the cult if the Party inquires
more into Si’s backstory. He is a former assassin turned
gentleman. After he killed the previous King of Muln,
the new King pardoned him as part of his coronation
amnesty. He misses the game terribly though and very
little gets past him. While the party feels him out, he will
be doing the same to them.
A DC 16 Charisma (Persuasion) check convinces
him that his talents might be put to good use by the High
Warlock. “An intriguing offer, and if I am correct in my
assumptions, I rather think you may have a better use for
those bodies in the crypt. I look forward to working with
you.”
If the party does not purchase the church, he merely
smiles: “Well, it’s not going anywhere, perhaps in time you
will reconsider.”

“Well as the story goes Saint Simon was a blessed man.

He did not live a particularly holy life, but he was a patron
of this chapel. After he was unfortunately decapitated by the
King’s executioner, he miraculously returned and visited this
very spot! Well, the Bishop was astounded and immediately
set about canonising Simon and renamed the church in his
honour!

“Unfortunately, there had been a bit of a mix-up,” Si chuc-

kles, “I was not in fact decapitated at all, but I got the King’s
pardon! It’s funny how tales spread isn’t it?

“Anyhoo… the Bishop was so insistent on my sainthood

he thought the only way to prove it was to take my head off
again. I objected furiously of course, but wound up having to
stab him and it just all became a bit of a bloodbath.

“The church was abandoned after that so I picked up the

deeds and have been trying to shift this place ever since but
nothing in almost six months! I know the value and I won’t
see less than five hundred crowns for a building of this
quality.”

135
Ike-Ears
The Ike-Ears furniture store backs onto Hatbury’s river.
It has a beautifully carved exterior, the work of master
carpenters, but the facade is ruined by the various fruit
and vegetable matter staining the wood and the rotting ve-
getation strewn below. Inside, the store and workshop are
clean and well organised except for a small corner with a
sculpture surrounded by scattered tools and sawdust. The
owners, Master Ike and Mistress Ears are found bickering
inside, only stopping when interrupted:
“It was always a foolish idea of course. Unbuilt fur-
niture, who would go for that? I am a true artist, the
wood is merely a medium for my creativity. This was just
supposed to be a day job, but alas, I was naive,” remarks
Mistress Ears.
“Perhaps if you had listened and followed the plan, it
would have worked!” snaps Master Ike, “The vision was
to make the furniture that could be easily assembled by
the common man, and I was building a small but dedi-
cated customer base! It was you who started selling bun-
dles of wood and nails, saying build it yourself! You sold
dozens of the bloody things to people expecting my vision
and we ended up with a mob at our door!”
Ike and Ears were bankrupted when their business failed
and are left squatting in the shop, the only asset that
remains to them. They have grown to hate each other
for their failed venture and each hopes to make enough
from the sale of the store to set up their own workshop
elsewhere.
They respond quickly when asked about the sale price for
the location: “We would be willing to sell for six hundred
crowns,” replies Master Ike and Mistress Ears nods.
If the party objects, saying their budget is only 500 gp,
then Mistress Ears will speak up:
“Well, we could manage that, couldn’t we Ike? Two-fifty
each is enough to start over.”
Master Ike shoots her a scowl, “No Mistress Ears. We
could not. If you will recall, I put in the bulk of the invest-
ment. I require three hundred from the sale. Since you
are so keen to sell, two hundred crowns should be more
than acceptable for you, no?”
“Outrageous!” exclaims Mistress Ears, “Do you see
what I must put up with? Unabashed lies!”
The pair quickly devolves into argument again but after
a minute Master Ike pauses, remembering they aren’t
alone and turns to you, “My apologies, it seems we are
unable to agree. If you are staying in town, perhaps we
can contact you when we are ready to settle a deal?”
136
With a strained smile, Mistress Ears agrees, “Yes, that
might be best.”
Master Ike believes the party will be unable to meet their
price so is holding out hope for another day. Mistress
Ears, however, is determined to make the sale and if gi-
ven the chance has another offer to put forth to the party.
At some point in the day, or at the player’s lodging, she
catches up to them and makes them a new offer.
“If I could convince Master Ike to…reconsider… would
you be willing to drop by later to settle the deal? For five
hundred, like you bargained? I must settle a few of my
affairs first, but I wish to leave him and this town speedily.
Say tomorrow morning? At the shop?”
The party can make a DC 12 Wisdom (Insight) check
to determine that Mistress Ears is up to something and
isn’t telling the full truth, but is about making the sale for
500 gold. If they beat the DC by 5 or more, they deter-
mine that she has a clearly murderous arua. If the party
shows up the next morning, she will meet them outside,
alone, with the keys.
“Greetings, fine morning isn’t it! Well, here you are!
You’re now the proud owners of Ike-Ears! Of course you
can change the name. Five hundred crowns, yes?”
A DC 16 Wisdom (Perception) check reveals blood
spattered on the bottom hem of her apron. If pointed out,
a DC 15 Charisma (Persuasion or Intimidation) check is
enough to convince her to part with the store for 400 gp
in return for your silence. If the party beats the DC by 5 or
more, she will accept 350 gp.
After the sale, Mistress Ears rushes away hurriedly. In-
side, the party finds the dismembered body of Master Ike
and are immediately attacked by The Mouse (gladiator),
a notorious thug that Mistress Ears has promised 100
gp to for killing Ike and framing the party. She hopes the
party and The Mouse will kill one another and she can
slip away in the
chaos. When the
party is trium-
phant, they can
dispose of the
Mouse and Mas-
ter Ike via the
river, which the
workshop backs
onto. Alterna-
tively, they can
report the whole
thing to the town
guard.
If the party stops or kills Mistress Ears before she has
Master Ike killed: Master Ike accepts the player’s story
and sells them the store for 400 gp .
Gladiator
Medium humanoid (any race), any alignment
Armor Class Armor 16 (Studded Leather and
Shield)
Hit Points 112 (15d8 + 45)
Speed 30 ft.
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
18 (+4) 15 (+2) 16 (+3) 10 (+0) 12 (+1) 15 (+2)
Saving Throws Str +7, Dex +5, Con +6
Skills Athletics +10, Intimidation +5
Senses passive Perception 11
Languages Common
Challenge 5 (1800 XP)
Brave. The gladiator has advantage on saving throws
against being frightened.
Brute. A melee weapon deals one extra die of its
damage when the gladiator hits with it (included in
the attack).
Multiattack. The gladiator makes three melee attacks
or two ranged attacks.
Actions
Spear. Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5
ft., one target. Hit: (2d8 + 4) piercing damage. two
handed
Spear. Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
one target. Hit: (2d6 + 4) piercing damage.
Spear. Ranged Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 20/60
ft., one target. Hit: (2d6 + 4) piercing damage.
Shield Bash. Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach
5 ft., one creature. Hit: (2d4 + 4) bludgeoning damage.
If the target is a medium or smaller creature, it must
succeed on a DC 15 Strength saving throw or be
knocked prone
Reactions
Parry. The gladiator adds 3 to its AC against one
melee attack that would hit it. To do so, the gladia-
tor must see the attacker and be wielding a melee
weapon.
137
High Warlock’s Response
The High Warlock is satisfied with whichever location the
party chose, but if the authorities became involved at any
point he curses the party’s carelessness.
The Leaky Bucket
“It will do I suppose, although the amount of work re-
quired is staggering. I think we should allow a few regular
patrons in. Some of our members require employment
and who knows what we might overhear?”
Each party member gains Advantage on all History and
Investigation checks that could be a result of informa-
tion gathered by the cult.
The party may keep the remaining gold, less 200 gp for
repairs.
One party member receives the title “Head Barman of
the Bucket”
Saint Simon the Recapitated
“An excellent choice. I admit I was uncomfortable with
conducting our rituals on holy ground but given its bloody
history, it will do nicely. No one will seek for us in an aban-
doned church and we can… dissuade curious eyes.”
Each party member gains Advantage on History and Re-
ligion checks that can draw upon the church’s library.
One party member receives the title “High Priest of
Capitation”
Ike-Ears Furniture
“An interesting choice, but perhaps a brilliant one. If
we can paint ourselves as craftsmen trying to revive a
failing business, we will have a perfect cover and a great
excuse for any strange noises. The proximity to the river
will also come in handy.”
Each party member gains Advantage on Deception
checks to disguise their identity and gain proficiency
with Woodcarver’s Tools. One party member receives
the title
“Master Carver - Human Resources”
The Road to Shipton
“It has been some time since we have heard from our
brethren in Shipton…” This quiet statement by the High
Warlock immediately spurs the group of hooded figures
to alertness, the calm tone demanding answers. It is the
hooded brother known only as “The Night” that is the first
to clamber to speech:
“Not a peep. Not since you said they were the worst
example of a chapter since Darrow’s Treatise on Cocka-
trice Husbandry— a single page and the word ‘Don’t’.”
“Yes, well… Even so, the Crimson Owl should know
better than cease all communication.”
“But didn’t you also say that if he didn’t give you peace
you’d strand him on a desert island for a week?”
“Did I? Even so, that’s practically a vacation!”
A brief pause before The Night shakes his head, “He’s a
vampire, sir.”
“Ah.” A wry smirk worms its way to the surface as the
High Warlock shrugs away his indifference then turns his
gaze to the Party. “Well it’s been long enough for them to
mope. You find out what’s going on with them.
“Take some time off and visit Shipton, if all is in order
then you may return after a week. If there are any issues,
do what you must and report to me. Swiftly.”
“Sir, there are definitely issues with Shipton, such as–”
“ISSUES WITH THE BROTHERHOOD, SYMONS.
YOU DOLT!” roars the High Warlock and you watch The
Night sink into himself and shuffle away.
Travel to Shipton takes three days at a moderate pace as
the lands are fairly civilised. Farms border the road most
of the way, but the rambunctious seaport of Shipton itself
is surrounded by thick forest known to be plagued at times
by bandits. At present, it’s prowled by a goblin warband
known as the Tall Boyz. They were named thus by their
138
138
leader, an eight-foot female bugbear named Gromwell, the
Kind. The title has been spread by the bugbear herself,
who chooses to let one prisoner go from each of her raids.
The party encounters the Tall Boyz when they come
across an ambushed caravan of Mulnian peasants. The
Knight-errant accompanying the peasants offered to duel
Gromwell in exchange for the caravan’s freedom but after
she crushed his skull, she and the Tall Boyz took the ca-
ravan and lined up the peasants. She is about to put them
to the sword when the party arrives, stumbling across the
goblin band.
The sound of a recent clash of weapons has pulled
you from the forest into a clearing. Two abandoned carts
laden with goods backdrop a fallen knight and approxima-
tely twenty kneeling peasants, all surrounded by goblins
with drawn daggers. A huge bugbear towers over the
terrified commoners but rolls her eyes as you arrive.
“I suppose you want to rescue these nice folks? Ya
think yourselves heroes? ”
Gromwell is eager for more blood. Regardless of how the
party responds to her questions, even to the contrary, she
will push for a duel against another chosen champion.
Pointing towards the fallen knight with a crushed skull,
the bugbear continues, “Take a good look at the ‘hero’
over there. As you can tell, he wasn’t much of a fight and
I’m itching for more. You want to fight me too?”
If the party declines or attempts to back out, Gromwell
will ignore the party, and gives the following response
even if the players agree to the fight:
 Juvenile Norker
“Fine, have it your way, set out your champion! And if I Small humanoid (goblinoid), chaotic evil
win, I get to kill you all!”
Armor Class 15 (leather armor, shield)
Gromwell strides towards the party, who have a split Hit Points 22 (5d6 + 5)
second to nominate a champion. If they do not, Gromwell Speed 30 ft.
picks the largest party member to attack.
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
If more than one party member fights, They will have
9 (-1) 14 (+2) 13 (+1) 8 (-1) 11 (+0) 9 (-1)
to contest with Gromwell (Brutal Bugbear) and six of
her goblin bandits ( Juvenile Norker). Add two additional
Skills Athletics +3;
goblin bandits for each additional party member taking
Senses Passive Perception 11
part beyond four). Once Gromwell and half of the goblins
Languages Common, Goblin
are slain, the rest flee.
Challenge ½, 100 XP
If Gromwell is slain in single combat, the Tall Boyz
lack any real concept of honour and the six goblin bandits
Actions
attack the party.
Multiattack. The Norker makes one shortsword and
one bite attack.
Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
target. Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) piercing damage.
Shortsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5
Brutal Bugbear ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) piercing damage.
Medium humanoid (goblinoid), chaotic evil

Armor Class 16 (hide armor, shield)

Hit Points 27 (5d8+5)
Speed 30 ft.
Once the fighting is over, a nearby hobgoblin reveals
himself and offers to parlay. Red Colm is a tall, bald
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
hobgoblin (Hobgoblin Guard page 66) 66 who wants a bet-
15 (+2) 14 (+2) 13 (+1) 8 (-1) 11 (+0) 9 (-1) ter future for himself and by extension, the Tall Boyz.
“Please… kill no more of our folk. You have proved
Saving Throws Str +7, Dex +5, Con +6 yourself the mightiest warriors here. How might we
Skills Stealth +6, Survival +2 appease you?”
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 10
Languages Common, Goblin Let the peasants go: The Tall Boyz will cut their
Challenge 1, 200 XP bonds and the villagers will run, leaving their carts.
Word of your heroism will spread in Shipton, as will
Surprise Attack. If the bugbear surprises a creature news of the Tall Boyz.
and hits it with an attack during the first round of Leave none alive: Screams fill the air and knives
combat, the target takes an extra 7 (2d6) damage flash at Colm’s order. Shipton will never hear of your
from the attack. coming and potential alliance with the Tall Boyz.
Brute. A melee weapon deals one extra die of its Join us: Players can attempt to recruit Colm with a
damage when the bugbear hits with it (included in successful DC15 Charisma (Persuasion/Intimidation)
the attack). check.
Other Demands: Colm will agree to most things,
Actions even if just to get rid of the party. He will decide what to
Morningstar. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach do after the party is gone. If the party makes a request
5 ft., one target. Hit: 11 (2d8 + 2) piercing damage. he cannot meet he will lie to appease them, which can
Javelin. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., be deduced with a DC 15 Wisdom (Insight) check.
one target. Hit: 9 (2d6 + 2) piercing damage in melee,
or 5 (1d6 + 2) piercing damage at range.

139

Circus Headquarters
Shipton is a busy, rowdy port—during the day it is
dangerous to move beyond the main streets—at night, it
is deadly. Since its inception, the Shipton chapter of the
Endarkened Brotherhood floats on the back of Dread, a
carnival ship which has not left port in over ten years. It is
here that The Circus of Dreadful Delights and its foun-
der, the enigmatic Crimson Owl entertain. Each night he
opens the show with a display of his comedic talents as
the infamous Hooty the Clown.
Should the party approach the carnival ship during the
day, they find the ship gangplank lowered and the ship ap-
parantly deserted. At night, they find a gaggle of confused
patrons and a glimmer of light in the captain’s quarters.
The Dread has been seized by the local militia on the
order of Rouge, a red-headed woman who represents the
Brotherhood of Light, which has contacts in many organi-
sations across the land. She has imprisoned the Crimson
Owl below deck and has several militiamen guarding the
ship, hoping to entrap other cultists.
Accessing The Dread
The ship can be accessed via the gangplank which
remains down, or from the water. If the gangplank is
used, a member of the militia hidden in the crow’s nest
spots them and signals to a pair of militiamen to guard
the gangplank to prevent retreat. On deck, the circus tents
are abandoned, leaving a few other places to explore on
the ship.
140
140
The Main deck
The main deck is divided into several distinct areas,
each serving a different purpose. One section of the deck is
dedicated to the storage of materials and supplies, and is
cluttered with wooden crates, barrels, and boxes. Middeck
is also set up as a recreational area where the performers
and crew can relax and unwind. This section is lined with
comfortable chairs and tables, and is often used as a place
to play cards, gamble, or simply chat with one another.
The Lower deck
As you venture deeper, the ceilings are low and the air
is heavy with the scent of saltwater and sweat as you walk
through the galley. The crew cabins are cramped and
untidy, but are classier than expected with quality beds
and wooden furnishings. At the aft end of the hallway is
the entrance to the captain’s cabin.
For players investigating the Captain’s Cabin or the
Crew Cabins, see the sections below.
The Orlop deck
The orlop deck is a dark and foreboding area, with
even lower ceilings and dim lighting. The walls are made
of rough, unpolished wood and a palpable sense of dam-
pness lingers in the air. The deck has a series of small,
windowless cells. Stark and unadorned, each is outfitted
only with a narrow, fleabitten cot, a single barred door
that has more rust than metal, and a lock with a forebo-
ding weight.
 If the militia is not alerted by the trap in the captain’s
cabin, two militiamen (Guard) await the party here,
seeking to ambush and capture anyone foolish enough to
investigate lower. To this end, the orlop deck is kept in
darkness.
The Captain’s Cabin
The room seems untouched by time, the air is thick
and musty, with a distinct, coppery smell that seems
to cling to the walls and floorboards. The decoration is
simple and older than the rest of the ship and the wooden
floorboards groan underfoot. A heavy wooden desk domi-
nates the center of the room strewn with old maps and
age-yellowed charts. This cabin has been the Crimson
Owl’s home for almost forty years, Before he was Hooty
the Clown, he was Horatio Tawny, captain of the Dread
when it was still a pirate vessel.
Opening the door to the cabin triggers the striking of
the ship’s bell, which alerts the militiamen to the party’s
presence. This trap can be spotted with a DC 18 Wisdom
(Perception) check and disarmed with a successful DC 14
Dexterity (Sleight of Hand) check. If alerted, six mili-
tiamen (Guard) trap the party in the cabin forcing the par-
ty to break free with a DC 14 Strength (Athletics) check.
In order to escape before reinforcements arrive, the party
may flee the ship, or sail the ship from the port. The more
time spent, the more guards will join the fray.
In order to sail the ship away from port, four mooring
lines on the upper deck (AC 12 with 1 hit point each)
must be severed and the anchor must be raised with a DC
14 Strength (Athletics) check.
After 3 rounds have elapsed, the militiaman (Guard)
from the crow’s nest joins the fray and a second bell can
be heard tolling from the docks.
After 4 rounds, two additional militiamen guarding
the gangplank join the combat. (If the players entered
from the water, these reinforcements appear at the end of
round 5 instead).
At the end of round 6, the party must flee the ship
or sail it from port to block access by incoming militia
reinforcements. At the end of round 6, if the party is still
aboard the ship and the ship is still in port, six more
militiamen arrive, followed by three heavy guards (Cham-
pion) at the end of round 7.
141
The Crew Quarters
The door to the cramped crew quarters is shut. Nor-
mally bustling with members of the Shipton chapter, it is
empty save for the sounds of conversation between two
people. With a DC 14 Wisdom (Perception) check, the
party can peer through the keyhole and press their ear to
the door to catch the conversation within.
Inside the room, a red-haired woman in a long brown
coat stands facing her captive. Strapped to a chair and
impaled by several long daggers, is a man in clown
makeup—the Crimson Owl! Instead of blood however,
black ichor oozes around his wounds. Between them
stands a small wooden table holding a bowl of steaming
soup.
The first voice you hear is the woman, “Sounds like the
militia are rounding up more of your pets, huh?”
“Vot else can I say? I keep no pets save my dear rabbit,
Valter.”
“You are the spawn of darkness. You don’t keep pets,
only tools.”
“Vot an imagination, Madam. I am but a simple enter-
tainer!”
“If these new apostates can reveal other cells of your
heretic organisation, I will gladly drive a stake through
your heart.”
“Madam does like her little jokes. You know, you vould
be a perfect addition to ze circus!”
“You leave me no choice. I would say I regret it has
come to this…” The woman steps closer to the table
before delicately lifting a spoonful of the soup, “but I’d be
lying.”
You watch as a spoonful of hot soup flings from the
utensil—the rich broth weightless for a moment at the
peak of its arc—before its tumultuous descent towards
the Crimson Owl. He screams on impact as the soup
melts his skin and the strong smell of garlic fills the air.
“Fine, FINE! I VILL CONFESS!”
The woman smirks and puts down the spoon, “Do go
on.”
“The accent. My accent. It’s fake. It’s all fake,” He
hisses in a breath before continuing, “I thought a foreign
accent would help me seem exotic, but I was born just
down the coast in Muln.” A clink and another spoonful of
soup strikes his flesh, which bubbles and melts.
“PLEASE, NO MORE!
I CONFESS,” he sucks
in a deep breath, “I DID
NOT GO TO CLOWN
SCHOOL! I AM A
FRAUD!”
The torture continues in this vein, but the party may inter-
rupt at any point. If they do, Rouge (Apprentice Assas- Champion
sin) reacts suddenly: Medium humanoid (any race), lawful evil

On her first turn she flees towards the porthole, intent on Armor Class 18 (Plate)
throwing herself from the room. Using her necklace of Hit Points 33 (6d8 + 6)
fireballs she will cast a 3rd level fireball in the centre of Speed 30 ft.
the room. Any creature within the room, including Rouge
and the Crimson Owl (Half Vampire), will be within the STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
radius. Rouge takes half damage on a failed save and no 16 (+3) 14 (+2) 12 (+1) 10 (+0) 12 (+1) 14 (+2)
damage on a successful save as she hurls herself into the
port waters. The Crimson Owl is wearing a ring of fire Senses Passive Perception 11
resistance. Languages Common
Challenge 2, 400 XP
The red-haired woman flees toward the porthole,
snatching something from around her neck and throws Leader. The champion can spend its reaction to make
it behind her. The resulting explosion blinds you for an a willing creature reroll a saving throw.
instant and the last you see of her is her face—badly
burned—before she strikes the surface of the water. She
Actions
does not rise again.
Multiattack. The champion makes three melee at-
tacks when attacking with its greatsword.
Although scarred, Rouge will drink her potion of water
Greatsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +65 to hit, reach
breathing and swim far from the Dread, hoping to fight
5 ft., one target. Hit: 10 (2d6 + 3) slashing damage.
another day.
Heavy Crossbow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +5 to hit,
range 100/400 ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d10 + 3) pier-
The Crimson Owl is unfazed by the attack and re-
cing damage.
cognises the party is here to liberate him. At the DM’s
discretion, if any of the party is killed or reduced to zero
hit points by the blast, the Crimson Owl offers to revive
them as a vampire. Apprentice Assassin
Medium humanoid, any non-lawful alignment

Guard Armor Class 14 (Leather)

Medium humanoid (any race), any non-lawful align- Hit Points 48
ment Speed 40 ft.

Armor Class 15 (Studded Leather and Shield) STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
Hit Points 16 (3d8 + 3)
Speed 30 ft. 13 (+1) 16 (+3) 12 (+1) 8 (-1) 10 (+0) 10 (+0)

Senses Passive Perception 10

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA Languages Common, Infernal
14 (+2) 14 (+2) 12 (+1) 10 (+0) 10 (+0) 10 (+0) Challenge 1, 250 XP

Senses Passive Perception 10
Languages Common
Challenge ½, 100 XP
Actions
Multiattack. The guard makes two longsword at-
tacks or two light crossbow attacks
Longsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5
ft., one target. Hit: 6 (1d8 + 2) slashing damage.
Light Crossbow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +4 to hit,
range 80/320 ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d8 + 1) piercing
damage.
Sneak Attack. Once per turn, the assassin deals an
extra 140 (43d6) damage when it hits a target with
a weapon attack and has advantage on the attack
roll, or when the target is within 5 feet of an ally of
the assassin that isn’t incapacitated and the assassin
doesn’t have disadvantage on the attack roll.
Actions
Scimitar. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
one target. Hit: 6 (1d6 + 3) slashing damage.

142
 “I zink it’s time for ze Dread to disappear once more.
Half Vampire I am amazed she made it zis long vithout sinking. Take a
Medium undead, lawful evil row boat to shore, once I am done with my dinner, I shall
unmoor ze ship. You may tell ze High Varlock I shall pay
Armor Class 15 (Natural Armor) him a visit as quick as possible, I have a summoning ritual
Hit Points 74 (7d8+40) zat may pique his interest. Fare-vell.”
Speed 30 ft.
The Crimson Owl has asked the players to help free his
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA two lieutenants who are currently awaiting their trial
16 (+3) 16 (+3) 16 (+3) 11 (+0) 10 (+0) 12 (+1) which takes place the day after at sunset. After leaving the
ship, the players can lay low while they plan to infiltrate
Skills Perception +3, Stealth +6 the Shipton Cells. They are unlikely to be recognised, but
Damage Resistances Necrotic; Bludgeoning, Pier- should still take care.
cing and Slashing from nonmagical attacks If they ask around they will discover:
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 13
Languages Common The “cultists” are two of the mayor’s favourite perfor-
Challenge 3, 700 XP mers at the circus and he has refused to allow them to be
tortured (see: firmly questioned) before they have been
Bloodlust. The vampire has advantage on damage convicted.
rolls against any creature that doesn’t have all its hit Their trial will be held tomorrow and in the meantime,
points. they are being held in his manor house located in the
centre of town.
The main witness is a pious farmer from the outskirts
Actions
of town named Purity Chased. She claims to have seen
Multiattack. The Vampire makes two attacks: two
the two women enchanting her husband, along with other
claw attacks or one claw and one bite attack.
men, during their “risque” performances.
Claw. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
target. Hit: 8 (2d4 + 3) slashing damage or instead of
The party may have a number of plans but the two most li-
dealing damage, the Vampire can grapple the target
kely avenues are breaking Nadia and Svetlana free of the
(escape DC 13).
manor under cover of darkness, or keeping the primary
witness from the trial.

The Owl Strikes Back

“Vell that was entertaining. Vonderful timing, though
I vish you hadn’t waited quite so long at ze door.” He
looks questioningly between you and the silver manacles
binding him. “If you vould be so kind as to release me, I
vould very much like to hunt down zat delightful woman.
Ze soup did nothing to quench my thirst.”

If the party releases him, he smiles as his wounds begin

to heal.

“I vonder if you might do me a teensy, tiny, favor. Two

of my lieutenants, Nadia and Svetlana, are being held by
ze militia, I suspect in ze Shipton Cells. Zey have, hmm…
sensitive information and lack my capacity for pain. If you
could see to zer release, I vill give you zis ring.”

If they agree, he hands them the ring of fire resistance

and continues:

143
Myld Manor
In the centre of town stands the stately Myld Manor,
home to Shipton’s mayor and avid fan of The Circus of
Dreadful Delights. Mayor Ergaster Greedfall doesn’t
believe that his town’s famous circus is really an evil cult
and the Brotherhood of Light has not seen fit to divulge
further proof, or their plans to smoke out information on
other chapters. He staunchly believes in the innocence of
the two performers but has agreed to allow two members
of the town militia to guard the gates.
To scale the walls of the manor compound without
detection by the militia (Henchman) the party must each
make a DC 15 Strength (Athletics) or Dexterity (Acro-
batics) check. On a failed check, they scale the walls but
noise alerts the militia to run from the gate to investigate.
Inside the manor grounds, loud music can be heard
echoing from a second-floor balcony above. Players can
reach the balcony with a DC 14 Strength (Athletics) or
Dexterity (Acrobatics) check or enter via the unlocked
front door. The mayor has dismissed all his servants
for the night, allowing him to enjoy his entertainment
uninterrupted. Outside the room are two of the mayor’s
bodyguards (Champion) who come running at a shout
from the mayor.
As you enter the room, you see a most unusual sight.
What appears to be a lizardfolk in a pale blue leotard
performing balancing acrobatics but with her head buried
in a plant pot. At a groaning table of culinary delights is
a ravenous gnoll with face paint matted into her fur to
imitate a smile. Barely chewing, she shovels the food and
144
occasionally the tablecloth into
her mouth. Back to the balcony,
the mayor is lying on a chintzy
maroon and gold-tassled divan bed
giggling and clapping happily.
Inside the drawing room that opens
out onto the balcony, Nadia and Svet-
lana are putting on their most requested
performances. Nadia (Elven Druid) who entertains
crowds with various feats that involve holding her
breath for at least 15 minutes. At present, her act has
her defying death via a headstand in a soil-filled terra-
cotta pot. Svetlana is a competitive eater (Hobgoblin
Guard). When the players arrive, she has already started
eating her way through the dining table and its feast.
Mayor Greedfall (Young Apprentice) will scream
if he sees the party, alerting his guards if they are still
alive. He will not try to fight and instead begs for his life.
Nadia and Svetlana are more confused than startled
and stop their performances to listen to the party. Once
they realise they are being freed, they do not hesitate to
leave with the party even as the mayor begs them to stay
with promises to pardon them. Their response to his
pleadings is quick as they ask him to pick one of them: If
he chooses Nadia, they knock him unconscious and bury
his head in the plant pot; if he picks Svetlana, she bites
off his hand and leaves him to bleed out.
Henchman Champion
Medium humanoid, lawful alignment Medium humanoid, lawful evil

Armor Class 17 (Splint) Armor Class 18 (Plate)

Hit Points 22 (4d8 + 4) Hit Points 33 (6d8 + 6)
Speed 30 ft. Speed 30 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
16 (+3) 14 (+2) 12 (+1) 10 (+0) 10 (+0) 10 (+0) 16 (+3) 14 (+2) 12 (+1) 10 (+0) 12 (+1) 14 (+2)

Senses Passive Perception 10 Senses Passive Perception 11

Languages Common Languages Common
Challenge 1, 250 XP Challenge 2, 400 XP

Actions Leader. The champion can spend its reaction to

Multiattack. The henchman makes two melee attacks
when attacking with its longsword.
Longsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5
ft., one target. Hit: 8 (1d10 + 3) slashing damage.
Heavy Crossbow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +4 to hit,
range 100/400 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d10 + 2) pier-
cing damage.
Elven Druid
Medium humanoid, neutral
make a willing creature reroll a saving throw.
Actions
Multiattack. The champion makes three melee at-
tacks when attacking with its greatsword.
Greatsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +65 to hit, reach
5 ft., one target. Hit: 10 (2d6 + 3) slashing damage.
Heavy Crossbow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +5 to hit,
range 100/400 ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d10 + 3) pier-
cing damage.

Armor Class 11 (16 with barkskin) Hobgoblin Guard

Hit Points 27 (5d8 + 5) Medium goblinoid, lawful evil
Speed 30 ft., swim 30 ft., climb 20 ft.
Armor Class 14 (Scalemail)
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA Hit Points 23 (4d8 + 4)
15 (+2) 14 (+2) 13 (+1) 10 (+0) 14 (+2) 8 (-1) Speed 30 ft.

Skills Medicine +4, Nature +3, Perception +4
Senses Passive Perception 14
Languages Common, Sylvan
Challenge 2, 450 XP
Emergency Shapechange (1/day). When the druid
reaches 0 HP, he transforms into a giant adder.
Spellcasting. The druid is a 3rd-level spellcaster. Its
spellcasting ability is Wisdom (spell save DC 12, +4
to hit with spell attacks). It has the following druid
spells prepared:
1st level (3 slots): entangle, longstrider, thun
derwave
2nd level (2 slots): barkskin
Actions
Sling. Ranged Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, range
30/120 ft., one target. Hit: 10 (1d6 + 2) bludgeoning
damage.
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
13 (+1) 12 (+1) 12 (+1) 10 (+0) 10 (+0) 9 (-1)
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 10
Languages Common, Goblin, Common
Challenge 1, 200 XP
Martial Advantage. Once per turn, the hobgoblin can
deal an extra 10 (3d6) damage to a creature it hits
with a weapon attack if that creature is within 5 feet
of an ally of the hobgoblin that isn’t incapacitated.
Actions
Longsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach
5 ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d8 + 1) piercing damage. If
used with two hands, the damage is 6 (1d10 + 1).
Longbow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, range
150/600 ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d8 + 1) piercing
damage.

145
 Young Priest Tamed Worg
Medium humanoid, lawful Medium humanoid, any non-lawful alignment

Armor Class 15 (Chain Shirt and Shield) Armor Class 13 (Natural Armor)
Hit Points 22 (4d8 + 4) Hit Points 26 (4d10 + 4)
Speed 30 ft. Speed 50 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
10 (+0) 11 (+0) 12 (+1) 14 (+2) 14 (+2) 14 (+2) 16 (+3) 13 (+1) 13 (+1) 7 (-2) 11 (+0) 8 (-1)

Senses Passive Perception 12 Skills Perception + 4

Languages Common
Challenge 1, 250 XP
Spellcasting. The priest is a 2nd-level spellcaster. Its
spellcasting ability is Wisdom (spell save DC 13, +5
to hit with spell attacks). The priest has the following
cleric spells prepared:
Cantrips (at will): sacred flame
1st level (3 slots): Heroism, guiding bolt, bless
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 14
Languages Understands Goblin but cannot speak
Challenge ½, 100 XP
Keen Hearing and Smell. The worg has advantage
on Wisdom (Perception) checks that rely on hearing
or smell.
Prestige Mount. The worg is a terrifying and loyal
mount, known for its ferocity in battle. When a rider
mounts the worg, they are granted advantage on all
attack rolls.The worg has the same initiative of its
rider.

Chased Farm Actions

Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
Chased Farm is not far from the town, only a half an target. Hit: 10 (2d6 + 3) piercing damage. If the target
hour’s walk. Surrounded by fields of sun-kissed wheat is a medium or small creature, it must succeed on a
and flanked by two large, weathered barns, the sizable DC 13 Strength saving throw or be knocked prone.
blue cottage can be easily seen from the road. While the
farmstead is picturesque and inviting, its owners are not
overly fond of unexpected visitors…

The party’s chances of sneaking up on the farm are Young Apprentice

slim as three hounds (Tamed Worg) diligently guard the Medium humanoid, lawful
farmhouse and begin to bark as soon as they notice any
intruders. Upon hearing the dogs, the door to the cottage Armor Class 12
bursts open to frame Purity’s brother, Celibacy Abbot Hit Points 19 (3d8 + 6)
(Young Priest). He’ll bar the way, while Purity screams at Speed 30 ft.
her dogs to attack, initiating combat. At the beginning of
round two, three more brothers: Devotion, Modesty and
Humility (Guards) burst from one of the barns to protect STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
Purity. 11 (+0) 14 (+2) 10 (+0) 14 (+2) 11 (+0) 10 (+0)

In order to reach Purity, the party will have to incapaci- Skills Arcana +2, Deception +2
tate everyone else, but she herself can be intimidated. Senses Passive Perception 10
Languages Common
“I suppose you want me to withdraw my claims about Challenge ½, 50 XP
those witches!” she spits, quaking with terror, “Well I…I
won’t, light protect me.” Devotion. The apprentice has advantage on saving
throws against spells.
A DC 12 Wisdom (Insight) check reveals that she is
lying about withdrawing the charges. Further prodding Actions
reveals she just wishes to see her husband and children Scimitar. Melee Weapon Attack: +3 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
again, who are staying with her sister in town. A DC 14 one target. Hit: 4 (1d6 + 1) slashing damage.
Charisma (Intimidation or Perception) check is enough to Fire Blast. Melee Spell Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
convince her to withdraw from the trial. one target. Hit: 11 (2d10) fire damage.

146

Guard
Medium humanoid, any non-lawful alignment
Armor Class 15 (Studded Leather and Shield)
Hit Points 16 (3d8 + 3)
Speed 30 ft.
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
14 (+2) 14 (+2) 12 (+1) 10 (+0) 10 (+0) 10 (+0)
Senses Passive Perception 10
Languages Common
Challenge ½, 100 XP
Actions
Multiattack. The guard makes two longsword at-
tacks or two light crossbow attacks
Longsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5
ft., one target. Hit: 6 (1d8 + 2) slashing damage.
Light Crossbow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +4 to hit,
range 80/320 ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d8 + 1) piercing
damage.
Conclusion
Once the party has freed the Crimson Owl and saved his
lieutenants from conviction, they are free to return to
the High Warlock. Halfway back to Hatbury, they come
across a curious sight.
Moonlight floods the sky, illuminating the dark lands-
cape. From the direction of Shipton, a dark cloud rises
and coalesces, before it’s dark mass moves southwest
towards you. Hundreds of tiny bodies twist and careen
over one another as thousands of unholy screeches echo
overhead, signalling the Crimson Owl’s presence. Even
after they have passed, shivers still run down your spine.
You’ve never seen so many budgies at once before.
The High Warlock welcomes you with much praise
once you return.
“Congratulations are in order. With our new base of
operations and the Crimson Owl back in the fold, we are
in a better position than we have been in years! And new
allies have joined our cause.”
As if on cue, the rising sounds of muffled chanting and
incantations can be heard from the next room and shortly
after that, the distinct smell of sulphur.
“The Crimson Owl has proved most helpful, even now
we summon creatures both great and terrible!”
A rumble from the next room then a terrifying screech
that echoes through the base: “POLLY WANNA CRAC-
KER!”
The party will advance to 5th level.
147
Defend The Base!
At the conclusion of this chapter, the players’ secret lair
and home to the Endarkened Brotherhood has been
discovered by a greedy band of thieves known as the
Blackhands.The Blackhands are not to be underes-
timated and will stop at nothing to claim what is not
rightfully theirs. They have laid eyes on the riches and
treasures accumulated by the Endarkened Brotherhood
and seek to plunder them for their own gain.
Now it’s time for the players to defend the base, their
hard-won treasures, and protect their secret lair from
these invaders.
Winning condition
This special tactical combat tasks players with defending
their secret lair from a band of thieves who have learned
of the organization’s treasures.
The objective is to incapacitate at least two of the thieves
before they reach the core of the dungeon and spend a full
turn there. If left unchecked they will discover the secret
passage and make off with the treasures found within. If
successful, the remaining thieves will attempt to flee the
scene.
Assault team
Scout: Aranrus Koyle the Martial Artist
Area Spellcaster: Iravis
Tank: Blaze Fury the Bodyguard
The attacker CR is 7 and the defending team is CR 11
(9 for defenders with 2 for traps and artefacts).
DM may adjust if needed.
Aftermath
If the party succeeds: The thieves guild will retract their
orders to target the Endarkened Brotherhood and as an
apology will send negotiators to offer one random trap
and the players a new member to defend their base. This
could be a henchman or an apprentice assassin, trained
in stealth and combat to aid the players in their future
endeavors.
If the party failed: The party has incurred the wrath of
the High Warlock. As he expresses his disappointment,
he warns that continued failure could have dire conse-
quences for their membership in the organization. He
does have some benevolence in him given the parties
prior successes and gives them another chance to step up
their game and redeem their incompetence.
Attacking Heroes

Aranrus Koyle Iravis

Medium humanoid (Tiefling), lawful neutral (Assas- Medium Humanoid (High Elf), Chaotic good (Wizard
sin) Bladedancer)

Armor Class 15 (Leather Armor) Armor Class 17 (Natural armor)

Hit Points 33 (5d10 +7) Hit Points 27 (5d8+5)
Speed 30 ft. Speed 40 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
10 (+0) 18 (+4) 12 (+1) 12 (+1) 8 (-1) 12 (+1) 8 (-1) 16 (+3) 12 (+1) 18 (+4) 8 (-1) 10 (+0)

Saving Throws DEX +7, INT +4
Skills Perception +7, Stealth +7
Damage resistances Cold, Fire, Poison
Senses Passive Perception 11
Languages Common, Infernal
Challenge 2, 450 XP
Sneak Attack. Once per turn, Aranrus deals an
extra 10 (3d6) damage when they hit a target with
a weapon attack and either have advantage on the
attack roll, or when the target is within 5 feet of an
ally of Aranrus that isn’t incapacitated and Aranrus
doesn’t have disadvantage on the attack roll.
Saving Throws INT +8, CON +5, WIS +5
Skills Acrobatics +7, Arcana +8
Senses Passive Perception 12
Languages Common, Elven
Challenge 2, 450 XP
Spellcasting. Iravis is a 4th-level spellcaster. Their
spellcasting ability is Intelligence (spell save DC 14,
+6 to hit with spell attacks). They have the following
spells prepared:
Cantrips (at will): Poison Spray, Acid Splash
1st level (4 slots): Magic Missile, Shield
2nd level (2 slots): Misty step, Flaming Sphere

Blessing
Martial Artist. Once on their turn, this hero can
exchange his position with a creature it just hit with a
melee attack, without provoking any attacks of oppor-
tunity, and deals an extra 5 damage to that target.
Actions
Shortsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5
ft., one target. Hit: 6 (1d6 + 3) slashing damage.

Actions
Multiattack. Aranrus makes two shortsword attacks.
Shortsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5
ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d6 + 4) piercing damage.

148
Blaze Fury Mystery Frog
Medium fey (Fey), lawful good (Beast master) Large beast, lawful good

Armor Class 17 (Scale Mail) Armor Class 15

Hit Points 42 (5d10 +14) Hit Points 22 (4d10)
Speed 30 ft., swim 30 ft. Speed 30 ft., swim 30 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
12 (+1) 14 (+2) 16 (+3) 8 (-1) 14 (+2) 12 (+1) 12 (+1) 15 (+2) 11 (+0) 2 (-5) 10 (+0) 3 (-4)

Saving Throws : STR +4, DEX +5 Skills Perception +2, Stealth +3

Skills : Athletics +4, Stealth +5
Damage Resistance: Psychic
Senses : Passive Perception 13
Languages : Common, Fey
Challenge 2, 450 XP)
Wildling Hunter. Whenever you damage a hostile
humanoid you deal an extra 2 piercing damage.
Blessings
Bodyguard. Whenever an ally within 5 ft. of the hero
receives damage from an attack, spell or effect they
can spend their reaction to exchange positions with
that ally and become the new target of the damage.
If the hero has resistance to the damage type being
received, it is adjusted as usual.
Actions
Multiattack. Blaze can make two attacks.
Shortbow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, range
80/320 ft., one target. Hit: 5(1d6 + 2) bludgeoning
damage.
Shortsword. Melee weapon attack: +5 to hit, reach
5ft., one target. Hit: 5(1d6 + 2) slashing damage.
Senses Darkvision 30 ft., Passive Perception 12
Challenge ½, 100 XP
Amphibious. The frog can breathe air and water.
Standing Leap. The frog’s long jump is up to 20 feet
and its high jump is up to 10 feet, with or without a
running start.
Actions
Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
one target. Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) piercing damage, and the
target is grappled (escape DC 12). Until this grapple
ends, the target is restrained, and the frog can’t bite
another target.
Swallow. The frog makes one bite attack against a
Small or smaller target it is grappling. If the attack
hits, the target is swallowed, and the grapple ends.
The swallowed target is blinded and restrained, has
total cover against attacks and other effects outside
the frog, and it takes 7 (3d4) acid damage at the start
of each of the frog’s turns.
The frog can have only one target swallowed at a
time. If the frog dies, a swallowed creature is no lon-
ger restrained by it and can escape from the corpse
using 5 feet of movement, exiting prone.

149
 Chapter 3 Knowledge is our Enemy
Within the Library of Hatbury
“You may be wondering why I have gathered you
here…” begins the High Warlock.
“We was here for the meeting, sir,” says a hooded man.
“Yes, well—this is a special meeting!” he clears his
throat, “As you all know, we have recently come up against
the Brotherhood of Light. Our spies have told us that they
are entrusting a powerful artefact to the Sons of Knowle-
ge, those bloody know-it-alls.”
“What kind of artefact!” asks a three-foot high goblin
who missed the memo about black robes. “Is it worth
something?”
The High Warlock’s eyes take in the fluffy dressing
gown and the glint in the goblin’s eye. “It’s worth so-
mething to them. They value it dearly and have clearly
given it to the Sons because they fail to comprehend what
it does!” He laughs and the rest of the cult immediately
joins in with hoots and cackles.
“So what does it do?” asks the goblin. The High War-
lock narrows his eyes.
“That is none of your concern, initiate.” He looks at you.
“This is a task for seasoned acolytes.”
“Nepotism.” someone mutters as the group turns to
regard you.
“You will infiltrate the Sons of Knowledge and destroy
this artifact. You must remember, however, we are a SE-
CRET organisation, so finding an appropriate cover is of
the utmost importance.”
“How will they know where to find them? Asks a green-
scaled figure doing a handstand, much to the chagrin of
the High Warlock.
“The Sons of Knowledge have told us themselves;
they’re the registered owners of the local library.”
“Aren’t they meant to be a secret organisation too?”
“Yes, but the fools cannot lie! Ahahaha!” The High
Warlock leads the chorus of laughter which is once more
interrupted by the goblin.
“What does this artefact look like then?” he glances
around, “We might spot it in transit or something.”
The High Warlock glowers at the goblin for its inces-
sant interruptions, “Well… I am not precisely sure…”
150
The party must come up with a cover story that will allow
them to enter the library and snoop around. The High
Warlock can impart the following information:
The Hatbury Library is the oldest building in the town
and its vaults contain many rare books.
Most townsfolk are aware of the “secret” organisation
but choose to ignore it, finding it uninteresting over the
well kept library.
One of the new initiates of the Sons is a young
noblewoman named Preena Hardback. She has little in
common with the organisation’s values, but enjoys the
prestige she gains from it. She primarily acts in her own
interest.
Many businesses seek out the Sons of Knowledge for
an edge against their competitors or the knowledge to
improve their business.
The party must do their own research to find a way into
the Library.
Lady Preena Hardback
Lady Preena Hardback can be found most days in the
classy Fluffy Pastry Cafe. She will look down her nose
at anyone who approaches her, but offers of fame bring
a sparkle to her eye. As the party enters the cafe, anyone
with a Passive Perception of 14 or greater overhear Pree-
na speaking to her companions, three women in ornate
and sparkling dresses:
“-tomorrow. It’s to be a grand affair by all accounts
and I can’t wait to upstage the Grand Scrutiniser. He may
churlishly comment on my gowns, but his barely covers
his knees and frankly, he does not have the ankles for it.”
The party may learn the following information if they sit
close and continue to listen in to Preena’s conversation
or, if the party chooses to converse with Preena:
The Sons are preparing for their annual event, where
they will ask their goddess to grant them understanding
about a particular object or subject.
The library will be closed tomorrow night for this
event, but many people will be entering via the bar next
door, the Secret Entrance.
If asked about Arthoria Hardback: Arthoria Hardback
has come on a personal mission from King Boric to ask
the Sons if they can determine who destroyed the Prin-
cess’s dress.
If conversing, a DC 15 Charisma (Persuasion) check
is required to convince Preena to impart further details.
The party gains advantage on the check if they allude
to her that doing so will enhance her image or spread
her fame.
“Well, that does seem intriguing. My cousin, Arthoria
Hardback, is visiting on a business trip and she could
carry rumour of me back to Muln! With her connections
in society perhaps even the King or the poor Princess will
hear of it.”
The name of the event is the Ritual of Apprehension.
The Sons are incapable of deceit, but she has heard
that during the ritual, no lie can be spoken.
If Preena is pushed too far, threatened or grows tired
of the repeated questions from the party, she signals her
guards to attack. The three women (Champion) all pull
weapons from beneath the table and politely tell the party
to leave, attacking if they do not listen.
Note: If the party is unable to obtain the information re-
garding the ritual through the conversation with Preena,
they may still have a chance to uncover it through their
explorations of the library or by random encounters with
the Brotherhood of Light or the town militia.
Scouting the Library
The party may choose to scout out the Library ahead
of time.
The Library of Hatbury is a tall conical building with
ancient stonework which has since been sandwiched in
between other structures. One is an unobtrusive buil-
ding named the Krispy Winery and the other appears to
be a bar named Secret
Entrance, featuring a
sign depicting a book-
case half covering a
door. Other than the
main door, there are
two other entrances: an
unobtrusive staff door
in the side street, and a
door in the back, likely
used for shipments.
tage on any Intelligence (History, Nature or Religion)
checks. If asked directly about the Sons of Knowledge,
he falls silent but will not speak a lie. The best way to
glean information from Pennan is via deceit or coercion.
A DC 14 Charisma (Deception) check can ask seemingly
unobtrusive questions to discern the following informa-
tion. If the party does not have a cover story, they have
disadvantage on this check.
The Library has extensive underground vaults.
The King of Muln occasionally patronises the Libra-
ry, and has sent an envoy to meet the Chief Librarian,
Biblius Tome.
The Library is closed tomorrow for a private event
(this can also be discovered via a DC 12 Wisdom (Per-
ception) check, as there are signs near the door commu-
nicating this).
A DC 15 Charisma (Intimidation) check will reveal the
following information:
The Sons are preparing for their annual event, the Ri-
tual of Apprehension, where they will ask their goddess
to grant them understanding about a particular object or
subject.
The underground vaults have more than one en-
trance, one of which is through the library itself.
If the party is looking around the library, a DC 14 Intelli-
gence (Investigation) check locates a hidden and locked
entrance that would lead downwards to the vaults.

If the party enters

the Library, they are
greeted by a scribe
named Pennan Quill
(Blue Mage), who will
offer to help them with
any queries.

“Welcome to Hatbury
Library, how can I help
you? If it’s information
you seek, you’ve come
to the right place, this
is the greatest centre of
knowledge in Carte!”
Pennan can help
them with any general
knowledge queries,
granting them advan-

151
 The Ritual of Apprehension
Champion
Medium humanoid, lawful evil When the party is ready to infiltrate the ritual they
must first enter the Vaults.
Armor Class 18 (Plate)
Hit Points 33 (6d8 + 6) If they stake out the library, they note that many well-
Speed 30 ft. dressed people, including Lady Preena Hardback, seem
to be entering the Secret Entrance bar, instead of the
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA library.
16 (+3) 14 (+2) 12 (+1) 10 (+0) 12 (+1) 14 (+2)
Entering via the Library
Senses Passive Perception 11
Languages Common With the local constabulary making their rounds, a DC
Challenge 2, 400 XP 15 Dexterity (Stealth) group check is also advisable to
avoid detection. This check is made with disadvantage if
the party uses the streetside rather than the back of the
Leader. The champion can spend its reaction to make Library. As the Library is closed for a private event, the
a willing creature reroll a saving throw. party will find all doors locked so entering the library re-
quires a DC 15 Strength (Athletics) or Dexterity (Sleight
Actions of Hand) check to break in. Significant noise will alert any
Multiattack. The champion makes three melee at- inside the library to their presence.
tacks when attacking with its greatsword.
Greatsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +65 to hit, reach Pennan Quill (Blue Mage) is still in the library, cata-
5 ft., one target. Hit: 10 (2d6 + 3) slashing damage. loguing books and preparing himself for the ritual. If he
Heavy Crossbow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, is alerted to a break-in, he will summon two creatures
range 100/400 ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d10 + 3) pier- (Gargoylite) to investigate and will follow closely after.
cing damage. If he is not alerted the party will find him at the central
desk. The party would have to make an exceptional DC
20 Charisma (Deception) check to convince Pennan they
are not the infiltrators they appear to be. If failed, he will
Blue Mage
summon the two Gargolites and use the desk as cover.
Medium humanoid, any lawful alignment
Once Pennan has been dealt with, the door to the
Armor Class 14 (Mage Armor)
vaults below can be forced with a DC 12 Intelligence(In-
Hit Points 31 (7d8)
vestigation) check. This door leads to the Scrutiniser’s
Speed 30 ft.
study.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA Entering via the Secret Entrance Bar
10 (+0) 12 (+1) 10 (+0) 16 (+3) 14 (+2) 14 (+2)
The Secret Entrance is, techni-
Senses Passive Perception 12 cally, a front. The bar is sponsored
Languages Common by the Sons of Knowledge and
Challenge 3, 700 XP serves as the “secret” entrance
to the vaults beneath the Library.
Spellcasting. The mage is a 5th-level spellcaster. Its To avoid duplicity, however, the
spellcasting ability is Wisdom (spell save DC 14, +6 to Sons of Knowledge are quite
hit with spell attacks). They have the following wizard open about the entrance but most
spells prepared: people view it as a simple quirk of
Cantrips (at will): fire bolt, light, mage hand, the bar.
1st level (4 slots): mage armor, magic missile,
shield Entering the bar does not draw
2nd level (3 slots): misty step, shatter any specific attention and there
is something of a festival atmos-
phere inside. Many people are
dawdling over drinks to catch up
with friends and only a few are
headed for the open door behind
an old bookcase.

152
 Passing through the door there is a small queue down Blue Mage
a flight of stairs where people enter the chamber ahead Medium humanoid, any lawful alignment
one at a time. No one enters the queue behind the party
and they can watch the person ahead. Armor Class 14 (Mage Armor)
Hit Points 31 (7d8)
A blue light briefly shines in the passageway, illumina- Speed 30 ft.
ting the man in front of you before a deep, earthy voice
speaks, “IF YOU WOULD ENTER YOU MUST FIRST STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
SPEAK WHAT YOU SEEK.” 10 (+0) 12 (+1) 10 (+0) 16 (+3) 14 (+2) 14 (+2)
The man’s reedy voice pipes up in reply, “I seek the Senses Passive Perception 12
knowledge of the ancients, the truth of history and purpo- Languages Common
se of life!” Challenge 3, 700 XP
“FALSE.” Spellcasting. The mage is a 5th-level spellcaster. Its
spellcasting ability is Wisdom (spell save DC 14, +6 to
“What! I say, well- fine! Fine! It’s the food! I’m here for hit with spell attacks). They have the following wizard
the free buffet, I love the quiche at these things, please spells prepared:
just one more bite. NOOOO!” His pleading is cut off Cantrips (at will): fire bolt, light, mage hand,
suddenly with a loud crunch. 1st level (4 slots): mage armor, magic missile,
shield
It is a party member’s turn next. When they reach the 2nd level (3 slots): misty step, shatter
entrance to the room they see a tall construct in ancient
bronze armour (Rock Golem) towering over them, its
eyes flashing a bright blue. It will repeats it’s phrase once
when a creature first enters the room:
Gargoylite
Medium fiend, chaotic evil
IF YOU WOULD ENTER YOU MUST FIRST SPEAK
WHAT YOU SEEK.
Armor Class 13 (Natural Armor)
Hit Points 30 (4d8 + 12)
Party members trained in Arcana may make a DC 14
Speed 30 ft., fly 60 ft.
check to recognize that the guardian has cast a zone of
truth spell, which impacts a player as they enter the room
and requires a DC 15 Charisma saving throw. If a charac- STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
ter chooses to fail this saving throw and be affected by the 15 (+2) 11 (+0) 16 (+3) 6 (-2) 11 (+0) 7 (+2)
spell, they have an opportunity to answer the guardian’s
question. If they do not fail the saving throw, however, Damage Resistances Bludgeoning, Piercing and
the character is attacked by the guardian. The guardian Slashing from nonmagical attacks not made with
will accept any truth the character speaks to it, but it is adamantine weapons; Poison
intelligent enough to recognise an answer that involves Condition Immunities Exhaustion, Petrified, Poi-
threat or theft, and will attack. A character can circu- soned
mvent this challenge by answering more vaguely with a Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 10
true statement that does not directly relate to the current Challenge 1, 200 XP
task (for example, “I seek fame”).
False Appearance. While the gargoylite remains
Once a charac- motionless, it is indistinguishable from an inanimate
ter bypasses the statue.
guardian, they
may enter the Actions
vaults, and the Multiattack. The gargoylite makes two attacks: one
next player can with its bite and one with its claws.
enter the room. If Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
the characters de- target. Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) piercing damage.
feat the guardian Claw. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
through guile or one target. Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) slashing damage. Once
combat, they can per round Iif the attack is successful, the gargoyle
enter the vaults. may make an extra bite attack against a second target
within 5 ft. of the first one.

153
Rock Golem The Vaults of Knowledge
Large construct, neutral evil
The Vaults are a series of rooms beneath the Library.
Armor Class 15 in moving form, 20 in defensive Most are for the storage and study of valuable documents
stance and artefacts. There is also the Ritual Chamber, the Scru-
Hit Points 58 (9d10 + 18) tinizer’s Study and the Hall of the Goddess.
Speed 15 ft.
The atmosphere within the Vaults is more respect-
ful than in the bar above, with knots of people deep in
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA conversation. Most people congregate in the Hall of the
18 (+4) 10 (+0) 15 (+2) 8 (-1) 10 (+0) 9 (-1) Goddess, while the Grand Scrutiniser meets with Artho-
ria Hardbackin his Study. The Ritual Chamber contains
Immunities Acid, Cold, Fire, Poison the Celestial Statue belonging to the Brotherhood of
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 9 Light.
Languages Understands the languages of its creator
but can’t speak Hall of the Goddess
Challenge 2, 450 XP
The Hall of the Goddess features an altar piled with
Magic Resistance. The golem has the advantage supplicant’s favourite tomes and messages written to
of saving throws against spells and other magical the goddess and several benches where a number of the
effects. Sons of Knowledge sit and speak amongst themselves.
Defensive Stance. The golem can turn himself as An open doorway to the left of the room leads to a hallway
an immovable object that blocks doors or passages. and faint conversation between a man and woman can be
While in this stance, the golem cannot move or use heard from beyond, but not fully discerned.
any action.
While in this room, players will draw the attention of
Actions the Sons as those in attendance are familiar with their
Ground stomp. Any creature with 5 ft. of the golem members. None are suspicious enough to act on this, but
must make a DC 14 Dexterity saving throw or suffer 7 should the players try to enter the Ritual Chamber, an
(2d6) bludgeoning damage. outcry will go up and the party will find itself questioned
and perhaps attacked. At any given time, four priests
(SRD 401) are in the room, along with ten commoners
(SRD 398), who will try to flee conflict.

A number of rumours can be overheard while naviga-

ting this chamber. A DC 14 Wisdom (Perception) check
allows players to hear one of the following:

The King has sent an envoy to discover who spoiled

the Princess’s dress. They are in the Grand Scrutiniser’s
study right now.
“Did you see her? The King’s envoy. Very pomp and fancy.
I heard she’s here to find out who spoiled the Princess’s
dress. I saw her while she was by the refreshments. I’d
love to be a fly on the wall of the Grand Scrutinizer’s
office right now!”

The artefact the Sons will be investigating during the

ritual is a celestial silver statue.
“I saw them boys drag it in. A big silver statue. Quite
vulgar art if you ask me. Far too much flesh on show. But
if that’s what the Grand Scrutinizer wants us to seek
knowledge on, very well. I know his game.”

The Ritual room is presently undergoing its final clean

and any dirt or dust could disrupt the runes and dispel the
zone of truth.

154
“They’ve got the wobblers in there now. You know any
dirt or dust might disrupt the runes and damage the truth
spell. They’ll take care of it.”
Scarlet
As you are passing through the crowd your heart
freezes as a familiar face catches your eye. Long red hair
and a flash of dark eyes. The same woman you last saw
throwing herself out of a porthole on the Dread.
In order to avoid her sight without attracting suspicion,
the party must make a DC 16 Dexterity (Stealth) check
and if any character fails the check:
She looks straight at you and her eyes widen in recogni-
tion. She moves toward you suddenly and then passes
straight by, striking up an animated conversation with an
elderly man in a white robe.
Scarlet is the sister of Rouge, who the party has
already encountered. Scarlet however has no reason to
suspect the party, especially here of all places.
Corridor
This long corridor connects to a multitude of rooms for
learning and storage as well as two offices, one of which
is the Grand Scrutiniser’s personal study.
Corridor Secret Door
Halfway along the corridor to the Grand Master’s
study, there is a secret door that can be opened by pulling
a level cunningly disguised as a lit torch. The presence
of the secret door can be found with a DC 17 Wisdom
(Perception) check and the lever can be found with a DC
15 Intelligence (Investigation) check. The door leads to
a small antechamber containing the Yummsh Cooking
Pot (page 34) and a silver bell. Another door leads off the
antechamber into the ritual chamber.
Scrutiniser’s Study
The corridor from the Hall of the Goddess to the Scru-
tiniser’s Study is quiet save for the muffled tones of a man
and woman speaking. No one is surprised to see people
heading towards the study as many entreat the Grand Scru-
tiniser with questions about their studies. This room can
also be accessed via the Library upstairs through a hidden
door, and the Grand Scrutiniser only expects Pennan to
use this entrance. A sign hangs to the side of the door with
the words Grand Scrutiniser Biblius Tome on one side and
when flipped, Chief Librarian: Biblius Tome on the other.
Already meeting with Tome is Lady Arthoria Hardback
155
(end of chapter and page 97), a trusted servant of King
Boric of Muln. She is seeking to discover who bespoiled the
Princess’s dress. With a successful DC 15 Wisdom (Percep-
tion) check, the party can overhear the following while in
the hallway.
“Can you do it? Know that the king would be most
pleased to find those responsible. He would reward you
and your order handsomely,” says a woman in a low, confi-
dent voice: Arthoria.
“We are always grateful for the king’s patronage, but
we cannot be bought. I have promised to beseech the
goddess in another matter in this year’s ritual, I cannot
produce the names of those who ruined Princess Cha-
rity’s wedding. I am truly sorry, Arthoria.” from an older
reedy voice you suspect is the Grand Scrutiniser.
“Who could have more importance than the king? See
sense, I beg of you!” Arthoria’s anger sounds barely held
in check.
“I cannot say and you know we are unable to break our
word. The best I can do is enchant the cloth to guide you
in the right direction. You have a piece of the dress, yes?”
“I do.” Arthoria’s voice sounds sheepish. There is the
sound of rustling and something being tossed on the desk.
“Ah, I see. This particular part?”
“It was the most stained.”
“Indeed,” the Grand Scrutiniser begins to chant. With a
final incantation, a flash of light outlines the doorway. “Let
us see…oh.”
“It’s supposed to glow like that?”
“Why -er...yes!”
“Right now?” demands Arthoria.
“When the culprits are in proximity.”
“I would guess you are not the culprit
Grand Scrutiniser?”
“Correct.”
“Then let’s see who’s at the door.”
The door will burst open seconds later, giving only a
splitsecond reaction for the party to attempt to flee. If the
party is still present when revealed,
Lady Arthoria does not ask questions and attacks. The
Grand Scrutiniser (Biblius Tome) is right behind her,
he is less sure what is happening but trusts in Arthoria’s
decision. If combat occurs in the hallway, the noise will
bring 1d4 priests from the adjoining Hall of the Goddess.
Inside the Grand Scrutiniser’s study, there are his
white robes of office and his ornate golden mask. A
character could impersonate the Grand Scrutiniser with
a successful DC 16 Charisma (Deception) check to enter
the Ritual Chamber via the Hall of the Goddess. The party
may also find a secret passage to the Library with a DC
16 Wisdom (Perception) check. It is opened by applying
pressure to the bookshelf door.
If the party flees they would fail in their mission, which
has already proved far more dangerous than anticipated.
racter that has dealt the most damage. If either is reduced
to 30 hit points or less, they will try to flee, activating the
alarm as they do.
Once the party has destroyed the statue, they must
try and flee. Other than the corridor or the Hall of the
Goddess, there is a secret door that can be found with a
DC 16 Wisdom (Perception) check and slight pressure
causes it to pop open.
Escaping the Sons
If the alarm is raised: The Sons of Knowledge are not
warriors, once weapons are drawn most of them attempt
to flee. Unless they are already unconscious, the Biblius
Tome and Arthoria Hardback are likely to be the only
people who try and physically stop the party from leaving.

Ritual Chamber Either way, the party can exit via the Secret Entrance
of the Library or the entrance from the bar, although the
The Ritual Chamber can be accessed via the main door guardian (Rock Golem) makes no effort to stop people
in the Hall of the Goddess, or from the corridor outside from leaving.
the Grand Scrutiniser’s study. The entire chamber is
under the effect of a zone of truth spell.
Three gelatinous cubes (SRD 337) have been released
in the ritual chamber in order to clean up any dirt or dust.
When the ritual is ready, they have been trained to retreat
from the bell the Grand Scrutiniser keeps in the an- Rockskin Golem
techamber behind a secret door. They will attack anyone Large construct, neutral evil
entering the room unless the bell is rung first.
Armor Class (Natural armor: 15 in moving form,
A tall silver statue shines dimly with divine light. It 20 in defensive stance)
looks to weigh several hundred pounds and is over six Hit Points 58(9d10 + 18)
feet tall. If this is the relic belonging to the Brotherhood of Speed 15 ft.
Light, it’s not moving anywhere quickly.
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
In the centre of the room is a seven-foot statue of a
deva, made from magical silver. This is the artefact the 18 (+4) 10 (+0) 15 (+2) 8 (-1) 10 (+0) 9 (-1)
Brotherhood of Light wants to identify. It can be destroyed
by attacks from magical weapons or spells. It has an AC of Immunities Acid, Cold, Fire, Poison
19, 95 hit points and the following ability: Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 9
Languages Understands the languages of its creator
Sword of Truth. Once its command phrase has been but can’t speak
uttered, each creature within 30 ft. of the Challenge 2 (450 XP)
statue, with an Intelligence score greater
than 8, must speak a truth each turn or take Magic Resistance. The golem has the advantage
1d4 psychic damage as a resonating voice of saving throws against spells and other magical
declaring “The liar shall be punished!”. effects.
Defensive Stance. The golem can turn himself as
Unbeknownst to the party, and even an immovable object that blocks doors or passages.
most of the Sons of Knowledge, the statue While in this stance, the golem cannot move or use
is watched over by two representatives of any action.
the Brotherhood of Light, Gavin the Glo-
rious and Senara Valard (end of chapter). Actions
When the party enters, Senara Valard Ground Stomp. Any creature within 5 ft. of the golem
whispers a command phrase for the statue, must make a DC 14 Dexterity saving throw suffering
activating the “Sword of Truth” ability. Se- 10 (3d6) bludgeoning damage on a failed throw, or
nara and Gavin allow the gelatinous cubes half on a successful one.
to deal with them, before attacking the cha-

156
Conclusion
The High Warlock is pleased the relic has been
destroyed but even a clean getaway has people asking
questions in town. Attention is growing. If Arthoria was
killed, she will be resuscitated, alerting King Boric to turn
his attention to Hatbury as Arthoria begins seeking out
the party.

“Once again, we have another victory under our belt,”

declares the High Warlock with pride.
“Thank you, sir,” beams a short man who taps the cab-
bage-shaped rosette pinned to his hooded cloak. The High
Warlock’s head tilts toward him.
“Er…yes, one of many victories to be sure. I was
thinking particularly of the victory that entailed the thwar-
ting of our enemies.”
“Yes, the Royal Cabbage Society thinks they know
everything there is to know about growing things but we
showed them a thing or three. it’s such a pretentious club-
” terrain is considered difficult for the remaining attackers,
“WILL YOU SHUT UP ABOUT THE CABBAGES!”
snarls the High Warlock, “DESTROYING THE RELIC
WITHOUT GETTING CAUGHT IS MORE IMPOR-
TANT, AND CERTAINLY MORE DASTARDLY THAN
LETTUCES DISGUISED AS CABBAGE.”
“It was actually cauliflower-”
“ENOUGH,” the High Warlock
turns his eye on you, “You did
escape detection, didn’t you?”
The party will advance to
6th level.
Defend The
Base!
At the end of this chap-
ter, the party’s secret
lair is discovered by the
Grand Scrutiniser who
has recovered from his
embarrassment in the
Vaults. Fueled by his
determination to find the
culprits who ruined the
Princess’ dress and ruined
his statue, he has used his
magic to locate the Endarke-
ned Brotherhood’s hideout.
As soon as the party leaves
their base, Biblius and his
followers launch a surprise attack on the Endarkened
Brotherhood’s secret lair. The party must defend their
base and protect their treasures from this powerful foe
and his f ollowers.
Objective
During this special tactical combat you must incapacitate
or defeat the Grand Scrutiniser, Biblius Tome and his
ally, Arthoria Hardback, before they can reach the core of
the dungeon and spend a full turn there.
The remaining attackers that joined them will withdraw
and attempt to flee the scene with Biblius’s body if he and
Arthoria are defeated. Since they are carrying Biblius, all
slowing their flight from the base. The party shouldn’t let
anybody escape.
Assault team
Scout: Lady Arthoria Hardback
Area Spellcaster: Biblius Tome (advanced)
Support: Senara Valard
Tank: Gavin
The attacker CR is 9 the defending team is CR12.5
(10 for defenders and 2.5 for traps and artefacts).
DM shall adjust if needed.
Tips: This battle is hard, at any point you can make the
party roll a DC 14 Charisma (Insight) roll, discovering
that Biblius and Arthoria are the leaders and that the
other attacking characters look to them for instructions.
They will get demotivated if left alone to handle the base
assault.
After the combat
The High Warlock has performed a powerful ritual,
thanks to a piece of magic from the Sons of Knowledge.
It shields the cult’s secrets from prying eyes and ears. As
a result, all members of the cult are now immune to the
following spells: Clairvoyance, Detect Thoughts and Zone
of Truth.
If the players fail in their defense: the High Warlock of
the Endarkened Brotherhood will be deeply disappointed
in their inability to protect the organization’s resources.
The party will be forced to find a new base of operations,
and will have to do so without any aid or support from the
Brotherhood.

157
If the players are successful in their defense: Pleased
Biblius Tome
with their efforts the High Warlock will reward them by
Medium humanoid (Psionic), lawful good (Cleric of
retrieving a valuable magic item and one lair artefact from
fire)
Biblius’s body. Biblius had a hidden pocket in his body
where he stored items for later study. The High Warlock
Armor Class 13 (Leather Armor)
will be happy to give one to the players and add the other
Hit Points 49 (9d8 + 9)
ones to the Endarkened Brotherhood’s treasure vaults.
Speed 30 ft.

Tips: The DM may choose one magic item to reward STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
the your players according to the need of their character 12 (+1) 14 (+2) 12 (+1) 10 (+0) 20 (+5) 12 (+1)
(page 33).
33
Saving Throws WIS +6, CHA +4
Skills Arcana +3, Religion +3
Damage Resistances Psychic
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 13
Languages Common
Lady Arthoria Hardback
Challenge 3, 700 XP
Medium Humanoid (Human) , Lawful Good (Archer)
Shroud of Flame. When a creature within 5 feet of
Armor Class 16 (Chainmail Armor)
Biblius hits him with a melee attack. The attacking
Hit Points 38 (7d8 +7)
creature takes 1d8 fire damage.
Speed 30 ft.
Spellcasting. Biblius is a 7th-level spellcaster. His
spellcasting ability is Wisdom (spell save DC 16, +8
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA to hit with spell attacks). He has the following spells
14 (+2) 16 (+3) 12 (+1) 16 (+3) 8 (-1) 10 (+0) prepared:
Cantrips (at will): Light, Sacred flame
Saving Throws STR +5, CON +4 1st level (4 slots): Burning Hands, Faerie Fire, Cure
Skills Athletics +7, Intimidation +7 Wounds
Senses Passive Perception 12 2nd level (3 slots): Moonbeam
Languages Common 3rd level (2 slots): Spirit Guardians
Challenge 2, 450 XP 4th level (1 slot): Guardian of Faith

Attack Surge (1/day). When Lady Arthoria attacks in Actions

combat, she can make one additional action.
Actions
Multiattack. Arthoria makes two attacks, only one
can be a charming arrow.
Longbow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, ranged
150/600 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d8 + 3) piercing da-
mage.
Charming Arrow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +6 to hit,
ranged 150/600 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d8 + 3) pier-
cing damage and 5 (2d4) psychic damage. The target
must succeed on a 13 Wisdom saving throw, or it is
charmed by Arthoria until the start of her next turn.
Shortsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5
ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d6 + 3) slashing damage.
Mace. Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5ft., one
target. Hit: 6 (1d8 + 2) plus 4 (1d8) fire damage.
Turn Undead (2/day). As an action, each undead
within 30 feet of Biblius that can see or hear him
must make a DC 16 Wisdom saving throw or become
turned for 1 minute or until it takes any damage.
A turned creature must spend its turns trying to move
as far away from Biblius as it can, and it can’t willingly
move to a space within 30 feet of him. It also can’t
take reactions. For its action, it can use only the Dash
action or try to escape from an effect that prevents it
from moving. If there’s nowhere to move, the creature
can use the Dodge action. A creature controlled by a
player cannot be turned.

158
Gavin Senara Valard
Medium Humanoid (Dwarf), Lawful Good (Paladin) Medium celestial, lawful good (Sorcerer)

Armor Class 17 (Half plate + Shield) Armor Class 12 (no armor)

Hit Points 49 Hit Points 33 ( 6d8 + 8)
Speed 25 ft. Speed 30 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
15 (+2) 10 (+0) 16 (+3) 8 (-1) 8 (-1) 18 (+4) 8 (-1) 15 (+2) 12 (+1) 10 (+0) 11 (+0) 18 (+4)

Saving Throws WIS +1, CHA +6 Saving Throws CON +4, INT +3, WIS +3, CHA +7
Skills Athletics +4, Persuasion +6 Skills Arcana +2, Religion +2
Damage Resistances Poison Damage Resistances Necrotic, Radiant
Senses Passive Perception 9 Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 10
Languages Common, Dwarvish Languages Common, Celestial
Challenge 2, 450 XP Challenge 2, 450 XP

Divine Smite (2/day). When Gavin deals damage to
an enemy, he deals an additional 2d8 radiant damage.
Inspiring Strike. Once per round, when Gavin deals
damage to an enemy, they can distribute temporary
hit points equal to the damage dealt to any creatures
they can see within 30 ft, including themself. The
temporary hit points cannot exceed 10.
Actions
Multiattack. Gavin can make two melee attacks.
Longsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5
ft., one target. Hit: 6 (1d8 + 2) slashing damage.
Empowered Healing. When Senara rolls for a hea-
ling spell, if the result of a die is 1, she may reroll the
die but must use the new result.
Spellcasting. Senara is a 5th-level spellcaster. Her
spellcasting ability is Charisma (spell save DC 14,
+6 to hit with spell attacks). She has the following
spells prepared:
Cantrips (at will): light, sacred flame
1st level (4 slots): cure wounds, guiding bolt
2nd level (3 slots): lesser restoration, hold per
son
3rd level (2 slots): dispel magic, haste

Action
Fire Quarterstaff. Melee Weapon Attack: +1 to hit,
reach 5ft., one target. Hit: 3 (1d6 - 1) bludgeoning
and 5 (1d10) fire damage.

159
 Chapter 4 Take Control of a District
Time to Expand our Power
“Come in. Have a seat,” directing you to a group of
chairs in front of his desk, the High Warlock looks from
face to face and drums his fingers on the desk.
“I wanted to invite you here, away from the usual foo-
lishness of our meetings.” he takes out a pair of red balls
which he begins juggling absent-mindedly, “My hope was
that we might have a serious discussion about your future
in my organisation, one where you can see my face and I
can see yours.”
The High Warlock, or “Punchy” according to the
sign on the door, is a tall thin man with watery eyes and
pinched lips. He looks much like the rest of the people in
the building, with chalk white skin and a large red nose.
“Our organisation is a growing concern. We need to
expand, and you have shown yourselves to be resource-
ful, if not always discreet. This time, I want you to make
some waves.” He leans back, putting his huge shoes on
the desk. “I’m juggling a lot of balls here and I want you to
take responsibility for our next acquisition.”
“I have identified several areas where we might be
able to get ourselves a piece of the pie, so to speak. It’s
included in these dossiers, don’t mind the covers.” He
gestures to a pile of books with brightly coloured covers
featuring the words ‘Jests and Japes’.
“Examine them thoroughly and make your decision. It’s
time this kingdom learned we are no joke.”
The High Warlock has given the party a dossier on
three of Muln’s districts that he believes are ripe for a
takeover. The party can investigate each of the districts
and determine which they want to attempt to seize.
The Docks
The docks are where Muln takes in the lumber and ore from
upriver and exports wares and food downriver to Muln.
Strength: All information passes through the docks
and sailors will gladly talk to anyone willing to buy them
a round.
Challenge: Anything that goes wrong in the Docks
quickly becomes known to nearby towns such as Manch
and Muln as sailors spill their stories.
Current Management: The Wharfers, a cutthroat gang
of informants and enforcers.
160
The Stalls
Representing the merchant quarter, the Stalls feature the
majority of Muln’s shops and markets.
Strength: Muln’s wealth flows through the Stalls, and
a certain percentage of that wealth finds its way into the
pockets of whoever maintains the stalls and protects its
merchants.
Challenge: Keeping the district happy requires a lot of
man-hours.
Current Management: The Golden Geese, a collection
of wealthy “facilitators” who aren’t afraid to spill a little
blood in order to keep the gold flowing.
The Gutters
The Gutters are first and foremost a residential district,
filled with low cost housing and cheap bars.
Strength: A steady source of labour is present in the
Gutters, people are always looking for work and many
aren’t too bothered about what it is.
Challenge: Many of the people living in the Gutters are
desperate, resulting in an unruly populace that is hard to
control.
Current Management: The Seamstress’s Guild, a col-
lective of women who know how to manage the district’s
tempestuous moods and channel its energy in the right
direction.
The Docks
The Muln Docks are heaving with activity. At any point
one can see scores of workers transferring goods between
ships and warehouses, barges travelling downriver from
the mines and lumber mills, and small ships packed
with produce and wares to sell departing downstream to
Muln. The Docks employ more workers than just about
anywhere else in town; it is a well-known fact that all
workers and businesses fall under the purview of the Doc-
kers Union, the Wharfers. The city council is powerless
to stand up to them and so they stand unchecked, taking
their tithe from each passing ship and their fees from
the Dockers. For the most part, things work, but they’ve
grown complacent, and their blatant corruption and
increasing greed has not gone unnoticed by the workers
they claim to serve.
The High Warlock has devised a plan, seemingly from
inside knowledge that will help the Cult wrest control of
the Docks from the Wharfers and turn it into an asset of
their own:
1. Bribe the Customs Officer. They keep records of
all the vessels that pass through the docks. Access
to this information gives the party a finger on the
pulse of all boat trade in or out of Muln.
2. Be seen to be collecting the ‘import tax’ from inco-
ming vessels.
3. Demonstrate accountability. This can be proved by
ensuring a ship leaves on time, with correct cargo,
and carrying the word that the Docks are under
new management.
Bribe the Official
Giza Daush thought she was being handed a presti-
gious role when she was offered the role of Customs Offi-
cer by the Muln Council. However, she quickly discovered
that if she wanted anything, from signatures to cargo
inspections, she had to go through the Union. Rather
than continue to rail at the hand she’d been dealt, she has
begrudgingly put aside her aspirations to accept the wage
she’d been offered. She spends her days relaxing in her
office and practicing various hobbies picked up over the
past few years in order to pass the time.
As the party arrives, Giza is found sprawled in her
chair, feet up on the desk, examining her latest creation:
a wooden carving of a fish holding a fishing rod. Unfazed,
she glances up towards the door when the party arrives,
but otherwise doesn’t move.
“Hello. For all official business no walk-in requests are
accepted, an information gathering appointment must
be made. Please submit your request in writing and our
office will respond within two business days along with
your assigned appointment slot...”
If the party explains they want to take over the docks,
Giza maintains her blasé exterior, but a 13+ Passive
Insight reveals her interest has been piqued and
is listening intently to what the party have to
say.
“You want to take on the Wharfers?
Hope you’re ready for open ‘Wharfare’,
they won’t take that lying down. So what
do you want from me?”
In order to collect shipping records and
information on the expected import pro-
cesses, the party can:
Bribe Giza with 100 gp and a DC 15
Charisma (Persuasion) check.
Appeal to Giza’s dislike of the Wharfers
with a DC 16 Charisma (Persuasion) check.
Coerce Giza with a DC 16 Charisma (Intimidation)
check.
161
In all cases, offering Giza an actual role in management
of the Docks gives the party advantage on these checks.
Once they have the shipping records they can proceed to
part two of the plan.
Board a Barge
In order to establish expectations, the party must be
seen taking on the role of dock management. The easiest
method is by boarding an incoming vessel and handling
the bribery (import tax) collection per the processes
learned from Giza. However, the Wharfers have their own
representative ready to do the same. Skinny Deep, a sea
hag (SRD 320) appearing human, is already waiting on
the docks when the party arrives and can be recognised
by his prominently displayed union pin.
You approach the water’s edge as a barge heads towar-
ds the moorings. You spy a man standing nearby, stinking
of salt water, hair slicked back as if he’s just been for a
swim. You see the large union pin stuck to his lapel and
realise he’s here for the same reason you are.
There are several ways the party might deal with Skinny
Deep, bearing in mind his loyalty to the Wharfers:
If they try to convince him to leave, he will argue, requi-
ring a DC 16 Charisma (Persuasion or Intimidation) check
to make him back down. If they cannot convince him, he
will try to push past and onto the barge.
The party may also try to rough him up or even attempt
to kill him. If the going gets tough during combat, Skin-
ny Deep will throw himself into the water as a means to
escape.
Regardless of the methods chosen, if Skinny Deep has
been rebuffed or escaped, he immediately heads to report
the party’s presence to the Wharfers.
If the party has successfully boarded the boat, they
must collect the import tax from the wary Bar-
gemaster and convince them of their authority
through guile or intimidation. From the details
Giza provided, barges pay a 10% import tax
upon their goods. So an average barge with
500 gp of goods would thus pay 50 gp in
tax.
If the party presents themselves as
members of the Wharfers, make a DC
16 Charisma (Deception) check, gaining
advantage if they acquired Skinny’s union
pin.
Alternatively, they may try to openly claim
to be the new management, requiring a DC 16
Charisma (Persuasion or Intimidation) check to
convince the captain.
If they fail by five or more he orders them off his boat. If
they succeed, the Bargemaster agrees and provides them
with the low sum of 35 gp.
The party can make a DC 14 Intelligence (History)
check using the records to recall that this barge was
meant to be carrying 500 gp of goods, and requires pay-
ment of 50 gp, or
They can choose to investigate, making a DC 16 In-
telligence (Investigation) check to deduce that the cargo
manifest has been altered and is worth 600 gp. Thus the
Bargemaster actually owes them 60 gp.
When called on the mistake, the Bargemaster will capi-
tulate allowing the players to collect the tax. The party
is another step closer to controlling the docks, although
they have likely aroused the suspicion of the Wharfers!
Arrival of the HM Boaric
Records show a ship called the HM Boric is
due to arrive on the morning tide and must
depart by the evening with all cargo. This
is the perfect chance to showcase your
control and send word downriver that
the Muln Docks are under new manage-
ment.
While the HM Boric safely makes it into
port, the party must oversee its time in
Muln by correctly managing dock workers,
ship crew and merchants to get the cargo loaded
on time. During that time, a number of complications
arise that the party must overcome to stay on track. Roll
on the table below three times.
Dock Complications table
D6 Complication
1 Several dockers never showed up today, the party
needs to make a DC 14 Strength (Athletics) group
check to help load cargo. If the check is a failure,
roll on this table and additional time.
2 An argument breaks out over the price of cargo
between the captain and a merchant. The party
can attempt to resolve the difference with a DC 15
Charisma (Persuasion) check, or pay 50 gp to make
up the difference.
3 The dockers are uneasy that the Wharfers are no
longer running the show. A DC 14 Charisma (Per-
suasion or Intimidation) check is required to get
them back to work. If the check is a failure, roll on
this table and additional time.
162
4 A crate smashes, sending three small chests (psy-
chic mimics) tumbling onto the dock.
5 Two men, (apprentive assassins), seem to be
keeping tabs on the progress of the HM Boric
unloading. If confronted they try to flee and a DC 16
Charisma (Intimidation) check reveals they work
for the Brotherhood of Light.
6 A band of Wharfer ruffians (two cave hobgoblin,
two brutal bugbear and an orc battlecrier) show up
and beeline for the HM Boric to cause chaos. They
will start roughing up dockers and the party must
intervene.
As the HM Boric readies to leave, the Captain ap-
proaches, sticking out his hand.
“It’s been a pleasure. Honestly, this is the quickest
turnaround we’ve had in years, with minimal delays and
no disasters. I’ll pass on the word, Muln is under new ma-
nagement. I’m just waiting on a few passengers and then
we’ll be off. Farewell!”
The party has managed to secure the docks, and more
importantly, the favour of many of those who work there.
The coffers of the Cult will swell and the High Warlock
releases an advance fund of 1000 gp to the party. The
party is also awarded the title “Dockmaster” which can be
assigned to a single player by the DM, group choice (like
an MVP), or could be granted to the entire party at DM
discretion. This title confers advantage on Investigation
or History checks to discover or recall information via
rumours.
A few days after they take control of the Docks, Giza
Daush sends word that several items of contraband have
been seized and gifts the party a Sword of Resentment, a
Coil of the Immemorial and a Draining Axe (pages 34, 37
& 36).
Cave Hobgoblin
Medium goblinoid, neutral evil
Brutal Bugbear
Medium goblinoid, chaotic evil
Armor Class 11
Armor Class 13 (Hide)
Hit Points 19 (3d8 +64)
Hit Points 27 (5d8 + 5)
Speed 30 ft.
Speed 30 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
14 (+2) 12 (+1) 15 (+2) 9 (-1) 8 (-1) 6 (-2)
15 (+2) 12 (+1) 16 (+3) 8 (-1) 11 (+0) 9 (-1)
Skills Athletics +5, Perception +2, Stealth +4
Skills Stealth + 6, Survival +2
Condition Immunities Blinded
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 10
Senses Blindsight 30 ft. (blind beyond this radius),
Languages Common, Goblin
Passive Perception 12
Challenge 1 (200 XP)
Languages Goblin, Undercommon
Challenge ½, 100 XP
Vicious. Whenever the bugbear hits a prone creature
it inflicts an extra 7(2d6) piercing damage.
Blind Senses. The hobgoblin can’t use its blindsight
while deafened and unable to smell.
Actions
Morningstar. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach
Actions
5 ft., one target. Hit: 11 (2d8 + 2) piercing and 7 (2d6)
Flame Club. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5
poison damage.
ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) piercing damage and 7
(2d6) fire damage.
Shortbow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, range
80/320 ft., one target. Hit: 4 (1d6 + 1) piercing damage
and 3 (1d6) poison damage.

163
Orc Battlecrier The Stalls
Medium goblinoid, chaotic evil
The Stalls features a collection of markets and stores
Armor Class 16 (Chainmail) that is second only to the city of Muln. It is said that
Hit Points 30(4d8 + 12) anything that can be bought or sold can be found in the
Speed 30 ft. Stalls, and if you look in the right places, even the things
that can’t. As the economic hub of Muln, making and
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA sharing wealth should have easily furnished Muln and its
citizens with the tax revenue to become a wealthy town
16 (+3) 12 (+1) 16 (+3) 11(+0) 11 (+0) 16 (+3) and eliminate the poverty that pervades lesser districts,
like the Gutters. Instead, the wealth has been hoarded by
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 10 merchants and wealthy citizens thanks to the schemes of
Languages Common, Goblin, Orc the Golden Geese. Ostensibly a collective of merchants
Challenge 2, 450 XP and accountants, the Golden Geese in actuality function
more akin to a private bank. Laundering and loopholes
Assault. One living creature the battlecrier can see makes sure minimal taxes from the Stalls are paid to
within 10 ft. can use its reaction to move 10 ft. and Muln, leaving the majority of funds to flow back into the
make a melee attack pockets of investors and line their own coffers.

Actions This has created no small amount of strife with the poo-
Greataxe. Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., rer citizens and those employed in the Stalls who, while
one target. Hit: 8 (1d10 + 3) slashing damage and 7 highly taxed, see little from the proceeds of their work.
(2d6) poison damage. This is where the High Warlock’s plan can take advan-
tage of the situation:
1. Firstly, you must make an example of Rob Onywan,
one of the most exploitative merchants in the
Stalls. Extort him and show his workers the vast
Psychic Mimic
wealth being kept from them.
Medium monstrosity, chaotic neutral
2. Secondly, hit the Golden Geese’s coffers and
Armor Class 12 (Natural Armor) dispose of their gold, eroding faith in their ability to
Hit Points 27 (7d8) protect the wealth of the Stalls.
Speed 20 ft. 3. Finally, you must be seen to invest the funds back
into the Stalls to raise support throughout the
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA district. Giving charity to the poorer workers and
investing in the fortunes of non-Golden Geese mer-
17 (+3) 10 (+0) 10 (+0) 14 (+2) 14 (+2) 10 (+0)
chants are two such methods.
Condition Immunities Prone
Senses Passive Perception 12
Robbing Rob
Languages Common, Telepathy 60 ft.
Rob Onywan is the owner of Onywan Cans, a food pro-
Challenge 1, 200 XP
cessing business. It is notable for taking on impoverished
workers from the Gutters and offering them a wage. The
Shapechanger. The mimic can use its action to poly-
workers are paid barely enough to live on, while Rob re-la-
morph into an object or back into its true, amorphous
bels the jars of food they produce and sells them at luxury
form. Its statistics are the same in each form. Any
prices. When visiting his factory, he dresses in cheap
equipment it is wearing or carrying isn’t transformed.
clothes and pretends he himself is just above the poverty
It reverts to its true form if it dies.
line. It’s time his workers saw who he really is.
Grappler. The mimic has advantage on attack rolls
against any creature grappled by it.
The party can watch the factory, awaiting one of Rob’s
visits, then enter after him as the workers are too busy to
Actions
stop the party.
Pseudopod. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach
5 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d8 + 3) bludgeoning damage
You see a carriage pull stop around the corner from the
and the target is grappled (escape DC 14).
factory and a footman helps a tall, thin man down from
Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
the step. The man peels off his fur coat to reveal a thin
target. Hit: 7 (1d8 + 3) piercing damage plus 4 (1d8)
grey shirt and he puts on a dirty apron. He then walks
psychic damage
around the corner and enters Onywan Cans. The footman

164
takes a seat back on the carriage and waits.
The party can expose Rob by accusing him while in the
middle of his factory, as this will be where the majority of
his workers are. The true difficulty is in convincing him
to reveal it here as many of the workers believe in the lie
that he has sold them. Once Rob has been exposed, the
workers will rise into an angry mob. Rob’s days in the
Stalls are done and word will spread.
Threatening him with a DC 18 Charisma (Intimidation)
check will cause him to stumble up, backtracking on his
words. If the check fails by 5 or more, the workers refuse
to believe the story since it was given under duress. If the
check fails by less than 5, the party must make an additio-
nal DC 14 Charisma (Persuasion) check to convince the
workers.
Rob can also be exposed by picking his pocket, with
a DC 15 Dexterity (Sleight of Hand) check. Pouring the
contents of his coin pouch onto a table reveals thirty gold
165
coins, more than any of the workers have seen in their
life.
Finally, breaking into Rob’s office with a DC 14 Dex-
terity(Thieves Tools) or DC 15 Strength(Athletics) check
will reveal a stack of labels on his desk. They read “Finest
Canned Meat, imported from Muln for over 100 years.”
Get the Gold
The Golden Geese headquarters are located in
the prestigious Gilded Nest Bar. Only those with
memberships are allowed into the bar, but that includes
most merchants in the Stalls. From the outside, the
Gilded Nest Bar appears inconspicuous, but the queue
of wealthy merchants waiting outside denotes its pres-
tige. Even as you watch, a man hands over his gold
membership badge to a burly looking bouncer at the door.
Only after thorough inspection the bouncer allows him to
enter with his companions.
 If the party attempts to queue for entry, the two ogre
(SRD 336) and hobgoblin (SRD 322) guards at the front
door will allow no one past without a membership badge.
With little prodding, the guards explain that like the name
of the bar implies, if their hands are gilded to the tune of
500 gp they will happily let them pass without a ‘for-
gotten’ badge.
This amount could be collected from the party’s own
inventory or stolen in chunks from a few merchants just
outside the bar with a DC 16 Dexterity (Sleight of Hand)
checks. With a higher DC 18 Dexterity (Sleight of Hand)
check, a membership badge can be procured. Otherwise,
a merchant can be convinced to take the party in as his
guests with a DC 16 Charisma (Persuasion or Intimida-
tion) check.
The party may also attack the security directly, but
doing so puts everyone inside on high alert, doubling the
guards inside and scaring off any merchants still waiting
outside.
Inside, the bar is a den of excess. The wine flows like
water, high-stakes games of chance abound and scantily
clad young men and women wander from room to room
seeking companionship, for a price. Welldressed bugbear
security guards stand on the outskirts of the room and
near the back of the bar is a closed door guarded by a
solitary, but clearly armed, orc woman.
Inside the Gilded Nest Bar, there is a strongroom,
guarded at all times by the Golden Geese’ security team
of highly skilled individuals. When more muscle is nee-
ded, they simply hire mercenaries.
Any security guard can be distracted with a DC 15
Charisma (Deception or Performance) and should the
Orc guard be distracted, her key can be stolen with a DC
14 Dexterity (Sleight of Hand) check. If on high alert, the
Orc guard resists moving away from the door at the back,
instead motioning to another guard to see to any issues
unless there are no nearby guards available.
Entering the door takes a DC 16 Dexterity (Stealth)
group check and a character must make a DC 20 Stren-
gth (Athletics) check or DC 18 Dexterity (Thieves Tools)
check to open the door without the key.
If at any point, the party is spotted acting illicitly they
will be attacked by three guards (two brutal bugbears
and an orc battlecrier) who are present in the room. Add
an additional three Brutal Bugbears to this combat if the
bar is on high alert.
Past the door, the party will find themselves in a short
corridor leading to two doors, one metal and another
plain wood. The wooden door leads to an office and a DC
166
16 Intelligence (Investi-
gation) check reveals a
hidden chest containing
a Nine Lives Stealer
dagger and a key to the
strongroom door.
The strongroom door re-
quires a DC 18 Strength
(Athletics) or Dexterity
(Thieves Tools) check to
open without a key.
Inside the strongroom
is a treasury that resembles a dragon’s hoard more than it
does the coffers of a prominent organisation. It’s littered
with piles of gold and jewels, trinkets of all kinds and even
several pieces of art. Far more than you can feasibly carry,
but it never hurts to try. On the ceiling above, you note a
hatch that appears to lead onto the roof.
One of the leaders of the Golden Geese, Golden Carla,
is actually a Demon (Lust Fiend). This is her hoard, but
fortunately for the party, she has another method of ente-
ring and exiting. The hatch in the roof is barred from the
inside, but with a successful DC 15 Strength (Athletics)
check, the party can climb onto the roof.
The party can carry 1000 gp each, but if they are wil-
ling to spend an extra hour ferrying the rest of the trea-
sure onto the roof, they can alert locals to its presence
and watch the Golden Geese’s entire fortune vanish.
If the party chooses to spend an extra hour doing this,
there is a 25% chance (50% if the Golden Geese are on
high alert) that Golden Carla and her two henchmen
(disguised Juvenile Balor) appear and attack them, she
retreats if reduced to 15 hit points or less.
By damaging the Golden Geese’s finances, and more
importantly, reputation, control of the Stalls is now within
reach.
Patronise the Stalls
To cement the cult’s position, they must be seen by the
masses to prove positive change while also appealing to
the merchants by maintaining the status quo. This can
be achieved by undertaking the following skill challenge
which can be an opportunity for the players to craft a
cinematic takeover of the area:
This Skill Challenge requires 5 successes before 3 fails
are accrued.
Each player may use any skills they are proficient with,
but the same skill cannot be used more than once during
the challenge. At the DM’s discretion, expending spell
slots to cast appropriate spells can count as
a success.
 Players should get creative with their skills, but several Survival Locate and identify 18
possible skill options are laid out below. More unusual or Carla’s tracks to find out
unlikely uses will have a higher DC. her dark secret: she is in
The party will most likely succeed in winning the fact a fiend.
Stalls, but the benefits obtained from running it will suffer
if they fail to win broad support for their management.
Failures:
If the party ensured the Golden Geese’s entire hoard
was stolen, they begin with one success.
No failures: The party wins control of the Stalls and
receives 2000 gp in tributes from the Stalls, with more
Examples: to come. They also gain the title “Master of Coin”, which
grants the holder advantage on Charisma checks that
Skill Use(s) Recommended leverage their wealth or status.
DC One failure: The party takes control of the Stalls but
Arcana Find promising arcane 15 finds some opposition among the merchant class, they
research to invest in. receive 1500 gp in tributes as some of the merchants hide
their wealth.
Decep- Mingle with the wor- 14 Two failures: The party takes control of the Stalls with
tion kers, distributing gold heavy opposition by merchants merchants but also fails
and convincing them to win the working class so must divert funds to appease
you will better their lot them. They get 750 gp in tribute from the merchants.
in life. Three failures: The party fails to take control of the
Insight Work out which mer- 17 Stalls and it becomes clear that the party doesn’t have the
chants are least happy support necessary and might have better luck taking over
with the current situa- another district.
tion and buy their loyalty
with investment. The Stalls are now in the hands of the cult and several
Intimida- Come down hard on 15 investments deliver interesting results. For each failure
tion those who don’t imme- the part accrued, the party receives one fewer of the items
diately fall in line and below.
make an example of
them. A Sword of Resentment, a Coil of the Immemorial, a
Spicy Chicken Feather, a Ring of Shrieking (pages 34, 37,
Investiga- Find the most profitable 16
& 36).
tion businesses to invest
in, demonstrating your
attention to detail and
business acumen.
Percep- Spot those in direst 13
tion need and offer them
coin.
Perfor- Impress the have and 16
mance the have-nots with your
gravitas and generous
spirit.
Persua- Give a rousing speech to 15
sion convince people of your
vision for the Stalls.

167
Brutal Bugbear Lust Fiend
Medium goblinoid, chaotic evil Medium fiend, neutral evil

Armor Class 13 (Hide) Armor Class 15 (Natural Armor)

Hit Points 27 (5d8 + 5) Hit Points 44 (8d8 + 8)
Speed 30 ft. Speed 30 ft., fly 60 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
15 (+2) 12 (+1) 16 (+3) 8 (-1) 11 (+0) 9 (-1) 8 (-1) 17 (+3) 13 (+1) 15 (+2) 12 (+1) 20 (+5)

Skills Stealth + 6, Survival +2
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 10
Languages Common, Goblin
Challenge 1 (200 XP)
Vicious. Whenever the bugbear hits a prone creature
it inflicts an extra 7(2d6) piercing damage.
Skills Deception +9, Insight +5, Perception +5, Per-
suasion +9, Stealth +7
Damage Resistances Bludgeoning, Piercing and
Slashing from nonmagical weapons
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 15
Languages Common, Abyssal, Infernal
Challenge 2, 450 XP

Actions Actions
Morningstar. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach Charmed Claw. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit,
5 ft., one target. Hit: 11 (2d8 + 2) piercing and 7 (2d6) reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 6 (1d6 + 3) slashing
poison damage. damage. Target hit by this attack must succeed on
a DC 15 Wisdom saving throw or become charmed,
causing it to spend its reaction to attack an ally if they
can. Target may attempt this save again at the end of
Juvenile Balor its next turn.
Large fiend, chaotic evil Draining Kiss. The fiend targets a creature charmed
by it or a willing creature. The target must make a
Armor Class 16 (Natural Armor) DC 15 Constitution saving throw against this magic,
Hit Points 59 (7d10 + 21) taking 25 (3d10 + 5) psychic damage on a failed save,
Speed 30 ft., fly 40 ft. or half as much damage on a successful one.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA

18 (+4) 10 (+0) 17 (+3) 15 (+2) 11 (+0) 17 (+3)
Orc Battlecrier
Medium goblinoid, chaotic evil
Damage Resistances Fire, Poison, Cold, Lightning
Senses Blindsight 120 ft., Passive Perception 13
Armor Class 16 (Chainmail)
Languages Common, Infernal
Hit Points 30(4d8 + 12)
Challenge 3, 700 XP
Speed 30 ft.
Fire Aura. At the start of each of the balor’s turns,
or when a melee attack hits the balor, each creature STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
within 5 ft. takes 4 (1d8) fire damage. 16 (+3) 12 (+1) 16 (+3) 11(+0) 11 (+0) 16 (+3)

Actions Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 10

Multiattack. The balor makes two attacks: one with Languages Common, Goblin, Orc
its battleaxe and one with its whip. Challenge 2, 450 XP
Burning Battleaxe. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit,
reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 8 (1d8 + 4) slashing + 4 Assault. One living creature the battlecrier can see
(1d8) fire damage. within 10 ft. can use its reaction to move 10 ft. and
Fire Whip. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 15 make a melee attack
ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d6 + 4) slashing and 4 (1d8)
fire damage. Targets successfully hit by this attack Actions
must succeed on a DC 20 Strength saving throw or be Greataxe. Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
pulled up to 10 ft. toward the Balor. one target. Hit: 8 (1d10 + 3) slashing damage and 7
(2d6) poison damage.

168
The Gutters
The Gutters is the poorest neighbourhood in Muln,
with a well-earned reputation for criminal activity. Many
of the “Gutterlings’’ are unable to find fair compensating
work, resulting in a choice between starvation wages or
a life of crime. The wealthier denizens of Muln, including
the town council, either pretend not to see the Gutters or
see them as an opportunity to be exploited.
This abdication of responsibility results in the Gutters
operating almost as an independent fief within the town
with the Seamstresses Guild overseeing affairs here.
They know who is pulling which jobs and are sure to take
their cut. They settle feuds, find work for the desperate
and see that those foolish enough to be caught preying on
the Gutterlings pay a heavy price.
The High Warlock has been made aware of the despe-
ration in the Gutters and hopes to exploit it for the benefit
of the cult, but first, he has to get rid of the Seamstresses
Guild. An informant named Thin Ice, who runs the Dive
Tavern, has mentioned that a growing proportion of the
Gutterlings are unhappy with the Guild. They feel their lot
in life has grown worse, despite the Guild’s promises to
uplift the Gutters. The time is ripe for a takeover.
First, the party must sort out problems with housing
for a few families on the edge of the Gutters.
Then they must pay off several local taverns to start
spreading rumours about their deeds.
Finally they must be seen to resolve disputes between
residents. Once people start believing the cult is the
answer to their problems, the Guild is finished.
Growing Pains
A multitude of families are living on the streets and
Thin Ice thinks the party can help them by finding them
new accommodation or taking back their old house. The
Winer family is one such brood and the first to be intro-
duced.
You walk along a filthy street buzzing with people,
many trying to sell something, anything they can get away
with.
“Distressed skirts! Get your distressed skirts here!” a
woman calls.
“Salads! Two-for-one salads! Made with 100 percent
green stuff, it’s good for your immune system! Everything
in it, 100 percent green!”
You spy two children sitting at the mouth of an al-
leyway, wrapped in thin, tattered blankets. They stare at
you belligerently as you check you’re in the right place.
“Oi, you got any gold?” the younger of the two says,
“our dad left and now we ain’t got nothing in the world.
Not even a roof over our heads.”
169
The boy is Oliver Winer and his sister, Annie Winer
will try to convince the party to give them money before
answering any questions, but before they get too far,
their father Utt’er Winer interrupts, exiting the alleyway
blinking sleep from his eyes.
“Will you two stop telling folks I’ve run off! You know
fine well I spent all last night working in the Stalls.” He
sighs, “Hello folks, I apologise for my children, they forget
their manners. You’re not here to chase us off, are you?
We got nowhere else to go!
If the party explains they’re looking for the Winer fa-
mily, he smiles broadly.
“Ah yes! Ice told me he knew someone who could help,
I wasn’t sure I believed him. Can you really get us our
house back?”
If prompted, Utt’er Winer will explain the situation fur-
ther:
“Last week, we receives a letter saying our landlady
has passed and it was her wish that her home be vacated.
Next thing we know there’s someone in the attic, doors
are locked and some woman is screaming at us to get out
of her house. Now I know which way this goes when the
guards arrive. Been in that house since Oliver was born
and we’d be out on our ear before you can say ‘trespass’.
“I tried talking to the lady, to see if we could work so-
mething out but she wouldn’t even see me. The Guild aint
interested either! Something about forbidding or summat,
that’s what Ms. Silence Knight said. Can you help? Have
a word with the new landlady and see if we could come
back, even if just until we can find a new place?”
Utt’er is telling as much as he knows, but there is
more to be learned once the party investigates the home.
The landlady was Ms. Kinda Deed and she did die last
week. Unfortunately, she doesn’t seem to be aware of
this and has been haunting her childhood home ever
since, convinced she is a young woman again. She had
left in her will that the house be left to Ms. Knight and it
is she who sent the letter of eviction. Silence Knight was
a friend of Ms. Deed and as a vampire, she cannot enter
a house without invitation, so Ms. Deed willed her the
house. Unfortunately for Ms. Knight, supernatural limita-
tions do not depend on legal rights. Since the Winers had
called the house their home, it is still barred to her. She is
unaware of this as yet, thinking that Ms. Deed’s ghost is
what is keeping her out as the “owner” is still present.
The party may visit the house and try to talk to the new
landlady. When they discover the truth, they can try to
exorcise her or convince her to allow the Winers back.
The Deed House
The Deed house is about fifteen minutes’ walk from the
alleyway where the Winers have been staying. It is a tall,
narrow house that seems to loom over anyone the closer
they approach. “Its appalling architecture right enough,
my wife always expected it to come toppling forward one
day,” Utt’er says conversationally, as he points it out. He
provides his copy of the key to the house before thanking
the party again and leaving to rejoin his children.
The house is under surveillance by a swarm of bats
(SRD 389) across the street. A DC 14 Wisdom (Animal
Handling or Perception) check spots them and a DC 15
Intelligence (Investigation or Nature) check deduces they
are actually watching the house. If disturbed, or if the par-
ty enters the house, they fly away to warn Silence Knight.
Inside the house is dark and your breath mists the air.
There is a single room to the right that then leads to a
small kitchen and a narrow staircase heading upstairs.
The room on the ground floor is the Winer’s living
room, but there is also a large portrait of a younger Kinda
Deed and her parents on the wall above the empty fire-
place. The kitchen is in a bit of disarray as plates, cutlery
and some ripening food can still be found.
170
Upstairs there are two doors, one locked and one
leading to a bedroom with a single bed, two cots made
up on the floor and a jumble of clothes. It’s clear that the
room seems to have been abandoned in a hurry.
The only object of note is a letter lying on the small
bedside table:
“Dear Resident,
This is your notis to leev the house. Ms. Deed left this
house to somewun moar important.
Ms. Deed’s Executioner”
A DC 13 Intelligence (Investigation) check deduces
that the poor spelling and mixing up of executor and
executioner, suggests this letter was not written by a legal
professional. Something strange is at play here.
The locked door can be forced with a DC 15 Strength
(Athletics) check or picked with a DC 14 Dexterity (Thie-
ves Tools) check. Knocking the door gets the following
response:
“Get out! Get ooouuutt” shrieks a haunting, ethereal
voice.
Behind the doorway is a staircase leading up into the
attic of the Deed house.
 The attic of the Deed house is la-
vishly furnished, at least for the Gut-
ters, even if it is coated in a fine layer
of dust. There is a fireplace and stove
flanked by two well-stuffed armchairs
and along the wall a neatly made bed.
Springing up from one of the arm
chairs a white sheet glides towards
the centre of the room, hugging a form
invisible to the naked eye.
“What do you waaaaant! Trespassers!
Get ooooout!” shrieks a voice from within
the sheet, “Go awaaaay! I’m a ghost… Boo!”
Kinda believes she is a living woman scaring off
intruders by pretending to be a ghost. She is in fact a
ghost haunting her old home. If asked who she is, she will
exclaim:
“I am the lady of the house, thank you very much! This
house has been in my family for generations!” The sheet
will slip suddenly from her head and she coalesces, first
as a horrific corpse, then an old woman and finally as a
younger woman, who can be recognised as the woman
from the painting downstairs, if the party found it. She
will maintain her younger appearance for all future inte-
raction.
If prompted again she will finally give her full name as
Kinda Vera Deed.
Attacking Kinda Deed (spectral screamer) is a tempo-
rary solution. If the party kills her, she will reform by the
time the Winers arrive who will then run to find the party.
Convincing Kinda she is dead requires evidence she
cannot ignore. Telling her she is dead or incorporeal is
insufficient and pointing out the dust only gets a response
about needing to clean. The party must point out that the
house is not as she remembers it or ask her where her
parents are in order to make a DC 15 Charisma (Persua-
sion) check to convince her all is not right. This is the
minimum required to achieve a resolution. From there
they can convince her she is dead with a further DC 15
Intelligence (Arcana or Nature) check, make a DC 16
Charisma (Deception) check to trick her into another line
of thinking or even show her the note left to the Winers.
Resolving Her Unfinished Business
Kinda will not rest until she is sure her house is safe. Due
to her recent death, Kinda doesn’t remember signing over
her home to her friend Silence Knight, in actuality a vam-
pire who had been manipulating her for years. However
once she has accepted her death, this knowledge can be
drawn out by showing her the letter. Kinda enters a fury
and asks the party to help her get even with Silence or at
least to protect her house from her.
171
“I…remember. Silence befriended me…she kissed me…
no–bit me!…she USED ME! And now she wants my
HOUSE!”
Finding a Resolution for the Winers
Kinda can be convinced or tricked into letting the
Winers back in her house with a DC 15 Charisma (Per-
suasion or Deception) check. There are a number of ways
the party might do this, such as promoting the children as
new friends for Kinda, convincing Kinda that Utt’er would
make a good husband or by convincing her that as she is
dead she might benefit from the company, among others.
If the note has been shown to Kinda, she can be
convinced without a check as Silence will eventually
have to come to the house if she wants to get rid of the
Winers. Only then can Kinda get even. When the party
finally meets Silence in Part 2, they can bring news of her
demise to Kinda, allowing her to pass on.
Once the Winers are safely returned to Deed House,
they will thank the party and promise to spread word of
their kindness and effectiveness.
It Pays to Spread the Word
The largest grouping of Gutterlings are found at the
local taverns so spreading the word and boosting goodwill
there will be the fastest method. Thin Ice has provided
a listing of the most popular taverns and stresses that in
order to make a good impression, you must convince the
landlord to speak highly of you. He notes that keeping the
tavern patrons happy by buying them rounds will help
them be more amenable to any news or rumours you
want to spread, but it will take at least three of the bars to
make sure it sticks.
In each bar, the party must make a DC 16 Charisma
(Persuasion) check, but this is only possible if they spend
50 gp on a tab for the patrons. They only get one chance
in each bar and must succeed in at least three bars to
successfully spread the word.
Not all bars are the same however and complications
arise. In each bar, roll on the table below or choose a
complication.
Gutter Bars Complications
D6 Complication
1 A group of thugs (three henchmen) attempt to
rob the party.
2 The landlord is a relative of one of the
Seamstresses guildmembers and the DC in-
creases by 4.
3 The patrons get out of hand and a brawl breaks
out, the barman kicks the party out.
4 The patrons are non-drinkers, it is a dry bar and
they demand entertainment instead. The party
must succeed on a DC 15 Charisma (Perfor-
mace) check to woo the patrons enough to be
able to make the check to convince the landlord.
5 There is a robbery in progress which the party
interrupts and a fight breaks out between the
party and five robbers (apprentice assassins).
Stopping the robbers results in an automatic
success when convincing the barman.
6 Four hooded monks (young priests) leave imme-
diately when the party walks in. If questioned
they reveal they work for the Brotherhood of
Light and were told to report anything suspi-
cious in the Gutters.
Loot Dispute
Thin Ice sends word that two crews have gone after
the same target in the Gutters and are ready to come to
blows over the division of the loot. Rather than let their
feud spill out onto the streets, he’s taken the lead on the
party’s behalf and has invited the leaders to the backroom
of the Dive to resolve this amicably. But just because he’s
brought these angry horses to his watering hole doesn’t
mean they’ll drink and make amends. You must convince
the two leaders they can trust you to arbitrate and settle
the dispute between them in a manner acceptable to both
parties.
The Balle Street Jugglers and the Boosters of Short
Lane are both well-known gangs of thieves in the Gutters.
Neva Tumbles (apprentice assassin, accompanied by two
guards) leads the Jugglers, while Sonny Slips (henchman,
accompanied by two enlarged dark dwarfs) leads the
Boosters, both know each other well, but rarely see eye to
eye.
Thin Ice greets you when you arrive, his expression
grim.
“We just got word, the guards are out tonight. This lot
must have made enemies in high places. We need to sort
this mess out fast and get the loot moving before we have
boots at the door.”
172
He leads you through the back of the bar and through
a door to a hidden staircase that spirals to the cellar of
the Dive. The quiet cellar is furnished like a lounge, with
a set of well-made tables and chairs scattered throughout
the room. Sitting at the table in the middle of the room
is a man with a scarlet eye patch, flanked by two men
in black and white striped costumes, looking more like
circus performers than master thieves. Across from him
is a woman, also sporting an eye patch of dark leather,
and flanked by a man and woman in dark, loose clothing.
The quiet atmosphere sizzles with tension as both leaders
glare daggers at each other. Neva breaks the silence, but
not her gaze, as Thin and the party enter.
“You’re finally back. Can we proceed? We’ve got plans
for that loot.”
“What’s the rush, Neva? Times like these are meant to
enjoy wine and company. We so rarely meet and certainly
not on someone else’s coin!”
“This is business, Sonny. If it were pleasure, you and
your goons would not be present.”
“Charming—as always. You never could take pleasure
in the romance and thrill of life. ”
“And you reek of overindulgence in it. Let’s settle this.
I’ll be taking our fair share.”
“We never did see eye to eye,” Sonny winks—or blinks—
with a wry smile, before turning to you. “So pray tell…
why should we trust outsiders to arbitrate?”
The party can persuade Neva and Sonny to accept them
as arbiters with a DC 16 Charisma (Persuasion) check
but will have advantage if the DM judges their answer to
align with their values. The players can extract this infor-
mation from the dialogue above with a DC 14 Wisdom
(Insight) check.
Neva values straightforwardness, honesty and profes-
sionalism.
Sonny values cleverness, flair, and flattery.
Failing to convince either leader will not result in them
rejecting your arbitration, but will result in disadvantage
when trying to get them to agree to a settlement.
Neva’s Tale:
“We’ve been casing the Vectam, the old estate house
near the Docks, for weeks. We waited until the night
of their party and hit the second storey. We entered the
study via the window and come face to face with two of
Sonny’s Jugglers walking into the room, ready to raid the
chest we marked. They threaten to call out on us if we
don’t let them leave with the bulk of the bounty. They’re
lucky we didn’t leave them dead on the floor. But bodies
leave trails…”
 Sonny’s Tale: Spectral Screamer
“We saw that several performers and entertainers were Large fiend, chaotic evil
being invited to the big house by the docks and well, it
was too good an opportunity. We sidled into talks with the Armor Class 16 (Natural Armor)
owners and managed to glean our spot at the party. Half Hit Points 59 (7d10 + 21)
of us schmoozed the gentry and while they were happily Speed 30 ft., fly 40 ft.
unawares, several of my company slipped upstairs. That’s
when we find the Boosters trying to nab our score. It hap- STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
pens. But by rights, we got our hands on it first. We were 18 (+4) 10 (+0) 17 (+3) 15 (+2) 11 (+0) 17 (+3)
certainly in the building long before them so we ought to
have more of the loot.” Damage Resistances Acid, Fire, Lightning, Thunder;
Bludgeoning, Piercing and Slashing from nonmagical
The party may come to their own conclusion over who attacks
has the right of it, but currently, Sonny holds 75% of the Damage Immunities Cold, Necrotic, Poison
spoils, while Neva holds 25%. Condition Immunities Charmed, Exhausted, Frighte-
ned, Grappled, Paralyzed, Petrified, Poisoned, Prone
Neva will not accept anything less than 50% of the loot and Restrained
but aims for 60%. She wishes for an agreed settlement Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 10
to avoid mutiny among her gang, who will press her to Challenge 3, 700 XP
attack the Boosters if they aren’t adequately paid.
Ghost Step. While moving, the Spectral Screamer
Sonny will not accept anything less than 40%, but he phases from sight every 5 ft. as it appears and disap-
wishes it to be known his Jugglers pulled off the job and pears into the ethereal plane
thwarted Neva. He is worried that if they don’t settle,
Neva’s Boosters will take more drastic action. Actions
Corrupting Touch. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to
The specific resolution of this conflict is up to the players, hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 12 (3d6 + 2) necrotic
but satisfying both gangs and convincing them to agree damage.
to a deal requires a DC 14 Charisma (Persuasion) check. Scream (1/day). Target living creature within 20 ft.
If the party fails the check on either gang, they can try to must make a DC 13 Constitution saving throw, losing
force them with a DC 16 Charisma (Intimidation) check. half of its hit points on failure, or 7 (2d6) psychic
If this fails, the gang will pretend to agree, but will secret- damage on success
ly petition the Guild, causing problems for the party later
on.

Resolving, or being seen to resolve this dispute is the Guard

final stepping stone to establishing the party in a position Medium humanoid, any non-lawful alignment
of power in the Gutters.
Word of your exploits has reached many ears around Armor Class 15 (Studded Leather and Shield)
the Gutters. New petitioners get in touch with Thin Ice Hit Points 16 (3d8 + 3)
daily to request your assistance with their problems and Speed 30 ft.
make offerings of friendship, assistance and, occasionally,
buckets of green goop. Slowly the balance of power shifts STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
in your favor.
14 (+2) 14 (+2) 12 (+1) 10 (+0) 10 (+0) 10 (+0)
By taking control of the Gutters, the party receives
Senses Passive Perception 10
a small tribute from the various illicit activities of the
Languages Common
district, which results in the High Warlock giving them an
Challenge 3, 700 XP
advance of 500 gp. As tribute is mainly in the form of sto-
len goods and tools of their trade, the party also receives
the following items: a Sword of Resentment, a Coil of the Actions
Immemorial and a Cosmic Scepter Cap (pages 34 & 37). Multiattack. The guard makes two longsword attacks
The main benefit of the Gutters is its abundance of labour or two light crossbow attacks.
and swelling the cult’s ranks. However, if the party satis- Longsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5
fied Neva or Sonny, their crews become available for any ft., one target. Hit: 6 (1d8 + 2) slashing damage.
clandestine work required on the cult’s behalf. Light Crossbow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +4 to hit,
range 80/320 ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d8 + 1) piercing
damage.

173
Henchman Young Priest
Medium humanoid (any race), any lawful evil Medium humanoid (any race), any lawful alignment

Armor Class 16 (Chain Mail) Armor Class 15 (Chain Shirt and Shield)
Hit Points 22 (4d8 + 4) Hit Points 22 (4d8 + 4)
Speed 30 ft. Speed 30 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
14 (+2) 14 (+2) 12 (+1) 10 (+0) 10 (+0) 10 (+0) 10 (+0) 11 (+0) 12 (+1) 14 (+2) 14 (+2) 14 (+2)

Senses Passive Perception 10 Senses Passive Perception 12

Languages Common Languages Common
Challenge 1, 250 XP Challenge 1, 250 XP

Actions Spellcasting. The priest is a 2nd-level spellcaster. Its

Multiattack. The henchman makes two melee attacks spellcasting ability is Wisdom (spell save DC 13, +5
when attacking with its Longsword. to hit with spell attacks). The priest has the following
Longsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 cleric spells prepared:
ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d10 + 2) slashing damage. Cantrips (at will): sacred flame
Heavy Crossbow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, 1st level (3 slots): Heroism, guiding bolt, bless
range 100/400 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d10 + 2) pier-
cing damage.
Apprentice Assassin
Reactions Medium humanoid (any race), any non-lawful align-
Parry. The henchman adds +2 to its AC against one ment
melee attack that would hit it. To do so, it must see the
attacker and be wielding a melee weapon. Armor Class 14 (Leather armor)
Hit Points 18 (4d8)
Speed 40 ft.

Enlarged Dark Dwarf

Large humanoid, lawful evil STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
13 (+1) 16 (+3) 10 (+0) 8 (-1) 10 (+0) 10 (+0)
Armor Class 15 (Chain Shirt and Shield)
Hit Points 26 (4d10 + 4) Senses Passive Perception 10
Speed 25 ft. Languages Common
Challenge 1, 250 XP
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
Sneak Attack (1/Turn). Once per turn, the assassin
14 (+2) 11 (+0) 12 (+1) 11 (+0) 10 (+0) 9 (-1) deals an extra 10 (3d6) damage when it hits a target
with a weapon attack and has advantage on the attack
Damage Resistances Poison roll, or when the target is within 5 feet of an ally of
Senses Darkvision 120 ft., Passive Perception 10 the assassin that isn’t incapacitated and the assassin
Languages Common, Dwarf, Undercommon doesn’t have disadvantage on the attack roll.
Challenge ½, 100 XP
Actions
Dark Resilience. The dark dwarf has advantage on
Rapier. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
saving throws against poison and spells.
one target. Hit: 7 (1d8 + 3) slashing damage.

Actions
War Pick. Melee Weapon Attack: +3 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
one target. Hit: 11 (2d8 + 2) piercing damage.

174
See off Our Foes
In a bold stroke, the party has seized control of a new
domain. Unfortunately, the previous management has a
lot of something’s to say about that. Depending on which
district the party has seized, they face serious backlash
from the former owners.
Rough Tides at the Docks
A messenger comes running up to you panting and
stuttering out their information.
“Pirates have seized the Boric! They’ve turned it around
and are blockading the port!”
The Wharfers have seized the HM Boric to draw the
party into the open. Aboard the vessel is Skinny Deep
(cephaloid with 3 mind bolts), who has brought eight of
his enforcers (enslaved horn) to teach the party a lesson.
If the party killed Skinny Deep another sea hag Wharfer
will be in command.
When the party reaches the deck of the HM Boric:
“Ah, here are the upstarts. Think you can supplant us,
eh!?” says the thin man, gone is his gleaming union pin
but a set of sharp knives are stuffed in his belt glints just
the same.
“Aye, that’s why we’re here boss.” Mumbles one of the
burly dockhands behind him.
“Aye! Well, you can’t take what’s ours! These are our
docks and you can’t just come in here and cause chaos!”
“But it was smooth sailing, actually. They made sure
things ran on time and paid the appropriate fees…”
“Birly! Who’s side are you on, pal?” snaps Skinny Deep.
“Either way, tonight this lot will be sleeping with the di-
shes.” He glances around at his confused companions one
of whom pipes up:
“Because they’ll be in the galley?”
Tactics. Skinny Deep will try to control the battle by
stunning the party, while his enforcers rough them up.
Ultimately they will try to capture the party rather than
kill them. They want to make an example of them.
Recruit. If the party leaves the docks victorious, they’ll
find themselves walking beside a hunched old woman
who introduces herself as Durty Dorothy (lesser tyrant).
She joins your cult offering to help manage the docks and
pass on any rumours she overhears.
The Stalls are Not Open for Business
Word reaches you of merchants refusing to pay their
tribute and holding some sort of demonstration.
The Golden Geese’s representatives, Golden Carla (lust
fiend, disguised as a dwarf) and her bodyguards (dis-
guised juvenile balors), have convinced several merchants
to withhold their tribute until the party comes to investi-
gate. She wishes to demonstrate who can truly protect
175
the Stalls. In front of their audience, Carla tries to set the
party straight on who owns the Stalls.
“These are the street chaff that purport to do for you
all that the Golden Geese has? Impossible. These are but
knaves or my name is not Carliferous!”
“Carla! Carla! Carla!” chant a few of the merchants.
“The Golden Geese are as sweet as we are merciful. I
tell you now, leave the Stalls and do not return. You may
even keep your ill-gotten gains!”
“Ill-gotten gains! Ill-gotten gains!”
“Er…yes! We are merciful. Do not play a game you have
no understanding of. Fly now.”
“Fly! Fly! Fly!”
Tactics. If the party refuses to flee, Carla will take
them on with her bodyguards. They remain in their
human form until Carla is reduced to half her hit points,
but will not flee. While in human form, their powers will
appear as magic items and spells, and claws appearing as
daggers.
Reward. After Carla lies dead in the Stalls, a richly
dressed merchant will come forward.
“All hail the demon slayers! They have saved us from
the greed of the Golden Geese!”
His name is Gers Payd (lust fiend) and he willingly
joins the cult, offering to oversee the wealth coming in via
the Stalls.
Horrors In The Gutters
“Hurry hurry! They’ve nailed Thin Ice to the door of the
Dive!”
The Seamstress’s Guild doesn’t play. Having been
outmaneuvered, they’ve come to exact revenge and show
the Gutters who’s really in charge. Silence Knight (half
vampire), Taylor Scurry (revenant lord) and Senga
Song (aggressive Harpy) have murdered Thin Ice and
displayed him publicly as both warning and net to draw in
the party that stole their turf.
As you approach the Dive, you see Thin Ice hanging
upside down in a crude diving pose: his hands nailed
together and ankles tied to the sign above the door. In
reddish paint, a message is scrawled on the wall beside
him. “Looks like he cracked.”
The three members of the Guild sit calmly inside the
Dive and await the people that dared to face them. If
either Neva (Apprentice assassin) or Sonny (Hench-
man) were unconvinced by the party’s resolution, they are
present also to aid the Guild.
When the party arrives, a tall thin woman with deathly
white skin stands up, “Well now, Mrs. Scurry, look what
the rats dragged in.”
 “Watch it, Ms. Knight” squeaks a short, stout woman
with patchy grey hair. Cephaloid
“My apologies, slip of the tongue-” Medium aberration, neutral evil
“Maybe you should consider the…stakes.” giggles the
dark haired third woman whose eerie yellow eyes fixate Armor Class 13 (Natural Armor)
on you. Hit Points 36 (6d8 + 6)
The first woman rolls her eyes, “Indeed, Ms. Song. Let Speed 30ft.
me rephrase. Look who came for dinner.”
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
That is the extent of the preamble as the Seamstresses
11(+0) 12(+1) 12(+1) 18 (+4) 16(+3) 16(+3)
Guild isn’t looking to negotiate. Their bloodlust is
palpable and they wish to kill the party for their insolence.
Saves INT +7, WIS +6, CHA +6
Skills Arcana +6, Deception +5, Insight +5, Percep-
Tactics. Senga Song uses her Psychic Call (which her
tion +5, Persuasion +5, Stealth +4
companions have taken steps to block out) and stays at
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 12
the back of the room while Taylor Scurry attacks anyone
Languages Undercommon, Telepathy 120 ft.
trying to reach Senga. Silence Knight strikes out at the
Challenge 3, 700 XP
targets who resist Senga’s Song.
Magic Resistance. The cephaloid has advantage on
Reward. As the party finishes off the Guild, a rogueish
saving throws against spells and other magical effects.
man in simple, well-maintained clothes enters the dive.
“My apologies… I came as soon as I could. Call me
Chase. I am at your service.”
Actions
Claw. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
Chase Tayle (Lesser Lich) joins the cult, offering to
creature. Hit: 8 (2d6 + 1) slashing damage plus 10
keep things quiet in the Gutters by hunting down the
(3d6) psychic damage.
Guild’s associates and dealing with the day-to-day pro-
Mind Bolt (1/day). The cephaloid exhales a bolt in a
blems that arise.
20-foot line that is 5 ft. wide. Each creature in that line
must make a DC 14 Intelligence saving throw or take
14 (3d6 + 4) psychic damage and be stunned until the
end of their turn.
Henchman
Medium humanoid (any race), any lawful evil

Armor Class 16 (Chain Mail)

Hit Points 22 (4d8 + 4)
Speed 30 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA

14 (+2) 14 (+2) 12 (+1) 10 (+0) 10 (+0) 10 (+0)

Senses Passive Perception 10

Languages Common
Challenge 1, 250 XP

Actions
Multiattack. The henchman makes two melee attacks
when attacking with its Longsword.
Longsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5
ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d10 + 2) slashing damage.
Heavy Crossbow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +5 to hit,
range 100/400 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d10 + 2) pier-
cing damage.

Reactions
Parry. The henchman adds +2 to its AC against one
melee attack that would hit it. To do so, it must see the
attacker and be wielding a melee weapon.

176
Lesser Lich Juvenile Balor
Medium undead, chaotic evil Large fiend, chaotic evil

Armor Class 14 (Chain Shirt) Armor Class 16 (Natural Armor)

Hit Points 31 (7d8) Hit Points 59 (7d10 + 21)
Speed 30 ft. Speed 30 ft., fly 40 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
12 (+1) 11 (+0) 10 (+0) 12 (+1) 16 (+3) 18 (+4) 18 (+4) 10 (+0) 17 (+3) 15 (+2) 11 (+0) 17 (+3)

Damage Immunities Necrotic, Poison
Condition Immunities Exhausted, Frightened, Poi-
soned
Senses Darkvision 120 ft., Passive Perception 13
Languages Common
Challenge 2, 450 XP
Magic Resistance. The Lich has advantage on saving
throws against spells and other magical effects.
Superior Presence (3/day). All undead within 30 ft.,
may roll saves to resist turn undead with advantage.
Actions
Dark Morningstar. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit,
reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d8+1) piercing and 13
(3d8) necrotic damage.
Negative Aura (1/day). Each creature within 10ft.
must make a DC 14 Constitution saving throw or take
4d6 necrotic damage on failed save.
Damage Resistances Fire, Poison, Cold, Lightning
Senses Blindsight 120 ft., Passive Perception 13
Languages Common, Infernal
Challenge 3, 700 XP
Fire Aura. At the start of each of the balor’s turns,
or when a melee attack hits the balor, each creature
within 5 ft. takes 4 (1d8) fire damage.
Actions
Multiattack. The balor makes two attacks: one with
its battleaxe and one with its whip.
Burning Battleaxe. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit,
reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 8 (1d8 + 4) slashing + 4
(1d8) fire damage.
Fire Whip. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 15
ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d6 + 4) slashing and 4 (1d8)
fire damage. Targets successfully hit by this attack
must succeed on a DC 20 Strength saving throw or be
pulled up to 10 ft. toward the Balor.

Aggressive Harpy
Medium monstrosity, any chaotic alignment

Armor Class 11 (Natural Armor)

Hit Points 27 (7d8)
Speed 20 ft., fly 40 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA

12(+1) 13(+1) 10(+0) 7(-2) 10 (+0) 13(+1)

Senses Passive Perception 10

Languages Undercommon
Challenge 3, 700 XP

Actions
Claws. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
one target. Hit: 11 (3d6 + 1) slashing damage.
Psychic Call. Ranged Magic Attack: +5 to hit, range
40 ft., one target. Hit: 8 (2d6 + 1) psychic damage.
Target hit by this attack must then succeed on a DC
13 Charisma save or be forced to move 10 ft. towar-
ds the harpy.

177
Enslaved Horn Lesser Tyrant
Large monstrosity, chaotic evil Medium aberration, neutral evil

Armor Class 15 (Natural Armor) Armor Class 14 (Natural Armor)

Hit Points 38 (4d10 + 16) Hit Points 27 (5d8 + 5)
Speed 30 ft. Speed Fly 30 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
16 (+3) 10 (+0) 18 (+4) 9 (-1) 12 (+1) 9(-1) 8(-1) 14(+2) 12(+1) 12 (+1) 14(+2) 10(+0)

Senses Passive Perception 11 Skills Perception +6

Languages Common
Challenge 1 (200 XP)
Charger. If the enslaved horn moves at least 10 feet
straight toward a target and then hits it with a gore
attack on the same turn, the target takes an extra 7
(2d6) piercing damage and is pushed up to 10 feet
away.
Actions
Gore. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
target. Hit: 9 (2d4 + 3) piercing damage. If the target
is a creature, it must succeed on a DC 13 Strength
saving throw or be knocked prone.
Reaction
Tough Skin (1/day). The enslaved horn can bear the
brunt of incoming damage, gaining resistance against
Slashing and Bludgeoning damage until the end of
their next turn.
Condition Immunities Prone
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 12
Languages Undercommon, Telepathy 120 ft.
Challenge 2, 450 XP
Actions
Multiattack. The tyrant makes two attacks, and must
use two different rays.
Ray of confusion. Ranged Spell Attack: +6 to hit,
range 15/30 ft. Hit: 7 (1d8 + 3) psychic damage and
the target must succeed on a DC 10 Intelligence sa-
ving throw or immediately spend its reaction to attack
an ally if they can.
Ray of Fear. Ranged Spell Attack: +6 to hit, range
15/30 ft. Hit: 7 (1d8 + 3) psychic damage and the tar-
get must succeed on a DC 10 Wisdom saving throw
or be frightened for 1 round.
Ray of Death. Ranged Magic Attack: +6 to hit, range
15/30 ft. Hit: 7 (1d8 + 3) psychic damage and the
target must succeed on a DC 13 Constitution saving
throw or take 10 (3d6) necrotic damage.

178
Half Vampire Lust Fiend
Medium aberration, neutral evil Medium fiend, neutral evil

Armor Class 15 (Natural Armor) Armor Class 15 (Natural Armor)

Hit Points 52 (7d8+21) Hit Points 44 (8d8 + 8)
Speed 30 ft. Speed 30 ft., fly 60 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
16 (+3) 16 (+3) 16 (+3) 11 (+0) 10 (+0) 12 (+1) 8 (-1) 17 (+3) 13 (+1) 15 (+2) 12 (+1) 20 (+5)

Skills Perception +3, Stealth +6
Damage Resistances Necrotic; Bludgeoning, Pier-
cing and Slashing from nonmagical attacks
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 13
Languages Common
Challenge 3, 700 XP
Bloodlust. The half vampire has advantage on da-
mage rolls against any creature that doesn’t have all
its hit points.
Actions
Multiattack. The Half vampire makes two attacks:
two claw attacks or one claw and one bite attack.
Claw. Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
target. Hit: 10 (2d6 + 3) slashing damage or instead of
dealing damage, the Vampire can grapple the target
(escape DC 13).
Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
willing or grappled creature. Hit: 6 (1d6+3) piercing
and 10 (3d6) necrotic damage. The Vampire regains
hit points equal to the necrotic damage the victim
takes.
Skills Deception +9, Insight +5, Perception +5, Per-
suasion +9, Stealth +7
Damage Resistances Bludgeoning, Piercing and
Slashing from nonmagical weapons
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 15
Languages Common, Abyssal, Infernal
Challenge 2, 450 XP
Actions
Charmed Claw. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit,
reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 6 (1d6 + 3) slashing
damage. Target hit by this attack must succeed on
a DC 15 Wisdom saving throw or become charmed,
causing it to spend its reaction to attack an ally if they
can. Target may attempt this save again at the end of
its next turn.
Draining Kiss. The fiend targets a creature charmed
by it or a willing creature. The target must make a
DC 15 Constitution saving throw against this magic,
taking 25 (3d10 + 5) psychic damage on a failed save,
or half as much damage on a successful one.
Apprentice Assassin
Medium humanoid (any race), any non-lawful align-
ment

Armor Class 14 (Leather armor)

Hit Points 18 (4d8)
Speed 40 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA

13 (+1) 16 (+3) 10 (+0) 8 (-1) 10 (+0) 10 (+0)

Senses Passive Perception 10

Languages Common
Challenge 1, 250 XP

Sneak Attack (1/Turn). Once per turn, the assassin

deals an extra 10 (3d6) damage when it hits a target
with a weapon attack and has advantage on the attack
roll, or when the target is within 5 feet of an ally of
the assassin that isn’t incapacitated and the assassin
doesn’t have disadvantage on the attack roll.

Actions
Rapier. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5
ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d8 + 3) slashing damage.
179
Strikes!
Opponents Narration
After a few weeks in control of their new district, a 1 2 cave This small band of individuals,
new host of problems arrive at the party’s door. The High hobgoblins, driven by their own ambition
Warlock meets them at the headquarters, where a full 2 juvenile and bloodlust, began to indis-
meeting of the cult is underway. norkers, criminately attack anyone and
“Brethren- AND Sisters! We are gathered here to 4 tamed everyone in their path, without
address some troubling rumours. The Brotherhood of worgs and regard for friend or foe. They
Light is mobilising right here in Muln. They are forming a a goblin were consumed by their own
militia according to our spies and what is worse,” a stren- alchemist sense of invincibility and power,
gthening breath can be heard from beneath his mask, becoming a dangerous force
“what is worse, is the lies!” spits the High Warlock. that threatened the stability and
“They’re not really mobilising?” asks a bulky figure, safety of those around them.
whose tusks stick out farther than his hood. Their faces light up when they
“No! I mean the liars here among our own! realise the High Warlock’s
“Where?? They’re supposed to be in their cages, I fed chosen have entered the brawl.
them this morning!” squeals a diminutive figure with a
bandaged stump. 2 An orc An Orc War Chief and an Old
“Not lions.. LIARS!” battlecrier Troll are competing to see who
“Oh.” and an old can lay low as many of their
“There is dissension among our ranks! Decievers! troll foes as possible, competing
FALSIFIERS! Members of our organisation who think against the other until they see
themselves above our rules. Well, speak now! Hide in the the party wade in.
shadows no longer!” 3 3 decaying As the brawl broke out, a group
Attendees stiffen in shock, many murmuring amongst mummies of mummies and poltergeists,
themselves as heads swivel left and right. Standing and 3 pol- driven by their insatiable
suddenly, hooded figures firm their shoulders and toss tergeists hunger for life force, saw an
back their hoods as those around them recoil. A tall red- opportunity to satiate their cra-
skinned hobgoblin from among them speaks first: vings. They emerged from the
“We want better conditions.” shadows, drawn to the energy
“And better pay!” comes a chorus of other voices. of the conflict. They were re-
“STRIKE! STRIKE! STRIKE!” lentless in their pursuit of new
victims, and targeted the party.
A colossal brawl breaks out in the confusion that 4 One blue The mage, driven by his ambi-
follows. Shaking his head at his screaming, laughing, and mage tion and desire for power, en-
crying subordinates, the High Warlock leaves waving at and his tered the brawl with a singular
you to suppress the riot. rockskin goal in mind: to prove himself
golem worthy of becoming the next
The party must run through the following encounters, lieutenant of the High Warlock.
subduing their erstwhile allies rather than killing them. He believed that by defeating
Between each encounter the party may take a breather the party, he would demonstrate
and spend hit die as the angry mob breaks for a de- his superior abilities and earn
manded fifteen minute smoke-break. the respect and recognition
of his peers. To aid him in his
quest, he summoned a formi-
dable golem

When these key fighters have been dispatched, the brawl

will break up, with many of the more monstrous cultists
having blown off some steam and a few of the older cul-
tists wondering what they’ve gotten themselves into.

The party will advance to 7th level.

180
Cave Hobgoblin Decaying Mummy
Medium goblinoid, neutral evil Medium undead, chaotic evil

Armor Class 11 Armor Class 11 (Natural Armor)

Hit Points 19 (3d8 +64) Hit Points 38 (7d8+7)
Speed 30 ft. Speed 20 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
14 (+2) 12 (+1) 15 (+2) 9 (-1) 8 (-1) 6 (-2) 16 (+3) 8 (-1) 13 (+1) 6 (-2) 10 (+0) 12 (+1)

Skills Athletics +5, Perception +2, Stealth +4 Damage Vulnerabilities Fire

Condition Immunities Blinded
Senses Blindsight 30 ft. (blind beyond this radius),
Passive Perception 12
Languages Goblin, Undercommon
Challenge 1/2 (100 XP)
Blind Senses. The hobgoblin can’t use its blindsight
while deafened and unable to smell.
Actions
Flame Club. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5
ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) piercing damage and 7
(2d6) fire damage.
Shortbow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, range
80/320 ft., one target. Hit: 4 (1d6 + 1) piercing da-
mage and 3 (1d6) poison damage.
Damage Resistances Necrotic, Poison; Bludgeoning,
Piercing and Slashing from nonmagical attacks
Condition Immunities Charmed, Exhausted, Frighte-
ned, Paralyzed, Poisoned
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 10
Challenge 1 (200 XP)
Actions
Multiattack. The mummy can use its Shocking Glare
and makes one attack with its Rotting Fist.
Rotting Fist. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach
5 ft., one target. Hit: 6 (1d6+3) bludgeoning + 7 (2d6)
necrotic damage.
Shocking Glare. The mummy targets one creature it
can see within 60 ft., forcing it to make a DC 13 Wis-
dom saving throw or become muted and blinded until
the end of its next turn.

Goblin Alchemist
Small goblinoid, chaotic evil
Juvenile Norker
Small goblinoid, chaotic evil
Armor Class 13 (Leather)
Hit Points 17 (5d6)
Armor Class 15 (Leather & Shield)
Speed 30 ft.
Hit Points 17(5d6)
Speed 30 ft.
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
8 (-1) 16 (+3) 10 (+0) 10 (+0) 8 (-1) 8 (-1) STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
8 (-1) 14 (+2) 11 (+0) 8 (-1) 8 (-1) 7 (-2)
Skills Stealth + 5
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 9
Skills Athletics +3
Languages Common, Goblin
Senses Passive Perception 9
Challenge 1 (200 XP)
Languages Goblin
Challenge 1/2 (100 XP)
Nimble Escape. The goblin can take the Disengage or
Hide action as a bonus action on each of its turns.
Nimble Escape. The norker can take the Disengage
or Hide action as a bonus action on each of its turns.
Actions
Scimitar. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
Actions
one target. Hit: 6 (1d6 + 3) slashing damage + 4 (1d8)
Multiattack. The norker makes one shortsword and
poison damage.
one bite attack.
Poison Sack. Ranged Weapon Attack: Range 25 ft.,
Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
Each creature in a 5-foot-radius sphere centered on
target. Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) piercing damage.
that point must make a DC 13 Dexterity saving throw
Shortsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach
suffering 10 (3d6) poison damage on failed save, or
5 ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) slashing damage plus
half on a successful one.
3(1d6 poison).

181
Orc Battlecrier Old Troll
Medium goblinoid, chaotic evil Large goblinoid, chaotic evil

Armor Class 16 (Chainmail) Armor Class 12 (Natural Armor)

Hit Points 30 (4d8 + 12) Hit Points 51 (6d10 + 18)
Speed 30 ft. Speed 30 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
16 (+3) 12 (+1) 16 (+3) 11(+0) 11 (+0) 16 (+3) 18 (+4) 13 (+1) 16(+3) 7(-2) 9 (-1) 7(-2)

Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 10 Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 12
Languages Common, Goblin, Orc Languages Common, Goblin
Challenge 2 (450 XP) Challenge 3 (700 XP)

Assault. One living creature the battlecrier can see Lesser Regeneration. The troll regains 10 hit points
within 10 ft. can use its reaction to move 10 ft. and at the start of its turn, or they regain 5 hit points if it
make a melee attack. was dealt any damage in the previous round.

Actions Actions
Greataxe. Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., Multiattack. The troll makes three attacks.
one target. Hit: 8 (1d10 + 3) slashing damage and 3 Claw. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
(1d6) poison damage. target. Hit: 11 (2d6 + 4) slashing damage.
Stones. Ranged Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, range
30/90 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d6 + 4) bludgeonning
damage.
Poltergeist
Medium undead, chaotic evil
Tamed Worg
Armor Class 12 Large monstrosity, neutral evil
Hit Point 22 (5d8)
Speed Hover 50 ft. Armor Class 13 (Natural Armor)
Hit Points 26 (4d10 + 4)
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA Speed 50 ft.
1(-5) 14 (+2) 11 (+0) 10 (+0) 10 (+0) 11 (+0)
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
Damage Resistances Acid, Cold, Fire, Lightning, 16 (+3) 13 (+1) 13 (+1) 7 (-2) 11 (+0) 8 (-1)
Thunder, Bludgeoning, Piercing and Slashing from
nonmagical attacks Skills Perception + 4
Damage Immunities Necrotic, Poison Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 14
Condition Immunities Charmed, Exhausted, Languages understands Goblin but cannot speak
Grappled, Paralyzed, Petrified, Poisoned, Prone, Challenge 1/2 (100 XP)
Restrained and Inconscious
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 10 Keen Hearing and Smell. The worg has advantage
Challenge 1 (200 XP) on Wisdom (Perception) checks that rely on hearing
or smell.
Ghostly Protection. As a bonus action, target crea- Prestige Mount. The worg is a terrifying and loyal
ture gains resistance to one type of damage you mount, known for its ferocity in battle. When a rider
choose until it receives damage until the end of your mounts the worg, they are granted advantage on all
next turn. attack rolls. The worg has the same initiative as its
rider.
Actions
Life Drain. Melee Spell Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., Actions
one target. Hit: 10 (3d6) necrotic damage and the pol- Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
tergeist regains hit points equal to half of the damage target. Hit: 10 (2d6 + 3) piercing damage. If the target
inflicted. is a medium or small creature, it must succeed on a
DC 13 Strength saving throw or be knocked prone.

182
Blue Mage Defend The Base!
Medium humanoid (any race), any lawful alignment
As the chapter comes to a close, a group of outraged
commoners and the dregs of the district gang have had
Armor Class 15 (Mage Armor)
enough of the suffering they’ve endured under the party’s
Hit Points 40 (9d8)
takeover and tyrannical rule over their district and decide
Speed 30 ft.
to take action. They have approached a band of skilled
and experienced adventurers and hired them to hunt
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA down and eradicate the party’s lair, putting an end to their
10 (+0) 14 (+2) 10 (+0) 16 (+3) 14 (+2) 14 (+2) evil reign once and for all.

Senses Passive Perception 12 Winning condition

Languages Common The objective of this special tactical combat is to eli-
Challenge 3 (700 XP) minate the threat and extinguish the fires before they
damage the base beyond repair.
Spellcasting. The mage is a 5th-level spellcaster.
Its spellcasting ability is Wisdom (spell save DC 14, Fire damaging the base:
+6 to hit with spell attacks). The Blue Mage has the The area spellcaster will cast a fire spell on a piece of fur-
following wizard spells prepared: niture every round. He will stop if he receives at least one
Cantrips (at will): fire bolt, light, mage hand, damage during the previous round, but will start up again
1st level (4 slots): mage armor, magic missile, if he has not taken any damage for a round.
shield
2nd level (3 slots): misty step, shatter At the end of each turn, each unextinguished fire deals
fire damage to the base.
Any creature can attempt to extinguish one fire at a time
with an appropriate spell of level 1 or higher, or with a DC
15 Strength or Dexterity throw, rolling with advantage if
Rockskin Golem
the creature has water or a similar liquid with them.
Large construct, neutral evil
If the base suffers fire damage 5 times, it is considered as
Armor Class 15 in moving form, 20 in defensive
heavily damaged and the below penalty comes into effect
stance
for all creatures within the base. If the base suffers 7 or
Hit Points 58(9d10 + 18)
more fire damage it can no longer be used.
Speed 15 ft.
When the base has taken 5 rounds of fire damage, the
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA growing smoke starts to affect all creatures within the
18 (+4) 10 (+0) 15 (+2) 8 (-1) 10 (+0) 9 (-1) base. At the beginning of their turn, a creature must make
a DC 14 constitution saving throw or becomes poisoned
Immunities Acid, Cold, Fire, Poison until the start of their next turn due to the negative effects
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 9 of the smoke. A creature may make this roll with advan-
Languages Understands the languages of its creator tage if utilizing an object or spell to mitigate the smoke
but can’t speak around them or if they have a resistance to poison.
Challenge 2 (450 XP)
Assault team
Magic Resistance. The golem has the advantage Scout: Picket Fence the Discreet
of saving throws against spells and other magical Area Spellcaster: Erkas Sikvercrown the Runic Plated
effects. Support: Elgis Satwyn
Defensive Stance. The golem can turn himself as Tank: TBD (advanced)
an immovable object that blocks doors or passages.
While in this stance, the golem cannot move or use The attacker CR is 10, the defending team is CR 15
any action. (11.5 for defenders and 3.5 for traps and artefacts).
DM may adjust if needed.
Actions
Ground Stomp. Any creature within 5 ft. of the golem Tips:
must make a DC 14 Dexterity saving throw suffering If the fight seems too easy, the DM can add more difficulty
10 (3d6) bludgeoning damage on a failed throw, or with any of the following:
half on a successful one. • As a bonus action, any attacking heroes can throw
a torch on a piece of furniture, adding more fires to
be extinguished.

183
 • If Erkas uses Fireball, ignite more than one piece
of furniture in a room. Picket Fence
• Update the effect applied to each creature when Small humanoid (halfling), chaotic neutral (Psychic
the base reaches 5 or more fire damage from poi- rogue)
soned to stunned.
If the fight seems too hard, the DM can reduce the difficul- Armor Class 15 (Leather Armor)
ty with any of the following: Hit Points 28
• Increase the amount of fire damage points that the Speed 25 ft.
base can take.
• When the base has reached 5 or more points of fire STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
damage, the smoke only affects creatures when 8(-1) 16(+3) 10(+0) 12(+1) 9(-1) 16(+3)
they start their turn in rooms with fire.
Saving Throws DEX +6, INT +4
If the players fail in their defense: the High Warlock of Skills Perception +2, Stealth +6
the Endarkened Brotherhood will be deeply disappointed Senses Passive Perception 11
and write their name on the wall of shame. The party will Languages Common
be forced to find a new base of operations, and will have Challenge 2, 450 XP
to do so without any aid or support from the Brotherhood.
Sneak Attack. Once per turn, Picket deals an extra
If the players are successful in their defense: As a 104 (34d6) damage when they hit a target with a
reward for their service, the High Warlock grants the weapon attack and have advantage on the attack roll,
adventurers a rare and powerful magic item of their or when the target is within 5 feet of Picket’s ally who
choosing. The item is imbued with ancient and powerful isn’t incapacitated and Picket doesn’t have disadvan-
magic, and it is said to have been crafted by the High tage on the attack roll.
Warlock himself. Trap Expert. If Picket is caught in a trap, he gains
advantage on any saving throws related to the trap,
allowing him to escape or mitigate its effects with
TBD greater ease.
Medium Humanoid (Lizardfolk), Neutral Good (Pala-
din) Blessings
Discreet. This hero starts any combat invisible, be-
Armor Class 18 (Plate Armor) coming visible if they attack or cast a spell. The hero
Hit Points 80 may also spend its bonus action to become invisible if
Speed 30 ft., swim 30 ft. no enemy is within 10 feet of them.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA Actions

Multiattack. Picket can make two attacks.
17(+3) 8(-1) 18(+4) 8(-1) 8(-1) 18(+4)
Psychic Dagger. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit,
reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit: 6 (1d6 + 3) psychic
Saving Throws WIS +1, CHA +6 damage.
Skills Athletics +4, Persuasion +6 Psychic Dagger (thrown). Ranged Weapon Attack:
Damage Resistances Fire +6 to hit, range 20/60 ft., one creature. Hit: 6 (1d6 + 3)
Senses Blindsight 10 ft., Passive Perception 9 psychic damage.
Languages Common, Draconic
Challenge 3, 700 XP

Divine Smite (2/day). When TBD deals damage to

an enemy, they can deal an additional 3d8 radiant
damage.
Divine Taunt. One creature that TBD can see within
range must make a DC 15 Wisdom saving throw.
On a failed save, it has disadvantage on attack rolls
against creatures other than TBD for 1 minute.

Actions
Multiattack. TBD can make two melee attacks.
Greatsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5
ft., one target. Hit: 10 (2d6 + 3) slashing damage.

184
Erkas Silvercrown Elgis Satwyn
Medium humanoid (High Elf), Lawful good (Wizard) Medium Humanoid (High Elf), neutral (Bard)

Armor Class 17 (Mage Armor) Armor Class 16 (Leather Armor)

Hit Points 22 Hit Points 31
Speed 30 ft. Speed 30 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
10(+0) 14(+2) 10(+0) 18(+4) 12(+1) 10(+0) 8(-1) 18(+4) 12(+1) 9(-1) 12(+1) 16(+3)

Saving Throws INT +7, WIS +4 Saving Throws DEX +7, CHA +8
Skills Arcana +7, Insight +3 Skills History +2, Performance +6
Senses Passive Perception 12 Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 14
Languages Common, Elven Languages Common, Elven
Challenge 2, 450 XP Challenge 2, 450 XP

Careful Casting. When Erkas casts an evocation
spell they may choose any number of creatures. The
chosen creatures automatically succeed on their
saving throws against the spell, and they take no
damage if they would normally take half damage on a
successful save.
Spellcasting. Erkas is a 3rd-level spellcaster. Their
spellcasting ability is Intelligence (spell save DC 15,
+7 to hit with spell attacks). They have the following
spells prepared:
Cantrips (at will): Firebolt, Chill Touch
1st level (4 slots): Thunderwave, Shield
2nd level (3 slots): Web
Blessings
Runic Plated. A magical force protects this character
and makes them resistant to attacks, adding + 2 to
their AC.
Spellcasting. Elgis a 5th-level spellcaster. His spell-
casting ability is Wisdom (spell save DC 14, +6 to
hit with spell attacks). He has the following spells
prepared:
1st level (4 slots): healing word, hideous laughter
2nd level (3 slots): enlarge/reduce
3rd level (2 slots): hypnotic pattern
Actions
Multiattack. Elgis can make two melee attacks: one
flourish and one shortsword.
Shortsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5
ft., one target. Hit: 8 (1d6 + 4) slashing damage.
Sword Flourish. Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit,
reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (2d6 + 4) slashing da-
mage. The bard can push the target up to 5 feet away.

Actions
Dagger. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
one target. Hit: 4 (1d4 + 2) slashing damage.

185
 Chapter 5 The Bones or the Oak
Procuring New Allies
“Esteemed and celebrated colleagues!” booms the High
Warlock, “We have gathered here to discuss a grievous
threat. “The Brothers of the Light have been threatening
our very existence with their constant…threats. We must
seek new allies! Despite our most recent disagreements,
we are mightier together than we are apart and by
growing our numbers we become stronger still. We must
be a broad church–”
“Oh here we go,” mutters a hook-nosed woman in a
dark velvet robe, “there’s always a religious angle. He’ll be
talking about money next.”
The High Warlock glances in her direction and there is
a slight pause.
“–and as we are somewhat short of funds, due to our
recent acquisitions, which have yet to see returns, I won-
dered if—well—if I might ask for donations.” The room
is deadly silent, what eyes can be seen, refusing to meet
each other.
“I don’t fink I can do this,” pipes up stout fellow, about
three feet tall, “it’s blasphemy,
right?” All eyes focused on the speaker, who appeared
startled by the attention.
“Blasphemy how?” said the High Warlock, mentally
preparing himself for the agonising reply.
“Well me mam always said it’s blasphemy to follow
more than one church. So if we becoming a church, I can’t
be no part of it!”
“Both would be worthy allies to our cause, although
one perhaps more than the other. Still not sure which…”
He trails off while placing the models on their markers on
the map and looks at you more seriously now. “We’ll take
what we can get, however. So that leads to you. I need
you to get down there, get a feel for the cursed forest, and
find a way to rile them up against the King of Muln or the
Brothers of Light—or whoever will inspire them to come
to our aid when we call. You understand?”
“Good. Now I really must know. What do you think of
the dolls? I knitted them myself.” The tree and the skele-
ton appear to be some kind of lopsided homemade plushy.
The High Warlock briefs the party with the following
information from his sources.
The Cursed Forest has been abandoned by hunters
and loggers for twenty years. Rumour suggests they
awoke something dark deep in the forest and the twisted
creatures within have proved it to be a deadly folly to
enter ever since.
King Boric’s soldiers patrol the outskirts of the forest
to stop any of its dangers from breaking out into his king-
dom. Recently, they have been under greater stress.
A former acolyte of the necromancer has joined the
cult, reporting that his former master, Raze, was raising
an army of undead creatures in the forest. He wouldn’t
say why he left.

“By the g— it’s an expression!” snapped the High

Warlock, “but I hadn’t taken any of our number for the
religious type, which dark god do you serve?”

“Hmmm. It’s t-tradition you see… the whole family! The

Lord… of Light.”

The High Warlock gathers the party to him in private.

The High Warlock’s new office has a large, pentagonal
table, covered in a map of Carte. He points towards the fo-
rest of Mouria, southeast of Muln. Picking up two models
from the table he studies them closely before hurriedly
turning in your direction. One is of a tree and the other is
a skeleton.

“Excellent renditions aren’t they?” he puffs out his chest

before gleefully continuing, “Well, the tree denotes a sect
of nature-loving dryads, and the skeleton, the servants of a
macabre necromancer. What do you think of that, eh?

186
Mulnian Blockade
Approaching the forest, you see the light of the setting
sun glinting off the armor and spears of a large Mulnian
patrol setting up camp within sight of the edge of the
trees. From your vantage point, only a small detachment
is handling camp patrols after the end of a long day. A
moment later you watch a breeze coil its way through the
trees and through the camp, the leaves rustling like sun-
ken whispers from the depths. It brushes past the patrol,
setting them on edge before its cold caress reaches you.
Did the forest just beckon you inside?
The party is faced with the choice of sneaking past the
patrol to enter the forest under cover of night or waiting
until morning, but risk being spotted by the patrol.
Sneaking Past the Patrol
Under the cover of darkness, the party has advantage on
Stealth checks to bypass the patrol. Have the party make
a group DC 17 Dexterity (Stealth) check. At DM Discre-
tion, this group check DC may be lowered for clever uses
of distractions or can increase should the Party actively
bring further guards’ attention. On a success, read the
following text before proceeding to the Cursed Forest. On
a failure proceed to HALT! Who Goes There?
Stalking along the shadows, you skirt around the edge
of the firelight to avoid the watchful eyes of patrols and
their guard dogs. Just before reaching the copse of trees,
you cast a glance back at the camp through the shadows.
Near the centre of the camp by the fires, a group of sol-
diers has begun to gather to listen to a red-haired figure
standing on a mess table. The familiar figure seems to be
preaching to their audience but an approaching sentry
and dog team means you’ll get caught if you dawdle lon-
ger...
Waiting Until Daylight
By the light of day, there is a much greater chance the
party will be spotted. The camp has well rested patrol
guards ready for duty granting a passive Per-
ception of 19 for dangers or threats in
the surrounding area. Approaching the
camp and failing a Stealth check results
in the HALT! Who Goes There! encoun-
ter, otherwise proceed to the Cursed
Forest.
Slipping carefully around the now wakeful
patrols and barking hounds, you cast a glance back
at the camp from the cover of undergrowth. You catch a
glimpse of a red-haired figure standing by one of the mess
tables along with a growing number of soldiers. They
seem to be preaching to their audience while gesturing
to the forest. You strain to hear more, but an approaching
sentry cuts short your observation. Stay and be caught or
head to the forest.
187
Halt! Who Goes There?
“Halt! Whomso goeth there!” calls a strained and high
voice. A gruff figure jogs from the camp towards you,
carrying an ash spear in one hand and a leash restrai-
ning a scruffy, mottled grey hound in the other. He seems
pleased to have set his sights on you. “What do—doth—
we havest here, Rupert? Spies mayhaps?!”
Corporal Tibbs (champion) is an officer from Muln. A
stickler for rules and regulations, Tibbs is determined to
rise through the ranks. He affects a nonsensically formal
and old-fashioned dialect with all the pomp and ceremo-
ny he can as he is sure speaking in this manner makes
him more apt for the role he wants in future. His patrol
partner is Rupert (winter wolf SRD 392), a purebred
Mulnian hound with a sheepy look in its eyes.
Tibbs will ask the party about their business and try
to bring them into the camp, warning about calling over
other guards. If they refuse he will follow-up on his claim
and call for backup in order to subdue them. If allowed to
call out, he will be joined by three more patrolling guards
(henchmen) in 1d4 rounds.
The party may talk their way past Corporal Tibbs by
convincing him they seek to oppose the evil in the wood,
perhaps claiming to be noble adventurers. This requires a
DC 15 Charisma (Deception) check.
“I doth see. Perhaps this mayest be beneficial to us all.
Forsooth, I cannot speaketh for Rupert here,” he indicates
to the dog, “but unless he speaketh up, thou may pass.”
There is no immediate response so you are free to go.
As you pass by, you hear a second gruff voice from behind
you, “You’re an idiot, Tibbs.”
Captured!
If the party is willingly taken into the camp, or cap-
tured by the guards, they will be brought
before Marshal Nott (champion ). By
his side is a familiar red-haired wo-
man (Ruby) who is not introduced
but stares at the party, searching
their faces with a raised eyebrow. The
party may mistake her for either of her
sisters, Rouge or Scarlet, but the woman
does not show any immediate recognition.
Marshall Nott will question them about their motives
and is a much more stern inquisitor. He has proficiency in
the Insight skill, resulting in a +5 bonus. He will require
a DC 19 Charisma (Deception) check to be fooled and
if failed, will order the party stripped of their weapons
and ushered to a comfortable tent to wait in. This tent
is guarded by six champions until he decides what to do
with them.
 While imprisoned, the party may Ruby
question their captors with a DC Medium Humanoid, Lawful
16 Charisma (Persuasion) check
or eavesdrop in their conversation Armor Class 15 (Mage Armor)
with a DC 15 Wisdom (Percep- Hit Points 63 (14d8)
tion) check. Doing so they may Speed 30 ft.
discover the following information:
Lady Ruby is here to recruit
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
Marshall Nott. She preaches to the
soldiers each night that evil walks among them and in the 10 (+0) 14 (+2) 10 (+0) 18 (+4) 16 (+3) 14 (+2)
cities and they do the Light’s work by opposing the forces
in the forest. Saving Throws Int +6, Wis +4
The King’s orders were to watch the forest and patrol Skills Arcana +6, History +6
but there has been word of burning the forest down to Senses Passive Perception 12
weed out the evil. Languages Common
Challenge Rating 6
If the party chooses to escape, they must overpower their
captors without their weapons. However, their weapons Heart of the Righteous. Ruby regains 10 hit points at
can be located by searching the camp with three successful the start of her turn. If Ruby takes fire or necrotic da-
DC 17 Intelligence (Investigation) checks. Each time they mage, this trait doesn’t function at the start of Ruby’s
fail they are found 2d4 patrolling guards and can fight or next turn. Ruby dies only if she starts her turn with 0
talk their way out of the situation. If they fail three times, hit points and doesn’t regenerate.
Marshall Nott and Ruby have been notified and come to Spellcasting. Ruby is a 8th-level spellcaster. Her
collect the wayward party. spellcasting ability is Intelligence (spell save DC 14,
+6 to hit with spell attacks). Ruby has the following
If the party does not try to escape, they are freed that night wizard spells prepared:
by Lady Ruby. She has cast sleep on their guards and tells Cantrips (at will): blade ward, fire bolt, light, mage
them to seek out the darkness in the forest and tell it she is hand
coming. She hopes the party will either destroy the evil or 1st level (4 slots): mage armor, magic missile,
unleash it, proving her preaching correct. shield
2nd level (3 slots): misty step
3rd level (3 slots): fireball
Henchman 4th level (2 slots): greater invisibility, Wall of Fire
Medium humanoid (any race), lawful alignment
Actions
Armor Class 16 (Chain Mail)
Dagger. Melee or Ranged Weapon Attack: +5 to hit,
Hit Points 22 (4d8 + 4)
reach 5 ft. or range 20/60 ft., one target. Hit: 4 (1d4 +
Speed 30 ft.
2) piercing damage.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA

14 (+2) 14 (+2) 12 (+1) 10 (+0) 10 (+0) 10 (+0)

Senses Passive Perception 10

Languages Common
Challenge 1 (250 XP)

Actions
Multiattack. The henchman makes two melee at-
tacks when attacking with its Longsword.
Longsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5
ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d10 + 2) slashing damage.
Heavy Crossbow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +5 to hit,
range 100/400 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d10 + 2) pier-
cing damage.

Reactions
Parry. The henchman adds 2 to its AC against one
melee attack that would hit it. To do so, it must see
the attacker and be wielding a melee weapon.
188
Champion
Medium humanoid (any race), lawful evil
Armor Class 18 (Plate)
Hit Points 33 (6d8 + 6)
Speed 30 ft.
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
16 (+3) 14 (+2) 12 (+1) 10 (+0) 12 (+1) 14 (+2)
Senses Passive Perception 11
Languages Common
Challenge 2 (400 XP)
Leader. The champion can spend its reaction to
make a willing creature reroll a saving throw
Actions
Multiattack. The champion makes two melee attacks
when attacking with its greatsword.
Greatsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5
ft., one target. Hit: 10 (2d6 + 3) slashing damage.
Heavy Crossbow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +5 to
hit, range 100/400 ft., one target. Hit: 85 (1d10 + 3)
piercing damage.
The Grove and the Graves
You hear the sounds of night beetles and a far-off owl as
you step into the forest. The shade from the canopy cools
your skin as the dappled light illuminates the path ahead.
A crossroad ahead begs you to make a decision on where
you will tread next. A moment later you watch a breeze
coil its way through the trees, the leaves rustling with
sunken whispers from the depths before its cold caress
reaches you. Did the forest just beckon you inside, or give
a warning to leave? The forest creatures are silent now.
You’ll get no answer from them…
Upon entering the forest, the party must choose to search
for the Grove of the Nature’s Wrath or travel to the
Graves of the Restless, where the Dryads and Raze dwell,
respectively.
To help make a decision on whom to back, it may be
helpful if the party hears both factions’ offers. Allow for
twists and turns, as well as underhanded dealings with
each faction. At the end of the day, the party will ally with
the leader that remains alive: Meraia or Raze.
The Passage of Time. Both leaders have plans to tem-
porarily leave their bases. It is worth noting that before
While Meraia and Raze are at their starting locations,
those areas are heavily guarded and become more diffi-
cult to infiltrate. Raze will abandon the Graves to head to
a ritual site; Meraia leaving her grove to march with her
minions to disrupt the ritual.
189
When exactly this happens is at the DM’s discretion, and
we’ve included some examples below:
Meraia and Raze can stay at their bases until the party
has had a chance to visit both factions.
One, or both, begin preparation to leave their base after
a set amount of time in game such as after 48 hours have
elapsed.
If the party has already made their decision on who
they are backing, have the opposite leader begin leaving
their base.
If Meraia has left the Grove, it is guarded by Nauglim
(treant SRD 351), a swarm of ravens (SRD 391) and
two giant apes (SRD 373). If Raze has left the Graves, it
is protected by an outer perimeter of six zombies (SRD
356) and inside by two deathdogs (SRD 370) and two
wights (SRD 354).
The Grove of Nature’s Wrath
To traverse the forest successfully and locate the Grove,
the party must make a Wisdom (Survival) check. They
take a number of hours equal to 24 minus the result of
their roll. Each hour the party is in the forest, roll 1d10.
On a roll of 1 or 2, they encounter one of the following
encounters depending on which path they have taken.
Path to the Grove of Nature’s Wrath:
Encounter
1 The party encounters a tyrannosaurus rex (SRD
279), feasting on several zombies. It dispatches the
last of these and turns on the party with a deafening
roar.
2 As the party pauses by a small river they are ambu-
shed by four treant sprouts.
3 A pair of elven druids patrolling the treetops spot
the party and begin lobbing magic pebbles (3-4) with
their sling down on them. They descend to attack
once out of pebbles, along with 2 black bears (SRD
367).
4 While crossing the river, 1 young hydra and 6 giant
cobras ambush the party, seeking for their meal.
5 The party stumbles into a patch of poison thorns.
They must each make a DC 15 Dexterity saving
throw or be poisoned for 8 hours.
6 The party finds a gargantuan patch of desiccated
grass. The relentless flies and mosquitoes seem
to avoid the area, nothing grows there and none of
Nature’s Wrath will enter it. It seems an ideal place
for a rest… while the sun is in the sky. If the party
rests during the night, 2 half vampires attack using
stealth.
Elven Druid Treant Sprout
Medium humanoid, neutral
Medium plant, neutral
Armor Class 11 (16 with barkskin)
Armor Class 11 (Natural Armor)
Hit Points 27 (5d8 + 5)
Hit Points 52(8d10 + 16)
Speed 30 ft., swim 30 ft., climb 20 ft.
Speed 20 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
15 (+2) 14 (+2) 13 (+1) 10 (+0) 14 (+2) 8 (-1)
17 (+3) 6 (-2) 15 (+2) 10 (+0) 12 (+1) 8 (-1)
Skills Medicine +4, Nature +3, Perception +4
Damage Resistances Bludgeoning, Piercing damage
Senses Passive Perception 14
Damage Vulnerabilities Fire
Languages Common, Sylvan
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 11
Challenge 2 (450 XP)
Languages Common, Sylvan
Challenge 2 (400 XP)
Spellcasting. The druid is a 3rd-level spellcaster. Its
spellcasting ability is Wisdom (spell save DC 12, +4 to
hit with spell attacks). It has the following druid spells
Actions
Slam. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
prepared:
target. Hit: 17 (4d6 + 3) bludgeoning damage.
1st level (3 slots): entangle, longstrider, thu
Rock. Ranged Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, range 30/90
derwave
ft., one target. Hit: 10 (3d4 + 3) bludgeoning damage.
2nd level (2 slots): barkskin
Emergency Shapechange (1/day). When the druid
reaches 0 HP, they transform into a giant adder.

Actions Young Hydra

Sling. Ranged Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, range Large monstrosity, unaligned
30/120 ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) bludgeoning
damage. Armor Class 13 (Natural Armor)
Hit Points 49 (9d10)
Speed 30 ft., swim 30 ft.
Giant Cobra
Medium beast, neutral STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
14 (+2) 12 (+1) 11 (+0) 9 (-1) 12 (+1) 10 (+0)
Armor Class 14
Hit Points 17 (3d8 + 3) Skills Perception +6
Speed 30 ft., swim 30 ft. Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 12
Challenge 3 (700 XP)
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
Regenerative Growth. The hydra starts with three
10 (+0) 18 (+4) 12 (+1) 2 (-4) 10 (+0) 3 (-4)
heads. Whenever the hydra takes 15 or more damage
in a single turn, it grows one extra head and regains 7
Senses Blindsight 10 ft., Passive Perception 12
HP at the end of its next turn.
Challenge 1/2 (100 XP)

Actions Actions
Multiattack. The hydra makes as many bite attacks
Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 10 ft.,
as it has heads.
one target. Hit: 6 (1d4 + 4) piercing damage, and the
Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
target must make a DC 12 Constitution saving throw,
target. Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) piercing damage.
taking 13 (4d6) poison damage on a failed save, or
half as much damage on a successful one.

190
190

Arrival at the Grove
Sunlight shimmers through the trees and sparkles
off a pool of silver water. The glade teems with singing
birds, insects buzzing and small animals wander freely,
without fear. There are other animals too— stately stags
that watch from beneath branching antlers, yellow-eyed
wolves lurking among the undergrowth and great apes
standing sentry along the forest canopy. Flowers litter
the glade; daisies, poppies, foxgloves and hemlocks
everywhere you look. In the centre, stooped as if drinking
from the pool, is a huge oak. As you approach a tall slim
woman emerges from within the trunk and gazes at you
with eyes the colour of holly berries.
With a voice as ponderous as a growing tree, the wo-
man begins to speak, “I am Meraia.” and reaching out to
touch the tree beside her, “This is Nauglim.”
Turning back to you, her eyes focus on the group
before her and she raises an arm to point at you all.
Confusion and wariness are clear on her face as a ripple
runs through the glade, tensing each plant and animal to
silence.
“Who…are…you?” she hisses.
Meraia is the dryad of the great oak, Nauglim (treant
SRD 351), and leader of the Grove of Nature’s Wrath. It
is her power that has awakened the plants and animals of
the forest and also commands them to protect it.
Meraia finds communication difficult given her slow
cadence, but the party should not be fooled into belie-
ving her simple, she is wise and difficult to decieve. If
she becomes caught up in a prolonged conversation, she
summons Chatter, a white-tailed crow (raven SRD 387).
It has flown as far as Muln for her, picked up the common
tongue and will speak on her behalf regarding an alliance.
“G’day mates! How are ya?” the crow caws when
summoned, perching himself on a convenient branch of
Nauglim.
191
“It’s like this, eh. There’s this bogan, Raze, who thinks
he can make this forest ‘is own. Well he can sod off, it’s
ours and we ain’t for no turning!” He preens back his ruf-
fled feathers before continuing, “Maybe wes and yous can
work summat out, yeah? You help us, we help you. See we
can’t enter his stronghold, it’s desecrated and defiled, all
dead-like. Bit of a bummer, really…”
Chatter hops closer to you, angling his head to get a
good look at the party. “But you... You can…”
Chatter will seek to hash out an agreement for the party
to murder Raze and consecrate the Graves to keep the
dead where they lie. He conveys that Meraia drives a
hard bargain and their starting position is for the party to
be allowed to leave the forest alive.
During bargaining, a DC 17 Charisma (Persuasion)
check can persuade the dryad to aid the cult more ge-
nerally with animal spies and other creatures under her
command. This check can be made with advantage if the
party bring forth a good point about how Muln is a threat
to the continued existence of the forest.
The party could also persuade Meraia and Chatter
to give them some time to think it over. This can be
beneficial if the party wishes to speak with Raze before
choosing a side. If going this route, Meraia will only give a
limited amount of time to decide as the ritual is set to be
held soon, and the party cannot think of leaving the forest
on pain of death.
DM Note: If the party thinks of being aggressive with the
dryad, a DC 10 Intelligence (Arcana, Investigation, Na-
ture) check grants the understanding that the oak and the
dryad have the advantage while in their terrain and defeat
would be inevitable.
If Meraia takes any damage, the great oak, Nauglim,
awakens and moves to defend her, summoning 2d4 trees
using the Animate Trees action on his first turn. Meraia
is further aided by two swarms of ravens (SRD 391), a
giant elk (SRD 375) and three dire wolves (SRD 371)
while in the grove. If Meraia is slain she will regrow in
Nauglim’s trunk in 1d6 hours unless Nauglim is des-
troyed or by poisoning the silver pool with barrow dirt
from the Graves of the Restless.
Alliance with Meraia
Chatter flaps up to a higher branch, plucking an acorn
from between Nauglim’s leaves. “We know she’s planning
summat. A ritual she’s got to leave his territory for. Our lot
is going to stop her. You need to be elsewhere.”
“Here! You take this acorn and plant it in the raised bar-
row mound. It should be at the base of the Graves of the
Restless. Oi! Take some water ‘ere from Nauglim’s silver
pool; it’ll consecrate the ground and then they won’t have
no place to retreat.”
With that Meraia speaks up again, “We will…grow.
Crush and crack… Squeeze and throttle. We are ever
growing.”
This acorn will need to be buried at the heart of the
Graves of the Restless: Raze’s barrow mound and source
of her power. Once buried and watered with liquid from
the silver pool, the barrow will be consecrated, allowing
the everlasting acorn to stay quietly in place and awaken
at the right time.
Fell Deeds
If the party has chosen to side with Raze and has brought
the dirt from the barrow mound, they will need to add the
soil to the silver pool that Nauglim drinks from. Adding
this dirt will slowly desecrate the pool and block Nauglim
from being able to revive Meraia should she be killed.
The Graves of the Restless
192
This entire region of the forest seems desolate. No
sound other than the shuffling of dead leaves on trees or
along the ground. You realize you’ve not seen any animals
for some time and the plant growth has gone from green
to brownish-grey; sparse to non-existent. Even what trees
still stand ooze a thick black sap from their faded bark.
In the centre of this desolation standsa large fortress,
its grandiose architecture and heroic statues have been
worn down by time and neglect. The hill at its base is
riddled with mounds of fresh earth and even as you ap-
proach, a desiccated corpse pulls itself free from the dirt
and crawls towards the top of the hill where a growing
collection of undead has pooled.
A DC 14 Wisdom (Survival) check reveals the presence of
a side entrance, dug into the mountain and marked by a
trail of footprints. Those who succeed on a DC 20 Wis-
dom (Survival) check also notice that the space between
the footprints is short, Upon closer inspection, the foot-
prints are slow and shuffling, indicating that they belong
to undead creatures known as the Restless.
DM’s Note: Exploration of this dungeon is meant to be
stressful and dangerous, with no opportunities for the
players to rest.
193
List of Rooms 1. Mines
The jewel and metal mines are the entrance through
which the players access the abandoned dwarven
C1. Mines fortress. The mines are dark and damp, with the sound of
C2. Blacksmith Workshop pickaxes echoing through the tunnels.
C3. War Machine Workshop
As the party makes their way into the mine, they are
C4. Entrance hall confronted by a gruesome scene: nine skeleton miners,
C5. Small guard room still working long after death has taken hold. Four
skeletons armed with pickaxes, seem to be in a state of
C6. Banquet Hall
mindless labor, extracting minerals from the earth with
C7. Toilet an almost mechanical manner. The other five (skeleton
C8. Soldiers’ Watch fighters) immediately launch into an attack.
C9. Collapsed corridor
As the players make their way deeper into the mines,
C10. Dwarven Temple they may come across sparkling jewels and veins of pre-
C11. Kitchens cious metal embedded in the walls, with a DC 15 Wisdom
C12. Storage Room & Brewery (Perception) check, they can spot a 20 gp ruby.

C13. Indoor Garden (13A. Recently dug tunnel)

Skeleton Fighter
C14. Crypt (14A. Common Pit) Medium undead, lawful evil
C15. A VIP Cell (15A secret room to spy on the big
cell) Armor Class 13
C16. Prison Hit Points 22 (3d8 + 6)
Speed 30 ft.
C17. Torture Room
C18. Guard Lounge STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
C19. Guard Dormitory 12 (+1) 12 (+1) 15 (+2) 6 (-2) 8 (-1) 5 (-3)
C20. Training Room
C21. Soldiers’ Baths Damage Vulnerabilities Bludgeoning
Damage Immunities Poison, Necrotic
C22. Officer Bedroom
Condition Immunities Exhausted, Poisoned
C23. Toilets Senses Blindsight 60 ft., Passive Perception 9
C24. Officer Office Challenge 1/2 (100 XP)
C25. Royal Bedroom
Actions
C26. Royal Bathroom Multiattack. The skeleton fighter makes two attacks.
C27. Royal Guard Room Shortsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5
C28. King’s Office ft., one target. Hit: 4 (1d6 + 1) piercing damage.
Short Bow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, range
C29. Archives & Treasury 80/320 ft., one target. Hit: 4 (1d6 + 1) piercing da-
C30. Healing Room mage.
C31. Staff Rooms (31A. Secret passage)
C32. Priest’s Room
C33. Stocking room/Larder
C34. Throne Room
C35. Cave Lake
C36. Library
C37. Laboratory

194
2. Blacksmith Workshop
The blacksmith workshop is a bustling area filled with
the sound of clanging metal and the oppressive heat of
the forge. Here, the dwarves would have crafted a variety
of metal objects, from weapons and armor to intricate
trinkets and tools. The workshop is littered with half-fini-
shed projects and tools of the trade, giving the players a
glimpse into the life of the dwarves who once called this
place home.
As the party enters the forge, they find a skeleton
working the bellows and tending to the flames. Despite its
bony frame and lifeless appearance, the skeleton seems
to be expertly crafting a sword, its bony fingers deftly
shaping the metal as it glows orange in the heat of the
forge. The skeleton seems oblivious to the party’s pre-
sence, focused solely on its task as it works the forge with
an almost mechanical precision. The players may decide
whether to interrupt the skeleton’s work or leave it be
to continue on their journey. If they prevent the skeleton
(skeleton fighter) from working, it will attack.
3. War Machine Workshop
The war machine workshop is a large, open area filled
with all manner of strange and complex creations. The
dwarves who lived in this fortress
were known for their expertise in
engineering, and it shows in the in-
tricate design of the war machines.
The players may come across
all sorts of strange contraptions
and devices as they explore this
workshop, some of which may still
be operational.
One catapult facing the southern access door can be
repaired with a DC 18 Intelligence check. The catapult is
able to shoot once for 6d10 bludgeoning damage.
4. Entrance Hall
The large monumental entrance hall used to be a grand
space filled with towering statues of warrior dwarves.
Now it is a chaotic scene of rubble and debris scattered
about the floor, the clear signs of a fierce battle. The
remaining statues are carved with great detail, each one
depicting a different hero of the dwarven people, and give
a sense of awe to those that stand in this hall, surrounded
by the proud history of the dwarves. Among the debris,
the remains of a treant lies in a heap near the entrance, its
body battered and broken.
Players can spot that one of the stone dwarf statues
has cracks and is animated with a DC 17 Wisdom (Per-
ception) check as they draw closer.
If the players fail the perception check, the dwarf statue
attacks with advantage on the first round.
195
Dwarven Stone Hero
Large Construct, Unaligned
Armor Class 17 (natural armor)
Hit Points 127 (15d10 + 45)
Speed 30 ft.
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
22 (+6) 9 (-1) 16 (+3) 3 (+4) 11(+0) 1 (-5)
Damage Immunities poison, psychic
Damage Vulnerabilities: bludgeoning
Condition Immunities charmed, exhaustion, frighte-
ned, paralyzed, petrified, poisoned
Senses Blindsense 120 ft., Passive Perception 10
Languages Understands Dwarf but cannot speak
Challenge 7
Immutable Form. The Dwarven Stone Hero is im-
mune to any spell or effect that would alter its form.
Magic Resistance. The Dwarven Stone Hero has
advantage on saving throws against spells and other
magical effects.
Magic Weapons. The Hero attacks are considered
magical.
Actions
Multiattack. The Hero makes two hammer attacks.
Hammer. Melee Weapon Attack: +8 to hit, reach 10
ft., one target. Hit: 21 (2d12 + 6) bludgeoning damage.
Rock. Ranged Weapon Attack: +8 to hit, range 60/240
ft., one target. Hit: 22 (3d10 + 6) bludgeoning damage.
5. Guard Room
The small guard room off the entrance hall is a
cramped space of a desk, chairs and lockers. It was here
that the guards who patrolled the fortress would rest
between shifts. The room is dark and musty, with a faint
smell of sweat and old armor hanging in the air. The
players may come across old, rusted weapons as they
explore this room, left behind by the guards.
6. Banquet Hall
The banqueting hall is a grand, opulent chamber
adorned with tapestries and banners, and illuminated
by flickering torches. It was once a place of revelry and
celebration for the dwarves, where they would gather to
enjoy lavish feasts and revel in their victories. However,
it now lies in ruin, with broken goblets and discarded
silverware scattered amongst the debris. The air is heavy
with the stench of decay, and the walls bear witness to the
violence that once erupted within these hallowed halls.
Yet despite the chaos and destruction, a sense of regal
grandeur still lingers within these walls, hinting at the
grandeur that once was.
7. Toilet
 The smell of decay and waste hangs heavy in the air of
this small room of broken fixtures. Slick with moisture,
the players may have to navigate through this area care-
fully to avoid slipping on the floor or coming into contact
with any of the noxious substances found here.
8. Soldiers’ Watch
The guard room is a spacious chamber, shelf dis-
playing 3 healing potions and racks of weapons lining
the walls and. A variety of swords and polearms are on
display, their metal glinting in the dim light. 4 guards (de-
caying mummy with AC 16), clad in heavy armor, stand
motionless in the room, as if waiting for a command.
As the party enters, the guards do not move, seemingly
content to remain stationary as long as the players do not
interfere with the weapons or other objects in the room.
Decaying Mummy
Medium undead, chaotic evil
Armor Class 11 (Natural Armor)
Hit Points 38 (7d8+7)
Speed 20 ft.
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
16 (+3) 8 (-1) 13 (+1) 6 (-2) 10 (+0) 12 (+1)
Damage Vulnerabilities Fire
Damage Resistances Necrotic, Poison; Bludgeoning,
Piercing and Slashing from nonmagical attacks
Condition Immunities Charmed, Exhausted, Frighte-
ned, Paralyzed, Poisoned
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 10
Challenge 1 (200 XP)
Actions
Multiattack. The mummy can use its Shocking Glare
and makes one attack with its Rotting Fist.
Rotting Fist. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach
5 ft., one target. Hit: 6 (1d6+3) bludgeoning + 7 (2d6)
necrotic damage.
Shocking Glare. The mummy targets one creature it
can see within 60 ft., forcing it to make a DC 13 Wis-
dom saving throw or become muted and blinded until
the end of its next turn.
9. Collapsed Corridor
This long, narrow passage has been partially caved
in and the remains of a barricade can be seen, scattered
amongst the rubble and debris. It appears as though a
skirmish took place here, with the dwarves trying to de-
fend their fortress from some unknown attacker. With the
ceiling collapsed it’s impossible to go any further to the
north or the west.
196
10. Temple
Walls adorned with intricate carvings dimly lit by flic-
kering torches, the ornate space is filled with statues and
old offerings dedicated to an old dwarven god. Only your
footsteps can be heard breaking the reverent silence of
this sacred temple.
However, the peaceful atmosphere of
the temple is shattered by the presence of
a spectral screamer, the undead princess
of the dwarves. Accompanied by her two
ghostly maids (poltergeists), the princess
relentlessly haunts the temple, attacking
any intruders on sight.
The spectral screamer will use
Fearful Scream as free action on the first
round. This alerts any remaining guards
(decaying mummy with AC 16) in the
soldiers’ watch (8) who will come to help
their princess.
The players may come across old,
moldering offerings and relics and a
50 gp gold sphere as they explore this
room.
Poltergeist
Medium undead, chaotic evil
Armor Class 12
Hit Points 22 (5d8)
Speed Hover 50 ft.
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
1(-5) 14 (+2) 11 (+0) 10 (+0) 10 (+0) 11 (+0)
Damage Resistances Acid, Cold, Fire, Lightning,
Thunder, Bludgeoning, Piercing and Slashing from
nonmagical attacks
Damage Immunities Necrotic, Poison
Condition Immunities Charmed, Exhausted,
Grappled, Paralyzed, Petrified, Poisoned, Prone,
Restrained and Inconscious
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 10
Challenge 1 (200 XP)
Ghostly Protection. As a bonus action, target crea-
ture gains resistance to one type of damage you
choose until it receives damage until the end of your
next turn.
Actions
Life Drain. Melee Spell Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
one target. Hit: 10 (3d6) necrotic damage and the pol-
tergeist regains hit points equal to half of the damage
inflicted.
Spectral Screamer 11. Kitchens
Medium undead, chaotic evil The air is thick with the stench of decay in this kitchen
connected to the Banquet hall. It’s filled with rusted pots
Armor Class 12 and pans, broken tables, moldy food remnants and a floor
Hit Points 28 (6d8) slick with greasy sludge. Unaware or ignoring the party,
Speed Hover 40 ft. a skeleton chef stands by a lit stove of pots and can be
seen using bizarre and inedible ingredients in its cooking.
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA If investigated, the pots and pans are filled with strange
substances and spoiled food, and the kitchen is cluttered
1 (-5) 14 (+2) 10 (+0) 12 (+1) 11 (+0) 17 (+3)
with all manner of bizarre objects. It is clear that this chef
is not preparing food for the living.
Damage Resistances Acid, Fire, Lightning, Thunder;
Bludgeoning, Piercing and Slashing from nonmagical
Note: The strange dishes being prepared could potentially
attacks
satisfy the undead king in the throne room.
Damage Immunities Cold, Necrotic, Poison
Condition Immunities Charmed, Exhausted, Frighte-
12. Storage Room & Brewery
ned, Grappled, Paralyzed, Petrified, Poisoned, Prone
The storage room is a cramped and cluttered space,
and Restrained
filled with barrels of rotgut beer and putrefying pro-
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 10
visions. In the corner, there is a small brewery with a
Challenge 2 (450 XP)
broken copper kettle and a jumble of fermentation vats.
Elusive Target. This creature is difficult to target
from afar. Any ranged attacks made against it are 13. Indoor Gardens
made with disadvantage. Walking down a few stairs brings you into a large, do-
Fearful Scream (1/day). Each non-undead creature med cave with rows of mushrooms growing in neat rows.
within 60 feet of the banshee that can see her for the The air is damp and musty, and any light within is dim
first time must succeed on a DC 13 Wisdom saving and flickering. On the north side, a small tunnel seems to
throw or be frightened for 1 round. have been dug recently.

The mushrooms are about the size of a human fist,

Actions
caps smooth and velvety, and gives off a faint, sweet
Corrupting Touch. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to
aroma along with a soft, luminescent glow. With a suc-
hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 12 (3d6 + 2) necrotic
cessful DC 15 Nature check, the players identify that the
damage.
mushroom is valuable to any shaman or alchemist. They
Scream (1/day). Target living creature within 20 ft.
can spend 10 min to harvest 50 gp of mushrooms.
must make a DC 13 Constitution saving throw, losing
half of its hit points on failure, or 7 (2d6) psychic
As the party progresses through this chamber, a metal
damage on success.
door drops with resounding thunk, blocking the route
back to the storage room. Seeping from the ground, a
dark liquid begins to fill the cave while a shambling horde
of zombies emerges from the tunnels (13A) to attack the
party (10 dwarven zombies and 2 dead walkers).

The players must act quickly to avoid touching the

liquid and run to higher ground in the connected tunnels.
Each round while a player is not in the tunnels, they must
make a DC 15 Athletics or Acrobatics roll to move to
safer ground or suffer 2d6 poison damage as the poison
liquid touches their flesh.

13A. A recently dug tunnel has been mostly blocked by

a large boulder which is being held in place by two squi-
shed zombies. To open the passage and continue on their
journey, players must combine their strength to success-
fully pass a DC 30 Strength check. After passing through
the corridor, players can block the way again using the
boulder.

197
 Dead Walker
Medium undead dwarf, neutral evil
DM Note: This combat encounter is designed to
challenge the players forcing the players to consider pos- Armor Class 8
sible escape strategies as waves of zombies relentlessly Hit Points 30 (4d8 + 12)
attack. It is important to carefully balance the difficulty of Speed 20 ft.
this encounter to ensure it is challenging for the players,
but is not completely insurmountable.
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
14 (+2) 6 (-2) 16 (+3) 3 (+4) 6 (-2) 5 (-3)

Damage Immunities Poison

Dwarven Zombie
Condition Immunities Poisoned
Medium Undead, Neutral Evil
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 8
Challenge 1/2 (100 XP)
Armor Class 10
Hit Points 45 (6d8 + 18)
Zombie Fortitude. If damage reduces the Dead
Speed 20 ft.
Walker to 0 hit points, it must make a DC15 Constitu-
tion saving throw unless the damage is radiant. On a
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA success, the zombie drops to 1 hit point instead.
12 (+1) 8 (-1) 10 (+0) 10 (+0) 8 (-1) 5 (-3)
Actions
Damage Immunities Poison Slam. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
Condition Immunities Poisoned target. Hit: 7 (2d4 + 2) bludgeoning damage.
Senses darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 10
Challenge 2 (200 XP)

Zombie Feast. The Dwarven Zombie has advantage 14. Crypt

on attack rolls against another creature if the creature
has the grabbed condition.
Undead Fortitude. If damage reduces the zombie
to 0 hit points, it must make a Constitution saving
throw with a DC of 5 + the damage taken, unless the
damage is radiant or from a critical hit. On a success,
the zombie drops to 1 hit point instead.
Actions
Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
creature. Hit: 8 (2d6 + 1) bludgeoning damage plus
10 (3d6) necrotic damage.
Grab. Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
one creature. Hit: 8 (2d6 + 1) bludgeoning damage,
and the target is grappled (escape DC 14). Until this
grapple ends, the zombie can’t grab another target. If
the zombie receives any damage, it ends its grapple.
As the party enters the crypt,the atmosphere in the
room seems to thicken, as if the very air is charged with
an unseen energy of multiple eyes following their every
move.
The crypt is a complex network of corridors and cham-
bers, each one more chilling than the last. The walls are
adorned with bones, but no complete skeletons can be
found.
As the party makes their way through the crypt, they
can hear the occasional sound of bones cracking, but they
see no signs of movement.
14A. There is a common pit with turned earth, as many
things have been exhumed.
15. VIP Cell
A barred wooden door separates this luxurious room
from the run of the mill cells in the prison. Well-appointed
with plush furnishings and fine art on the walls, the VIP
cell is marred only by the presence of an undead prisoner.
This undead noble sits at a desk, its eyes glowing with an
otherworldly light as it reads a thick tome.

15A is a secret room located with a DC 20 Perception

or Investigation check. It can be used to spy into the VIP
cell.

The secret room contains a log book written in Dwar-

ven. Players who can read the language may be able to
decipher the entries, while those who cannot will have to
make an Intelligence check (DC 18) to gain some unders-
tanding of the text.

198
 1st entry:
«I’ve been assigned to watch this general, as ordered.
There is a growing suspicion that he may have shared
information about the fortress with those from the grove,
leading to the recent attack. I will continue to search for
evidence to confirm or refute this theory.»
2nd entry:
«I can’t shake the feeling that this prisoner is more dan-
gerous than he lets on. He’s always so calm and collected,
even in the face of interrogation. ”
3rd entry: I can’t sleep again. I keep hearing someone
whispering to him during the night. He must have some
way of communicating with the outside world, even here
but found nothing when checked. Further observation will
reveal the truth; he won’t play us all for fools.»
4th entry:
«He’s talking to the earthworms in his cell, I’m sure of it!
He must be a powerful warlock in order to summon them.
I’ll have to report this to the captain as soon as possible.»
Talking to the prisoner:
If the players decide to speak with the undead within the
cell, he introduces himself as Thraindor, former general of
this fortress and cousin of the King Thraindur the second.
He was falsely accused of betrayal and imprisoned after
the attack of the fortress. He can describe that he was left
here without any care and died from hunger.
If asked about the attack: Thraindor paints a vivid picture
of the formidable horde of wild animals and monsters that
had stormed the village outside the fortress, wreaking
havoc and destruction in their wake. Despite their best
efforts to repel the invaders, the dwarves were forced to re-
sort to barricades and even collapsing parts of the fortress
to block off certain access points. Though they were ulti-
mately able to fend off the attack, the memory of the brutal
assault remains fresh in the prisoner’s mind. Thraindor
was arrested once the siege around the entrance of the
fortress began.
While Thraindor is weak now, he would like to come with
the party in hopes of finding something to replenish his
power. The players can choose to leave him there or take
him along. If released, Thraindor follows the party, sharing
knowledge of the fortress save for rooms 35, 36 and 37,
but will not take part in any fight. If the players make him
go to 37, he will get some strength back for the undying
stone and will join the players’ cult (as a Revenant Lord
from the Restless clan).
16. Prison
The prison is a series of interconnected cells with thick
iron bars and damp, fetid air. The sound of chains and
screams echoes through the halls. Several aggressive zom-
bies can be seen snarling and lunging at the players as they
pass by. These are the soulless assistants of Thraindor.
199
17. Torture Room
A dark and ominous chamber filled with torture
instruments and implements of pain awaits you beyond
the prison. The air is thick with the smell of blood and
sweat, and the walls are scarred with deep grooves and
scratches.
18. Guard Lounge
The guard lounge has a few tables cluttered with dirty
dishes, playing cards and molded mugs of ale. The air is
stale and musty, and the floor is sticky with spilled drink.
As the party enters the guard’s rest room, they are
greeted by the sight of three soldiers (decaying mummy
and two lesser lich) all armed and ready to attack. These
undead soldiers are held together by dark magic, and
are determined to stop anyone who tries to enter their
domain.
As the fights begin players are also attacked by two tor-
turer ghosts (poltergeist) who emerge from the shadows
in the torture room (17) and attack the nearest character.
Revenant Lord
Medium undead, chaotic evil
Armor Class 14 (Chain Shirt)
Hit Points 31 (7d8)
Speed 30 ft.
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
12 (+1) 11 (+0) 10 (+0) 12 (+1) 16 (+3) 18 (+4)
Damage Immunities Necrotic, Poison
Condition Immunities Exhausted, Frightened, Poi-
soned
Senses Darkvision 120 ft., Passive Perception 13
Languages Common
Challenge 2 (450 XP)
Magic Resistance. The Revenant LordLich has
advantage on saving throws against spells and other
magical effects.
Superior Presence (3/day). All undead within 30 ft.,
may roll saves to resist turn undead with advantage.
Actions
Dark Morningstar. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit,
reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d8+1) piercing and 13
(3d8) necrotic damage.
Negative Aura (1/day). Each creature within 10ft.
must make a DC 14 Constitution saving throw or take
4d6 necrotic damage on failed save.
19. Guard Dormitory Half Vampire
The guard dormitory is a larger room with bunk beds Medium undead, lawful evil
and a few trunks for storage. The air is stuffy and the
blankets on the beds are threadbare and stained. Armor Class 16 (Natural Armor)
Hit Points 52 (7d8+21)
20. Training Room Speed 30 ft.
The training room is a large, open chamber filled with
practice dummies and targets. The air is thick with the
smell of sweat and the sound of clashing steel echoes STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
through the room. the party comes across a small cabinet 16 (+3) 16 (+3) 16 (+3) 11 (+0) 10 (+0) 12 (+1)
containing 6 healing potions
Skills Perception +3, Stealth +6
21. Soldiers’ Baths Damage Resistances Necrotic;
The large open air baths are filled with damp slime Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 13
covered and broken tiles. The air is heavy with the smell Languages Common
of mold and mildew, and the water in the tubs long ago Challenge 3 (700 XP)
turned green and stagnant.
Bloodlust. The vampire has advantage on damage
22. Officer Bedroom rolls against any creature that doesn’t have all its hit
The officer bedroom is a small, cramped room with points.
a narrow bed and a few personal belongings scattered
about. The air is musty and the blankets on the bed are Actions
thin and threadbare. Multiattack. The half vampire makes two attacks:
If the general is with them, he will point out a hidden one claw and one bite attack, or two claw attacks.
stash under his bed, which contains a superior healing Claw. Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
potion and a General’s Brooch (page 36). target. Hit: 10 (2d6 + 3) slashing damage or instead of
Otherwise, the party can use an Investigation check dealing damage, the Vampire can grapple the target
(DC 18) to discover a hidden stash under the general’s (escape DC 13).
bed. However, a half vampire) is hidden in the armoire Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
and will attack with advantage any character that comes willing or grappled creature. Hit: 6 (1d6+3) piercing
near it. Another half vampire lurks within the General’s and 10 (3d6) necrotic damage. The Vampire regains
office (24), ready to rush out and attack the party as soon hit points equal to the necrotic damage the victim
as it hears or sees any of them. takes.

23. Toilets
Clearly not adequate for a group of soldiers on the best
of days, the lone toilet in this dirty and foul-smelling stall
has a broken seat and overflows with waste. The floors
are slick with filth and the air is thick with the stench of
decay.

24. General’s Office

The General’s office is a small, cluttered space with a
desk and a few chairs. There is a faint smell of tobacco in
the air.

25. Royal Bedroom

Perfumed with the scent of flowers, the royal bedroom
is a large and luxurious room furnished with a grand
bed laid with plush covers, rich tapestries, and other fine
furnishings.
On a table, it contains a pouch of 50 gp.

25A. Four (skeleton fighters) are patrolling in the cor-

ridors from 34 to 25 and 25 to 30.

200
26. Royal Baths
The royal bathroom is a lush and spacious sunken
chamber stocked with a variety of soaps and lotions. The
air is fragrant with the smell of lavender and the tiles on
the floor are made of polished marble.Even after all this
time, the water is pristine and steaming.
27. Royal Guard Room
The guard room is a small, cramped space with a few
cots and a table cluttered with dirty dishes and half-empty
mugs of ale. The air is stale and musty, and the floor is
sticky with spilled drink.
There are 1 revenant lord) and 4 dead walkers) inside,
ready to attack anything entering.
28. King’s Office
Two rooms that make up the king’s office are opulent,
even if the air is a bit musty. One room contains a grand
desk and throne-like chair covered with a faded map.
The tasteful sitting room that connects is furnished with
a gleaming set of splint armour (400 gp), books and two
comfortable chairs.
A torn paper in the king’s office reveals a peace treaty
between the dwarves and the inhabitants of the grove.
The treaty was signed before the attack on the fortress
and seems to indicate that the dwarves were seeking to
establish a peaceful coexistence with their natural sur-
roundings. However, the attack suggests that this treaty
was either ignored or broken, leading to the destruction
of the village and the siege on the fortress.
29. Archive & Treasury
The empty treasure room is a vast chamber filled
with empty pedestals and empty treasure chests. The
air is thick with the stench of decay, and the floor is slick
with dust and cobwebs. In the corner, there are a few
shelves filled with moldering scrolls and ancient tomes.
Otherwise the treasury has long ago been picked clean,
and only a few coins can be found left abandoned.
The following scrolls are found upon investigating:
Scroll of Raise Dead: This scroll contains a power-
ful necromantic spell that allows the caster to bring a
deceased creature back to life. The scroll can be used to
raise a single creature that has been dead for no longer
than 10 days, and the creature is restored to life with 1 hit
point.
Scroll of Stoneskin: This scroll contains a powerful
transmutation spell that imbues the caster’s skin with the
properties of stone, granting them resistance to nonma-
gical bludgeoning, piercing, and slashing damage. The
effect lasts for 1 hour.
Scroll of Telekinesis: This scroll contains a powerful
evocation spell that allows the caster to move objects and
creatures using only the power of their mind. The caster
can move objects weighing up to 1,000 pounds, and can
also use the spell to knock creatures prone or push them
away. The effect lasts for 1 minute.
201
30. Healing Room
The old abandoned healing room is a small, cramped
space filled with rusted metal tables and broken instru-
ments. The air is thick with the stench of decay, and the
floor is slick with mold and grime. It is clear that this
room has not been used for many years. Two Healing
Potions and one Potion of Vitality can be found.
31. Staff Rooms
As the party makes their way down the corridor, they
are confronted by a series of interconnected rooms filled
with small, cramped beds. It is clear that these were once
the quarters for the maids who served in the fortress.
In one of the maid bedrooms, the party can hear the
sound of something scratching and pounding against the
door, as if trying to escape. Upon investigating, they find a
zombie trapped inside the room, snarling and lashing out
at anyone who comes near.
31A The secret passage is a narrow tunnel that winds
its way through the fortress walls. It is used by the Necro-
mancer and his allies to enter and exit the fortress.
32. Priest’s Room
The staff room closest to the temple must have been
assigned to the temple priest and is furnished with a cot,
altar and dresser. The air is musty and the altar is cove-
red in a thick layer of dust.
33. Larder
Filled to the ceiling with rows and rows of barrels and
boxes, this room is stocked with supplies and provisions
for grand celebrations. There are stacks of candles in
all shapes and sizes, as well as bolts of brightly colored
fabric and glittering decorations covered with dust and
cobwebs.
34. Throne Room
When the players enter the throne room, the floors
slowly creak as the players are invited inside by a bold
voice.The throne room is a grand chamber with a throne
adorned with faded tapestries and rusted metal orna-
ments. The party is confronted by a sight both terrifying
and awe-inspiring: the king, a revenant, sits on the throne
with his eyes glowing a dark, otherworldly light. Despite
his undead state, the king still exudes an aura of power
and authority.
By his throne are the rest of his court: a priest (ne-
cromancer), a bodyguard (minotaur zombie) and four
courtesans (lesser ghouls).
“Welcome, wonderful wayfarers,” he croaks. “Come,
pay your respects to your ruler.”
He will chat with the party with a fatherly tone, as if the
party members are his people, asking for news from the
world before finally asking for gifts of sustenance:
 I’ve been longing for some delicious delicacies from
the outside world, what meal have you brought for your
Majesty?
Monarch Morsels: If the party manages to give some
food containing necrotic energy (such as the food from
the Kitchens) then the king will be pleased and will direct
the party to go see his Grand Wizard to the northeast of
the throne room.
Ravenous Revenant: The king is being delusional and
still thinks he and his kingdom to be well alive. If the
The Revenant King
Medium Undead, neutral evil
Armor Class 12
Hit Points 97 (13d8 + 39)
Speed 30 ft.
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
17 (+3) 15 (+2) 17 (+3) 10 (+0) 10 (+0) 15 (+2)
Saving Throws Str +8, Con +8, Wis +7, Cha +8
Damage Resistances necrotic, psychic
Damage Immunities poison
Condition Immunities charmed, exhaustion, frighte-
ned, paralyzed, poisoned, stunned
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 13
Languages Common, Dwarf
Challenge 7 (2900 XP)
Magic Resistance. The King has advantage on saving
throws against spells and other magical effects.
Regeneration. The king regains 10 hit points at the
start of its turn. If the revenant takes fire or radiant
damage, this trait doesn’t function at the start of the
revenant’s next turn. The King’s body is destroyed
only if it starts its turn with 0 hit points and doesn’t
regenerate.
Rejuvenation. When the king’s body is destroyed, its
soul lingers. After 24 hours, the soul inhabits and ani-
mates another humanoid corpse on the same plane of
existence and regains all its hit points. While the soul
is bodiless, a wish spell can be used to force the soul
to go to the afterlife and not return.
Turn Immunity. The king is immune to effects that
turn undead.
Actions
Multiattack. The King makes three attacks: an Unar- The reduction lasts until the target finishes a long
med Strike, one warhammer and one Authority Glare. rest. The target dies if this effect reduces its hit point
202
players mention anything negative (death, the Grove, Na-
ture’s Wrath, Meraia, etc.), or if they are too slow to give
food or give the wrong food, the king becomes enraged.
The king’s eyes narrow and he stands from his throne,
his bones creaking as his voice echoes off the walls,
“Thou art Tidbit Traitors!”
At this signal, his guards and court attack the party in a
frenzy.
Unarmed Strike. Melee Weapon Attack: +8 to hit,
reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit: 7 (1d8 + 4) bludgeoning
damage. Instead of dealing damage, the King can
grapple the target (escape DC 16).
Warhammer. Melee Weapon Attack: +10 to hit,
reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 10 (1d10 + 5) bludgeoning
damage. If the king is angry, the target takes an extra
7 (2d6) necrotic damage.
Authority Glare. The target is one creature it can see
within 30 feet of it. The target must make a DC 16
Wisdom saving throw. On a failure, the target spends
its reaction and attacks its closest ally; the target is
frightened of the king for 1 minute. The frightened
target can repeat the saving throw at the end of each
of its turns, with disadvantage if it can see the King,
ending the frightened condition on itself on a success.
Legendary Actions
The King can take 3 legendary actions, choosing
from the options below. Only one legendary action
option can be used at a time and only at the end
of another creature’s turn. The King regains spent
legendary actions at the start of its turn.
Spell Feint. The King teleports adjacent to a creature
that just cast a spell targeting him and makes one
unarmed strike agains the creature.
Explosion of Energy. The King magically unleashes
negative energy. Living creatures within 20 feet of the
King, including ones behind barriers and around cor-
ners, roll a DC 15 Strength save or suffer 10 (2d6 + 3)
necrotic damage and are pushed up to 20 feet away.
Drain Life. Melee Weapon Attack: +8 to hit, reach 5
ft., one willing creature, or a creature that is grappled,
incapacitated, or restrained. Hit: 10 (3d6) necrotic
damage. The target’s hit point maximum is reduced
by an amount equal to the necrotic damage taken,
and the king regains hit points equal to that amount.
maximum to 0.
 Necromancer
Minotaur Zombie Medium undead, chaotic evil
Large Undead, any evil alignment
Armor Class 12
Armor Class 10 Hit Points 27 (6d8)
Hit Points 93 (11d10 + 33) Speed 30 ft.
Speed 30 ft.
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
9 (-1) 14 (+2) 11 (+0) 17 (+3) 12 (+1) 11 (+0)
18 (+4) 8 (-1) 16 (+3) 10 (+0) 8 (-1) 5 (-3)
Skills Arcana +6, History +6
Damage Immunities Poison Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 11
Condition Immunities Poisoned Languages Common
Senses darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 10 Challenge 1 (200 XP)
Challenge 4 (1100 XP)
Spellcasting. The necromancer is a 4th-level spell-
Zombie Feast. The minotaur zombie has advantage caster. Its spellcasting ability is Intelligence (spell
on attack rolls against another creature if the creature save DC 13, +5 to hit with spell attacks). The necro-
has the grabbed condition. mancer has the following wizard spells prepared:
Cantrips (at will): chill touch, mage hand
Charge. If the Minotaur moves at least 10 feet 1st level (3 slots): false life, inflict wounds
straight toward a target and then hits it with a gore 2nd level (2 slots): blindness/deafness, ray of
attack on the same turn, the target takes an extra 9 enfeeblement
(2d8) piercing damage. If the target is a creature, it
must succeed on a DC 14 Strength saving throw or Actions
be pushed up to 10 feet away and knocked prone. Animate Corpse (3/day). This ability creates a dead
Undead Fortitude. If damage reduces the minotaur walker with 5 HP. from a corpse within 30 ft. It takes
to 0 hit points, it must make a Constitution saving its turn on the necromancer’s initiative and obeys its
throw with a DC of 5 + the damage taken, unless the orders.
damage is radiant or from a critical hit. On a success, Dagger. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
the zombie drops to 1 hit point instead. one target. Hit: 4 (1d4+2) piercing damage.

Actions
Gore. Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
target. Hit: 13 (2d8 + 4) piercing damage + 7 (2d6) Lesser Ghoul
necrotic damage. Medium undead, chaotic evil
Fist. Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
creature. Hit: 11 (2d6 + 4) bludgeoning damage + Armor Class 12
3 (1d6) necrotic damage, and the target is grappled Hit Points 26 (6d8)
(escape DC 14). Until this grapple ends, the zombie Speed 30 ft.
can’t grab another target. If the zombie receives any
damage, it ends its grapple.
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
14 (+2) 15 (+2) 10 (+0) 7 (-2) 10 (+0) 6 (-2)

Damage Resistance Poison

Condition Immunities Charmed, Exhausted, Poi-
soned
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 10
Challenge 1/2 (100 XP)

Actions
Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
target. Hit: 9 (2d6 + 2) piercing damage.
Claw. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
target. Hit: 7 (2d4 + 2) slashing damage. The target
must succeed on a DC 13 Constitution saving throw
or become poisoned until the end of its next turn.

203
On the corpse of the king the party can find the comman-
der’s crown and the skull crusher (pages 35 & 37).
35. Cave Lake
The cave chamber with the dark blue lake is a vast,
underground space filled with stalactites and stalagmites.
The air is damp and cold, and the water is still, dark and
foreboding.
Three altars stand before the party, each with a different
symbol inscribed upon it:
• The first holds a symbol of flame.
• On the second, a droplet.
• Upon the third, a stick and leaf.
A DC 15 Nature check will reveal the faint remains of
ashes on the first altar.
A DC 17 Medicine check will reveal that the dark rem-
nants on the altar are of blood.
A DC 18 History or Nature check will reveal that this
is an old symbol that designates a plant often used for
Sand Dragon
Large Dragon, neutral
Armor Class 18 (Natural Armor)
Hit Points 152 (16d10 + 64)
Speed 40 ft., fly 80 ft., swim 40 ft.
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
21 (+5) 14 (+2) 18 (+4) 14 (+2) 13 (+1) 17 (+3)
Saving Throws Dex +8, Con +10, Wis +7, Cha +9
Skills Perception +12, Stealth +9
Damage Resistance: Bludgeoning, Slashing
Senses Blindsight 30 ft., Darkvision 120 ft., Passive
Perception 21
Languages Common, Dwarf, Draconic
Challenge 12 (8400 XP)
Amphibious. The dragon can breathe air and water.
Legendary Resistance (3/Day). If the dragon fails a
saving throw, it can choose to succeed instead.
Magic Weapons. The dragon’s weapon attacks are
magical.
Actions
Multiattack. It then makes three attacks, only two of
which can be claw attacks.
Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +11 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
one target. Hit: 16 (2d10 + 5) piercing damage plus 4
(1d8) acid damage.
Claw. Melee Weapon Attack: +11 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
204
brewing. Although there is no trace of any plant on the top
of the altar.
When all three altars are activated, the water drains
away, revealing the dark dirt and sand of the lake bottom,
along with a hidden entrance to the Necromancer’s secret
laboratory. A dragon made of sand, once dormant at the
bottom of the lake, stirs to life. Its dark form writhes and
undulates as it senses the presence of the party.
Without the commander’s crown, the dragon will
immediately attack, but if the players are carrying the
commander’s crown, it will bow in respect thus allowing
the players to enter into the lab chamber.
“Your majesty, it has been far too long since I last saw
you. I did not recognize you at first.”
DM’s Note: The party must engage in combat with either
the king and his court, or the dragon. However, if the party
appears to be in good condition, the DM may choose to
have them fight both.
one target. Hit: 12 (2d6 + 5) slashing damage.
Tail. Melee Weapon Attack: +11 to hit, reach 10 ft.,
one target. Hit: 14 (2d8 + 5) bludgeoning damage.
Sand Breath (1/day). The dragon exhales sands in
a 60-foot line that is 5 feet wide. Each creature in
that line must make a DC 17 Dexterity saving throw,
taking 54 (12d8) bludgeoning damage pushed up to
20 feet away on a failed save, or half as much damage
on a successful one.
Lair Actions
On initiative count 20 (losing initiative ties), the dra-
gon takes a lair action to cause one of the following ef-
fects; the dragon can’t use the same effect two rounds
in a row:
Earthquake. The dragon causes the ground to shake
violently, causing all creatures within 60 feet of the
dragon to make a Dexterity saving throw (DC 17) or
be knocked prone.
Rockfall. The dragon causes a shower of rocks to
fall from the ceiling of the cave, targeting a point
within 60 feet of the dragon. All creatures within a
5-foot radius of the targeted point must make a DC 17
Dexterity saving throw or take 18 (4d8) bludgeoning
damage.
Spray Unholy Water. The dragon sprays unholy
water from the ground, targeting one creature within
60 feet. The targeted creature must make a Dexterity
saving throw (DC 17) or take 10(3d6) poison damage
and become poisoned for 1 hour. At the end of each
of its turns, the poisoned creature can make another
Constitution saving throw. On a success, the effect
ends.
36. Library
The vast chamber that houses the library differs in
construction from the rest of the fortress. Surprisingly
clean, the chamber is filled with neat shelves stocked
with ancient tomes. On one table, a book with many
annotations lies open as if someone had recently been
researching.
A poem on one of the open pages has been circled with
pencil with a plant scrawled in the margin:
Golden and bubbly, from the barrel I pour
a brew of fermented grains, to the glass I restore
the stress and tension of a long day’s toil.
Bringing joy and laughter, a drink of great foil
in social settings, I’m often enjoyed.
But be careful, dear drinker, my effects can be de
ployed
to make you feel relaxed and free of all care.
Be warned, for in excess, my power can ensnare.
37. Secret Laboratory
A hidden room filled with piles of books and bones, the
atmosphere in the laboratory is oppressively tense and
the party can feel a formidable force of power flowing
through the room. Towering piles of bones have been sta-
cked and scattered across the floor only to be illuminated
by a glowing crystal vein running through the walls. The
otherworldly light ebbs and flows as if breathing.
Raze the Necromancer stands at the center of the
room between you and an altar covered in archaic runes.
A formidable presence indeed with glowing eyes, sinister
smile and a dark, twisted cloak of bones draped from her
shoulders. Turning to greet you, she motions you to sit as
a pile of bones rattle over themselves to form a series of
makeshift armchairs.
The party finally meets with Raze, the Versifier. She only
uses poetry to speak. Here is her welcome:
Ah, dear adventurers, your arrival has brought
A mess to my domain, to which I am distraught!
But fear not, for in a minute or two
I’ll have these bones back in order, good as new.
So rest easy, dear friends, and enjoy the show
As I work my magic, bones in tow,
For I am a master of life and death
And tidying up this mess is but a simple test.
The necromancer’s dark eyes gleam as she focuses
on the task at hand, drawing upon the mysterious energy
that surrounds her. Her outstretched hand crackles with
power as she waves it through the air, causing the scat-
tered bones in the room to vibrate and hum with energy.
The adventurers watch as the bones begin reassembling
themselves into neat piles before a multitude of loud
205
cracks ring out as skeletons are restored and horrid flesh
surfaces to cover their body and limbs.
Turning her gaze upon the adventurers,
“In perfect order, all is set right;
The chaos of before is now out of sight.
Speak keenly, guests,
My work at hand is now at rest.
What hasty need has sped you to my side?
A good story can be made from your long ride!”
If the party defeated the King she will add:
“And do not fret,
your hasty actions to the side we may set.
The king may have anger issues;
He is a good lad, don’t you miss.
Though his temper may flare,
His heart is pure and intentions fair.”
As the players explain their presence, the necromancer
will become distracted and bored if their manner of spea-
king is plain. A DC 14 Passive Insight or higher will alert
a player that they need to find a way to make their discus-
sion more captivating.
Alliance with Raze
A successful DC 17 Charisma (Performance) check can
convince her to form an alliance with them. Using poetry
grants advantage on the check.
If the party succeeds in convincing the Necromancer to
form an alliance with them she will ask for them to assist
her in return. Raze has an upcoming ritual the following
night and intends to extend her domain into The Grove
but will be vulnerable until the ritual is complete. The
Nature’s Wrath will try to stop her, and she asks the party
to poison the water of the grove and protect her until
the ritual has finished. This will likely involve facing off
against the Nature Wrath and other potentially dangerous
creatures that may try to disrupt the ritual.
A splendid agreement may be had,
For with your assistance I’ll be glad.
Take these earthen handfuls to the Grove;
Scattered ‘cross the pool will slow their drove.
Then back to my side quick as can be,
Your defense is needed for my ritual and… I.
DM’s Note: If the party thinks of being aggressive with the
necromancer, a low DC roll such as DC 10 Intelligence
(Arcana, Investigation, Religion) check allows them to un-
derstand that this necromancer is on a higher level than
them and cannot be defeated while within her domain.
Now that Raze has raised her nearby creations she is
always accompanied by her two lieutenants, Blanc and
Alabaster (wights, SRD 354), who are both deaf, along
with 2d6 (dead walkers) and 1d4 (minotaur zombies).
If combat is initiated, Raze will cast cloudkill centered
on her, attempting to move to stay within the cloud while
activating her raise dead legendary action. If killed, Raze
will rise again 1d6 hours after death, emerging from the
earth of her barrow (35). The only way to prevent this is
to hallow the barrow by planting an acorn from Nauglim
and watering it with the water
of the pool. If the barrow is consecrated in this manner
while Raze is dead, she does not
revive.
The Rite of Awakening
Once the party has completed their task from either
Meraia or Raze, they must ensure their chosen side wins
the day at the site of the Ritual. They can either choose to
side with Meraia and disrupt the ritual or side with Raze
and protect it.
From a hillock you see the ritual site splayed out below.
The Restless defend an outcrop where Raze has already
begun to enact her ritual, meanwhile the Nature’s Wrath
assault it relentlessly. For now the Restless withstand the
assault, and you cannot see any from the Grove making it
to the ritual circle. It is up to you to tip the balance before
the ritual is complete.
As you push towards Raze, four skeletal stags charge
you down guided by three robed undead…
• Round 3: Two half vampires command the line,
attacking anything that breaks through.
Two pale humans with blood red lips bare their
fangs and leap towards you.
• Round 5: Two spectral screamers and two
revenant lords begin bombarding the party and
Meraia’s minions with their magic.
Shimming visions? No, these are two new enemies.
And they aren’t the ones cackling at your attempts to
break the barrier and stop the ritual.
• Round 10: If Raze is still alive at the beginning of
Round 10, her ritual completes and all across the
forest the dead shamble back to unlife. Even if the
battle continues, Raze has won and Meraia and her
forces must flee to survive.
With a triumphant yell, Raze turns to her growing
legion as a burst of power bursts outward from the ritual
circle. You watch as fallen comrades and bodies long
since dead unsteadily rise to their feet and face towards
Raze. Her ritual has succeeded. The forest’s whispers
that had met you at the path have grown colder and clear-
ly bring with them a warning that you are no longer alone,
and clearly outnumbered.

Disrupt the Ritual

As you draw closer, you see Meraia riding a colossal ty-
rannesaurus rex and waving you and her Nature’s Wrath
minions forward. She gestures to the Restless before
them.

“BREAK! WIPE THEM OUT!”

Hailstones pound the ground, as a clear

sky suddenly clouds over. The hail makes the
ground treacherous underfoot and several Na-
ture’s Wrath are killed by falling ice. An arcane
hailstorm makes the outcrop where the ritual
is held, and 10 feet around it, difficult terrain.

The players have 10 rounds to disrupt the ritual

being cast by Raze as her forces hold back the
assault by Meraia and the players:

• Round 1: Four skeletal stags (decaying

mummy) and 3 necromancers hold the line,
pushing back the Nature’s Wrath.

206
Decaying Mummy
Medium undead, chaotic evil
Necromancer
Medium undead, chaotic evil
Armor Class 11 (Natural Armor)
Hit Points 38 (7d8+7)
Armor Class 12
Speed 20 ft.
Hit Points 27 (6d8)
Speed 30 ft.
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
16 (+3) 8 (-1) 13 (+1) 6 (-2) 10 (+0) 12 (+1) STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
9 (-1) 14 (+2) 11 (+0) 17 (+3) 12 (+1) 11 (+0)
Damage Vulnerabilities Fire
Damage Resistances Necrotic, Poison; Bludgeoning,
Piercing and Slashing from nonmagical attacks Skills Arcana +6, History +6
Condition Immunities Charmed, Exhausted, Frighte- Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 11
ned, Paralyzed, Poisoned Languages Common
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 10 Challenge 1 (200 XP)
Challenge 1 (200 XP)
Spellcasting. The necromancer is a 4th-level spell-
Actions caster. Its spellcasting ability is Intelligence (spell
Multiattack. The mummy can use its Shocking Glare save DC 13, +5 to hit with spell attacks). The necro-
and makes one attack with its Rotting Fist. mancer has the following wizard spells prepared:
Rotting Fist. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach Cantrips (at will): chill touch, mage hand
5 ft., one target. Hit: 6 (1d6+3) bludgeoning + 7 (2d6) 1st level (3 slots): false life, inflict wounds
necrotic damage. 2nd level (2 slots): blindness/deafness, ray of
Shocking Glare. The mummy targets one creature it enfeeblement
can see within 60 ft., forcing it to make a DC 13 Wis-
dom saving throw or become muted and blinded until Actions
the end of its next turn. Animate Corpse (3/day). This ability creates a dead
walker with 5 HP. from a corpse within 30 ft. It takes
its turn on the necromancer’s initiative and obeys its
Revenant Lord orders.
Medium undead, chaotic evil Dagger. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
one target. Hit: 4 (1d4+2) piercing damage.
Armor Class 14 (Chain Shirt)
Hit Points 31 (7d8)
Speed 30 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA

12 (+1) 11 (+0) 10 (+0) 12 (+1) 16 (+3) 18 (+4)

Damage Immunities Necrotic, Poison

Condition Immunities Exhausted, Frightened, Poi-
soned
Senses Darkvision 120 ft., Passive Perception 13
Languages Common
Challenge 2 (450 XP)

Magic Resistance. The Revenant Lord has advantage

on saving throws against spells and other magical
effects.
Superior Presence (3/day). All undead within 30 ft.,
may roll saves to resist turn undead with advantage.

Actions
Dark Morningstar. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit,
reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d8+1) piercing and 13
(3d8) necrotic damage.
Negative Aura (1/day). Each creature within 10ft.
must make a DC 14 Constitution saving throw or take
4d6 necrotic damage on failed save.
207
 Spectral Screamer
Medium undead, chaotic evil
Armor Class 12
Hit Points 28 (6d8)
Speed Hover 40 ft.
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
1 (-5) 14 (+2) 10 (+0) 12 (+1) 11 (+0) 17 (+3)
Damage Resistances Acid, Fire, Lightning, Thunder;
Bludgeoning, Piercing and Slashing from nonmagical
attacks
Damage Immunities Cold, Necrotic, Poison
Condition Immunities Charmed, Exhausted, Frighte-
ned, Grappled, Paralyzed, Petrified, Poisoned, Prone
and Restrained
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 10
Challenge 2 (450 XP)
Elusive Target. This creature is difficult to target
from afar. Any ranged attacks made against it are
made with disadvantage.
Actions
Corrupting Touch. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to
hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 12 (3d6 + 2) necrotic
damage.
Scream (1/day). Target living creature within 20 ft.
must make a DC 13 Constitution saving throw, losing
half of its hit points on failure, or 7 (2d6) psychic
damage on success.
The Barrier
At any point in time, a party member that attempts to
attack Raze, or gets close enough to the ritual circle, will
notice a magical barrier as it repels everything back from
where Raze is standing. Otherwise, this barrier appears
invisible and any attempts to bypass it through physical
means will prove futile.
In order to engage Raze in combat, they must deal with
this barrier by either dispelling it temporarily, or disrup-
ting the magic that is maintaining it.
Party members skilled in Arcana, History or Investiga-
tion, can make a DC 17 check to learn that:
Arcana. These barriers are consistently maintained
by high level magic casters who are unlikely to be doing
anything else
History. Barriers such as these have been used in skir-
mishes to protect casters focusing on more difficult spells
Investigation. Raze looks to be focused on the ritual,
not the barrier or anyone attacking it. Also, none of her
208
Half Vampire
Medium undead, lawful evil
Armor Class 16 (Natural Armor)
Hit Points 52 (7d8+21)
Speed 30 ft.
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
16 (+3) 16 (+3) 16 (+3) 11 (+0) 10 (+0) 12 (+1)
Skills Perception +3, Stealth +6
Damage Resistances Necrotic;
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 13
Languages Common
Challenge 3 (700 XP)
Bloodlust. The vampire has advantage on damage
rolls against any creature that doesn’t have all its hit
points.
Actions
Multiattack. The Vampire makes two attacks: two
claw attacks or one claw and one bite attack.
Claw. Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
target. Hit: 10 (2d6 + 3) slashing damage or instead of
dealing damage, the Vampire can grapple the target
(escape DC 13).
Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
willing or grappled creature. Hit: 6 (1d6+3) piercing
and 10 (3d6) necrotic damage. The Vampire regains
hit points equal to the necrotic damage the victim
takes.
group is actively protecting that space. You’ll likely need
to look elsewhere for more clues on how it’s being main-
tained.
Two Revenant Lord are hidden in a cave in the outcrop
that has been obscured by a boulder. Here they utilize
their powerful necromantic magic to maintain an invisible
barrier, shielding Raze from any incoming attacks. If the
party tries to dispel it it requires a DC 16 check made at
disadvantage if the two revenant lords are still concentra-
ting on that spell.
Once the party has bypassed the barrier, Raze and her
two wight lieutenants (SRD 354) are the final hurdle.
Raze doesn’t stop chanting to save her own life, assuming
she’ll resurrect. If Raze is still alive at the beginning of
Round 10, her ritual goes off, causing the dead to rise all
across the forest. The battle may yet be won, but Meraia
cannot regain control of the forest and thus cannot aid the
Party.
Raze 3rd level (3 slots): animate dead, counterspell,
Medium Undead, Chaotic Evil dispel magic, fireball
4th level (2 slots): blight, dimension door
Armor Class 15 (Chain Shirt) 5th level (1 slots): cloudkill
Hit Points 72 (9d8 + 27)
Speed 30 ft. Actions
Dream Dagger. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA 5 ft., one target. Hit: 4 (1d4+2) piercing and 9 (2d8)
necrotic damage. The target must succeed on a DC
10 (+0) 12 (+1) 16 (+3) 19 (+4) 16 (+3) 13 (+1) 15 Wisdom saving throw. On a failed save, the crea-
ture becomes incapacitated and has a speed of 0 for 1
Saving Throws Int +8, Wis +7 minute. The effect ends if the affected creature takes
Damage Immunities Necrotic, Poison any damage or if someone else uses an action to shake
Condition Immunities Exhausted, Frightened, Poi- the creature.
soned Negative aura. Each creature within 10 ft. must make
Senses Truesight 120 ft, passive Perception 13 a DC 15 Constitution saving throw or take 3d6 necro-
Languages Common tic damage on failed save.
Challenge Rating 7 (4250 XP)
Legendary Actions
Magic Resistance: Raze has advantage on saving
Raze can take 3 legendary actions, choosing from the
throws against spells and other magical effects.
options below. Only one legendary action option can be
Superior Presence (3/day): All undead within 30 ft.,
used at a time and only at the end of another creature’s
may roll save to resist turn undead with advantage.
turn. Raze regains spent legendary actions at the start
Rejuvenation. If the Barrow is intact and desecrated,
of her turn.
Raze gains a new body in 1d10 minutes, regaining all
hit points and becoming active again. The new body
Cantrip. Raze casts Ray of Frost.
appears in the Barrow.
Raise Dead. Target corpse of a Medium or Small
Spellcasting. Raze is a 9th-level spellcaster. Her
humanoid within 30 ft.. For 1 minute, it becomes a ske-
spellcasting ability is Intelligence (spell save DC 16,
leton fighter or a dead Walker under Raze’s control.
+7 to hit with spell attacks). Raze has the following
Dream Dagger. (Costs 2 Actions). Raze uses Dream
wizard spells prepared:
Dagger.
Cantrips (at will): chill touch, mage hand, prestidigita-
Frightening Gaze (Costs 2 Actions). Raze fixes its
tion, ray of frost
gaze on one creature she can see within 10 feet. The
1st level (4 slots): detect magic, magic missile,
target must succeed on a DC 14 Wisdom save or beco-
shield, thunderwave
me frightened for 1 minute. The target can repeat the
2nd level (3 slots): detect thoughts, invisibility,
saving throw at the end of each of its turns, ending the
mirror image
effect on itself on a success. If a target’s saving throw
is successful or the effect ends, the target is immune to
the Raze’s gaze for the next 24 hours.

Protect the Ritual

You see Raze chanting furiously and you fight your way
through the Nature’s Wrath to join
your allies. You’ll need to hold them off long enough for
Raze to complete the ritual, then this will all be over. You
hear a rumble as entangling roots and vines shoot from
the ground to trip you up and try to bind your feet!

The party has been targeted with an entangle spell cast

by Meraia and must succeed on a DC 16 strength saving
throw or become restrained by the vines. Those entangled
can use an action to detangle themselves with another
Strength saving throw.
The party has 10 rounds to hold back Meraia in order for
Raze to complete the ritual.

209
 • Round 1: Seven manticore hippo charge the un-
dead, breaking through and trying to attack Raze.
Seven creatures, their legs barely long enough to support
their immense girth, charge into the fray trampling zom-
bies and bearing down on you.
• Round 3: Three young hydras charge into the fray,
engulfing several undead and attacking the party.
The forest floor itself seems to rise up to try to engulf you
and the Restless, before three large multi-headed crea-
tures bear down on you!
• Round 5: Meraia and the T-Rex head straight for
Raze and ramming into the barrier. Meraia cannot
be damaged while mounted and will attempt to
charm Raze closer in order to attack. She will fight
to the death, assuming she will return to Nauglim.
An ear-splitting roar proceeds the sudden rampage of a
roaring beast, easily as large as a dragon. On its back you
catch a glimpse of the green-skinned dryad, Meraia.
• Round 8 Finale: If Raze is still alive at the begin-
ning of Round 8, her ritual completes, causing the
dead to rise all across the forest. The battle conti-
nues, but even should the party fall, Raze has won
and she will raise them from the dead within 1d6
hours of their death.
A great cry of horror rises to a sweltering pitch as the
fury practically sparks from Meraia’s eyes. Around her,
the bodies of her fellows and minions lie injured and
crying out for succor that she can no longer provide.
Those thought dead now rising into a growing legion
she can no longer feasibly battle.
“Wrong…No… we should have won…”
210
Meraia and the T-Rex
Huge monstrosity, Chaotic
Armor Class 16 (barkskin)
Hit Points 136 (13d12 + 52)
Speed 50 ft.
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
25 (+7) 10 (+0) 19 (+4) 14 (+2) 15 (+2) 18 (+4)
Saving Throws Wis +4, Cha+6
Magic Resistance Meraia has advantage on saving
throws against spells and other magical effects.
Senses Darkvision 120 ft., passive Perception 13
Languages Common, Sylvan
Challenge Rating 9 (5250 XP)
Bound in Bark. While the great oak, Nauglim, lives,
Meraia cannot be truly killed and
reforms within its trunk over 1d10 days, regaining all
her hitpoints and appearing 5 ft. from Nauglim.
Actions
Multiattack. The tyrannosaurus makes two attacks:
one with its bite and one with its tail. It can’t make
both attacks against the same target.
Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +10 to hit, reach 10 ft.,
one target. Hit: 33 (4d12 + 7) piercing damage. If the
target is a Medium or smaller creature, it is grappled
(escape DC 17). Until this grapple ends, the target is
restrained, and the tyrannosaurus can’t bite another
target.
Tail. Melee Weapon Attack: +10 to hit, reach 10 ft.,
one target. Hit: 20 (3d8 + 7) bludgeoning damage.
Legendary Actions
Meraia can take 3 legendary actions, choosing from
the options below. Only one legendary action option
can be used at a time and only at the end of another
creature’s turn. Meraia regains spent legendary ac-
tions at the start of its turn.
Club. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
target. 8 (1d8 + 4) bludgeoning damage.
Eating good berries. Meraia summons good ber-
ries and feeds them to the T Rex. They immediately
regain 10 HP
Fey Charm (Costs 2 Actions). Meraia targets one
humanoid or beast that she can see within 30 feet of
her. If the target can see the dryad, it must succeed on
a DC 14 Wisdom saving throw or be magically char-
med. The charmed creature regards the dryad as a
trusted friend to be heeded and protected. The effect
ends if the affected creature takes any damage or if
someone else uses an action to shake the creature.
Entangle. (Costs 2 Actions). Meraia cast Entangle
(DC 16 Strength saving throw to escape).
 Laid to Rest
Manticore Hippo
Medium monstrosity, neutral evil If the ritual is disrupted, Raze’s ambitions are over and
Meraia has taken back her forest. If the
Armor Class 11 (Natural Armor) party aided her, she will honour the deal Chatter made
Hit Points 33 (6d8 + 6) with them and send aid against Muln.
Speed 40 ft.
The party advances to level 8 and the party may now use
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA creatures of Nature’s Wrath to defend the base. Reco-
gnizing the valor of the party, a CR 2 creature pledges its
17 (+3) 12 (+1) 13 (+1) 7 (-2) 7 (-2) 8 (-1) loyalty to the party. It joins the Brotherhood for defense.
Skills Stealth +3 “Flowering. Growing. We will grow together…. Crush
Senses Darkvision, Passive Perception 11 the humans.”
Languages Common
Challenge 1 (700 XP) If the party opposed Meraia, she will seek to kill them and
may yet attempt to expand beyond the forest anyway…
Actions
Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
target. Hit: 10 (2d6 + 3) piercing damage. If the target Deadheading Blossoms
is a medium or small creature, it must succeed on a
DC 13 Strength saving throw or be knocked prone. If the ritual is protected, Meraia’s forces have been scat-
Tail. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 10 ft., tered and the undead have been allowed to rise allowing
one target. Hit: 7 (1d8 + 3) piercing damage + 7 (2d6) Raze to usurp the forest for her own. If the party aided
poison damage. her, she will send aid against Muln.

The party advances to level 8 and the party may now

start using creatures of the undead in their base defense.
Further, a CR 2 creature from the Restless pledges its
Young Hydra allegiance to the party. It becomes part of the Brothe-
Large monstrosity, unaligned
rhood’s defense.
Armor Class 13 (Natural Armor)
“New poems shall remember this day. They must be
Hit Points 49 (9d10)
shared…”
Speed 30 ft., swim 30 ft.
If the party opposed Raze, she will seek them out to kill
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA them as her ambitions to control a larger garden pro-
14 (+2) 12 (+1) 11 (+0) 9 (-1) 12 (+1) 10 (+0) gress.

Skills Perception +6
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 12
Defend The Base!
Challenge 3 (700 XP)
At the end of the chapter, the Brotherhood of Light
receives a tip from a traitor within the organization.
Regenerative Growth. The hydra starts with three
Unhappy with how the organization have desecrated and
heads. Whenever the hydra takes 15 or more damage
used nature, the traitor has disabled all the traps in the
in a single turn, it grows one extra head and regains 7
base and provided vital information to the Brotherhood
HP at the end of its next turn.
of Light on how to best invade the secret lair. A party of
heroes related to nature (rangers and druids) have allied
Actions together to unleash nature’s true wrath.
Multiattack. The hydra makes as many bite attacks
as it has heads.
Winning condition
Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
The objective of this special tactical combat is to elimi-
target. Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) piercing damage.
nate the threat before they reach the room containing the
secret way leading to the heart of the dungeon.

211
Assault team
Scout: Harry Bull the Well Equipped
Area Spellcaster: Thareth Vyrarish
Support: Elantys the Arcane Shield
Tank: Oakurk
If the players fail in their defense: The base is destroyed
and the High Warlock of the Endarkened Brotherhood
will find a new base by himself. He personally sets up
an additional trap to protect the lair, but does not share
knowledge of its use with anyone.

The total attacker CR is 9, and the defending team is If the players are successful in their defense: As a
expected to be a CR 13.5 (11.5 for defenders and 2 arte- reward for their service, the High Warlock grants the
facts as traps are disabled for this fight). DM may adjust if adventurers an advanced trap and an artefact to be used
needed. to protect the lair.

Harry Bull Thareth Vyrarish

Medium humanoid (Human), Chaotic Neutral Medium humanoid (Dragonfolk), Chaotic (Druid)
(Monster Slayer)
Armor Class 12 (Hide Armor)
Armor Class 15 (Leather Armor) Hit Points 38
Hit Points 33 Speed 30 ft.
Speed 30 ft.
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
12 (+1) 10 (+0) 14 (+2) 14 (+2) 18 (+4) 12 (+1)
12 (+1) 18 (+4) 12 (+1) 10 (+0) 16 (+3) 10 (+0)
Saving Throws WIS +7, INT +5
Saving Throws STR +4, DEX +7 Skills Medicine +3, Nature +3
Skills Athletics +7, Stealth +7 Damage Resistances Psychic, Cold
Senses Passive Perception 13 Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 13
Languages Common Languages Common
Standard (CR 2, 450 XP) Standard (CR 2, 450 XP)

Goblinoid Hunter. Whenever Harry deals damage to
a goblinoid they deal an extra 2 piercing damage.
Tenacious Slayer. When you hit a creature with a
weapon attack, the creature takes an extra 1d6 da-
mage if it’s below its hit point maximum.
Blessings
Well Equipped. For the next day, the hero has a +2
bonus to the attack rolls and damage rolls. (included
in the attack)
Actions
Multiattack. Harry can make two attacks.
Shortbow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +9 to hit, range
80/320 ft., one target. Hit: 9 (1d6 + 6) piercing da-
mage.
Shortsword. Melee weapon attack: +9 to hit, reach
5ft., one target. Hit: 9 (1d6 + 6) slashing damage.
Emergency Shapechange (1/day). Thareth trans-
forms into a wolf when he reaches 0 HP.
Cold Spell. Thareth’s spells carry a chill, changing
their damage type to cold.
Spellcasting. Thareth is a 5th-level spellcaster. Their
spellcasting ability is Wisdom (spell save DC 15, +7 to
hit with spell attacks). They have the following spells
prepared:
Cantrips (at will): shillelagh
1st level (4 slots): faerie fire, entangle, burning
hands
2nd level (3 slots): flaming sphere
3rd level (2 slots): plant growth
Actions
Claws. Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5ft.,
one target. Hit: 8 (1d8 + 4 ) plus 3 (1d6) poison.
Cold Breath (1/day). Thareth exhales a blast of free-
zing wind in a 20-foot cone. Each creature in that area
must make a DC 15 Dexterity saving throw, taking 18
(3d8+4) cold damage on a failed save, or half as much
damage on a successful one.

212
Elantys Oakurk
Medium humanoid (Half-elf), neutral good (Monk) Large goblinoid (Orc), Neutral (Druid)

Armor Class 16 (Unarmored Defense) Armor Class 11

Hit Points 33 Hit Points 68
Speed 40 ft. Speed 40 ft., climb 30 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
12 (+1) 16 (+3) 12 (+1) 12 (+1) 16( +3) 8 (-1) 19 (+4) 10 (+0) 16 (+3) 10 (+0) 16 (+3) 14 (+2)

Saving Throws STR +4, DEX +6 Saving Throws INT +3, WIS +6
Skills Acrobatics +6, Medicine +3 Skills Nature +4, Survival +5
Senses Passive Perception 14 Senses Passive Perception 14
Languages Common, Elvish Languages Common, Orcish
Standard (CR 2, 450 XP) Standard (CR 2, 450 XP)

Healing Touch. Once on their turn, Elantys can res-
tore 10 HP to an ally within 5 ft. of him.
Blessings
Arcane Shield (2/day). When an attacker the hero
can see within 30 ft. successfully hits an ally with an
attack, they can use their reaction to halve the at-
tack’s damage.
Actions
Multiattack. Elantys can make two attacks .
Unarmed Strike. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit,
reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d6+4) bludgeoning
damage.
Stunning strike (3/day). Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to
hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 6 (1d6+3) bludgeoning
damage. The target must succeed on a DC13 Consti-
tution saving throw or be stunned until the end of
your next turn.
Regeneration. Oakurk heals himself for 8 hit points
at the start of his turn. If he takes acid or fire da-
mage, this trait doesn’t function at the start of his
next turn. Oakurk dies only if it starts its turn with 0
hit points and doesn’t regenerate.
Actions
Multiattack. Oakurk makes two attacks: one with its
bite and one with its claws.
Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
target. Hit: 8 (1d8 + 4) piercing damage.
Claws. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
one target. Hit: 11 (2d6 + 4) slashing damage.

213
 Chapter 6: A Rat Problem
The Rat Among Us
You stand before the High Warlock in
his office, as he paces in front of you.
“We have a rat.”
From the floor a tiny jaw gapes and two beady eyes fix
themselves to the High Warlock. Still but for its twitching
wormlike tail, the creature readies to flee at any moment.
“Someone sabotaged our defenses before that last
attack; the Brotherhood of Light and that red-haired witch
have planted a traitor in our midst.” A small sigh escapes
tiny rodent lungs and tentatively, it begins to back out of the
room.
The High Warlock continues with a growl, “We must
continue to maintain our anonymity, but I know I can trust
you, you’re in too deep. I have a plan; a method to put every
one of those treacherous worms into question!”
“There is a sensitive mission I wish you to undertake,
and it may prove useful in finding our rat. Or even more
than one…”
“I’ve received word that Prince Frawd of Clandgia, the
would-be son-in-law of King Boric is pushing for marriage
with Princess Charity earlier than even the king and prin-
cess have planned. In order to secure this earlier date, he is
sending a caravan of gifts to Muln. More than trinkets, and
the material to recreate the dress, is the most important gift
of all: Patience. Surprising since he’s in such a hurry!”
He chuckles at his own joke before continuing, “Pa-
tience of Muln is the King’s eldest daughter and true heir
to the throne. Exiled for speaking out against her father,
she sought political asylum, and safety from the R’Atons, in
Clandgia. She has continued to speak against the King, but
Boric’s patience with Patience has ebbed and she has been
ratted out.
“With her as the figurehead, the cult can take over Muln
unimpeded. But first, we need to intercept Patience. This
is also an opportunity to expose our rats. Consider anyone
who volunteers a suspect. Mark my words, the spy will be
among your volunteers. Find them and dispose of them.”
The party has a number of volunteers for the top secret
mission and can establish that only three of them had the
knowledge or opportunity to deactivate the traps.
Taking care not to appear suspicious, the party may speak
to each hoping to get a sense of their trustworthiness.
214
Malus
Carefully keeping their mottled grey face hidden in the
depths of their hood, Malus (oni, SRD 336). outwardly
shows their jealousy at your accomplishments. They have
a flint and steel hanging from their belt and short, curved
dagger.
“Greetingss,” hisses Malus, “Looks like today we strike
a blow for the dark. You’ve been having all the fun lately,
surely such luck cannot hold?”
Secret. Orgimmaz or “Malus” is an oni masquerading as
a human. He views other members of the cult as prey and
would just as happily kill them as enemies of the cult. He
does however believe the cult will build a better world for
his depredations.
Claw
A woman (assassin, SRD 396) in a hooded cowl and iron
face mask. She keeps her features well hidden and her
answers short, but asks pointed questions about the mis-
sion to keep herself informed.
“I look forward to the mission.”
Secret. Real name Mabel Millicent, the “Claw” that you
know is actually a well known member of the Hatbury
town council. She believes she could rule Hatbury as
nobility if the Cult should take over Muln.
Dimble
A short, bumbling dwarf (spy, SRD 402) who often in-
terrupts with questions or babble during meetings. He
bounces restlessly and his hood barely covers his forehead,
nevermind his bulbous nose and the excited grin on his
face.
“I can’t wait! Field work, finally! I thought you and the High
Warlock hated me; I was intimidated, really. Is it ok if I ask
questions?”
Secret. Dumpy Dimble is the owner of Dimble’s Di-
rigibles, a courier business. It provides a cover for his
true business, the buying and selling of information. He
believes the cult is bad for business and has been passing
select information to the Brotherhood.
The players may interrogate these characters further, but
remind them that they are ostensibly anonymous members
of a secret cult. Successful Insight checks against the
character’s Deception rolls reveal that they are all hiding
something. Rolls that beat DC 20 reveal a hint of the cha-
racter’s Secret.
Once the party is ready, they can set out for the ambush.
Make it clear the party is the strike team and the other
cultists are there to assist.
Note for DM: The party will have to rely on traditional
detective methods, as the Endarkened Brotherhood has
been protected by a ritual that makes them immune to
basic divination spells (from chapter 3). This means that
spells such as detect thoughts, zone of truth and clair-
voyance will not be effective in uncovering the traitor
among them.
Don’t Lose Patience
The R’Aton caravan is passing through the Hatbury
Mountains, providing an ideal locale for an ambush
beyond the reach of Muln’s patrols. It’s up to them to
choose a direct assault or a stealthy ambush. With careful
observation from a safe vantage a DC 16 Wisdom (Per-
ception) check identifies the following:
The caravan consists of three wagons, pulled by mules.
The central wagon is a more ornate carriage.
There is a driver and a guard visible on each wagon,
save the middle which has two extra armored guards at
the back.
If the party rolled over a DC 20 for the Perception
check, they discover a set of tracks nearby. A DC 15 Wis-
dom (Survival) check identifies that of a large horse being
led by a heavy footed humanoid.
All out Assault
As you launch a sudden ambush, the wagons halt
suddenly and the armoured guards begin barking orders
to their comrades. A moment later, the R’Aton men charge
forward, crossbows drawn to meet the party.
The six drivers and guards (all wererats, SRD 327)
on the wagons are in their humanoid form and are the
R’Aton’s most trusted servants. The two armored guards
(knights, SRD 400) who bark orders to the wererats
to dismount, pull out crossbows and move towards the
party.
On round 2, a golden knight and his steed (unicorn,
SRD 351) arrive and make a beeline for the central
carriage. If the knight reaches the carriage he will use an
action to open the carriage and attack the bound Princess
215
Patience, a blue mage. This first attack against Patience
should be an automatic hit if she is still bound.
Unless the party intervenes he will continue to attack
until she is dead before sheathing his sword on his saddle
and making his escape. If the knight is killed, the unicorn
will attempt to flee.
Lie in Wait
You lie in wait, but just before the caravan reaches you,
the sound of hooves reaches you heralds the arrival of a
figure clad in golden armour. Astride a unicorn, they are
making haste towards the rear of the caravan.
The six guards (wererats) move to attack the incoming
golden knight and his steed (unicorn), but will divide
their forces should the party be spotted, or if they engage
in a fight.
The knight will fight their way to the central carriage and
will attack the bound Princess Patience. The knight will
continue to attack until she is dead before sheathing his
sword in his saddle and retreating. Patience dies after she
has taken three rounds of attacks from the knight. If the
knight is killed, the unicorn will attempt to flee.
What are the Cultists doing?
During the ambush, the other cultists will assist as best
they can without getting involved in the fight. The three
suspects undertake the following actions:.
Malus. Runs to secure the front caravan, containing
gold and jewels, and then to the third, looking for magical
artifacts.
Claw. Runs to secure the Princess. She will alert the
party to any threats to the Princess’s life.
Dimble. Runs straight to calm the lead horses.
Golden Knight
Medium Humanoid (elf), Lawful Good Saving Patience
Armor Class 18 (Plate) The party should hopefully
Hit Points 112 (15d8 + 45) intervene and prevent the
Speed 30 ft. death of Patience, but if
she dies, Malus or Claw
should suggest bringing
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
her back to the cult and the
20 (+5) 12 (+0) 16 (+3) 14 (+2) 12 (+1) 14 (+2) High Warlock.

Saving Throws Str +9, Dex +4, Con +7
Senses Passive Perception 13
Languages Common, Elven
Challenge Rating 9 (5000 XP)
Fey Ancestry. The Golden Knight has advantage
on saving throws against being charmed, and magic
can’t put the Golden Knight to sleep.
Actions
Multiattack. The Golden Knight makes three melee
attacks when attacking with its greatsword.
Magic Greatsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +10 to
hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 12 (2d6 + 5) slashing
damage.
Heavy Crossbow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +5 to hit,
range 100/400 ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d10 + 3) pier-
cing damage.
Reactions
Parry. The knight adds 2 to its AC against one melee
attack that would hit it. To do so, the knight must see
the attacker and be wielding a melee weapon.
Blue Mage
Medium humanoid (any race), any lawful alignment
Armor Class 15 (Mage Armor)
Hit Points 40 (9d8)
Speed 30 ft.
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
10 (+0) 14 (+2) 10 (+0) 16 (+3) 14 (+2) 14 (+2)
Senses Passive Perception 12
Languages Common
Challenge 3 (700 XP)
Spellcasting. The mage is a 5th-level spellcaster.
Its spellcasting ability is Wisdom (spell save DC 14,
+6 to hit with spell attacks). The Blue Mage has the
following wizard spells prepared:
Cantrips (at will): fire bolt, light, mage hand,
1st level (4 slots): mage armor, magic missile,
shield
2nd level (3 slots): misty step, shatter
If Patience survives, she
demands to know who the
party is and why they have
saved her. This may be in
part due to being closely
shadowed by Claw.
Through conversation, the
party can learn that Patience was forced to dabble in
magic to escape her father’s lands and her staunch oppo-
sition to the King. A passive Insight of 16, or a succesful
check of the same, indicates that Patience is not necessa-
rily inclined to side with evil.
The party should have most success if they avoid any
mention of the cult or evil deeds, instead focusing on
their organisation’s opposition to the King and their
support of her. If this has not been brought up, a DC 14
Charisma check is successful to influence her to return
with the party. However this DC increases to 18 if they
have mentioned the cult.
What the Golden Knight left behind
As you finish with Patience, Malus points out a paper
on the ground that has likely fallen from the golden knight
during the fight. Upon inspection, the note requests the
Brotherhood of Light to send someone to kill Princess
Patience and provides the caravan route.
If the golden knight was slain before he could attempt to
escape, the party locates the Sword of Souls on him and
see that his armor displays the Brotherhood of Light insi-
gnia. If his unicorn companion managed to escape after
the sword was sheathed, it will carry the Sword of Souls
to the Brotherhood of Light.
The Sword of Souls is a +2 magical longsword which
has the ability to sense the hearts of humanoids. If it is
held by a creature of an evil alighment, it deals
one radiant damage per round to that
creature before shrieking “MAY MY
BLADE PURIFY YOUR SOUL!”.
(For the purposes of the sword,
all the cultists are “evil” while
the Brotherhood of Light are all
considered “good”.)

216
Direct Questioning
Traveling
At some point during the adventure, it is likely the party Treasure or
will directly confront the suspects.
If they have claimed the Sword of Souls then they may use Patented
it to easily identify the spy, otherwise, it may require care- Payback?
ful interrogation. The following responses may be received
during questioning: The party is called over to
have a look at several papers, an
Malus itinerary of sorts that was on one
of the drivers. It shows that the
“I am no traitor. Do not test my caravan was expected to over-
faith.” night at a hunting estate
“I will shed blood for our several hours from here, and where they were to collect
cause and I have no love of Prince Frawd.
the light.”

After the caravan ambush: If Patience is with the party, she demands they find and
“I secured the riches for kill Frawd for trying to hand her over to her father. If not,
the cult.” the cultists suggest the same. It’s a good way to remove
Prince Frawd, as well as initiate a rift between Muln and
Clandgia.

Dimble points out their mission was to recover the

Claw
“I am here to safeguard our
future. Nothing more.”
After the caravan ambush:
“I’m glad you stepped in when
you did, that gold-armored
enemy was dangerous!”
Dimble
Princess: “If we leave now we can get her back to the
High Warlock and we can take some of this treasure
too!”
Claw points out the wagons are too easily recogni-
sable: “Princess Patience is the priority. We must move
light and quickly back to base.”
Malus remains quiet, but if pressed advocates for
killing Frawd: “Best remove the thorn before it’s em-
bedded further.”

“I don’t know nothing If the party heads straight home with only Patience, they
about traitors!” manage to elude all pursuit and make it to base quickly.
“Haven’t we all done bad Proceed to Aftermath.
things to get ahead?” If they decide to take along all of the treasure in the wa-
gons, proceed to Treasure Trove.
After the caravan ambush: If they decide to find and face Frawd, with or without the
“I only ran forward to calm treasures, proceed to Facing Frawd.
the horses is all! It made it
easier for you to save the Treasure Trove
Princess.”
If they take the treasure and escort it back to the cult, the
Discovering the Culprit party must undertake a skill challenge to get the wagons
back without being attacked by R’Aton hunters. This Skill
The short dwarf looks bewildered as ever. Then he Challenge requires 5 successes to pass before 3 fails are
catches the look in your eyes and shrugs sheepishly at accrued.
being caught out. The quick motion runs through his entire
body and suddenly the relaxed, bumbling fool is coiled like Each player may use any skills they are proficient with,
a spring. His movements have a flawless economy of ener- but may not use the same skill more than once. At the
gy and he puts his back away from his foes. DM’s discretion, expending spell slots to cast appropriate
“Light above, protect thy servant from the slaves of evil!” spells can count as a success. Players should get creative
he cries before a winged humanoid appears before you. with their skills, with possible options laid out here. More
A deva (SRD 261) appears, protecting Dimble in order to unusual or unlikely uses will have a higher DC.
give him a chance to escape.

217
Skill Use(s) DC
The party will reach Hatbury with the wagons, but how
Acrobatics Stay seated 15 much opposition they face depends on the failures ac-
on the wagons crued.
while they
plunge along Failures
steeppaths and • No failures: The party makes it to Hatbury unsca-
narrow ledges. thed.
Athletics Clear obstacles 14
swiftly. • One failure: The party is caught before Hatbury by
Animal Handling Urge on the 14 two champions on warhorses (SRD 392) with a
horses, trying to pack of two hounds (hellpups).
gain a burst of
speed. • Two failures: The party is caught before Hatbury by
two champions on warhorses with a pack of four
Nature Read signs in 13 hounds (hellpup).
the geography
indicating a • Three failures: The party is caught before Hatbury
shorter route. by three champions on warhorses with a pack of
Perception Watch for signs 14 four hounds (hellpup).
of pursuit.
Stealth Try to conceal 16
your passage.
Survival Follow paths 14
that are less Hellpup
trodden and Medium fiend, lawful evil
cross fords to
hide your scent. Armor Class 15 (Natural Armor)
Hit Points 22 (4d8 + 8)
Speed 50 ft.

Champion STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA

Medium humanoid (any race), lawful evil
15 (+2) 12 (+1) 13 (+1) 6 (-2) 13 (+1) 6 (-2)
Armor Class 18 (Plate)
Skills Perception +5
Hit Points 33 (6d8 + 6)
Damage Immunities Fire
Speed 30 ft.
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 15
Challenge 1 (200 XP)
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
16 (+3) 14 (+2) 12 (+1) 10 (+0) 12 (+1) 14 (+2) Keen Hearing and Smell. The Hellpup has advan-
tage on Perception checks that rely on hearing or
Senses Passive Perception 11 smell.
Languages Common
Challenge 2 (400 XP) Pack Tactics. The Hellpup has advantage on an
attack roll against a creature if at least one of itsit’s
Leader. The champion can spend its reaction to allies is within 5 ft of the creature and the ally isn’t
make a willing creature reroll a saving throw incapacitated.

Actions
Multiattack. The champion makes two melee attacks
when attacking with its greatsword.
Greatsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5
ft., one target. Hit: 10 (2d6 + 3) slashing damage.
Heavy Crossbow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +5 to
hit, range 100/400 ft., one target. Hit: 85 (1d10 + 3)
piercing damage.
Actions
Burning Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach
5 ft., one target. Hit: 57 (1d68 + 23) piercing and 7
(2d6) fire damage.
Fire Breath (1/day). The Hellpup exhales fire in a
15 ft. cone. Each creature in that area must make a
DC 12 Dexterity saving throw, taking 18 (4d6) fire
damage on a failed save, or half as much damage on a
successful one.

218
Facing Frawd
If the party chooses to follow the itinerary to the hunting
estate where Prince Frawd is located, they must contend
with the R’Aton patrols along the roads. If dealt with, it
will then be safe to send the wagons or Patience back to
Hatbury with their followers.
Patrol
A patrol of three champions on three warhorses with a
pack of four hounds (hellpups) rides along the road towar-
ds the ambush site, looking for the caravan. If the party
hides and doesn’t face the patrol, the hounds will pick up
their scent 1d6 minutes and raise the alarm, bringing the
aforementioned patrol.
For further challenge, one of the champions may sound
a hunting horn to alert an additional two champions on
their warhorses and pack of hounds within the area.
The Hamelin Lodge
Three stories of well laid stone and wood logs domi-
nates a cleared section in the middle of the forest: the
R’Aton’s hunting lodge.
The R’Aton family have maintained this hunting lodge
in the Hatbury Mountains for centuries as it serves as a
place to let their hair down and their inner beast out.
A few guards roam the outskirts, but more impor-
tantly are the two well dressed huntsmen that stretch at
the open door before transforming into rats that scurry
inside.
The R’Aton family are wererats! Likely many of their
close guards and vassals are as well. Just like rats, their
plans to join their house to that of their larger neighbour,
Muln would mean an explosive expansion of their in-
fluence. This nest of rats should be dealt with properly.
219
Prince Frawd is here to prepare for an offering to the
R’Aton family’s ancient idol, a hideous rat statue in the
caves beneath the lodge. Requiring a blood sacrifice,
Frawd intends to bring King Boric here after he has wed
Charity. He’s only been mildly waylaid thanks to the cult’s
interference, but with the gift of Patience well on her way,
he’ll soon have what he needs to rule over Muln.
L1. Lodge Exterior
The front of the lodge is watched by some fiends (a
Smoke Demon, three Hellpups and two Fat Barons)
that Frawd summoned to protect the lodge. While Frawd
is in residence they linger out front. Every hour they walk
a circuit of the building, looking for prey.
Smoke Demon
Small fiend, neutral evil
Armor Class 12
Hit Points 21 (6d6)
Speed 30 ft., fly 30 ft.
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
6 (-2) 14 (+2) 10 (+0) 10 (+0) 10 (+0) 10 (+0)
Skill Perception +2, Stealth +4
Damage Immunities Fire, Poison
Condition Immunities Poisoned
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 12
Languages Infernal
Challenge 1/2 (100 XP)
Death Burst. When a Smoke Demon dies, the zone
within 5 ft. of its corpse becomes filled with magical
darkness that lasts the end of next turn.
Actions
Multiattack. The demon makes 2 attacks
Claws. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
one target. Hit: 4 (1d4 + 2) slashing damage.
Cinder Breath (1/day). The Smoke Demon exhales
a 15 ft. cone of smoldering ash. Each creature in that
area must succeed on a DC 10 Dexterity saving throw
or be blinded until the end of the demon’s next turn.
 L2. The Hall
The interior hallway is decorated with heads mounted
on plaques. There are stags, wolves and a curious crea-
ture, something trapped halfway between human and
bear. The hallway is empty but there are three doors lea-
ding to rooms in the northwest, northeast and southwest,
along with a staircase leading up and down to the north.

L3. Kitchens (Northeast Room)

The kitchens are in constant use as most of the inha-
bitants of the lodge are ravenous creatures. One of the
cooks, Uglu, is a corpulent woman with her back to
the door. When alerted to the party’s presence she is
smart enough to realize her life is in danger. She can be
convinced with an Intimidation or Persuasion check to
reveal the following information.

DC 12: The eastmost room is an armoury and the sou-

thwest room is a workshop.
DC 18: Prince Frawd and his brothers use the downs-
tairs rooms as their true living quarters, preferring the
darker space.
DC 22: The upper floor is the lair of a red dragon
(young red dragon, SRD 288) that spends its days out
hunting, and night sleeping upon a pile of gold and jewels.
A passive Insight of 10 reveals that she is not being com-
Fat Baron pletely honest in her answer. (There is a dragon, but the
Large fiend, neutral evil ogress is lying about the dragon’s sleeping pattern as it
hunts at night.)
Armor Class 16 (Natural Armor)
Hit Points 38(4d10+ 16) If left alive, the Uglu will call for help and alert the fiends
Speed 30 ft. outside or try to rouse other occupants within the lodge.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA

20 (+5) 11 (+0) 19 (+4) 12 (+1) 10 (+0) 15 (+2)
Uglu
Skills Intimidation +6, Perception +4, Stealth +4 Large goblinoid, chaotic evil
Damage Resistances Fire
Senses Blindsight 60 ft., Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Armor Class 10 (Leather)
Perception 14 Hit Points 51 (6d10 + 18)
Languages Common, Abyssal, Infernal Speed 40 ft.
Challenge 2 (450 XP)
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
Magic Resistance. The Fat Baron has advantage
on saving throws against spells and other magical 19 (+4) 8 (-1) 16 (+3) 5(-3) 7 (-2) 7 (-2)
effects.
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 8
Action Languages Common, Goblin
Multiattack. The Fat Baron makes two melee Challenge 2 (450 XP)
attacks, or it makes one melee attack and teleports
before or after the attack. Actions
Claw. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one Spiked Greatclub. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit,
target. Hit: 9 (1d8 + 5) slashing reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 13 (2d8 + 4) bludgeoning
Teleport (3/day). The Fat Baron magically teleports, damage and 4 (1d8) piercing damage.If the target is a
along with any equipment it is wearing or carrying, up creature, it must succeed on a DC 14 Strength saving
to 60 ft. to an unoccupied space it can see. throw or be knocked prone.

220
L4: The Workshop (Southwest Room)
This room is largely taken up by a central table, upon
Juvenile Balor
Large fiend, chaotic evil
which lie several animal pelts. There are a variety of grue-
some tools hanging from the walls and several half finished
Armor Class 16 (Natural Armor)
taxidermy projects.
Hit Points 59 (7d10 + 21)
Speed 30 ft., fly 40 ft.
This room is where the wererats makes the displays and
trophies of his hunts, although Frawd uses the room as a
torture chamber when necessary. STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
18 (+4) 10 (+0) 17 (+3) 15 (+2) 11 (+0) 17 (+3)
Five of the cleaned pelts can be sold for a tidy sum of
change: three white fox pelts at 15 gp each, a bear pelt for Damage Resistances Fire, Poison, Cold, Lightning
40 gp and a rare tiger pelt for 100 gp. Senses Blindsight 120 ft., Passive Perception 13
Languages Common, Infernal
L5. The Armoury (East Room) Challenge 3 (700 XP)
This room is filled with R’Aton hunting gear and weapons
racks, mostly featuring long spears, crossbows and hunting Fire Aura. At the start of each of the balor’s turns,
knives. Several hunting traps of various sizes hang from or when a melee attack hits the balor, each creature
hooks on the wall and in the southern part of the room in a within 5 ft. takes 4 (1d8) fire damage.
circle of invocation in a summoned fiendish creature.
Actions
This room is where the R’Aton’s keep their hunting gear Multiattack. The balor makes two attacks: one with
but also where potential guards can be summoned. The its battleaxe and one with its whip.
juvenile balor here is understandably upset to be trapped Burning Battleaxe. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit,
and is ready to make a pact with the party. If they agree reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 8 (1d8 + 4) slashing + 4
on burning 500gp worth of gems, it will join the cult and (1d8) fire damage.
defend the lair. Fire Whip. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 15
ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d6 + 4) slashing and 4 (1d8)
The players can also find a locked cabinet within this room fire damage. Targets successfully hit by this attack
with a DC 16 Intelligence (Investigation) check. It can be must succeed on a DC 20 Strength saving throw or
unlocked with a DC 16 Dexterity (Thieves Tools) check be pulled up to 10 ft. toward the Balor.
or broken open with a DC 20 Strength (Athletics) check.
Inside are 20 silvered bolts, a light crossbow and three
silvered daggers.
221
L6. The Lair (Upper Floor)
At the top of the stairs there is a set of locked double
doors, beyond which no sounds can be heard. The doors
can be unlocked with a DC 14 Dexterity (Thieves Tools)
check or a DC 16 Strength (Athletics) check.
The thirty foot high room is in a state of disrepair.
Vines and moss cover the walls. Piles of broken wood
are all that remains of old furniture; perfect cover for
the rats that scurry under the wreckage as you walk in.
Rather than tiny rat eyes twinkling from among the debris
though, the glitter of gold and gems flash instead…
This is the lair of the young red dragon, Verminoth. He
had reached a satisfactory agreement with Frawd’s father
in exchange for protecting several artifacts the R’Atons
wanted stored safely away. He comes and goes as he
likes, hunting the surrounding estate grounds and his
lair is guarded by the R’Aton retainers. The rats within
this room are those that live within the hunting lodge.
For greater challenge, up to 1d4 rats can be wererats in
disguise, ready to ambush or fight the party if attacked, or
aid Verminoth if he returns early.
Each player can spend 10 minutes searching within the
room, rolling once on the following table. If all players
choose to search and roll, Verminoth arrives after the last
player has rolled.
222
Roll 1d10 Investigation Findings
1 The dragon surprises the party and uses
his breath weapon, then roll initiative
2 A trap triggered by a pressure plate; roll a
DC 16 Dexterity save causing 7d6 piercing
damage on failure or half damage.
3 A mimic (SRD 332), disguised as a piano,
barrel or boat. It contains 200 gp and a
magic ring.
4 A potion of gaseous form.
5 2 superior healing potions.
6 A clay urn with poorly scrawled “BANK” on
the outside. Found within are 225cp, 92sp,
45 gp and a toy ball.
7 2d4 gems worth 100gp each.
8 A magic item chosen by the DM.
9 A dungeon artifact chosen by the DM.
10 The character finds 100 gp, 1d6 50gp gems
and rerolls once on the table.
L7. The Warren (Basement)
The staircase leading down from the hall twists
multiple times and leads far deeper than expected. Now
deep down below the earth, an archway leads into a long
hallway covered by cobwebbed tapestries, their lower
sections stained and chewed. Four doors, one broken,
lead to other rooms. Behind you, the area under the stairs
appears to have been used as storage, as large sacks of
grain and other foodstuffs are laid against the walls. Eve-
rywhere you look rats, scurry and gnaw.
The Warren is the shared living quarters of the R’Atons
when they stay at Hamelin Lodge, which they share with
their rodent companions. At present, two of Frawd’s
brothers (wererats, SRD 327) are present in the hallway,
feasting in their rat form. When the party enters they wait
for them to cross the room, before transforming into their
hybrid forms and attacking. They are accompanied by
three giant rats (SRD 378) and a swarm of rats (SRD
390) from the southeast room and three more wererats
from the other rooms.
“Who-who is this, brothers?” snarls one of the wererats.
“Lunch!”
Secret Door to L8:
The party must make a DC 16 Intelligence (Investigation)
check to find the hidden door behind the bookcase in the
northwestern room, leading into a tunnel to the shrine
(L8).
L8. The Shrine of Mustel
The tunnel from the warren rooms leads downward
and the scent of fresh blood assaults your nose before
you reach the opening to a 60 foot tall cave. At the centre
stands a large statue of a horned wererat and a chanting
Prince Frawd at its base along with a number of fresh
carcasses displayed in a gruesome outstretched manner.
“O Mustel, bringer of poison and plenty, my thanks to
you for granting your blessing upon this servant…”
If your party has been stealthy or chosen to scope out the
cave before entry, any party member with these proficien-
cies learns the following:
Arcana. The carcasses displayed are an offering but
are also used as part of a ritualistic transformation pact.
One that has just been completed…
Investigation. Prince Frawd’s ambitions have gone
beyond that of simply expanding his family.
Religion. Mustel is a rodent god of fiendish origins
who rewards their loyal followers in transformative ways.
223
Upon entering the cave, Frawd challenges the party,
asking who they are and telling them they are about to die
before transforming. The skin of his face splits, revealing
oily grey fur as two wide horns sprout from his skull.
Prince Frawd (horned rat) is no mortal foe; a total of 6
rats (SRD 387) are scattered in the shrine when combat
starts.
The party may roll a DC 15 to spot a rat hole on the base
of the rat statue and hear the noise of multitudes of rats.
This can be automatically learned for characters with a
16 passive perception who are standing within 5 feet of
the statue.
After defeating Prince Frawd, the statue within the shrine
crumbles revealing a hidden tunnel to the surface outside
the lodge. The party can retrace their steps through the
lodge or follow this tunnel to leave.
Note for DM: Needing to spice combat up? Perhaps you
need to ice it down? Use these options to ease or increase
the combat difficulty for your players.
Lower Difficulty:
Combat starts with 4 rats scattered throughout the
shrine.
Blocking the hole at the base of the statue is perma-
nent and only takes an action to complete.
Lair Actions are treated as traits to be used a maxi-
mum of 2/day.
Destroying the statue (50 HP, AC 16) blocks further
use of the “Call the Rats” lair action.
Higher Difficulty:
Combat begins with 8 rats scattered throughout the
shrine.
Blocking the hole is only a temporary solution as the
rats gnaw a new hole in 1d4-1 rounds.
Remove the Horned Rat lair action limitation, allowing
for the same lair action to be used in back to back rounds.
Destroying the statue (50 HP, AC 16) releases the rats
hidden below, boosting the effects of the Horned Rat’s lair
actions as follows
Call the Rats. Now summons 1d6 +2 rats.
Rat Explosion. Two rats can be targeted by this Lair
action.
 attack on the same turn, the target takes an extra 9
Horned Rat (2d8) piercing damage. If the target is a creature, it
Medium Fiend, Chaotic Evil must succeed on a DC 14 Strength saving throw or
be pushed up to 10 feet away and knocked prone.
Armor Class 15 (Natural Armor)
Hit Points 68 (8d10 + 24) Actions
Speed 40 ft., climb 40 ft. Multiattack. The Horned Rat makes three attacks,
only one of which can be a claw.
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA Poisonous Claw. Melee Weapon Attack: +8 to hit,
reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 11 (2d6 + 4) slashing , it
21 (+5) 17 (+3) 18 (+4) 12 (+1) 14 (+2) 9 (-1)
must succeed on a DC 14 Constitution saving throw
or suffer 4 (1d8) poison damage and be cursed with
Saving Throws Dex +6, Con +7, Wis +5
wererat lycanthropy.
Skills Perception +6, Stealth +5
Gore. Melee Weapon Attack: +8 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
Damage Resistances Fire, Cold, Lightning
target. Hit: 13 (2d8 + 4) piercing damage.
Damage Immunities Poison
Condition Immunities Poisoned
Senses Truesight 120 ft., Passive Perception 15 Lair Actions
Languages Common, Infernal On initiative count 20 (losing initiative ties), the
Challenge Rating 7 (2,900 XP) Horned Rat takes a lair action to cause one of the fol-
lowing effects; it can’t use the same effect two rounds
Rodent Displacement. When the Horned Rat takes in a row:
damage from a spell or attack, it swiftly swaps places
with any rat he can see within 20 feet of its location. Call the Rats. From a hole in the statue 1d6 rats
This causes the rat to become the new target of the come out and appear on the battlefield.
spell or attack, while the horned rat remains unsca- Rat Explosion. One rat moves up to 10 ft. and ex-
thed and in a different location. plodes, every creature within 5 ft. must roll a DC 15
Charge. If the Horned rat moves at least 10 feet Dexterity save or suffer 2d10 poison damage.
straight toward a target and then hits it with a gore

224
Aftermath
Patience is a dish best served cold… Dead or alive,
so long as Patience made it to the High Warlock, it is
counted a success as she can now aid the cult’s plans to
topple King Boric. If dead, the Princess will be resurrec-
ted by the High Warlock as a vampire.
Frawd-ulent Alliances… Whether Prince Frawd was
slain by the party, or merely lost his ‘gifts’, King Boric no
longer deems the R’Atons of Clandgia as a strong ally and
calls off the engagement. There are rumours this may
lead to war…
A Swordid Tale... If the party manages to collect the
Sword of Souls, its use by a cultist will certainly draw
attention to the cult and shine a more public light on the
battle between the Endarkened Brotherhood and the Bro-
therhood of Light. If the party wish to use it further within
their lair, the High Warlock may turn it into a lair artifact:
The Mysterious Sovereign Sword (see page 61).
Small town spy games… If Dimble wasn’t confronted
in this adventure, he flees at the next opportunity, sensing
the danger is growing. He will spill all he knows to the
Brotherhood, but does not know the true identities of the
party. If the Sword of Souls is not in the party’s immediate
possession, he will attempt to steal it and take it with him.
“Now, my friends, we are in the endgame!” shouts the
High Warlock. “We shall not fall against the blades of
the Brotherhood! No, we will rise to rule this land! We
shall build a new world! What say you?”
As the great cheers burst forth from the assembled cult
members one figure raises a hand.
“An immediate volunteer? Yes, you shall fight at the
front lines!”
Quickly, the figure shakes their head, “I’m no good for
fighting. Do you happen to have any administrative
roles?”
“Oh yes. Me as well!” cries another. “I’m a farmer, so
will we still have farms in the new world?”
Then a third, “Is this religious stuff again? They’re
always talking about a new world, where everything is
better…”
“Enough!” cries an exacerbated High Warlock, “This
is my—our moment. I will have none of this pathetic
drivel. The new world will be whatever we want be-
cause WE will be in charge!”
“W-what if we want different thingss?” asks a quiet,
slurred voice at the back, almost too low to hear. “What
happenss when our glorious revolution is faced with
another?”
225
“You’ve had a bit too much to drink, pal,” chuckles a mus-
cular man. “This will be the end of things and it’s all going
to be grand!”
The party can advance to level 9.
Defend The Base!
At the end of the chapter, the full moon is on display
which can only mean one thing:
The violent mating courtship of one of the creatures of the
lair. So violent in fact that it has gone wild and attacked
anyone that treads too close to the vicinity of the cult. The
authorities have been notified and have sent a group of
adventurers to scout out the creature’s lair and extermi-
nate this large pest. It is time to defend their lair!
Winning condition
The objective of this special tactical combat is to elimi-
nate the threat before they reach the room containing the
secret way leading to the heart of the dungeon.
Assault team
Scout: Antauril the Zealous
Area Spellcaster: Elenis Shadowblade (advanced)
Support: Nalani Sunshimmer (advanced)
Tank: Mannak the Strong Leader
The attacker CR is 11, the defending team is CR 19.5
(14 for defenders and 5.5 for traps and artefacts).
DM may adjust if needed.
Whether the party succeeded or failed in their
defense:
the High Warlock of the Endarkened Brotherhood is too
preoccupied with the future. The big day is coming soon:
will the shadow of the Brotherhood fall upon the kingdom
or will they be outshone by the bright light by another
faction?
Antauril Elenis Shadowblade
Medium Humanoid (Half-elf), Neutral (Shadow Monk) Medium humanoid (Elf), Chaotic (Warlock)

Armor Class 16 (Unarmored Defense) Armor Class 12 (Leather Armor)

Hit Points 33 Hit Points 44 (8d8 +8)
Speed 40 ft. Speed 30 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
12 (+1) 18 (+4) 12 (+1) 10 (+0) 15 (+2) 10 (+0) 8(-1) 12(+1) 12(+1) 14(+2) 9(-1) 20(+5)

Saving Throws STR +4, DEX +7 Saving Throws WIS +2, CHA +7
Skills Acrobatics +7, Stealth +7 Skills Arcana +3, Investigation+3
Senses Blindsight 60 ft., Passive Perception 12 Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 9
Languages Common, Elvish Languages Common
Challenge 2, 450 XP Challenge 3, 700 XP

Shadow Arts. Antauril can cast spells from the fol-
lowing prepared list:
At will : minor illusion
1/day each: darkness, darkvision, pass without
trace, silence
Shadow Trapmaster (1/day). Honed by the shadows,
Anthauril’s keen eyes automatically detect the first
trap that he comes across, allowing him to identify
both its mechanism and design. He may then use his
action to disarm the trap without the need for any
additional tools.
Blessings
Zealous. On their turn, when the hero scores a criti-
cal hit with a melee weapon or reduces a creature to
0 hit points, they can make one melee weapon attack
as a bonus action.
Actions
Multiattack. Elenis can make three Forcebolt attacks
or two Forcebolt and one Psychic Explosion.
Forcebolt. Ranged Spell Attack: +9 to hit, reach
120ft., one target. Hit: 9 (1d10 + 5) force damage. The
target can be pushed up to 10 feet away from you in a
straight line.
Psychic Explosion. Each creature in a 5-foot-radius
sphere centered on that point must make a DC16 In-
telligence saving throw. Each creature receives 2d10
psychic damage on failed save.
Dagger. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5ft.,
one target. Hit: 3 (1d4 + 1) piercing damage.

Action
Multiattack. Antauril can make two unarmed strike
attacks.
Unarmed Strike. Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit,
reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d6+4) bludgeoning
damage.

Bonus Action
Unarmed Strike. Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit,
reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d6+4) bludgeoning
damage.
Shadow Step. When in dim light or darkness, Antau-
ril can teleport up to 60 feet to an unoccupied space
they can see that is also in dim light or darkness.

226
Nalani Sunshimmer Mannak
Medium humanoid (Tiefling), chaotic good (Cleric) Medium humanoid (Dwarf), chaotic good (Barbarian)

Armor Class 16 (Chain Mail) Armor Class 15 (Unarmored)

Hit Points 45 (10d8) Hit Points 65
Speed 30 ft. Speed 40 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
16 (+3) 16 (+3) 10 (+0) 12 (+1) 16 (+3) 12 (+1) 16 (+3) 12 (+1) 18 (+4) 8 (-1) 10 (+0) 8 (-1)

Saving Throws Wis +6, Cha +4 Saving Throws STR +6, CON +7
Skills Medicine +4, Religion +4 Skills Nature +2, Perception +3
Damage Resistances Fire Damage Resistances Slashing, piercing, bludgeo-
Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 15 ning
Languages Common, Infernal Senses Passive Perception 13
Challenge 3, 700 XP Languages Common, Dwarven

Life Adept. Whenever Nalani casts a spell of 1st
level or higher to restore hit points to a creature, her
healing spells are more effective, causing the creature
to regain an additional 7 HP.
Spellcasting. Senara is a 7th-level spellcaster. Her
spellcasting ability is Wisdom (spell save DC 14, +6
to hit with spell attacks). She has the following spells
prepared:
Cantrips (at will): light, sacred flame
1st level (4 slots): bless, cure wounds
2nd level (3 slots): lesser restoration, hold
person
3rd level (2 slots): spirit guardians
4th level (1 slot): freedom of movement
Careless Attacker. Mannak’s relentless attacks leave
him open to counterattack. The next attack made
against him is done with advantage.
Blessings
Strong Leader. This hero comes with 2 bandits (SRD
page 162) that move on the same initiative order as
the hero.
Actions
Multiattack. Manak makes two melee attacks.
Battleaxe. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5
ft., one target. Hit: 9 (1d8 + 4) slashing damage.

227
 Chapter 7 Control the Kingdom
Burn the Heretic
“Our time has come,” says the High Warlock gravely.
Usually his facepaint shows a broad smile, but today it is
upside down.
“Our recent activities have born unexpected fruit. The
R’Atons of Clandgia—rats that they are, hah— have de-
clared war on Boric of Muln. Now is our chance. The king
will be on the march, all eyes will be looking outward for
enemies. We will be within. The king has called a grand
muster, calling on all good citizens to fight for Mulnia. We
will infiltrate this gathering and replace the king with one
of our own!”
At this last comment, a figure in the crowd lowers his
hood.
King Boric of Muln looks around at the astonished cult,
reaching up a calloused hand to tug on his grey mous-
tache with a wicked grin and his eyes turn cloudy white
and face drops away to match that of an astonished cult
member, expression and all.
“Our doppelganger shall take the king’s place and then
we shall have all Mulnia at our beck and call.”
“You want all of us to infiltrate the army?” asks a seven-
foot-tall figure whose scaly feet stick out awkwardly from
their black robes.
The High Warlock raises an eyebrow, “Is that a pro-
blem?”
The scaly cultist shakes their head, “Ssome of usss will
have a harder time blending in with the ssoldierss,” before
gesturing towards a stiff figure who has forgotten to put
their hood up.
The music box is a portable hole with enough air for
Regal to last a week. During that week, the High Warlock
will call upon the cult’s powerful allies to create a diver-
sion in Hatbury, drawing a portion of the garrison away
from their posts. This will create a prime opportunity for
the party to infiltrate the king’s camp and gain a strategic
advantage in their mission.
The party must now decide how they want to infiltrate the
army. The following facts are common knowledge and
may help them form a plan:
King Boric is mustering at a large camp southwest of
Hatbury. Citizens can turn up and register directly with
the king’s forces.
The Hatbury Town Council is forming its own regiment
to send to war.
Officers are being recruited from the nobility.
Enlistment
If the party signs up to either the Hatbury Regiment or
one of the Royal Regiments, they must pass a DC 13
Charisma (Deception) group check to successfully sign up
and thereby gain access to the camp.
Behind Enemy Lines
If the party chooses to infiltrate the camp by stealth, sen-
tries have a 16 Passive Perception and move in groups of
three champions and two hounds (dire wolves, SRD 371).
Once inside they will have to pass DC 14 Charisma
(Deception) checks to avoid scrutiny. Any suspected spies
who are captured are brought before the Brotherhood of
Light for questioning.

The bald-headed old man looks around sheepishly. He

opens his mouth to speak, and a string of high-pitched
whistles, warbles and bubbles emerge. He looks down
glumly.

A number of cult members have turned to look at the

party, the High Warlock’s eyes included, as he directs you
to his office, “I have a special mission for you.”

As you enter the High Warlock approaches and hands

over a small music box.

“Open this when you are ready to replace the king.

Regal, our doppelganger is inside and there cannot be a
body to arouse suspicion.”

228
Champion
Medium humanoid (any race), lawful evil
Armor Class 18 (Plate)
Hit Points 33 (6d8 + 6)
Speed 30 ft.
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
16 (+3) 14 (+2) 12 (+1) 10 (+0) 12 (+1) 14 (+2)
Senses Passive Perception 11
Languages Common
Challenge 2 (400 XP)
Leader. The champion can spend its reaction to
make a willing creature reroll a saving throw
Actions
Multiattack. The champion makes two melee attacks
when attacking with its greatsword.
Greatsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5
ft., one target. Hit: 10 (2d6 + 3) slashing damage.
Heavy Crossbow. Ranged Weapon Attack: +5 to hit,
range 100/400 ft., one target. Hit: 8 (1d10 + 2) pier-
cing damage.
The King’s Guard
Upon entering the king’s camp, the party is greeted by the
sight of a pack of fierce creatures wreaking havoc upon
the soldiers. The King’s guards quickly rush to the scene
in an attempt to quell the threat, but the creatures, re-
vealed to be allies of the Endarkened Brotherhood, swiftly
retreat and disappear into the shadows just as quickly as
they launched their surprise attack.
The timing and precision of this coordinated strike is a
clear indication of the prowess and strategic planning of
the Endarkened Brotherhood, leaving the party to wonder
what other surprises they may have in store.
Note to DM: You may change the description to highlight
the chosen allies the party enlisted during the campaign
such as the Restless, the Nature’s Wrath or others.
The party must make an Intelligence (Investigation) check
to discover the following information around the camp
and enable them to access the King:
DC 10:
The King’s marquee is guarded by four sentries: Fauza
Slip, Nervy Greenhorn, Affy Borudd and Arrow Stickler.
If they can be prevented from showing up, the party
can take their place.
229
DC 12:
Fauza’s getting up in years for a knight. He’d forget
where the loo was if he wasn’t running there so often.
Nervy Greenhorn is still wet around the ears. What
good is a knight who lacks confidence? Last I heard he
was still muttering inspiring phrases to himself behind
the stables.Affy Borudd is a veteran ‘round here. A vete-
ran at dice and cards! Surprising given his short attention.
He’s over by the mess tables most likely…
Arrow Stickler? Now he’s a dedicated knight. Never
known him to willingly miss his watch or have a hair out
of place. He’s probably still preening in his tent now!
DC 14:
You overhear some guards discuss how they played a
prank on Fauza last week convincing him he was on the
wrong watch and made him late.
The party could do the same with a DC 14 Charisma
(Deception) check.
The same guards are also chuckling about how Nervy
was just ordered around by the stablehand for bothering
the horses.
He could likely be ordered to take the night off with a DC
16 Charisma (Intimidation) check.
DC 16:
At the mess tables, you overhear Affy loudly grumbling
that unless he get’s in another round or three that he’ll be
bored for the rest of the watch.
He could be distracted by a DC 18 Charisma (Perfor-
mance) check to entertain him or taken for a sizable
bet (like his uniform) with a DC 17 Dexterity (Sleight of
Hand) check.
DC 18:
Three guards are whispering amongst themselves
about how best to knock Arrow down a peg. One of them
has a container of hair and moustache wax that has been
tampered with green hair dye. If they could get it into
Arrow’s tent and get him to use it…
The party can convince or order the guards to give them
the wax with a DC 18 Charisma (Persuasion or Intimida-
tion) check. Getting Affy to use the wax would take a DC
20 Persuasion or Deception check, otherwise the wax
could be switched with a DC 22 Sleight of Hand check.
 Ruby
Medium Humanoid, Lawful

Armor Class 15 (Mage Armor)

Hit Points 63 (14d8)
Speed 30 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA

10 (+0) 14 (+2) 10 (+0) 18 (+4) 16 (+3) 14 (+2)

Saving Throws INT +6, WIS +4

Skills Arcana +6, History +6
Senses Passive Perception 12
Languages Common
Challenge Rating 6 (2,300 XP)

Heart of the Righteous. Ruby regains 10 hit points at

Allow the party time to enact a plan and figure out how to
deal with the marquee sentries. Should they successfully
replace the sentries, they will find the king occupied. In-
side the marquee tent being entertained by a jester, King
Boric is speaking with a familiar red-haired woman. Party
members may listen into their conversation with a DC 16
Wisdom (Perception) check.
“Your Majesty, the Brotherhood is of course at your
disposal. We are happy to take our crusade into Clandgia,
especially given the…troubling rumours we have heard
about the R’Atons.
However, I must bring to your attention to more recent
news. There are reports that the insidious cult, the very
same that has been undermining your rule for so long, is
here. In your very camp!”
It is likely they seek to sabotage your war effort or make
an attempt upon your life. We shall stop them. Even now
the Brotherhood calls upon an agent of the divine, a see-
ker of evil who will root out these vermin. They will arrive
within the hour.”
the start of her turn. If Ruby takes fire or necrotic da-
mage, this trait doesn’t function at the start of Ruby’s
next turn. Ruby dies only if she starts her turn with 0
hit points and doesn’t regenerate.
Spellcasting. Ruby is a 8th-level spellcaster. Her
spellcasting ability is Intelligence (spell save DC 14,
+6 to hit with spell attacks). Ruby has the following
wizard spells prepared:
Cantrips (at will): blade ward, fire bolt, light, mage
hand
1st level (4 slots): mage armor, magic missile,
shield
2nd level (3 slots): misty step
3rd level (3 slots): fireball
4th level (2 slots): greater invisibility, wall of fire
Actions
Dagger. Melee or Ranged Weapon Attack: +5 to hit,
reach 5 ft. or range 20/60 ft., one target. Hit: 4 (1d4 +
2) piercing damage.

A sentry bell rings across the camp, with an ethereal,

silvery peal. Whatever the Brotherhood is up to, it has
begun. The party can stop the Brotherhood’s plan from
coming to fruition by deviating from the main mission and
heading to their camp.

If the party chooses to prioritize their main mission, they

can attack the King (gladiator, SRD 399) and Scarlet (ap-
prentice assassin with 63 HP). They will fight furiously
and in 1d6 turns both Rouge (champion with 63 HP) and
Ruby will arrive to aid their sister and the King.

Proceed to Checkmate the King if the party succeeds in

their fight against the sisters and king.

230
Brotherhood’s Camp
The Brotherhood’s camp is orderly and guarded by five The Astralsphinx was summoned by the Red Sisters the
cult fanatics who will try to stop anyone from entering previous evening and they have been spreading word of
during the ritual. A ring of tents disguises a ritual circle. their intent to summon it ever since. The Astralsphinx is a
Bundles of smouldering herbs lie on an orbit around a terrifying foe to evildoers and quickly identifies an object
central fire while three cult fanatics chant rhythmically. in its prey’s possession that it can track with locate object.
As soon as the party moves to interrupt the ritual, they are
attacked by a large winged hound, an Astralsphinx, which K1 Brotherhood Camp
has cast greater invisibility on itself to ambush the party. K2 Hospital
K3 Mess Hall
K4 King’s tent

231
Astralsphinx Tactics
Large Celestial, lawful good
The Astralsphinx casts greater invisibility on itself and
Armor Class 18 (Natural Armor)
will remain invisible for as long as possible, attacking
Hit Points 136 (16d10 + 48)
with its claws and using its legendary actions to focus on
Speed 40 ft., fly 60 ft.
the spellcasters or the characters with evil alignment.
As the Astralsphinx nears death, it will taunt the party.
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
18 (+4) 14 (+2) 16 (+3) 18 (+4) 18 (+4) 18 (+4) “Forsaken fools, deceivers are so easily deceived. You
should not have come here. Now shall you be revealed.”
Saving Throws DEX +6, CON +7, WIS +8, CHA +8
Skills Arcana +12, History +12, Perception +8, Reli- Multiple figures appear around the tent walls, including
gion +12 more than one of a familiar red-haired woman. An 18 Pas-
Damage Resistance: Bludgeoning, piercing, and sive Perception confirms this isn’t an illusion, but multi-
slashing from nonmagical attacks ples with the same face, with a large burn scar on one.
Damage immmunities Psychic, radiant
Senses truesight 120 ft., passive Perception 18
Languages all, telepathy 120 ft.
Challenge 12 (8400 XP)

Master of Light. The Astralsphinx is able to maintain

concentration on the moonbeam spell even when
casting another spell that requires concentration.
Spellcasting. The Astralsphinx is an 8th-level spell-
caster. Its spellcasting ability is Intelligence (spell
save DC 16, +8 to hit with spell attacks). It requires
no material components to cast its spells. The Astrals-
phinx has the following wizard spells prepared:
Cantrips (at will): mage hand, minor illusion,
prestidigitation
1st level (4 slots): detect magic, identify, shield
2nd level (3 slots): darkness, locate object, moo
beam
3rd level (2 slots): dispel magic, remove curse, to
gues
4th level (2 slots): banishment, greater invisibility

Actions
Multiattack. The creature makes two claw attacks.
Claw. Melee Weapon Attack: +8 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
target. Hit: 13 (2d8 + 4) slashing damage.

Legendary Actions
The Astralsphinx can take 3 legendary actions, choo-
sing from the options below. Only one legendary ac-
tion option can be used at a time and only at the end
of another creature’s turn. The Astralsphinx regains
spent legendary actions at the start of its turn.
Claw Attack. The creature makes one claw attack.
Moonbeam (Costs 2 Actions). The Astralsphinx
casts moonbeam or may move the beam as described
in the spell.
Teleport (Costs 2 Actions). The Astralsphinx magi-
cally teleports, along with any equipment it is wearing
or carrying, up to 120 feet to an unoccupied space it
can see.

232
Seize the King; Seize the Kingdom Upon reaching the tent, the players are met with Rouge
and her sisters, Ruby and Scarlet.
As the Astralsphinx falls, the Red Sisters flee to warn the
You see the familiar red hair bob between two tents
king. The camp is in an uproar and the party must reach
and round the corner to find her brought to bay, breathing
the king before the Sisters do.
heavily. As you approach the woman, with her scarred
face, two other identical figures emerge from the surroun-
Reach the King ding tents. Three women, clearly sisters, each with the
same air of confidence.
The party must reach the King’s tent, ideally before the
sisters warn him. This is presented as a cinematic dash
“At last we see each other,” says Ruby.
through the camp. This Skill Challenge requires 5 suc-
cesses before 3 failures are accrued.
“How could I forget them?” Growls Rouge and Scarlet
The party will reach the tent regardless, but how pre-
nods.
pared the Red Sisters are depends on how many failures
they accrue.
In tandem, “Let’s end this.”
Each player may use any skills they are proficient with,
but the party may not use the same skill more than once.
At the DM’s discretion, expending spell slots to cast ap-
Failures
• No failures: Rouge (champion with 63 HP) will
propriate spells can count as a success.
stand and fight with Scarlet (apprentice assassin
Players should get creative with their skills, but several
with 63 HP) and Ruby joining her.
possible options are laid out below. More unusual or unli-
• One failure: The sisters have the following combat
kely uses will have a higher DC.
tactics ready.
Ruby has greater invisibility ready to cast on
Skill Use(s) Recommended Rouge, who darts off to the side with her hand
DC crossbow.
Acrobatics Duck through tents 15 • Two failures: The sisters have the following com-
and under carts. bat tactics ready.
Animal Han- Release and agitate 16 The party must roll a DC 14 Perception group
dling the horses in the check or be surprised. If surprised: Scarlet
stable to stampede initiates combat attacking any surprised party
through the camp members and then fighting her way to rejoin her
sisters.
Athletics Shove your way 14 Ruby has greater invisibility readied to cast on
through the crowds. Rouge, who darts off to the side with her hand
Deception Cry out orders to 17 crossbow.
send soldiers off in
the opposite direc-
tion with a false lead.
Intimidation Cow anxious sol- 14
diers and bully them
out of your way.
Perception Try to spot the red 16
headed woman in
the confusion.
Sleight of Set fire to a tent to 18
Hand split guard’s atten-
tion
Stealth Try to sneak past 17
crowds of confused
soldiers without
arousing suspicion.
Survival Double back on your 19
tracks to increase
confusion with the
chasing soldiers

233

Checkmate the King
After the battle, now is the time to replace King Boric
with Regal.
If the party battled through the Brotherhood’s camp and
the King had remained unalerted by the Red Sisters, he
is instead found in the tent surveying his war map as his
jester, Wiz:
The ringing of soft bells follows the king’s jester as he
cavorts around the tent on his
hands and knees and it takes the King a moment to
acknowledge you.
“Who are you? Where are those missing bloody sen-
tries? I’ll have their
Hides for this…” His eyes narrow, “You’re no soldiers of
mine… are you the brains behind all of this?!”
“Actually, I am ,” says the Jester, standing up and remo-
ving his jester’s hat.
“This has been a long time coming, King Boric. I am
the High Warlock of the Endarkened Brotherhood. And
you are finished.”
As you release Regal from his box there is a squelching
sound as he assumes the form of King Boric, Monarch of
Muln. The king’s eyes widen in horror and he screams as
the doppelganger sinks a knife into his heart.
By the time you emerge to take up positions as sentries
to the “king”, the body has been safely stowed in the box,
now in the High Warlock’s possession. Several messages
are sent and dignitaries come and go as the king’s new
orders are dispatched and if anyone is surprised by the
monarch’s change of heart, they show no sign of it.
234
Heavy is the Head
that Wears the Clown
As the army begins to march, those left behind gather
around the King’s tent. Few could be mistaken for noble
warriors of Muln, but the creatures of the Endarkened
Brotherhood have won, why try to blend in?
The High Warlock gathers the party to him and they
stand before the assembled cult.
“My…friends! We are victorious! We have fought hard
and under my leadership we now command the might of
Muln. This continent is ours for the taking and already we
make changes in pursuit of a better world! I am proud to
have led you this far, but you all deserve great applause!”
The High Warlock pauses for applause, of which there is
a smattering.
A bullish figure elbows its way forward to shouts and
point at the party, “You didn’t do nuffink! They did!” More
than a few heads nod in agreement.
“Now hold on…” snarls the High Warlock, but a short
figure in a too-long robe drowns him out.
“OI! YOU SPEAK WITH SUM RESPEC’! THAT
THERE’S THE NEW KING YOOR INSULTIN’!”
The High Warlock looks torn between correcting or
agreeing with his supporter as further discussion rises
through the ranks:
“The High Warlock took none of the risks, why’s he in
charge?”
“The High Warlock is the man with the plan, what does
it matter if he’s dressed as a
Clown?”
The chorus grows but the same questions arise, should
the High Warlock lead the cult… Or should you?
It is now that a bloodied figure crawls towards the
noisy group.
«Oh lord of light, please hear my call,» Rouge gasps,
her voice weak and strained. «You can’t allow what is hap-
pening here. I give my life to you and I beg for your divine
intervention.»
As Rouge takes her last breath, the party witnesses the
music box shatter and the body of the king emerges, his
glowing form a stark contrast to the gloomy surroundings.
Waves of formidable aura burst forth, crashing over eve-
ryone in attendance before the divine pressure renders
everyone unconscious.
Before the party regains consciousness, they gain the to cast and vocalize, it becomes apparent that he is utterly
benefit of a long rest. powerless and falls limp soon after.

Consciousness takes hold for all of you before everyone
else. Refreshed, the warm glow that had knocked you out
seems to have also rejuvenated you.
King no more, a glowing divine creature reaches out
and grabs the High Warlock by the neck. The warlock’s
eyes bulge in fear as the glowing form pulses with divine
power and begins to burn away at his soul.
The High Warlock attempts to resist but as he struggles
King Boric has transformed into an avatar of light. The
party must make a choice. Should they act immediately
and try to stop the avatar, or let events unfold as they
may? The decision is theirs to make. Will they intervene,
or let fate take its course?
Depending on the choice of the players the High Warlock
is rendered unconscious or dead, then the avatar turns to
the players. It is time for the final fight.

Avatar of light
Large Celestial, lawful good Actions
Multiattack. The avatar of light makes two attacks,
Armor Class 16 (natural armor) one with its morningstar and one with its fist.
Hit Points 210 (20d10 + 100) Morningstar. Melee Weapon Attack: +11 to hit, reach
Speed 40 ft., fly 80 ft., 5 ft., one target. Hit: 15 (3d6 + 6) piercing damage
plus 22 (5d8) radiant damage.
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA Fist of Remorse. Melee Weapon Attack: +11 to hit,
reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 14 (1d10 + 6) bludgeoning
22(+6) 20(+5) 20(+5) 19(+4) 22(+6) 25(+5)
damage plus 22 (5d8) radiant damage. Target hit is
pushed away up 10 ft. by this attack and must suc-
Saving Throws CON +12, WIS +13, CHA +12
ceed on a DC 20 Wisdom saving throw or must spend
Skills Perception +11
its reaction to attack an ally if they can.
Damage Resistance: Radiant; bludgeoning, piercing,
and slashing from nonmagical attacks
Condition Immunities Charmed, exhaustion, frighte-
Legendary Actions
The avatar of light can take 3 legendary actions, choo-
ned
sing from the options below. Only one legendary ac-
Senses Truesight 120 ft., Passive Perception 21
tion option can be used at a time and only at the end
Languages All, Telepathy 120 ft.
of another creature’s turn. The avatar of light regains
Challenge 16 (15,000 XP)
all spent legendary actions at the start of its turn.
Angelic Weapons. The avatar of light’s weapon
Guiding Bolt. The avatar of light casts a guiding bolt
attacks are magical. When the avatar of light hits with
as a level 1 spell.
any weapon, the weapon deals an extra 5d8 radiant
Healing touch. Target creature within 5 ft. re-
damage (included in the attacks).
gains a number of hit points equal to 1d8 + 6 and is
Divine Awareness. The avatar of light knows if it
freed from any curse, disease, poison, blindness, or
hears a lie.
deafness. This capacity has no effect on undead or
Innate Spellcasting. The avatar of light’s spellcasting
constructs.
ability is Charisma (spell save DC 20, +12 to hit with
Moonbeam (Costs 2 Actions). The avatar of light
spell attacks). The avatar of light can innately cast the
casts moonbeam or moves the beam as described in
following spells, requiring no material components:
the spell.
At will: detect evil and good, moonbeam, guidind
Power Wings (Costs 2 Actions). The avatar of light
bolt
beats its wings. Each creature within 10 feet of the
3/day each: blade barrier, dispel evil and good,
avatar of light must succeed on a DC 19 Dexterity sa-
raise dead, sunbeam
ving throw or take 13 (2d6 + 6) bludgeoning damage,
Legendary Resistance (3/Day). If the avatar of
pushed away 10 ft. and be knocked prone.
light fails a saving throw, it can choose to succeed
instead.

235
Aftermath
The party will advance to level 10.

Once they or the High Warlock has had a chance to

review the Mulnian treasury, each character receives a
legendary or very rare magic item.

This may be a good time to retire their characters, as

they are left to rule Muln or serve the High Warlock in
a bureaucratic capacity, but it can also be the beginning
of a new adventure. Perhaps the Brotherhood of Light
remains a thorn in your side and there is still a war with
Clandgia to settle. Perhaps some of the High Warlock’s
deals with dark power have come due? Ultimately though,
this chapter of the story is over and the party can cele-
brate their victory.

236