DeathtraP DeathtraP DungeoN DungeoN An Advanced Fighting Fantasy conversion by Duncan Young, © 2012 Based upon the original work by Ian Livingstone This work is a labour of love and homage to the original Fighting Fantasy gamebooks and their creators Ian Livingstone and Steve Jackson, and Advanced Fighting Fantasy by Marc Gascoigne and Pete Tamlyn, as updated in the most current edition by Graham Bottley. It is provided as a free resource for fellow fans to use in the latest version of the AFF rules. Copyright of the original content with the respective authors/publishers. Copyright of this format with Duncan Young. Please contact me at
[email protected] with any questions or visit my website at wyrind.blogspot.com wyrind.blogspot.com Copies of Advanced Fighting Fantasy and Out of the Pit are required to run this module. Visit www.arion-games.com for more information on the current edition of Advanced Fighting Fantasy, and the books can be found in various internet bookstores.
FOREWORD Like many kids growing up in Britain in the 1980’s, my introduction to fantasy roleplaying came through the Dungeons & Dragons cartoon (which shared a slot in the schedule with He-Man, meaning I had to give my parents very strict instructions on how to set up the VHS recorder to record D&D one week, and HeMan the next), and the Fighting Fantasy and Lone Wolf gamebooks. In later years, as I picked up the board games Hero Quest and Space Hulk, graduated to Warhammer, and ventured further afield into various editions of D&D, there was still much about these gamebooks that shaped my outlook on gaming. How creatures were portrayed, the compelling artwork, the dark humour and the frequent, meaningless deaths of the protagonist (me), they indelibly imprinted on my impressionable young mind what a fantasy game setting could be. Some of the most well-thumbed books on my roleplaying bookshelf are Dungeoneer and Blacksand, so I was excited to hear of the release by Graham Bottley and Arion Games of a new edition of Advanced Fighting Fantasy – the ruleset that emphasised fun and simplicity and, to my mind, is a great introduction to the hobby. What also serves this edition well is the wealth of inspiration and plots in the existing Fighting Fantasy gamebooks. So – for my own group and for the use of others – I set about writing up the infamous Deathtrap Dungeon, pet arena of Baron Sukumvit as a 2e AFF adventure.
CONVERSION NOTES This work is not intended to be a full conversion or write up of the original Deathtrap Dungeon gamebook – not merely due to copyright issues, but because there is no reason not to have a copy of the original book and chances are if you are reading this you already do. So, for the preface to the adventure, and the explanation of why Baron Sukumvit is offering 10,000 gold pieces to any that can beat his Trial of
Champions, please reference the source material. This conversion simply explains how each event in the original book can be run using the updated rules and Out of the Pit creatures. The relevant page references to the gamebook are included with each entry, which is structured to provide only prompts for the location, set up and adjudication of each event. One quick word, however, on the intent behind the original Deathtrap Dungeon. It was intended that there only be one winner in the gamebook, which does not fit in with the party-based adventures of roleplaying games. This is easily dealt with – either Baron Sukumvit’s rules are changed to allow an allied group to defeat the dungeon (my preference - you may wish to tinker with the number of hostile creatures in the dungeon depending on party size), or there are opportunities to have the players duel after the final encounter to see who is the ultimate victor. Go with whatever suits your group best. As written, this conversion assumes a group of 3-4 players with a moderately high risk of death. You may wish to tinker with the number of enemies to better fit the skill of your players, and their characters. Maps are included giving the layout of the dungeon. There are many other excellent maps available online but thanks in particular to Graham Parker’s magnificent effort that you may wish to also reference (fightingfantasy.com/images/artwork/DTDMap.pdf). Scale is notoriously vague in the Fighting Fantasy books, so use the maps only as a guide, and any dimensions as given in the text.
COMPETITIVE PLAY I’m hoping to run semi-regular forays into Deathtrap Dungeon for interested parties over Google+ Hangouts, each competing for the prize. If you are interested, look for me on Google+ as Duncan Young (
[email protected]).
HOUSE RULES As with all GMs, I have a few tweaks that I like to make to the game; for me, it’s to give it a slightly grittier feel – this dungeon’s a deathtrap after all! Some specific ones you’ll see in the text, where I suggest running creatures like the Bloodbeast differently to how they are handled in the gamebook to better make it fit the group roleplaying setting. Others are more general:
•
Ranged attacks: attacks use the Defender’s Dodge skill, or if they have a shield, their Armour skill (rolling a double-1 results in damage to the shield as well as the PC) instead of opposed Attack Strengths. A Master of Deflection talent allows a defender to parry a ranged attack with a successful opposed Attack Strength check using their highest Weapon skill (subsequent deflections in this
•
•
Die roll
Area
3–6
Bruising
No additional effect
7 – 10
Legs
Movement rate halved, falls prone. Immobilised and prone if rolled twice
11 – 14
Arms
Drops held object in affected hand (1 – 3 left, 4 – 6 right), two-handed weapon or magic use at additional -1 penalty
15
Chest
Cracked ribs, breathing difficult, will fatigue quickly (-1 SKILL per round until able to rest)
16
Groin
Winded, unable to act for d6 rounds
17
Head
(roll additional d6)
18+ 18+
Heart
Concussion
-2 to MAGIC and Knowledge skills
3
Throat
Temporary difficulty speaking, -4 to MAGIC
4
Nose
Temporarily lost sense of smell, -1 to MAGIC
5
Ear
Temporarily deafened, -2 to MAGIC
6
Eye
Temporarily blinded (permanent if rolled twice)
Instant Death
from the Out of the Pit supplement. For each hour of exploration or rest, there is a 1 in 6 chance of a wandering encounter with the following (roll 2d6):
Wandering Monsters – for parties that are likely to try and rest in the dungeon, Baron Sukumvit is sure to have arranged a patrol to catch them unawares! Here’s a selection of suitable creatures Die roll 2 3 4 5 6 7
Critical Hits – in the rules as written, a roll of a double-12 for attack strength results in a critical hit which causes double damage and the loss of 1 SKILL point due to severe trauma. I suggest rolling on this additional chart (3d6) to determine the nature of the SKILL point loss and any additional effects. If also the winner of the combat round, you can choose to add 3 to the roll. First Aid may help remove the penalty (but not the SKILL loss) if treatment comes soon after combat, at the Director’s discretion. Note not all entries may be applicable for certain creatures (e.g. hearts for skeletons) or additional entries may be substituted (wings for arms) – make a judgement call on the fly. Thanks to ‘torus’ on the Arion Games AFF2 forums for ideas.
Critical Hit Effect
1–2
•
•
manner are at a cumulative -1 penalty per attack; succeeding with an Unarmed check at -2 allows the incoming projectile to be caught.). Creatures with multiple attacks suffer a reduced penalty when outnumbered, based on the number of attacks they have e.g. a dragon with 2 attacks will need to face 3 melee opponents before they get a bonus to attack. Falling is surprisingly nonlethal, at -1/-1 STAMINA for each 5 metres. I’d suggest amending to -1 for the first 5 metres, -2 for the next 5, -4 for the next and each after that. So falling 20 metres would cost 12 STAMINA (1+1+2+4+4). A successful Test for LUCK or Acrobatics Special Skill check can reduce the damage by the last 5 metres worth i.e. 8 STAMINA for the fall described above.
Wandering Monster 1d2 GIANT CENTIPEDES 1d2 IRON EATERS
Die roll 8 9
1d6+1 GIANT RATS 10 1d6 ZOMBIES (25% carry Dire Trembling 11 disease (Test for LUCK avoids infection)) 2d6 TROGLODYTES 12 1d6 HOBGOBLINS
Wandering Monster 1d6 SKELETONS 1d6 ORCS (50% chance to be led by 1 GREAT ORC) ORC 1d3 GHOULS 1d3 GIANT SPIDERS 1d3 OTHER COMPETITORS (50% chance of being Friendly; come up with your own NPCs, or use THROM (area 31) for inspiration
Deathtrap Dungeon Reading the entries: Text in bold is what is immediately visible to the adventurers as they enter a location or open a container, and should be in the Director’s initial description. Text following that, or after a ‘>’ is further information available for adventurers that inspect more closely. Text following a lists options relating to the above object, including actions or contents. Underlined text indicates actions that might be taken, relating to the linked object. These are suggestions, not the only option or solution available; players will have other creative ideas too. Skill checks, tests for LUCK or other rules related instructions are italicised. CREATURES are displayed in capitals, and their entries include SKILL and STAMINA (multiple combatants separated by ‘/’), weapon/armour tables, and any treasure carried.
THE ENTRANCE See the BACKGROUND section of the gamebook for more information on the Trial of Champions. Have fun playing up Baron Sukumvit as a camp sneering villain whose gold the players should be eager to grab. The corridors to the dungeon itself are damp worked stone, with water dripping from the ceiling and spiders, beetles and rats scurrying along the floor.
1. BOXES (1, 270)
Ringing the bell causes loud vibrations, induces convulsions in all near bell (-2 SKILL, -2 STAMINA). Bell will continue to ring until muffled. Trap Knowledge will indicate this if necessary. If ringing not stopped, a HOBGOBLIN will appear and attack. Die roll SKILL 7 STAMINA 5
1
2
3 4 5 6 7+ 4
Sword 2 3 3 3 3 3 Med. 0 0 1 1 2 2 Armour
3
4. THE PUFFBALL (56) Large brown boulderboulder-like object blocks corridor > soft, spongy texture > room to squeeze past above. Forest or Underground Lore can identify object as a puffball that can release spores. Cutting through the puffball releases choking spores. Each character nearby looses 2d6 STAMINA (Test for LUCK: if Lucky, take half damage. Taking suitable precautions, such as breathing through damp cloth, may give bonus to test, or avoid the need completely). Climbing over puffball requires Climb check. Failure, particularly if carrying heavy or long items (e.g. spears) risks piercing the puffball as above.
5. HOBGOBLINS (264)
Stone table > Wooden Boxes (1 per adventurer) containing 2 GP Note: Note “Well done. At least you have the good sense to stop and take advantage of the token aid given to you. Now I can advise you that you will need to find and use several items if you hope to pass triumphantly through my Deathtrap Dungeon. Signed, Sukumvit”.
Sound of commotion up ahead > fighting, Languages can identify insults in goblinoid tongue > two HOBGOBLINS fighting over a satchel on the floor. Stealth is possible with Sneaking roll, as creatures are too engrossed in battle to notice. Can sneak past or choose to get first strike in combat.
2. THE ARROW (66)
SKILL 7/6 STAMINA 5/5
White arrow painted on the wall, points left. Wet footprints > 3 sets head left, one set right.
3. THE BELL (220) Large iron bell hangs from ceiling; gong mallet rests against the wall. Attuned characters may sense a magical aura with a successful Magic Lore check.
Die roll
1 2 3 4 5 6 7+ Sword 2 3 3 3 3 3 4
Med. 0 0 Armour
1
1
2 2
3
Satchel > Jug of acrid smelling liquid ACID (test by dipping something in liquid). Drinking causes -1 SKILL and -4 STAMINA in first round, then death if not immediately neutralised, washed or diluted. Causes 2d6 STAMINA damage if used as a thrown weapon or trap.
j h DEATHTRAP DUNGEON A. ENTRANCE
g
f d s y
a i
t u
o
w r
e q START
6. POLE TRAP (110) Wooden poles cross corridor > 12 in total, each set in wall ½ metre off the ground, 1 metre apart. Trap Knowledge indicates that if any pole is touched, they will all explode (2d6 STAMINA loss to any caught in the area, roll damage separately for each PC). Trap Knowledge (-4) can create a path through without triggering trap. Acrobatics check to navigate without touching a pole. Players may come up with other options (crawl under, trigger trap with ranged weapon etc) – allow them to be creative, and use SKILL rolls where necessary.
7. CAVEMAN (387) Burly NEANDERTHAL stalks this N-S corridor > wearing furs and carrying club > scratches in dumb frustration at a bracelet on his wrist > will attack on sight. Die roll
1
2
3 4 5 6 7+ 4
Club 1 2 2 2 3 3 Light 0 0 0 1 1 1 Armour Strongarm talent (+1 to damage rolls)
SKILL 7 STAMINA 8
2
Bracelet > leather band with 4 rat skulls attached. Attuned characters may sense a magical aura with a successful Magic Lore check. Donning the bracelet activates curse which causes the wearer to regress to a primitive state, slow-witted and quick-tempered like the Neanderthal; -4 to SKILL and MAGIC. Removal of the curse requires a Blessing from a priest with Devotion of 11 or higher.
8. BACKPACK (298) Backpack sits on floor, resting against the wall > appears crumpled, mostly empty 1 GP BLACK WIDOW SPIDER hides within Bites unprotected hands that search backpack. Test for LUCK: if Lucky, take 1d3 STAMINA damage, if Unlucky take 2 SKILL and -2d6 STAMINA from spider venom.
9. HEAT TRAP (13, 182) Heat of corridor rises sharply. If approaching from south, a length of hollow bamboo pipe containing a clear liquid rests in an alcove > PCs will profusely sweat and mouths feel dry. Attuned characters may sense a magical aura on liquid with a successful Magic Lore check
Drinking liquid from pipe grants resistance to the effects of the heat (lasts 1d6 x 10 minutes) Not Drinking the liquid and continuing down corridor requires SKILL/Strength check or pass out from heat exhaustion. PCs will die unless removed to cool area and given water, in which case they revive in 1d6 hours
10. PIT AND ROPE (156) Door > iron plate Moving iron plate shows contents of the room (rope rope on far wall) and reveals a pit hidden behind the door. Entering the room without spotting pit requires a Test for LUCK/Acrobatics check to avoid falling in. Those who fall lose 8 STAMINA (15 metres). Climbing up and down the pit to get to the other side requires two Climbing checks down and up. Jumping the pit requires one Jump check each way with a run up. Rope coil is 25 metres long.
11. ORCS (326) Patrolling this E-W corridor are two ORCS, ORCS who will attack on sight. SKILL
Die roll 1 6/6 Morning1
STAMINA 5/5
2 3 4 5 6 7+
2 2 3 4 4 star Light. Armour 0 0 0 1 1 1
5 2
ORCS carry 6 GP, GP 2 SP, SP and hollow wooden tube.
12. EX- BARBARIAN (299) Wet footprints lead to iron door. Large room, littered floor covered in bones, scraps of clothing and broken objects. Alcove on far wall holds silver goblet. goblet Stood in the centre of the room impaled on spike is a dead barbarian warrior in furs. Caught by trap hidden on floor. Battleaxe Dried herbed herbed meat (+3 STAMINA if eaten) Hunting skill recognises it as very nutritious jerky from northern tribes. Silver goblet > Evaluate: 25 GP Contains red sparkling liquid. Attuned characters may sense a varying, changing magical aura from liquid with a successful Magic Lore check. Trap Knowledge indicates a dart will fire from alcove if goblet taken. Dodge or Test for LUCK to avoid taking 1d6 STAMINA damage. Further SKILL/Acrobatics check to avoid spilling all the liquid. Trap Knowledge (-2) to disarm.
Drinking has variable effect (roll 1d6, can be drunk from up to four times before drained) 1 +2 STAMINA 2 -2 STAMINA 3 Full Heal 4 -1 SKILL 5 +3 LUCK 6 -2 LUCK
13. JADE IDOL (37, 351) Large natural cavern > Green statue of cross-legged smiling bald fat man (6m tall) in centre > green jewelled eyes. eyes Standing either side of statue are two stuffed giant birds. birds Will attack if they/the eyes are touched. Die roll SKILL
7/8
STAMINA 8/8
1
2 3 4 5 6 7+
Medium 2 3 3 3 4 4 Bite Medium 0 0 1 1 2 2 Armour
5 3
Jade statue Climbing is difficult due to smooth surface. Climb checks at -4, or -2 with a rope. Combat skill at -2 whilst climbing. Left eye > EMERALD (Evaluate check: 100 GP). GP Can be pried loose. Right eye is a fake gem (Evaluate check: worthless). Trap Knowledge at -2 finds a trap Prying it loose will release a cloud of knockout gas around statue (Test for LUCK or fall unconscious for 1d6 × 10 minutes; if climbing, will also fall to the ground for -3 STAMINA).
Ring of Wishing drops to the floor (1 wish; Director adjudicates results).
15. BEAM OF LIGHT (344) Beam of shimmering blue light falls on centre of corridor, leaving unlit space around it > floating images of laughing faces dance in the light. Walking around the light causes no effect Entering the light > faces turn to despair and anguish. Face of a young girl floats close and says: “When corridor doth water meet
Do not make a quick retreat Take a breath and jump right in If your Trial you hope to win”
16. FLY`S NEST (168) Stone door > iron latch with round handle. Opens to large cavern > warm, damp, fetid air, algae on walls. Low hum fills the air, and floor covered in straw apart from pit of writhing giant (2ft) maggots. Ornate dagger (+1 to damage rolls) rests amidst the maggots. If nest or dagger touched, two GIANT FLIES descend from ceiling to attack. If a GIANT FLY wins a combat round, character must succeed a Strength check or Test for LUCK to avoid being snatched into the air and dropped for 1d6 STAMINA on top of bite damage. Die roll SKILL
7/7 7/7
STAMINA 8/8
1
2 3 4 5 6 7+
Medium 2 3 3 3 4 4 Bite No - - - - - Armour
5 -
14. EMPTY(?) ROOM (102)
17. ROCK GRUB (352)
The door opens into a small unlit, bare room. The door will shut and lock 10 seconds after anyone enters the room. A voice will then call out: “Welcome to Deathtrap Dungeon, the ingenious killer
Sound of grinding rock > walls vibrating Underground Lore can identify source as likely a burrowing ROCK GRUB; GRUB a centipede-like creature with strong bite. Very successful checks will recall that they sense by feeling for body heat. ROCK GRUB bursts through southern wall in 1 round.
labyrinth of my master. I trust you will now hail my master with the respect he deserves?” Respectful replies or questions are met with: “So we have a snivelling/ignorant weed in our
midst? My master has a special gift for you, loathsome creep” Water then floods into chamber. The door requires a Strength check of use of Lockpick skill (at -2) to open. The room takes 3 rounds to fill and trapped characters will start drowning. Disrespectful replies that curse Sukumvit elicit: “Good! My master likes those who show spirit! Take this gift to help you. It will grant you one wish, but one wish only. Don’t be greedy!”
Die roll SKILL
7
STAMINA 11
1
2
3 4 5 6 7+
Medium Bite 2 3 3 3 4 4 Light Armour 0 0 0 1 1 1
5 2
2 attacks Borehole in wall left behind its path
Underground/Animal Lore hints that amate and eggs likely nearby. Entering borehole leads to nest containing another ROCK GRUB and 1d6 eggs. Fighting in the cramped passage carries a -4 SKILL penalty to all relevant actions.
DEATHTRAP DUNGEON B. CENTRE
3& 3(
3^
3*
3$
3!
3@
3#
2!
3% 3) 2(
2&
2* 2^
2% 2$
l
2@
2# 2)
k From A
;
18. MIRROR CURSE (329) Mirror at end of corridor > see own light reflected Awareness check allows spotting the reflection is distorted at a safe distance. Reflection shows character with a swollen head. Looking in mirror closely causes the victim’s head to swell uncontrollably to match reflection. Test for LUCK to look away in time, otherwise gaze is fixed on mirror and victim cannot move. Anyone gazing into the mirror loses 1d6 SKILL and MAGIC, +1 per subsequent round. Breaking the gaze, by smashing mirror with Strength check (at a -4 penalty to avoid looking at it), blindfolding or moving the victim or similar method prevents further SKILL and MAGIC loss, but inflicted damage remains.
19. PITFALL (68) Chasm > 4 metres wide, 15 metres deep > rope hangs from ceiling in the middle. Awareness check spots rope has been half cut. Swinging on rope causes it to snap. Falling characters take 7 STAMINA damage. Jumping across requires a successful Jump check. Climbing down and up the pit to get to the other side requires two Climbing checks down and up. Bottom of chasm pitch black > RUBY (Evaluate: 100 GP) GP lies amongst rubble.
20. STATUARY (12) Room full of statues > depict warriors from wide variety of cultures > incredibly lifelike. OLD MAN > white-haired, crazy > will speak with party: “Oh goody! Another stone for my garden? Come to join your friends, have you? I used to be a Trialmaster here, don’t you know! But the Baron didn’t like my methods, see! I want someone to win, to beat this dungeon BUT only if they are worthy! I wonder if you are worthy...” Proving themselves worthy by demonstrating their prowess or knowledge (let the players be creative) means the old man will reward them using his Ironhand or Strength spells (see below). Proving themselves unworthy by making fun of the old man, threatening or doing anything that might make a crazed old man take offence will cause him to attack. He will focus primarily on Petrify and Wall spells to add new statues to his garden.
Die roll 1 2 3 4 5 6 7+ SKILL 4 Unarmed 1 1 1 1 1 2 3 STAMINA 10 Robes - - - - - - MAGIC 9 MAGIC POINTS 18 Wizard Spells: Ironhand (1), Strength (1), Ward (1),
Weakness (1), Restrain (4), Wall (4), Petrify (6) OLD MAN carries 20 SP and a POTION of MAGIC. MAGIC
21. BOULDER TRAP (217) Long northerly corridor > walls worn and grooved > slopes gently upwards. Tripwire three quarters of the way along corridor. Awareness spots it before triggering. Triggering tripwire causes boulder to be released from the north, rolling rapidly south towards party. SKILL/Strength check to outrun boulder as far as door to area 22. Fleetfooted talent grants a bonus of +2 to the check, but wearing armour or burdened carries penalty (see Dodge modifiers). Other ways of stopping boulder may be used e.g. Wall spell Anyone otherwise crushed by boulder takes 10d6 STAMINA damage.
22. SKELETON CLUE (381) Wooden door > ‘X’ marked on it in chalk. Stone throne > Skeleton of armed warrior > weapons and armour covered in rust, parchment clasped in right hand. If skeleton or parchment touched, it will attack. Parchment reads: “Should you meet the Manticore
Of its tail beware! Shield yourself against the spikes Flying through the air.” Alcove in far wall > full of cobwebs > hides steps leading down. SKELTON WARRIOR items too rusted to be of use. Die roll
1
2
3 4 5 6 7+
Battleaxe 3 3 3 3 4 4 5 Medium 0 0 1 1 2 2 3 Armour Edged weapons only do 1 point of damage against it.
SKILL 8 STAMINA 6
23. FUNGI CELLAR (128) Damp cellar, low ceiling > floor littered with rotting debris > growing by north wall are several large, unusual mushrooms. mushrooms Underground/Plant Lore identifies mushrooms as causing uncontrolled growth on ingestion. Eating a mushroom will cause the victim to double in size for 2d6 hours.
They will be too big to leave the cramped cellar, and SKILL/MAGIC checks are at -4 penalty. Wandering monsters will likely come across them in this time.
24. GOBLINS! (124) Steps lead up to trapdoor trapdoor to enter room > room holds table, cupboard, whetstone and four GOBLINS. GOBLINS Die roll 1 2 3 4 5 6 7+ 5/5 Short- 1 2 2 3 3 3 5 5/5 sword Light 0 0 0 1 1 1 2 STAMINA 4/4 5/5 Armour Cupboard Wooden Mallet and 10 iron spikes 38 GP Handaxe of Goblin Slaying SKILL
25. SKULL & BALLS (153) Two balls on floor by door > wooden. Marble plinth > Skull > eyes are two TOPAZ gems (Evaluate: 50 GP each). Crossbows line left wall > aimed across room > loaded. Awareness check finds no trap on floor; does find trap on plinth or crossbows if explicitly examined. Pressure plate on plinth such that if skull removed and then replaced, crossbows will fire. Trap Knowledge at -2 to disarm. Test for LUCK or Dodge check to avoid being hit by 1d6 crossbow bolts (Armour roll allowed). Die roll
1 Bolts 2
2 2
3 4 5 6 7+ 3 3 4 4 5
26. MIRROR, MIRROR (74) Mirrors line corridor for 20 metres > human skeleton lies half drawn into mirror. Walking past or being reflected in a mirror causes MIRROR DEMON to emerge and attack. Die roll SKILL
10
STAMINA 10
1
2
3 4 5 6 7+
Medium 2 2 3 3 3 3 Claw No - - - - - Armour
4 -
2 attacks. Anyone struck by the demon must also succeed a Test for LUCK or Strength check to avoid being pulled into the creatures mirror dimension and lost there. Smashing mirrors requires a Strength check (at -2) with a melee weapon (or SKILL at -4) and will banish the MIRROR DEMON. The mirrors will all explode; Test for LUCK or Dodge to
avoid taking -2 SKILL due to multiple cuts and lacerations.
27. STAIRCASES (122) Two flights of stairs > separated by banister of rat skulls > lead to two archways set in far wall. Awareness check if stairs are examined spots the forth step on the right-hand staircase is weakened. Will give way if stepped on and victim’s leg falls into pit of hungry rats. 1d6 rats will bite the leg doing 1 STAMINA damage each (no armour roll).
28. THE PRISONER (210) Wooden door > severed hand nailed upon it. Male Prisoner > chained to wall > missing right hand. Will beg for mercy, and offer advice if freed. Used to be a contestant, but fell down pit and was rescued by a dwarven Trialmaster and enslaved. Currently punished and imprisoned for trying to escape. Knows rough layout as far as area 39, but not details. Also knows that several gems must be collected to unlock the door at the exit (Note: a clue that area 35 is not the real exit). Will flee south hoping to escape if allowed. Too malnourished and beaten to travel with the party in his current state, but if healed and treated very well, could be persuaded to act as a henchman. Die roll
1
2
3 4 5 6 7+
By weapon - - - - - - STAMINA 10 No Armour - - - - - - SKILL reduced due to missing hand. Current STAMINA is 3 Special Skills: Armour (2), Sneaking (2), Swords (2), Awareness (1), Dodge (1), Healing (1),Throwing (1) SKILL
5
29. IRON PIPE (78) Iron pipe protrudes from wall > 1 metre diameter > dark, dank and slimy. Entering the pipe after 10 metres will come across wooden box. Pipe continues on. Iron Key SAPPHIRE (Evaluate: 100 GP) GP Continuing past wooden box, requires an Awareness check from characters with the Dark Seeing talent to spot a sudden drop in the pipe. Victims will slide and fall 50 metres into an isolated cave, taking 36 STAMINA damage.
30. DEAD ORCS (338) Two ORC bodies > (Baron Sukumvit’s livery) Healing check shows they were both killed by cuts from a heavy blade. Searching the bodies finds a necklace of teeth around the neck of one orc. Attuned characters may sense a magical aura with a successful Magic Lore check. Amulet of Strength grants +1 to damage rolls and gives a +1 bonus to Strength skill (which gives characters with no existing Strength skill one rank in it).
31. THROM! (282) (Designer note: When I first saw the image of Throm the barbarian in the gamebook, I thought what turned out to be his eye-patch was in fact a pair of shades. I kinda like that image of a Conan-esque warrior in a loincloth and shades – you may wish to use it here!) Muscular barbarian stands at junction, and calls out “You’re the competition, huh?” Will converse with party. Depending on how he’s treated, and the number of potential rivals to split the winnings with, he may join forces or will attack to eliminate the competition. Die roll
1
2
35. ILLUSORY EXIT (325) Daylight visible up ahead > images of blue sky and green fields and trees > no accompanying sounds or breeze (mention this subtly to hint that all may not be as it seems, and see clue from area 28). Exit is an illusion that only becomes apparent to those inside the chamber on passing the centre of the chamber. Room is in fact littered with dead bodies and detritus (558 558 GP and various rusted/rotted arms and armour). Second Sight check identifies the illusion before the characters enter the room. Entering the room causes permanent Wall spell to block the exit. This can be counterspelled, but resets if people remain in the chamber.
36. BOOKSHELF (194)
3 4 5 6 7+ 6
Two books on shelf > dusty, leather covers with no title or text. Red Book Opening the book causes pages to crumble. Appears to be a bestiary. One page fragment remains:
2
“Beware the BLOODBEAST! It is a bloated, spiny, evil
Greataxe 2 3 3 4 4 5 Light Armour 0 0 0 1 1 1 Strongarm talent (+1 to damage rolls)
SKILL 10 STAMINA 14
Triggering trap causes boulder from ceiling to fall on those in area doing 2d6+2 STAMINA damage. Test for LUCK or Dodge check to avoid.
32. DEAD END (388) Dead end > paper pinned to wall > aged “Beware the Trialmasters”
33. CHASM (22) Chasm > 4 metres wide, 20 metres deep. Jumping across requires a successful Jump check. Climbing down and up the pit to get to the other side requires two Climbing checks down and up Bottom of chasm has passageway running north.
34. CEILING TRAP (311) Flagstone just after chasm is trapped. trapped Awareness check spots loose flagstone. Trap Knowledge identifies that if stepped on, ceiling will collapse. Check at -2 to disarm, or can be stepped over. Jumping over the chasm risks running over the flagstone.
creature that lurks in pools of fetid toxic slime which will dissolve normal flesh in seconds. It catches the unwary with its wickedly barbed tongue, which can dart out a surprising length and drag the unsuspecting into its pool to dissolve for later digestion. The BLOODBEAST has a wicked primordial face covered in raw blisters. It is here that its one weakness lies – the red blisters mask its one true russet eye; a lucky strike at the real eye will dispatch the beast in seconds.” Black Book Opening the book reveals a hole cut in the pages containing a bottle with a clear liquid. Attuned characters may sense a magical aura with a successful Magic Lore check. Potion of Trap Detection lasts 8 hours and user will immediately know of any traps in sight (but not the detail of the trap). Depending on how the party is faring at this point, you may wish to grant characters 2 LUCK points each for finding these useful items. Or you may not.
37. CAVE TROLLS (369) Two CAVE TROLLS patrol this E-W corridor. They will attack on sight. Awareness check hears their heavy boot prints.
Die roll 1
2 3 4 5 6 7+
Large club 1 2 2 2 3 3 STAMINA 14/11 Light Armour 0 0 0 1 1 1 Strongarm talent (+1 to damage rolls) 2 attacks SKILL
10/10
4 2
CAVE TROLLS carry 4 GP Bone ring > engraved with dwarven runes Attuned characters may sense a magical aura with a successful Magic Lore check. Evaluate or Religion Lore checks may recognise this ring as being sacred to Throff, Throff goddess of earth and the dwarven race, which will increase the fortitude of those that are worthy. Wearing the ring forces a SKILL or Strength check, with a -2 penalty unless they are a dwarf or Priest of Throff, as their body convulses violently. Those that succeed gain a permanent +3 to STAMINA whilst the ring is worn; those who fail lose -3 STAMINA and fall unconscious for 1d6 × 10 minutes.
38. STALACTITES (221) Large cavern > high ceiling covered in stalactites > milky liquid drips into pools > floor covered in rubble. An archway to the east in the shape of a demonic mouth leads to another corridor. Awareness check notices a strange echo in the chamber, and that the fine stalactites vibrate on the ceiling. Searching the chamber finds a small leather pouch containing a live mouse. Causing a loud noise such as by finding the mouse, shouting, running etc will cause the delicate stalactites to crash down from the ceiling. Characters caught in the chamber may flee for either east or west exits, but take 2d6 STAMINA damage; a successful Dodge or Test for LUCK halves the damage taken.
39. TRIALMASTER (60) Chamber has no visible exits > DWARF sits on ornate throne in the centre. Greets adventurers: “You have done well to get this far. But only the most
worthy can be allowed to win I will test your luck, agility and fighting prowess. If one of you can succeed at each task, I will show you where the hidden exit lies. Do not be so foolish to try and dispose of me – you will only rot in here.”
Awareness check notices dwarf’s hand is poised to press a concealed button on the chair. Attacking the dwarf causes him to press the button and fire 1d6 poison darts at the lead characters. Dodge or Test for LUCK to avoid being hit and paralysed for 2d6 rounds. Anyone not paralysed can then attack. Die roll
1
2 3 4 5 6 7+
Battleaxe 3 3 3 3 4 4 5 Crossbow 2 2 3 3 4 4 5 STAMINA 6 Chainmail Hauberk 0 1 2 2 2 2 3 Combat Reactions talent (not surprised/outnumbered) Skills: Armour 3, Battleaxe 3, Crossbow 2 Crossbow bolts coated in spider venom poison Carries a blue and red pill (see below) (Director’s note: Depending on if you want one sole winner of the dungeon or will allow parties to win, feel free to alter the challenges as to whether each party member or just a nominated champion may take part. All characters should still face the Test of Prowess together.) SKILL
8
The Test of Luck The DWARF will roll 2d6, scoring 8, and ask the characters to predict if their roll on 2d6 will be higher or lower than, or exactly, 8. Enterprising players may have means to sway the odds in their favour... if the trialmaster doesn’t spot the subterfuge! Sleight of Hand checks could let characters load the dice or fudge the roll The Animate spell might allow players to move the dice to a desired result Failing these or alternatives, the characters can simply Test for LUCK, or merely roll the dice and hope. Failure to correctly guess the result results in the DWARF demanding the character choose between a blue and a red pill. Red pill causes the loss of 2 points of LUCK Blue pill causes the loss of 2 points of SKILL (or alternatively roll randomly for the effect) Regardless of the outcome, the DWARF will still allow the characters to take the next challenge. The Test of Agility DWARF enters secret side room to the east and brings out a basket containing a COBRA. One character must catch the COBRA and return it to the basket using their bare hands. SKILL or Brawling check at -2 to catch the COBRA. If unsuccessful, another Test for LUCK is required to see if the character was bitten and poisoned, for a total of 5 points of STAMINA damage. The character(s) attempting this are allowed as many attempts as it takes, but are not allowed to heal before the next challenge.
© ©
6) 5# 5@
5^
5%
5$ DEATHTRAP EATHTRAP DUNGEON C. EXITS 5(
5!
© 5) ©
4*
5* 4(
5& 4$
4%
4& 4^ 4! 4)
4#
4@ From B
The Test of Prowess The DWARF opens a secret door in the southern wall, leading to a large arena. arena He asks the characters to choose between facing ‘A sting in the tail’ or ‘An amazing end’’ for their final battle. Their respective opponents are then either a GIANT SCORPION Die roll
1
2
3 4 5 6 7+
Large 2 3 3 3 4 4 5 claw STAMINA 10 Chitin 0 0 1 1 2 2 3 2 attacks, double damage Winning an attack round with a roll of a double 6 (total Attack Strength of 22) means the character has been fatally poisoned (no Test for LUCK possible). SKILL
10
or a MINOTAUR. MINOTAUR Die roll
SKILL
9
STAMINA 9
1 Battleaxe 3 Horns 2 Hide 0
2 3 2 0
3 4 5 6 7+ 3 3 4 4 5 3 3 3 4 5 1 1 2 2 3
Strongarm talent (+1 to damage rolls) 2 attacks, +2 to Attack Strength and double damage with horns on charge attack On defeating their opponent, the DWARF offers each character food and wine (+2 STAMINA), and will lead them at crossbow-point to a secret door to the north leading towards the exit. If the characters attempt to kill the DWARF at this point, we will try to unleash the undefeated arena opponent to help him.
40. T JUNCTION (213) A muted buzzing sound can be heard from the west.
41. FAKE CROWN (108) Glass panel in wall > alcove teeming with giant insects (bees, wasps, beetles, ticks etc) > jewelled crown sits on purple cushion. Smashing the glass and reaching for the crown will result in being bitten for 1d6+2 STAMINA damage. Option may be available to prevent insects attacking e.g. using smoke to drive them off, piercing glass and using acid on insects etc Evaluate check with the crown in hand will identify it is a worthless fake.
42. OLD MAN (341) OLD MAN > chained and shackled > carrying tray of bread and water. Awareness check will hear his approach from the west. OLD MAN will ignore characters and walk past unless stopped. Acts tired and weary, just wanting to get on with his job. Acts as a servant of the trialmasters, and is looking for way to escape or bribe his way out.
Helping the OLD MAN with either food, gold or other kindness will result in him offering advice Will explain that the bird-shaped throne along the corridor to the north has a secret compartment containing a doppelganger potion. The bread and water from the tray is poisoned. Eating or drinking forces a Test for LUCK; if Lucky, the character looses 1d3 STAMINA, if Unlucky they lose 2d6 STAMINA and 2 SKILL points. If the OLD MAN is abused by the characters he may try to trick them into eating the poisoned food and drink.
43. MEDUSA (200) Wooden door > ajar > female cries for help from within. StrawStraw-covered floor > large cage in centre > expensive drapes cover cage, tied to rope running through iron ring in ceiling. Woman will cry out when she hears anyone enter the room. Will claim floor is trapped and will give way with their extra weight if they don't hurry and get her out of there (a lie). Lifting the drapes will reveal she is in fact a MEDUSA; MEDUSA all in sight must make a Test for LUCK; if Lucky, they are unharmed, if Unlucky, they are turned to stone. MEDUSA can be tricked into looking into a mirror with a successful Test for LUCK. If released, she will attack. Die roll
1
2
3 4 5 6 7+
Claws 2 2 3 3 3 3 4 No Armour - - - - - - Each round, opponent must Test for LUCK to avoid the MEDUSA’s gaze and be turned to stone. Blindfolds, or averting their eyes, negates the gaze, but incurs a penalty to attacks. SKILL 6 STAMINA 5
MEDUSA carries a brooch on her rags which holds a large GARNET (Evaluate: 100 GP). GP
44. LEPRACHAUNS (49) Two LEPRECHAUNS lie in wait around the corner. Awareness check hears giggling and sniggering. Approaching LEPRECHAUNS causes them to run away to the north. Pursuing them will cause 6 of their fellows to emerge from the secret chamber and surround characters. They will use any opportunity to try and play pranks on and steal from the characters. See their spell selection below to be creative and childish with your prank-making. Playing along with pranks may win them over to offer some assistance. They will
likely need appeasing by being allowed to keep some of the items they have stolen. Attacking them causes them all to blow a magic dust over the PCs (Test for LUCK or paralysed for 1 hour). They will avoid melee, and use their magic to steal from the PCs then flee. Die roll SKILL 10 Unarmed STAMINA 4 No
1 1
2 1
3 4 5 6 7+ 1 1 1 1 2
Armour - - - - - - Spells: Animate (1), Fear (1), Illusion (1), Tongue Twister (1), Fly (4), Grand Illusion (4), Invisibility (4)
©
CHUTES
Metal chute in wall > lightly greased > slopes gently into darkness. All characters using these chutes are deposited in area 61. 61
45. TIGHTROPE (393) Archway filled with curtain > brown, brown swaying in cool breeze. Leads to large chamber with deep chasm, 7 metres across, splitting room in two. Winged helmet rests on pole on far side, tightrope spans chasm. Acrobatics check to cross tightrope, -2 due to breeze from chasm. Those who fall lose 20 STAMINA (30 metres). Fly/Levitate spells could also be used. Winged Helmet is magical and will slow any fall greater than 2 metres to a gentle descent.
46. BIRD CHAIR (24) Alcove > throne > shaped like demonic bird of prey. Examining throne with successful Awareness, Test for LUCK, or following the advice from OLD MAN in area 42, finds hidden compartment. Doppelganger potion – label states “Doppelganger potion, one dose”. Will change user’s appearance to match that of nearby creature, for 10 minutes.
47. WATERY END (378) Pool of water at end of corridor. Awareness check spots passageway under water, leading to corridor to the north/south.
Diving into the pool to cross passage without precautions risks spoiling perishable items (e.g. rations) in backpacks (Test for LUCK to avoid).
48. CONSTRICTOR (170) Female cries can be heard from the corridor, and are then abruptly cut off. Archway leads to natural cavern > BOA CONSTRICTOR is crushing an ELF warrior to death. It drops the lifeless body and attacks Die roll
1
2
3 4 5 6 7+
Bite 2 3 3 3 4 4 5 Hide 0 0 0 1 1 1 2 If BOA CONSTRICTOR wins a combat round, the victim must Test for LUCK or pass a Strength or Brawling check to avoid being wrapped by its body. On subsequent rounds, a grabbed victim takes double damage (as Bite) unless it succeeds an opposed Strength or Brawling check. Attacks from free opponents against the BOA CONSTRICTOR get a +4 bonus whilst it is grappling, but half of damage from bludgeoning weapons also is taken by the grappled victim. SKILL 8 STAMINA 14
Elven warrior has several useful possessions. Note reading “Must find certain gems in order
to escape the dungeon – a diamond is one of them, but what are the other two..?” Mirror Bone Monkey charm on a leather cord. Attuned characters may sense a magical aura with a successful Magic Lore check. When charm is thrown, it turns into a GIANT APE under users control. Useable once per day or until the GIANT APE is killed in combat, at which point the charm becomes useless. A summoned ape can be commanded to return to the charm at any time. Unleavened bread grants +3 STAMINA if eaten. Curved Dagger Attuned characters may sense a magical aura with a successful Magic Lore check. Grants +1 to Attack Strength and Damage rolls.
49. IRON GRILLE (120) Iron grille sits in centre of corridor floor > covers pit 1 metre deep. Reaching into grille finds a grappling hook and a leather pouch containing a brass bell. It will also disturb the TENTACLED THING lurking in the pit, which will have a free strike against any unprotected arms reaching in to the pit. Die roll SKILL 8 STAMINA 10
3 Attacks.
1
2
3 4 5 6 7+ 4 3
Suckers 2 2 3 3 3 3 Hide 0 0 1 1 2 2
TENTACLED THING can only be struck with long weapons whilst at bottom of the pit; strikes against the tentacles reaching out of the pit only do half damage. On a successful attack, the victim must succeed a Test for LUCK or take a -2 SKILL penalty due to a paralytic poison in the suckers (lasts 1d6 x 10 minutes).
Forcing the door requires a Strength check at -3, due to its size. Unlocking the door requires Iron Key from area 29. Passing through the door form the south, a voice will call out to the north; “This way! You’re on the right track!”
50. CHEST TRAP (93)
53. IVY & OLD MAN (187)
Small dusty room > chest on shelf on far wall > footprints in dust lead to and from the chest. Opening chest triggers hidden trap (-4 to detect/disarm with Awareness/Trap Knowledge, unless PC has drunk Potion of Trap Detection from area 36) Trap floods room with Brimstone Vapour – all in area must Test for LUCK or take 5 STAMINA damage. Chest holds pendant chain, with visible signs of a large gem having been prised out from the centre.
Old man stands by a large basket attached to a rope ascending to a hole in the ceiling. He calls out eagerly. “You’re doing great! Not far now! But listen, I got a
51. TROGLODYTES (230) Large natural rocky cavern > high pitch chanting > tribe (~20) of TROGLODYTES running in circle around large golden effigy. effigy Sneaking by the TROGLODYTES may be possible with Stealth or spells. Subterfuge could be used with illusions, the Doppelganger potion or other options. If the TROGLODYTES spot the characters, they will be offered the Rite of the Arrow in order to pass through the chamber. This entails removing their shoes (halves movement on rocky floor), and walking to the distance of a bow shot (30ft), at which point the TROGLODYTES will begin their pursuit. They will not pursue beyond the door to the north (area 52) or the water to the south (area 47). The bridge to the north crosses a fast flowing, cold river. Characters might try and Hide under the bridge; this requires a successful Swim check at -2 due to the fast flowing water. Die roll
1 1 1
2 2 1
3 4 5 6 7+ 2 3 3 3 4 2 2 2 2 3
Bow Dagger STAMINA 4 Light Armour 0 0 0 1 1 1 2 Due to their small size, these TROGLODYTES take a 1 penalty to all damage rolls. However, they are expert archers and have +1 Attack Strength with the bow. SKILL
5
52. LOCKED DOOR (86) This iron door is firmly locked. Picking the lock requires a Lockpick check at -3, due to the quality of the door.
shortcut I can let you use. Up here. It’ll get you to end real quick. Just make it worth my while and I’ll pull you up in the basket.” The old man wants payment in gold for use of the shortcut. The basket holds 4 characters. On payment and climbing in, the old man calls out “Haul them up, Ivy!” before running away and cackling. IVY is a large troll hauling up the basket. She will demand further payment before letting the characters out of the basket. IVY’s room is crude but has a portrait of another troll in a guards uniform on the far wall. Appeasing IVY is possible with a suitable payment, or a Con check if they flatter her based on the painting (her brother Sourbelly of Port Blacksand, of whom she is very proud). Attacking IVY causes her to drop the basket (all within take 1d6 STAMINA damage from the fall). She will then grab a broken stool and climb down to attack. Die roll
1
2
3 4 5 6 7+ 5 3
Stool 3 3 3 3 4 4 Hide 0 0 1 1 2 2 Strongarm talent (+1 to damage rolls)
SKILL 9 STAMINA 9
IVY carries 7 GP and an old bone tucked in her belt.
54. GUARD DOGS (305) Barking and howling can be heard from the top of the steps > three GUARD DOGS lie in wait. They will attack any who enter, but can be distracted with the bone from IVY (area 53). Die 1 2 3 4 5 6 7+ roll SKILL Bite 2 3 3 3 4 4 5 7/7/7 No STAMINA 7/8/8 Armour - - - - - - The collar of one dog holds a metal capsule, which contains a Leprechaun’s Tooth (+2 to current LUCK).
55. PIT FIEND (245) Tunnel ends in high, smooth wall with a large door. door Climbing the wall requires a Climb check with a -5 penalty due to its smooth surface. A rope and grappling hook reduces this penalty. Opening the door leads to a large arena with a sandy floor. In the centre, stands a PIT FIEND which will attack all who enter. Attacking the PIT FIEND from the top of the wall grants a +2 bonus to the Attack Strength, but losing a combat round risks falling from the wall (10 metres for 4 STAMINA damage). The PIT FIEND can still reach opponents atop the wall to bite. Attacking with ranged weapons from the corridor provides some safety but the PIT FIEND will attempt to break through the wall to reach its foes (Test for LUCK to avoid being hit by debris from a falling wall for 1d6 damage). Die roll
1
2
3 4 5 6 7+ 7 4
Bite 3 3 4 4 5 6 Hide 0 1 2 2 3 3 3 attacks, double damage
SKILL 12 STAMINA 15
An iron ring is fixed into the floor at the centre of the arena. This opens a trapdoor to a small chamber containing an ornate large shield. Attuned characters may sense a magical aura with a successful Magic Lore check. Grants a +1 on armour rolls with the shield.
56. NINJA (214) At the entrance to this room a red line painted on floor > sign on wall reads “No weapons beyond this point!” Chamber has polished marble floor and pillars. pillars A NINJA hides within. Test for LUCK or opposed Awareness/Hide check to detect the NINJA before he strikes from hiding with a shuriken. If the attack is undetected, it will cause an additional +1 SKILL and +4 STAMINA loss, as the NINJA uses his ki to stun the opponent. As well as the weapons, the NINJA also carries Ointment Attuned characters may sense a magical aura with a successful Magic Lore check. Healing salve that restores +3 STAMINA. Palm leaf parcel containing rice (+1 STAMINA if eaten). DIAMOND (Evaluate: 100 GP). GP
57. COBWEB BOX (14) Dark room filled with cobwebs. cobwebs Two doors on north wall.
Awareness check spots a small wooden casket hidden in the webbing. Clearing the webs also reveals the box. Casket contains a large PEARL (Evaluate: 100 GP). GP The western door is in fact an IMITATOR Touching the door causes it to lash out with a fist-like pseudopod – automatic hit; roll damage, modified by armour. Die roll
1
2
3 4 5 6 7+
Slam 2 2 3 3 3 3 4 No - - - - - - Armour Those struck by the imitator are held fast by its gluey membranes, and suffer -2 SKILL until they can prise themselves free SKILL 9 STAMINA 8
58. FOUNTAINS (262) Two fountains > water spouting from mouths of stone cherubs. West fountain > refreshing but cursed water; if drunk, +1 STAMINA, -2 LUCK. East fountain > water contains pixie dust; if drunk, +1 STAMINA, +2 LUCK.
59. STILTS & SLIME (368) Corridor covered in green slime > corrosive, -3 STAMINA on contact, may ruin armour or weapons. Stilts are available to the south of the slime > chained to wall > sign: “Stilts for hire: 1 gold each!” > coin dispenser built into wall. Stiltwalking over the slime requires an Acrobatics/SKILL check to avoid falling. Breaking into coin box, finds 1d6 GP.
60. FAKE VICTIM (218) Open double doors > armoured warrior lying face down > jewel rests by outstretched hand. Second Sight skill check or having drunk the Potion of Trap Detection (area 36) reveals that the room is an illusion, and a trap. Touching the warrior causes it to vanish, the room to go dark, the doors to lock, and the ceiling to lower. The victims have 1d6 rounds to escape before ceiling is lowered, crushing them. A Strength check each round can hold up the ceiling but at a cumulative -2 per additional round. The doors can be opened with a Strength or Lockpick check at -4, with an additional -1 penalty each round after the first as the room becomes more cramped.
61. BLOODBEAST (90)
Die roll
Chutes drop characters in large, humid room > bloated worm-like creature with many eyes lounges in foetid corrosive slime containing dissolved bodies – the BLOODBEAST. BLOODBEAST The pool gives off a noxious gas that fills the chamber from 3ft upwards; those breathing the fumes must Test for LUCK or fall unconscious for 2d6 rounds. BLOODBEAST is restricted to its pool, but its long tongue can lash out at anyone in chamber. Those hit by the tongue, must make an opposed Strength or Brawling check or be drawn into the pool of acidic slime, taking 3d6 STAMINA damage. Those armed with a slashing weapon may cut the tongue to free themselves, if they can do at least 3 points of damage (not deducted from the creature’s STAMINA total). Killing the BLOODBEAST can only be done with a piercing strike at its real eye – this requires winning an opposed Attack Strength check, and a Test for LUCK, whilst wielding a weapon that can pierce its eye and brain. Note: due to the pool of corrosive slime, only those with long or ranged weapons can strike the BLOODBEAST without being exposed to the slime.
SKILL 12 STAMINA 18
1
2
3 4 5 6 7+ 5
Bite/Tail 2 3 3 3 4 4 No Armour - - - - - -
-
3 attacks After a successful attack, roll 1d6 – on a 5 or 6, the strike was with the MANTICORE’s poisoned stinger, rather than the bite, doing an additional 2d6 STAMINA damage (Test for LUCK for half damage).
63. EXIT DOOR (364) Iron door > ornate and carved > three depressions where lock should be. IGBUT THE GNOME appears from thin air when character approach door, and addresses party.
3
“Greetings! My name is Igbut the Gnome, and I am the Trialmaster for your final test. Needless to say, my magical powers are great, so you should not try to attack me. You may have learnt during your quest that gems play an essential part in the Trial of Champions. The iron door in front of you is the victory exit, but there is only one way of opening it. Three gems have to be put into the lock mechanism in a particular order, for the door to open. Each gem radiates a unique energy which will trigger the mechanism – if you do it correctly, that is! I will help you to a degree, by telling you that you need an emerald, a sapphire and a diamond, and I can tell you when some of the gems are placed correctly. Now, do you have the gems you need?”
Large vaulted pillared room > MANTICORE descends to attack. MANTICORES start combat by unleashing a volley of spikes at all in a 90° arc, doing 1d6 damage, modified by armour, to those who fail to evade the attack.
If the players do not have the right gems, Igbut will teleport away, leaving them in the chamber. Roll three times on the wandering monster table; all the resulting creatures appear from the west and attack. Igbut will watch as the character place the gems in the door. The correct sequence is Sapphire, Emerald, and then Diamond. For each gem placed in its correct position in the sequence once the three gems are placed, Igbut will inform the party they have “One crown correct”.
Die roll SKILL 12 STAMINA 10
1
2
Tongue - Medium 0 0 Hide
3 4 5 6 7+ - - - - 1
1
2
2
62. MANTICORE (134)
6!
6@ 6# 6% 6$
DEATHTRAP DUNGEON: THE GAUNTLET
Incorrect guesses trigger a Lightning Blast (see spell) that hits all PCs in the chamber for 2d6+2 damage, not modified by armour. This trap can be disarmed by a Trap Knowledge check at -8; failure also triggers the trap. The door can be opened without the right gems, with a Lockpick or Strength check at -8. Any attempt, successful or not, will also trigger the trap, as above. Attacking Igbut to force him to help is an option. He will start combat by hurling a green globe at the party, which explodes into a cloud of toxic gas; Test for LUCK or take 1d6 STAMINA damage. Igbut will then fight with spells, but will Teleport away if the battle turns against him. Die roll
1 2 3 4 5 6 7+ Unarmed 1 1 1 1 1 2 3 Robes - - - - - - MAGIC POINTS 21
SKILL 7 STAMINA 9 MAGIC 11 Wizard Spells: Befuddle (1), Flash! (1), Illusion (1),
Thunder (1) Ward (1), Combine (2), Counterspell (2), Mirror Selves (2), Starry Orb (2), Arrow-Snake (4), Grand Illusion (4), Invisibility (4), Lightning Blast (4), Teleport (6)
64. THE FINAL TRAP (243) Long corridor > daylight visible at the end. Awareness check at -2 spots a final trapped flagstone that will fire crossbow bolts from holes in the wall along the length of the corridor Trap Knowledge at -4 to disarm. Test for LUCK or Dodge check to avoid being hit by 1d6 crossbow bolts (Armour roll allowed). Die roll
1
2
3 4 5 6 7+ 5
Bolts 2 2 3 3 4 4
65. VICTORY! (400) Characters emerge to cheering crowds, and a surprised, and annoyed, Baron Sukumvit. He awards them 10,000 GP, and the freedom of the city of Fang. Players should be awarded experience for completing a major adventure, depending on the campaign you run this could be upwards of 200 XP. More importantly, they now have the enmity of a cruel, devious Baron Sukumvit who will now begin devising further trials to test and discredit the victorious heroes!
THE END
