Curse of the

Sunken Tower

homebrew

Uncover the secrets of the cursed tower and face its dark powers
in this thrilling D&D adventure for 4-6 players of levels 1-3.

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 Legal Stuff
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W
elcome to Curse of the Sunken Tower,
a D&D 5E adventure designed for 4-6
players of Level 1-3. We are excited to
present this adventure, which has been
carefully crafted to provide an exciting
and engaging experience for both new
and experienced players.
At its core, Curse of the Sunken Tower is an
introduction to the city of Raven's Rest, a bustling
hub of adventure and intrigue. We have worked hard
to create a basic adventure that will bring GMs and
players into this vibrant world, setting the stage for
countless adventures to come. Our team of dedicated
designers and writers has poured countless hours into
crafting a detailed and immersive world, complete with
compelling characters, intricate plotlines, and exciting
combat encounters.
In Curse of the Sunken Tower, the players will be
tasked with investigating the mysterious appearance
of a large tower in the Copper Sprawl. As they delve
deeper into the tower's secrets, they will uncover a plot
that threatens to destroy Raven's Rest and unleash a
terrible evil upon the land. Along the way, they will face
deadly foes (for levels 1-3), explore the mysterious tower,
all in the name of justice and adventure.
The Curse of the Sunken Tower can be played in a
single 4-6 hour session, or over two or three smaller
sessions. It is an introductory adventure to ease player’s
introduction to Raven’s Rest.
We are incredibly proud of the work that has gone
into creating Curse of the Sunken Tower, and we
are confident that it will provide hours of fun and
excitement for both GMs and players. Whether you are
a seasoned adventurer or just starting out on your first
quest, we hope that this adventure will provide you with
an unforgettable experience.
Thank you for choosing Curse of the Sunken Tower,
and we look forward to hearing about your adventures
in Raven's Rest!


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 Table of Contents
Curse of the Sunken Tower

Introduction 5
Adventure Background 5
Setting 5
Read Aloud Text 5
NPCs 5
The Curse of the Tower 6
Adventure Summary 6
Adventure Hooks 6
ACT 1: The Tower 6
ACT 2: Inside the Tower 11
ACT 3: Escaping the Tower 15
Further Adventures 15
Monsters 16


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Curse of the
Sunken Tower
Introduction
Welcome to Curse of the Sunken Tower, a D&D 5E
adventure designed for 4-6 players of levels 1-3. In this
adventure, players will journey to the city of Raven’s
Rest, a bustling hub of trade and commerce. However,
a mysterious tower has recently surfaced in the city’s
Copper Sprawl. The Raven’s Rest guard is at a loss, and
the city’s citizens are fearful. It’s up to the players to
uncover the truth behind the Sunken Tower and put an
end to the evil lurking within.
As the players enter the city, they can see that
something is amiss. The streets are quiet, and the
usually bustling markets are deserted. The people look
worried and afraid. When asked about the tower, they
lower their voices and speak of strange noises, flickering
lights, and eerie shadows moving within its walls.
The tower has defied all attempts at entry, and the city
guard has been unable to discover its secrets or break
the curse that plagues the city. The fate of Raven’s Rest
hangs in the balance, and the people are counting on the
players to unravel the mystery of the cursed tower and
restore the city to its former glory.
Are you ready to take on this challenge, to face the
dangers and mysteries of the tower, and to save the
people of Raven’s Rest? The adventure begins now.
Adventure Background
For generations, the city of Raven’s Rest has been a
prosperous trading hub, known for its bustling markets
and rich culture. However, all of that changed when
a mysterious tower appeared in the middle of the city
overnight.
No one knows where the tower came from, or why
it appeared in the city. Despite many attempts to enter
the tower, no one has been successful, and the tower
remains shrouded in mystery. Strange things have been
happening in the city since the tower appeared - crops
withering, people falling ill, and strange beasts roaming
the streets at night.
The city guard has been unable to explain or resolve
these issues, and the people of Raven’s Rest are growing
increasingly fearful. In desperation, they have turned to
outsiders - adventurers - for help.
It is believed that the tower is cursed, and that its
curse is affecting the entire city. The party has been
hired by the city guard to investigate the tower and
discover its secrets, in the hopes of lifting the curse and
restoring Raven’s Rest to its former glory.
As the party enters the tower, they will encounter
a variety of challenges, from traps and monsters to
puzzles and mysteries. The fate of Raven’s Rest rests
in their hands, and they must use all of their skills and
knowledge to overcome the tower’s dangers and uncover
its secrets.
Setting
Raven’s Rest is a city that bustles with activity and is
located on the edge of a large body of water. It is built on
the banks of a wide, swift-flowing river, and its walls are
made of grey stone, standing tall and impressive.
The streets of Raven’s Rest are crowded with
merchants and tradesmen, and the air is filled with the
sound of clanging hammers and the shouts of hawkers
selling their wares. Within the city walls, you can find all
manner of shops and businesses. There are blacksmiths,
armorers, and leatherworkers, as well as taverns and
inns where travelers can rest and share tales of their
adventures.
The city is also home to a diverse population of people,
including humans, elves, dwarves, and even some exotic
races like gnomes and halflings. Each group has its own
distinct culture, and the city is a melting pot of different
traditions and beliefs.
Despite its many charms, Raven’s Rest is not without
its dangers. The city is home to a variety of thieves and
cutpurses, as well as street brawls and other forms of
violence. It is a place where a traveler must always keep
their wits about them. However, the city guard works
hard to maintain law and order, and they are always on
the lookout for trouble.
For a comprehensive guide to Raven’s Rest, you
may want to pick up Mysteries and Marvels of Raven’s
Rest: A Guide to Adventure and Exploration from the
Dungeon Masters Guild.
The cursed tower has appeared in the heart of the
city, casting a dark shadow over Raven’s Rest. The tower
has brought misfortune and chaos to the city, and its
appearance has made the people fearful and uncertain.
As the adventurers enter the city, they will need to
navigate its bustling streets and alleys, interacting with
the diverse and vibrant population, and discovering the
secrets that have brought the curse upon the city.
Read Aloud Text
This is an example of read aloud text.
Read aloud text is text that is intended to be read out
loud by the Game Master to the players during a game
session. It is used to convey important information, such
as setting descriptions, quest details, and important plot
points, in a way that engages and immerses the players
in the story. Read aloud text is often written in a more
descriptive and evocative style than other parts of the
adventure or campaign, and is designed to draw the
players into the world and make them feel like they are a
part of the story.
The GM (or Game Master) should read read aloud
text clearly and slowly, and should make an effort to
infuse the text with emotion and energy to make it as
engaging as possible.
Non-Player Characters
(NPCs)
Captain Valin Thorne
The grizzled leader of the city guard in Raven’s Rest,
Captain Thorne is a no-nonsense kind of person who
takes his duty very seriously. He has been investigating
the cursed tower and is at a loss for how to deal with
it. He is happy to provide the adventurers with any

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 information he has and is willing to work with them to
break the curse.
Zariah the Seer
A mysterious and wise old woman, Zariah is known
throughout Raven’s Rest as a powerful seer who can
see the future. She lives in a small cottage on the
outskirts of the city, and many people come to her
seeking guidance and advice. Zariah is rumored to
have knowledge of the cursed tower and may be able to
provide the adventurers with a clue to its secrets.
Garrett the Thief
Garrett is a charming and cunning thief who makes
his living on the streets of Raven’s Rest. He has a
network of informants and can provide the adventurers
with information about the city’s underworld. He is
also a skilled lock-picker and may be able to help the
adventurers gain entry to the tower.
Zaxaron, the Corrupter
A dark and malevolent entity that is rumored to reside
within the cursed tower. It is said to be the source of the
curse that has befallen Raven’s Rest, and many believe
that it must be destroyed to break the curse. However,
little is known about the Zaxaron, and it may be more
powerful than anyone realizes.
The Curse of the Tower
Unbeknownst to almost everyone, the curse is related
to a dark ritual. The tower was built by a cult who were
attempting to summon a powerful demon, Zaxaron the
Corrupter. The ritual went awry, and the curse is the
result of the entity’s partial manifestation.
The players need to stop the cultists and kill Zaxaron’s
manifestation to lift the curse.
Adventure Summary
ACT 1: The Tower Appears
The party is hired by the city guard to investigate a
strange tower that has suddenly appeared in the middle
of the city. No one knows how it got there or what’s
inside.
ACT 2: Climbing the Tower
The party must make their way up and down the
tower, fighting off monsters and avoiding traps on each
level. Each level presents a new challenge. Along the
way, the party will discover clues about the curse that
plagues the tower and the identity of the people who
created it.
ACT 3: Confronting the Curse
At the bottom of the tower, the party will confront the
source of the curse: Zaxaron the Corrupter, in a half-
finished summoning.
The party must defeat Zaxaron and kill the cultists
to break the curse on the tower. Once they succeed, the
mist surrounding the tower will dissipate, and the tower
will disappear, leaving behind only a pile of rubble.
The city will be saved, and the party will be hailed as
(minor) heroes.

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Adventure Hooks
As a GM, it’s important to have a few different hooks
in your pocket to draw players into the adventure. Here
are some ideas for using the alternative adventure
hooks for the Cursed Tower:
The Scholar’s Request. The players are approached by
a scholar who has been studying the ancient texts that
refer to the Cursed Tower. The scholar believes that the
tower holds valuable information and artifacts, but is
unable to enter it due to the curse. The party is hired to
enter the tower and retrieve the valuable information
and artifacts.
The Missing Heirloom. A wealthy merchant hires the
party to retrieve a valuable family heirloom that was
stolen from his home by a group of thieves. The thieves
have taken the heirloom into the Cursed Tower, and the
party must enter the tower to retrieve it.
The Strange Lights. Strange lights and sounds have
been emanating from the tower at night, and the party
has been hired by the local authorities to investigate.
The players must enter the tower to find the source of
the disturbance and put a stop to it.
The Alchemist’s Request. The players are approached
by an alchemist who needs a rare ingredient that can
only be found inside the Cursed Tower. The alchemist
promises a handsome reward for the party’s services,
but warns them of the danger that lies within the tower.
The Mysterious Stranger. The party is approached by
a mysterious stranger who claims to have knowledge of
a great treasure hidden within the Cursed Tower. The
stranger offers to split the treasure with the party if they
help him retrieve it, but the players soon realize that the
stranger may have his own dark motives for entering the
tower.
ACT 1: Entering the Tower
As the party travels through the bustling city of
Raven’s Rest, they find themselves in the Copper
Sprawl. The Copper Sprawl is the city’s southwestern
neighborhood, known for its crowded and noisy streets,
its factories, and its crowded tenements. This is where
Raven’s Rest’s working class lives and works, eking
out a living in the city’s bustling factories and crowded
tenements. Despite its rough reputation, Copper Sprawl
is also a place of great energy and vitality, filled with
street vendors, street performers, and the sounds of
laughter and music.
It isn’t long after entering the Sprawl, however, that
they notice a commotion in the Iron Market. A group of
people have gathered, pointing and murmuring in awe
and fear at the sight before them. There, in the center
of the market, is a tall tower made of black stone. Its
surface is covered in strange, pulsating runes that seem
to shift and writhe in the sunlight.
The tower rises from the ground like a dark, foreboding
sentinel, casting a long shadow over the surrounding
buildings. Its walls are made of black stone, and it
stands at least 30 feet tall. It appears to be old, with
cracks and weathered spots marking its surface, yet it
is also oddly well-preserved. The entrance to the tower
 is a simple wooden door, which seems to be the only Will you investigate the tower and discover its
way in or out. As you approach the tower, you can feel a secrets? The fate of our city may depend on it.’
faint humming sensation emanating from within, as if
the very air around it was charged with some unknown
The city council has tasked Valin with investigating
energy.
the tower and discovering its secrets. Valin believes
the party may be able to help, given their reputation for
As you get closer to the tower, you realize that it is
being brave and capable adventurers. He implores them
shorter than you first thought. In fact, it appears
to investigate the tower and report back anything they
to go down into the ground as well, though you
discover.
cannot tell how deep it might go. The stones that
The party should feel a sense of urgency and mystery
make up the tower seem to darken as you follow
surrounding the tower. They should be intrigued by
their descent, until they fade into a deep, inky
the strange runes on the surface of the tower and
blackness. There is no visible entrance to this
the reports of strange happenings in the city. Captain
subterranean portion of the tower, nor is there any
Valin should come across as a competent and serious
evidence of how it might be accessed. The only
authority figure, but also a bit desperate for help. The
clue to its existence is a slight, damp breeze that
party should feel like they are the only ones who can
seems to be coming from somewhere below.
solve this mystery and that they have an important
mission to undertake.
As the party approaches, they see that the tower is Note. Now, experienced players might wonder why
surrounded by a ring of guards, who are keeping the Valin would approach a party of 1st level adventurers
curious onlookers at bay. One of the guards notices to deal with what is obviously a major problem. Valin
the party and approaches them, introducing himself won’t tell them this, but he does so because they are the
as Captain Valin. He explains that the tower appeared only ones available to him. The Raven’s Rest city guard
mysteriously in the middle of the city just a few days ago is understaffed and overworked, and they don’t have the
and that no one has been able to enter it or even see resources to investigate the tower themselves.
inside. What Valin will say is that he has heard of the
party’s reputation for getting things done, even at their
relatively low level (total nonsense, of course). Basically,
As you listen to Valin’s words, a shiver runs down your
Valin is simply desperate and willing to enlist anyone
spine. His voice is grave, and his eyes dart back and
who is willing to help, regardless of their experience or
forth as he speaks.
abilities. It doesn’t hurt that the players are expendable,
of course.
‘Since the tower appeared, strange things have been
Valin is authorized to offer a reward of up to 100 gp
happening in the city,’ he says. ‘People have been
per party member for a successful conclusion to this
falling ill, experiencing nightmares, and reporting
issue.
strange creatures lurking in the shadows. We don’t
know what’s causing it, but we suspect the tower
may be behind it all. That’s why we need your help.


7
 Investigating the Tower
As the players listen to Valin’s briefing, he explains
that while he is eager for them to enter the tower and
begin their investigation, he also understands that they
may want to gather more information first. He mentions
two people who may be of help: Zariah the Seer and
Garrett the Thief.

“If you’re looking for more information about the tower,”

Valin says, “you might want to speak to Zariah the Seer.
She’s a wise old woman who lives on the outskirts of
the city. Many people come to her for guidance and
advice, and she may have knowledge of the cursed
tower.”

Valin then continues, “If you’re interested in the

city’s underworld, you might want to seek out Garrett
the Thief. He’s a charming and cunning rogue who
knows the streets of Raven’s Rest like the back of his
hand. He may be able to provide you with information
about the tower or help you gain entry if needed.”

Valin then hands the players a map with the locations

of Zariah’s cottage and Garrett’s usual hangout marked,
and tells them to be careful and keep a low profile, as
there are some dangerous elements in the city who may
not take kindly to outsiders poking their noses around.

Zariah the Seer

As the party sets out to investigate the mysterious
tower, they make their way to the outskirts of Raven’s
Rest to find Zariah the Seer. After navigating through
winding roads and overgrown paths, they finally come
across a small cottage, seemingly untouched by the
passage of time. The cottage is surrounded by a small
garden filled with herbs and flowers, and a faint aroma
of incense drifts through the air.
As they approach the cottage, they see an old woman
sitting on the porch, her eyes closed in deep meditation.
She is dressed in a simple robe and a shawl draped
over her shoulders, and her hair is long and gray, falling
in loose waves down her back. When she senses their
presence, she opens her eyes and looks up at them with
a serene expression.

“I’ve been expecting you,” she says in a voice

that is soft and musical. “I am Zariah, the Seer.
What brings you to my humble abode?”

Zariah is a mysterious figure, shrouded in a veil of

magic and wisdom. She is motivated by a desire to
help others and to uncover the secrets of the universe.
She knows that the cursed tower is the result of a dark
ritual gone wrong, and that it is inhabited by dangerous
creatures and powerful magic.
If the players interact with Zariah and ask about her
knowledge of the tower, she will reveal the following:

Zariah looks at you with knowing eyes and says, “The

cursed tower you seek was the site of a dark ritual
performed by a group of cultists or dark wizards. They
were trying to summon a powerful demon or evil entity,
but the ritual went awry, and the curse is the result of
the entity’s partial manifestation.”

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 Zariah goes on to explain that the ritual performed
by the dark wizards or cultists went terribly wrong,
causing the curse to befall the tower and causing it
to sink into the ground. She tells you that the curse
is a result of a powerful entity’s partial manifestation,
and that it is the source of the strange occurrences in
Raven’s Rest since the tower’s appearance.

She reveals that the curse has had a profound effect

on the city, causing many to fall ill and experience
unsettling nightmares, with reports of bizarre and
frightening creatures seen lurking in the shadows.

“I’ve also heard rumours that the cultists or dark

wizards who performed the ritual are still alive
and hiding in Raven’s Rest. They may know
something about how to lift the curse.”

As the players prepare to leave, Zariah places a hand

on each of their shoulders and looks deep into their eyes.

“Remember, the path ahead is dark and dangerous,”

she says. “But if you remain true to your hearts and
your cause, you will find the answers you seek.”

With that, she bids them farewell and they continue

on their journey, filled with a newfound sense of purpose
and determination.

Garrett the Thief

Garrett the Thief can be found in a seedy tavern called
The Rusty Hook. The tavern is located in the less-than-
desirable part of the city, and it’s clear that Garrett is
a regular there. As the players enter the tavern, they
see Garrett sitting at a table with a group of unsavory
characters, all of whom seem to be hanging on his every
word. Garrett is a charming and charismatic figure who
knows how to work a crowd.
When the players approach him, he welcomes them
warmly and offers to buy them a round of drinks. He
then leans in and whispers to them that he knows
they’re looking for information about the tower. He tells
them that he has connections in the city’s underworld
and that he may be able to help them. However, he
warns them that his help doesn’t come cheap and that
they’ll have to do him a favor in return.
Garrett tells the players that a rival thief has stolen an
important item from him and he needs it back. The item
is a small, ornate box that contains a valuable gemstone.
Garrett believes that the thief is hiding out in a nearby
abandoned warehouse, and he wants the players to
retrieve the box and return it to him. Once they have
done this, he will help them with their quest to enter the
tower.

As you chat with Garrett over drinks in the

Rusty Anchor, he leans in and lowers his voice
conspiratorially. “Look, I know a way into that cursed
tower, but it’s not gonna be easy. And I can’t just give
you the key. I need your help with something first.
There’s a thieving scoundrel out there who made off
with something valuable of mine. A little box with a big,
shiny gemstone inside. I’m offering you a trade, you
get me back my box, and I’ll get you inside that tower.”


9
 He smirks and takes a swig of his ale. “You look like
capable adventurers to me. Think you can handle it?”
Agree
If the players agree, Garrett will direct them to a
nearby wharehouse. Garrett’s rival, Finn Finnegan
(Bandit NPC) has set up a temporary hideout with
four of his closest henchmen (or women - regardless,
they are Bandit NPCs). Two of the Bandits guard the
entrance to the warehouse and the other two are inside
with Finn, oggling their newly aquired prize.
The players can tackle this hiccup in their plans in a
variety of ways:
Negotiation. The players can try to negotiate with
Finn, offering something of equal value to the gemstone
or striking a deal that benefits both parties. However,
since Finn is a rival thief, he may be reluctant to give up
something he has stolen.
Theft. The players can attempt to steal the gemstone
from Finn’s hiding place in the abandoned warehouse.
This may involve sneaking past guards or picking
locks to gain entry, or using distractions to create an
opportunity to grab the gemstone unnoticed.
Combat. The players can choose to confront Finn and
his associates head-on, engaging in a battle to retrieve
the gemstone. This approach is risky and may result in
injury or death, but it could be the most direct way to get
the gemstone.
Trickery. The players can attempt to trick Finn into
handing over the gemstone or revealing its location.
This may involve disguises, lies, or other forms of
deception to gain Finn’s trust and get what they want.
Bribery. The players can attempt to bribe Finn or his
associates to get them to give up the gemstone. This
approach may be effective if the players have something
of value that Finn or his associates want, but it also
carries the risk of being double-crossed.
How this is handled is entirely up to the GM and the
players. This can range from a straight up combat to a
quick heist. Just make sure to make it entertaining.
When the players return with the gem:
As you approach the Rusty Anchor, you see Garrett
standing outside, his arms folded and a scowl on his
face. He looks up as he hears your footsteps and a
small smile tugs at the corner of his mouth when he
sees the small, ornate box in your hands. “You have it!”
he exclaims, his eyes gleaming. “You’ve done well, my
friends. Very well indeed.”
Garrett takes the box from you and opens it, revealing
the glittering gemstone inside. He holds it up to the
light and nods in satisfaction. “This will fetch a pretty
penny,” he says, tucking it safely into a pocket. “Now,
let’s talk about that tower you’re so eager to explore.”
He leads you into the tavern and sits you down
at a small table in a dimly lit corner. “I know
a way in,” he says, leaning in conspiratorially.
“But it won’t be easy - you’ll need a key.”
As a cunning thief, Garrett has many tricks up his
sleeve, including access to rare and valuable items. One
of these items is a magical amulet that he obtained
during a previous heist. The amulet was crafted by an
ancient order of wizards and has the power to ward
off evil enchantments and curses. Garrett knows that

10
the mist surrounding the tower is part of the curse that
plagues Raven’s Rest, and he has tested the amulet
against it with great success. He believes that the
amulet will provide the players with immunity to the
mist, allowing them to enter and exit the tower safely.
The amulet that Garrett gives to the players is a small,
intricately crafted piece of jewelry that appears to be
made of silver and gold. The surface of the amulet is
covered in delicate, swirling patterns that seem to shift
and move when the light catches them. At the center of
the amulet is a small, perfectly cut gemstone that glows
with an eerie, otherworldly light. The gemstone seems
to pulse with energy, as if it is alive.
Disagree
If the players disagree, Garrett just shrugs, tells them
to enjoy their drinks and goes about his merry way. The
players will have to find their own way into the Tower.
Entering the Tower
As the players approach the tower, they are
immediately struck by the deadly mist that surrounds its
base. The thick, gray fog rolls across the ground like a
living thing, obscuring everything in its path. The tower
itself is a foreboding structure, its twisted walls made of
blackened stone that looks as though it was once on fire.
The door is slightly open, creaking back and forth in the
misty wind. The interior is plunged into darkness, with
only faint beams of light filtering in through the small
cracks in the walls, creating an eerie glow.
If any of the players is in possession of Garrett’s
Amulet, read aloud:
As you approach the tower, the mist surrounding its
base seems to writhe and twist, as though it is alive.
The chill in the air grows even colder, and you can feel
the mist pressing against your skin like a damp shroud.
But as you step forward, you see the mist begin to
recede, as though it were afraid of the amulet’s power.
A path opens up before you, and you can see the
entrance to the tower beckoning in the distance.
With the amulet in your possession, you are able to
pass through the deadly mist unharmed and make
your way into the seeminlgy cursed structure.
When the players wear the amulet, they feel a
strange, tingly sensation in their skin, and the mist
that surrounds the tower begins to part before them,
allowing them to enter. The amulet also grants the
wearer immunity to the strange effects of the mist,
allowing them to pass through it unharmed.
If the players do not have the amulet that allows them
access to the tower, the mist that surrounds the base
of the tower will act as an impenetrable barrier. This
means that the players will not be able to use any form
of magic or teleportation to bypass the mist. The mist
is a magical barrier that will not allow anything to pass
through it unless it is either lifted or dispersed by the
power of the amulet.
There may be alternate ways to enter the tower, but
those are beyond the scope of this document. Some
ideas, however:
Alternate Magical Artifact. The players could try to
find another magical artifact that can counteract the
effects of the mist, such as a magical herb or crystal
that can purify the air. This may involve exploring the
surrounding wilderness, uncovering clues about the
artifact’s location, and facing dangers along the way.
Sewer Route. The sewer route is a treacherous
path that requires the players to navigate the city’s
underground tunnels. They must first find a way to
access the sewers, perhaps by persuading a local
informant or using their own knowledge of the city’s
layout. Once they are in the sewers, they must navigate
the maze of tunnels and avoid hazards such as rats,
sewage traps, and waterfalls. The tunnels eventually
lead to a grate that is located in T7. Level 7, allowing
the players to enter the tower from below.
Brute Force. The players could attempt to physically
breach the tower, by scaling the walls or other means
if they can get close enough. This approach is risky and
may lead to combat or other dangers, but it may be the
only option if they cannot find another way to get inside
the tower.
ACT 2: Inside the Tower
The Tower is a large structure that stretches up to
Level 11 and descends beneath the ground to Level
1. The walls of the tower are made of a dark, ancient
stone that is covered in soot and grime, and there are
small cracks and fissures throughout the surface. The
ceilings are high, with each floor having a slightly
different height, giving the tower a slightly uneven feel.
Light sources are scarce, with small flickering torches
and sputtering candles providing the only illumination
in the dark, dusty rooms. The upper levels of the tower
are more well-lit, with larger windows and wider spaces
allowing for more natural light to filter in. However, as
one descends deeper into the tower, the light becomes
dimmer and less frequent, creating a more ominous and
oppressive atmosphere.
Assuming the players are using Garrett’s amulet to
bypass the mist and use the entrance to the tower, they
begin on T8. Surface.
T1. Bottom
As you descend the stairs, a feeling of unease settles in
the pit of your stomach. The air is thick with the acrid
stench of brimstone, and the sound of chanting fills
your ears. As you step into the basement, you’re met
with a scene of chaos. The room is in shambles, with
debris and rubble strewn haphazardly across the floor.
In the centre of the room, you see a group of cultists,
their faces twisted in concentration as they continue
their ritual.
As you watch, a dark shape begins to take form in front
of them. It’s hard to make out the details, but you can
see that it’s large and imposing, and you get the sense
that it’s something malevolent and dangerous. The
cultists seem oblivious to your presence, completely
focused on their task.
Suddenly, one of them looks up and spots
you. His eyes widen in alarm, and he points in
your direction. The others turn to face you, their
expressions contorted with fury and hatred. They
brandish wicked-looking knives and swords,
and you know that you’re in for a fight.
Cultists. When the players enter the room, the
cultists will immediately stop their chanting and turn
to face them. The cultists are clearly hostile and will
attack the players on sight, trying to prevent them from
interrupting the ritual.
Demon. The demon, Zaxaron the Corruptor, is still in
the process of being summoned and will scream in pain
and rage and begin attacking any living creature that
it can see. Fortunately, Zaxaron is not yet fully formed
and will be weaker than it would be if it were fully
summoned.
This is the climactic battle of this adventure, so the
Game Master should play it to the hilt. If Zaxaron is too

11
 powerful for the players to defeat, feel free to adjest its
hitpoints to make it an easier battle. The Game Master
could also have Zaxaron finish off the cultists first,
before moving on to the players.
Regardless, once Zaxaron is defeated, skip to
Aftermath.
T2. Worship
As you descend the stairs, the damp air of the
underground hits you like a wave. The room is a large,
circular chamber, roughly 40 feet across. The walls are
made of rough-hewn stone, and the floor is covered in
a thick layer of dirt and debris. The room is dimly lit by
a few flickering torches placed haphazardly around the
space.
In the center of the room, you see a large stone altar,
covered in strange symbols and runes. The altar is
stained with what looks like dried blood, and the air
around it hums with an eerie energy. To the east, part
of the wall has collapsed, revealing a small cave that
disappears into the darkness beyond.
The sound of dripping water echoes through the
chamber, and the air is thick with the scent of decay.
Altar. Four cultists are worshiping at the altar in this
room. They will attack as soon as they are able. During
the battle, they may shout things such as, “You will not
stop the ritual!” or “Zaxaron will rise!”
T2.1 Cave
You step into the small cave, and your eyes take a
moment to adjust to the dim light filtering in through
the cracks in the walls. The cave is rough-hewn and
looks like it was formed naturally. The walls are damp,

12
and there is a musty smell in the air. You notice that
the cave wraps around the east and north sides of the
room you just left, and the sound of dripping water
echoes through the space.
To the north, you can see a small sleeping area with a
single bed, made of furs and straw. It looks like it hasn’t
been used in some time. To the east, you see a small,
circular stone area. The stones are arranged in a circle,
and there is a faint, mystical energy emanating from
them. You feel a strange pull towards the stones, and
you can’t help but wonder what their purpose might be.
Stones. If the players enter the area of the stones,
they will spring a trap. The ceiling will collapse, causing
2D6 bludgeoning damage to anyone within the stone
circle. Each player in the circle can make a DC 13
Dexterity saving throw and on a success, takes half
damage.
Treasure. There are 50 gp, 25 sp and 10 cp scattered
in front of the stones in total, as well as a Dagger +1.
T3. In the Drink
If the players enter the room via the spiral staircase:
This room, like many others in this tower, is in ruins.
The spiral stairs end here. The floor is covered in water
and is about three feet deep. The room itself seems
to have collapsed, with a small passageway to the
north that goes deeper into the water and another
set of stairs along the west wall leading downwards.
If the players enter the room via the waterfall:
 You find yourself in a cave-like passage that curves to
the northeast. A waterfall to the south pours down
water from above, and the room is filled with the sound
of rushing water. The water here is deep, about 15 feet.
Poisonous Snakes. There is a Swarm of Poisonous
Snakes in the water that has been disturbed by the
players’ entry. Any further movement will attract the
snakes and they will attack. If a player gets bitten by a
snake, they will take 1d4 poison damage and must make
a DC 10 Constitution saving throw or suffer additional
poison damage.
Treasure. At the bottom of the water is a small chest.
It contains 25 gold and 50 silver pieces.
T4. Cave
As you descend the spiral stairs, you hear the distant
sound of rushing water. As you step onto the landing,
you see that the northeast wall has collapsed, and
the room is filled with water. The water is only three
feet deep here, but it gets deeper as it rushes out of
the room to the west. You can see a cave structure
through the hole in the wall. The sound of the waterfall
is deafening, and it threatens to drag you down to the
level below. The spiral staircase leads further down.
Waterfall. The players will need to make a Dexterity
saving throw (DC 15) to avoid being pulled down to the
level below. If they fail, they will fall into the water in
T3. In the Drink, and will need to swim to safety. If they
succeed on the Dexterity save, they can move about in
the room, but their movement is halved due to the water.
The rubble on the floor of the room provides half-cover
to anyone who takes cover behind it. The rushing water
provides a constant source of noise, making it difficult to
hear anything over the din.
T5. Water Guardian
You enter a circular room with a high ceiling, and a
spiral staircase in the centre. The walls are adorned
with faded murals depicting fantastical creatures, and a
square pool of water shimmers in the southwest corner
of the room. A statue stands at the edge of the pool,
gazing into the water with an inscrutable expression.
Statue. As the players approach the statue, they
notice that the water in the pool is murky and filled
with sediment. On the statue’s base is an inscription
that reads: “He who finds the hidden path must know
the depths.” The puzzle involves finding a hidden
door beneath the pool of water. The statue’s gaze and
inscrutable expression indicate that it may hold the key
to solving the puzzle. The players must interact with the
statue in a certain way to trigger the hidden door.
To solve the puzzle, the players must rotate the statue
to face different directions while reciting a specific
phrase (see T11. Broken Roof). Each time the statue
is turned to a new direction, the water in the pool will
clear slightly, revealing a bit more of the hidden path.
When the players have turned the statue to face all four
directions and recited the correct phrase, the water will
clear completely and the hidden door will be revealed.
The door is locked and requires a Dexterity check
(DC15) to open. The door reveals a small chest hidden
under the statue. The chest contains 500 gold pieces
and a Wand of Magic Missiles with 3 charges.

13
 T6. Defense
As you descend the spiral staircase, the sounds of
chanting, once faint, grow louder. At the bottom,
you find yourselves in a cramped room, only about
15 feet by 15 feet in size. In the center of the room
is a spiral staircase that continues upwards and
downwards. The air here feels tense and charged, like
something is about to happen. A group of cultists
has clearly been using the space for some sort of
ritual, but they are caught off guard by your sudden
arrival. They turn to face you, surprised and alarmed.
seems to have an odd tint to it, almost like a one-way
mirror. As you take a closer look around the room,
you notice that all of the items here seem to be old
and of little value. The tower is eerily quiet, with the
only sound being the occasional creaking of the
floorboards beneath your feet. It’s as if the tower is
holding its breath, waiting for something to happen.
Treasure. There is nothing of value in this room.
T9. Training Room

Cultists. As the players enter the room, the cultists will You enter a spacious room, the second floor above
be surprised, giving the players an advantage in combat. ground. The high ceiling is supported by a square
There are five Cultists in the room, armed with daggers pillar at its center. To the northwest, a set of stairs
and wearing dark robes. This combat encounter may leads down, while another set of stairs leads up to
be tricky, as the room is small with the spiral staircase the northeast. A table with two bench seats along its
in the middle. Players may decided to use the staircase sides is pushed against the west wall. In the southeast
as a means of cover (it provides half cover) or for other, corner, you see a wooden training dummy, adorned
more novel strategic purposes. with nicks and scratches. A small table flush against
the south wall has some old, rusted weaponry and
T7. Lounge other combat gear scattered about. To the north,
you notice a portcullis with a closed door beyond it.
There is a faint odor of sweat and blood in the air.
As you enter the room, you notice the spiral staircase
at the center, and four pillars surrounding it. The
staircase leads down to a lower level, while another
staircase in the northwest corner leads upwards. In the
southwest corner, there is a medium-sized table with
chairs surrounding it. The walls are decorated with
tapestries depicting various scenes. To the northeast,
southeast, and southwest are tapestries of historical
battles, while the north wall has a simple but well-
made landscape tapestry.

As you enter the room, you can hear distant chanting,

but you’re unsure of its source. Suddenly, two cultists
burst out from behind one of the pillars, their eyes wild
with anger and panic.

“Stop them!” one of the cultists screams. “They’re

trying to stop the ritual!”

The cultists rush towards you, brandishing

daggers and ready to fight.

Cultists. There are two Cultists in this room that will

fight to the death.

T8. Surface

You find yourself in a spacious room with stairs leading

up to the next level in the northeast corner and stairs
leading down in the northwest corner. A large pillar
dominates the center of the room, and you can see that
it is covered in strange markings and symbols. To the
west, you notice a broken cabinet lying on the ground,
while a tattered tapestry hangs limply from the eastern
wall. To the south, an old table stretches across the
entire length of the wall, surrounded by a few benches.
Despite the large windows along the north wall, the
room seems dimly lit and musty.

As you look out of the windows, you can see the

city streets below, but you don’t remember being
able to see into the tower from outside. The glass


14
 Training Dummy. The training Dummy will remain
inert unless it is attacked in any way. Once attacked, it
will become an Animated Training Dummy and attack
the party.
Portcullis. The portcullius is closed and requires a
Strength check (DC18) to open. Once open, it must be
propped open, or it will close again. The door leads to
a large pile of dirt that angles down through the mist to
the streets of Raven’s Rest.
T10. Detritus
As you enter this room, you notice that parts of the
northeast and southeast walls have partially collapsed,
leaving debris and rubble scattered about the floor. The
room itself is dimly lit, but daylight pours down from
a set of stairs in the southwest corner of the room,
casting a bright light in that area. In the northwest
corner of the room, another set of stairs leads down
into darkness.
The floor is covered in debris and detritus, making
it difficult to move around quietly. It’s unclear how
long it’s been since anyone has been in this room,
but it’s clear that nature has begun to reclaim it. The
sound of your footsteps echoes off the walls, as if the
room itself is trying to whisper something to you.
T11. Broken Roof
As you ascend the stairs, you find yourself on the
sun-drenched roof of the tower. The breeze is fresh
and cool, and the view of the surrounding city is
breathtaking. The roof is partially destroyed, with
rubble and debris scattered across the uneven surface.
The gaping hole in the northeast section of the roof
offers a clear view of the sky, and the remaining
sections of the roof are riddled with cracks and holes.
In the eastern corner of the roof, you notice a small
nest made of sticks and twigs. Upon closer inspection,
you see a strange, bird-like creature perched atop it.
It’s about the size of a large chicken, but its beak is
sharp and pointed, and its eyes glint with a dangerous
intelligence. As it sees you, it lets out a blood-curdling
shriek and leaps into the air, its wings beating
furiously as it charges towards you, ready to attack.
Cockatrice. A single Cockatrice sits on its nest on the
roof. It will attack if anyone comes near the nest. The
Cockatrice has not laid any eggs yet, but it is preparing
to, so defends its nest with alarming ferocity.
Nest. In the Cockatrice’s nest are a variety of items,
including 50 gp, 25 sp and scraps of paper. Anyone
reading through the scraps will discover a single
intact sheet with a diagram of the statue in T5. Water
Guardian and a single word written at each cardinal
point around the statue: Hertum, Llaeeatio, Traiyaalgia
and Tenime. These words and locations are the solution
to the puzzle in T5. Water Guardian.
ACT 3
Escaping the Tower
After the players defeat Zaxaron, the curse on the
tower is broken and it will begin to collapse:
As the final blow lands on Zaxaron, the Corruptor,
you feel the entire Sunken Tower shake and
groan. The cultists scatter in terror, and the
walls begin to crack and crumble. Suddenly, the
ceiling caves in, and you find yourself running
for your lives as debris falls around you.
The players should be strongly encouraged to leave
the tower as fast as possible. For each floor of the tower
they go through on their way out, players must make
a Dexterity saving throw (DC 14) to avoid taking 1d6
bludgeoning damage from falling debris as they make
their way up the stairs and out of the tower. Once they
do reach the exit:
As you burst out of the entrance, the Sunken Tower
seems to shudder and then fade away into nothingness.
You catch your breath and look around, relieved to
see that you are safe. As you catch your breath, Valin
approaches from the large crowd surrounding what
was the tower with a smile on his face.
“Good work, adventurers!” he beams. “You’ve saved
Raven’s Rest from what was surely a terrible fate. We
owe you a great debt.”
Speaking of debt, Valin hands each of you a pouch
of coins. “Here is a reward for your bravery. We
couldn’t have done it without you. The town of
Raven’s Rest will never forget your heroism.”
With that, Valin will unceremoniously gather up his
guardsmen and leave. The players, after their adventure,
may be in need of healing, etc.:
As you look back at the spot where the Sunken
Tower once stood, you realize that you have
been part of something truly remarkable. The
mystery of the tower has been solved, and the
town of Raven’s Rest can rest easy once again.
Further Adventures
If you and your players enjoyed your time in Raven’s
Rest, and wish to continue adventuring in the rich and
diverse world, you may want to consider purchasing
Mysteries and Marvels of Raven’s Rest: A Guide to
Adventure and Exploration, available on dmsguild.com.
This comprehensive guide is packed with new locations,
and NPCs that will allow you to explore the city and
surrounding areas in even greater detail.
You’ll find new mysteries to solve, new treasures to
uncover, and new dangers to overcome as you continue
your journey through the world of Raven’s Rest. So
don’t wait, head over to dmsguild.com and get your copy
today!

15
 Animated Training Dummy
Medium construct, unaligned

Armor Class 12 (natural armor)

Hit Points 45 (7d8+14)
Speed 20 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA

16 (+3) 10 (+0) 14 (+1) 1 (-5) 3 (+0) 1 (-5)

Damage Immunities poison, psychic

Condition Immunities charmed, exhaustion, frightened,
paralyzed, poisoned
Senses blindsight 60 ft. (blind beyond this radius), passive
Perception 6
Languages understands Commonbut cannot speak
Challenge 2 (450 XP)

Construct Nature. The animated training dummy doesn’t

require air, food, drink, or sleep.

False Appearance. While the training dummy remains

motionless, it is indistinguishable from an ordinary training
dummy.

Actions
Multiattack. The dummy makes two slam attacks.

Slam. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit:
7 7 (1d8 + 3) bludgeoning damage.

Self-Repair. The animated training dummy regains 5 hit points

at the start of its turn if it has at least 1 hit point and is not
in direct sunlight. If the dummy takes fire damage, this trait
doesn’t function at the start of the dummy’s next turn.

Training Programs. The training dummy is programmed to

simulate a variety of fighting styles. Each round, it randomly
switches to one of the following programs:

Brawler. The dummy makes two slam attacks against the

nearest creature.
Defender. The dummy moves up to its speed towards the
nearest creature, and then takes the Dodge action.
Ranger. The dummy moves up to its speed towards the nearest
creature, and then makes one slam attack at disadvantage if
it is within 5 feet of that creature, or one ranged attack with a
thrown weapon if it is farther away.

Description
The Animated Training Dummy appears to be a simple,
unremarkable straw and burlap stuffed practice target. However,
as soon as it detects it is being attacked, it springs to life with
surprising speed and ferocity.

Tactics
The Animated Training Dummy is programmed for combat and
will relentlessly attack any creatures it perceives as threats. It
uses its Slam attack to deal damage to single targets and save
its Whirlwind ability for groups or to knock back dangerous
melee combatants. If the party tries to focus on one target,
the Animated Training Dummy will try to move between them,
getting in the way of their attacks and forcing them to move
to attack it. It will prioritize targets that attack it, but will switch
targets if they appear to be weak or vulnerable.


16
Zaxaron, the Corruptor
Large fiend, chaotic evil

Armor Class 14 (natural armor)

Hit Points 45 (12d10+24)
Speed 40 ft., climb 30 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA

18 (+4) 14 (+2) 15 (+2) 7 (-2) 10 (+0) 9 (-1)

Skills Stealth +6
Damage Immunities poisoned
Senses darkvision 120 ft., passive Perception 10
Languages Common, Abyssal
Challenge 4 (1,100 XP)

Innate Spellcasting. Zaxaron’s innate spellcasting ability is

Charisma (spell save DC 11). Zaxaron can innately cast the
following spells, requiring no material components:

At will: darkness
2/day each: fear, web

Magic Resistance. Zaxaron has advantage on saving throws

against spells and other magical effects.

Actions
Multiattack. Zaxaron can use its Frightful Presence. It then
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:
10 (1d10 + 4) piercing damage plus 7 (2d6) poison damage.

Claws. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit:
8 (1d8 + 4) slashing damage.

Frightful Presence. Each creature of Zaxaron’s choice within

30 feet of it and aware of it must succeed on a DC 11 Wisdom
saving throw or become frightened for 1 minute. A creature can
repeat the saving throw at the end of each of its turns, ending
the effect on itself on a success. If a creature’s saving throw is
successful or the effect ends for it, the creature is immune to
Zaxaron’s Frightful Presence for the next 24 hours.

Description
Zaxaron is a towering, hulking demon with jagged pink skin and
multiple eyes, some of which glow like molten lava. His talons
gleam with a razor’s edge. His body crackles with dark energy,
and his breath reeks of sulfur and brimstone. His mind has been
shattered by the failed summoning, and he attacks anyone
within reach with insane fury.

Tactics
Zaxaron will attack anyone in sight, including the cultists, seeing
them as threats to his power and freedom. He will use his
powerful claws and bite to deal as much damage as possible. He
may also attempt to use his Frightful Presence to intimidate his
enemies or knock them off balance.

Zaxaron is not particularly strategic, instead relying on his raw

power and aggression to overwhelm his opponents. However,
he is not completely mindless, and may retreat to a more
defensible position if he is taking too much damage.


17
 
18
Mysteries Above
and Below
Embark on an exciting adventure with Curse
of the Sunken Tower, a thrilling D&D 5E
adventure for 4-6 players of level 1-3. Set in
the bustling city of Raven’s Rest, players will
navigate the treacherous ruins of the sunken
tower, uncovering dark secrets and facing
deadly challenges at every turn.

Designed to be easy to run for GMs and

perfect for new players, Curse of the Sunken
Tower provides everything you need to get
started, including fully-realized NPCs, maps,
and pre-generated characters. Whether
you’re an experienced GM looking for a
quick adventure, or a new player eager to
dive into the world of D&D, this module has
something for everyone.

With stunning artwork and a compelling

story, Curse of the Sunken Tower offers hours
of thrilling gameplay that is sure to keep
players on the edge of their seats. Experience
the rich world of Raven’s Rest as you explore
the depths of the sunken tower, uncover its
mysteries, and face the dangers that lurk
within. Will you have what it takes to survive
the curse of the sunken tower?


19