The Keep On The Borderlands – Revisited th
for 4 Edition A module for 3rd to 5th level characters By Kelly D. Tolman First some references and legalese. This whole thing is based on the original Dungeon Module B2 The Keep On The Borderlands, by Gary Gygax originally published by TSR in 1981. This conversion is made in homage to that great work. You will need: The Players Handbook, Dungeon Master’s Guide and The Monster Manual for 4th edition as published by Wizards of The Coast. If you play in the Forgotten Realms, then you will want to have the Forgotten Realms Campaign Setting for 4th edition handy as well. Please note that the the statistics of monsters, traps, etc. which come directly from the core rulebooks are NOT reproduced here. The conversion is for the 4th Edition Dungeons and Dragons system, which is a tr ademark of Wizards of the Coast. This is not an officially licensed work, therefore it may or may not be fully compatible with the 4th edition Dungeons and Dragons system. I suggest that it will work just fine. fine. Copyright notice: ©2009 Kelly D. Tolman. Feel free to redistribute this work or any any portion of it in any way that you choose. However, pleas also be kind and acknowledge the work of the author. If you decide to sell this free work then you are an unscrupulous jerk and deserve to be hung from the nearest tree. The authors name (in case you skipped the by line) is Kelly D. Tolman. His email address is
[email protected].. Send him an email and he’ll get back to you
[email protected] you (eventually). Send him spam and it will get caught in the spam filter. You may want to put Keep On The Borderlands (or something similar) in the title.
Cave G Shunned Cavern (owlbear) .... ......... 43
Table of Contents
Cave H Bugbears ........................................ 45
........................ .......................... ... 2 Introduction..................................................
Cave I Minotaur ......................................... 48
Part One: Back Story For The DM ..................... 3
Cave J Gnolls .............................................. 51
Area Map................... ................................... ........................ ........... 4
Cave K Temple of Evil Chaos ....................... 54
Part Two: Drell’s Keep ..................................... 6
Keep Map .......................... ......................... ...................... ... 16
Part Five: Events and Afterwards .................. 60
Raider Attack ............................................. 60
Part Three: Adventures Outside of the Keep . 17
Chant’s Story ............................................. ....................... ........................ 61
The Swamp and Lizardmen ......................... 17
Lord Drell and Continuing Adventures ........ 61
The Mad Hermit ..... ............................... ..... 17
Part Six: Treasures ......................................... 63
The Raider Camp .... ............................... ..... 18
Level 3 Treasures ....................................... 63
Random Encounters ................................ ..... ........................... ... 18
Level 4 Treasures ....................................... 64
Part Four: The Caves of Chaos ........................ 19
Level 5 Treasures ....................................... 64
Cave A Kobolds ........................................... ........................ ................... 23
Appendix A NPC’s and New Monsters........... 65
Cave B Fearclaw Orcs Or cs .......................... ........ 28
NPC’s ......................................................... 65
Cave C Irontooth Orcs Orc s ......................... ........ 32
Other Generic NPC’s................................... 68
Cave D Goblins..................................... G oblins..................................... ....... 35
New Monsters............................................ 70
Cave E Ogres ............................ ................... 38 Cave F Hobgoblins ................................. ..... 39
Cave G Shunned Cavern (owlbear) .... ......... 43
Table of Contents
Cave H Bugbears ........................................ 45
........................ .......................... ... 2 Introduction..................................................
Cave I Minotaur ......................................... 48
Part One: Back Story For The DM ..................... 3
Cave J Gnolls .............................................. 51
Area Map................... ................................... ........................ ........... 4
Cave K Temple of Evil Chaos ....................... 54
Part Two: Drell’s Keep ..................................... 6
Keep Map .......................... ......................... ...................... ... 16
Part Five: Events and Afterwards .................. 60
Raider Attack ............................................. 60
Part Three: Adventures Outside of the Keep . 17
Chant’s Story ............................................. ....................... ........................ 61
The Swamp and Lizardmen ......................... 17
Lord Drell and Continuing Adventures ........ 61
The Mad Hermit ..... ............................... ..... 17
Part Six: Treasures ......................................... 63
The Raider Camp .... ............................... ..... 18
Level 3 Treasures ....................................... 63
Random Encounters ................................ ..... ........................... ... 18
Level 4 Treasures ....................................... 64
Part Four: The Caves of Chaos ........................ 19
Level 5 Treasures ....................................... 64
Cave A Kobolds ........................................... ........................ ................... 23
Appendix A NPC’s and New Monsters........... 65
Cave B Fearclaw Orcs Or cs .......................... ........ 28
NPC’s ......................................................... 65
Cave C Irontooth Orcs Orc s ......................... ........ 32
Other Generic NPC’s................................... 68
Cave D Goblins..................................... G oblins..................................... ....... 35
New Monsters............................................ 70
Cave E Ogres ............................ ................... 38 Cave F Hobgoblins ................................. ..... 39
Introduction: The original The Keep On The B orderlands module was designed for a party of 1st through 3rd level characters. In all honesty it wasn’t horribly horribly balanced, and proved to be a bit of a challenge challenge for 1st level characters. The 4th edition update is even more challenging. rd
th
This module is for 3 through 5 level characters. Now, this doesn’t mean that a lower level party won’t survive. It means that there is a high probability that if they start a combat in the Caves of Chaos area that they will not do very well. If this is a concern for you, then I suggest waiting for the prequel to be released soon at http://www.dndcorner.com.. http://www.dndcorner.com
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Part One: Back Story for The Dungeon Master Drell's Keep was recently re-established on the
valley. Scouts have confirmed that these caves
borders between Cormyr and Netheril by
are inhabited by various humanoids. At least
Kavmen Drell. Lord Drell was awarded this post
two scouts have not returned, and the area is
for his unfailing performance of his duty during
considered to be dangerous.
the recent troubles with Netheril. He has been ordered to secure and rebuild the keep and to
The original map, taken from page 15 of the
establish it as an outpost and restocking station.
original module is copied for you on the next
In order to accomplish this Lord Drell
page. This module does not make use of the
understands that he will have to find some long
“Caves of The Unknown” marked on t he map.
term resources rather than continue to rely on irregular supplies from Cormyr.
Background and History for the DM:
Drell is a good man and an excellent leader. He Location: Drell's Keep is located in t he foothills
is also highly ambitious, though thoroughly loyal
of the Storm Horns near the Stonelands near
to Cormyr. He hopes that he can draw enough
Netheril. The exact location can, of course, be
followers here to build a thriving town.
applied to any campaign. I use forgotten realms
Unfortunately he knows that in order t o build a
because I like it. The keep was originally built
town he will have to encourage industry. There
centuries ago in motte and bailey style, and is
is lumber in abundance, and he has plans for a
located on a low hill. There is one road going
sawmill. Iron, however, still has to be brought
up the hill and only one gate i n.
in. The humanoids in the area have been seen
If you are playing a non-Forgotten Realms
using crude iron weapons. Old trappers tell
setting, then just drop the keep in any
about mines that used to operate in the past,
hilly/mountainous area near a river on the
but which were taken over by raiders. He
border of an established kingdom, preferably a
would like to clear out the caves and begin
kingdom looking to expand or looking to defend
mining operations again.
itself from an enemy. Furs are also available in abundance, but t he The area surrounding the keep is a series of low
kobolds and goblins continually raid the
valleys and hills. The river Shrill, a relatively
trappers. He is not willing to risk taking his
small river runs out of the mountains into the
forces out in strength against any single group
Stonelands. The ruins of an ancient abbey lie
for fear of reprisals. He is willing to hire a party
on a hill across the river, though Lord Drell has
of adventurers to either eliminate or negotiate
no interest in the abbey at this time because it
a peace with the various humanoid races that
appears to be relatively calm. More pressing
occupy the caves of chaos.
are the caves only a few miles away in a nearby
3
4
The bottom line is that Drell will have to clear
unaware of Simiobolt's presence, though he
out the caves in order to establish any kind of
would eradicate the priest if he knew of his
base. He has received permission to
activities.
commission an adventuring group and is willing to pay them 5 gold per right ear of any orc,
These rules are posted at the entrance of the
kobold, gnoll, or goblinoid. If there are hostiles
keep, as well as on the wall near all government
in the abbey across the river they have not
buildings.
crossed the river to cause problems and can be ignored for the present.
1.
The gate is closed after dark. It is opened for nobody.
The caves are occupied by refugees from
2.
Cursing in public. Fine 1 sp.
different spellplagued outlying regions. Small
3.
Spitting in public. Fine 1 sp.
families of gnolls, goblins, kobolds, orcs,
4.
Loitering. Fine 1 sp.
bugears, and hobgoblins all fled here when
5.
Public drunkenness. Fine 2 sp.
their original homelands were destroyed by
6.
Public indecency. Fine 2 sp.
various other large forces. Individual motives
7.
Brawling. Fine 5 sp.
and ambitions are given in with their individual
8.
Use of weapons to commit violence. Fine 1
sections. The other major force is the domain
gp
of Simiobolt Hold, a priest of Cyric. Because the
9.
followers of Cyric have been outlawed and
Use of magic without authorization. Fine 10 gp
pursued by most, Simiobolt has come here to
10.
All persons not registered as permanent
find peace and to recruit followers. Simiobolt
residents shall be able to provide proof of
has discovered that the keep is occupied again,
employment or purpose to remain more
and has sent his servants to find more
than 3 days within the keep.
information. Until now Kavmen Drell is
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Part Two: Drell’s Keep Ballista Hazard
Drell’s Keep is divided into 27 areas. Most of these areas are here simply for background
Level 8 Artillery XP 350
Initiative +5 Attack Standard Blast 3 within 40 Attack +11 vs. REF. 3d10 damage and the target is pushed 6 squares. Reload: It requires 3 men at arms 2 full rounds to reload the ballista. Disable: The ballista can be disabled with a successful thievery check DC 24. Countermeasures ✦Kill or disable at least one of the operators. ✦Deal 100 points of damage to the catapult.
info. Each area is detailed below. In general the keep is very organized, clean, and run just the way a military installation should be run. When the characters arrive they will be directed to Bravol’s Inn or to the Tipsy Mermaid tavern. The people of the keep know that adventurers are being hired, and are excited to have the party around. They will welcome them and ask them questions about their background.
Catapult Hazard
Where noted there are catapults and ballistae. These items are designed for protection
Level 9 Blaster XP 400
Initiative +2 Attack Shot (Standard): Burst 6 within 40. +12 vs. REF. 3d10 damage and the target is knocked prone. Reload: It requires 3 men at arms 2 full rounds to reload the catapult. Disable: The ballista can be disabled with a successful thievery check DC 28. Countermeasures ✦Kill or disable at least one of the operators. ✦Deal 100 points of damage to the catapult.
outwards. They cannot be rotated to face into the keep.
Area 1: Main Gate. There are a pair of men at arms here. Treat as 1st level fighters. If the PC's go wild and start slaughtering the town, then you'll need to break out some stock NPC's. In addition to their other gear, all guards who are on duty at any location
Area 3: Entry Yard
of the keep are issued a whistle which they can blow if any trouble starts. Anyone within 10 squares will hear the whistle with no check.
When the PC's enter here they will be required
Those within another 10 squares or inside of
to dismount (if they have mounts) and will be
buildings must make a passive perception check
interviewed briefly by Bjorn Farnhand -
DC 12 to hear it. Increase the perception check
Corporal of the Watch. Bjorn will explain the
DC by 2 for each additional square out.
rules if the characters have any questions. He will ask their names and business. If they indicate that they have responded to Lord
Area 2: Flanking Towers
Drell's call for adventurers he will direct them to Again, not much here other than another six
the Bravol's Inn. If they do not appear to have
men at arms.
money or a purpose in the keep he will send someone to get Damling Hammerhorn the bailiff . Assuming that the PC's can show that at 6
least one of them has enough silver to pay for
particular loyalties to Cormyr or to Drell except that Drell is an excellent leader and the post here is comfortable.
room and board for a week they will be allowed entry to the keep. Damling is normally in area 6. Damling will determine if the PC's need to be
Area 7 (Private Apartments or Homes):
run out of the keep or offered employment with the guards. If they appear to be honest
Area 7 is really several different areas. Each is a private residence or apartment rented or allocated to the resident by the keep. Most are irrelevant, though there is room to improvise. The two largest are explained here.
and capable he will offer them posts with the guard at 2 sp per day plus room and board.
Area 4: Stables.
7a: Merchant.
There area couple of stable hands here (treat as human rabble). The charge is 2 coppers per day to stable a mount. Feed can be purchased for another 2 coppers per day.
Jothran Yolandus and his wife Malara are here to review the furs. They have with them two mercenary bodyguards (fighter level two, see stats for Bjorn Farnhand above). Each guard also commands a large fighting dog (treat as a hyena see Monster Manual). Jothran is quite wealthy though he does his best t o invite trouble. In his apartment is a locked iron box with 200 platinum and 100 gold pieces.
Area 5: Warehouse. There are two guards on duty here at all times. The warehouse stores some supplies for the garrison as well as any trade goods that the guild has stored. If the PC's should acquire large quantities of goods they will be advised to store them here. Use of the warehouse is free to guild members. Otherwise the charge is 1 copper for every 10 pounds per week with a 1 silver piece minimum. Expensive items requiring additional care will be charged at 1% of the item's value per week. Additional guards will be placed on duty if requested at the guild house or the Baliff's Tower.
Typically he has 8 gold on his person. Secreted in his belt are 10 gems worth 50 gp each. If the PC's inquire about expensive or rare items for trade, they will be directed to Jothran. Jothran is establishing a regular trade route for furs with the keep and has connections to be able to acquire magic items if the characters are willing to wait for them. At the moment he is not hiring mercenaries, though he will direct them to collegues in different cities if asked.
Area 6: Bailiff's Tower.
7b: Chant Havelove, priest of Tyr.
When not drinking or taking care of other duties Damling Hammerhorn, the bailiff of the outer bailey can be found here. Damling was an adventurer and prospector in his youth. He came to Cormyr only recently and entered Drell's service to help rebuild the keep. Now that the stonework is complete and the locals aren't attacking he spends his time visiting with new faces and keeping abreast of the news.
Chant passes himself off as a priest of Tyr, but really he is a warlock serving Simiobolt Hold. Chant is a level 4 warlock and has two very close followers, Liza and Nadara. Chant uses bluff and his knowledge of religion and arcana to convince others of his genuine fervor, although he doesn't really have any particular convictions.
Damling is efficient in his work, disciplined with his troops and generally liked. He has no 7
Simiobolt pays well and Chant will do anything for money or power. Currently he is assessing the situation. He uses messenger pigeons currently to communicate with Simiobolt. He sends these messages on his walks through the garrison. As a priest he is given relatively unfettered access through the keep.
Area 8: Smithy and Armorer: Brian Blackforge, the smith is a retired adventurer who has entered Lord Drell's service. Normally he doesn't wear his armor around, but he always keeps a weapon handy.
He is popular with the troops and folk at the keep. He is jovial, friendly, and courteous.
He charges PHB prices for his services, however purchases of armor will require approval from someone above the rank of corporal. He has 2 suits of chainmail in stock which can be t ailored in one day for human sized creatures. It will take two days for more severe modifications.
If the PC's seek his help in healing, he will turn them over to Liza and Nadara who are more skilled than he is, or he will offer them a potion of healing. He will use the excuse that he spent his youth learning the arts of battle when he should have spent it in better pursuits. Chant avoids Essentia Nells, the eladrin advisor to Lord Drell, but he is on good terms with Freela, the genasi bard who is acting as Lord Drell's scribe.
He can craft other armor in two weeks and will need half the price in payment up front. He also has light shields, simple weapons, as well as swords and pole arms. Brian has three assistants (treat as human rabble) who help him. He sleeps in a room near the forge and his assistants sleep wherever they can find a place, usually in the shop. He keeps most of his savings in the bank (see area 11), but he has a box with 6 gp, 16 sp, and 21 cp hidden in his room. Currently he is making parts for a wagon for Marlin Drouhust the trader.
When the PC's leave the keep, Chant will begin causing trouble in the Keep. He has already managed to befriend 6 of the guards, and will rely on their friendship if he is found out. He is quietly spreading rumors about the dangers outside of the keep to raise the level of fear. Eventually he will murder or arrange for the murder of a guard at night. He has asked Simiobolt to have the raiders (led by Tandoro, human swordmage 2) to light a vi sible fire at night to attract attention and raise suspicion. The keep is unlikely to weaken their garrison by sending out troops, but he will then point out Lord Drell's fear and weakness. After he can convince some to abandon their posts he will attempt to murder Harnost, the guildmaster or Jothran Yolandus, the merchant. Eventually he will resort to poisoning the keep's well. His goal is to get Drell to abandon the keep rather than to try and take it by force, but if the opportunity presents itself he will certainly take it by force.
Area 9: Provisioner. This is a general store run by the military. It carries gear described in the player's handbook. He has no alchemical or magical gear of any kind, including sunrods. Darvus the provisioner should be treated as human rabble in combat. All gear is sold at PHB prices. He buys gear at 20% of PHB prices unless it is alchemical or magical, in which case he will pay 50%. He keeps 5 gp, 15 sp, and 30 cp on hand to make change during the day. He empties the till and takes all profits over to the bank each night. He has 112 gp saved up to buy goods with. He has a wife, Mary, and a young son, Darvus. They live in a room above the store. He does not sell weapons or armor.
7c: Braidla’s Home. When she is off duty, Braidla the maid at the tipsy mermaid keeps her own apartment here. 8
Area 10: Trader. Area 11: Mason's Bank . Marlin Drouhust supervises the warehouse activities and arranges for shipments of furs and other large quantities of trade goods. If the PC's look to dispose of items of value such as tapestries, furniture, furs, or other large or awkward (but non-magical) goods they will be directed to Marlin. He tries to arrange shipments into Cormyr each week, but wagons and transport are not so reliable. He always has at least one man at arms (from the keep garrison) with him, but usually has two nearby. He carries 6 gp, 12 sp, 5 cp with him. In his home and office he keeps a locked box with 18 pp, 165 gp, 213 sp, 524 cp. These all the funds that he has to buy trade goods from adventurers, though he may apply for a loan from the bank if anything of great interest appears. Bank Gas Trap Level 5 Blaster Trap 200 XP A cylinder of compressed poison gas is hidden in the door. Trap: A puff of gas emerges from the keyhole and quickly fills the chamber. Perception: ✦DC 27 to find the trigger mechanism. ✦DC 23 to see the hidden cylinder. Attack Initiative +2 Trigger: Forcing the lock or opening the door without the key, or a failed disable attempt. Gas Cloud: Standard Close Blast 3 Attack +8 vs. Fortitude. Hit: 1d10 poison damage and the target is immobilized (save ends). First failed save, the target is stunned (save ends). Second failed save, the target is unconscious. Choking gas (zone) The initial burst of gas creates a zone of poisonous gas that lasts for 1 minute. Anyone who starts their turn in the zone triggers a Gas Cloud attack. Countermeasures Thievery: DC 22 to disable. Any failure will trigger a gas cloud attack.
The bank is owned and operated by the Guild of Masons. See area 16. Geoff the Banker is a semi-retired adventurer. You can download a character sheet for him from www.dndcorner.com or use the statistics for a human berserker from the monster manual. He originally came to the keep with the curate (see area 17), but has found the Guild an attractive alternative. Despite his genial outward appearance, the half-elf has a deep love of battle and money, and defends the bank with all the zeal that originally drove him to paladin hood. The bank will provide savings, loans, and appraisal services. Savings: Opening an account is free to members of the Guild of Masons. For others the fee is 5 gold pieces annually (first year prepaid). This allows storage of coins and items of up to 1000gp value. The local bank here will not guarantee items worth more than that, though they will arrange for transport to a more secure bank in Cormyr for a fee of 50gp. An early withdrawal penalty of 10% (of the withdrawn amount) applies to all withdrawals made before 30 days. They will also provide a note of transfer of accounts to other branches throughout most civilized lands. Loans: Interest rate is 10% per month. Loans up to 5 gp can be obtained without security. Anything over that requires security of 150% the loan's value. Appraisal services: Charge is 1% of the item's value, 1 gp minimum.
The safe upstairs holds 50 gp, 100 sp, 200 cp at the start of business. This is cash kept for normal daily transactions. There are always 6 men at arms stationed in the bank. Each of them has a whistle loud enough to alert other members of the guard. There is 9
Crossbow Turret Level 3 Blaster Trap XP 150 Small repeating crossbows fire bolts from a hidden location above the compartment. Trap: Two crossbows attack each round on their initiative after they are triggered. Perception ✦ DC 20: The character notices the trigger mechanism. ✦ DC 25: The character notices the location of the hidden crossbow. ✦ DC 25: The character notices the location of the hidden control panel within the stora ge vault. Attack Initiative +3 Trigger: The trap activates and rolls initiative when a character opens a trapped storage compartment. Standard Ranged 10 Attack + 8 vs. AC Targets: Each crossbow attacks one intruder. It magically discerns intruders from members of the Mason’s Guild. Hit: 2d8 + 3 damage Countermeasures ✦ A character can attack a turret (AC 16, other defenses 13; hp 38). Destroying a turret stops its attacks. ✦ Thievery DC 22 to deactivate the control panel. Storage Compartments 1. empty 2. This has Brian Blackforge's life savings: 277 gp, a potion of healing, 3 gems worth 150 gp each. 3. A gold altar service worth 1200 gp, which belongs to the chaplain. 4. Has the same trapping mechanism as the main door. This contains 51pp, 2213 gp, 1212sp, 3214cp. These are the total resources of the keep at the moment. 5. A small gold statue of a harpy worth 155 gp, a ritual book containing gentle repose, animal messenger, water walk, and detect secret doors. These are the
usually at least one other person in the bank besides Geoff. Geoff takes his lunches with Harnost, the guild master. A locked, barred, and trapped door leads to the vaults below the bank. Anyone opening the door without the key will trigger a poison gas trap. The trap is exceptionally well hidden and requires a DC 25 perception check (must be actively looking) in order to locate the control mechanism. The Thievery DC to pick the lock after the trap has been dealt with is 22. The vault beneath the bank contains 12 l ocked storage compartments. The DC to pick these locks is 22.
10
6.
7.
8.
9.
10. 11. 12.
personal property of Harnost the banker. 15pp, 38 gp, 96 sp, 14 cp, all in individual sacks. These are personal property of Geoff. 7pp, 14 gp, a gold and pearl ring worth 650 gp, a pair of jade earrings worth 365 gp. These are the personal property of Lord Drell. 3 pearls worth 500 gp, 5 garnets worth 50 gp, a jade and gold ring worth 285 gp. These are property of Jothran Yolandus. Has a magic crossbow turret trap See DMG page 88. The trap guards an alabaster and gold statue worth 3000 gp inside of a finely crafted wood and silk case inlaid with silver worth 600 gp. These items are property of the Guild of Masons being held for transport. 6pp, 65 gp - The savings of Havlom Prince empty A sack with 58 pp and 76 silver pieces. These are savings of Marlin Drouhust.
Area 13: Fountain Square: The fountain is where general announcements and public meetings are held. There are usually a few off-duty guardsmen here.
Area 14: Bravol's Inn. Bravol is a rather thin, unhealthy looking man who maintains the inn because he thought it would generate some income. He owes the mason’s guild a mortgage and has g ambling debts to pay. Bravol is a quiet man who will simply point to the sign when asked about room. Room 1 gp/night, includes bread and cheese. Meals served next door. Bravol is a greedy man, already bought by Chant Havelove. He could care less about anyone other than himself and pays his debts only out of fear. Given an opportunity, he will swipe any valuables left lying around and quickly give them to his debtors.
In general the bank is very closely watched. 3 guards will arrive each round after the whistle blows. Damling Hammerhand will arrive after 3 rounds and will begin directing their efforts.
Area 15: The Tipsy Mermaid. This tavern is usually full of off-duty guards. The few women in the keep generally stay at home. Havlom Prince owns and operates the establishment. He employs Braidla as a maid and waitress. Everyone comes here for rest and relaxation as there is little else to do on the keep.
Area 12: Watchtower. Phillip, the captain of the watch lives and works here. He handles the duty rosters of the guards. In total the keep houses a garrison of 30 men at arms, not including officers. Phillip is an active adventurer who has taken the job because he enjoys the wild lands. Once things settle in and a suitable replacement can be found Phillip would like to explore the monastery across the river. For the present he has promised Lord Drell that he will remain with the keep until it is more established. Other than his gear, Phillip has a box w ith 6pp, 38 gp, 64 sp, and a case of brandy worth 55 gp.
Meals can be purchased for 3 sp. Ale, beer, or mead for 5 cp, wine for 1 sp. Drinks are also available by the pitcher or bottle. Havlom deposits the previous days earnings at the bank each morning. He keeps 5 gold and 35 silver on hand to make change.
Area 16: Guild of Masons.
11
The guild of masons runs everything nonmilitary in the keep. They control taxation, commerce, public works, and anything else that Lord Drell doesn't want to deal with. They issue all permits, oversee general construction activities and supervise appointments of public servants. The compromise is that they are not allowed any of their personal military within the keep. They pay for all of their military support through Lord Drell.
some among them were secret members of his organization. He will offer the PC's 50gp for information about the partrol and an additional 50gp for each rescued survivor. If they can secure the trade routes either by exterminating the entire caves, or by some treaty, he will award them all lifetime guild members hip and an additional 100 gp. Harnost gets along pleasantly with Chant Havelove, the supposed priest, but he has suspicions about the priest's authenticity and purposes. At the moment his suspicions are only a hunch and he has kept t he private because he has no proof and c annot think of a reason why the priest would be this far from the rest of civilization. He has his assistants watch the priest, but so far has not been able to search his apartments or find any evidence, though he does know that Chant is sending messenger pigeons to someone.
For those of you familiar with Forgotten Realms, you will realize that this guild is something of my own creation. They are a commerce and trade guild with small holdings throughout Faerun. They deal in organized crime where it is prudent to do so, but do not consider themselves mercenary or powerful enough to challenge other major organizations. They dabble in politics only enough to help trade. Their hold in Drells' keep is unusual, and therefore all the more important to the organization. Should the keep become strong enough this will likely become their international headquarters.
Harnost has three assistants that work and live in the guild hall. In addition Geoff, the banker lives in the guild hall. They have private apartments on the second floor. Their offices are located on the bottom floor.
Harnost is the guild master here. If you aren’t downloading the character sheet from www.dndcorner.com, then use the statistics for a Halfling prowler from the monster manual. He is a shrewd but friendly halfling who has risen through the ranks of the guild by careful planning and hard work. He has plans to extend the guild's reach into the more unseemly side of society. Already he has quietly garnered support and controls the gambling and prostitution through the inn and tavern. He has made arrangements to have additional women brought to the keep, and they should begin arriving within the next 10 or 15 days. Harnost likes Kavmen Drell, and enjoys the keep. He has no desire to assume military authority here and believes that increasing trade and commerce will benefit everyone.
Trade access: The guild can get just about any item through its trade network, provided the PC's are willing to wait and are willing to pay. In general it will take 10 days for every 1000gp or less of value for any object that they order.
Area 17: The Chapel. The chapel is a small affair, and is de dicated more to goodness and military might than to any particular deity. Curtis, the chaplain is a long time friend and adventuring companion of Lord Drell. He lives here with his young wife. Together they administer healing and comfort to those who need it. They perform ceremonial rights for a variety of deities, but encourage the worship of Amaunator above others.
Harnost has access the scouting reports on the Caves of Chaos and surrounding areas. The last patrol sent to the caves did not return, and 12
In addition to his adventuring gear, Curtis keeps 8 gp, 15 sp on his person. He keeps 6 healing potions ready,
Area 20: Guard Tower: This tower would house 24 guards w hen full, but now only houses 8. The corporals of the guard are here, both 2nd level fighters.
The chapel has been surrounded with a m agic circle (see PHB for ritual description) against shadow, and an undead ward (see PHB for ritual description).
Area 21: Inner Bailey . This is the courtyard in front of the keep's main tower. Here the soldiers drill and train.
Curtis spends most of his time working on his alchemical and ritual research. Drell has allocated him 25 gp per month for his research duties. Curtis hopes to surround the entire keep with magic protection. Drell relies heavily on Curtis for decisions, particularly difficult cases of judgment. Curtis no longer entertains thoughts of adventuring, but prefers to help build the community and add a touch of magic to the keep.
Area 22: Cavalry Stables . There are 6 horses stabled here, all property of the military. They are used by Drell and his officers as necessary. They are not for sale. There are 4 attendants (all commoners) on duty to attend to the horses during the day.
Area 23: Great tower.
Areas 18 through 27 are the areas of the inner bailey and towers. The guards here may be posted to the outer walls as well, depending on duty arrangements. The captain of the watch and the captain of the guard both work closely together to coordinate efforts.
This is identical to area 20 above.
Area 24: The Keep Fortress. This is a tall, thick, imposing structure with only a few dark rooms inside. It is kept clean, neat, and business runs like a clock here. There are quarters here for the scribe, advisor, and for Lord Drell.
Area 18: Inner gatehouse. The inner gatehouse has quarters for the captain of the guard and the sergeant of the guard. Only those possessing an invitation, or accompanied by Lord Drell, Essentia Nells, Freela, Harnost, Curtis, or one of the sergeants or captains, will be allowed through. There are no exceptions to this rule, though messages may be passed on. The sergeant is a 3rd level fighter, the captain is a 4th level fighter. Both are loyal to Lord Drell, and attend to their business. Neither of them is interested in the PC's. The matter of the caves pertains more to the outer bailey.
Area 25: Tower. 40' high tower with battlements pierced for arrows.
Area 26: Central towers. Here are the scribe, Freela, a Genasi Bard, and Essentia Nells, an Eladrin wizard who acts as an advisor. Neither Freela or Essentia Nells owes Lord Drell any particular loyalty, but they both enjoy the keep and respect Drell for his leadership ability.
Area 19: Small Tower .
Freela came to the keep when she heard about Drell's commission. She is interested in new lands and new stories. She spends all of her
The typical tower houses 8 guards, first level fighters.
13
free time visiting with newcomers and listening to what they have to say. She enjoys her job as scribe because she gets to hear first hand all of the accounts of important events in the keep.
and to control illegal activities in the keep and report it to her she will reward them 50 gp, and bring the matter before Lord Drell. She will help them supplant the guild if they encourage her or indicate an interest - providing they do not wish to engage in illegal or immoral activities.
She respects her job, but will give out information if it seems appropriate to do so. She is aware of the lost patrol, and will give any information to the PC's that she thinks will help. She knows that orcs, goblins and kobolds have all been spotted in the area of the caves of chaos. In addition she knows that campfires have been spotted across the river and that there has been activity of some group of humanoids to the south of the kee p.
Area 27: Castellan's chambers. This is where Lord Kavmen Drell resides. Typically he is not here, except to hold council or to debate difficult matters. He spends most of his time visiting his officers and advisors. When he meets with the PC's to issue them their charter, he will do so at the inner bailey gate. Requests to see him will go through a chain of command, and the PC's will be shown to Essentia Nells first. She will have Freela record their report and decide if the matter needs Drell's direct attention. Kavemen Drell wants the keep to succeed more than life itself. He is ambitious and believes that his best work is to serve Cormyr and to bring civilization to uncivilized places. He understands the use of mercenaries, and believes that the PC's can be useful to his purposes. He will try to earn their loyalty if they prove useful.
Essentia Nells is an Eladrin here to help out Lord Drell. You may download her character sheet from www.dndcorner.com or use the statistics for an Eladrin Twilight Incanter found in the monster manual. Essentia Nells also came to the keep looking for stories, but stories that tell about the history of Faerun and the world at large. She advises Lord Drell on matters of longevity and persistence of the keep. She understands that his short life will be but a moment to the stone walls of the keep and she wishes to bring beauty and strength to the land as well as power and majesty. She has claimed the keep as her own. She does not wish to rule it, but will do all in her power to see that those who do rule it do so with its continued existence in mind. She will help the PC's in their endeavors so long as their goals match those of the keep. She knows that a short term extinction in the caves will be temporary at best, and would rather see those creatures brought to productive service and commerce with the keep.
Initially he will offer the PC's 50gp for information about a patrol that was lost 3 days ago in the area of what the people of the keep are calling the caves of chaos. The patrol consisted of 6 members, Hamron, Bliss, Fornst, Robert, Gilpack, and Unther a corporal. They went on foot with provisions for ten days. If the PC's press for more money, he will direct them to Harnost who is offering additional rewards. Lord Drell does not believe there are any survivors and so does not offer a reward. If they turn up any survivors, he will offer them 50 gp per survivor.
Essentia despises the Mason's guild and is working quietly to gather resources to supplant them economically. She is working to bring in other trade organizations, and will offer the PC's discounts if they will trade through people other than the mason's guild. If the PC's discover Harnost's plans to increase prostitution
He will explain that he needs the caves cleared for mining. He would like an accurate map of the caves as well as any indications of mining activity, recent or past. If he can secure the 14
mines, he offers the PC's 10% interest in the mining profits (which will come to 50 gp per month starting a month after the caves are
cleared). If pressed for cash now, he will buy offer them a flat 500gp.
15
16
Part Three: Adventures Outside of the Keep The Swamp and Lizardmen
Name
Level Type
XP
2 Greenscale Hunters
4
Skirmisher
350
The swamps to the southeast of the keep are
2 Visejaw Crocodiles
4
Soldier
350
inhabited by a small tribe of lizardmen.
1 Vine Horror
5
Controller
200
Encounter Level
4
Total
900
Level Type
XP
Normally the lizardmen are not hostile and do not hunt outside of the boundaries of their
Lizardman Mound
territory, however they will defend their homes
Name
and lives if they are threatened in any way (such
1 Greenscale Marsh
as an adventuring party poking around).
Mystic
If the PC’s decide to explore the swamp, then they will encounter the three patrols in succession, one each 12 hours. After two days of searching they will stumble upon the
6
Controller
250
2 Blackscale Bruisers
6
Brute
500
1 Greenscale Darter
5
Lurker
200
2 Greenscale Hunters
4
Skirmisher
350
Encounter Level
6
Total
1300
Lizardman encampment. The Mad Hermit
The lizardmen are not particularly intelligent and are completely uninterested in what is
The mad hermit can be found in any wilderness
going on in the keep. If the players attempt to
area around the keep. He travels the area and
negotiate with them they will ask the players to
will track the steps of the party when he finds
leave their swamps.
them. The hermit is curious, but also potentially deadly.
Patrol 1 Name
Level Type
XP
The hermit has spent his life hunting and
1 Visejaw Crocodile
4
Soldier
175
1 Spitting Drake
3
Artillery
150
recently succumbed to dementia and
1 Greenscale Darter
5
Lurker
200
loneliness. He often talks to himself as well as
Encounter Level
1
Total
525
to inanimate objects. When he approaches the
trapping in the area around the keep. He has
party he will act friendly, but will attack with Patrol 2 Name
the slightest provocation, focusing his rage on Level Type
XP
1 Greenscale Darter
5
Lurker
200
2 Greenscale Hunters
4
Skirmisher
350
6
Controller
250
3
Total
800
1 Greenscale Marsh Mystic Encounter Level
the one character that has offended him. The hermit always carries a treasure (choose at random from the list of treasures in section 6). Name
Patrol 3
17
Level Type
XP
1 Mad Hermit
8
Elite Brute
700
Encounter Level
2
Total
700
The Raiders
Random Encounters
The raiders are led by a human swordmage
If you are fond of random encounters, then the
called Tandoro. He is loyal to Simiobolt because
following encounters can be used outside of the
the deranged cleric pays very well. He cannot
keep.
be trusted, but will follow orders as l ong as d20 roll 1 2-3 4-5 5-6 7-8 9-10 11-12 13-14 15-16 17 18 19 20
money continues to come. At the beginning of the adventure his band consists of: Name
Level Type
XP
2 Elf Archer
2
Artillery
250
1 Human Guard
3
Soldier
150
1 Human Mage
4
Artillery
175
2 Halfling Thief
2
Skirmisher
250
4 Human Bandits
2
Skirmisher
500
Total
1325
Name The Hermit Lizardman Patrol 1 2d4 Kobold skirmishers 2d4 Goblin warriors 1d4 Gnoll marauders 2d3 Hobgoblin Soldiers 1d4 Bugbear Stranglers 4d4 Stirges 1d4 Fey Panthers 2d4 Human Bandits 1d4 Dire Wolves 1d3 Dire Boars 1 Werewolf
As the adventure progresses it is entirely
To choose a random treasure just roll 1d10 and
possible that the group will grow, adding
choose a treasure from the treasure list for the
various humanoids as time goes on.
appropriate party level.
If the party explores the roads near the keep for a couple of days they will encounter the raiders. Likewise if they have somehow found out about the raiders they will know more or less where to look. Tandoro keeps the camp moving from day to day and will continue to do so until t hey reach around twenty in number at which point it will simply be easier to keep in one place. Tandoro will follow Chant Havelove or Simiobolt Hold’s orders. If his group is somehow wiped out he will look out for himself first and flee into the wilderness. He will not return to the area of the keep.
18
the day and are very active at night. The exception is the kobolds who are scurrying around the caverns doing work for everyone else while they sleep. If the PC's come at night then some of the guards will be out hunting or scavenging, or else partying ri otously. Some notes on general politics within the caves (I'll recap with each description of a cave area): The two tribes of orcs are allies. They have an active gang style war with the goblins and hobgoblins, who are also allies.
Part Four: The Caves of Chaos First a general description of the caves and how they work. For those of you who've played the original basic D&D module, you'll remember that they were a winding maze of narrow caverns. Well, that style of play can be a bit cumbersome to pull off with minis. So I more or less revised the map with that in mind. However, the update can be played just fine with the old map, just remember that everything may not fit. In order to keep the same crowded feel, however I did try to keep some of the passages narrow and some of the rooms small. Hopefully this will make for a variety of interesting and different combat situations.
The kobolds sell their services to everyone. Their services include janitorial, trap-making, maintenance, fetch and carry, and other menial tasks. They are on good terms with everyone, except the cult of Cyric. The bugbears also sell their services to anyone who can pay - but they don't come cheap. Thier services include assassinations, holding prisoners, torturing, and enforcement. They also run a small trading post.
My group likes to talk and interac t a lot with the bad guys rather than just bash them in so I've tried to include quite a few political/role-playing alternatives in the descriptions. Please be aware that this is designed for l ow level characters (3rd through 5th roughly), but to keep in theme with the original I went ahead and included some out of depth monsters. This means that when running the module you will need to be careful. Make sure the PC's understand that when they deal with the gnolls, for example, that they will have zero chance of winning a fight, and that they better take the minotaur seriously or he will crush them. If your players only do bash and grab, then you may want to manually tone down some of those encounters or you may want to just drop some sets of caves entirely. The orcs, kobolds, goblins, hobgoblins will all be fine. The bugbears, ogres, dark cavern, minotaur cave and temple of chaos will be challenging a nd may need a tweak. The gnolls are deadly dangerous.
The minotaur has no allies and hunts whatever comes his way. He is active at night and may be encountered outside of his cave if the PC's are exploring at night. This is also true of the owlbear, who generally sleeps during the day. The gnolls have no allies and have made no enemies. They are clearly the most powerful, having made an example of the previous occupants of the cave. They run a shop and keep an eye on everything within the caves. After the kobolds the gnolls are the most active during the day. They speak common and will actively choose to engage the PC's in conversation rather than start a combat. They are prepared to deal with anyone who comes with reasonable offers, including any of the other humanoids. The cult of Cyric is also active during the day, though generally they sleep late and stay up late. They are aware of the other humanoids, but do not deal with them much. They supply themselves by raiding travelers, rather than warring with the other occupants of the caves.
Please note that all of these creatures are nocturnal. They sleep or lounge during most of 19
They despise the orcs and goblins, but have some limited dealings with the gnolls. Their primary concern now is dealing with the keep.
The caves are located in a little narrow valley. The valley is filled with grass and trees. Wisps of smoke are visible coming at random out of the canyon walls. There are signs that some of the trees have been cut down. The area appears to be devoid of natural wildlife.
Fire Risk: There are fires in several of the rooms. These are usually rather open affairs next to rugs and other flammable stuff. The risk of anything becoming ignited is very high. If combat takes place in a square adjacent to a fire, there is a 5% chance (1 on d20) that a flammable object like a pillow or blanket has been accidentally kicked into the fire. If it ignites the fire will spread at the rate of 1 square in radius, extending from the point of origin, every round. A creature that starts its turn in a fire square takes 5 fire damage and any unattended flammable objects he or she wears will ignite. A character that takes 10 fire damage will continue to take 5 fire damage (from ignited clothes and smoke inhalation) after leaving the area (save ends). Smoke in fire squares provides concealment.
Cave decoration and description: A: A foul odor wafts out of this ca ve entrance. Bits of dirt, trash, and dung litter the area. Parts of the cave, up to about 4' high on the walls have been painted a variety of different colors using natural and manufactured dyes. The floor is also splattered with paint. A fait odor of perfume mixes with the other revolting smells. B: This cave is littered with many heads of several different humanoid races, including, dwarves, halflings, humans, elves, goblins (many goblins), kobolds, hobgoblins, and orcs. Some are more fresh than others. If the characters look closely they will discover that three of the human heads appear to be quite fresh. A perception check DC 20 will reveal to any character who received the description of the lost patrol that these heads match the description of three of the patrol members.
Lighting: The cave entrances are all unlit, though most have some decoration. It is clear to any character trained in nature or perception or who has a wisdom of 12 or higher that the area is travelled by humanoids frequently.
The heads are on the outside of the cave as well as the entrance to the cave and the entrance area. One of the heads is an actual live orc who is on watch here. A DC 22 perception check is required to notice that the head is not damaged like the others. The orc is on a raised platform and the PC's will have to climb up to inspect it closer. If anyone attempts to make this inspection, the orc will run to raise the alarm rather than risk getting stabbed in the eye.
Treasure: I have NOT included treasures in t he individual area descriptions. Rather, I will post a list of the possible treasures that the PC's can find. Because this is such an open-ended adventure (i.e. there is no way to know which caves the players will be interested in), I suggest handing out 2 or three of the treasures in each cavern complex. Be sure that the PC's get all of the level three treasures about the same time they get enough XP to reach level four and so forth.
C: This cave is littered with dried le aves and debris. D: This cave entrance has been swept clean. E: This cave entrance is hidden behind some very large trees. Sounds of something very
Area outside of the caves: 20
large moving can be heard. A DC 18 perception check will reveal grunts and growls. If the person speaks giant, they will understand the words "give it back, Bree," and "No, it's mine you jerk!"
including orcs, goblins, and kobolds. The cave itself has nothing of note about it. It appears to be a completely natural cavern. There are no footprints in the un-worked stone floor (though a DC 30 perception will reveal movements of a large hoofed creature). There are no small footprints leading into the cave. A DC 20 perception check will note 1 large hoof print near the cave entrance that is mostly obscured by the other small footprints.
F: The initial entrance to this cave has been swept clean, except for some obvious blood stains on the ground. A stout iron-reinforced door is here at the back of the cavern it is DC 20 to break through the door. Over the door is a sign in goblin and common "Come in for dinner!" The handwriting is very poor, and it appears to be written in blood.
J: The immediate entrance to this cave is a natural, un-worked cave that has nothing of note about it. DC 19 perception will reveal the presence of footprints that have been concealed. The guards are actively listening, however, and if the characters make much noise the guards will come to investigate. When they see that there are intelligent creatures they will put away t heir weapons and offer to talk.
G: This is a very dark cavern. It smells musty, even near the entrance. A DC 19 perception will reveal the sound of dripping water. H: There are a hodgepodge of signs adorning this entrance in common, goblin, draconic, and giant. All are very large with very large, neat lettering. All of them say "Top wages! Food and money! Report to the first guard on the left!"
K: To quote original text "Red strata intertwines with bulging black veins running through the hewn rock walls beyond the entrance. The wide corridors and chambers are deathly still. A faint groaning sound, and a shrill piping may be occasionally heard, barely perceptible even if the party is absolutely silent and listening." This cave has clearly been worked, even to the casual observer. In addition there is a faint smell of decay on their air, though it is by no means overpowering, and after a few moments inside the characters will get used to it.
I: The garden in front of this cave is neatly tended and organized. Rows of potatoes, turnips, beets, cabbages, carrots, and chard are visible. The pepper plants appear to have succumbed in the last frost. Small footprints are visible, and it is clear that whoever works this garden is of small size wearing poorly made shoes (Nature or Perception DC 17). A DC 18 nature check will reveal that bits of dung in the garden belong to various different creatures
21
Cave entrances are marked in pink and
The party will enter the valley at the east end.
indicated by red letters. The map can be a bit
There is an old road that leads to the caves
confusing until you think of each cave as an
from the keep (the caves used to be active
underground area inside of one of the hills. The
mines).
central area is the valley floor with trees and the kobold garden. The cave entrances are all
If you don’t like this map, then visit
up a bit higher on the hills. Caves B & C, for
http://www.dndcorner.com/downloads and
example are higher up on the hills than cave A.
find a copy of the original map there. The maps
Likewise Caves D and F are higher up than Cave
are substantially different. However the
E. Also caves K & I are higher up than cave G.
original map doesn’t work for miniature combat
Cave J is quite high up.
and is far too crowded to hold all of the creatures involved in this adventure.
22
Complex A - The kobold warrens.
His majesty King Ungblot the Mightily Witted rules the kobolds with an iron claw. That is to say nobody else wants the job after a rock fell on his predecessor and everyone believes the king's job to be cursed. They had to have a king, however, so they stole some dice and gambled for it - Ungblot lost.
Terrain: Terrain should be considered normal unless otherwise noted. Areas with furniture are difficult terrain and provide cover for any small creature that enters their square.
Area 1: Entrance and guards. The tradition of the kobolds is one of diplomacy, stealth, and hiding. They are purposely active when others are not, keeping a low profile when possible. They run a janitorial and maintenance service for all of the major tribes. If the PC's are exploring during the day they will encounter the kobolds from area 6 running tasks. If the PC's take time to explore the outside area of the caves, then this encounter will happen in the kobold gardens. Otherwise it will happen just outside of the first other cave the PC's are about to enter or spend any time exploring. At night all kobolds will be home.
Name 1 Kobold Slyblade (s) Monster Manual 1 Kobold Hurler (h) New Monster 2 Kobold Pikeman (p) New Monster Pit Trap See Below Encounter Level
Level Type
XP
4
Lurker
175
2
Artillery
125
2
Brute
250
1
warder
100
2
Total
650
The kobolds have constructed a pit trap across the entrance to their warren. This is a false floor pit trap see page 87 of the DMG. The kobolds have some boards nearby which are used to cross the pit safely. A character can make a DC 12 athletics or acrobatics check to move around the edge of the pit after it has been triggered.
Lighting: The kobold warrens are dark unless otherwise described. The kobolds actively use their darkvision.
23
If the kobolds hear the PC's coming they will send 1 pikeman out of the cave as an envoy.
Area 2: Trash Heap. Name
If the PC's talk, they will send for their king. The king will not come out himself (he is scared), but he will send word. If it is day, the king will invite the PC's to meet him at the gardens. If it is night, he will ask them to come back tomorrow. If they press, he will invite them to his chambers. The guards in area 1 will remain on post, but the guards from area 4 will crowd into the chief's area.
Level Type
XP
2 Stormclaw Scorpions (s)
1
soldier
200
2
skirmisher
250
1
Total
450
Monster Manual 2 Rat Swarm (r) Monster Manual Encounter Level
The source of the foul odors that come from the kobold cave is this room. The kobolds bring all of the refuse that they cannot otherwise use and dump it here. Over time it has attracted quite a bit of vermin, which the kobolds use in their traps and projects. The rats and scorpions will come out and attack if the trash is bothered by anyone other than the kobold vermin handler.
False-Floor Pit Level 1 Warder XP 100 Trap: The section of the floor hides a 10-foot-deep pit. Perception ✦ DC 20: The character notices the false stonework. Trigger The trap attacks when a creature enters the trapped square. Attack Immediate Reaction Melee Target: The creature that triggered the trap. Attack: +4 vs. Reflex Hit: Target falls into pit, takes 1d10 damage, and falls prone. Miss: Target returns to the last square it occupied and its move action ends immediately. Effect: The false floor opens and the pit is no longer hidden. Countermeasures ✦ An adjacent character can trigger the trap with a DC 10 Thievery check (standard action). The floor falls into the pit. ✦ An adjacent character can disable the trap with a DC 25 Thievery check (standard action). The floor becomes safe. ✦ A character who makes an Athletics check (DC 11, or DC21 without a running start) can jump over the pit. ✦ A character can climb out with a DC 15 Athletics check.
Area 3: Storage. Poison Dart Trap Level 1 Artillery XP 100 Trap: There is a spring loaded poison dart in the keyhole. ✦ DC 16: The character notices the dart mechanism. (requires active search) Trigger The trap attacks when a creature opens the door without the key Attack Immediate Reaction Melee Target: The creature that triggered the trap. Attack: Reach 2 +4 vs. Reflex Hit: 1d10 poison damage and ongoing 5 poison damage (save ends) Countermeasures ✦ DC 16 Thievery to disable ✦ The dart can be triggered at a distance..
The pikemen will use their reach to engage enemies across the pit while the hurler will attempt throw stuff from down the narrow passage. The Slyblade will hang back in hiding in the dark corridors and try to catch PC's from behind as they chase down the hurler.
This room has a door that is locked. Break DC is 16. Pick DC is 15 The kobold king has the key to the door. The door is also rigged with a poison dart that will trigger if the key is not used or the door is hit hard. It makes one attack . There is only one dart. If there is nobody adjacent to the door
If things go badly the hurler will flee for help.
24
when the trap triggers it has a range of 2 squares.
If the battle goes g oes poorly, the kobolds will attempt to flee in any direction they can find.
Inside of the room are a variety of sacks, crates, and barrels. Mostly stuffed with odds and ends gathered from the other tribes. There are pieces of fur, dried meat, bits of broken furniture, cracked mugs, wooden bowls, and other assorted junk. Nothing here has any any real market value, but the PC's should get the impression that the kobolds didn't make this stuff themselves and that most of it did not come from human lands.
Area 5: King's Throne Room. Name Dragonshield 2 Kobold Skirmisher Monster Manual 1 Kobold Slinger
Kobold Chieftain (c) Monster Manual Kobold Spiker (sp) New Monster 2 Kobold Slinger (s)
Level Type
Monster Manual encounter Level
Soldier
200
3
Controller
150
1
Artillery
200
1
Soldier
250
4
Total
800
2 Kobold Dragonshield (d) Monster Manual encounter Level
soldier
250
1
skirmisher
200
1
Artillery
100
1
Total
550
This is really just a den for practical jokes and gambling. The scene should should be described as chaotic. The kobolds will will be constantly constantly moving during any conversation, each vying for a better spot from which to listen. The chief is much more wise and experienced than he lets on. on. He has worked hard to establish peace and to ensure the longevity longevity of the the tribe. He encourages cunning, crafting, and practical jokes among his little tribe. He has chosen his guards more for their intelligence than for their strength.
XP
5
2
Monster Manual
Special NOTE: This area is NOT included in this version, but is part of the original. If you use a different map, then by all means include it.
Name
XP
2 Kobold
Area 4: Guards •
Level Type
If the PC's start a fight, the stronger kobolds will fight while the weaker ones will alert anyone else in the complex and then then flee. They will run to the garden area and hide there. If possible they will lure the PC's into the bugbear caverns or into the orcs in area C. There is a fire in the corner of this room that provides bright light and warmth to the room.
These guards usually sit around playing cards or dice. Since the selection of the new king they are all practicing their skills so that they won't be next. If the PC's are meeting with the king they will follow them to the king's chambers. Otherwise they will be here. If any of the guards escapes in area 1 they will alert the guards here.
King Ungblot the Mightily Witted will listen with interest to anything the PC's have to say. He doesn't know anything about mining, but will allow the PC's to explore his cavern for 5 gp in goods or coin. A DC 18 dungeoneering dungeoneering check will reveal that there is ore present and that a shaft could be started in area 4 or in area 3
There is a small fire here that the kobolds use to keep warm. The fire gives off bright light light in the room.
25
(though the PC's will likely have to kill t he vermin).
Convince Drell to Hire Kobolds Level 8 Skill Challenge XP varies (see below) You speak with the officials in Drell’s keep to convince them to hire the kobolds to work in Drell’s keep. Complexity: 3 (8 successes before 3 failures) Primary Skills Diplomacy – to convince the officials that the kobolds will be peaceful, especially demonstrating that the kobolds are curre ntly peaceful with the other humanoids. History – History – the characters can try to remind the keep’s residents that kobolds have a history of hard work in the area. Secondary Skills Bluff – any plausible lie Streetwise – the characters can learn that the miners in the area have previously hired the kobolds. Victory: The kobolds are hired and move into t he keep. The players are rewarded with treasure and XP equivalent to forcefully clearing out the keep. Defeat: The kobolds are not hired, but agree to move out for 25gp. The players are rewarded with ½ the treasure and XP of a success. Skills: Diplomacy DC 16, Bluff DC 17, Streetwise DC 17, History DC 15
The King will offer the services of his tribe to Lord Drell, performing the same work they do here, though he will slyly ask for much more money than he is currently getting. He will ask for the outrageous sum of 5 silvers per week for the services of his entire tribe, but will settle for 1 silver if the PC's haggle. Convincing Lord Drell to take the kobolds is a complexity 3 difficult skill challenge (8 successes before 3 failures DC 17). 17). Diplomacy, Bluff, and and Streetwise could all be put to good effect here. The successes must come from any of these possible sources, Lord Drell, Essentia Nells (advisor), Freela (scribe), Harnost (guild master) or Curtis (chaplain). (chaplain). There is endless room for role-playing this out, such as convincing Curtis that the kobolds seek to join j oin his flock or telling Freela that the kobolds have new and amazing stories to tell. If the PC's do get the kobolds into the keep (they will have to relocate to allow for mining to begin) award them with the same XP they would have received for defeating the entire tribe in combat. This will vary depending on if some of the k obolds are already dead. The PC's could then then find treasure packets in the abandoned kobold warrens or they could come as awards from Lord Drell. If Lord Drell is not willing to hire the kobolds (they fail the challenge), he will be willing to purchase the rights to the kobold warrens from them. He will offer 25 gold pieces for for them to leave. The kobolds will request that he he also give them a cart, a mule, and a permit to travel the king's road. road. Drell will will accept these terms. The kobolds will take every scrap that they can fit onto the cart and hea d south along the main road into Cormyr.
Please note that there are many other possible outcomes available here. here. The kobolds are very willing to negotiate. Also, once they vacate the area, the orcs from area B will immediately move in. They will send guards guards from area 8 and hire the bugbears from area 38 to begin squatting.
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This is the common sleeping area for the kobolds. They all share a great big fur fur rolled out in the room. room. There are several several pillows, blankets, as well as a large table and a couple of overstuffed sofas. The kobolds climb climb all over over and around the furniture at will. will. The kobold horde described here is really the mass of kobolds that do not qualify as guards or other important people. The scene should should be described as one of chaotic fear if the PC's enter this area when the kobolds are home. There is a fire burning at one end of the room in order to keep the place place warm. If a fire breaks out in the room the kobolds will immediately flee.
Area 6: Common Chambers. Name Kobold Horde (h) New Monster
Level Type
XP
6
Skirmisher
250
3
Artillery
150
4
Minion
100
1
Total
500
1 Kobold Vermin Handler (v) New Monster 4 Kobold Minion (m) Monster Manual encounter Level
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Cave B: Irontooth Orcs.
received the description of the lost patrol that these heads match the description of three of the patrol members. The heads are on the outside of the cave as well as the entrance to the cave and the entrance area. One of the heads is an actual live orc who is on watch here. A DC 22 perception check is required to notice that the head is not damaged like the others. The orc is on a raised platform and the PC's will have to climb up to inspect it closer. If anyone attempts to make this inspection, the orc will run to raise the alarm rather than risk getting stabbed in the eye.
Lighting: Orcs in 4th edition don't have darkvision, so they keep torches or fires burning to light their caverns when they are awake. During the day (which is the Orc's night) all passages will be dark. Areas 7, 8, 10, and 12 will be dimly light. Area 9 will be dark. At night (the Orc's day), all areas except area 11 will be brightly lit and all passages will be dimly lit. Area 11 will always be dark.
Terrain: If the PC's haven't learned it already, they will discover that they absolutely must not allow the monsters to band together or the will be overwhelmed by sheer numbers. If the PC's fight and then run away, the orcs will be much more watchful for the next month. Orc losses cannot be replaced, so it may become a tactic to whittle down the orcs bit by bit. Grimtooth, the chief and his guards will fight to the death if provoked, though the orc eye of Gruumsh (the tribe shaman) will lead away all the orc drudges (minions) to join the Fearclaw clan i f half the guards are killed.
Terrain should be considered normal unless otherwise noted. Areas with furniture are difficult terrain and provide cover for any small creature that enters their square.
Entrance: This cave is littered with many heads of several different humanoid races, including, dwarves, halflings, humans, elves, goblins (many goblins), kobolds, hobgoblins, and orcs. Some are more fresh than others. If the characters look closely they will discover that three of the human heads appear to be quite fresh. A perception check DC 20 will reveal to any character who 28
bluff/diplomacy check will convince the guards to take them to their chief (in area 12).
Area 7, Guard Room:
Name 2 Orc Berserker (b) Monster Manual 3 Orc Raider (r) Monster Manual encounter Level
Level
Type
XP
4
Brute
350
3
Skirmisher
450
3
Total
800
DM Note: If this goes to combat, this could very easily involve the whole tribe, taking this to an encounter level 7 or even an encounter level 12. Be sure to play the orc tactics at a level appropriate to the party.
Area 8: Guard Room Name
The watcher in the alcove of area 8 ducks down and slips another orc head in his place as soon as the PC's turn their back. He will alert the other guards in area 8.
Level
Type
XP
4
Brute
350
3
Skirmisher
450
3
Total
800
2 Orc Berserker (b) Monster Manual 3 Orc Raider (r) Monster Manual encounter Level
The guards in area 7 will be very tired during the day, and will take a -2 to any perception checks that they make until fully roused. At night they will be wary. If the PC's make no overt threats, they may attempt diplomacy to convince the guards to find someone in c harge. If the watcher has alerted the guards in area 8, they will set up an ambush in t he passages between areas 8 and 9. They will hold their ground, allowing the guards in area 7 to handle the situation. The guards in area 7 will attempt to push or lure the PC's into the ambush. If the sounds of combat die down, the guards will wait for one of their comrades. After 2 rounds if nobody comes they will send someone to alert their chief in area 12. The chief will come to join his guards and send the messenger to alert the rest of the tribe in area 10.
This guard room is set up very much like area 7. The guards here tend to play more dice and cards and rely heavily on the watcher. They take a -2 to their perception checks at all times because they are focused on their gambling. If alerted they will attempt to work an ambush. They will try to take advantage of the darkness in area 9 when setting their ambush.
Area 9: Banquet Hall. This area is cluttered with tables and chairs. This room should be considered difficult terrain, and it is dark during the day. The tables are cluttered with dishes and scraps of food. Nobody is in this room right now.
There is a fire burning here, and the area is cluttered. There is a risk of fire if combat takes place in squares adjacent to the fire. If the PC's try to negotiate, a they will have to speak Giant. Or become creative in how they act (putting away weapons, offering gifts etc.) Only the chief, and the shaman speak common. The Bluff/Diplomacy DC is 15 to convince the guards not to attack. The PC's can retreat without harm, though they will be warned not to come back. Another successful
Area 10: Common Quarters. Name
10 Orc Drudges (d) Monster Manual 1 Orc Eye of Gruumsh (g) Monster Manual encounter Level
29
Level
Type
XP
4
minion
440
5
controller
200
2
Total
650
This is where everyone sleeps. There are beds for the guards, but they will be empty as the guards will be on duty. The drudges and Hagnoth the shaman spend much of their time here. If you are running a more mature game, then this area would also be treated as an orc brothel.
Grimtooth and his two concubines live here. He values the females for their ferocity and strength. The floor is covered with furs, and a fire in the corner keeps things warm. A tapestry conceals a secret door leading to area 13 and another tapestry covers the small alcove to the west. The alcove is used as a treasury. If the PC's gain an audience with him, he will happily negotiate. Otherwise he will fight to the death.
If the PC's have somehow managed to reach this area without alerting the entire tribe, then Hagnoth will first attempt to negotiate. The drudges here should be played as women and children. In combat they will reach for any improvised weapon they can. It should be clear to the PC's that they are cutting down innocent bystanders with no aggressive intentions.
At this point it should be noted that this combat is going to be extremely difficult for a 3rd level party, if not impossible. If combat is going to happen there are different ways of making it easier:
If the PC's convince Hagnoth that the guards are dead (either through truth or lies), he will ask to take the women and children to safety. If allowed he will take them to Cave C area 15. If the orcs in cave C are dead he will lead them into the wilderness and eventually join up with the raiders.
•
•
•
Having the bloodragers (guards) be out scouting and return later. Have the PC's come in during a conflict, i.e. one of the concubines attacks him in a jealous rage or they both attack him to try to supplant him. The Chieftain is sick and unable to fight.
Area 11: Storage. In any instance modify XP appropriately. If the PC's choose to negotiate, and come before him in peaceful terms it should be clear that he is a powerful adversary and will have to be dealt with carefully.
The door is locked. Chief Grimtooth has the key. This is a storage area full of food and supplies. There are two battle axes here in good condition, but otherwise there is nothing of real value here. The dried meat is from different animals and humanoids. The alcohol in the barrels appears to have been made with beets.
If the PC's try to negotiate a deal to explore the caves for ore, he will charge them 10 gp, and allow them to search every room (under guard), except his own quarters. The treasure room, however, is the only room that shows signs of ore.
Area 12: Chief's quarters. Name
1 Orc Chieftain (c) Monster Manual 2 Orc Bloodragers (b) Monster Manual encounter Level
Level
Type
XP
8
Brute
700
7
Brute
1200
8
Total
1900
He is willing to hire his guards out as mercenaries to Drell (or pretty much anyone), but Drell will not hire them at any cost. If the PC's try to negotiate a deal to hire the orcs as mercenaries for the keep, allow them to start a skill challenge, but they will fail. After their failure, Chant Havelove will approach the PC's and offer to negotiate with the orcs. Chant will attempt to recruit the orcs to fight for the cult 30
of Cyric. He will convince the orcs to take their stuff and join the raider camp. If this happens, the shaman will lead the drudges into the wilderness and the military orcs will all join t he raiders.
Convince Grimtooth to Leave Level 8 Skill Challenge XP 1750 You talk to Grimtooth and Hagnoth of the Irontooth clan to convince them to leave their caves. Complexity: 3 (8 successes before 3 failures) Primary Skills Diplomacy – to convince Grimtooth or Hagnoth that it is in their best interest to leave. Bluff – any plausible lie. Secondary Skills Intimidate – convince Hagnoth that the caves are too dangerous. Using intimidate on Grimtooth is an automatic failure. Streetwise – the characters learn from the orcs that they some of the men are tired of fighting the hobgoblins. History – the characters recall a story about an orc called Bragtooth who is looking for recruits to the south. Victory: The orcs will accept 100gp and agree to leave. Defeat: The orcs refuse to leave. They order the characters out of their caves and are hostile. Skills: Diplomacy DC 17, Bluff DC 16, Intimidate DC 16, Streetwise DC 18, History DC 18
Chant's negotiations should appear to be positive. He will say that he convinced the clan to move south. The PC's should be rewarded with XP and treasure for clearing out the cave area successfully. It is important that the players believe that they have succeeded here in order for Chant’s bluff to be successful. (Yes this is called metagaming and sometimes the DM has to do it too). If the PC’s instead attempt to negotiate to get the orcs to move out peacefully, follow the skill challenge above. The orcs will leave if they are paid 100gp. When they leave, however, they will find the raiders and be rec ruited as mercenaries for the cult of Cyric. Again, reward the players for their successful negotiations. The PC's can also ally themselves with the orcs to attack the goblins and hobgoblins. Managing such a large group in the narrow tunnels might be difficult, but it could be managed. These orcs did not attack or kill the patrol that was sent. They pay the kobolds to bring them heads. If asked about the heads they will refer to the kobolds. The kobolds will inform the PC's that they heads were collected in the hobgoblin caves.
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Area C: Fearclaw clan.
shoddy raft and many of the orcs drowning in icy waters.
This cave is littered with dried leaves and debris. This debris has been placed here intentionally, and anyone with a DC 18 perception will notice this. The debris makes sneaking very difficult (stealth at -4).
Lighting: During the day the halls are dark and the rooms are dimly lit by small stoked fires. At night time, when the orcs are active the halls are dimly lit and the rooms are brightly lit.
The Fearclaw orcs are much more subtle and sneaky than their cousins. They have strung a series of tripwires throughout their halls (marked with red lines on the photo above). The perception DC to spot a tripwire is 20, but can be disabled with a DC 15 thievery check. Tripping a tripwire causes a clutter of debris to fall that makes a loud noise which will aler t the guards in room 14 and 15.
Terrain: Terrain should be considered normal unless otherwise noted. Areas with furniture are difficult terrain and provide cover for any small creature that enters their square.
The Fearclaw orcs originally migrated here from the abbey across the river. When the dragon began enslaving the humanoids there they fled here. None of the orcs like to talk about that past and won't bring it up. If asked they will simply say that life is better now than before. If pressed, any of them might reveal that they fled a dragon beneath the abbey across the river. If asked how they managed to cross the river, they will tell a terrifying story of building a
Area 13, Secret meeting Room: This is a secret room linking the chieftains of the two orc tribes. It is essentially empty, but if either chief is hard pressed they will flee here to get help. This room is always dark.
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These are the quarters of chief Gripclaw and his fellows. Gripclaw is at heart lazy. He has no real desire to fight with the PC's and no real desire to negotiate either. If they walk away and leave him alone he will be perfectly content. However it will be immediately obvious to anyone with any mining experience that these caves hold the most promise. If pressed to negotiate with Lord Drell, Gripclaw will agree to leave for 100 gp. He will not accept any offers for mercenary work, but Chant Havelove will seek to participate in negotiations if approached. Chant won't be able to convince them the join his side, however, Gripclaw can be bribed to give away Chant's intentions.
Area 14, Common Hall: Name
Level
Type
XP
6 Orc Drudges (d) Monster Manual 2 Orc Berserker (b) Monster Manual encounter Level
4
Minion
264
4
Brute
350
2
Total
614
If any of the wires are tripped, the orcs here will be armed and ready. The orcs will not immediately attack. If they are not provoked, they will direct the PC's to the chieftain. Then they will move to block the exits.
Convince Gripclaw to Leave Level 8 Skill Challenge XP 1750 You negotiate with Chief Gripclaw to convince him to leave his caves. Complexity: 3 (8 successes before 3 failures) Primary Skills Diplomacy – to convince Gripclaw that it is in his best interest to leave. Bluff – any plausible lie. Secondary Skills Streetwise or History – the characters learn from the orcs that his men would like to try to return to the abbey. Victory: The orcs will accept 100gp and agree to leave. Defeat: The orcs refuse to leave. They order the characters out of their caves and are hostile. Skills: Diplomacy DC 17, Bluff DC 16, Streetwise DC 17, History DC 19
Area 15: Lounge Name
Level
Type
XP
1 Orc Bloodrager (b) Monster Manual 4 Orc Drudge (d) Monster Manual encounter Level
7
Elite Brute
600
4
Minion
175
3
Total
775
The bulk of the orc population hangs out here. If no wires have been tripped they will be found eating, drinking, and relaxing. Otherwise they will behave like the orcs in area 14.
Area 16: Gripclaw Name
Level
Type
XP
2 Orc eye of Gruumsh (g) Monster Manual Orc Chieftain (c) Monster Manual 2 Orc Berserker (b) Monster Manual encounter Level
5
Controller
400
8
700
4
Elite Brute Brute
7
Total
1450
The skill challenge requires at least 2 successes with Gripclaw as well as 1 success with an NPC from the keep (to convince them to pay the 100 gold).. In other words they can’t simply have 8 successes with only one side.
350
If the PC’s have worked a deal to unite the orc clans against the goblins, Gripclaw will join in an
33
attack on the goblins if the P C's can convince Grimtooth to approach him personally.
losing everything in the process will stir the bitter taste of revenge in Gripclaw.
If the tribe faces extinction, Gripclaw will take any remaining followers, including any of the orcs from area B, and flee into the wilderness.
If the PC's attack and withdraw, Gripclaw will try to evaluate their strength. If none of his men were killed he will try to improve his defenses and stay alert. If he lost men, he will consider hiring the bugbears or ogres to help him out. If he lost more than 40% of his force, he will flee.
Whatever his reason for leaving, if the raiders are still alive Gripclaw will find them and j oin them. Being driven from his home again and .
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Cave D: Goblins & Cave E Ogres
The goblins will not talk. They are fiercely territorial and under the thumb of the hobgoblins. However, they will not fight to the death.
The PC's may end up with a bunch of prisoners this way. Having them role-play what to do could be an interesting dynamic. The goblins have committed no crimes against the keep that can be proven. If tried, they will blame the lost patrol's death on the hobgoblins, and any kobolds involved will corroborate their story. Lord Drell doesn't want them around, but he won't kill them because they haven't really done anything wrong. The keep laws won't allow them to remain in the keep without employment, but they have nowhere to go.
They will surrender or attempt to surrender in any given battle if they fail a moral saving throw. Make these checks for each creature, once when the first goblin is killed in a combat and again when half of the creatures have been killed. Those of you who played basic D&D back in the day may recall this use of the morale rule.
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Any prisoners that escape or are turned loose will join the raiders.
There is a 50% chance that the goblin blackblade will remember his instructions to alert are 23.
Note that if the hobgoblins are dealt with first, the goblins will try to make peace with the PC's and save their own necks
Area 18: Guard Room. Name 10 Goblin Cutter Monster Manual 1 Goblin Blackblade Monster Manual 1 Goblin Skullcleaver Monster Manual encounter Level
This cave entrance has been swept clean. The goblins are neat and tidy (mostly because i f they aren't the hobgoblins will whip them).
Lighting: All areas are lit with bright light. The goblins keep oil lanterns burning along the walls at all hours.
Terrain:
Level 1
Type Minion
XP 250
1
Lurker
100
3
Brute
150
1
Total
500
The guards will attack on sight.
Terrain should be considered normal unless otherwise noted. Areas with furniture are difficult terrain and provide cover for any small creature that enters their square.
These goblins are much better trained than those in area 17. These will also probably be the first goblins the PC's encounter. During the first round one goblin will run to t he secret door and shout "Bree-yark" into the ogre cave. He will also toss in a bag of coins. Bree is the ogre's name, and yark is giant for help. Bree, the ogre skirmisher will then push open the secret door and join the fight. If the goblins surrender, the ogre will move back to her lair if possible, assuming that the battle is over. If the PC's try to stop her she will fight to the death, calling through the door for her mate, who will then come and help.
DM NOTE: At first glance these encounters may seem a bit underpowered for a 3rd to 5th level party, however the quarters are quite cramped and it is highly likely that from the moment the characters step inside the caves they will have a constant fight. Goblins in area 18 will join those in 17, possible adding those in 19, 20, and 21. A simple level 1 encounter can turn into a level 5 or 7 encounter in a hurry!
Area 19: Common room.
Area 17: Guard Room. Name 3 Goblin Blackblade (b) Monster Manual 2 Goblin Sharpshooter (s) Monster Manual encounter Level
Level 1
Type Lurker
XP 300
2
Artillery
250
1
Total
550
Name 2 Goblin Warrior (w) Monster Manual 2 Goblin Sharpshooter (s) Monster Manual 1 Goblin Blackblade (b) Monster Manual encounter Level
The guards will attack on site.
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Level 1
Type Skirmisher
XP 200
2
Artillery
250
1
Lurker
100
1
Total
550
These goblins spend their time avoiding hobgoblins. They will scream and holler before attacking. One of them will try to run and alert their king in area 20. This room is piled high with pillows and furs. There is a small table, but no chairs. Fires in opposite corners of the room keep the room warm and well lit. There is a high risk of fire in this room i f fighting gets close to the fire places.
cult of Cyric, the minotaur, the gnolls, or the owlbear.
Area 21: Storage
Name 3 Goblin Blackblade (b) Monster Manual 2 Goblin Sharpshooter (s) Monster Manual encounter Level
Area 20: The goblin King
Name 1 Goblin Underboss (u) Monster Manual 2 Goblin Skullcleaver (s) Monster Manual 1 Goblin Hexer (h) Monster Manual encounter Level
Level 4
Type Elite Controller
XP 350
3
Brute
300
3
Controller
150
3
Total
800
Level 1
Type Lurker
XP 300
2
Artillery
250
1
Total
550
The goblins keep a guard up in their storage area because stuff has been disappearing. They have yet to figure out that the hobgoblins are doing it (why would the people t hat deliver the goods steal the goods?) The guards will attack on site. There is a secret door here that the hobgoblins use to get in and take what they want. Perception DC 18 to find it.
The goblin king is really just a pawn of the hobgoblins. He is more afraid of them than of anything else. He will fight for his own life and to avoid being killed by the hobgoblins.
Cave E Area 22 Ogre cave.
Name 1 Ogre Skirmisher (s) Monster Manual 1 Ogre Savage (b) Monster Manual encounter Level
If the PC's subdue him and his guards and manage to take them prisoner, he will cooperate with them only if t hey successfully intimidate him. They must make a DC 24 intimidate check in order for this to happen (They have to beat the hobgoblin king's intimidate).
Level 8
Type Skirmisher
XP 350
8
Brute
350
3
Total
700
Other attempts to persuade him while he is in the area of the caves will simply fail. If taken away from the caves he will be much more cooperative, offering information on successful bluff, diplomacy, or intimidate checks.
The floor of this cavern is difficult terrain. It is a large natural cave. There is a big rock hiding an entrance to the goblin caves in the back. Perception DC to spot the opening is 16, but it requires a DC 24 strength check to move the rock.
The PC's can learn about the location of the hobgoblins, the orcs, the kobolds, the bugbears and the gnolls from the goblins. No goblin will voluntarily enter the domain of the hobgoblins or the orcs. The goblins are not aware of the
There is a large fire burning in the middle of the room for warmth and light. The area is brightly lit. The ogres will attempt to bullrush opponents into the fire if possible.
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Bree and Lork live here happily. They are not involved in any of the cave politics, and t ake pay from the goblins from time to time. If the PC's approach peacefully, the ogres will not attack right away (they have plenty of food for now). The ogres only speak giant (but t hey don't read). They can be convinced to act as mercenaries (by either Drell or Chant Havelove). They can be convinced to live at the keep, but Drell will only accept if the party succeeds at a skill challenge. If posted at the keep they will be outfitted as fighters and trained.
Convince Gripclaw to Leave Level 5 Skill Challenge XP 700 You negotiate with the ogres and with the officials at Drell’s Keep to hire the ogres to guard the keep. Complexity: 2 (6 successes before 3 failures) Primary Skills Diplomacy – to convince either party that there can be peace between them. Bluff – any plausible lie. Secondary Skills Intimidate – frighten the ogres into believing the army is coming to fight them. (only useable on the ogres). Victory: The ogres accept the terms and agree to move to the keep. Defeat: Either party refuses (last party spoken to). The ogres are hostile and will attack immediately. Skills: Diplomacy DC 15, Bluff DC 15, Intimidate DC 19
If for whatever reason one of the ogres is killed and the other survives he or she will go off into the wilderness looking for his or her mate. He or she will find and join the r aiders if they are still alive. Otherwise he or she will return in three or four days. If Chant gets a chance to recruit them they will join the raiders. The ogres cannot be convinced to simply pack up and move without a place to go. If offered no alternative they will fight to t he death.
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Cave F: Hobgoblins
The initial entrance to this cave has been swept clean, except for some obvious blood stains on the ground. A stout iron-reinforced door is here at the back of the cavern it is DC 20 to break through the door. Over the door is a sign in goblin and common "Come in for dinner!" The handwriting is very poor, and it appears to be written in blood.
Terrain: Movement here is normal. The floors and walls have been worked and are kept clean and neat. Squares with furniture in them should be considered difficult.
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Lighting:
Area 23: Common room. Name 8 Hobgoblin Grunts (g) Monster Manual 1 Hobgoblin Commander (c) Monster Manual 1 Hobgoblin Archer (a) Monster Manual encounter Level
Bright light at night time. Dim light during the day. The hobgoblins have lanterns spaced evenly to keep all areas lit. They shutter the lanterns during the day when they sleep. The hobgoblins have claimed this series of caverns as their own. They have enslaved the goblins, and view the kobolds and bugbears as nothing more than servants. In their opinion they already own all of Areas A, D, F and H. They are aware of the cultists in area K and the gnolls in area J, but are ignoring them for the moment in hopes of conquering the orcs first. If the PC's attempt to negotiate with the hobgoblins, they must treat the hobgoblin king as they would any noble. Derisive remarks or hints that they are not civilized or are less than human will be met with immediate and harsh violence.
Level Type 3 Minion
XP 304
5
Soldier
200
3
Artillery
150
2
Total
654
This is where off duty hobgoblins rest. There are females here and young (represented by the hobgoblin grunts) who will take up arms in defense of the king.
Area 24: Torture Chamber, Storage, Playroom Name 2 Hobgoblin Torturers (t) New Monster 1 Hobgoblin Commander (w) Monster Manual encounter Level
A couple of notes on playing the caverns. The hobgoblin quarters are cramped and crowded with furniture. Everything is in neat and precise order as a good military installation should be, but the caverns restrict movement. The PC's should take this into consideration in their tactics. The hobgoblins are used to these quarters and will certainly us it to their advantage.
Level 3
Type Brute
XP 300
5
Soldier
200
1
Total
500
The hobgoblins here attack on site if they haven't already been alerted. There are five cells here, five of which hold prisoners, and one which is crammed full of food storage.
The PC's should expect a long, drawn-out slugfest here as the hobgoblins all fight to the death, attempting to amass as many of them together as possible and surround and cut down the PC's if possible.
Cell 1: Flid Havrang a member of the lost patrol. Use the statistics for a human guard given in the monster manual. He will scavenge weapons and armor from dead hobgoblins. He will stay with the party until they return to Drell's Keep.
If the PC's take the time to figure out if Drell can do any mining here they will not find any area that are good prospects.
Cell 2: An Orc. He is very thin from starvation and more than half crazy. If released he will immediately scavenge weapons and begin hunting hobgoblins. He only speaks giant, but will respond only to offers of food, drink, or killing hobgoblins. When he fights he will
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mutilate any hobgoblin corpses he finds, often cutting off ears or tongues as souvenirs.
Area 25: Common Room Area 25 is not included on the map. In the original it was another common room ide ntical to area 23.
Cell 3: Deliria, a young woman. She was brought here originally by Chant Havelove, a nd joined the cult of Cyric. She uses the statistics for Nadara on Page 67.
Area 26: Guard room. Name 3 Hobgoblin Soldiers (s) Monster Manual 2 Hobgoblin Archers (a) Monster Manual 1 Hobgoblin Commander (c) Monster Manual encounter Level
Since her capture by the hobgoblins and their horrible treatment of her, she has decided that she does not wish to remain in the wild lands, and she will kill Chant Havelove if it is the last thing she does. If asked how she arrived here, she will explain that she is an adventurer and that her two companions were killed.
If somebody's insight beats her bluff, then she can be confronted. She will not betray the location of the cult or her involvement, but she will admit that she was brought to the area by Chant Havelove. If further pressed she will explain that Chant betrayed and lied to her and that she wants him dead. This could be confusing to the players because she will most likely come off as very deceptive and evil whereas hopefully Chant will not be quite as evil.
e 3
Type Soldier
XP 450
3
Artillery
300
5
Soldier
200
5
Total
950
The guards will challenge the PC's and threaten them. If the PC's choose to negotiate they will offer to accompany them before the king. The PC's will be taken to area 25 and asked to wait. A messenger will go and get the king. The party will be asked to wait in the center of the room while the hobgoblins will surround them. If the PC's do not negotiate or show signs of weakness or aggression the guards will attack. The first time one of them is bloodied, one of them will attempt to get away and alert the others.
Cell 4: Bliss Hardblood a woman-at-arms and companion of Flid and the lost patrol (use the statistics for a human guard given in the monster manual). She will likewise help out the party until they can get back to the keep. Bliss is looking for adventure and will ask the party if she can join up with them.
Area 27: Armory Name 3 Hobgoblin Soldiers (s) Monster Manual encounter Level
Cell 5: An insane gnoll. He speaks broken common, and complains constantly about the snow. The gnolls finally kicked him out a few weeks ago and the hobgoblins captured him. He is pretty much oblivious to what goes on and will simply go looking for food and a bed i f freed. He is unable to give clear answers to any questions, but can indicate that his brothers are nearby.
Level 3 1
Type Soldier
XP 450
Total
450
Anyone entering this area without authorization will be attacked immediately. The racks hold 2 suits of chainmail, 5 longswords, 3 small shields, 3 longbows as well as arrows, spare parts for repairs, tools for sharpening, as well as a stock of oil.
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Area 28: Storage Name 1 Hobgoblin Soldier (s) Monster Manual 1 Hobgoblin Commander (w) Monster Manual 3 Hobgoblin Soldiers (s) Monster Manual encounter Level
Level 3
Type Soldier
If he PC's manage to get here without alerting them they will attack.
XP 150
5
Soldier
200
3
Soldier
450
3
Total
800
If the PC's attempt to negotiate with the king, the hobgoblins will not agree to leave the caverns, but will rather suggest that Drell "return to the slums of Cormyr and build his huts in safety." The hobgoblin king will agree to hire the PC's to exterminate the orcs, agreeing to pay the sum of 100 gp. However he will double cross the PC's after they have completed the task and attempt to take them prisoner or kill them.
This is a store room. The guards attack all unauthorized visitors.
Area 29: Guard Room Name 3 Hobgoblin Soldiers (s) Monster Manual 2 Hobgoblin Archers (a) Monster Manual encounter Level
Level 3
Type Soldier
XP 450
3
Artillery
300
3
Total
If asked about prisoners he will admit that he has three human prisoners from Drell's keep. He will demand a ransom of 200gp for each prisoner. The party should realize that only 2 members of the patrol are unaccounted for, but they may still be unsure. If they offer to go and get the ransom he will request that they leave one member behind. A successful diplomacy or bluff check will convince the king that it is an unnecessary precaution. If the party returns with the money, he will simply take the money and then try to kill or capture them.
750
Another guard room, see area 26.
Area 30: King's chambers. Name 1 Hobgoblin Hand of Bane (h) Monster Manual 1 Hobgoblin Warcaster (w) Monster Manual 1 Hobgoblin Commander (c) Monster Manual 2 Hobgoblin Grunts (g) Monster Manual encounter Level
Level 8
Type Elite Soldier
XP 700
3
Controller
150
5
Soldier
Area 31: Guard room Name 3 Hobgoblin Soldiers (s) Monster Manual 2 Hobgoblin Archers (a) Monster Manual encounter Level
200
3
Minion
72
5
Total
850
Level 3
Type Soldier
XP 450
3
Artillery
300
3
Total
750
Another Guard Room, see area 26.
42
Cave G: Shunned Cavern.
This is a very dark cavern. It smells musty, even near the entrance. A DC 19 perception will reveal the sound of dripping water.
The characters will immediately be attacked when they enter this cavern, and very likely the combat will spread quickly to involve the jellies and the owlbear due to the range of the jellies’ blindsight and the owlbear’s perception. 43
Lighting: Darkness (I'm giving the owlbear darkvision rather than low-light vision)
Area 33: Underground pool.
The sounds of dripping water grow louder here. In this cavern small rivulets of water drip into a large pool of water. Something catches your light at the far end of the pool.
Terrain:
Difficult. This is un-worked cavern floor. Area 32: Waste pit.
Name 3 Stirges (s) Monster Manual 1 Deathjump Spider (d) Monster Manual encounter Level
Level 1
Type Lurker
XP 300
4
Skirmisher
175
1
Total
475
The light at the far end of the pool is a patch of fungus that glows under ultraviolet radiation (like light). When the characters move within the tremorsense range of the ochre jellies they will move to attack. It is very likely that they will trigger a jelly’s tremorsense while they are fighting the stirges and spider.
Area 34: Owlbear. Name Owlbear (o) Monster Manual encounter Level
This is where the owlbear dumps all her trash. There are scattered bones, bits of tattered clothes and armor and rusted weapons. There are also 2d4 copper, 1d6 silver, and 1d4 gold scattered amongst the refuse.
The sounds of fighting may attract t he owlbear. If it beats a DC 22 it will come to investigate.
Level 3 4
Type Elite Brute Total
3
Type Elite Brute Total
XP 700 700
This is where the owlbear lives. She goes out to hunt when she's hungry, but a surprising amount of creatures come here for the water. She is hungry and will attack unless given food right away.
The stirges and spider are here scavenging off the refuse. They will attack the party quickly.
Name 3 Ochre Jelly (j) Monster Manual encounter Level
Level 8
XP 900 900
44
Cave H: The bugbears.
There are a hodgepodge of signs adorning this entrance in common, goblin, draconic, and giant. All are very large with very large, neat lettering. All of them say "Top wages! Food and money! Report to the first guard on the left!"
The sign on the front door s hould indicate that these creatures would rather make money than fight. The bugbears will make no hostile m oves, but will rather say "put that away before somebody gets hurt. I never met a face I couldn't share a drink with."
The bugbears can be extremely difficult opponents if brought into combat while the party is still low level. If this happens the bugbears will attempt to capture them and then ransom them. They will demand 50gp each, which Drell will pay, but he will then ask that they repay the amount. If they don't have the cash they can either complete their task for free or else "volunteer" for his army for 2 years.
Lighting: All areas have bright light. Terrain: Terrain is normal, except where there is furniture.
45
equipment as well as simple weapons. In addition, if the PC's need a place to sleep, she will allow them to sleep in area 38 for 5 cp per night per person, meals are complimentary.
Area 35 Guard Room
Name 2 Bugbear Warrior (w) Monster Manual 1 Bugbear Strangler (s) Monster Manual encounter Level
Level 5
Type Brute
XP 400
6
Lurker
250
2
Total
650
If the PC's ask about work, she will suggest that the hobgoblins are hiring to raid the orcs and the orcs are hiring to raid the hobgoblins, but will also suggest that the hobgoblins can't be trusted.
The guards here are drinking and gambling. Despite the party, they are alert for visitors, and will hear anyone approaching who does not pass a DC 19 stealth check. They will offer the PC's a drink and then ask their business in the caves. If the PC's want to talk to the person in charge the bugbear strangler will take them to see "the boss" in area 36. If attacked the strangler will go and get the boss and then run and get the guards in areas 38 and 39.
Freya will tell about the "black and red robes" in area K. She doesn't know what they are up to, but they have been trading with her and they always pay in coin. She has only dealt with 3 of them, and doesn't know how many there are. Freya knows about the raiders that camp near the keep. She has dealt with them in the past, but isn't sure how many there are. She will freely admit that she would go to work with them if they offered enough money.
Area 36: The boss
Name 1 Oni Night Haunter (o) Monster Manual 2 Bugbear Strangler(s) Monster Manual encounter Level
Level 8
XP 700
6
Type Elite Controller Lurker
6
Total
1200
500
The PC's can hire Freya's gang for the price of 10gp per day per person, though she will not go herself. The cash needs to be paid in advance so the party will need to come up with the 10 gold first and then the bugbear will work for the next 24 hours. If the PC's ask to look around for areas to mine, Freya will agree for 5 gp. They will find that areas 40 and 41 are actually old mining starts and probably useful to lord Drell.
The boss, refers to herself as "Freya the Free Fighter" and will address herself using her name rather than saying I or me, i.e. "Freya thinks that is a bad move." She has a gangster mentality and should talk more or less like a mobster. She is actually part demon and part goblinoid, but is not particularly evil or malicious. I've use the stats of a n Oni Night Haunter to represent her, but suggest changing the alignment to unaligned. The bugbear stranglers she keeps around as consorts. She is hoping to raise her "family" and make t hem wealthy.
If the PC's explain that Drell wants to mine in the caves, Freya will want to stay put, but will agree to move for 200gp. If the hobgoblins are dead she will agree to move there for only 50gp. When the PC's mention Drell, she will want to speak with him in person and will ask them to take her there so that she can negotiate with him face to face. Drell will agree to see her. The PC's will not be part of the negotiation process after that. Freya will convince Drell to
If the PC's talk with Freya, she will offer them goods and services. She runs a small store out of room 37, and offers all basic adventuring 46
hire her gang as guards while his men start to build a little town near the river and to start construction on a ferry and a lumber mill. Drell is perfectly willing to risk the bugbears' lives out in the open.
The drink is fermented beet whiskey. It is very strong and tastes horrible. A character will become drunk very quickly drinking this stuff. There is also water to drink. The food is a mixture of vegetables (mostly potatoes and cabbage) and bits of unidentified meat.
If the PC's ask about magic items or the like she will suggest that they explore the abbey across the river. It is a place of powerful magic. She will also suggest they find the gnolls and talk to them. They run a competing trading post and may have what they need.
Area 39 Dirk's Gambling Joint
Name 2 Bugbear Warrior (w) Monster Manual 1 Bugbear Strangler (s) Monster Manual encounter Level
Area 37: Store room
Here Freya keeps the goods for her store. The door is locked and she has the key. See area 36 for what she has for sale.
Level 5
Type Brute
Type Brute
XP 400
6
Lurker
250
1
Total
650
This is ostentatiously a guard room to look out for the pens in area 40 and 41, but has recently been converted into a casino of types. Dirk, the bugbear strangler is dealing blackjack for the two bugbear warriors. They will suggest to the PC's that there isn't much to see here.
Area 38 Bert's Tavern.
Name 1 Bugbear Warrior (w) Monster Manual 3 Guard Drake (d) Monster Manual encounter Level
Level 5
XP 200
Area 40: Holding Cell
2 1
Brute Total
375 If there are prisoners they are kept here. At the moment they don't have any.
575
Area 41 - Bree's Place
There are signs over the entrance to this area labeled "Bert's Tavern" in a variety of languages. Bert, the bugbear warrior outlined below keeps his pets here. He charges 5cp to stay the night and sells drinks and food. Food is free with a night's stay.
A big sign says Bree's Place. It is vacant. If asked, the bugbears will explain that Bree used to live and worked there, but since she found her one true love a week or so ago she moved out and is staying with him. They are looking for someone to start the business again if any of the PC's are interested.
Meal 1 cp Drink 2 cp
Bree is the ogress in cave E.
47
Cave I: Minotaur cave.
The garden in front of this cave is neatly tended and organized. Rows of potatoes, turnips, beets, cabbages, carrots, and chard are visible. The pepper plants appear to have succumbed in the last frost. Small footprints are visible, and it is clear that whoever works this garden is of small size wearing poorly made shoes (Nature or Perception DC 17). A DC 18 nature check will reveal that bits of dung in the garden belong to various different creatures including orcs, goblins, and kobolds. The cave itself has nothing of note about it. It appears to be a completely natural cavern. There are no footprints in the un-worked stone floor (though
a DC 30 perception will reveal movements of a large hoofed creature). There are no small footprints leading into the cave. A DC 20 perception check will note 1 large hoof print near the cave entrance that is mostly obscured by the other small footprints. When he needs food the Minotaur comes out to hunt at night. Usually he quickly scours around for any stray or careless humanoids and then heads into the hills looking for big game. He took down a large elk not too long ago, however, and hasn't needed to leave the valley. He still likes to come out at night to 48
keep abreast of any changes in the immediate area. If the PC's come to the area at night there is a 50% chance that he will not be home and they will encounter him out of doors. If the minotaur is not in the caves the Minotaur Dizziness effect of his cavern is not in place.
new location) otherwise secretly keep track of where they are. Area 42: Stirge Cavern.
Name 13 Stirges (s) Monster Manual encounter Level
Terrain: The floors of this cavern are difficult terrain. It is un-worked, natural cavern flooring.
Level 1
Type Lurker
XP 1300
6
Total
1300
The stirges are starving and will attack anything with blood in it. This encounter can be made easier by simply removing some of t he stirges. Alternatively you could have the stirge s be affected by the Minotaur Dizziness, making them easier prey for the party.
Lighting: Bright Light from lanterns. (Minotaurs in this edition don't have darkvision (or infravision)) Minotaur Dizziness (zone, arcane, illusion):
Your head swims. The walls of this place seem to waver just a bit. After a moment you feel better, but a faint buzz persists. You can't seem to locate the source.
Area 43: Fire Beetles
Name 5 Fire Beetles (b) Monster Manual encounter Level
All (non-minotaur) intelligent creatures that enter the cavern are susceptible to the minotaur dizziness effect. It is a zone that covers all squares of the minotaur cavern. A creature that starts its turn in the cavern must make a saving throw. If it fails each step it moves that round will be in a random direction rather than its intended direction.
Level 1
Type Brute
XP 500
1
Total
500
There are 5 fire beetles scavenging here. They will not attack unless a character gets within 4 squares of it. Once provoked, they will fight until reduced to 25% of their HP. Area 44: Spiders
DC 18 arcana check will reveal the presence of the zone. DC 22 will reveal that it is not native to the area, i.e. that it is caused by a present living force such as a creature rather than being a persistent magical anomaly. A character can remember a legend about a minotaur that caused people to become lost forever with a DC 20 history check. After a character has seen the minotaur, a DC 16 arcana check will reveal that the zone is caused subconsciously by the minotaur and that it is not affected by it.
Name 1 Ettercap Webspinner (w) Monster Manual 2 Ettercap Fanguard (f) Monster Manual 2 Deathjump Spider (d) Monster Manual encounter Level
Suggested implementation: Make the saving throw secretly for each character each round. If they fail, wait for them to declare their move and then randomly decide which direction they move. If you are using minis, then tell them their new location (or place t heir mini in the
Level 5
Type Controller
XP 200
4
Skirmisher
350
4
Skirmisher
350
4
Total
900
Silken sticky strands cover the floors, walls and ceilings of this area of the caverns. The cavern floors are already difficult terrain, but if they weren't they would be now. If it comes to matter, the walls and ceilings are also difficult
49
terrain here. The spiders will only attack creatures that touch their webs.
himself a large throne made from the bones of his victims. It is held together quite sturdily by sinews taken from his victims.
Area 45: Minotaur Den
Name 1 Minotaur Warrior (M) Monster Manual Encounter Level
Level 10
Type Soldier
XP 500
1
Total
500
The throne weighs 200 pounds and is worth 350 gp if the PC's can find a buyer. The throne would only sell to someone with an evil bent or an obsession with death. There is no-one in the keep who will buy the throne, but Jothran Yolandus, Marlin Drouhust, or the Mason's Guild can all help them find a buyer. They will all charge 25 gp for their services (payable up front) and the transaction will take 3 weeks. There is a 10% chance that the throne will be lost or stolen. Jothran will re-imburse 200 gp, Marlin will re-imburse nothing, and the Mason's Guild will pay full value if this unhappy even happens.
Here he lives, the big baddy himself. Make perception checks for the minotaur as soon as the characters enter the caves. As soon as he hears them he will begin to hunt them, preferably sneaking up and taking them from behind. If he encounters the players in the wild he will try to use the same tactics. If you wish to make the encounter more difficult, then have him use hit and run tactics as he moves throughout the caverns. With the dizziness in effect he should be able to separate out the party and pick them off. If this will be too difficult for your players, then have him rush i n slashing and goring.
He keeps a horde of captured items behind a big rock in the back of his cave. It isn't really a secret door (DC 12 perception to find) so much as a big rock. It takes a DC 26 strength check to move to rock enough for a small creature to get through. Another DC 26 strength check will allow a medium creature to move through.
His home cave is decorated with patterns of bones and skulls. He has patiently crafted for
50
Cavern J: Gnolls
The immediate entrance to this cave is a natural, un-worked cave that has nothing of note about it. DC 19 perception will reveal the presence of footprints that have been
concealed. The guards are actively listening, however, and if the characters make much noise the guards will come to investigate. When they see that there are intelligent 51
creatures they will put away their weapons and offer to talk.
caves, choosing to slaughter the little goblin tribe that lived here before them. The keep was just beginning to become active again at that time and they didn't like their chances against the soldiers. Since coming here the gnolls have discovered that they do not like the politics of the situation. They cannot afford to lose any of their number and will not risk open c onflict if they don't have to.
Lighting:
The entrance cave is always dark. Other areas of the cave are dark during the day except for fires to keep the creatures warm. These fires give off dim light. At night the caves have bright light.
Area 46: Guard Room Terrain:
Name 2 Gnoll Marauder (m) Monster Manual 1 Gnoll Huntmaster (h) Monster Manual 2 Hyena (y) Monster Manual encounter Level
The entrance cave is difficult terrain. Other areas of this complex are normal terrain except where there is furniture. Furniture is difficult terrain. The gnolls are much more powerful than a low level party can easily handle. They are not immediately aggressive and will in-fact be friendly and approachable. All of the gnolls speak common fluently. If the PC's start aggressive actions it would be wise to warn them that this does not look like a fight they can win. Allowing a wisdom check DC 10 should allow them to feel that these are dangerous adversaries.
Level 6
Type Brute
XP 500
5
Artillery
200
2
Skirmisher
250
5
Total
950
The gnolls are alert and actively guarding. They will approach intelligent creatures peacefully, and invite them to talk rather than to fight. They will invite the PC's to t alk come in and talk with their leader, but will agree to send a messenger and have him brought to the entrance chamber as well.
If provoked, the gnolls will fight. They will fight to the death, however they will capture the PC's if possible. If they do capture the PC's they will strip them naked and march them to the gates of the keep in broad daylight. They will demand to speak with Lord Drell. Drell will parley with them from the battlements. The gnoll chief will demand to know the purpose of t he intrusion on his home. Drell will suggest that they speak together more comfortably. Drell will hire the gnolls as guards to help build a town, lumber mill, and ferry near the river. The PC's should receive no XP for getting captured in this manner.
Area 47: Lounge
Name 2 Gnoll Huntmaster (h) Monster Manual 4 Hyena (y) Monster Manual 1 Gnoll Claw Fighter (c) Monster Manual encounter Level
The gnolls only recently came to the caves after facing blizzard conditions and starvation. They came begging for food and were turned down by everyone. Eventually they moved into these
Level 5
Type Artillery
XP 400
2
Skirmisher
500
6
Skirmisher
250
5
Total
115 0
The gnolls here are the backups for the guards in area 46. If a fight breaks out they will
52
Name Level Type XP 1 Gnoll 8 Brute 350 Demonic Scourge 2 Gnoll Claw 6 Skirmisher 500 Fighters 1 Gnoll Hunt 5 Artillery 200 Master 2 Cacklefiend 7 Brute 600 Hyenas encounter 9 Total 1650 Level immediately run to help. Otherwise they pass the time here drinking and talking.
Area 49: Sleeping Chamber
The gnolls gather here when off duty or during times of council. If the PC's parley with the chief it will happen here. If the PC's somehow to get here without alerting everyone, there will be only one gnoll here tending to a pack of hyenas. Area 50: Chief's Chamber
The gnoll chief takes council here with his advisors. He is an old, battle-scarred creature that is worried about the continued survival of his tribe. Before the winter blizzards his folk numbered nearly a hundred, but the y have come south from the drought and unkind lands of Netheril. At first they sought refuge at the abbey, but were immediately attacked by undead and withdrew.
Area 48: Store
The gnolls keep a store here where they sell common items. The store is locked during the Name Level Type XP 6 Hyena (y) 2 Skirmisher 750 Monster Manual 1 Gnoll 5 Artillery 200 Huntmaster (h) Monster Manual encounter Level 5 Total 950 day but open at night when the gnolls are active. The chief has the key. Items for sale include basic adventuring equipment, 2 suits of medium sized chainmail, and 3 longswords.
The gnolls can be convinced to speak with Lord Drell rather easily, however they will request to do so in person and at the keep. If the PC's ask to look around for mining possibilities, the gnolls will agree for 10gp. There are no immediate indications that there is good ore on this side of the valley. If the gnolls parley with Drell, he will hire them as described in the introduction. The gnolls can only be hired as mercenaries if they are guaranteed a permanent residence as a reward. The PC's don't really have this to offer.
If the PC's ask about food or lodging they will be directed to the bugbears. If the bugbears are no longer available then they will allow them to sleep in the entrance area for 1sp each per night.
If by some chance Chant Havelove or Simiobolt Hold gets a chance to negotiate with the gnolls they will agree to join the raiders because Chant will promise them the keep as a reward.
53
Area K: The Cult of Cyric
54
To quote original text "Red strata intertwines with bulging black veins running through the hewn rock walls beyond the entrance. The wide corridors and chambers are deathly still. A faint groaning sound, and a shrill piping may be occasionally heard, barely perceptible even if the party is absolutely silent and listening." This cave has clearly been worked, even to the casual observer. In addition there is a faint smell of decay on the air, though it is by no means overpowering, and after a few moments inside the characters will get used to it.
Lighting:
All passages have bright light. All rooms have bright light unless otherwise noted. Terrain:
The terrain is normal except where there is furniture. There is no risk of fire like other areas of the caves because the humans are smart enough to keep their fires in fireplaces or stoves.
The cult is here to regroup and then further its own plans. At the moment their primary objective is to figure out what to do about the keep.
Area 51: Boulder Filled Passage
This passage suffered a cave in. It leads to the Caves of the Unknown, which is to say it leads to an adventure you will have to make yourself. It will take a good team a month to dig it out.
If the PC's attempt to negotiate, Simiobolt Hold will attempt to get them to join his side and lead the raiders against the keep. As a reward they will be given control over the keep (the PC's will have to work out their own deal with the gnolls if they also join). He will also pay the PC's up to 50 gold to spy for him at the keep, though he will not reveal Chant's identity until he fully trusts the PC's. He will offer a reward of 100 gp for rescuing Deliria from the hobgoblins. He will pay them to assassinate Drell's officers and advisors for 50gp x the target's level. After the first assassination he will trust the PC's fully and will reveal Chant's identity and ask the P C's for advice on how to proceed.
Area 52: Hall of Skeletons
Name 2 Blazing Skeletons (b) Monster Manual 2 Skeletons (s) Monster Manual 8 Decrepit Skeletons (d) Monster Manual encounter Level
Level 5
Type Artillery
XP 400
3
Soldier
300
1
Minion
200
5
Total
900
Evil energy fills this hall. The power of undeath is almost tangible here. The altar at the far end of the hall glows with a very, very faint purple light (dim light on the altar squares and for 1 square away from it). Otherwise this room is completely dark.
If the party is playing evil characters, and they are doing so from the start the GM may want to consider having Chant approach them openly and invite them to meet with Simiobolt early on. If any of them have prior connections with the cult of Cyric (or if they would like to) they could come to the keep on false pretenses of helping Drell, but really be looking for Simiobolt. Conquering the keep could be a fun adventure all its own.
A DC 18 religion or arcana check will tell the characters that the skeletons in this room draw their power from the altar. Any undead within 10 squares of the altar receives resist 10 to radiant damage. The altar can be disabled by a skill challenge DC 18 with 3 successful religion or arcana checks before 6 failures.
For most games, however, the PC's will see the undead guards and just start killing everything, which works just fine. 55
The undead will attack the PC's unless they are accompanied by a member of the Cult (including Deliria).
leave out the jewels and make the room essentially empty except for the altar. From the original text: "This place is of red stone, the floor being a mosaic checkerboard of black and red. The south wall is covered by a huge tapestry which depicts a black landscape, barren trees, and unidentifiable but horrible black shapes in silhouette - possibly demons of some sort - holding aloft a struggling human. A gray sky is torn by wisps of purple clouds, and a bloody moon with a skull-like face on it lee rs down upon the scene. Four black pillars support the domed ceiling some 25’ overhead. Between these columns, just in front of the tapestry, is a stone altar of red veined black rock, roughhewn and stained brown with dried blood. Upon it are 4 ancient bronze vessels - a shallow bowl, a pair of goblets, and a ewer, a vaseshaped pitcher. They are also bloodstained but obviously worth a great deal of m oney. (The value is 1,000 gp for each cup, and 2,000 gp for each of the other items, but these are relics of evil, and any character possessing them will not part with them or sell them nor allow others to handle them.)
Area 53: Guard Room
Name 2 Corruption Corpse (c) Monster Manual 2 Zombie (z) Monster Manual 4 Zombie Rotter (r) Monster Manual encounter Level
Level 4
Type Artillery
XP 350
2
Brute
250
3
Minion
152
3
Total
752
This room is always dark. The undead will attack the PC's unless they are accompanied by a member of the Cult (including Deliria). Area 54: Acolyte's Chamber
Name 2 Evil Acolyte (a)(use stats for Nadara p. 67) 2 Ghoul (g) Monster Manual encounter Level
Level 4
Type Artillery
XP 350
5
Soldier
400
3
Total
750 If a character picks up a relic, the relic makes an attack +14 vs. Will. If it misses the character gets an immediate feeling of utter evil and can be allowed to put down the relic. On a hit the character is immediately overcome with an obsession about the object. Within 6 days the character will become a servant of chaos and will return and replace the relic and then stay to guard the altar forever. If someone attempts to destroy the altar or the relics the bell in room 58 will sound. All of the cult members and their guards will immediately come to this area to investigate.
There are 2 Acolytes here. They use the statistics for human mages, but they are wearing holy symbols and their powers are radiant rather than arcane. They will act surprised and ask the PC's what they are doing. If they wish to negotiate, they will bring them to the guest room and ask them to wait. Simiobolt will meet them there with his personal undead attendants as well as the acolytes and their guards. If the PC's can offer no reasonable explanation the acolytes will attack. One of them will run to alert Simiobolt.
Area 56: Adept's chambers
Name 2 Underpriest (u) New Monster 2 Wight (w) Monster Manual encounter Level
Area 55: Chapel of Evil Chaos
Okay this is a throwback to the original module and is pretty out of place in 4th edition. If you want to play it nice and keep it 4th edition, just 56
Level 5
Type Controller
XP 400
5
Skirmisher
400
3
Total
800
are of pure chaos and evil. The other walls are covered by draperies of deep purple with embroidered symbols and evil sayings, done in scarlet and gold and black thread. As soon as the party enters the place, black candles in eight great candelabras on either side of the place will come alight magically, shooting forth a disgusting red radiance. Shapeless forms of purple, yellow and green will dance and sway on the western wall."
The adepts will behave the same as the acolytes in room 54.
Area 57: Hall of Undead Warriors
Name 20 Decrepit Skeletons (s) Monster Manual 20 Zombie Rotters (z) Monster Manual encounter Level
Level 1
Type Minion
XP 500
3
Minion
760
6
Total
1260
If anyone looks at the shapes on the wall for more than a moment they will suffer an attack +12 vs. will. On a hit they will "be mesmerized into chanting a hymn to chaotic evil." While chanting the character is able to perform other actions, but will not be able to l eave the temple. In addition they take a -4 penalty to insight and perception checks while the curse lasts. The curse can be broken by Simiobolt. It will also automatically be broken if the character is attacked by any of the residents of the temple. An unaffected character may make3 successful DC 22 religion or arcana checks to disable the wall. The relics in this area are not cursed, but anyone attempting to sell these items in civilized lands will have to explain their association with the cult of Cyric. Lord Drell will demand that the characters destroy the items immediately or try them as cultists. The characters will meet a similar fate in all good lands.
From the original: "There are four files of the undead here, two of 10 skeletons each, two of 10 zombies each. The former face south, the latter north." If the bell in room 58 is struck they will issue through the doors and attack anyone in the temple who is not a member of the cult. Area 58: Temple of Evil Chaos
From the original: "This huge area has an arched ceiling some 30’ or more in height. The floor is of polished black stone which has swirling patterns of red veins through it. The walls behind the draperies, and the ceiling as well, are of dull black rock, while the west wall is of translucent red stone which is seemingly one piece, polished to mirror-like sm oothness. A great bell of black iron stands near the entrance point, with a pair of mallets beside its supports. To the south are several long benches or pews. There are three stone altars to the west, the northernmost of pure black, the middle one of streaked red and black, the last of red with black flecks. At the western end of the temple area is a dais of black stone, with four lesser chairs on its lower tier and a great throne above. The chairs are of bone; the ivory throne is set with gold and adorned with gems of red and black (10 black stones each worth 100 gold pieces, 10 red stones each worth 500 gold pieces, and one large red stone worth 1,000 gp). The signs and sigils upon these seat s
"Should three or more voices be so raised, the iron bell will sound automatically by magic, but even one such chant will alert the guards (in area 59)." Even if the characters are quiet and avoid the trap, the guards from area 59 will arrive in 3 rounds. Area 59: Chambers of the Evil Priest.
Name 1 Simiobolt Hold New Monster 2 Wraith Monster Manual encounter Level 57
Level 8
XP 700
5
Type Elite Controller Lurker
5
Total
1100
400
force open its own sarcophagus the following round. Both will attack any intruders, including cult members.
Simiobolt Hold is here. He is more than just half mad. He has fully and voluntarily given himself over to the powers of evil chaos. He will rant, rave, and generally behave like a crazed homicidal maniac. If his guards are summoned to the chapel he will follow 10 squares behind them. If the PC's arrive here somehow without an invitation he will kill them without mercy.
Area 63: Storage Chamber
Name 2 Gelatinous Cube (g) Monster Manual encounter Level
Area 60: Guest Chamber
This is Chant Havelove's room when he visits the temple. It is plainly furnished and currently dark and empty.
XP 800 800
Level 4
Type Brute
XP 175
7
Minion
300
Area 64: Cell
1
Total
475
Name 1 Medusa Archer (m) Monster Manual encounter Level
There is a rack and various items used for torturing people here. The torturer is a rather unstable individual who will invite the players to voluntarily participate. Failing that he and his assistants will attempt to coerce them, shouting "come play with me, we'll have fun!" while he attacks.
Level 9 4
Type Soldier Total
Level 10
Type Elite Controller
XP 1000
5
Total
1000
As the PC's approach this area they will hear moans and angry hisses. If the PC's listen (perception DC 16) they will hear "die Simiobolt" and "release me" in very slurred, snakelike common. The medusa was tricked and trapped here by Simiobolt. He is simply waiting for her to starve to death.
Area 62: The Crypt
Name 2 Battle Wight (w) Monster Manual encounter Level
4
Type Elite Brute Total
This is a place where the cultists have recently started storing stuff. They probably won't be using it for long because a pair of gelatinous cubes have taken up residence here. The cubes will attack and eat anything they can get their hands on.
Area 61: Torture Chamber
Name 1 Human Berserker (b) Monster Manual 4 Human Lackey (l) Monster Manual encounter Level
Level 5
XP 800
The PC's can negotiate with her through the door if they choose. She will agree to help them kill Simiobolt. A successful insight check, however, will reveal that she is lying - at least partially. If the PC's open the door, she will take them to the temple and will fight Simiobolt with them. Afterwards, however, she will turn and attempt to kill the PC's as well.
1600
This is an ancient burial site. The cultists do not come here. It is always kept pitch black here. There are 3 sarcophagi here, each requiring a DC 18 strength check to open. 1 of them is empty (optionally place a treasure in it). The other two each contain a battle wight. If one of the sarcophagi containing a wight is opened, the other wight will automatically awake and 58
If the PC's just release her and don't go with her to fight Simiobolt, she has a 50% chance of winning that fight. If the PC's come back and she was victorious, she will have t urned the
acolytes to stone and will have placed the statue of Simiobolt on one of his altars. She will attack and turn to stone anyone entering her lair.
59
Part Five: Events and Afterwards There are several events that should happen or
the party to either be out of the keep or more
could happen at various points throughout the
preferably on their side.
adventure. These can be tossed in for flavor or to move the plot along or can be left out
First the numbers. Most of the humanoids in
altogether. I leave it to you as Dungeon Master
the caves area can be hired by Simiobolt Hold
to decide what will be the most interesting to
or Chant Havelove to join the raiders. If the
your group.
players negotiate with all of the humanoids and pay them to leave, most all of them will simply
There are three primary groups that need
go off into the wilderness where they will meet
attention, Chant Havelove, The Raiders, and
up with Tandoro who will offer them food,
Lord Kavmen Drell. Simiobolt Hold is the big
money, and protection. It is pretty simple math
mean boss at the end, but he doesn’t really
for any of them to simply join up.
show up on the stage much and really is just a big club to thump the party with.
If the gnolls, bugbears or ogres have agreed to work for Lord Drell, Chant Havelove will secretly
If you are looking to hook the party with further
negotiate with them and convince each of them
events with the major players from this
separately that they would be better off having
campaign then I would suggest that Chant
the keep for themselves. All of them will agree
Havelove has all the makings of a fun bad guy.
to hire on with him and attack in conjunction
Lord Drell will be a great support to the party
with the raiders.
and the keep can work out well as a base of operations.
When the raiders have 30 members in their group (count high level mobs like the ogres and
Tandoro could easily develop into a very fun
the gnoll chieftain as 2 each) they will be ready
NPC working either for or against the players
to attack.
As always I strongly encourage you, the DM, to take the material presented in this module and
As a requirement for this attack either Chant
refine and develop it to suit your own needs.
Havelove or one of his assistants must be alive and in the keep. They will initiate the attack
The Raider Attack
signal. There are 6 men at arms who have
If the raiders have managed to collect any more
secretly agreed to Chant with the attack. They
people they will attack the keep in force.
will see that the gate is opened and let the raiders in.
Before this kind of insanity can take place, however, they will have to have several things
If the party is present then the whole attack can
in place at the same time. First they will need
be role-played out. If the party is not present,
number roughly equal to the keep. Second they
then give the raiders a 50% chance for success
will need someone inside the keep to help
(1-10 on a d20). Increase their chances by 5%
(several people actually). Finally, they will want
for each member of the gang over 30 and decrease it by 5% for every member under 30 60
(i.e. they will have 100% success if they have 40
opportunity will murder one to assume their
members and the party is not present).
identity. If she is discovered she will flee into the wilderness and join the raiders.
Lord Drell, Essentia Nells, and Freela will be taken prisoners. Everyone else will be
If Chant is able to take over the keep he will
slaughtered.
keep his bargain with whichever evil humanoids have helped and leave them the keep. He will
The raiders will lose half of their numbers. If
take his personal treasure and any treasure he
the gnoll chieftain, either of the ogres, or Freya
can secretly loot and flee with Tandoro.
the bugbear leader is with the attack (and you don’t role play it) they will survive.
He will go into Netheril and find a village or town to lay low for a while.
Any surviving kobolds or goblins will be enslaved.
If at any time it looks like he will be found out or that the plans of the cult of Cyric are going to
If more than one boss character survives (i.e.
fail he will grab what he can and get out of
both Freya and the gnoll leader) then the
town in a hurry. If he is thwarted in this
strongest will kill the weakest. You can simply
manner he will seek revenge against the PC’s,
roll a die or pick one.
plotting against them from a distance until one or the other is exterminated.
Retaking the keep and rescuing the prisoners then becomes an adventure in and of itself.
If the keep is taken and the PC’s manage to get back inside and rescue the prisoners and/or get
Chant’s Story
the keep back they will find out about Chant’s
Despite his subordinate role to Simiobolt Hold,
treachery. Once the keep is operational again
Chant Havelove is actually in a position to be
or once the PC’s reach civilization it will take
more threatening to the party and to the keep
only a few weeks for their story to reach Chant
than his master.
at which point he will become paranoid about them and try to eliminate them permanently.
Whenever the PC’s are outside of the keep Chant will attempt to subvert the keep by
Lord Drell and Continuing Adventures
seducing soldiers over to the dark side. Over
If Lord Drell survives and is rescued, he will be
time he will gain access to the keep’s supplies.
grateful to the PC’s for their work. He will offer them posts in his keep, which they may accept
Each day consider that Chant will gain one new
and simply retire.
loyal follower from the guardsmen. So after six days he will be in a position to open the gates.
They may also accept the posts and continue to adventure in the area of the keep. Lord Drell
If an opportunity presents itself, he will assign
will need someone to help oversee building a
Liza, the doppelganger acolyte to join the party.
sawmill and village. In addition (and probably
She will use her powers of disguise to learn the
more appealing to the characters) he will need
intentions of the party and if given an easy 61
someone to explore the old monastery across the river.
This adventure is continued in module “The Old Monastery” a module by Kelly D. Tolman (to be
Once a ferry (or bridge) is built, there will be
released summer of 2009).
attacks on anyone who crosses the river. These deaths will need to be explored.
62
Part Six: Treasures First a bit of explanation about how to hand
adventured and didn’t fight with any chiefs
out treasures in this module.
the first session. However to offset that they got quest rewards from Essentia Nells
There are a couple of ways to do this. First,
for getting the gnolls to hire on at the keep.
you could sort through the list and the encounters and match up treasures where
Please note that this adventure was made
you think they should be placed. Just drop
with access to Wizards of the Coast
a packet where you feel it belongs best.
Character Builder which has all of the information for all of the treasures listed.
Second, you could make all treasures
Again, because this is all copyrighted stuff I
random. Just roll a d10 when the party
can’t legally reprint it here.
beats an encounter that deserves a treasure.
Poke around the internet a bit and odds are good that you will turn up a thing or two, or
This works well with the random
just go and buy the books and/or get a copy
encounters and will add a dimension of
of the character builder for yourself.
randomness to the adventure. A reasonably good starting place to look Treasure packets could also be handed out
would be www.dndcorner.com. I can’t
as awards for accomplishing specific tasks,
guarantee you’ll find what you seek, but
like getting the orcs to agree to leave the
hey it’s a good place to start.
caves. Level 3 Treasures
At first glance this may seem like laziness on
Tapestry (250 gp)
my part, but really it is done intentionally.
130 gp
When I ran the adventure I did it by deciding on the fly what treasure was most
3 jades (100 gp each)
appropriate (and even modifying them to
40 gp
be more useful to the party). 110 gp
I tossed out random bits of silver and copper at each encounter (I literally used
Bag of Holding
poker chips to represent the coins) and Belt of fitness
then placed treasures mostly as rewards. For example the guards didn’t have
Armor of Durability +1
treasures but the kings/chiefs did. However the party was unlucky in the way they 63
Sacrificial Weapon +2
Helm of Vigilant Awareness
Level 5 Treasures
Potion of Healing (2) 125 gp
5 platinum pieces 50 gold pieces
Elixir of Accuracy Goodnight Tincture (level 6)
Scroll of Endure Elements
25 gp
2 amethyst (100 gp each) 200 gp
Level 4 Treasures Ironskin Belt (Heroic Tier)
340 gp
Mercurial Rod +2
Scroll of Blinding Bomb Blastpatch Level 4
4 small rubies (100 gp each)
Alchemists Fire (level 6)
potion of healing
25 gp
20 gp Kruthik Potion 140 gp
140 gp
90 gp
Collar of Recovery +2
2 platinum pieces
Gloves of the Bounty Hunter (her oic tier)
80 gp
Razor Bracers (Heroic Tier)
20 gp Scroll of Dark Light Scroll of Magic Circle
Orb of Mental Dominion +2
5 garnets (50 gp each)
Potion of Vigor
30 gp Tanglefoot Bag (level 7) 10 gp
Staggering Weapon +2
64
Appendix A: New Monsters and NPC’s Here I am only presenting the new monsters and NPC’s created for this module. Why? Well mostly for copyright reasons. If I use Wizards of the Coast stuff then they get all irate and that will just hurt the game. So if you don’t own a monster manual either go out and buy one or wait until your birthday. The statistics are presented as printable 3” x 5” images. The links available at www.dndcorner.com point to full character sheets in .pdf format. Those character sheets are a bit more difficult to manage at the table, but do have a lot more information. There are several discrepancies as the stats presented below are intended as monster stats only.
65
66
67
Other (More Generic) NPC’s Nadara, Deliria, and the Acolytes in area 54 all use these statistics.
68
Use these statistics for all of the corporals and sergeants, including Bjorn Farnhand.
Brian Blackforge – Or use the stats for a Dwarf Hammerer from the Monster Manual
69
New Monsters
70
71
