UNDEAD

© 1986 Mayfair Games Inc.

All Rights Reserved.

Authors: Laurel Nicholson and John Keefe Editor: Jackie H. Leeper

Cover Art: © 1986 Michael Whelan

Interior Art: Jeff Busch, Teanna Byerts, and Gerald O'Malley Maps: Jim Clouse

Special Thanks: To Jane Kobilak for her extensive research, and to Don the Grey for his unforgettable experiences in the world of undead.

and Role Aids are trademarks for roleplaying aids and adventures published by Mayfair Games Inc.

No part of this book may be reproduced in any form or by any means except for the inclusion of brief quotations in a review, without permission in writing from the publisher. Permission is granted to the purchaser oj this book to copy the maps and histories jar personal use, provided that none oj the copies are sold or traded.

All characters in this book are fictitious. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental. . Manufactured in the United States.

ISBN: 0-912771-42-9

Mayfair Games Inc. • P.O. Box 48539 • Niles, IL • 60648

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction 0 0 • 0 • 0 • 0 0 0 0 • 0 • 0 0 •• p. 4 The Brooding Dragon -

Map of Western Duur • 0 0 • 0 •• 0 • • •• p. 5 an Adventure ••••••• 0 • 0 •• 0 • 0 • 0 p. 50 The Lichlord Council •• 0 • 0 • 0 • • • •• p. 6 Verdaise Gamemaster's Map • 0 • 0 •• 0 • p. 51 New Spells •• 0 • 0 ••• 0 0 •• 0 0 0 0 0 •• p. 13 Verdaise Players' Map ••••• 0 • 0 •• 0 • p. 53 New Magic Items 0 •• 0 ••••••••••• p. 15 Entering the Land Map ••••••• 0 ••• p. 55 Ceremonies of Creation •• 0 • 0 • 0 •••• p. 19 Prison Layout Map 0 • 0 0 • 0 • • 0 • 0 ••• p. 59 New Monsters 0 • 0 0 0 • 0 0 •• 0 •••• 0 • p. 22 Circle of Stones Diagram •••••••• 0 • p. 60 The Land of Verdaise 0 •••• 0 •••• 0 • p. 31 Map of Lava Tubes. 0 •••••••••• p. 64-66 Region I Map 0 ••••••••• ,0 • 0 • 0 • p. 34 Hoodoo of Riches Map o. 0 0 • 0 • 0 • 0 • p. 68 Region II Map • 0 0 • 0 •• 0 •••• 0 • 0 0 p. 36 Closing the Trap Diagram ••••••••• p. 71 I Region III Map ••••••• 0 •• 0 • 0 •• 0 p. 40 Random Event Section •••••• 0 ••••• p. 73 Ashlaeden Map 0 • 0 •• 0 ••••••••• 0 p. 44 Special Non-Player Characters •••• 0 • 0 p. 77

IN'fRODUCT ON

I THE LANDS OF

WESTERN DUUR

The region Verdaise is located at the base of the Dvegar Mountains in Western Duur, To the far west is the enormous body of water known as the Sea of Dreams; little is known of the worlds beyond its horizon. East of Verdaise lies the hot and desolate Grimspade Desert. To the north lies the once-great kingdom of Ellundir, which encompasses the deep and mysterious Forest of Evernight and the deadly ice marshes. To the south, the Ash River empties at the center city of Roguestead, which is well known for its lawless profiteers, slave traders, and mercenaries. (See the Western Duur map on the next page.)

I~REAT CATASTROPHE

The center of the land of Woldham was carved £rom the side of the great mountain, !ronhead. The highest peak in the Dvegar Range of Western Duur, this huge, broa d rock served for generations as a home to the Elgaard Dwarves.

Deep in Ironhead's heart, destruction awaited. A huge lava dome pressed gradually upward through the mountain's center. It grew more powerful every year, expanding slowly with each millenium until one day it exploded.

And the land of Woldham ceased to exist. The first blast blew the lap off of Ironhead and covered the few remaining dwarven lands with smoking ash. The

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sides of Ironhead collapsed, reducing the mountain by 10,000 feet in less than 30 seconds. A bow I-shaped depression called a caldera was all that remained of the mountain. Streams of lava spewed across the steamy floor of the caldera while tremors split the ground with gaping fissures.

For many years there was a dreadful quiet. Then, far ofJ imo the distance, the few d warven survivors heard the beating of drums; the foul dissonance of answering horns joined the dirge.

Under a sullen violet light, hundreds of skeletal undead crawled over the caldera's rim. They advanced in countless numbers with their torn banners and their rusted helms and shields. Marching on over thousands of dwarven corpses, they claimed these blasted lands for their own.

Leading the hideous procession was their leader, the Lichlord Night.bay. His long, bony fingers held the reins of his armorstudded stallion. The cold, grey aura of death surrounded the robed, bejeweled figure. Those mortals who beheld him flung themselves to the ground in despair or fled in terror: none could withstand his gaze. The mantled figure had one normal eye, but his other eye was larger and crystalline with a pupil that pulsated.

Many dwarves who did not perish in what later became known as the Great Ca eas trophe were taken as prisoners. Chaos ruled; those who. were once brave turned fearful and begged for mercy at the skeletal feet of their invaders.

It was said that the Evil god Dierguth had been greatly angered; the use of a lustrous blue mineral known as Rigold threatened to render his undead legions powerless. Determined to thwart the powers of

Cood, he caused earthquakes so that the land was weakened enough to fall to the final blow - the Great Catastrophe.

There were also those dwarves who banded together in the belief that resistance would be the key to. regaining their cherished freedom. They called themselves Bzonlras, which is the Elgaard Dwarven wordEor "freedom-fighters." Rigold, known by the dwarves as the Bane of the Undead, served as a protection against the draining powers of undead when it was activated through the proper ceremonies.

In the years following total destruction Verdaise, as the remains of Woldham was named by the Lichlords, rose [rom the ashes.

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The LICHLORD COUNCIL

Inexhaustible determination, a vengeful and unpredictable ternperment, and a consuming hunger for power makes the Lich lords a da ngerous force in the struggl e to control Western Duur.

Yet, with all of their abilities, the Lichlords have not always posed a threat to the surrounding kingships. In Iact, when the Elgaard Dwarves were at th ir p aks in power, the Li hlords' strength wa undermined by constant bickering and treachery among themselves.

Dierguth, god of the undead, granted enternal life to five exceptionally Evil and cunning spellcasters - Kemal, Garian, Zekur, Frasys, and Darselai (detailed under the section The Lichlord Council).

It was Dierguih's plan to establish a kingdom or the undead; he impatiently waited Ior a leader to emerge. Dierguth wa certain that, in time, on' of the Iive Lichlord would prove superior in power and craft and would therefore be strong enough to rule his kingdom. However, the god was also keenly aware of the hypocrisy and jealousy among his five Lichlords,

Only the Lichlord Kemal Eearlessly indulged in the ceaseless. brutal raids on the town of Oribrand. The other Lichlords retreated to distant countrysides to build stronger bases of power before facing the arm ies of the d warven kings. Se I uded and war hful, they spent their energies doubledealing, plotting each other' _ failures,

Dierguth had been observing the ri e of a promising young magic-user named ightbay, whose extensive knowledge of undead rituals and lore produced an unrivaled talent for creating new monsters. For many years, the evil sorcerer resided deep inside the Forest of Toredo on the banks of the Fingers of Twilight river. His Ioruiied casde was the subject of countless tales of mystery and honor.

irange creatures were seen roaming through the fore L near the castle gates; the

tench f death wafted over the high ca tie walls and hung over the forest like a cloud of doom. The once-sparkling Fingers of Twilight became fouled with corpses. When its dark and swollen waters overflowed upon the ba 0 ks of the ci ty of P nogwyn, the town became ridden wi th a strange childhood plague. The undead Chi Idren of Pnogwyn were the unfortunate results of this plague ( ee New Monsters). This unexpected triumph convinced Di rguth that N' was the onl sorcerer with

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enough talent and ambition to successfu l1y govern his future kingdom.

Nightbay 's wishes to know the secrets of life everlasting were answered while plundering the tombs in the eastern land of Sepuhri. Deep inside those dark musky catacombs, ightbay uncovered a tome revealing [he means to become a Iich. Obsessed with obtaining ih necessary omportents to perform the ceremony, Nightbay was driven to near madness, longing for the eternal powers of a lich.

Finally, standing upon the ancient shrine of Dierguth in the forest oE Toredo, Nightbay screamed his praises of Evil as he impaled himself upon the tusk of a war mammoth.

Angered by Nightbay's impulsive sacri[icc, Dierguth left the body to rot upon the bloodied altar for many years. When the Elgaard Dwarve di covered a gem that prevented the undead from draining life energy (see Rigold-Bane oj the Undead in the Magic Items section), Dierguth pursued his dream of an undead kingdom with even greater fervor.

The five Lich lords were now con ti n ua 11 y beset by petty q uarre Is an d chi I di sh tirades. Poorly armed and equipped regiments made mauers even worse. It was then Dierguih realized that the only one who could create an army of undead was Nightbay, whose skeleton still lay on the altar in an open embrace of death, rna ked by old growths of rotted leaves, twisted grasses, and weeds.

Prompted by the disadvantages of their current situation, Dierguth brought Night. bay back from the dead and, in a vision. instructed him on what he wished done. Following his god's orders. Nightbay returned 10 his fortress and began creating a legion of undead. Raiding graveyards for corpses and tombs of the rich for wraiths and spectres. ighibay buill an army and wai led [oJ' the Great Catastrophe I hat Dierguth foretold in the vision.

Of the other Lichlords, only Kerna] ontested Dierguth's command to make Nightbay their leader. ince Kemal felt that he served as the most loya I fearless crea iure in the service of Dierguth, he Ielt betrayed. Kernal turned on Niglubay in a fury of spells and curses.

Following the deadl y struggle, N ightbay reigned victorious - but not without cost. The youngest Lichlord, Frasys, was caught

in the midst of a pells cro sfire and killed.

-~"'!!'!'I!""------

As a result, Nightbay permanently lost the sigh I. of his left eye. H uddled a t his feet la y Kernal, screaming in pain, pleading [or mercy, his belly ripped open. Pink ribbons of intestines protruded from the decaying flesh.

ightbay allowed Kemal to live, but never permitted the wounds of the le set Lichlord to heal. As a lesson in ternal

ervitude, Kemal endure with his festering intestine sagging {rom his iomach, FolJowi ng the onfrontation, N ighibay became the undisputed leader of Verdaise and won allegiance from the [our surviving Lichlords,

Then it happened-the signal from Dierguth that the appointed hour had arrived.

I THE COUNCIL MEMBERS I

From their home base of Verdaise, the Lichlords launch attacks on other lands that have potential for starting suecessfu I colonies and where there appears to be a strong threat to the existence of the undead.

To carry out these operations, each of the four liches of the Council controls an undead legion (see Legion section). A typical legion consists of one Death Dragon, seven War Mammoths, four pectres, twenty wraiths. and up to ten thousand lesser undead. Some of the more powerful undead, such as vampires and ghosts, are sometimes in a legion, but they usually have more special tasks to perform.

The great Iich Nightba.y is the Commander-in-Chid of all undead legions and is also the keeper of many sacred rites that honor Dierguth and create replacements for the legions.

Once a month, the Lichlord Council holds a three-day meeting within the great batholith (standing stone) in central Verdaise. Inside the batholith is a magnificent obsidian palace where the Council holds discussions on trade, religion, and progress in colonization, It is also at this time that visitors will be received. A visitor must be Evil or Neutral in alignment (preferably undead) and of very high rank. No person of Good alignment will ever receive audience - and live to tell of it.

Special Spells and Abilities

Nightbay and the other Lichlords have been granted special spells and abiliries by Dierguth that can be used an unlimited number of times per day. Except where noted below, these spells are the same as those found in the standard rule books.

CLERICAL SKILL 1

Detect Magic - the item must be touched - works automatically,

Protection From Good this .is permanent and only works for the Lich1ord.

Resist Cold - no cold may harm a Licb-

Nightbay ST: 14, IT: 18, IN: 16, DX: n. SM: 11, AP: 8 AC: 0, HTK: 19DB Mf/: 6" AL: Lawful/Evil AT: I, DM: 1-10 THACO:7

Special:

• +1 or better magic weapon to hit.

• Melee hits by Nightbay cau e Paralyzation for 3-]2 rounds (save negates) . ., Immune EO Charm, Sleep, Enfeeblemerit, Pol ymorph, Cold, Electrici [y, Insanity or Death spells and symbols. • Has special abilities as per Spells and Abilities above. • May control any undead (other than Lichlords) that are Neutral or Evil in align men t tha t he encounters for an unlimited amount of time. He does not need to be in contact with the undead

Deserip tion:

Tall (6'5") and stately, Nightbay towers

over the other Lichlords. He walks with t -=======~~~~~~~~==::::=

a brisk gail, his back erect and one arm -

crossing his chest.

One eye was lost in a battle with the Lichlord Kemal, but it has since been replaced by a. many-faceted crystal that enables him to view various parts of the kingdom through similar kindred crystals, ones that have been strategically placed in central locations around Verdaise.

Nigh tbay is most often seen wearing a jewel-studded crown and adorned in flowing satin and silk violet robes,

Nightbay speaks in a low, guueral growl. When angered, he clenches his bony fists and scrapes his fingertips against his metacarpuls (lower hand bones). ALthough most of his face is fleshless, one eyeball and his long

lord in any way. However, walls of ice, ete., will work.

CLEmCAL SKILL 2

Know Alignment- within a 15' radius. It takes six seconds to discover any individual's alignment.

CLEmCAL SKILL J

Speak With Dead - this allows a Lichlord to speak with any deceased humanoids of non-Good alignment.

CLERICAL SKlLL 4

Tongues - a Lichlord may speak and understand all languages.

Fear - the sight of a Lichlord.causes anyone not saving vs. Spell to be overcome with fear and Ilee for 2-7 rounds (unless attacked and hit or a Remove Fear spell is cast upon the individual). This only applies to characters Skill 5 or above, as any character below Skill 5 will automatically flee in fear; no save allowed.

OTHER SPECIAL ABILITIES:

Immunity to Hold and Feeblemind Spells - Licblords cannot be affected by these spells.

Immunity to all poisons.

AT: I, DM: IDIO THACO:7

SPecial (in addition to those I:n SPecial Spells and Abilities):

• + I or better weapon to hit,

• Hits by the Lichlord cause Paralyzation for 3-12 rounds (save negates).

• Immune to Charm, Sleep, Enfeeblement, Polymorph, Cold, Electricity, Insanity, Death Spell, and Death Symbols.

Skill 4 - Mist From [he Grave (Clerical), Torture, Fear, Ice Storm, Dig, Polymorph Other, Polymorph Self, Confusion;

Skill 5 - Shroud, Teleport X2;

Skill 6 - Entomb, Death Spell, Repulsion;

Skill 7 - Decompose x2 (clerical), Power Word Stun, Reverse Gravity, Vanish; Skill 8 - Mind Blank, Power Word BlindX2;

Skill 9 - Power Word Kill.

tongue have never decayed. Nigblbay has a habit of licking his rotted teeth during conversational pauses, emiuing soft sucking sounds.

Spells -

(Magic-user except where indicated):

Skill I - Burning Hands, Magic Missile x2;

Skill 2 - ESP, Levitate, Mirror Image, Scare, Invisibility;

Skill 3 - Dispel Magic, Fly, Hold Person, Slow, Suggestion, Lightning Bolt;

The Lichlord Council

T· he other four Lichlords-Zekur, Kemal, Garian, and Darselai-share the following common statistics, although each has different spell casting abilities.

AC: 0, HTK: 17D8 MV:6"

AL: Lawful/Evil

• Has special abilities as given above.

• Characters under Skill 5 will flee in fear upon sight of a Lichlord; no save allowed, • May control any undead of Neutral or Evil alignment (other than another Lichlord) encoun teredlor an un limited amount of time.

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Zekur

ST: 17 (+1, +1). IN: 18, IN: 14 DX: 17 (+2, -3), SM: 15 (+1), AP: 10

In life, Zekur was tall and gaunt (about 6'3") with a large nose and dark piercing eyes. These characteristics remained with him even in death, for he never decomposed.

Zekur walks in swift, long strides, He speaks in a low, deep voice edged with ten-

Kemal

ST; 12, IT: 18, IN: 10 DX: 7, SM: II, AP; 8

In life, Kemal was short (aboUlS'5") and stout and was fair-skinned with reddish hair. He remained an OU(C<lSl for most of his miserable lifetime. The townfolk laughed at his obesity despite his reputation for being an Evil sorcerer with a vengeful disposition.

sion. He is the only Lichlord that salutes Nightbay by knocking together the knuckles of his clenched fists. Nightbay oIemnly acknow ledges the sa lu te and is considering having all his legions adopt the salutation.

Zemur was a sorcerer of high repute in his past life. He lived near Rusbbury Mound in a lower at the Fork of the Crystal Rivers until one day he mysteriously disappeared. Unknown to his mends, Zekur was corrupted by Dierguth and spent the

It's not known when Kemal Iirst carne to WesternDuur but his deeds are well documen ted. He terrorized the town of Oribrand with his hunger for living flesh.

Because of an unsuccessful coup, Kemal lost in his auempt to displace Nightbay as ruler of Verdaise. He is destined to wander through undeath with his entrails protruding from his decaying body (he knows no spells to cure himself; also Nightbay is magically keeping him in this condition). The wounds ccntinually fester, so a foul

next several years laboriousl y preparing for his eventual sacrifice.

Currently, Zekur is in charge of the undead legion that is attempting to colonize the land of Motoothra, across the Sea of Dreams.

Sensitive to any light, he is always covered in dark wool robes with a violet hood. Fearing Nightbay, he is loyal but cautious. His excellent military mind and command of the legion makes him a valuable ally to Nightbay.

Spells (magic-user except w here indicated); Skill 1 - Burning Hands, Charm Person, Feather Fall, Magic Missile, Shield;

Skill 2 - Darkness 15-foOl radiu , Fool's Gold, Invisibility, Mirror Image, Scare; Skill 3 - Fireball, Haste, Lightning Bolt, Slow, Suggestion;

Skill 4 - Dig, Wall of Ice, Fumble, TOTture, Mist From the Grave (clerical), Plant Growth, Dimension Door;

Skill 5 - Become Non-Corporeal, Wall of Iron, Teleport X2, Hold Monster, Contact Other Plane;

Skill 6 - Death Spell, Project Image, Repulsion;

Skill 7 - Limited Wish, Phase Door, Statue,

Skill 8 - Maze, Mind Blank.

stench surrounds him at all times and alerts anyone up to 30 feet away that he is approaching. In constant pain, Kemal often moans and speaks in gasps with long pauses. He wears black robes of satin that partially conceal his dissipating body.

Though Kernal is the weakest of the Lichlords, he is the most covetous of Nightbay's position. The memory of his defeat by Nightbay keeps him from attempting further treachery but it is no secret that he would like to see Nightbay fail in his post and be disgraced before the eyes of Dierguth. If it weren't for his unsurpassed abilities to establish colonies in the south through fear, Nigblhaywould have eliminated him long ago.

Spells (magic-user spells except where indicated):

, Skill 1 - Jump, Shocking Grasp, Magic Missile

Skill 2 - Detect Invisibility, Invisibility, Scare, Web, Pyrotechnics

Skill 3 - Suggestion, Haste, Phantasmal Force, Fireball, Hold Person;

Skill 4 - Torture X2, Dig, Minor Globe of Invulnerability, Polymorph Other, Confusion, Ice Storm

Skill 5 - Enhanced Animate Dead (derical), Stone Shape, Cone of Cold, Cloud Kill, Airy Water

Skill 6 - Spirit Wu.ck, Move Earth, Disintegrate

Skill 7 - Simulacrum, Vanish, Decompose (clerical)

Skill 8 - Glassteel, Trap the Soul.

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Ga-riall

ST: LO, IT: 18, IN: 13 DX: 8, SM: 12, AP: 12

Garian had been an extremely skillful cleric for a number of years during his past life and had participated in a variety of noble deeds. However, he was captured by the Cecrops (see New MOTlsters) near the Misty Waters of Gloom, where be was repeatedly tortured until his weary mind could no longer distinguish between Good and Evil. Torture left its mark on Garian, who was rendered crippled and bent,

After his release, Garian wandered the countryside, flat remembering who he was or where he lived. He stumbled upon a book of invocations (to Dierguth) and began war hipping the mighty god in hopes of life everlasting. This gave his life meaning once again and Dierguth acknowledged his reverence by granting him spells that would surpass his earlier great skills. Soon, Garian was granted entry into the Lichlord Council.

In undeath, Garian retains his tell-tale limp and broken posture. He wears the same loose-fitting rags as he did in life,

barely covering his Skeletal body. He speaks in a stutter.

Garian worships Nightbay with almost as much passion as he worships Dierguth, In return for ills loyalty, Nightbay awarded Canan an undead legion LO colonize the far northern lands of the Ice Marshes. Garian often returns to confer with Nightbay about plans and strategies, which Nightbay finds flattering.

Spells (all spells are clerical):

Skill 1 - Command X2, Cause Ligbt Wounds X2, Detect Good, Darkness, Foul Food and Drink X2;

Skill 2 - Chant X2, Hold Person X2.

Darselai

57: 13, IT: 18, IN: 14 DX: II, SM: 12, AP: 15

Darselai was the lover of the famed magic user, Protograth. Beautiful and intelligent, she found herself becoming increasing in trigued by Protograth's spells and potions. She became angry when Protograth laughed at her for yearning to learn the ways of his magic.

In her angel, Darselai crept into the laboratory late at night when Prorograrb slept. For years she studied hi books and experiments in secret. She al 0 went on mysterious adventures [0 improve her ski] Is while Protograth believed she went on religious pilgrimages. This cominued until the Iateful night when Protograth Iound her in rhe laboratory. Afight ensued and Darselai successfully Polymorphed the wizard perma nen t I y into <I toad, w hich she now keeps as a pet.

Darselai continued her studies in the lab, becoming quite a renowned sorcerer in her own right. In the winter of the twentieth year, she found a book in the far corner of the attic mat spoke on the glories of Dierguth. The great power of evil and eternal undeath attracted her more than fortune ever could. She made a death pact with Dierguth and became a Licblord of the highest order.

Due to her cunning, Nightbay gave her command of an undead legion and responsibli ty for eradicating the dwarven freedom fighters known as the Bzontras Irom Verdaise,

Her favorite torture is to slice the skin of victims with the sharp edges of volcanic

rocks, allowing the blood to flow onto each one. until a Rigold gem is discovered. She then crushes the gem, laughing in a highpitched giggle. Her name is never spoken among the dwarves, who refer to her only as the Unholy Mistress of Sorrow.

Darselai speaks with great nourish, her arms waving in the air every time she makes a point, She wears long blood-red robes of silk with a shawl of braided dwarven hair that drapes over one shoulder. Decorating her throat is a necklace of shrunken eyeballs, interspersed with golddipped teeth from fallen Bzonrras.

Spells (magic-user except where indicated):

Skill I - Torture x3, Spider Climb, Burning Hands;

Resist Fire, Silence I5-foOl radius X2, Snake Charm;

Skill 3 - Animate Dead, Continual Darkness, Dispel Magic, Prayer X2, Curse X2. Glyph of Warding;

Skill 4 - Cause Serious Wounds X3, Protection from Good !O-Ioot radius, Mist From Grave;

Skill 5 - Enhanced Animate Dead, Shroud, Cause Critical Wounds X2; Slay Living, Insect Plague, Flame Strike;

Skill 6 - Blade Barrier, Word of Recall, Harm;

Skill 7 - Decompose, Unholy Word.

Skill 2 - Continual Darkness, Stinking Cloud, Scare, Shatter, Levitate;

Skill 3 - Dispel Magic, Lightening Bolt. Gust of Wind, Fly, Slow;

Skill 4 - Dig, Curse, Polymorph Other, Fumble, Confusion

Skill 5 - Enhanced Animate Dead (clerical), Distance Distortion, Cone of Cold, Teleport xz:

Skill 6 - Repulsion, Invisible Stalker, Death Spell, Phase Door, Reverse Gravity, Statue;

Skill 7 - Polymorph Any Object, Symbol.

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The UNDEAD LEGIONS

From the beginning, the undead Legions were an important part of Nightbay's plans for conquest. The Legions were created from thousands and thousands of undead gathered hom around the world. In many cases, Nightbay's agents would buy whole villages of people from an unscruplous chieftain, kill them all, then ship the bodies to Nightbay.

Once the first legion was created it was easier to gather bodies. After every battle, Nightbay and his agents were careful to gather up all the fresh bodies.

But the Legions could not have been horn withou t the hel p of Diergurth. He has bestowed a significant portion of his personal power upon the Legions and he is physically affected if large numbers of these undead are killed. For every 100 undead warriors killed, Diergruth will susLain I HTK of damage and will be distracted with the pain for ID4 melee rounds. This damage lasts for the duration of the battle. Hover 20 HTK of damage is taken, Diergru th will manifest himsel [i n the area in which there are the most undead casualties just long enough to let loose a 20D6 lightning bolt. This attack is always successful.

GM NOTE: No statistics are given for Dierguth because he will onJy attack with the lightening bolt; he also cannot be attacked directly (weapons, spells, etc.) since he will manifest himself in spirit form.

There are many legions now; they constantly move through the main gate of the caldera to attack and occupy the lands around them.

A 1YPICAL LEGION

Legions primarily consist of skeletons; sometimes zombies and ghouls are included as irregular forces but, although they are Neutral, they are sti ll not as dependable as skeletons. Skeletons are totally obedient; they will do exactly as they are wid, no more, no less. The skeletons wiJl tallow the directives of their commanders. These skeletons have been ordered by Nightbay, their creator, to 'report' to wherever he is if their commanders are killed. Nightbay will then dispatch the skeletons to new units.

Each legion Contains 4.000 warriors.

They are divided into cohorts of 500 skeletons and undead each. Each cohort is divided iruo .. camp of 100 skeletons/'undead each. The eight cohorts of the legion all have special lunctious. Five cohorts are designed [or speed and power. Two cohorts have special equipment to build roads, bridges, and siege equipment. TIH' cighth cohort is a headquarter/supply unit. This unit guards prisoners; it also has other undead available [or different uses,

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Each camp of 100 skeletons is divided into even sma ller raiding parties of 20 to 30. A cohort usually has 4 camps on the line wi th one camp left about a mile behind as a reserve.

An average undead warrior carries a spear and a dagger. Sometimes the first line of spearmen will have shields. Other groups, usually one camp per cohort, are armed with swords, shields, and even armor. Another such camp will be armed with bows, with 40 arrows per bow. These two camps also have daggers. Some skeletons, especially those created on the battlefield, will carry a special weapon that they carried in life and with which they were buried or died.

The undead legions were great successes and swept other armies before them time and time again. There are some practical reasons far ih is ca tastrophe. Un I ike a regular army, an undead legion doesn't need to rest, sleep, oreal. It doesn't need campfires or songs. It doesn't worry about families at home or the fate of the crops. It can march in heavy rains, snowstorms, and broiling sun. While most armies march about 10 to I.? miles a day, an undead legion can easily march 50 to 60 miles. A legion can fight for as long as the weapons hold out. In fact, it is usually the weapons that an individual warrior carries tha t gi ve ou t before he does.

With this great advantage, undead armies are extremely dead.ly. In battle after battle they ha ve marched arou nd the enemy and caught him in the flank or rear. Strategically, they can easily shatter the long fragile supply lines that feed and support armies. Especially in the mountainous terrain they inhabit, the loss of an important village or pass can mean destruction for an army pi mortals.

The undead legions afe led by the best fighters and generals of the past. Nightbay has dealt with numerous underworlds to find those who were the best fighters and leaders duri ng their lifetime. Some of these commanders are only skeletons themselves but Nightbay has restored their intellects. Others have been turned into wights or wraiths. Usually there is one wraith comma rider for every 100 warriors. Some un its have wore direction and have been given one wraith, wight, or spectre for every 50 warriors.

All undead undergo training and instruction to the limits of their abilities. In the case of skeletons, this means being able to march, d.rill, and figh t. To prod uce more powerful undead, the generals that Nightbay has brought from the dead instruct them. Some of the more promising students are even given their appearances of life back and are enrolled in great military schools in the West and East.

SKELETON RANKING

S. keletons are divided by size and ability into different ranks as shown below. Skeletons of different ranks intermingle in the line, but the commanders of the army often arm them differently and keep the best righters in special elite groups.

FIRST RANK: These are weak and damaged skeletons. They can be missing body parts. Usually they are in the from line of any assault as cannon fodder. Abou t50% of a legion is First Rank skeletons.

First Rank Skeleton

AC:· 8, HTK: ID8 MV: 12"

AL: Neutral

IT: Non-

AT: I, DM: J-6 (spear) THACO:20

SECOND RANK: These skeletons usually go into the Archer Skeleton camps because they are just strong enough to pull a bow. Archer Skeletons never use crossbows or slings. They have been seen working siege engines. About 25% of a legion is Archer Skeletons.

Second Rank (Archer) Skeleton AC .. 8, HTK: lD8+3

MV: 12'"

AL: Neutral

IT: Non-

AT: I, DM: 1-6 THACO: 17

Weapons: Bow with 40 arrows.

THIRD RANK: These skeletons are good veteran fighters. They can be used as spearmen, ohen giving the extra punch that breaks an enemy line. They have often been used as guards and garrison troops. About 20% of the Third Rank Skeletons have been given an intellect by Nightbay ..

There are many leading groups of First and Second Rank Skeletons into battle. About 20% of a legion is Third Rank Skeletons.

Third Rank Skeleton

A c. 7, HTK: 1D8+4 MV: 12"

ilL: Neutral

IT: Non-/Low (see above)

AT: 1, Dm: 1-8 (sword) or ] -6 (spear) THACO: 17

Weapons: broad sword, spear

FOURTH RANK: These troops are the elue of the legion. They are heavily armored and well-equiped. They are placed in special "break-through" units which rollover any opposition. While skeletons are usually mindless automatons, these troops even exhibit a sense of espirit de corps and will often help a fellow Fourth Ranker who might be in trouble. They are also used as personal guards in headquar-

ter units and for pecial mis ions. Some also direct !IOOpS in the field. Fourth Rank

keletons can usually talk (75%), but they prefer not 10, 5% of the legion are Fourth Rank troops,

Fourth Rank Skeleton AC: 4, HTK' 2D8 MV:9"

AL: Neutral IT: Low

AT: 1, DM: 1-8 (sword), 1-6 (spear) THACO: 14

Weapons: Broad sword, spear

COMMANDERS: Usually the command group consists of one wight, wraith, or spectre for each 100 skeletons. There are

usually from 40 to 50 higher level undead in all. Mummies are unsuited for the long marches and harsh condiuon on the campaign and other undead like vampires and ghouls are hard to train and do not obey orders.

Wight

A C: 5, HTK: 4D8+3 MV: 12"

AL: Lawful/Evil IT: Average

AT: I, DM: 1-4 plus Skill level drain THACO: 15

Wraiths

AC: 4, HTK: 5D81+3 NIT/: 12"/24"

AL: Lawful/Evil IT: Very THACO: 15

Special: Can only be hit with silver weapons (for half damage) or magical weapons (full damage).

Spectres

AC: 2, HTK: 7D8+3 MV: 15"/30"

AL: LawfulfEvil IT: High

THACO: 13

Special: Unaffected by Sleep. Charm, Hold, and Cold-based spells; + 1 or better magic weapon needed to hit.

TACTICS

The undead legions are powerful forces on the battlefield. Many of their opponents are unnerved by the large numbers of absolutely silent undead. Some units have broken and run be ron: the skeletons even reached their line.

The standard tactic practiced by all legions is the wedge. Their mil itary philosophy states that to break the enemy's line is the rnost impertam objecuve in a battle. This way, the bits and pieces can be destroyed one at a time.

Therefore, the legions form up one to two thousand skeletons ill a triangular [ormation a nd send it smash i n.g towards a I ine. The rest of the legion protects the Ilanks and rear of the wedge. The formation presents a front bristling with spears, whiJe archers in the back row and on the Hanks pepper the enemy line.

In the wedge, the Iirst few forces are made of Fir t Rank Skeletons with Third and even Fourth Rank Skeletons holding the center. These act as a stifIener to give the wedge extra push.

Once the line is broken, the order is given to turn right or left; the whole wedge turns with machine-like precision.

Few armies have been able to SLOP the wedge from breaking their line. One way the wedge has been fought is with masses of cavalry. The undead fear horses and will avoid them. The cavalry win rush up to the wedge, attack wijh throwing weapons, then retreat. The wedge moves too slowly to fol low,

Another successful but risky tactic is to smash through the flanking for es and take rhe wedge from behind.

With the help of these tactics, along with the intimidating effect that these undead have on their opponents. the legions are in the process of expanding (heir territories beyond the caldera. The land might have [0 brace itself for another round of destruction i.f the Lichlord's plans are fulfilled.

UNDEAD LEGION TACTICAL SETUPS

ENEMY LINE

FLANKING ulTS ' 6 c

"'~ 'f \

ATTACK FORMATION

WEDGE DETAIL

THIRD & FOURTH RANK

ARCHERS

ENEMY LINE

Strategies for breaking undead wedge attack.

FLANK OR RE,AR c:::~~ LI ATTAC~

------------------------------------------------------------------~ll

DWARVEN BZONTRAS

nels. It is within this maze of umnels that the Bzontras hide; the hollow basalt passages provide an excellent means of movernem for raiding and escape. The Bzon tras move their camp constantly and set up traps, such as 2·foot deep puddles of holy water, in tile lava tunnels to deter undead and other Evil beings. They also have several concealed doors onnect:ing the tunnels.

Entrances into these lava tunnels are nearly impossible to detect, for the landscape of the terrain is covered with layers of ash and pumi e and the jagged basalt formations that lauer the land are split by thousands of fissures and splintered crevi-

ces. The lava tunnels the undead locate are

In [he years following the volcanic almost always discovered through chance

eruption.the outer layer of lava cooled or mishap.

faster than ,. . . , . ~}':~'p' • ,', '. .. ,'., do' t:lliI •••••• IIiI~

WHO THEY ARE

The select group of dwarven freedom fighters. seeking to reclaim their land, are called "Bzoniras," which in the dwarven tongue means "freedom-fighters". Led by the dwarf, Ernathri the Wild, this band of 200 or so skilled dwarvert fighters have ref used to give up their land to the undead ill hopes that Woldham and its stone tree can be restored to life and beauty.

WHERE THEY rrvz

interconnect; most do not. So il is [he Bzonira's goal to build new passageways that join the myriad o[ tunnels and build a vast undergroundnetworkkrrown only to themselves.

The tunnels reflect darkness: as the lava dries, it turns in to glassy obsidian. Varying significantly ill sue, the tunnel can shrink to two feet and then widen into large caverns ten leet high.

FIGHTING TACTICS

The Bzontras use guerilla tactics, often riding trained Rompos (see New MOtlSlers) across the ashen land of Verdaise, This wa y Lhey are ab Ie to stri ke small groups of undead quickly and viciously. They also try 1.0 assassinate leaders of the

'~~~a; ,!! J ; ;; :'?:"

NEWSPELLS

DECOMPOSE Skill 7 Clerical spell Range: Touch Duration: Permanent

Area of Effect: One person Components: V. M

Time to Cast: 1 round Saving Throw: Negates

Succes fully asung a Decompose spell will cau e the victim [0 stan itching for one round. During the next round, the victim's skin will break into open sores, oozing pus [or 1D4 HTKof damage. The third round, the skin will actively decompose and begin LO fall Irorn the body in chunks, causing 4-16 HTK of damage for this round and every round thereafter. A save vs, Spell is allowed when the spell is initially cast.

The victim will have a -4 on his attack roll for the first two rounds that the spell is in effect. After that, he will be unable to attack at all until he is cured.

To counteract the effects, a Cure Disease spell or two Dispel Magic spells must be caSt- or the victim's sores must be bathed in one vial of hoi y water for every 5 HTK of damage taken. These treatments halt further decomposition. However, only a Cure Wounds spell, porion, etc. or rest will regain 10sL HTK and fully restore the skin.

The material component for this spell is a.n ounce of zombie flesh shavings.

MIST FROM THE GRA VE Skill 4 clerical spell

Range: 12"

Duration: 1 minute per Skill level Area of Effect: 120-£00t radius Components: V, S, M

Time to Cast: 12 seconds

Saving Throw: None

When this spell is cast, a thick fog rises to a height of 20 feet above the cemetery ground (or any damp, marshy land). No character within the spell's area of effect will be able LO see more than five feet in any direction without some magical means of doing so. If a strong light source is being used, nothing a L all will be seen because the light will reflect off of the mist. Examples of ligh t sources that woul d not be refl ected are glowing swords, torch light, or a coolcolored light. Of course, if there is no light source or magical means of seeing, nothing can be seen.

Wind will not blow the mist away because it constantly rises [rom the earth for the spell's duration.

Undead are not affected by this mist and can see through it easily.

If the spell is not cast in a graveyard, it requires a splinter from a wooden coffin as a material component.

\

SHROUD

Skill 5 magic-user spell Range: Touch

Duration: .1 round per Skill level Area Of Effect: I person Components: V. S. M

Time to Cast: 5 rounds

Saving Throw: None

When the spell is cast, a shroud of darkness envelopes the caster (or the recipient). The Shrouded character will become invisible whenever in a darkened area. The Shroud confers the same Hide in Shadows percentage thai a thief of the same Skill level as the caster would have.

However, a Shrouded character can be detected when walking in front of a solid object such as furniture or a tree because the object is blocked from view. Also, the Shroud spell will not serve its purpose in daylight or under conditions of a Continual Light, although a Shroud spell can be used to dispel a Continual Light spell.

Shrouded persons do not become visible if engaged in baule. In melee, they are -4 to be hit and have a+4 to all of their saving throws.

The material component of a Shroud spell is a 2-fool-square piece of black cloth.

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TORTURE

Skill 4 magic-user spell

Range: 25 feet + 5 feet per Skill level Duration: 1 round per every 2 Skill levels Area of Effect: 1 person

Components: V, S, M

Time to Cast: 1 segment

Saving Throw: Special

By using this spell, the aster can physically cause wounds of torture. This spell only works on one man-sized or smaller humanoid per casting.

Each round the victim takes I DB HTK of damage, half damage if the character saves \IS. Spells. If the victim fails to save. the quick, sharp and unexpected pains will make it necessary for him to sa ve vs. his SM. If he fails this save, the victim has a -5 lO hit and damage. The save vs, SM must be made every round that the spell is in effect. Any Lime a character rakes over half his HTK in

umulative damage while the spell is in effect, he will offer to surrender or attempt to flee if surrender is not accepted.

The material component is a knife, which is used to make a small cut on the thumb tip of the caster. Concentration is not required to continue the spell after the first round.

13

BECOME NON-CORPOREAL, (Reversible)

kill 5 magic-user spell Range: Touch

Duration: Two rounds per Skill level of caster

Area of Effect: creature touched Components: V, S, M

Time 10 Cast; 5 Rounds

Saving Throw: none

When this spell is cast, the character touched may become a non-corporeal entity.

In a non-corporeal state, the affected character's base AC is 6; the AC i then adj u ted for the armor worn.

The non-corporeal character can only be hit with silvered or magical weapons. In addition, he may float through the air as though flying at a base movement rate of 18" and may seep through cracks in walls and under doors. (Personal items are unaffected by the spell.)

The material component is a tiny lit candle that must burn all the way down. As it bums out, the black smoke must be inhaled by the caster.

The reverse of the spell changes a nOI1- corporeal living creature b~ck. into its pr.evious state. The undead vicurn wil l still have whatever powers he had in its noncorporeal state. If the victim is an undead, the spell will cause the victim's spirit [0 become skeletal and LO have the same AC and rnovernem as a skeleton. Ircan be hit by normal weapons (1/2 damage from edged weapons) and there is a 10% chance that on the first hit taken, the skeleton will crumble to dust.

A saving throw negates the spell (when using the reverse spell). The material component for the reverse spell is an ouace of bone dust.

ENTOMB

Skill 6 magic-user spell Range: 60 feet Duration: Permanent

Area of Effect: One man-sized or smaller humanoid

Components;' V, S, M

Time 10 Cast: 6 segments

Saving Throw: Special

When an Entomb spell is cast, one humanoid will be buried alive at the location that he or she occupies. The victim will be gripped by an unseen force and dragged underneath the ground, the din churning upwards to allow passage 01 the body. He will automatically sustain 106 HTK of damage Irom being dragg d through the ground. In lWO rounds, the victim will be buried on an angle - the head being covered by two Ieet.

A saving throw is allowed. If successfu I. the victim will only be buried up to his waist. However, if the victim is not pulled OUt of the ground before another Entomb is cast on him, he will be automatically buried alive the next round; this lime no save

applies. .. .

There will be enough au for the victim to survive for two rounds as the dirt is tightly packed. During this time be may only cast spells U1,1t have verbal components. For the next two rounds the victim must save. vs. his SM or become unconscious. On the next three rounds a save vs. SM must be made or the victim will die.

The victim will have no room to move underground. Without magic, he will be unable to fight or escape without help.

A combined ST of at least 44 is required LQ pull a character out before he is buried alive.

The spell will only work when the intended victim is standing on soil or any grassy area, However, a Skill 13 or beuer spell caster may bury a character alive in solid stone, following the same rules; the only difference is that the victim sustains 1010 HTK of damage £rom being dragged through the stone.

The material component i a metal hinge from a casket.

14

ENHANCED ANIMATE DEAD Skill 5 clerical spell Range: 30 feet

Duration: Permanent

Area of Effect: 20-foO[ diameter circle Components: V, S, M

Time to Cast: I round

Saving Throw: Special

The casting of this spell causes any dead humanoid to animate within the area of effect. The dead does DOL have to be within sight and may be in a crypt or grave. In such a case, the grave will be unearthed and crypt door thrown open - even doors Wizard Locked by a spell caster of Skill 12 or lower will open. However, walls will not be broken.

As with the original Animate Dead spell, undead that already exist may be controlled with this spell.

The s pen cas LeT can ani rna te and control 308 HTK of undead times his Skill level. For example, a Skill 4 spell caster may control 6 zombies, which are 208 HTK each.

Intelligent undead are allowed a save vs.

Spells to negate control. Tho e undead with above average intelligence who ave will be extremely hostile. A spell caster of Good alignment cannot use this spell.

The material components for this spell are a skull and a brass key.

NEW MAGIC ITEMS

BRAIN DUST

.. Chsracters within 10 feel of the released dust must save us. IT on a D20 or be affected.

.. Affecled character's mind-s will be linked to Nigh/bay's so that the lich can read his every thought.

• Will work until all traces are thoroughly scrubbed off of the character's body,

Brain Dust is a greyish dust that was created by Nightbay, As the use of Rigold beca.memorewidespread, Nightbay needed a means to insure his power over the living.

The Brain Dust was made from combining the pulverized bones of Nightbay's enemies (those that he did not feel were worth turning into undead) with obsidian powder. After enchanting [he resulting substance, Nightbay covered his undead warriors with the Brain Dust before they went into battle against living beings,

Brain Dust is stored in glass vials that hold enough dust to cover five undead warriors in each one, The nature of the Brain Dust can be detected magically,

The Dust is dispersed into the air whenever an undead being that is covered with the dust is struck by any weapon, The dus t will turn into a foul-smelling red gel upon contact with holy water.

Plain water will wash Brain Dust off with no effects; to counteract the effects of the Dust, the Bzontras bathe immediately after each battle,

VALUE: 5,000 gp/vial

DEATHHORN

• Its sound will summon up to 30 skeletons and zombies from within a 500-foot radius; these will appear in ID8 rounds,

·If the summoner is Neutral the un~ dead will be controllable for 5D4 rounds. 1/ the summoner is Evil the undead can be controlled for one day" Any Good character using the horn will take 2D8 HTK of damage.

·When the horn is played us.ing a reed made of dwarven skin, the skin of all living beings within a 500- foot radius will begin to decompose (see below for damage),

• The horn may be used by any character class.

The Death Horn is an ivory reed instrument made from the hollowed tusk of an

"

immature mammoth. The keys of the horn are made from pieces of fingerbone taken from dead shire-folks. The reed is made from dried sugar cane,

Playing the hom produces foul sounds similar to the screams and moans of tortured beings, This sound will summon up to 30 skeletons and zombies, if within a 500·foot radius, The undead will appear in 1 D8 rounds, depending on how far away they are from the horn player,

If the summoner is Neutral, the undead will be controllable for 5D4 rounds, If the summoner is Evil, the undead can be controlled for one da y. A Good character using the horn takes 2-16 HTK of damage,

Another function of the horn is to cause the decomposition of living beings within a500-foot radius, When played with a special reed made of dwarven skin, the horn causes the skin of all living creatures to suddenly decompose (except for the horn's user), Each round that the instrument is heard inflicts 1·6 HTK of damage as the skin begins to dry and flake, After a to tal of 15 HTK of damage, damage will double as the skin splits into large sores and long strips of flesh fall from the body,

With this reed, the death horn sound travels a shorter radi U5 of 60 Ieet. Covering the ears does not SLOp the HTK of damage because the damage is caused by sound vibrations .hitting the body. No save is allowed, although magic resistance will work,

Anyone killed by a Death Horn becomes a zombie in three rounds.

V ALUE: 10,000 gp

SCROLL OF FATIGUE

.. The magic-user or cleric reading il will be able to read magical writing between lines on the scroll.

• Causes the reader to become fatigued bejore completely reading the scroll,

'" Afler the scroit is read, the reader will be unable to do anything but move at one-half his or her normal movement rate for two hours. No save is allowed.

The Scroll of Fatigue appears to be a normal magical scroll to-any magic-user or cleric who can read it. But, if a Detect Invisibility spell is cast upon it, [he reader will be able to see other magical writings between the lines of the scroll. These writings, while invisible to the naked eye, are perceived subconsciously and will cause the reader to become fatigued before completely reading the scroll,

VALUE: 500 gp

\ ' I

CAPE OF TURNING

• Provides wearer of Good or N eulral alignment with the abilities of a Skill 7 cleric to tum undead.

.. If a character of Evil alignment wears the cape, its magical properties immediately vanish and the inner lining turns todust.

Al first glance, the Cape of Turning appears quite ordinary, It is. made of wool, is void of decoration, and has a small nondescript clasp at the neck, However, the inner lining is a shimmering purple,

The cape provides its wearer with the abilities of a Skill 7 cleric for purposes of turning undead, There is no limit on the amount of times it can be used; however, the cape does not provide its wearer with any clerical spell casting abilities,

VALUE: 15,000 gp

15

HOLY SWORD OF GRISWOLD

.. +4 against all undead.

.. Provides the wielder with +4 to all saves us. Fear upon sight of undead.

.. Blade can shoot holy tuaier for an a,dditional2 HTK of damage to an undead.

.. Can be used twice per day.

.. The compartment in the hilt holds enough holy water for" uses.

The Holy SwoTdof Gnswoldis the magical shortsword of the renowned dwarven fighter. Griswold. The sword is made of steel that has been treated with silver. It has ancient dwarven TUnes carved into the blade and a star sapphire set into the end of the tang.

The holy water is released by exerting extra pressure on the sword's grip.

VALUE: 20,000 gp

CRYSTAL TO

SUMMON ECTOPLASMICS

• User of crystal can summon an Ectoplasmic within 1-12 rounds.

.. Any character may use the crystal. However, an Evil character only has a 2% chance of summoning an E.ctoplasmic.

16~------------------~

The Crystal to Summon Ectoplasmicsis a rare and magnificently cut crystal that hu~s due to th~ bombardment of energy particles bouncing £rom facet to facet inside the crystal.

A character must hum at the same frequency as the crystal until an Ectoplasmic appears (within 1-12 rounds). Once the Ectoplasmic appears, the character can stop humming and converse with the helpful undead. A character using the crystal cannot control [he Ectoplasmic, he can only converse with it (see New Monsters).

VALUE: 8,000 gp

CHAINS OF MANIFESTATION

,. A ny non-corporeal undead that passes into a circle formed from the chains will change to material form, become Armor Class 8, and will be affected by normal weapons.

" Wzll achieve the above effects if used as a weapon against non-corporeal undead by wrapping the chain around the undead.

The Chains of Manifestation are sixinch diameter stone balls of polished obsidian that are linked together on a heavy silver chain. The obsidian stones are about three feet apart on the chain, forming bands of varying length. At the lop of each obsidian ball is a small hole .. This hole is filled with salt crystals that must be blessed by.a Good cleric of at least Skill 15 (or a Skill S dwarven cleric). Then, the chamber is sealed with wax.

. The c~ains are used primarily as protecnon against non -corporeal undead such as wraiths, spectres, etc. Weary travelers in distant and unfamiliar lands often place the chain in a circle upon the ground before sleeping.

If a non-corporeal undead passes over the chain into the circle, the wax seals on the obsidian stones will crack and the salt will burst forth. clearly illuminating the body of the undead intruder. As it becomes visible, the spirit will change to a material form and its Armor Class will drop to that of a zombie' 5 (AC 8). Also, it will be affected by normal weapons. The monster retains all its other abilities. For example, a wraith will still drain Skill levels if it makes a successful hit, but it will have an Armor Class of 8 and have a solid body.

The Chains of Manifestation may also be used as an attack weapon if it can be wrapped around an undead. The attacking character mustfiTst roll Jess than his DXon lD20. He must then also make a "to hit" roll, as with a weapon attack, in order to wrap the chain around the undead. This has the same effect as above (reducing the creature's Armor Class to B).

The Chains of Manifestation can affect

as many undead as there are salt-filled obsidian stones, and the undead do not get savmg throws. However, the Chains of Manifestation will not deter undead creatures from attacking anyone within the cirde. Nor does the chain have any effect upon undead that normally have a material form such as a vampire,

VALUE.: IOO gp/foot

CANDLES OF BElNDER

.. Any character applyi1lg the wax of one Candle Of Beinder to himself will have an Armor Class of 2 for two hours after the wax is applied.

• Can only be used by fighter characters.

Candles of Beinder are made of beeswax.

These candles are three inches in diameter and 18 inches long.

In an effort to develop a brighter burning candle, the dwarven alchemist Beinder developed a plan to combine beeswax with bits of magnesium and sap of the sacred tree ~f stone (the stones that can be changed to Rigold are said to originate from this tree). While the magnesium helped the candle bum brighter. it also helped it to burn faster and caused the wax to shoot from the candle.

By accident, the hot wax sprayed onto Be~nder's arms. Surprise overshadowed any pam. The old alchemist noticed that although the wax remained warm, it did not harden immedia~ely. In fact, it was very ~scous, even whl.le extremely hot, and it did not, roll off hIS arms. When it finally started to harden, the wax was almost impossible to r~move and when the outer layer was cut, It was quickly filled in by the liquid beneath. This gave Beinder the idea that it might be usable as armor.

The candles are found packed in coffers; there are usually 20 candles in a coffer.

The wax from one candle takes three rounds to apply. As the wax is scalding hot, a successful save vs. SM must be made. Anyone not making the roll will take ID6 HTK of damage. The wax will onl y last for two hours before it completely hardens and cracks, becoming useless.

Because the wax is so hot, it has some unique advantages. For example, if a character is wearing Beinder's wax armor and is hit by an undead whose cold touch drains Skill levels, the heal of me wax will negate the Skill-draining touch. (Of course, the monster will still do normal HTK of dama~e with its hand, if applicable.) This wax WIll only stop Skill level drains once. for the cold touch will harden the wax and cause it to crack immediately, losing all powers. Any other cold-based attacks will work in the same manner.

VALUE: 800 gp/per candle

PONTIFICUS' .MA GICAL IVORY TUSKS

Arm of Chance

.. Arm points in the direction of using character's intended goal.

Arm of Misfortune

.. When a question is asked, the arm will shoot out 2-5 strings of flesh. When these strings hit the ground each one will grow into a full-size flesh-eating wight in 2 rounds.

Statue of Control

.. When cast into a silver chalice of water, it forms a ghostly image of an old, bent man.

.. A llotus OwneT to controll-" undead wit hin a I a-foot radius for" rounds. Intelligen; undead save us. SPells at +4 to their roll to negate the effect.

Sta.tue 0/ Empathy

.. When this one-foot high statue is east into a silver chalice of water, an image of a child covered with scars forms and engulfs the owner of the statue in a thin violet mist for .2-7 rounds. No save is allowed.

• Anyone looking at the statue's user must save us. Spells or feel unrelenting pity and sorrow for 2-7 rounds.

• Undead cannot harm the statue's user as long as he or she is covered in the mist.

These items were carved. from a pair of tusks and were taken from a mammoth of unusual size during the annual hunt of King Ponnficus. Each tusk was originally II feet long and weighed 225 pounds. At the king's instructions, each of the tusks was carved into two wind instruments, the Arm Q/Chanceand the Ann 0/ Misfortune, and two small wizard statues, the Statue 0/ Control and the Swlueof Empathy. These items were then sent to the royal mage to be enchanted.

ARM OF CHANCE

One of the instruments is a two-foot long conical tube with one tear-shaped. hole in the large end. When swung and beaten into a tree or wooden post, it emits a lowpitched howl followed by a thump, This noise makes the ground rumble .. Din from the ground is then sucked into a circular vacuum surrounding the tree or post.. From out of the ground rises an ann that is halfcovered wi!.h rotting flesh.

The arm functions much like an Augury spell; it pain ts in the direction that leads to a specific goal that the adventurer requests. The difference is that the arm will not indicate whether Evil or Good will result by following that path. The arm works twice aday and is 75% accurate. It will work within 5 miles of the party's goal.

VALUE: 5,000 gp

ARM OF MISFORTUNE

This instrument is exactly the same as the ODe above except that when the question is asked, the arm will shoot 2·5 strings of flesh, which will form into wights.

Wights

AC: 5, HTK: 408+3 MV: 12"

IT: Average

AL: Lawful/Evil

AT: 1, DM: 1-4 plus HTK drain THACO: 15

Special: Immune to Sleep, Charm, Hold, Paralyzation, and cold-based spells; only affected by magic or silver weapons; drains one Skill level per hii,

VALUE: 8,000 gp

STATUE OF CONTROL

When cast into a silver chalice of water, this small wizard statue forms a ghostly image of an old, bent man that slowly rises in a veil of mist. The statue allows its owner tocontrol 1-4 undead within a 10- foot radius for 4 rounds. (Intelligent undead are allowed a save at +4 to their roll. A successful save negates the effect.)

VA.LUE: 5,000 gp

STATUE OF EMPATHY

The child that forms over the chalice of water stares through empty eye sockets. It will immediately float towards the owner of the statue, engulfing him or her in the thin violet. mist for 2-7 rounds (no save allowed).

Anyone (friend or foe) staring at the owner will see only the image of the child, and must save vs. Spell or feel unrelenting pity and sorrow for 2-7 rounds. Those failing their save will go to great lengths to protect the owner covered in the violet mist, even risking their own lives in battle. In addition, undead will not touch or in an y way harm the ownerfor as long as he or she is covered in the violet mist.

VALUE: 6,000 gp

STAFF OF EARTH FIRE

• Any character within 40 feet of the wielder must save us. StaffS or be hit by lava. 3-18 HTK Of damage is done on the first round and 1-10 HTK of damage is taken on the next 1 D1xl rounds.

.. Brushing off the lava will do an additional 3·12 HTK of damage to the victim.

., Has 20 charges.

Made of twisted greenish-colored basalt, the St4ff of Earth Fire spews a viscous lava from its concave tip when the proper command words are spoken.

A successful save 'Is. Staffs will mean that the Lava missed hitting the character rnaking the save. The staff will do normal damage (1-6 HTK) if the wielder uses it as a norma] staff.

The staff may be recharged by dipping the tip into any basaltic lava flow and speaking the command words backwards.

VALUE: 2,000 gp

FINGERS OF XENADAR

., Sword is +3 against paladins, +2 against any being of Good alignment, and + 1 against any non-Good being.

.. Causes 1 D6 HTK of damage to any Good character who pick:; it up.

The Fingers of XeJUldaris a magical bastard sword with an unusual grip made from the skin of a female paladin's hand.

The sword's grip was made by the Evil magic- user Xenadar. Frustrated by his inability to win the actenrions of a female paladin he was obsessed with, he slew her. He then made the skin hom her hand into a grip for the sword, Fingers of Xenadar. He had the blade forged by d warven slaves.

VALUE: 5,500 gp

17

WAR PAINT

• This paint has different abilities depending on the color (see below).

War Paints are made by the Bzon tra dwarves using sap [rom the trees of the Evern iglu Forest as the magical ingredient. The sap is mixed with crushed nellie seeds and is dyed either red, green, yellow, blue, violet, orange, 01' black. After the paints are made, the proper enchantments are administered by a Skill 8 or higher cleric,

The paints are stored in SLOne jars that hold 3 applications.

Any lime a paint's properties are anivated, the co lor fades and loses i LS magic. In certain circumstances, the properties are not activated by the wearer (i,e. i[ a character runs through lire wearing red paint, the magic within [he paint will automatically activate and the character will be unable to sa ve the magic fOT defense agains t an olfenS! VI" spell encou 11 tered later, See be low for a more in-depth description of each color'S properties. }

VALUE: 3,000 gp per jar.

BZONTRA LASHER

of Verdaise to seek out and kin the deadly fire snake that lives in the bitter, ash-laden terrain. Carefully, the snake's poisonous fangs must be removed. Then, after plucking the hair from the rest of his beard, the dwarf must weave the deadly snake's fangs onto the lasher's rip. Only a beardless dwarf, carrying his own lasher, will be allowed to enter the Bzontras' camp.

The lasher works similarly to a grappling hook and curls snugly around a tree limb or other narrow perch within a 5-foot reach of the dwarve's outstretched arm. The fangs function as the hook, and the coarse texture of the whip aids in gripping.

The fangs are poisonous [or 8 hits - this includes each lime the fangs pierce an opponent or are used as a grappling hook. After 8 hits or uses, the venom is gone and the dwarf must replace the fangs with fresh ones. However, the curved teeth still serve as a powerful grappling hook long after the venom is exhausted.

VALUE: 1,000 gpo

• Functions as a grappling ho~k. T he chance of successfully grappling a target with this item is 75%.

• Causes 1-6 HTK of damage as a normal weapon.

• Ona 1~U of 18-20onlD20 the fangs unli strike the target. Victim. must save us. Poison or die im.mediately (no effect on undead). A successful save means that the victim's SM drops 3 points and he will have a -210 all "to hit" Tolls; this lasts f01 3-12 munds.

WAR PAlNfGOLORS AND THEIR EFFE.CI'S

RED

Offen protection from heat. Enables the wearer to save 'Is. Magical Fire or intense heat attacks at +3 to the die roll

The Bzonlra Lasher is a fierce whip woven from the coarse hairs of a dwarven heard. The lasher serves as an excellent weapon as well as the symbol of all the dwarven freedom fighters, the Bzontras,

Each warrior who deems himself worthy of becomin~ a Bzorura must undergo the wrenching n mal of pI ucking au l his entire beard, except for two strips of beard at the jo~ is, within a 48-hour period. Using these hairs, the dwarf must weave his own lasher.

N ex t, he must en ter the undead kingdom

for 6 rounds. Normal fire or heal have no effect upon the wearer.

GREEN

Allows, the wearer to move twice as fast and leap up to 30 feet horizontally and 15 feet vertically for 6 rounds .. Also

]8~--------------------------------------------------~

~< // ~/

doubles the number ol attacks allowed per round for 6 melee rounds. This paint works at. will for the wearer.

YELWW

Gives a +4 advantage to one save 'Is.

Poison against any inhaled substance. Effects last for 6 rounds.

BLUE,

Provides total immunity to a Fear or Confusion type of attack. Also adds +4 LO a save 'Is. Paral yzation. Effects last for 6 rounds.

VIOLET

Adds +2 to hit and damage on all attacks for 6 successive rounds. It begins to work when the wearer wills it. to.

ORANGE

For 6 successive rounds, all attacks against the wearer are at -2 to the dieroll and -2 to damage (I being the minimum HTK of damage taken). This paim begins working when willed to do so by the wearer.

BLACK

The first hit by the character-wearing this paint will do triple damage. It begins to work when the wearer wills it to.

MASK OF THE DEAD

• These trap the donor's li]« [otce beJore the donor enters the li]« beyolld.

• Each mask holds as many Skill levels as the donor possessed.

• Can be used to res lore us many Skill/cuds as are contained in the mask to its possesor

• (See the Ceremonies of Creation section fOT more details.)

A Mask of the Dead is a wax impression taken [rom the face of a person j list before death; the mask traps that person's life force. When placed u pan the face of a character who has lost a Skill level, that Skill level will be restored immediately.

The class of the character must be the same as that of the donor. If not, nothing will happen to the character, bu lone of the mask's Skill levels will be drained.

The alignment of a mask depends on that of the donor. Although the mask will still [unction regardless of the user's alignment, 4-16 HTK of damage wjJl be suffered (no save) by an Evil character using a Good mask or vice-versa. eutral persons may use any mask and characters of any alignment may use a Neutral mask.

Any lime that an Evil mask is used by a Good character, thai character must save us. his SM or two oj his Skit! levels will be absorbed into the mask. He will also sustain 1-4 HTK of damage [or every Skill leue! thai was originally in the mask.

RIGOLD-

BANE OF THE UNDEAD

Rigold is a magical rock that, under certain conditions, transforms 'itself into a lustrous blue gemstone. The gemstone protects its bearer from the Skilldraining effects of undead monsters. The rock is found only in the Verdaise caldera and is not distinguishable from any of the other particles o{ volcanic debris that Iiuer the area.

There are only LWO ways lO identify Rigold. The first was accidentally discovered by Tyzen Rigold,a dwarven miner. The miner feU upon a pile of mining debris, cutting his flesh deepl y. While tending La his cuts, be noticed that a piece of rock covered with his blood began to smoke as though acid had been poured. upon it. When the smoke lifted, the once worthless rock was transformed into a tiny blue gem.

No gem cutler could identify the stone, yer its worth was considered by dwarven jewelers to be eq uaJ to that of the finest diamond. Obsessed with the

points on the fourth successful hit (in addition to taking double damage).

Lost SM poin ts may be regained with ODe hour of rest for every SM point that is lost.

Though Rigold can still be found in Verdaise, the rituals for harmless discovery and activation were lost with the death of Azur, orne rings that were made by the dwarves are still in existence. It is widely known that the gem Rigold can be discovered by cutting oneself with the rock and allowing blood to cover it; anyon_edoing this will lose 1 HTK per rock tested (HTKs can be regained by one hou r of rest per HTK lost). It is rumored that Azur did write down the secret rituals onto two scrolls, although these serolls have remained lost since his death.

There is a 1 % chance of finding the gem Ri gold for every 40 igneous rocks tested by the above method. In other words, individual characters or the party must take a total of 40 HTK for each 1% chance of finding the gem.

VALUE: 5,000 gp ounce

gem, Rigold began to imagine that it was magical, although it gave off no magic dweomer, Rigold had the gem set into a ring of gold and paid the cleric Azur to pray for a divine revelation to discover the gem's magic.

After weeks 9£ prayer and offerings, the secret of the gemstone was revealed to AZUI, along with the rituals that could be used for discovery and activation of its powers. The gem was then named Rigold after irs discoverer. Thus began the end of the province that the dwarves called Woldham.

The gem's power grants its possessor immunity to the Skill-draimng effects of any undead. Instead of losing a Skill level, the holder takes double damage from every hit from an undead. 1£ more than three hits are taken in one day, the gem's owner additionally loses an addi tional I Dil SM poi n ts; he becomes UI1- conscious at zero SM points.

Regardless of how many times the gem changes hands during the day, only three hits by Skill-draining undead can he taken within a 24 hour period withau t the current possessor losing IDS SM

19

CEREMONIES of CREATION

GM NOTE: Along with their stastics, the beings mentioned here are described in full detail in the New Monsters section.

To create a War Mammoth, an E vi] magic user or deric ol a L least Skill 13 must capture a live mammoth with tusks that are at least eight feet long. The mammoth is then taken LO the place of sacrifice and chained so that it will not fall to the ground once it is dead.

The beast is then washed in unholy water. Afterwards, magical war paints are applied along the contours of its body, with the bright colors up high and darker colors near its feet (see Magic !terns). When this is complete, the beast is ready to be sacrificed.

The sacrifice is begun by starving the mammoth until it is nearly dead. The trunk must then be chopped 0[£ with one clean swing of an Evil two-handed sword Because of the beast's weakened condition, the severing of its trunk will cause the mammoth La die from shock.

Afterwards the mammoth is left until all of its skin has rotted away from the bones. It is then dressed in bright tapestries that are fitted with bells andcymbals. The tusks are inlaid with gold.

Once this is completed, the magic-user or cleric fits the mammoth with an artificialleather trunk that is studded with sapphires worth aLleast20,OOO gpo The creator then releases the mammoth from the chains while a tune is played on an ivory flute. If the mammoth does not fall to the ground, it indicates that Dierguth, the god of Evil, has accepted the sacrifice and rewarded the magic-user or cleric with a War Mammoth.

To create a Death Dragon

an Evil magic user or cleric must first acquire or subdue an Evil dragon. While the dragon is still living, its brain must be removed during the night of the new moon. Then the brain must be placed in a glistening, crystal container and set in the center of a reversed pentagram (tip downwards).

It is imperative that the dragon's brain be kept alive. To do this, the creator must "feed" the brain once a week with a paste made of the blood and crushed bone Irorn a dragon of the same color. The "feeding" is done by spreading 'h pound of this paste on the top of the brain, using a bony scale from the dead dragon.

The remainder of the dragon must be drained of blood and buried at the tip of the downward point on the pentagram. Each day for five days a mixture of unholy water, dragon blood, and lime must be poured on the downward point of the pentagram where the dragon is buried. On midnight of the fifth day, the dragon will rise from the ground and lake to the air.

20

The Death Dragon wit! then do the bidding of its creator [or as long as he or she (or one of the creator's servants) pours one pint of dragon blood on each point of the pentagram daily. ([ the magi -user or cleric ru ns ou t of blood from the ori gi nal dragon, blood may be substituted from a dragon of the same type and color. Also, if the weekly brain "feeding" is missed, the brain will starve and the Death Dragon will perish sirn ul taneousl y.

The brain, if attacked, is automatically hit unless a 1 is rolled, It can take 25 HTK of damage before il and the Death Dragon die. Only physical damage will harm the brain, [or it is totall y resistan t to spells and device attacks. The Death Dragon may not fly unless the brain has all 25 HTK.

To make a Mask of the Dead, the donor must be on the brink of death and a proper ritual must be performed to appease the donor's god for the loss of a soul.

The wax must be beeswax seemed with cinnamon. Before the mask is formed, the wax must be healed over a golden, coalfired brazier. In the brazier, placed upright in a circle, should be one horn studded with four 5,OOO-gp black sapphires for each Skill level of the donor.

The horus of unicorns must be used for Evil masks and those of gargoyles [or Good masks. The horns of basilisks must be used for Neutral Masks.

Once heated, the wax is placed over the face oC the expiring donor. As the donor's god is appeased, the life Corce flows into the mask, causing the red wax to change to shades of swirling gray. Within four rounds the donor will die.

For an Evil or Neutral donor, there is a 10% chance that the donor's god will find the ritual unacceptable even though the ritual was performed properly. For a Good donor there is a 10% chance of this occurring only if an Evil or Neutral mask is being created. If the correct hom is used for a Good donor, then the donor's god will always find the ritual acceptable. If the donor is Good or Neutral and the ritual is deemed unacceptable by the donor's god, the god will take the donor's soul after the failed attempt to make the mask. The donor cannot be raised if this occurs.

If the donor is Evil, instead of the life force being transfused into the mask, blood will spurt from the donor's hemorrhaging face. At the same time, the body temperature will sharply rise, causing the mask to meld with the face and any clothing worn lO burn and stick La the melted flesh. The donor now becomes a Flame Zombie (see Monster section), both fiery and cold condemned to wander in unlife.

RITUALS OF RIGOLD

If the R i tua I of Discovery is used, the .hance 01 finding Rigold is 2% per 6 turns searching (not cumulati vel. Once the Rigold gem is found, 110 other can be discovered until another ritual i performed. (For more information on Rigold, see Rigold-Bal1e oj the Undead in the New Magic secdon.)

AZUR'S SCROu..

To Discover Rigold,

kneel in prayer before the god' for tWO hours in a dark chamber with your eyes trained on a lamp of blue glass. After prayer, your eyes must be rubbed with the oil or pressed garlic that has been blessed by a Good cleric ol no less than Skill 13. A paste must then be prepared of Hushed blueberry, a slivered sapphire worth at least 2,000 gp. and haH a vial of holy water mixed with half a vial 01 flour.

Apply the paste as a shadow to the eyes. When a rock containing Rigold is sighted, the eyes will begin to well up

with tears. Rigold wil I show itselfas the volcanic rock becomes transparent, revealing a small blue gemstone in ide to the seeker. The gem will not have ,KIUally formed and must still be created [rom the volcanic rock using special means.

To change the rock to Rigold, blood from a fresh wound must bathe the entire rock. Only then will the stone turn to Rigold.

To Activate Rigold,

den uncia Lion and ridicule of Diergurh must be rigorously practiced for at least six hours non-stop, It is known that Diergurh senses this through the Rigold gem. His wrath heats rhe gem until its impurities are forced to the far edge of the stone.

Alter the defil ing of Dierguih is complere, the gem must be pia ed in a bowl containing not less than two pints of holy water. The holy water destroys the impurities and the gem is freed (or it possessor.

s

To Create a Blood Spirit,

the Evil magic user or cleric must take a teaspoonful of blood from a humanoid who has been dead for no more than one hour and put it in a vial made from the person's skin. While the blood is in the vial, the magic-user or cleric prays to his Evil god, who then transfers the spirit of the being Into the blood.

When the magic user or eieric desires, be pours the blood into a small ruby-studded golden chalice containing a drop of unhol y water. A blood-red humanoid-shaped mist rises from the chalice. The Blood Spirit then eeks out a living body to inhabit and attacks until it kills its victim or is ki lled. (See New Monsters for details.)

A lesser form of Blood Spirit i made when the blood in [be vial is poured into a topaz-studded golden chalice and is mixed with three drops of unholy water. This mixture 1S then poured into a bottle of paint that has been made [rom the root 01 the Black Cactus (see Flora and Fauna). After the parru dries, it releases the Blood Spirit whenever a humanoid body moves within Ii ve feel of it.

The most powerful Blood Spirit, is made with the blood of a sacrificial victim. When this blood is mixed in the ruby-studded chalice, it forms a Blood Spirit that may

attack the magic user or cleric. The magic

user or cleric must control the Spirit as a

magic user controls an elemental. This

Blood Spirit is never used as a paint.

~------------------------------------------------------------~21

•

NEW MONSTERS

CHILDREN OF PNOG WYN AC: 9, HTK: LDS

MV:9

AL: Lawful/Evil IT: low

AT: 1, DM: 1-4 THACO: 19

SPecial: Immune to Sleep, Charm, Hold and Cold-based spells.

Spells: Skill 3 (magic-user) - Gust of Wind {while in mist (arm. See below.)

The Children of Pnogwyn are the sons and daughters of (he adults of (he city of Pnogwyn who became infected with a strange childhood plague. At Lhis Lime there were no clerics in Pnogwyn that could cure the children, so the disease spread rapidly.

Many adults soon became ill as well.

Persons who were striken with the disease were then moved to a separate building, where they were handed food and other necessities through a window. Those children who were too young to understand felt afraid and abandoned as they [ell to the disease one by one.

hour LO a new location i [they desire. While in this form they can use the Gust of Wind spell (see standard rule book). Once the sun disappears behind the horizon, the mists begin to gather and the children once again stalk the lands. In their wake are the odor of rotting flesh and grey stains of ash upon the grasses.

The Children of Pnogwyn attack with their fists and nails, doing 1-4 HTK of damage. They attack withoutfearandfight until destroyed. Any time a character is hit by one, there is a 5% chance of becoming infected with a strange strain of the plague. (Once infected, an adventurer takes 1-4 HTK of damage each tum until healed with a Cure Disease spell.) For some reason, the plague continues LO thrive on the bodies of the children, even when they are in their non-corporeal state.

Children of Pnogwyn can be turned as ghouls only when they are in packs of twenty or less. Even then, they may never be controlled, A successful hi t wi th one vial of holy water will kill one of them immediately. A Cure Disease spell will also work, but on one at a time.

22

As a last desperate measure, several townsfolk travelled as far as Rushbury Mound and Oribrand in search of a cleri to pu l an end LO their plight. A sufficien tly skilled cleric was eventually found in Duurgau, but by the time the cleric was able to travel La Pnogwyn, all of the town's children perished from the disease.

In sorrow, the townpeople decided that it was best to cremate the bodies of their dead.

Although the plague was stopped, the distraught families eventually abandoned the town, leaving their homes and memories behind them.

Now, every year on the eve of that funeral pyre, hundreds of children emerge from a black mist rising from the damp ground. For twenty-six days (the amount of time it took before the lastcry fell silent) the children terrorize the countryside in search of those who left them to die. Wandering in bands of 10-100 children, Lhey attempt to kill anyone who gets in their way.

At dawn every day, the children change into the form of a black mist and sink back into the ground. As a mist, they cannot be harmed. They may move one mile every

HOODOO MEN AC: 8, HTK: 4D8 MV: 12"

a: Neutral

IT: Low

AT: 1, DM: by weapon (see below) THACO: 15

Special: see below

Found mainly in badlands, Hoodoo Men are. the skeletons of miners who died defending their claims or while prospecting. They get their name because many of them are found near earth chimneys or rimilar pillars such as volcanic dikes and plugs that have been uncovered by erosion. Hoodoo Men continue to protect their claims, even in death, and some still prospect for minerals.

Although they are skeletons, Hoodoo men have minds of their OW11 and do not need to be controlled in order to animate. Their brains are still active, but they are nOL very intelligent.

Hoodoo Men attack by using a variety of weapons, induding these favorites: pick axes, causing 1-6 HTK of damage (but always have the last initiative in combat); hammers, causing 2-5 HTK of damage; shovels, causing 1-4 HTK of damage; and large rocks, causing 2-8 HTK of damage.

These skeletons are vcry agile and therefore have some of the abilities of a Skill 5 thief (Hide in Shadows: 31 %; Climb Walls: 90%; Move Silently: 40%). Invisible characters can be sensed by Hoodoo Men and will always be attacked first (the Hoodoo Men will imagine them to be claim jumpers).

Edged weapons do ~ damage against Hoodoo Men while holy water does 2-8 HTK of damage. They may only be hit by silver or magic weapons, with silver weapons doing double damage. Clerics can turn Hoodoo Men as ghasts unless the Hoodoo Men are not in their natural mining habitat. In this case, they are treated as normal skeletons.

OFFSPRING OF NIGHTBA Y AC: 6, HTK: lD8+2

MV:9"

AL: Lawful/Evil IT: Very

AT: 2, DM: 1-12 THACO: 18

Special: Sleep, Charm, Hold and other mind-affecting spells have no effect,

The Offspring of N ightbay are cunning undead children, usually between the ages of six and fifteen, who are especially fa vored by the Lichlords, They al wa ys participate in Nightbay's communion so that they may maintain the appearance of human children.

In this form, they serve as spies for the Lichlords, When living beings are spotted, the children seek them out, pretending to have escaped the clutches of Nightbay. Waiting for their victims to sleep (or at the first sign of vulnerability), the children attack to kill.

The children attack bare-handed with a STof 18(00), causing 1-12 HTK of damage.

As they draw strength from within, their eyes glow red and the flesh that was bestowed upon them in Nightbay's communion begins to scintillate with an irridescent gleam while moans escape through the child's pores. These Evil offspring of Nightbay do IDlO damage per hit with their hands.

The children can be turned as ghasts.

Holy water does 2-8 HTK of damage but when it burns the artificial flesh, noxious fumes are produced that nauseate anyone within a 10-foot radius of the child. A roll VS. SM at three less than character's SM or under negates the effect, Otherwise, the nausea lasts 2D4 rounds, during which time no action may be taken. Evil cannot be detected from the children.

CECROPS

AC: Special, HTK: 6D8 MV:9"/18"

AL: Lawful/Evil IT: Average

AT: I, DM: Weapon or mouth (2-16); Blood spit (5-20)

THACO: 13

Cecrops are an Evil humanoid race, halfman and half-dragon, who were named after their frightening resemblance to the mythological Blood Dragons of old called Saekroups,

These strange creatures have the head and wings of an immature red dragon but the rest of their bodies are humanoid.

Cecrops prefer an extremely dry climate and are chiefly found in desert regions. Similar to the red dragon, they are hotblooded and not adversely affected by heat. They live in sand huts, hidden within the rolling waves of the bleak desert dunes.

Since most of the desert animals are small and the Cecrops are large (up to 9 feet tan), they have trouble getting enough fresh meal. This lack of food has kept the desert tribes small and forced their brethren to live in less remote areas where trade and food are more plentiful. The favorite food of all Cecrops is dwarf flesh.

Cecrops use a variety of large weapons.

Their favorite weapon is a two-handed sword, which they wield one-handed. They will only attack with their mouths (2-16 HTK of damage) if their opponent is not wearing metal or studded armor. While in the air, Cecrops always attack with their jaws, regardless of an opponent's armor.

Cecrops sometimes wear helms or breast plates (Ae 6); their leaders may even have specially fitted plate mail over their wings. Armored Cecrops cannot fly. Cecrops have tough skin that is equal [Q an AC 7_

Once each day in place of a regular attack, Cecrops can cause themselves to hemorrhage internally and spit extremely hot blood at a range of 15 feet. The heat damage from the blood is 5-20 HTK; a save vs. Breath Weapon halves the damage. the Cecrops' blood coagulates rapidly, so they take no damage from this form of attack. Also, all hits scored against them are -I to

damage because of their rapid bloodcoagulation (so damage of 0 HTK is possible).

Any fire attacks against Cecrops do only half the appropriate damage.

FEAR SPIDER

AC: 8, HTK: None MV: 12"

AL: Neutral

IT: Low

AT: 1, DM: 1-4 + poison THACO: Automatic Special: see below

The Fear Spider is a dark orange spider about the size of a discus. Its habitat is usually a rocky desert, where it normally feeds on snakes, birds, and small mammals. It is also known to attack larger creatures, including humanoids.

The spiders live in colonies, building gigantic webs that protect their lairs. They drag their victims into their webs for food. The webs have hundreds of large, sack-like objects all about them. These sacks look like eggcases. Instead, they contain saliva that is very acidic and volatile. As soon as the sack is touched with a jab with a weapon, it will burst apart causing 2-8 HTKof damage to any intruders in a ten-foot radius.

The webs bum easily but any fire will cause the sacks to explode. sending acid raining in a fifteen-foot radius of the web, ca using 1-6 HTK of damage to all creatures in the vicinity.

Rarely do their lairs contain treasure unless one of their victims carried valuable personal items. Fear Spiders and their acid sacks are considered by some to be valuab Ie; the sack's acid and the spider' paralytic abiliLy are useful defensive safeguards. If not paralyzed, characters can carry the spiders in satchels. The acid sacks can be transported using some form of magic such as Telekenesis, Levitation, etc.

The Fear Spider has a strong putrid smell similar to a ghast that paralyzes anyone who lails to save vs. Paralyzation. The odor is toO strong for any safeguards LO be effective and th paralyzation lasts for one turn.

Only after a character is paralyzed will the spider begin to climb its prey's body, slowly moving towards the head. As it climbs, it imprisons the character in a sticky web. It takes two rounds to reach the head of a shire-folk, dwarf, or gnome and three rounds to reach the head of a human, elf or half-elf if it is not removed from the character, Once it reaches the head of a victim and it still has not been removed it will automatically bite, doing 1-4 HTK of damage. If no action is taken, the victim will die in six turns.

Persons trying to brush a Fear Spider off a paralyzed friend will find it a difficult task. The web i.s very sticky and holds the spider securely. The spider will perish from any successful hit. It will burst, inflicting 2-8 HTK of damage to its webbed victim from the acid in its abdomen.

23

WAR MAMMOTH

dC: -2 with armor, 0 without armor HTK: 1408

MV: 9"/12" (running speed) AL: Evil

IT: Low

AT: I, DM: 2-12 (tusks), 2-12 (feet); feel do double damage to opponent not standing upright.

THACO:1O

Special: Magic resistance 50%; unmune to Sleep, Charm, Hold, and cold-based spells.

Although these fearsome mammoths appear LO be nearly invincible, they do have several weaknesses. Their tusks are quite sensitive. Any attack against the tusks should be treated as an attack against Armor Class -4 but all successful hits to the tusks do double damage. If one of the mammoth's front legs is roped, there is a 50% chance that the mammoth will fall and rake 2-8 HTK of damage.

The mighty War Mammoth is created by an Evil cleric or magic-user of at least Skill 13 in a special ritual to the Evil god Dierguth. The sacrifice is a favorite of the god,

24

who is very fond of this creature and gran [5 it special abilities.

The War Mammoth is usually between twelve feet and fourteen feet tall. Its tusks can be up to nine feet long and weigh 10020 pounds (val ued at 10 gold pieces per pound).

In battle, it is ometimes armored with iron plates about the head, leather skirts about its flanks, and a howdah (wooden fort) fastened to its back. In the howdah are archers, a mahou t (trainer), and sometimes a ruler or a general.

If War Paint is used all a mammoth, it is usually in bright colors that begin at the top of the body, gradually changing to darker hues at the feet.

When the War Mammoth attacks with its tusks, any roll of 19 or better on 1020 means that the hit impales its opponent, causing double damage. In the following round, the mammoth wiU throw the character off its tusks for an additional 4-24 HTK of damage. If the opponent is not standing up and the mammoth attacks with a stomp, a successful hit will also cause double (4-24) damage.

War Mammoths are always controlled by

their creators - an Evil cleric or magicuser. However, their mahouts may also control a mammoth by carrying an ivory wand that has been washed in the beast's sacrilical blood. When the mahout is killed, the creature has no direction and will attempt to kill whatever or whoever is nearest until another mahout. cleric or magic-user gains control or until ihe mammoth is killed.

The beasts are fairly slow moving and do not normally trot or run. However, a War Mammoth will run when its trainer is killed. They can also move through molten lava if they are painted with magical War Paints (see Magic Items).

When live mammoths or elephants encounter the War Mammoth.they will start to mourn the dead animal by making loud trumpeting moans. If they are being led by other humanoids, the living beasts will not obey any commands of their mahouts until the War Mammoth disappears from sight.

War Mammoths are as difficult to tum as ghosts and. when turned, they will not move away [rom the cleric. Instead,they will JUSt stop and lie down.

DEATH DRAGON AC: -2, HTK: 22D8 uv. 12"/24"

AL: Neutral

IT: Non-

AT: Varies

DM: (claws) 1-12 +2, (horns) 4-24, (bite) 4-32, (wings) 6-60

THACO.:8

Special: Need +2 or better weapon to hit; magic resistance 20%.

The Death Dragon is a powerful skeletal dragon created by a magic user or cleric through a special ritual. Its length is 60 feel from head to tail and it has a wing span of 70 feet. Instead of membrane wings, it has wings made of ice, from one to one-half inches thick.

As long as the creator performs the required rituals, the dragon can move or fly ceaselessly; its creator need not concentrate to control it. However, if the daily rituals are not performed the Death Dragon will perish.

A Death Dragon never needs (0 sleep or eat, but it must satisfy a hunger to kill.for the act of killing is Its only link to earlier life. As payment for not destroying villages and towns, the Death Dragon demands that victims be brought to him. Although the dragon bas no use for treasure, many villagers place monetary offerings within or nearby its lair in hopes of appeasing the dragon.

Depending on where a battle takes place, the Death Dragon will use different modes of attack. When both combatants are in the air, the Death Dragon will use its horns to gore its opponent for 4D6 HTK of damage. When both opponents are on the ground. the Death Dragon will use its claws and will either bite or use its horns for three attacks each round. The claws do IDl2 HTK of damage each, its bite does 4D8 HTK of damage. and its horns do 2D12 HTK of damage.

When the Death Dragon is fighting multi pie Ioes on the ground, its favorite tactic is to try to grab an opponent with its claws and fly to a safe spot to finish the kill. "To hit" rolls of 18-20 on ID20 means that the chosen character must save vs, his ST or become caught in the dragon's grasp. II the character ca uses at least 30 HTK of damage while the dragon is carrying him in the air, it will choose to release the character. The appropriate falling damage (lD6 HTK x 10') is applied.

Three rimes a day while in the air the dragon may choose to flap its wings with such great force that they end down huge, razor-sharp shards of ice that cause 6-60 HTK of damage to anyone within an area twenty feet in diameter from the area directIybelow the Death Dragon. A save vs. Paralyzation is allowed and, if the save is successful, only hall damage is taken. After each. time that it shakes the ice from its

wings, the Death Dragon mustland within one round and remain on the ground for ten rounds because its wings are too thin too fly. If it tries to fly at this time it will fan to the ground and sustain I D6 HTK of falling damage per 10 feel fallen.

Only +2 or better magic weapons will affect a Death Dragon and edged weapons do half damage.

All Dying creatures that see a Death Dragon must save vs. Spells at -2 or Oy away in fear for 2D4 rounds. Other Jive dragons seeing this monster save at -4.

If the Death Dragon takes more than 25 HTK of heal damage while in the air, its wings will begin LO melt and it will be forced to land. More than 40 HTK of heat damage will send it plummeting to the ground, suffering additional falling damage. In both ca es of heal damage, the Death Dragon must spend I D20 rounds on the ground before Dying again.

No one except a magic-user or cleric can ride or control the Death Dragon. Clerics can turn the Death Dragon as a vampire.

Once the dragon brain used in the conju.ration ritual is destroyed, the Death Dragon will immediately perish and its bones will turn to dust.

25

ROMPO

AC: 5, HTK: 2DS MV: 24"

AL: Neutral IT:Low

AT: 1, DM: 2-8 THACO: 16

The Rompo is a large rodent that resembles a capybara without webbed feet. The Rompo stands about five to six feet tall. It moves by hopping like a rabbit, leaping as far as six feet at a time. When attacking or fleeing, its hops wiIJ be much shorter, bUL it will move at twice its normal speed.

The Rompo is deadly when hungry. It feeds on dead, rotting flesh. If there is none, will not hesitate to kill its own fresh meat, The Rompo attacks with large jaws, causing 2-8 HTK of damage.

If captured, Rompos can be trained as mounts (in fact, the dwarven Bzontras ride trained Rompos almost exclusively). Training takes about four days. Riders can weigh no more chan 180 pounds.

Rompos travel in small herds of up to a dozen. Any Lime that a herd is sighted. dead flesh will not be far away.

EC TOPLA SMlCS AC: Q, HTK; 10DS MV: 18" (float) AL: Lawful/Good IT: High

AT; 1, DM: 1-10 THACO:H

These are the spirits of dead paladins, They are usually found in graveyards, Good chapels. and crypts. They can heal wounds of any character that they do not detect as Evil (1-4 HTK, twice per day).

Ectoplasmics may give information and/or directions and will sometimes appear if a Good character is being overcome by Evil (30% chance). If an Ectoplasmic appears during a baule with the undead, the Evil entities will always stop [heir attack on the characters and turn LO attack the Ectoplasmics.

Evil clerics may tum Ectoplasrnics with the same roll that turns a spectre, but they cannot control them.

Ectoplasmics are immune to Sleep, Charm, Hold, and cold-based spells. Unboly water has no effect on Ectoplasmics.

26

MOONSCOURGE AC: 2, HTK: SDS MV: 12"

AL: ChaoticlNeutral IT: High

AT: 1, DM: 1- IO or by weapon THACO:12

Special; Skull crush (see below); ability to [urn characters in to Moonscourges, engage in lunatic frenzy, and Turn Invisible during the day. Skill 9 Thief abilities (Pick Pockets 70%, Open Locks 62%, Find/Remove Traps 60%, Move ilemly 70%, Hide in Shadows 56%, Hear Noise 30%, Climb Walls 98%, Read Languages 45%).

Moonscourges are the spirits of lunatic murderers and fiends who, in their madness, have defied the gods of death. Unwilling to control them, the gods cast them back upon the land to continue their chaotic sprees of murder.

AMoonscourge frequently returns to the area where it committed crimes during life - usual! y a large ci ty with many dark narrow streets and seedy districts. As the town crier tells of hideous murders. authorities are baffled by the accounts of witnesses who clearly describe the same villains who were publicly executed only weeks before.

By the light of day, this creature is rarely seen, for as the moon fades in the morning sun, so does the figure of the Moonscourge. In daylight it turns invisible and has no strength or form. While invisible, the Moonscourge ceaselessly searches for new victims for its moonlight slayings, Usually its victims are wealthy people. However, Moonscourges will some Limes murder vagrants and animals just to satisfy their hungers to kill.

Under the lighL of the moon, the Moonscourge will alta k its intend d victim with either weapons or its bare hands. When it attacks with bare hands, it attempts to crush the victim" skull. (If the victim i wearing a helmet, the Moonscourge will try to tear it off. A successful "to hu" roll will accomplish this.) In the next round. rhe Moonscourge must make another su -

ess£ul "to hit" roll in order to grab the victim in a headlock, its bony palms positioned to crush the skull. To break this headlock the victim must break loose -

FLAME ZOMBIE

AC: 2, HTK: The same as in Iife. MV: 12"

AL: Evil

IT: same as in life.

A T: Variable, DM: By weapon or both hands (1-10 + unadjusted AC) THACO: The same as in life

A Flame Zombie is the result of a failed performance of the ri tual to make a Mask of the Dead (see Ceremonies of Crealion) from an Evil donor. The life-force of the donor is caught in a battle between the gods. The displeased god of Evil wants to punish the donor by forcing the soul into the fires of hell but the gods of death refuse admission because of the way the person died.

Flames cover the outer portion of the body. but below the first few layers of skin, the monster is cold as ice .. The intensity of the flames cover the outer layer of flesh in third degree bums. Pieces of charred clothing or armor may be fused to the body and the Zombie's face will have a waxy look as the mask that killed the donor will have melded with the skin.

The Flame Zombie attacks by the same methods it used as a living being. If the zombie was a magic-user, it will need books to cast spells (the books will not bum). If it was a priest, no spells will be given to it by any god.

While it may attack with a weapon, it can also attack with its bare hands. These attacks do 1-10 HTK of hear damage plus the unadjusted Armor Class of [he defender. For example, plate mail adds two HTK; no-armor adds ten HTK. Magical armor is treated as whatever type of armor it is without the bonuses.

No fire or cold-based attacks will harm the Flame Zombie. Neither normal nor magical water will put out its flames. However, holy water causes 2-8 HTK of damage. If three or more successful attacks are made with holy water in the same round, the names will be doused for one round at w hich time the Flame Zombie will be unable to attack with its hands. Sleep and Charm spells have no effect, but.other mind-affecting spells such as Hold Monster will work.

Clerics may turn the Flame Zombie with the same roll that will tum a ghost.

(here is a basecha nee Q( 30% iha t l he vi rt i 111 will be successfu I, plus or minus 10% for each point of ST above or below the l\IlonnsLOurge·s. I r the victim does not break [ret' he wi 11 lake 1 D 10 HTK (1 r damage.

A Moonscourge is extremely strong and will always have a ST of at least 16. It is a [so very agile and will have a minimum DX of 15. The Moonseourge has thievi ng ahili Lies of a Skill 9 thief.

Any character taking more than 70% of their total HTK [rom a Moonscourge will turn into a homicidal maniac within 1·4 days with no save allowed. A Cure Disease spell will negate the insanity until the next attack. On nights with a full moon, a lunatic frenzy sometimes besets the Moonscourge, who may go on murder sprees lasting the entire night. While in this frenzy, the Moonscourge is +2 "to hit" and damage and gains a Magic Resistance of 25%. At this lime, the Moonscourge cannot be turned or controlled and can only be hit with a + I or better magic weapon that has been blessed, wielded by a Good cleric or paladin, or dipped in holy water,

Moonscourges are sometimes known to band together when [he moon is full. In these hordes, they descend upon unsuspecting vii [ages and utter! y destroy them, leaving no survivors. A favorite lactic of highSki It Evil clerics and magic-users is to gain COIl trol of a number of Moonscourges, bind them, and release them on their personal enemies during a full moon.

The Moonscourge usually Stays in a room ala seedy inn but sometimes the more materialistic ones have their own homes, hideou IS, or even strongholds. These select few have a lust for wealth and the liner things in undeath.

Moonscourgesare turned as ghosts. Holy water does 2-8 HTKs of damage. They are immune to SLeep, Charm, Hold and Coldbased spells and all mind-aHecting spells.

.4.SHSTEED

AC: -2. HTK: 108 MV:24"

AL: Neutral

IT: None

AT: I, DM: 4-24 THACO.' 16

An Ash Steed is a magical horse that is created by releasing a gas from steam vents that hiss around the mouth of an active volcano. The creating magic-user can accomplish this by locating a steam vent and covering the vent for at least eight rounds with any object weighing at least 30 pounds. When the weight is released, the compressed gas begins to swir I, kicking up the pumice and ash into a dizzying vortex. The spinning winds suck in more ash from the surrounding area until a great churningdoud Iorms into a horse. (Up LO four horses can be created lrom one steam vent, each requiring a minimum of eight rounds of compressed gas .. )

As the ash douds are growing, a Stone Shape spell must be cast upon the winds. After three rounds, a solid black steed of

volcanic ash will form from the grayness, and the winds w ill fa I ter and die. The steed will bear whatever its creator commands. However, if the creator has not commanded the steed LO carry someone or something, it will resist attempts to be mounted.

The Ash Steed attacks by rearing up OIl its hind legs, then stomping its opponents with its front hooves. Therefore, when the Ash Steed attacks, the only weapons that the rider may use are pole weapons such as spears or staffs. The rider may also attack magically.

Any solid hit will immediately turn the steed back in to vol canic ash. Any rider will take 1-6 HTK of falling damage unless he successfully rolls vs. his SM.

The Ash Steed is immune to all Sleep, Charm, Hold, and mind-affecting spells.Because it is magical, the steed has no lair nor treasure.

IONIC DISCARNA TE (The "Zapper") AC: I, HTK: 5D8

MV: 12"/18"

AL: Chaotic/Evil IT: Average

AT: 2, DM: lOB THACO: 15

SPecial: Can only be hit by +2 or better magica I weapons. With an y successful hit the attacker must save vs. Rod or sustain 1-4 HTK of electrical cia mage; this does not apply if the attack was made from the air.

The Ionic Discarnate is a spirit formed by the combination of at least six Evil spiri LS. The spiri ts are often of low-Skill adventurers or non-player characters who were not very powerful during their lives. Their spirits, therefore, have no powers and will always remain entombed in their graves until thegrave is opened.

When the grave is opened, the spirit walks the earth with i n ten feet of j ts resting place. Here it waits and can only be seen when there is some kind of electrical discharge, such as a Lightning Bolt. During this dis charge, the sp i ri t s tr etch es itself towards the source of electricity .. A strong (6D6 HTK) electrical discharge that strikes within thirty feet of the spirit will pull it ill to the electrica I field. J[ five or more other spirits are also entrapped by {he electrical discharge, an Ionic Discarnate is formed.

The Ionic Discarnate appears as a large spirit that reaches about fifteen feet in height. The spirit twists and contorts as it moves, resembling a deformed man. Around it is an electrical field, which not only protects i t but acts as its attack abil ity,

II attacks twice each round with its hands, automatically doing IDlO HTK of damage. A save vs, Rod negates the attack, but the roll must be made twice - anne {or each of the deformed creature's hands. Characters with metal armor roll. at +2.

Any area hit by the spirit will be blackened by the electrical power. If an Evil character's HTK are reduced to !i ol its total, the GM should tell the player that he

feels his body being stretched and pulled as his spirit tries to merge with the electrical energy.

Ionic Discamates are immune to Sleep, Charm, Hold, and Cold-based Spells. Electrical attacks have no effect. Holy water does [·8 HTK of damage. The Discarna te is turned with the same roll as a ghost. A failed attempt to turn an Ionic Discarnate by a cleric with a metal holy symbol will cause the electrical energy to arc towards the holy symbol, causing 1-8 HTK of damage [0 the cleric and causing the cleric to drop the holy symbol.

BLOOD SPIRITS AC.'4, 2. 0 HTK:5D8 MV:24"

AL: NeutrallEvil IT: Variable

AT: 1, DM: (1-6), (1-8), (1-10) THACO: [5

Special: Magic Resistance 30% within 100 feet of the place where they were created; immune to Cold, Sleep, Charm, Hold and Paralyzation-type attacks; Detect Invisibility.

Blood Spirits are special undead created by Evil magic-users or clerics during a secret ritual (see Ceremonies of Creation).

The Blood Spirit may be Iou nd as a stick figure, drawn with red paint upon walls, rocks, or any flat surface. When any living humanoid waJ ks wi thin fi ve feet of i t, a red mist rises [rom the painting. Blood Spirits may also be created in the fonn of a mist thai immediately attacks its chosen victim.

The Blood SpiriL attacks with one hand and the damage it does causes an infusion of .its blood in to the body it attacks .. Once a victim takes 25 HTK of damage or is killed, the victim' s body is taken over by the Blood Spirit. The victim's original spirit leaves the body and may return only if an Exorcism spell is cast, in which case the Blood Spirit is immediately killed. Once this ha ppens.the victim's spirit can reclaim the body; he will be the same as he was before the Blood Spirit's possession.

Blood Spirits are only affected by + I or better magic weapons. They are so cold that if hit by a non-magical metal weapon the cold is transferred through the weapon, doing 1-4 HTK of damage to the wielder and causing the weapon to break. In the same way,. if the spirit is hit by exposed flesh, the attacker takes 1-6 HTK of darn age from the cold.

A Blood Sp iri t may be turned as a wigh t.

I

A 27

The LAND of VERDAISE

Divided by rivers of boiling lava and merci I essl y b lasted by freezing w inds, Verdaise was transformed into a kingdom of extremes after the Great Catastrophe.

Near the lava flows, the land resembles a sweltering desert. Paradoxically, only hundreds of feet away, icy winds and chilling temperatures turn the desert into a frozen wasteland.

Dark clouds of ash swirl about in the su lien sky and prevent the sun from warming the land. Verdaise remains bathed in a perpetual violet twilight, keeping temperatures at a steady 35 degrees Fahrenheit. Although precipitation is rare, occurring only in sudden and brief downpours of driving sleet, its onset momentarily clears the air of volcanic debris.

The land is pitted and covered by a footthick layer of fine ash. A sea of bones juts OUL of the soh ground. Some of the bones are covered with a heavy layer of black din, whife others are while and nobby like pebbles scattered across a rocky beach. Protruding Irom the bony terrain are graygreen basalt pillars and curved sweeping ridges of cooled magma. Deep fissures and splintered ravines extend across the dark ash like broken skeletal fingers.

In the center of the land is an immense skull-shaped granite standing stone (batholith) that impales the low-hanging grey clouds- Diverted streams of lava from the land's two active volcanoes empty into a deep gorge that surrounds the batholith, forming a teamy moat, A small stream of lava flows all of the moat underground LO keep it [rom overflowing. Other rivers of la va 51 ice across Verdaise and create bubbling lakes of (ire on the land's ea t and west borders.

Directly north of the batholith stands an obsidian tower. Atop the tower is a crownshaped baulemen t hat extends up through the dusty douds of ash.

East of the batholith is a dormant volcano that overlooks a well-tended garden. North of the volcano lie the high glistening walls o[ a prison yard.

Hidden beneath basalt pillars, which are also called hoodoos, in the northwest corner are the underground Ioundaries. There are dwarven slaves that are drugged and Iorced to make weapons for the undead troops here.

On the far northern border of the caldera is the main gate into Verdaise, JUSL inside of this gate lies the town of Ashlaeden, which is located in a deep ravine formed by two hardened lava flows. Beings of questionable repute, such as the dwarfengs, trade within this town, The dwarEengs are an unethical group of dwarves who will even sell members of their own race into slavery.

The only other way into Verdaise is a relatively unknown and dangerous path

28

thai CUlS through a long, deep crack in the southern rim of the caldera and winds alongside a rushing river of lava. This is the entrance used by the dwarven freedom fighters c-alled Bzontras and a few greedy, foolhardy thieves and miners.

The gap in the caldera's southern rim opens on to the bleak and icy sou them wastelands. 'This area is covered by undulating hillocks and hollows of cooled lava. Intersp T ed between the hillocks are teepsided domes of basaltic lava. These domes have glassy spines and plates protruding down the backsides. There are small piles of stone rubble at the base of these domes.

Beneath the hillocks oE hardened Java is an intricate underground labyrinth of arched lava tubes (tunnels) that extend from the lava lake in the east to the rumbling volcano in the west. The Bzontra dwarves are using these tunnels as their hideout.

To further complicate the scouting efforts of the undead, huge ash storms swirl across the southwest and can last from hour to days. These are caused by powerful winds that tumble over the high cliffs at the opposite end of the caldera and pick up speed as they whip across the land. When the icy torrents of air crash into the southwest cliffs, the ash dune are blown into billowing cyclones of cold.

Because of the extremes of cold and heat in Verdaise, only the hardiest plants and animals can survive here. Most of these live within the thin band of moderate temperarures that surrounds (but is not LOO near) the bodies of lava.

VERDAISE IN DETAIL

A Gamernaster may use this section to conduct ongoing excursions into tbe land.

RANDOM EVENTS IN VERDAISE

While the party is traveling thorough the land, roll three times a day for a random even t to occur. Consul t the Random Events Chart under the region that the party is currently traveling through.

THE REGIONS OF VERDAISE

The rnap ol Verdaise is divided into three geographical regions. The features that are found in more than one region are described first. Next, unique characteristics of each region are given.

REGIONAL FEATURES

The following are found in more than one of the three regions of Verdaise: additional details can be found in their appropriate regions.

BASALT PILLARS (HOODOOS)

These are found in all three Regions. ee the individual listing under REGION III lor the Underground Foundary.

These high pillars, which are also called hoodoos, tower over the entire landscape, jutting 80 feet or more iruo the sky. Many of the pillars are hollow; these can serve as safe (although not very comfortable) shellers. Because they are ridged with layers ol pumice and granite, the pillars can easily be scaled.

Following a heavy sleet, Bzontras often collect the snows that cling to the sides of the pillars for fresh water,

......

Whenever a character enters a hoodoo there is a 5% chance that the hollow basalt pillars run deep into the ground, opening into small underground cavern wherelD4 Hoodoo Men may be encountered.

(1-4) Hoodoo Men

AC: 4, HTK: 4D8 MV: 12"

AL: Neutral TT:Low

AT: I, DM: 1-4 (shovels), 1-12 (pick axes)

THACQ: 15

Weapons: Shovels, pick axes (these always go last in a round).

Special: These skeletal miners can Detect Invisibil ity. I hey can only be hi t by silver or magic weapons; edged weapons do half damage. (For further information on Hoodoo Men. see New Monsters.i

BONE BRIDGES

These can be found in REGION I and REGION HI. See individual Region listing for details.

ACTIVE VOLCANOES

There are LwO active volcanoes in Verdaise, The one in REGION I is called Fire Mound and the one in REGION In is called Prison Peak. See individual Regions'Tistings,

LAVA LAKES

See individual Region listings in REGION I and REGION II.

LA VA TUNNELS (OT LA VA TUBES) This network of tunnels spans over REGION I and REGION II. See individual Regions.

COMMERCE

N OL long after the Lichlords LOok over Verdaise, they began to set up trade systems with those in the area who were willing and unscrupulous enough LO deal with them. Harsh treatment of slaves and

a n e o

... ...,a.. ..... -

- _-

o

, .

--

~... ... ..".,,_____

Irequent sacrifices soon reduced the number of dwarven captives [0 a handful,

ighthay traded dwarven swords and the use of undead mercenaries in exchange (or humans. elves. and dwarves for both sacrifices and strong healthy slaves.

The swords, forged by brainwashed dwarven cap Lives. were not as good as those made before the Great Catastrophe. However, they were quite sufficient for the needs of t.h e traders.

...

The smugglers trade for swords hut sometimes zombies and "Skeleton warriors are included in the deal. The warriors are under orders of Nigbtbay to obey the commands of their owners.

For the offer of fine ivory. the Lichlords sometimes lend the services of intelligent undead for a limited period of time. The Lichlords do not approve of their undead being used for menial tasks or as slaves or mercenaries; they do not take kindJy to

wasting intelligent undead in such a way. Instead. it is expected that the smugglers use ightbay's gift LO achieve even greater success during future raids,

The most favored trading partners of the Lichlords are the Cecrops (see New Monsters) who dwelJ in Crimspade Desert. The Cecrops are skilled hunters of the mammoth herds in the Evernight Forest. Here they either kill mammoths for ivory or capLure them for the Lich lords in creating war

29

mammoths. In return for ivory and marnmoths, the Cecrops get fresh dwarven flesh (dwarven slaves that are of no further use LO the Lichlords because they have become crippled or incapacitated).

Most trade with the Cecrops is done by air; long journeys through the desert could kill or dehydrate the dwarves (the Cecrops want them alive and juicy). Consequently, the dwarves arc aged and Ilown by Death Dragons iruo rh desert.

Ivory deliveries arc also made by air.

Cecrops [Iy the ivory to a small desert valley outside the northeast edge of Verdaise, Here the Cecrops have a small encampment at the gates LO the caldera. Because they are aha id to en ter Verda ise, they ha ve enli Led the aid of Morton Festrel l to act as their go-between. (For information on Morton, read Ashlaeden, Building #4, The ivory Trader.)

All commerce flows through heavily guarded gates into Verdaise. Beyond the gates the traffic moves into Ashlaeden, a bustling trade center consisting of many tents and shanties. No trade may pass into Verdaise by air. Any flying creature will be auacked immediately by Death Dragons.

Live mammoths are never brought over the desert to Verdaise, Instead, one of ihe Lichlord Council travels to 'vemighl Fore t to perform the rituals (See Ceremonies Of Creation). (NighLbay is lorbidden by Dierguth LO leave the boundaries of his kingdom.)

Most trade with other humanoids originates in Oribrand and is taken up the Ash River by barge [0 Roguestead, In Oribrand and Roguestead, a grou p of dwarven thieves and smugglers sells members of their own race to other humanoids. Considered iraitors by the rest ol their race, these dwarven marketeers-s-called Dwarfengs-boast allegiance to no race or kingship.

Remaining slaves are often sold to the Dwarfeng Cruenk (see Special Non-Player Characters). He is known for his dealings with the undead in Ashlaeden. He is not above robbing graves or hiring grave robbers to procure carcasses to fill the undead legions.

To reach Verdaise {rom Roguestead, the contraband is taken through the Dvegar Moun tains all the wa y around the west side of the caldera lO the gate on the northeast Till mountain trail was made by the dwarves before the Great Catastrophe and it remains smooth and level. Travel via this trail takes only about half the time that travelling though the little-known gap in the southern caldera rim does.

Even with this made-to-order trade route, there are many dangers. Dwarves from Duurgau constantly attempt [Q disrupt barge traffic on the Ash River and Bzontras often ambush the Verdaise Trail. Also, many bands of thieves operate along the river with small armies of their own. All this makes trade with the Lichlords extremely perilous.

The return route from Verdaise is not considered as dangerous because many of [he smugglers return with undead mer enaries under their control.

30

RELIGION

D ierguth, the god of Evil undead, i the POW!:'f behind Nightbay and the land of Verdaise. He demands exacting prayers and ritual for which Nightbay is solely responsible. These services must be performed daily in order for [he Lichlords lO retain their special powers.

The unholy symbol of tho e who \'1101"-

hip Dierguth is an ivory vulture holding the skull of a human. Consequently, ivory artifacts, decorations, and monuments are highly visible throughout Verdaise. Almost all ceremonies use ivory or inlaid ivory objects, for it is believed that ivory improves the chances of Dierguth looking favorably upon the rites.

There are three liturgies performed each day. The first begins at exactly midnight.at the top of the great obsidian obelisk known as the Tower of Spells. At its top is a crownshaped battlement where ighLbay and his Lichlords stand beneath the starless sky and utter incaruations to Dierguth for one hour. Only alter this time are iglubay and the other Lichlords granted their spells (including the use of magic user pel 15).

Secondl y, N ightbay orders three living slaves cleansed in preparation for the daily ceremonies.

At dawn and dusk, one slave is taken to the top of the Tower of Spells where Nightbay calls out Dierguth's name while his tali man is placed over the slave's prone body. With a sudden fury, a cloud of fiery ash sweeps over the top of the Tower, killing the victim through suffocation. Nightbav remains unharmed.

Th chief observance takes place at midday amid a long field of neatly furrowed rows known as Nightbav's Fleshly Garden. SLOne footpaths bisect the field and lead to the center where a short cinder furnace conlin uousty smokes. Beside the furnace stands a sacrificial altar which is horribly stained with dark red blotches.

Each day as the cinder-shaded sun pierces the midda y clouds, broken rays of violet

lig·lll stream down the furrowed rows, breaking into splintered beams that surround ihe sacrificial block. Hideous sounds Irorn the Death Horn beckon the undead to the garden where Nightbay stands beside the furnace holding a long curved staff with an elaborately carved ivory hilt. His rich violet robes blend in with the sullen sky and his magnificent jewel-studded crown reflects the terror in the face of the slave.

As the crowd or undead surrounds the field, it slowly begins LO cham and pray. The fire burns within the Iurnace as dwarven slaves stoke it with the mummified remains or long-dead dwarves. While the [James rise, so does the fervor of the undead. The slave i~ then offered to Dierguth, his blood flowing into the sunken troughs at each end of the SLOne al tar.

When the blood has coagulated under the violet sun light, the body is removed [rom the SLOne altar and placed into the furna e. Once the body is burned, the ashes are sea uered over the garden as Ierti lizauon,

Nightbay then cups his hands and holds rhern before his chest, chanting unh ly verses to regain the attention of his followers. When the chanting is finished, five bulbs are plucked from the garden. Each bulb has a long tap root resembling a deep red beet covered with a rhino pulsating membrane. Five specially selected undead (picked by N ightbay for their abilities to serve as spies or thieves) are ca lied £rom the crowd and kneel before the ceremonial stone block. Nightbay places the bulbs on the altar and each undead ingests a bulb while it still beats (see Fleshly Garden description).

After the bulbs are eaten, Nightbay leaves the garden and heads towards the enormou batholith while the five undead return LO til. moaning crowd,

Those ingesting the bulbs slowly regain thei r human forms. This cerernon y must be repealed once a week for thirteen weeks in order fOI" the transformations to be complete, Many given the gift of flesh are req u ired to return to the ci Lies of the li vi ng to prey upon th weak and wealthy, bringing back riches and golden treasures for the Lichlord Council.

In Nightbay's rote as king-of Verdaise, he is required by Dierguth to create many differ nt undead. To create lesser undead, many or the Evil slaves will be adequate, but for a powerful undead a willing subject must be available. In these cases, the potential undead must come to Verdaise or, ill rare circumstances, be sought OUl by the Lichlords,

Nightbay creates the undead inside the obsidian batholith whi h also houses the obsidian palace ol the Lichlords. Here Nightbay keeps all the necessary materials and reference works [or undead creation. By carefully following the prescribed rituals, Nightbay is capable of keeping the gods of death Irorn claiming the souls of many Evil humanoids. Instead of receiving their punishments (or Evil deeds, they are snatched by Nightbay and rewarded with undeath in Dierguih's service.

VERDAISE CALDERA

31

FLORA and FAUNA

At night ihe caldera is alive with the sounds and activities of insects and small reptiles. These creatures pose no problems (or living beings .. although it is disconcerting for a character to find him~eU being licked by lizards or covered by Insects searching for food and moisture.

RIGOLD BEETLE

One insect of note is the Rigold beetle.

This b 1 ue creature is about the si ze of a 11 acorn but it has powerful jaws that can chew through rock. While it won't normally harm living creatures (unless bothered or fr igh tened ,j n which case it cou Id cause 1·2 HTK). it does feed upon rotting matter.

The Rigold beetle is notable because some say it only lives in areas where the gem Rigold is abundant (see New Magic under Rigold=Bano Of the Undead for more information), This is true, but the beetle can only be found at night-wb.ich is a v ery cliff icul t task in itself.

There is a I % chance per hour of searching of finding a beetle. This increases the chance of findi ng Rigold from 'J % to 5% per [Otly rocks for each sighting of a beetle.

32

LA V A LIZARDS

These unusual reptiles are large and round, the size of ripe watermelons. Named [or their lava-colored skjn, !.hey live on the high ridges of active volcanoes.

The skin of the lava lizards is prized for its great ability to reflect hear, Anyone wearing doilies of this skin can withstand temperatures of 1,500 degrees Fahrenheit for a maximum of twenty minutes without taki.ng any damage. Afler rweruv minutes, a character wearing the skin would take t-<I HTK [or every rou nd that he or she remains within five Ieer of the heat source. Otherwise, a character feels comfortable in [em peraiures of up to 220 degrees Fahrenheit.

Lava lizard skin has the protective equivalent of. lea ther armor (A C 8) and is complerel y water repel la rn, After three mon ths the' skin begins to crack, making it useless asarrnor, It takes [our lava lizards to make a man-sized garment.

RABBITS AND DESERT QUAIL

Long-eared ra bb'its are abuudan t throughout Verdaise. They live mostly in areas where cooled basalt is exposed to the air. This allows the rabbits to feed on the tire-weed that grows in the crevices.

Desert quail are in all areas but the sou th west corner of the caldera. They feed 011 seed and insects and, like the rabbits, provide the only fresh game for the Bzontras and the residents of Ashlaeden.

ASH SWIMMER SNAKE

The rabbits and desert quail provide food for the ash swimmer-a black snake ~at moves beneath the ash when stalking ItS prey.

FIRE SNAKE

Another snakethat moves beneath the ash is the fire snake-noted by a reddish tinge to its skin and long protruding fangs. Tbe fire snake is deadly and will attack anything living to feed upon.

Due LO the ex trernes in the cI ima ie few plants can survive in Verdaise. T'hose ihargrow here live in the narrow belt surrounding lava rivers and takes. Many of these plants are dangerous and evil. Others have medicinal properties and serve as important sources of safe drinking fluids.

Rafleshia

AC: 8, HTK: 108 MV:None

AT: I, OM: See below AL: Neutral

IT: Non-

THACO: See below

Special: The [lower "an 5ho014D20 tiny seeds at a range of 20 feet. Any character within 20 feet must save vs. Wands or the seeds will land on biro and be inhaled or swallowed. The seeds will immediately begin 1.0 root and burrow towards the skeleton

The rafleshia is a floweri ng parasi te that resembles a huge black rose in full bloom, yet it has the smell of decaying flesh. Instead of growing in the ash, it grows on the bones of dead creatures. In its dormant state, the petals and a large button in the cen let of the flower, which consists of 4D2.0 seeds, dry up to appear dead. These seeds later eject themselves when the seemingly dead rafleshia senses a creature-living or dead-moving nearby.

The sprou ts do I D4 HTK of damage per round externally and 4-.24 HTK of damage (4D6) internally. A save vs. Poison will negate any internal damage. The only way to ki ll [he new growths is wi t.h. a Cure Disease spell or potion; Heal, Neutralize Poison, or Cure Wounds spells or potions only temporarily restore lost H'TKs but will not stop [he effects of the sprouts.

The parasi te feeds on the bones of i (5 host and is often found growing on skeletal undead. In suchcases, the undead will die after sustaining only one HTK of damage.

Removing external bodily growth does not destroy the parasite since it burrows into the skin and causes internal damage.

The Ash-Quaker

A C: 1, HTK: 5D8 MV: None

AL: Neutral

IT' Non-

AT: 1, OM: 1-8 THACO: 15 Special: See below

The ash-quaker is a hybrid ash tree that grows quickly. AI though it has not grown m Verdaise, it serves as a sad reminder that the legions of undead are penetrating the border lands beyond Verdaise, Much of the Forest of Evernight is Iilled with the dark arching boughs of the ash-quakers.

The only function of this mutated tree is to kill. It only grows after a sudden rain that follows a long drought. The increasing ~umber of ash-quakers is threatening to wipe out the original ash trees,

During its two-year life. the ash grows to the normal height of approximately eighty feel. After death, it still retains its leaves,

which drip a toxic chemical, killing all other trees jn a fifty-footradius. The newly infected trees will in turn die and become deadly ash "quakers,

These vile trees ale vicious and will not let any life-or even undead-pass unharmed ..

The trees attack with t .• "ir branches and exposed roots, dei ng 1-8 HTK of damage per attack. When rollrng to hit, a 20 on a I D20 req uires a rero II. If the roll is I -15-, the roe is impaled for double damage. A 16-19 means that an eye is hit; the damage is doubled and the victim loses an eye (GM discretion),

The ash-quaker's chemical composition makes it immune to normal fires a-nd cold. Magical fires such as a Fireball will do normal damage to the trees but will not set them on fire.

The hideous sounds of the Death Horn soothes the ash-quaker, causing it to cease its attack.

Yucca It berration

sc. Main Body 2; Head 0 HTK: See below

M 11: See below

AL: Neutral

IT: Non-

liT: See below, DM: See below THACO; 10 for runner; 15 for head

Made by Evi I magic-users a nd cI er ics, the yucca aberration is a cross between plant pans and human heads. T11is gruesome "planr" is another one of N ightba y' s in no" vaiions that he uses to insure his power in the land.

The yucca aberration looks like a giant yucca plant and is a formidable defense of the undead kingdom of Verdaise. It is found near lava lakes and rivers .. The ruling Lichlord, Nightbay, took a normal desert yucca and crossed it with a strawberry plant that had thick, sturdy runners. This specially bred plant grew to a height of eight feel and sent out runners in all directions. The runners can grow up to lorty feet long to gather nutrients, stabilize the main plant, and start new plants,

Once this giant yucca. was perfected, Nightbay masterminded a horrible monster by placing humanoid heads at the ends of the long runnel'S. Instead of passing over the ground, the runners burrow underground a wai ling the passage of li ve beings. Whenever a humanoid passes over the ashladen terrain, the runner shoots out of the ground and coils around its victim while [he yucca attacks with its mouth. If the runner succeeds in killing j ts prey, the head leeds off the dead body and begins to propagate a new plant, sending off new runners.

When attacking, the yucca aberration will first try to grab hold of its prey by coiling around the victim with one or more of its runners, This is accomplished by a successful [Q hit roll. The next round, it will attack with its attached head, biting and chewing for 1-6 + 1 HTK of damage and eventually consumes the trapped prey,

The runners are very thick and have an AC of 5. They each take up to 3-24 HTK of

damage before being severed. On I y 2D4 runners will actively attack unless the main body of the plant is attacked or if an enemy surrounds more than one side of the plant. In this case, (I D6+7) wiU return to defend the main body.

The main body of the plant has an Armor Class of 2., as it is very woody and can sustain 10"80 HTK of damage before the entire plant is killed. Severing the runners is usually the best way [Q kill smaller plants, as the runners act as roots .. The heads, which were originally taken from humanoid slaves, now grow by themsel ves as part ot the plant. They are hard to kill because of the quick movements of the runners. Each head has <In AC of 0 and up to 2D4HTK.

Yucca aberrations can be Turned (and will drop any prey) the same as mummies. Holy water does 1-4 HTK of damage, but only to the heads.

They are immune to Sleep, Charm, Hold, and other mind-affecting spells. Spells against plant life wilJ not affect these creatures, darkness will not make them dormant, [or they prefer small amounts of moonli gb l. Beca use of their tough ski n, all normal fire damage is halved.

BLACK CACTUS

This is a dark green/gray cactus thai sprouts several arms with long razor-sharp needles.

Cactus Juices

. The juice of the cactus is used by living beings as a source of liquid. If the insides are squeezed and the juices boiled, the result is a refreshing replacement [or water.

Undead, however, put the un boiled j uices into the water or wine of dwarven slaves. This drug. like liquid helps keep the slaves brainwashed and wining to make swords for Nigh tbay. Drinking the u nboiled juices has the effect of a Confusion spelJ for I D 10 turns with no save allowed, Also, the imbiber is much more susceptible to Charm or Suggestion spells, getting a -4 to all saves versus these spells. All saves against these spells are reduced by ten for the next teo turns.

Cactus Needles

The needles [rom the black cactus are frequently used by humans and dwarves as dam in blowguns. These will do 1-4 HTK of damage.

YARROW

This plant is about fifteen inches tall and has a rough stem and feathery [eaves, Crown ing the plan l are fiat- topped dusters of sweet-smelling white flowers.

HeaHng Potion

Yarrow rOOIS and flowers must be crushed and bolted until all water evaporates. (It takes about three hours to boil 10 plarns.) A soft paste is left that can be applied to wou nds. Cu ri ng one HTK req uires the root and flowers of tWO yarrow plants.

BLACK NIGHTSHADE

This shrubby weed has shiny oval leaves and grows LO a height of eight inches, It is found mostly near the basalt pillars. Nightshade can be distinguished by its plump black berries and its petals, which fold back LO reveal yellow anthers.

Berries

Each berry ingested causes 8 HTK of damage with no save allowed,

NETTLE

Growing only one inch high, nettle has toothed leaves covered with stinging hairs and dangling green/brown flowers.

Ale

If the fruit inside the flowers. of ten plants is crushed and boiled in two quarts of water for at least two hours, it makesa quart of line-tasting tea. If the fruit of thirty plants is boiled in two quarts of water for two hours, it produces a quart of hearty ale,

33

oS t C

D }

REGION I MAP

l:i: b. h o la

34

REGION I

WEATHER

This is the coldest region of Verdaise, Chi] ling winds and swirling iorren rs of ash con rtarulv beat down upon weary travelers who wander the southern waste. The wind chill here is zero degrees Fahrenheit. Visibility is very poor (no more than 25 Ieet regardless of light source, even Continual Light) and characters can easily become di oriented.

Unless there i a hire-folk player character among the party, there is a 10% chance that the party will be lost in this region; with the shire- folk party member there is only a 5% chance, Should an ash storm arise, characters have an even higher chance of getting lost. (See the Random Events section for details.)

REGION I Features

ASH DUNES

If applicable, read La the players:

Greal dunes, composed of fine' particles of ash, are ever-shifting across the barren wastes and reach heights of up to 50 feet.

....

All movement is halved while the characters cross the ash dunes.

Moving about beneath the layers of ash are the harmless black ash swimmer snake and the fire snake. The Eire snake has a red tinge to its skin and long protruding fangs. It i deadly, but it will not attack unless provoked. There is a 15% chance that the party will encounter a [ire snake in this 3Je3. If a character provokes a snake that character mUSL first save vs. his DX or be bitten. He must then save vs. Poison or the venom will do 2D20 HTK of damage per round until the poison is neutralized.

LA VA LAKE-DRAGON'S BLOOD

This bubbling lake, called Dragon's Blood by the Bzontra dwarves, covers three square miles. For any characters viewing the lake, read the following to the players:

Steam rises from the lake, smothering everything around its blackened shores with a hot, heavy vapor. Bubbles form across the entire lake, growing larger and more violent at the western edge. Here steam rises u.p from the base of a waterfall; these fa/Is flow over the cliff that rises up over the western bank of the lake.

"' ...

The 'waterfall' is actually is a stream of molten lava that flows from the northernmost lava river of this region (see Lava Riuers below),

As the molten rock falls into the lava lake, billows of white steam hiss from the base of the falls. Once the cascade of lava hits the lake it cools quickly, forming crusty protrusions that emerge from the lake like twisted, wrinkled coils of rope.

The temperature of the lava reaches 2.200 degrees Fahrenheit - hot enough lO instantly melt the flesh of any character [hal comes closer than 5 feet of the falls; no save is allowed. The character wil t sustain 3·24 HTK of damage each round thai he remains in this area.

The chilly winds temper the blistering heal so that characters wearing leather armor, padded armor, or no armor may venture within 10 feet of the lava falls and not be scorched. However, a character in metal or chain mail armor may only step within 20 feet of the lava falls (or take 1-6 HTK of damage per round) because the armor's material conducts the heal.

Desert wildlife lives in a band that encircles the lava lake, stretching from 20 to 2,000 feet from its shore. Rabbits and quail are abundant, as are black cactus, yarrow, and neule plants. (See the Flora and Fauna section for statistics and/or descriptions of these iterns.)

LAVA RIVERS

There are tWO lava rivers that run along the edge of this region. Each river is 30 feet wide. Approaching the flows of lava, characters see:

Boiling lava flows from. the volcano "Fire Mound" towards the west and south.

•••

The western river empties into the lava lake, Dragon's Blood. The southern river flows through the gap at the base of the caldera and cascades down a fissure into underground pools of fire.

Like the area around the fall described above in the Lava Lake section, temperatures run 2,200 degrees Fahrenheit. The same damage specifications as described in the Lava Lake section above also apply here.

Like the band of wiJdJ ife that surrounds the lava lake, a smaller selection of flora and fauna inhabit the strip of land 5 LO 500 feet on either side of the rivers, (See Flora and Fauna section for statisti s and descriptions of wildlife.)

LAVA TUNNELS (LA VA TUBES)

Beneath the rolling hills of solidified lava are hollow tunnels or tubes tha L form a labyrinth of onnecting pathways between the southeast and southwest. Only a welltrained Bzontra who is familiar with the land and knowledgeable of the secret dwarven signposts will be able to locate the entrances into this system of tunnels. However, it is possible for characters to find an opening in the southeast hillocks of Verdaise. See REGION n for details.

ACTIVE VOLCANO

As the part)' moves closer to tbe volcano. read the following to the players:

A biting wind hisses around the jagged ridges and ledges, tossing volcanic debris into the air. Heavy blankets of mist hang over the boiling streams of lava thai con-

linuQ,lly belch forth from the cone's mouth: ."' ..

This active volcano has been dubbed Fire Mound by the Bzontra dwarves.

Atthough climbing the 4,OOO-foot high volcanois possible, it is also very dangerous. Poisonous gasses are emitted from vents that peek Out from the sides of the volcano. For every three rounds a character spends climbing, that character mUSL save vs. Poison or be overcome with nausea. Three rounds later, the poisoned character will become unconscious and, if the poison is not neutralized, he or she will die three rounds after that,

Li vi ng on the volcanoes are fiery red la va lizards that ha ve been aptl y named for their lava-colored skin. (See the Flora and Fauna section for more details).

The lava lizards are practical ly undetectible next to the lava flows, They increase in number the higher up the volcano the character climbs. For each 400 feet, there is a 4% cumulative chance of spotting (and capturing) a lava lizard. Th lizards are slow moving. When one is cornered it will let out a high-pitched whine that warns the others of danger. In response, nearby lizards will hide alongside the lava [or 20 minutes (too 10 e for a character to safely reach unless protected by orne magical mans against Iire), While the lizards are hidden there i only a 2% chance (not cumulative) that a character will see one. After 20 minutes, the heat of the lava will force the lizards to move away.

BONE BRIDGES

If applicable. read the following to the players:

A five-foot wide bridge arches over the steamy Lava River. It is constructed of parched bones that look cracked and brittle; its rickety rails are swathed in mists and vapor.

There are two bone bridges in REGION I - each one crosses a river of lava. Regardless of how shakey the bridge appear, they are constructed of magically enchanted dwarven bones. These bones cannot be destroyed by any means other than a Raise Dead spell, which will cause the bones to tumble into the lava and float away.

The bones prevent an y thing or being on tile bridge from being harmed by the heat of the lava,

35

c

c o

REGION II MAP

NOTE: Descriptions that apply to the Brooding Dragon adllenture are gillen in bold italics on this map.

W( ere in do rei 311

REGION II

WEATHER

Arid winds and hovering douds of ash keep the temperature close to 35 degrees Fahrenheit (or 15 degrees with the wind chill Iactor). For characters other than those of cold-blooded races (such as reptilian forms),.lhe weather in this region does not directly affect playing conditions"

REGION II Features LA..VA. TUNNELS (Lava Tubes)

Within RE.GION II of Verdaise, the shadows and ridges of the j u tring hoodoos and the endless waves of hillocks make it very difficult ~ but nor impossible ~ to spot an opening into the maze of underground lava tunnels (also known as "lava tubes"). A dwarf, gnome, or elf traveling over these parched, ash-laden hiUs has a 6% chance of spouing an opening if he/she passes directly by it. All other races have a 3% chance of detecting the openings.

Once inside the tun nels, a gnome, dwarf, or shire-folk has a 70% chance of successfully choosing the desired directions at each crossroad. For all other races, the chance of choosing the right direction at each crossroad is reduced to 35%.

Should the characters enter a la va tun nel they will see:

The dark, gloomy tunnel has an 8-foot high /l.rc hed. ceiling. Its curved ground has a rounded ridge down the center and spans a width of up to 15 feet.

Normal movement is possible clown the center of the! ube, bu t rnovemen t is reduced to half along its sloping edges.

Lava tunnels are generally straight and clear of rubble. However, certain sections of the tunnel pass over empty cavities, making the pathway unstable. Please make sure thai the player characters' weights are included with their statistics or make up a logical weight for each character at this point. These areas are indicated on the Lava Tunnel Map with an asterisk ("'). An y weigh! over 10 pounds on the unstable ground will cause the floor tocolJapse; whomever or whatever falls through here wi II fall a nywhere from 10-100 feet in to the cavity below, laking ID6 HTK of damage for every 10 feel of the fa!! (GM roll). Every time a character or undead falls, there is a 20% chance that the crash will set off a small tremor, alerting Bzontras to the intruders' presence.

The Bzoruras know the locations of the weak spots in these tunnels. If intruders crash through the weak ground and turn ble into the hollow cavities. the dwarven freedom Lighters will later conceal or poorly repair the lava pathway so it will continually function as a trap against intruders.

In addition, the Bzontras have blasted holes into the walls at irregular intervals, thus interconnecting many runnels" They have also built a significant number of concealed doors, allowing them to pass undetected from one lava tunnel to another. Any concealed door that is forcefullv pushed open will release a nap of 2 quarts of holy water that squirts in a lO-foot radi us, ca usi ng 1 D8 HTK of damage to any doused undead. HoI y water is not norma! I y available in these quantities. However,the Bzontras have special clerics who bless enough water to keep al! of their traps set. The Bzontras know how to open the concealed doors gently without setting off these traps.

To further protect themselves from undead, the Bzontras have trapped many of the pathways with foot-deep puddles o[ hal y wa ter tha t cover an area 3 feet long and the width of the tunnel (causing 2D8 HTK of damage to each undead who passes through).

DORMANT VOLCANO

If applicable, read the (allowing to characters:

It is unnaturally quiet on the ridges of this dormant volcano, which is 2,000 feet high.

There are countless barren and desolate overhangs of dried lava here. Remnants of campfires can be seen.

•••

The lava. overhangs can provide shelter from the bi ting winds. The campfires were left by Rigold prospectors and hands of thieves.

FLESHLY GARDEN

If applicable, read to following to the players:

- A 300-x-300 foot garden is carefully tended with neatly plowed fields. Stone [ootpaths lead to its ceruer, where a small furnace smokes. Beside it stands a stone block that is stained dark red.

Walking around the perimeter of the garden are 20 mummies, each wearing a small golden amulet ..

• if!"

The mummies will attack any living creature entering the garden.

(20) Mummies

AC: 3, HTK: 6D8+3 MV:6"

AL: Lawful/Evil IT: Low

AT: 1, DM: 1,12 THACO; 13

Equipment: Golden Amulet of Resistance to Normal Fire (works only on non-living creatures).

Special; Hits inflict rotting disease; causes Fear within a 6O·foot radius unless a save vs, Spells is made; can only be hit by magical weapons, which do half damage; unaffected by Sleep, Charm, Hold, and Cold-based spells; not affected by Poison or Paralyzation.

For each Skill level of an adventurer who is sacrificed, a living root takes seed in the garden. Attached to the root is a bulb that resembles a deep red turnip covered with a thin pulsating membrane. For example, if a Skill 9 adventurer was sacrificed, there would be 9 new bulbs growing in the garden. These bulbs were created by Nightbay to grant his chosen undead the privilege of maintaining a human appearance.

Any living character standing within 10 feet of the field notices ... (read the following to players):

Your heart begins a strange, uneven beat that increases in intensity with each step you take closer 10 thejurnace. At last, when you reach the furnace, the pulsating beaJ. drowns out all other sounds and becomes a deafening, murderous dirge.

.....

Anyone standing within 2 feet.of toe lurnace must save vs, Fear. Failure to save renders the character totally mad; the characier will drop all weapons and cover his ears [0 block ou t the sound. He wit I rernai n senseless until dragged at least 10 feet from the furnace.

If a character begins to dig into the furrowed fields read the following aloud to the players:

You find a smooth but tough b lack mol attached to a but b. The bul b is encased in a thin, oozing, pulsating membrane. Holding the but b magn ijies the maddening beat into 1.1 hypnotic rhy.thm, mesmerizing you by its incessant sound.

.. .. .

If the character makes a save vs. IN he will LOSS the bulb back upon the ground. It will immediately burrow into the dirt and disappear from sight, releasing thecharacter £rom its hypnotic effect.

If a character ingests the bulb, he automatically gains one Skill level. No more than one btl I b per character can be ingested in a year's span. If more than one is ingested it causes nausea and vomiting, negating all of its positive effects. In addilion, a character's SM is reduced by 2 pain ts for as long as he or she remains inside the land of Verdaise. Once outside the land, the character's skin will peel for a week, reducing Appeal during that time by 4 points.

....

If the party visits the garden near noonlime read the foJ lowing tothe players:

The sun pierces through the douds and sends broken rays of light down the neatly furrowed rows .. The sounds of a gong can be heard resounding from deep uiithin the batholith. From the direction of the batholith come hordes oj undead that swiftly encircle the garden.

Slowly, a robed figure approaches the furnace; each step is like a precise cadence of a drum beat. He holds a long carved knife with an elaborately carved hilt; a magnificent' jewel-studded crown rests

37

upon his head. You notice that his left eye looks like a round faceted ball of marble. Both eyes focus on 11 terrified duiarj urho is tied to the stone block.

The crowd of undead begins 10 chant.

When the fervor heightens to a maddening pitch, the victim is slain and then stuffed inside the furnace, which dwarven slaves continually stoke. Within minutes, the victim's ashes are scattered ouer the [urroiaed. rows of rich dirt.

The crowned leader then pulls four dark purple bulbs with pulsating membranes f1'om the folds of his robes. He then beckons four undead from the group, These summoned creatures are partially covered by flesh and membranes; two are nearly human in appearance, the other two are more skeletal with mere patche of flesh.

Kneeling before the robed figure, the supplicants ingest a bulb uihile it still beals.

As the ceremony ends, the robed [igure leaves the garden and disappears amid the swirling winds of ash. The troops oj undead slowly leave, returning towards the batholith.

The robed figure is Nightbay (see statistics in The Lichlord Council section on page 7). The undead surrounding the garden during the ceremony include: 3D20 skeletons, 2D20 zombies, 2D 12 ghouls, 2D12 ghasts, 1010 rnumrnie (not including the 20 mummy guardians), JD4 vampires. and two Death Dragons.

The undead participating in the bulb ceremony were previously chosen by

ightbay. These selected undead maintain their humanoid forms through the daily worship ceremonies and serve as spies for the Lichlord Council. They often return to the ci Lies of the living and pass [or human beings. Preying on the weak and wealthy. the llesh-and-blocd undead return to Verdaise bringing special riches and prizes back to th if Lichlord.

PRISON

......

If characters investigate the prison. they will lind:

The walls oj this Urshaped. enclosure are built with 15-foot high basalt blocks that are 4 feel thick. Built on lop of the wall al each side of the V-shaped entrance is a large round orb that is 6 feet in diameter. A

glistening light emanates from around the center of each orb, flickering like 11 row oj embedded pale gems. Fifty feel beyond the entrance on opposite sides oj the courtyard, black stone turrets rise from the walls and overlook the rear oj the courtyard. A moat Of lava laps up against the turrets and divides the V-shaped courtyard i11 half.

In the front half of the courtyard near the northern wall, a ladder lies partially hidden in the sojt ground.

On the far side of the moat, rows of l' x-4' windowless stone cages arc built along the curved back wall.

\II' I- ..

Any character within 4{] feet of the orb will be spotted (unless Invisible). The eyes are controlled by Lhe large crystal eye in ightbay's left eye socket. Through these eyes Nigh [bay is able to know when there is any threat present.

The guardian eyes can be destroyed by a weapon (each orb has50HTK). Or, characters can successfully destroy the eyes by casting several spells, including Blindness. Shatter, Dispel Magic, etc. Also, the eyes can be Turned (the same as a lich) by a cleric; they will dose for as long as they are

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38 Turned. Whenever the eyes are damaged or umed, Nightbay will lose vision in his large globular left eye.

Once the guardian eyes have spotted a character or they are attacked by a weapon or a spell, characters have 5 rounds until the first Prison Escape Troops - 30 zornhies - appear and 10 rounds until a Death Dragon appears.

PRISON ESCAPE TROOPS (JO) rambies

ac. 8, HTK: 208 MV.·6

AL: Neutral IT: Non-

ATT: 1. DM: 1-8 THACO: 16

Special: Covered with Brain Dust (see New Magic Items).

Five rounds after an alert, 30 zombies (teleported by ightbay from the batholith) enter the prison between the orbs. In another round they will have entered the prison yard through the turrets. Around each zombie's neck is an amulet of a swollen eyeball, allowing Nightbay LO be aware ofany possible danger that an y of his undead may be in. The zombies' bodies are covered with din and a shim meri ng greyish dust. which is the Brain Dust (see New Magic Items for details).

Any successful strike against the zombie with a weapon will cause the dust from its body to be dispersed into [he air. However, if a zombie is turned or destroyed magical! y. me dust is not released.

Death Dragon

See New Monster section on page 25 for statistics and description.

Five rounds after the zombies appear, characters will be attacked by a Death Dragon.

The stone cages are prison cells. The cells may be reached by climbing over the walls or entering through the secret doors in the turrets. Flying over the moat is possible. However, if a character ventures within 20 feet of the moat, the heat rising from the lava will cause 3D8 HTK of damage; no save is allowed unless the character is protected against magical fil-e.

The doorway into each turret is secret [rom the ouuside of the turret. Once a character is inside the turret, however, the door is clearly visible. A winding SlIDr a e leads from the doorway [0 the base of the turret.

Another secret doorway leads into the LUITet £rom the prison yard. But once a character is inside the turret, it is also dead)' visible.

Thin arrow slits within each turret provide a view of the prison cells within the rear courtyard. Standing guard inside each turret is a wraith wearing an amulet of a swollen eyeball. The eyeball allows Nightbay to see whatever is in from of the guard wearing the amulet.

Hanging on a large hook inside each turret is a covered basket that holds a key to the prison cells. This large key is shaped like a serpent; its forked tongue forms the

notched edge that fits into the key slot (0 turn the boll.

Anytime the key is used (0 open a locked cell, it is transformed into a poisonous snake in 2 segments. Any living being with bare hands holding the key longer than that will be automatically bitten. The victim must save vs. Poison or die in 3 turns. Once the snake bites a victim, it will immediately turn back into a key. If the key is thrown on to the floor or back iruo the basket within 2 segments after unlocking a cell, the key will not be completely transformed. Therefore, no harm wiU be done and it will revert back into its original shape within 1 round.

(2) Wraith Guards

AC: 1, HTK: 28, 35 MV: 12"/2<1"

AL: Lawful/Evil IT: Very

ATT: I. DM: tD6 plus drains! Skill level

THACO: 15

Special: Can be hit only with silver weapons for halI damage or magic weapons for lu ll damage.

Once the WIa ith guards are a lerted to any

escape hey will attack any intruder. Each wraith guard is also wearing the same type of orb amulet that the Prison Escape Troop zombies are wearing. The first Prison Escape Troop zombie will appear in 5 rounds.

The ells are filled with dwarfs. shirefolk. elves, and humanoids. Most are nearly dead, either from starvation or mutilation.

SMALL LA VA LAKE

This lake is approximately 3,000' x l,OOO' and is fed by a lava river flowing frorn the volcano, Prison Peak. The lava's temperature is 2,200 degrees Fahrenheit.

On the wes tern perimeter of the lake is a band of desert wildlife and vegetation that stretches £rom 5 to 500 feel from the lava shores.

Although the cool winds temper the boi li ng lava, characters wi th leather armor, padded armor, or no armor may only approach within 10 feet of the shores (or take 3D8 HTK of damage per round). Characters with other forms of armor may only come within 20 feet of the lava shores (or take 3D8 HTK of damage per round).

39

REG ON III MAP

t P. b

40

REGION III

WEATHER

Less windy than the other regions, this area has a du II, hi uer cold that cl ings to the ground. Thin vapors rise from the ash like soft breaths of the barren wasteland. The temperature hovers around 35 degrees Fahrenheit day and night.

REGION III Features ACTIVE VOLCANO

Named Prison Peak, This volcano has the same description as the volcano m REGION I.

BASALT PILLARS/HOODOOS UNDERGROUND FOUNDRY

Most of the pillars or 'hoodoos' are exactly the same on the outside as in REGIONS I and II.

There is a 20% chance that the characters will notice a high narrow hoodoo (lao narrow to climb into) billow with a black heavy smoke that fades into the sullen douds of ash. There is an additional 10% Chance that every hoodoo that is wide enough to climb into will have iron rungs on the inside, leading to the undead's underground Ioundary operation.

It 11'''

If the characters climb down the hoodoo, read the following to the players:

You are entering a low, irregularly shaped cavity. In the comer rests an empty barre/and 100 feet of rope .. A Toughly cut archway of stone .leads down a narrow tunlui for 10DlO feet, then opens into a large underground cavern.

Ten durasuen slaves stumble around this totchli; chamber as if in a trance. Four of the dwarves are heating what appear to be pieces of steel over a large cauldron of bl:ood. Four more duraroes are beating the metal strips into blades and the [inal tuio are sharpening finished blades.

A pool of latla bubbles up through a crack in the stone floor, causing the entire room to be blanketed in a maze of steam and-mists. Above you, the roo] of the cavern narrows into a chimney-like pillar, open to the dark violet sky.

F [Dating through the chamber is a transparent jigure that fades in and out oj the mists like a cloud of steam.

... .

Upon seeing intruders, the spirit guard (a spectre) will attack immediately. The dwarves willcorninue their operation as though nothing unusual is happening. If the dwarves are spoken to by the characters, they will appear not to hear. A Dispel Magic will bring the dwarven slaves ou t of their trance bUL they will be too weak to escape from the cavern without help. Once they are outside, they will need to be given warmer clothes or they will perish from

exposure in 2 hours. If they are wid that there is an exit through the southern gap, they wiJi try to escape.

(I) Spectre

AC: 2, HTK: 37 (7D8 t 3) MV: 15"/30"

AL: Lawful/Evil

IT: High

ATT: I, DM: 1-8 THACO: 13

Special: Drains 2 Skill levels per hit; can only be rut by +1 or better magic weapons: not affected by Sleep, Charm, Hold, or Cold-Eased Spells; not affected by Poison or Paralyzation; can be killed by a Raise Dead spell.

In the far corner of the cavern is a barrel filled with 30 poorly-made short swords (worth 100 gp each).

BONE BRIDGE

Approaching the batholith, the characters see:

Diverted streams of lava flowing from the u» in volcanoes empty into a deep gorge surrounding the enormous standing stone, forming a blistering hoi moat.

Suspended over the steamy lava is a 5· foot wide bridge constructed of bleached bones. The far end of the bridge is hidden in heavy veils Of mist rising from the lava moat.

" ....

The bridge is 20 feet long. Read the following LO thecharacters as soon as they step half-way over the bridge (10 leer):

A hideous wail pierces the foggy darkness. As the unear.thly cry fades, the mis.ts parlial.iy clear. Standing before you is a beautiful woma11 clad in violet robes. Her hair is the color of dark copper and she stsetc hes out her arm as if to welcome you. "Whom do you seekt" she softly asks.

....

The woman is a vampire. Behind her, on the far end of the bridge, are 10 wraith guards; they are barely distinguishable among the mists; there is a 10% chance Ina t a player character will see the wraiths

The vampire will attempt to Charm all persons, sweetly promising them whatever they request. However, she will attempt to hue them to 'a place or refuge' - the prison camp where they will be used as slaves or sacrifice victims.

If the characters attack, the wraiths wilt help the vampire weaken the characters sufficiently to be thrown into prison. Only as a last resort will the wraiths attempt to kill the party members.

Vampire

AC: 1, HTK: 8D8+3 MV: 12"/18"

AL: Chaotic/Evil IT: Exceptional

AT;' 1, DM: 5-10 plus drains 2 Skill levels [rom victim

THACO: L2

Special: Can only be hit with t I or better weapons; unaffected by Sleep,

Charm, or Hold spells. If reduced to 0 HTK, the vampire turns gaseous and summons a replacement who will show up in 3 rounds.

(10) Wraiths

AC: 4, HTK: 5D8+3 MV: 12"/24"

AL: Lawful/Evil IT: Very

A T: I, DM: i -6 pi us drai ns I Skill level THACO: 15

Special: Can only be hit with silver weapons (half damage) or magic weapons (full damage).

BATHOLITH

This enormous standing stone (batholith) is 1,000-[eet high, 2,500-feel wide, and 6,OOO-£eet long. Characters who cross the bone bridge see:

Beyond the bone bridge is an enormous standing Slone made of black crystallized rock. Bulging ridges on its southern exposure form ZO-fool high scripted letters that read INSELBERG.

II is impossible to see the top oj the batholith, which is hidden amid the low hanging, tainted clouds.

There are no openings in or out oI the batholith. Even the most vigorous examination - whether by physical or magical means - will not detect any doors, windows, or openings. The batholith looks to be an ordinary block or stone.

Inside the batholith is the headquarters of the Li chlords (the Obsidian Palace), and Nightbay's experimental laboratories.

The batholith houses the more intel ligent undead; the rocky lairs and catacombs for lesser undead are also here. One can only enter the batholith by magical means.

TOWER OF SPELLS

If characters approach the Tower, read the following:

Made of smooth black obsidian, this sleek tower juts high into the purple sky. Its crown-shaped bauiemeru. rises up through the hal:"j clouds of ash.

An arched doorway faces east. Two shadowy figures can be seen crouched JUSI north of the Tower entrance.

•••

The lOO-foot high, 40'in diameter tower is constarul y guarded by two robed spectres .

(2) SPectres

AC: 2, HTK: 37,43 (7D8 + 3) MV: 15"/30"

AL: Lawful/Evil

IT: High

A TT: I, DM: 1-8 THACO: 13

Special: Drains 2 Skill levels per hit; can only be hit by +1 or better magic weapons; not affected by Sleep, Charm, Hold, or Cold-based spells;

41

not affected by poison or paralyzation. They can be killed by a Raise Dead spell.

The door to the ower opens inward.

Inside, a narrow rail-less staircase spirals unevenly upward into the darkne s, It appears that the walls of the Tower begin to narrow the higher one climbs.

After 50 feet (half-way up), the stairs appear to curve away from the wall. The wall is an Illusion; the true taircase continues upward past the illusionary stone wall. The stairs that curve away from the wall are also an illusion. If characters onunu on what appears lO be the continuaLion of the staircase - without testing the stairs before they proceed - they will [an

50 feet to the stone f100L No save is allowed, as the stairs have no rail and there is nothing to grab as one steps off into empty space. Appropriate falling damage applies.

If the characters discover the Illusion and continue up the real staircase, they will be led to a stone ceiling. Concealed in the stonework of the ceiling is a small hatch that leads onto the roof of the tower. It is here on the roof that Nightbay holds his dawn and dusk ceremonies LO his god Dierguth (see the Religion section on page 30 for details).

•••

If the party enters the roof, read the following to the players:

In the center oj the circular roof rests a marble slab. Hidden in the slab's eastern side i a small compartment. Inside the compartment is an ivory chalice studded with small red gems. Carved on the underside Of the chalice's ivory stem are magical runes.

. ....

To a magic user or cleric who reads magi , the runes ay: To drink of life. The ivory chalice with red gem (blood rubies) is worth 5,000 gpo Nigh tbay drinks dwarven blood from the chalice before the victim is offered to Dierguth during the dawn and dusk ceremonies.

1.
at
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42 off ASHLAEDEN

H characters approach the pathway leading down into Verdaise, they see:

A warm, light mist rises from a great Jissure in the caldera, which is about 450 [eet long alld 250 [eet wide. A I its north~rn tiP, a steep pathway descends into the mtsl.

If the characters climb down the path, read the following:

Roughl>' oual in shape, the fissure sinks toa depth of 150 [eet at the far southern end and rises towards the northern edge where it is the same level as the basin floor.

Shouts and laughter driJI up the sloping pathway. It seems that t~e air gro~s warmer as you descend deeper mto the [issure.

After 100 feet, the mists begin to clear and you see the roots Of wooden buildings and the tops of pitched tents.

Characters who enter the city see:

You aTe immediately surprised to see the townsfolk wandering about in summer clothing rather than the heavy garments needed ill the upper caldera.

From here you can see a large pool of bubbling water at the center of the town. Tents cover most oJ the northwestern seclion oj the fissure; these provide raggedy homes for m.any nasty-looking humans and their large covered caravans. There are also a few poorly-buill =«: ~nd .log buildings. The only stone building IS a large manor thai dominates the southern halJ oj the town. . .

A bustling business of some kind tS obviously taking place.

The sides of the crevice cannot be climbed except by a thief, who has 3. 2!i% chance of climbing it, because they curve inward,

'* • ..

The [Own of Ashlaeden is the center of the slave, ivory, and SW01'd trade thai is conducted between Nightbay and local profiteers. The town reSLS upon a large magma chamber which emana :es heat from below. A pool of bubbling mineral water marks the remnant of a geyser that occasionally spouted gas and steam. Because the town is buill within tbe fissure, the winds of the caldera's wastelands do not

peneuate to disperse the warmth. . .

All prices in Ashlaeden are SIX times higher than in an average city or town, reflecting the difficulty of supply.

1. THE TAVERN

"Thirst Q;uenching Drinks" reads a sign over this three-sided, run down shanty, A crowded bar neatly runs ih« length of the building's rear. The only other furniture is a long table in the center thai runs parallel 10 the bar. No intact chairs can be [ound, OIlly splintered pieces of chairs cover the floor.

....

II is evident thai all that this tavern has to offer adventurers .other than drinks, is the

smell of filthy traders (and maybe a punch in the mouth).

The owner, August Montier, is a tall, wiry man with thin lips and deep-set brown eyes, He wears a jerkin and trousers made of leather. When working, August takes orders [rom customers with a wide smile and an unrelenting gaze that weighs heavily upon customers.

Many customers thai August does not recogn ize are given a free drink called Lava o] Death. For the first drink a character must save vs. Poison or pass out. For each drink after thai, the imbibing character saves at -I La his die roll; the effects are cumulative. For example, a character who has already made his save for the first two drinks will save at ~2 to his saving throw on the third drink. Characters passing out while alone will be robbed by August.

August will not avoid confrontation. If overmatched, he will attack with his poison dagger .. At night he uses his thieving skills, targeting drunks or anyone found wandering through Ashlaeden alone.

August Montier, ShU 12 human thie] ST. 14, IT: 12, IN: 16

SM: 17(+2), DX: 17(+3), AP: II AC: 2 (with DEX adjustment) HTK: IOD6+4

MV: 12"

AL: Lawful/Evil

11 T: 1, DM: 2-9 with + I long sword; ] -4 with dagger (plus poison)

THACO: 16

Equipment: poison dagger (victim saves at +4 or dies)

SPecial: Attack from behind wit.h surprise; is +4 "LO hit" and quadruple damage; Pick Pockets: 105%, Open Locks: 87%; Find/Remove Traps: 75%; Move Silently: 99%; Hide In hadows: 82%; Hear Noise: 35%; Climb Walls, 92%; Read Languages: 60%.

August sleeps in a large tent behind the tavern. His belongings and treasure are kepi inside a large chest which is 10 ked and trapped. The lock is 75 percent to pick and too heavy to break without considerable noise and without triggering the poison gas trap. H the trap is nOL successfully removed anyone within the tern (or a 15- foot radius of the chest if moved outside the tent) must save vs. Poison or die in ~~5 rounds unless a spell such as Neutralize Poison is used.

On any given day, the chest holds between I ODD I 0 gp, IODl 0 sp, and a mixture of gems worth 1,500 gp, It always has a small inkpot that contains 1-3 applications of liquid poison for his dagg r tip.

2. BLA CKSMITH SHOP

Characters approaching the shop see; This shop is a weathered wooden building with a sign reading, "Smith" scrawled in red. paint across its boards. The entrance is through all opening where a door has been replaced by knuckle bones strung together like beads.

When the characters pass through the bony beads they se :

Materials are strewn about on the Jloor, making it difficult to walk. The center of tbe building contains a jirepit, where a long piece of glowing red iron Ius. U1~attended. A toothless, rat~faced man sits In a chair smoking a long-stemmed pipe.

In the northeast corneT, an open door leads into a surprisingly clean room with a cot and several [inished products such. as saddles, tack, harness, pack equipment, swords, horseshoes, and other leather and iron goods marked [or sale.

., ..

The sale items are crude and of poor quality. Obviously, the COL is not for sale; it belongs to the blacksmith, ..

The proprietor is known as 'the Gerbil.

He is a squat, stumpy man. Except for the (act that he has no Leeth, his [ace resembles that of a rat. His waddling walk masks his quickness and agility in combat. Although he is Iriendly La prospective customers, the Gerbil will not tolerate anyone asking ques ions unrelated LO business. Prying customers will be regarded with uspicion and will be reponed LO guards of the Moon's Silhoueue (see liS, Dwelling oj the Slaue Queen).

During combat, the Gerbil wields his 2~ handed sword with unexpected grace. He always keeps the sword unsheathed and within arm's reach, He' wears no armor, just leather pants and a cotton shirt.

The Gerbil, Skill 7 human [ighter

5T: 18/55 (+2 to hit, +.3 to damage) IT: 6, IN: 5, SM: 18(+4)

DX: 16, AP; 7

AC: 8 due La his DEX, HTK; 7DlO MV;9"

AL: Neutral/Evil

AT: 1, DM: l~IO +3 with 2-handed sword

THACO: 12

The doorway opposi te the en rra nee leads La the stable, The Gerbil has his personal items and treasure (100 gp, 105 p) hidden here in a leather sack.

J. THE STABLES

If the characters en tel' the stab Ies read the following to the players:

Built onto the b lac ksmith shop is another ramshackle wooden firetrap. The smell of manure and hay greets you as you enter.

Straw lies on the Jloor of the building that houses six stalls and a storage compartment for hay. Two stalls are occupied. There is a mule in L he stall along the 110rt It wall and in a stall on the eastern wall, a proud black stallion snorts. The horse's coal is immaculate and well tended.

.....

In the center of the stable mice scurry about through the scattered hay. There. is a 30% chance that any character walking II1tO the stables and not looking at the ground will step on a rake, {arcing its handle to bounce up and hit the character's head (causing only embarrassment bu t no

damage). 43

ASHLAEDEN

1. Tavern

2. Blacksmith

3. Stables

4. Ivory Trader

5. Slave Queen Compound

6. Tent of Transactions

7. Traders' Camp

8. Brothel

9. Supply House

Door -_..,...-

44

The mule was taken (rom a uader who wa killed when the Gerbil caught him trying to steal a saddle Irom the back room of the blacksmith's shop. The black horse is Ashley, the Gerbil's pride and joy. II anyone should harm the horse, the Gerbil will fight to the death. Ashley guards a (he l that holds his master's irea ure, This consists of 3D10 gp, 2DIO sp, a rubystudded dagger worth 750 gp and a porion of Gaseous Form,

Ashley, horse

AC: 7, HTK: 408 MV:24"

iT: Animal

AL' Neutral ATT: t, DM: 1-3 THACO: 16

Unless magically restrained, Ashley will always attack anyone (except the Gerbil) who enters his stall.

4, TENT OF THE IVORY TRADER

Read the [allowing to the players if the party is outside the tent:

Your eyes are' drawn to the brightness of a large orange tent. Its opening has two hollow ivory lubes dangling in front of it, each wilh a name inscribed on it. One is Morton, the other, Festrell,

Behind the tent is a wagon with two horses tied to it. One horse is a chestnut beaut'j and the other horse appears to be a while plow horse.

•••

If the characters go into the tent, read the following lO the players:

Roomy enough for 4 humans, the tent contains one bedroll, two finely crafted wooden chairs, and two small wooden barrels resting on a rug of exquisite weaving"

A handsome but extremely thin man sits on one of the chairs, examining ivory statues of a War Mammoth and a Death Dragon. He wears a [ade-eolared, studded leather shirt: His long black hair is pulled back over h 2S squared shoulders and tied in a ShOTt pony tai l. He smiles up at you and begins rubbing an ivory ring on his hand.

•••

The man, Monon Festrell, holds aruficial ivory reproductions of a War Mammoth and a Death Dragon. He will auernpt to sell these as real ivory to strangers for 2,000 gp each. Their actual value is 200 gp each,

)f the characters choose to negotiate [or the statues, two thugs will strut into the lent, ackowledge lorton, and ask if he needs help with anything. Unless he feels threatened, Morton will shake his head and tell them to wait outside while sighing, "My poor undeserving brothers, ,.

Morton works as an agent for the Cecrops (see New Monsters for a description of this race of half human/half dragon creatures). Since the Cecrops will not enter Verdaise,

they have hired Monon to do their bidding"

His two hired thugs - Galbraith and Gitern - are well paid and fiercely loyal bodyguards. They are large, muscled men who do not seem too intelligent. They wear chain armor and coifs wh ich cover the scars and hide the broken bones marring their b die and heads. They are paid to can the ivory from the Evernight Forest through the gates of Verdaise into Ashlaeden.

When ivory trade is slow. the thugs are sent by Monon to prospect for Rigold. While this is forbidden by Nightbay and hi' subjects, the promise of money peaks louder than the law in this town or smugglers and thieves, The penally [or Rigold prospecting is death.

Morton Festrell, Skill 5 human fighter ST: IT: 14, IN: 17

SM: 14, DX: 14, AP: 17 AC: 5, HTK: 5010 MV:I2"

AL: Lawful/Evil

AT: I, DM: 1-6 with short sword THACO: 16

Equipment: +2 studded leather armor, Ring of Free Action, and 2 potions ol Cure Light Wounds.

Galbraith and CUero, Skill 9 human [ighiers

ST: 15,IT: 14, IN: 12

M: 16, DX: 14, AP: 11 AC: 5, HTK: IlDB, 12D8 MV:9"

THACO:' 9 (due La +2 strength and t I sword)

AL: Lawful/Evil

AT: I, DM: 3-9 with +1 broad sword Equipment: Chain armor

The barrel s in the room hold dried frui ts and salted meats. There is a locked cedar box bui It into the ground under the carpet where MOrlan stores his ivory. Personal treasure is in the box under a false bottom. At anyone time, there are 4D20 x 500 gp worth of ivory in the top. Hidden in the false bottom are 3D20 x 40 gp, 2D20 x 60 sp, and 3D20 x 100 cp as well as gems worth 3,000 gp, potions of Haste, Invisibility, and Cure Light Wounds (x2). There is a 20% chance that Monon will have 1-2 Rigold stones that can be cut into I oz. gems - each worth 5,000 gpo

5. COMPOUND OF THE SLA VE QUEEN

If the player characters come upon the compound, read the following to the players:

You come upon a dry moat that is 15 feel deep and wide. Sharp metal spike protruding from the bottom wait to impale anyone who should fall into the moat. Across from the moal, a man-made ridge of volcanic deb ris rises /0 a height of 15 feet. Eight guards stand patrol across the ridge.

.. ~

The only cro sing point is a guard SUi" tion at the center of the moat's eastern side, where a 5-foot wide wooden plank spans the defense. It is watched by six soldiers

wearing chain armor and brandishing broad swords.

The spikes in the moat have a THACO of 12 and cause [-!O HTK of damage when fallen upon. Anyone falling in the moat has a 30% chance of being impaled by ID4 of the deadly metal takes.

The Slave Queen's compound is under watch 24 hours a day by a total of 42 guards. Du ri ng all 8- bour periods, 14 guards are on dury; the other 28 are on call. There is always one Skill 8 guard on duty. The guards display complete loyalty (mostly OUt of fear) to their Slave Queen leader, who is sometimes known as the Moon's Silhouette. (See section 5c. The Slave Queen's Office, for her staustics.)

Anyone crossing the moat must first climb the ridge of volcanic debri before reaching the grounds of the Moon's Silhouette's home. he ridge is guarded by <I pairs of warriors who patrol the top, taking care not La follow any regular pattern.

Of the (42) guards, there are:

(J9) Skill 5 human fighters

AC: 5, HTK: 5010 MV:9"

AL: Lawful/Evil

AT: .I, OM: 2·8 (broad sword) THACO: 16

Equipment: Chain armor, broad sword, oxhorn (instrument)

(J) suu s human fighters AC: 2, HTK: 8010 MV:6"

AL: Lawful/Evil

AT: 1 In first round, 2 [rom second round on.

DM: 2-9 with + 1 long swords THACO: 13

Equipment: Plate mail.shield, t l long sword, oxhorn

The party's chance of being seen in dayligh t is 85%, diminishing to 55% during the night. Tb ieves have appropriate Hide in Shadows bonuses. Of course, Invisible characters will nOL be seen. If something strange is noticed, a guard will blow his oxhorn twice. From within the guardhouse, all off-duty men that are in the compound will rally to the point of trouble. Response takes 2 rounds.

The onl y tim I' a guard willI eave his post is when the horns are blown 3 times - indicating a serious problem. Response takes I round.

• ,. *'

If characters reach ibe tOP of the ridge or enter the compound, they see:

A stone walkway leads west toward a rectangular-shaped building made from blocks of olive green stone. No windows can be seen but there are 3 doors - 2 are along the east wall, 1 on the west.

In the northern half of the compound are 8 cages that are 9' x 9' each.

.. .. ..

Two cages are empty. Six others are crammed with 8 slaves each, all waiting lO be handed over to Duke Stanton when the cages are all filled. The prisoners are Skill 0 peasants, weakened and helpless.

45

The Slant: building houses both the Moon's Silhouette and her guardsmen. It is made of l-cubic fOOL basalt blocks pieced firmly together.

The 2 entrances on the southern portion of the rectangular-shaped building lead to the guard's quarters. These doors are bound with iron strips and are large enough (or lWO armored men to exit at the same Lime. To prevent unwanted intruders. the doors are also barred from the i nside by thick oak planks. (Breaking down the door requires 40 HTK of damage and the door is AC 3. The door can also be opened by magical means.)

The entrance on the northern section of the building leads to the Slave Queen's dwelling. Distrustful and suspicious, she has designed an elaborate lock on the door which is -35% LO pick. '

5(1.. THE GUARDS' QUARTERS

H the chara ters open the door using magical means, they gain the advantage of surprise (read to the players):

In a 30' -x-30' room filled with cots, 20 guards are relaxing. Many are sleeping, 01 hers are eating, speaking in small groups or b'Luy mending clothes. A barred door is directly across from J'Ou..

""''''

The characters will have Surprise and

~an attack Iirst, There are 14 guards sleeprng on the COlS, 6 more are awake. How" ever, if the party enters forcibly, the guardsmen will be fully armored and wielding swords. The oxhorn will be blown three times, warning the Slave Queen of danger. She will then join the auack on the party.

Scauered under the cots are 42 small locked chests. Each chest has a name carved into the leather bindings. The contents include normal clothing, personal items, and 2D8 gp, 3D 12 sp, and 50 J 2 cp,

The barred door leads outside. There is

no entrance into the northern section of the building from inside the guards' quarters.

5b. THE MOON'S SILHOUETTE

If characters enter the northern section of the building read the following lO the players:

Before you is a beautifully furnished 20'x-20' living area with exquisite paintings covering plain pale walls. The handcrafted furniture looks quite comfortable. It is obVIOUS tha: a rich and powerful person lives here. A dosed door is opposite the entrance.

" " It

The five paintings, which are all Land-

scapes of different areas of Verdaise, are worth 5,000 gp each. The couch and chair are worth 3,500 gp and 2,000 gp respectively. There is a richly-colored rug worth 4,000 gp, two gold vases that are inlaid with precious stones are worth 3,500 gp each, three chairs worth 5,500 gp each, and a set of 6 platinum goblets that is worth 3,000 gp per goblet.

Depending on when the party enters the room, they run the risk of encountering the Moon's Silhoueue (the Slave Queen), who IS a Moonscourge (see New Monsters for more on Moonscourges). There is a 30% chance at.night and 50% chance during the day. AI nighr she will be in her office; during the day she will be in the living quarter~ i? her invisible form, admiring her pamungs.

The Moon's Silhouette, Moonscourge (a.k.a. The Slave Queen)

ST: 18, IT: 17, IN: 16 SM: 16, DX: 18, AP: 18 AC: 2, HTK: 11 D8 MV: 12"

A L: ChaoLic/N eu tra 1

AT: 1, DM: 1-10 or b'Y weapon Tl-JAGO: 12

Special: Thief abilities, +t ro hit from Surprise, backstab does quadruple damage; Open Locks: 62%; Find/Re-

mC:lVe Traps: 60%; Move Silently: 70%; Hide In Shadows: 56%; Climb Walls 98%. Also has ability to change viclim~ to Moon scourges, engage in lunatic frenzy and tum invisible during the day.

Resemb ling a pale golden goddess, her deadly beauty is accented by the finest clothes money can buy. Those who have dealt with her realize quickly thai her ternpermen I does not rna tch her warm eyes and sensuous smile. Anger comes quickly to the Moon's Silhouette. and she will not tolerale defiance or competition. If anyone angers her by competing in the slave trade, the unfortunate soul is usually found with a broken neck shortly after the transaction is completed with Nightbay's agent, Duke Edgar Stanton.

The Slave Queen stalks her victims during the day or on moonless nights, when she IS most powerful. During the day she becomes invisible, having no weight, smell, true form, or strength. She can move without restriction unles he tries to enter an airtight area.

The only person known LO successfully defy the Moon's Silhouette in the slave trade is the Dwarfeng Cruenk, who has earned a grudging respect [rom the Slave Queen.

5c. SIA FE QUEEN'S OFFICE

. II the pany goes into the office they will find (:-ead the following to the players):

T ~IS 10' -x-20'room is distinctly differ· ent 111 appearance than ihe one you jw;1 exited. A wooden desk rests near the back 0/ the room and the west wall is covered by a bookcase that holds many old, dusty books. An iron strongbox lies upon the floor by

46

the bookcase. M ounted on the north wall is a large portrait of a very offici'al-looking maTi. Strangely, a jeweled dagger has been plunged into his throat so that small slices of lorn canvas appear like ragged pieces of flesh curling around the dagger.

.....

This section of the basalt dwelling houses the living quarters of the Slave Queen, chief slave trader in Ashlaeden. The emry mom La the Moon's Silhouette's quarters contains several expensive items.

There is a richly-coloredrugwonh 3,000 gp, two gold vases that are inlaid with precious stones are worth 3,500 gp each, three chairs worth 5,500 each, a carved wooden table worth 5,000, and a set of 6 platinum goblets mal is worth 2,.000 gp per goblet.

In her office she has books; these are journals of the slave trade business. The painting is of the magistrate that had her hung for murder. The chest holds pa ymen t money for the guards and 3 items of jewelry. The value of each piece is 12,000 gpo There are 5,000 gp, and 2,000 sp. The jewelry is all wrought gold, studded with diamonds (her favorite gem). The strongbox isn't locked because the Slave Queen cares little for monetary wealth; she much prefers weal th in the form of Ii ne pai nti rigs and furnishings.

6. TENT OF TRANSACTIONS

GM NOTE: This tent is on ly in place when Duke Edgar Stanton is about [0 trade with the Moon's Silhouette or Cruenk.

Approaching the rent, the characters see (read to the players):

A large black tent stands [ust in front of the fissure's east wall. The sides of the tent have paintings of a uulture holding a skull ill its beak.

AI the entrance to the tent, two rotting creatures wearing tattered and torn crimson burial clothes stand guard. Twenty - four skeletons mill about [our wagons whose cargo is hidden by leather coverings. There are four skeletal mules hitched to each. wagon. Six dwarven slaves are shackled to the wheels of one wagon. Sitting on the ground hugging their knees, they stare 0.1 your party with open disgust.

.....

The rotting creatures are wights.

(2) wights

AC: 5, HTK; 4D8, 5D8 MV: 12

AL: Lawful/Evil IT: Average

AT: 1, DM: 1-4 plus one Skill level drain

THACO: 15

Special: Can only be hit by silver or magic weapons; not affected by Sleep, Charm, Hold, or Cold-based spells, Poison, or Paralyzation.

(24) skeletons

AC: 7, HTK: 108 MV: 12"

AL.: Neutral

IT: Non-

AT: 1,DM: /-6 THACO: 19

Special: Immune to Sleep, Charm, Hold, and Cold-based spells; half damage Irorn edged weapons.

Inside each wagon are 3 barrels, each holding 100 short swords. Each sword is worth 40 gpo

"' ...

If the characters enter the tent, read the following to the players:

Seated on a plush sedan chair is a tall pale man dressed in fine clothing.

A sable cape is pulled. tightly around his upper body by long transparent fingers. Standing beside him an attractive, scantily clad woman leeds him red, cherry-like globules while he listens to the jittery tones of a well-armored dwarf.

In the darkness of the southeast corner, a faint figure can be distinguished .. Sumptuous jurnis hings and food decorate the tent .....

When a meeti ng is to take place, a group of lowly undead ani ve in advance LO pu t up the tent and provide it with rich furnishingsand food.

The man seated in the sedan chair is the vampire Duke Edgar Stanton, Nightbay's agent in securing ivory and slaves in return for weapons. The Duke is awaiting Cruenk, the Dwarfeng, to discuss a future transaction. (See Special Non-Player Characters for more on Cruenk.)

A slave woman is feeding dried blood to tile Duke while the envoy of Cruenk explains why his leader has been detained; Cruenk is bringing in extra wagonload..s of dead bodies for induction into the undead legions.

While the Duke deals mainly in slaves, he wi II pay gold [or large shipments of dead recruits.

The figure in the corner .is tile wraith Opbron ..

Ophron the trading agent, Wraith AC: 5, HTK: 6D8

MV: 12"/24"

AL: Lawful/Evil

IT: Very

AT: 1

DM: 1-6 plus drains one Skill level THACO: 15

Special: Can be hit only by silver or magic weapons; has no power in full sunlight,

Duke Edgar Stanton, Vampire AC: l, HTK; 8D8+3

MV: 12"/18"

AL: Chaotic/Evil IT: Exceptional AT:]

DM: 5·10 pJ us drains 2 Skill levels THACO: 12

Special: Can only be hit with a + I or

better weapon; unaffected by Sleep, Charm, or Hold spells. If he is reduced LO 0 HTR he will turn gaseous.

Dwarfeng, Skill 4 fighter AC: 4, HTK; 4010 MV:g."

AL: Neutral IT: Average

AT: 1, DM: 1-6 broad sword THACO: 15

Equipment: Chainmail, shield, broad sword, a pouch with 10 gp, 20 sp, 15 cp, and a potion of Gaseous Form.

(/) Slave woman - Skill 0

Duke Stanton is a no-nonsense trader who rarely pUIS up with excuses. He only meets with individuals who handle large quantities of ivory and slaves. He enters Ashlaeden with great fanfare, seated in a sedan chair carried by six dwarven slaves. As protection, the fissure is surrounded by an undead guard that protects him against a surprise attack.

The Duke is always found in the company of the wraith Ophron, two wight guards, and at least two dozen skeletons.

Ophron also has the du ty of deal ing with an yone trading in small quan ti ties of ivory and slaves. He arrives quietly and trades in misty corners of the barren town. Most of those who. trade slaves to Ophron end up dead before leaving Ashlaeden for he alwa ys reports them to the Moon's Silhouette after the dea.l has been completed.

When he is with Duke Stanton, Ophron only appears in spiritual form. At all other times, he wears yellow bloodstained robes. Having no vocal cords, he speaks telepathically to all bei ngs he encounters. He hears by interpreting sound waves.

7. THE TRADERS' CAMP

As the party approaches the camp read the following to the players:

An uneven cluster of tents reaches back to the [issure's west walls. Mule-drawn wagons and men roll in and out, kicking ash hig h in to the air. Those who are camping in the make-shift. tents are large and brutish-looking. The smell of unwashed bodies permeates the air.

- ;f; ;1;.

The trading camp hosts a high level of activity. Slave caravans arrive every other day and stay a few nights before departing with a load of swords. A typical caravan consists of 2-4 wagons of slaves, one wagon of provisions, 16 mules, and 25 men.

Most of the slavers are a very rowdy crew.

They spend their free Lime drinking, fighti ng, carousing, and sometimes prospecting for [he forbidden gem, Rigold. They sleep in tents, wagons, or the open :jill.

(25) Traders, Skill 3 human fighters

AC; 8, HTK: 3DlO MV'12"

AL: Neutral/Evil IT: Average

AT; I, DM: 1-8 THACO;16

47

Weapons: Longsword

Equipment: leather armor, large pouch with ID4gp, 4DlOsp, 4DIOcp, a bottle of cheap ale, dried rations, a tinder box, and 5 torches.

8. THE BROTHEL

As the party approaches the brothel, read the following to the players:

A black, unroojed building needs no sign Jar you to know that it is a house oj ill repute. Five women and 2 men in gaudy attire stand next to its rotting timbers. Four nasty-looking Duiarjengs are standing here as well. Shouts of raucous laughter spill out from the open door.

......

This house of pleasure is run by the Dwarfeng Cecil Brumsiey. Disease and squalor pervade this overpriced (10 gp/hour) firetrap. (See below for Brumsley's statisucs.)

Characters must pay to enter the brothel.

If they refuse, they will be accosted by the 3 Dwar£eng bodyguards. Being slaves, the men and women that work for the house will cheer for the party during any Iighi.

Anyone having intimate contact with one of the companions has a 40% chance of contracting a disease and a 75% chance of infestation by Iice.

The disease will do 2D4 HTK of damage the Iirsi week, 2D8 HTK of damage per week during the next three weeks, then 2D20 HTK of damage {or each week after that; this damage is cumulative. In addition, the unfortunate character will perm allen d y lose 1 point of SM per week from the Iifih week on. A character that is infested wi th lice will have a -2 LO all attack rolls due La itching,

he I Let' rna y be removed magics lly (w i ih the Repel Insects spell, [or example). They may also be r 'moved by shaving all of the affl icred character's body hair, [allowed by a thorough washing in lamp oil.

(4) Skill ;; Dusarfeng fighters (bouncers) AC: 8, HTK: 3D10

MV: 12"

IT: Average

AL: eutral/Evil AT: 1, DM: 1-8 THACO: 18

Weapons: Short sword

Equipment: Leather armor, pouch holding 10-40 sp, 10-40 cp, a bottle of ale and rancid rations.

•••

If the ad ven turers enter with their choice of companion (there are both male and female companions here), they see:

Five empty straw beds rest upon the filthy floor; another holds a couple that totally ignores you. It appears that each bed was once in i Is own room, but the walls have all fallen or been tom down. In the northeast wall, you see a shut door.

......

The door to the back room is locked. U the characters are able to enter:

48

The gl i Iter of gold and si lver on the J loot stands out among the [ood bits, cockroaches and rags.

.. .. ...

Scattered among the vermin and deadly Rafleshia seeds (see below) lies 500 gp, 200 sp, and 5 small gems that are worth 800 gp each.

Those entering the treasure room will aurornaucally be infested with lice and fleas (causing no damage, but extreme irriration due to itching). This infestation can be countered by washing in lamp oil.

Anyone searching the floor for treasure has a 75% chance to be exposed externally to the Rafleshia seeds. Once a character is ex posed, there is a 15% chance tha t [he seeds will be ingested,

Rafleshia

AC: S. HTK: IDS

Special: If ingested, the seeds root in body I issues and burrow towards tilt' skeleton. Externally, the seeds ause I D4 HTK of damage per round. Internally, the seeds cause 1D6 HTK of damage. A save vs. Poison negates internal damage. If (he save is failed, th only way to kill the parasite is with a Cure Disease spell. Hea l ing spells 01' potions have no effect. One vial of holy water, bathed on external wounds slows the growth of the parasite, I irniting external damage to 1-2 HTK of damage every round for 3 rounds. Drinking on vial of holy water reduces internal damage to 2D8 HTK of damage per round (or three rounds.

Cecil Brumsley, Skill 10 Durarjeng fighter ST: 16 (+1 to damage), IT: 8

IN: 4, SM: J7 (+3 HTKlSkill)

DX: 12, AP; 10

AC: 6, HTK: 9D10+3 MV: 12"

AL: Chaotic/Evil

AT: 1, DM: 1-8 with short sword THACO: 12

Weapons: Short sword

Equipment: Lizard armor, +2 Ring of Protection, Net of Snaring.

Cecil always wears a broad smile across his pudgy bearded face. His plump short body is adorned in clothing made from the skin of the lava lizard (see New Monsters for description and statistics).

Normally, Cecil is not seen in the brothel. Instead, he spends his time in the tavern (Building # I) drinking and trying to drum up business. He makes a fine living and, since there is no place to spend his money, Cecil just stashes it in the disgusting room in the back of his building.

To get bis treasure, Cecil walks close to the wa lIs to the back of the room w here his treasure chest is hidden beneath heaps of trash. He has carefully kept the Rafleshia seeds away from the trash hiding his treasure. In the chest is 3,000 gp, 7,000 sp, and miscellaneous gems worth2,000 gp.

Cecil has hired 6 Dwarfeng figh ters to act as fee collectors and bouncers. Three of the fighters are always on duty and particu-

larly noticeable. The others can be found in the brothel, the lavern, or the traders' camp.

Cecil resides behind the brothel in a simple tent.

9. THE SUPPLY ROUSE

Read jhe following to th players:

Standing on the roof of a 30'-x-30' red log building are Jour alert warriors wearing chain mail. Guarding a padlocked door are two more stout warriors.

Against the south wall a rung ladder leads up to the roof.

.. " ..

This structure houses all the necessary supplies fOT the permanent residents of Ashlaeden, The padlock is very strong and is -30% to pick. The padlock can be broken with 15 HTK of damage (treating the padlock as AC: 3), but it would cause a 10[ of noise. The building cannot be burned by normal fire because it is kept coated with red War Paint (see Magic Items). Each land owner has a key.

The supply house is protected by l2 halforcs. Six are always on-duty; the others are either asleep or at the tavern.

(6-12) Shill 6 hail-ore fighters AC: 4, HTK: 6DlO MV:9"

AL: ChaOliciEvil

A T: I, DM: 1-8 long sword THACO: 13

Weapons and Armor: Chain mail and long sword.

Equipment: Helm, small pouch containing lDIO gp, 1012 sp, and 2DI2 cp,

.." ..

If characters climb to the roof read the following to the players:

The TOO/ slants slightly 10 the building'S rea,r.

Once the characters are inside the building read the following to tbe players:

Upon opening the door, the squeaking of startled mice can be heard. Barrels, cash, and sacks are piled head-high throughoui the building. The room is sectioned and well marked according to contents and owner.

Salted and smoked foods, sacks oj graill, casks of water and wine, etc., are kept here.

Every two months, a large caravan pull> into town LO replenish supplies.

(

THE MAIN ENTRANCE

From the inside of the caldera, viewing OUt (read to the players):

Two enormous doors of bronze fill in 6 great gap in the northeast caldera rim. CIII into the base oj the sheer rock walls are 6 dark 7-foot holes that occasionally Jlickt1 with the sheen oj metal.

......

From outside the caldera, looking in:

TU)oenormous doors of bronze fill in the great gap in the northeast caldera rim. Rouud symbols of a uultuse holding a human skull in its beak are cast in the cm!er oj each bronze door. The eyes of the pultUH seem to follow your every movement:

. ...

Housed in the dark holes is a regiment of undead soldiers, consisting of 400 skeletons, 200 zombies, 100 mummies, 70 ghouls, 50 wights, 5 wrai ths, I spectre (the leader), and 50 dwarven slaves.

The vulture's eyes are white globular eyeballs, Through these, Nightbay can be aware of any possible threats to him or his undead, One of the wraith guards also has a crystal ball that mirrors whatever the vullure's eyes see. Depending upon who appears at the gate, the guards decide whether or not to permit entry,

Two mummies are in charge of 2 giant cranks that open the doors inward. The cranks are manned by dwarven slaves. It takes 4 rounds to completely open the bronze doors. Anytime that the doors are opened, one-quarter of the undead regiment is stationed outside the entrance. Ina surprise attack, the spectre blows his Death Horn (see New Magic Items), alerting the remaining guards.

Jf they are alerted to a large a uack within Ashlaeden, half of the guards will immediately move to defend the town. They will begin arriving in two rounds.

(#)0) skeletons

AC: 7, HTK: ID8 MV:12"

IT: Non-

AL: Neutral

AT.: I, DM.: ]·6 THACO: 19

Special: Immune to Sleep, Charm, Hold and Cold-based spells; half damage from edged weapons.

(200) zombies

AC: 8, HTK: 2D8 MV:6"

IT: Non-

AL: Neutral

AT: 1, DM: 1-8 THACO: 16

Special: Immune to Sleep, Charm, Hold and Cold-based spells.

(100) mummies

AC: 3, HTK: 6D8+3 MV:6"

IT: Low

AL: Lawful/Evil AT: 1, DM: 1·12 THACO:14

Special: Hits inflict rotting disease, causes Fear in a 60~foot radius unless a save is made; can only he hit by magical weapons, which do half damage; unaffected by Sleep, Charm, Hold, and Cold-based spells; not affected by Poison or Paralyzation,

(70) ghouls

AC: 6, HTK: 2D8 MV:9"

IT: Low

AL: Chaotic/Evil

AT: 4, DM: (1-3)(1·3)(1-6) THACO: 13

Special: Paralyzation by touch; not affected by Sleep and Charm spells.

(50) wights

AC: 5, HTK: 4D8+3 MV: 12"

IT: Average

AL: Lawful/Evil AT: 1, DM: 1-4 THACO: 15

Special: Immune to Sleep, Charm, Hold, Paralyzation and Cold-based spells, only affected by magic or silver weapons.

(5) wraiths

AC: 4, HTK: 5D8+3 MV: 12"/24"

IT: Very

AL: Lawful/Evil

AT: 1, DM: 1-6 plus energy drain THACO: 15

Equipment: One wraith holds a crystal ball that sees who stands outside the bronze doors-of Verdaise,

Special: Can only be hit with silver weapons (half damage) or magical weapons.

(1) spectre

AC: 2, HTK: 7D8+3 MV: 15"/30"

IT: High

AL: Lawful/Evil AT: 1

DM: 1·8 plus 2-Ski II level energy drain THACO: 13

Equipment: Death Horn (see Magic Items)

Special: Unaffected by Sleep, Charm, Hold, and cold-based spells; + I or better magical weapon to hit.

(50) dwaroen slaves, Skill 0

49

The BROODING DRAGON

T· his next section is an adventure for 4·6 characters from Skill level 6-9; clerics in this adventure should be at least Skill 7. IL is set in the heart of the land of Verdaise and i ncl udes encou nters and events in vo I ving many of the special features that are covered in the previous sections of this book.

PLACING VERDAISE in an ONGOING CAMPAIGN

Any regio.n tha~ is heavily dwarvish in population will be a perfect place for Verdaise. Here, the Great Catastrophe is assumed LO have happened about a hundred years ago, but you may adjust the amount of time between when the Catastrophe occurred and the present Lime in your campaign without losing its flavor.

During your current campaign, you can issue reports of a great disaster in the dwarven lands or your characters could rest at an inn in which a troubadour recounts the tale of the "Woeful Land of Woldham." Even an encounter with a troop of undead legions would lead the player characters on until they could Iind Roguestead and carryon £rom there.

I BACKGROUND HISTORY

50

A mid the chaos and death of the Great Catastrophe, a few dwarves made a stand against the new rulers of their land; these dwarves were the predecessors of the freedom-fighters known as the Bzontras.

The dwarves' great treasure hoard survived tbe explosion of Mount Ironhead.lts great magical properties also protected a few hardy souls. At first the dwarves spent time repairing (he damage to the treasurehoard. Then they formed ranks and marched to their deaths, defending their land. Not one su rvi ved and the secret of the dwarven hoarde lay buried in the ash of Verdaise.

For forty years that was true.

Though the liches have searched for decades, they have not found the treasure hoard. This honor fell to a Rigold miner named Fallon and his party of dwarves. Whjle studying to be a cleric, Fallon began to trade in arms with the dwarves to make a living when his Rigold finds were low. Fallon's mission and allegiance were nOL known, nor were they questioned. He spoke little and his stem, drawn face encouraged few to attempt conversation. Fierce and aloof, he was a friend of no one in a land that was not his own.

Picking about in [he broken rocks, Fal-

Ion literally Fell through the weakened roof of the main chamber. As if in a dream, he and his compatriots beheld the magnificent wealth that remained intact beside the broken rubble.

Fallon was quite resourceful. He patched the hole he made in the treasure vault roof. H then carefully marked the surrounding area. With a few gold trinkets in their sacks to prove their find, the adventurers left the area intending La come back with a Iullfledged expedition.

No matter where you go in Verdaise you can meet undead. Fallon's party met them on me cold dusty morning the day after their rind. Escape seemed futile. From every direction the rigid rows of skeletons met memo In desperation, Fallon and his group picked the weakest part of the undead's formation and attacked.

Surprisingly, the dwarve broke through. His men scattered while Fallon stood like a rock, hoping LO provide time for a few of his party to escape. Fallon' brave stance was short-lived. Rows of skeIetons closed in around him; ga ping and cursing, Fallon fought them off. Then, [rom behind the ranks, a robed figure ordered the skeletons to spare Fallon's life. This figure wa the Lichlord Nightbay.

In defiance, Fallon swung at the figure, only to su-ike thin air. With one deft move, the figure struck with his own 'word and

An Adventure

leanly severed Fallon's left arm,

After mat, Fallon' compatriots [led.

They do no! know what happened to him ..

In the weeks that followed, the [act that Fallon's arm bad been severed aved him from becoming a victim of religious cerernonies-Nigtubay felt that Fallon was not worthy of being offered to Dierguih. Instead, Fallon was chained at the ankles and neck and served as aslave to rebuild the caldera as Verdaise, Kingdom of the Undead.

Nearly I year later, a group of the traitorous Dwarfengs (which means not of the duiaroes in dwarvish) visited Verdaise with dwarven prisoners La trade. One of these Evil dwarves found out mat the miner FalIon was also a well-skilled cleric and Iigh ter, Nigbtbay paid well for this inforrnauon and set Fallon aside to be sacrificed, for he needed Fallon's Skills to fertilize his Fleshly Garden of souls - whether Fallon was maimed or not. (See the Fleshly Garden description on page. 37 [or rnor deiails.)

When the Dwarfengs returned to the trade city of Roguesiead, news spread that Fallon was alive. To a young dwarven Bzorura named Pfingsten, this news was particularly interesting.

It was Pfingsten's uncle who stumbled on La his doorstep man ths before, bleeding and weary, to tell how the miner had saved the uncle's life and found the dwarven treasure. BUL sadly. the old dwarf died before he could reveal where the treasure was hidden.

Until this incident, the great treasure was considered lost forever. With Pfingsten 's story. however, new hope blossomed. Fallon was ali ve after all; he was the only one who knew the biding place of the dwarven treasure. Yet, hope turned quickly o despair, for it became known that Fallon was a prisoner in me heart of the undead kingdom.

An emergency meeting of the freedomfighting Bzoritras was summoned and it was decided that a group of adventurers must be hired to free Fallon and find the treasure. It was a difficult decision choosing who was to go on the mis ion, because many of the young Bzontras begged to go themselves, but their priest-leader refused LO let them go. He had heard that ightbay had developed a new "brain-drain" powder that allowed him to read the minds of his captured rebels. Should one of the Bzontras be captured, they would divulge too much critical informatiorr=-such as the intricate pathways within the lava tubes of Verdaise

0, someone else had to accept the quest-adventurers with no knowledge ol the Bzontras or their operation. And it had to be soonl

VERDAISE CALDERA

SCALE: 1 hex" 2 miles

51

LAYERS' INTRODUCTION

TRADING

in ROGUESTEAD

Although it is dangerously close to the Kingdom of the Undead, the town of Roguestead offers clever adventurers a quick way La make money. Bartering is swift and the merchandise varied. Food, trinkets, gems, weapons, and slaves are favorite commodities but even magic items are sold-if the right deal is made and the adventurer knows where to look. The best deals are often made behind dosed curtains OJ; in shadowy alleyways. This is a town of mercenaries, pickpockets, and tradesmen, each one trying to outsmart the other.

The town is buill on the rugged foothills of the Dvegar Mountains on the banks of the Ash River. Stone archways connect rows of small whitewashed buildings. Coun iless narrow alleyways wind and tw is t throughout the city, which is filled with pitched tents and open stands. Minimal privacy is available behind each stand's long curtain of animal pelts. Permeating the dense, heavy air is the stench of sweat and rotted food.

The following encounters happen one after another. A one encounter ends, simply continue on and read the next players' information section.

•••

Read the following to the players:

After finishing a successful adventure, your party is passing through Roguesiead on its way southwest.

It is rumored that a great fire sword is up for sale, as well as a ruby-studded mace. As you maneuver through the winding aUeys and streets, you pass a heavily armored dwarf standing on a wooden block shouting, "Bodies for sale! Useful as slaves, husbands, or uiarriors!" Behind him sit two weary human men and a dwarf, burdened within heavy chains. Their eyes are cast down as they listers to bids from the crowd.

A t the crowd's edge is a man unfolding a long carpet. filled with bright-colored stones and gems. He smiles a toothless grin and calls out, "Precious jewels for sale!"

.. "

52

GM NOTE: The jewels Simon sells (costing from 2 sp-lOO gp) are all worthless bits of glass. As he bargains with passersby, he will also attempt to pick pockets.

(1) Duiarieng slaoer, Skill 4 fighter

ST: IS, IT: 12, IN: l2 SM: 16, DX: 14. AP: 10 AC: 4, HTK: 4DlO MV:9"

AL: Neutral/Evil AT: I, DM: 1-8 THACO: 15

Armer and Weapons: Chain mail, Short sword

Equipment: Shield, pouch with 25 gp, 15 sp, 14 cp, rations, 2 boules of good mead, and a Philter of Persuasiveness.

Simon Euerloose, Skill 2 human thief ST: 13, IT: 14. IN: 13

SM: 15, DX: 17, AP: 15

AC: 8, HTK: 2D6

MV: 12"

AL: Neutral/Evil AT: 1, DM: 1-4 THACO: 16 Weapon: Dagger

Equipment: leather armor, small pouch with 6 gp 12 sp and 4 cp. Special: Pick Pockets: 35%; Move Silently: 21%; Hide in Shadows: 15%; Climb Walls: 86%.

•••

Read the following to Ll1e players:

In the shadows beneath a high arch is an open lent. A tall bearded man stands in the tent opening, looking at the throng of passersby. Behind him is a table cluttered with swords, daggers, and shields. As your party moves toward t he len t, two short ro bed fl:gures approach from the shadowy archway, blocking your path. Their faces are hidden beneath the heavy robes and one speaks to your party, 'There is nothing in that tent worthy of your money. But I can offer you gold and glory. Are you interested?"

. ...

GM NOTE: If the two robed figures are asked to identify themselves, they will only say that they are messengers from the local priest, who requests audience with the party.

(2) Dworven Bzontras, Skill 4 fighters AC: 8, HTK: 4DlO

MV: 12"

AT: 1, DM: 1-6 AL: eutral/Good IT: Average THACO: 15

Weapon: Bumtra lasher; on a roll of 18-20 on a ID20 a save us. Poison must be made (from the lasher's fangs).

If the party follows the robed figures. read the following to the players:

The robed figures lead you beneath the stone archway and into the back alleys. You pass more peddlers, beggars, and slave dealers as the winding alleys tsk» you deeper into the heart of the city. The odors of roasting animal flesh float through the open doorways, making the alleyway hazy with smoke.

Turning a corner, the robed figures enter a small whitewashed hut. 1 t is empty except for a large table filled with food. At the head of the table sits another hooded. figure, beckoning you to join him. As you approach he casts off his hood, revealing a beardless dwarven face horribly mutilated with scars. He wears a necklace made of

snake fangs and golden beads.

"The food is good," he says lifting a large leg of mutton to his mouth. The two figures go to the dwarf'S side, their faces still hidden beneath their dark hoods.

As your party sits at the table, the dwarf continues.

GM NOTE: Try to read the following speech while stuffing food into your mouth. Don't strain yourself, but give the impression of someone who doe n'i often get a good meal. 'Stage directions' are given in bold italics {like this}.

"Your arrival in Roguestead was revealed to me in a dream. I sent my faithful watchers to search the toum for you. [Pretend to wipe your sleeve on your mouth.].

"My land is Woldham, now called Verdaise. For generations, my family sewed as keepers of the Sacred Treasure - the heart and pride of our race. But the undead came and the land was filled with shooting rivers of lava - the treasure was thought to be lost [oreuer.

"But there is hope. Last week, rumors spread through Roguestead that Fallon has been a slave in Verdaise; he knows the treasure's location. He has lost an arm and has grown weak, and the foul Lichlords are planning to sacrifice him. If he dies, all knowledge Of the treasure's location will be lost.

[points to ployers.] "To save him, you must enter Verdaise and free him from the Lichlords' prisons. Once he is released; dwarven freedom-fighters will provide you with shelter in our secret tunnels.

"As your reward, you will each be given 30,000 gp and your choice of any item jrom the treasure. Fail, and I will pray for your souls."

GM NOTE: If the characters accept the challenge, hand them the crudely-drawn map on page 53 that shows a linle-known entrance into Verdaise. The location of the prison camps is marked with an ·X'.

"Return to this town with the treasure and rny watchers will find you. But / caution you, speak to no others. We are ronstantly surrounded by idiots, saboteurs, and potential assassins."

"Free Fallon!" [Raise-your voice - give it a big finish.] The dwarves wi II bel iellf you to. be gods - warriors who dared III face legions of the damned to return am sacred treasure. Songs will be sung for "1 011,' great statues will be built; your names will be long remembered.

Y£RDA1S1

VERDAISE

THROUGH the GAP in the CALDERA'S RIM

If the characters agree LO the dwarf's t rrn ,the tWO hooded dwarves will lead them LO the southern base of the caldera and then swiftly depart, Before the party is a narrow pathway leading into Verdaise.

....

Read th following information to the players:

Hidden in the charred underbrush is a nanow footpath that slopes toward the lava at a 30-degree angle through. a long, deep crack in the caldera's rim. Rivers Of lava flow directly west of the footpath and also flow six feet below it, emptying into a deep fissure at lhe footpath's western base. Trails of steam spew from the fissure and fade. into the gloom hovering around the caldera.

....

Because of the sudden and unpredictable wind currents in the narrow shaft (caused by the rising heal of the lava river and the cold wind of a mountainous region) characters who fly must save vs. their DX every round they move, If they fail. they will be buffeted against the side wall of the crevice and take I DB HTK of damage. In addi (ion, any hand-held item will be dropped,

The GM should warn the players of the danger or the characters flying before they enter the passage.

Use the map on page 55. Entering the Land. for this encounter. The letters on the map refer to areas and events below. A.:; the characters enter the crevice and pass these points, read the following to the players:

AREA A

To the east of the path, black walls of sheer roc k jut sharp /y upward, piercing the gray sky. mall openings in the rock wall are visib le at approximately 70 feet straight upward.

Off in the distance is a strange sight; uihai looks like a thir: curtain of mist covers the far end of the crevice. A boue the, noise of the lava river below you hear the faint tinkling of chimes.

. . ..

Each character must save vs. OX here or Iall £rom the steep wall. Anyone [ailing

54

will tumble over the path into the lava, taking 806 HTK of damage per round spent in the lava. A save vs. SM must be made; a successful roll will result in the falling character sustaining half the damage. Those failing the save will take full damage each round. IL will lake the character(s) 2 rounds to climb out of the lava river.

The openings in the stone wall are empty caves; the largest of which goes back three feet.

AREAB

The pathway twists and turns deeper into the great steamy gap in the caldera rim. The curtain of mist has changed; it looks like beads on a string now. You can hear the chimes louder than before.

AREA C

Red paintings can be seen on the eastern wall. They depict two six-foot tall stickfigured humanoids standing side by side.

• • •

There is also one pain ling on the western wall thai is concealed beneath the foot path. (Show the players the illustration of the Blood Spirits on page 20.)

These are Blood Spi rits. When an adventurer moves within five Ieei of the first Blood Spirit on the east wall, it will animille and attack.

The second Spirit on the eastern wall will not attack until someone moves within five feet of it. The Spiru below the path will not attack unless someone tries to climb down the wall alongside the path to escape the other two Blood Spirits.

(J) Blood Spirits

AC: 4, 2,0; HTK: 5DS MV:24"

AL: Neutral/Evil IT: Variable

AT: 1, DM: [1-6][I-B] [I-IOJ THACO: 15

Special: Needs + lor beuer rnagicweapon lO hit. Magic resistance of 30%.

The Blood Spirit attacks with one hand and the damage it does causes an infusion of its blood into the body it attacks. Once a victim takes 25 HTK of damage, the viclim's body is taken over by the Spirit. The victim's original soul leaves the body and may return only if an Exorcism spell is cast, in which case the Blood Spirit is immediately killed. Once the body is reclaimed,

it assumes the characteristics and personality of the person before possession.

Blood Spirits are only affected by +\ or better magic weapons. They are so cold that if hit by a non-magic weapon, the cold is tran ferred through the weapon, doing 1-4 HTK to the wielder. In the same way, i [ the Spirit is hit by exposed flesh, the a tracker takes 1-6 HTK of damage [rom the cold .

Cold, Sleep, Charm, Hold, and Paralyzation-type attacks will not harm these monsters. Blood pirits can detect Invisibility and have a magic resistance of 30%. They may be turned as a wight.

AR.EA D

As you approach ihe curtain, more ash covers the foot path and the wind losses the fine particles of ash in the air, making visibility difficult. As you approach the final stretch of the caldera gap, you and your party see an enormous curtain thai stretches from. an elevation of about one thousand feet up to the base of the lava flow.

The curtain consists of thousands oj skulls and heads in various states of decay. Some of them are animal skulls but mosl are dwarvis h. They are all pierced at the top and bouom where a rope has been slipped through and knotted. In between the skulls are various hides and skins all branded with the symbol of a vulture holding a skull in its beak.

There is writing carved into a largl hanging hide.

" " ..

If a character is able to read the writing, which is in dwarvish, it says; "All thos: who pass enter a land where death's hand clutches theirs on a journey with no end."

PASSING THROUGH

THE CURTAIN I

Anyone who passes through the curtain mUSL save VI). Paralyzation or be permanently afflicted with arthritis in his weapon hand while inside the land of Verdaise. The arthritis will cause each afflicted character to incur a penal, ty of -2 to hit, The character will onl y be able attack Wee rounds per turn before dropping his weapon. A character mal' use his opposite hand with the appropriate non-proficiency penalty for his character class (see standard rule books),

Ooly leaving the land of V erda ise will cure thi afflicuon. Each lime a cursed character re-enters the land, he or she will suffer from arthritis with no save allowed.

T

:I :I

'r ~

f

AREAE

Beyond the curtain of skulls, a strong swirling wind lifts ash from the basin, obscur.ing vision and giving an eerie backdrop to the rugged caldera. A sea of bones sticks out of the sot: ground; some oj the bones aTe covered with a heavy layer of black ash and others are while and nobby like pebbles scattered across a rocky beach.

GM NOTE; Any clear pathway ends; movement is halved because of poor footing.

Rising oul of the swirling as h, about 100 yards Jrom you, are six basalt pillars. Each one has five motionless bodies hanging on chains Jrom the top. Each pillar is 80 feet high and 15 feet in diameter. The stones are smooth and slippery [rom the ash.

The chains holding the dangling humans are looped over iron spikes pounded into the top. As your party passes beneath the pillars, one of the chains breaks and a body plunges to the ground. The dried skull breaks open. A broken arm seems 10 reach desperately into the empty air, then collapses onto the bleak, ash-laden terrain.

.....

Only a thief (or a character with wall climbing abilities) can scale the fluted basalt columns, which are also known as hoodoos. They are hollow inside and provide safe - iE not ve.ry comfortable - lodging.

AREA F

Rising from the hills of ash beyond the pillars is a sheet of solidified lava in the shape of a wave. Fine particles of ash blow off the crest like mists ott the sea. A low moan can be heard near the formation.

... -=

The rock formation is the result of a volcanic ejection ora huge piece of rock with a molten shell. When the rock landed, the shell sudddeni y cooled in a wave-like form.

• ••

If characters investigate the moaning sound, they find:

T he skeletal remains of Jive dwarves hang [rorn long spears that are plunged into the ground in a circle. In the center of the circle is a dwarf lied to a black cactus. He is stripped to the waist and his head is slumped forward. His chest is bleeding from deep cuts. At his feet is a small pile of bloodied rocks. To the right of the cactus, approximately 20 feet away, is a so.iitary yucca plant.

• *'.

The dwarven skeletons are the remains of five Bzontras who were captured by the Mistress of Sorrow (the Lichlord Darselai) and put to death. The body Lied to the cactus is. that of a Rigold prospector, Grady Mikel. While searching for Rigold, Grady was caugh l, tied to the cactus, and left to die by Darselai and her undead patrol.

As a form of torture, the patrol took sharp rocks and cut Grady's chest until the

56

blood from one cut revealed a Rigold gem. The undead destroyed the gem and departed, leaving Grady to be finished off by the Yucca Aberration (see the New Monsters section).

Grady will be alive but unable to speak when the party finds him. He'll have 0 HTK and will be on the brink of death. Only quick action will save his life; three rounds from the time he is sighted is all the time he has left to live.

G'Tady, Skill 3 fighter

ST: 14, IT: 13, IN: 14 SM: 12, DX; 14, AP; II AC: 8, HTK: 3DlO MV: 12"

AL: Neutral/Good

A T: I, DM; 1-6 (pick axe), 2-5 (hammer), 1-4 (shovel)

THACO: 20

Weapons: pick axe, hammer, shovel

If Grady is released, read the following to the players:

The blood-soaked body falls to the ground in a Jit of coughing. As he lies on the ground, vomit oozes from his mouth and he passes out.

As you reach doum 10 bind the man's wounds, three vines with human heads growing at the ends shoot out of the ground and attemp; to grasp you.

~ ...

The vines, which are part of the Yucca Aberration, attack with Surprise,

In Grady's vomit is a small blue gemstone of Rigold (not yet activated) that Grady swallowed before being captured by the undead. Grady will come around in two hours if he is healed. He will remember that he vomited and will want to know where he did so, telling the party to search for a blue gem. He will only discuss the gem's properties if he is asked.

If Grady is questioned about the land, he wi 11 tell the party to avoid the area near the ba rhol i th (Region II) as it is surrounded by undead patrols. He is very knowledgeable about the area and witl gladly divulge information on how to find water as well as other tips about the flora. and fauna of the area. He knows about things such as the healing abili lies of the yarrow plant, how to make nettle ale, the uses of the lava lizard's skin. He will also caution about the deadly fire snake. (Refer to Flora and Fauna of Verdaise for statistics and information on these.)

Grady will want to leave Verdaise .

(1) Yucca Aberration (see "New Monsters" for complete description)

A C: 5 for each run ner: 2 for main body; o for each head.

HTK: 3D8 for each runner; 5D8 for main body; 2D8 for each head.

MV: 0, except for the runners, which have a 40-foot radius from the main body.

AL: Neutral

IT: Non-

AT:.3 un less the mai n body is attacked, then 9 runners will return to defend and attack

DM: 2-7 for each bite; runners do no damage - they JUSt capture prey THACO: 10 for each runner, 15 for head (same as a 12 dice monster). Speciai: Immune to Sleep, Charm, Hold, mind affecting spells, and spells against plant life; takes half damage from normal fire.

This creation is a combination of a desert yucca and strawberry plant with human heads growing at the end of the long runners.

The runners of 'these plants are submerged underground, aw-aiting the passage of live beings. Whenever a humanoid passes over the ground, a runner shoots out, coiling around its victim wh.ile the monstrosity attacks with its mouth.

To successfully grab a victim, a hit must be made. Next, the Aberration attacks with its head-biting and chewing.

The main body has no defenses by itself but aU runners will return [Q defend it. Severing the ru nners is the best way to kill a plant.

The Yucca Aberration is an undead and the runners can be turned as mummies, causing them to drop their prey.

PENTRATING THE HEART OF VERDAISE

There are continual dangers once the characters enter Verdaise, If the characters follow the quickest path (shown as doued line on the dwarven map) it will take them about 3 days of hiking to reach the prison camps. During this time there are 6 planned encounters (outlined under (he heading, Perilous Meetings).

Should the characters not follow WI dwarven map and attempt to reach the prison camps by another path, they will be in constant peril (refer to the Random Ell· counters section; roll six times per da)· rather than three until the characters reaea the prison).

Unbeknownst to the characters or the Bzontras, the great Lichlord Nightbayal. ready has repons from.his spies in Ashlaed enthat something is going 00. He is fol· lowing the progress of the party, nving m find OUt where they are going. Because of this, he has stayed his hand in destroying the party. However, to test their mettle, he has not told his normal patrols of their presence. He wants to see if the party can penetrate into his land and how powerful they are.

To spy on the party, Nightbay has givm orders to some of his undead rhar me imd· ligent, such as spectres and wights, to keep track o( the party's whereabouts. He hal ordered them to remain inconspicuous ;rnd not to attack: just to observe.

Once a day, each party member should roll against his IT. If a successful roll is made, then thai player character will notice that the party is being followed, However. none of the characters will see any of the "spies" [or along enough ti me to be able to

lind and aua k them.

STAYING ON THE PATH

Should the characters not follow the dwarven map and auempt to reach the prison camps by another pa th, they will ta ke a great chance of getLing lost. E very day they deviate from the dotted line, they could get lost. The chance of being lost is 35% (only 20% if a shire-folk is in the party) minus their highest IT scm-e.

When lost, the party loses a day and travels in a random direction on the map. Roll I D8 for direction.

DIE ROLL DIRECTION

I north

2 northeast

3 east

4 southeast

5 south

6 southwest

7 west

8 northwest

If they travel j n any eastern direction, the pany ha a 50% plus their highest Intellect score in regaining the correct path.

PLANNED ENCOUNTERS

There will be three planned encounters during the party's trek to the prison. The first wilJ automatically happen four hours after the party enters the land. The second happens if they spend the night on the dormant volcano, and the third when they pass the Fleshly Garden neX110 the prison.

FIRST ENCOUNTER

Read the following four hours after the party enters the land:

There is a low moan of! in the mist.

Then. silence. A moment later, dozens of zombies appear in the fog. They are covered with a fine greyish-white dust.

(JOj zombies

AC: 8, HTK: 2D8 MV:6

AL: Neutral IT: on-

AT: I, DM: lD8 THACO: 16

The zombies' bodies are covered with Brain Dust (see New Magic Items). Any su cessf ul strike against a zombie with any weapon will cause the dust to be dispersed into the air. Anyone within a 10-£00tradius of this area must roll his IT or lower (using 3D6) or be afflicted with the Brain Dust. Anyone who fails to save is mind linked to NighLbay. The Lichlord can now read that character's every thougbr=-including' his location, intentions, etc. Without some magical means La determine the nature of the dust, the character will not know that he is linked to NighLbay.

The Brain Dust continues to work until all traces of the dust are thoroughly washed off the character's body.

SECOND ENCOUNTER

Read the following to the players if the characters spend the night on the dormant volcano:

You are encamped on the mou'nlain. It is cold but you can't afford the risk of a fire. Shivering in your coats, you huddle together for warmth. Suddenly, you see a shimmering glow appear in mid-air, then it disappears.

• ••

The party might panic, run away, turn invisible, whatever, it doesn't matter, After they have reacted, read the following to the players:

The shimmering begins again. This time it is in the form of a bejeweled dwarf dressed in golden armor. In his hand is a warhammer that shines very brightly, He says nothing, just stands there obsetuing you.

•••

Any dwarves in the party will instantly recognize the figure as an avatar (manifestation) of the God of Dwarves and will begin bowing (no save). The rest of the party is on its own. Any magical ten of alignment wiJJ register Lawful/Coed. If the party attacks, the image wiJI instantly disappear. If they do nothing, try to speak to the avatar, or show signs of respect, the avatar will speak:

1 am the soul of the Mountain lronhead that once stood here. Now it is gone but those like myself remain. I do not know what quest your party is already on but 1 sense that you are on a mission for Good. 1 request tha! you grant me a boon.

•••

II the party agrees to help the god, he will smile and hand one of the pla yer characters (GM's random choice) a huge gem. Continue reading to the players:

"This is a mountain seed. Giue it to the dwarves that still hide out in this region. They will know how to plant it and nurture another mountain."

•••

The mountain seed is a fabulously expensi ve gem, worth 1,000,000 gpo Lf a Good cha racter tries to take it, be will undergo an alignment change La Cbaotic/NeutraL If

the party turns it over to the dwarves, each party member will be rewarded with an additional 10,000 experience points from the God of Dwarves,

THIRD ENCOUNTER

Read the following LO the players when the characters pass the Fleshly Garden:

Your party passes a long field that is neatly plowed in furrowed rows. Stone footpaths lead to the center, where a short dirt chimney smokes continuously, Beside the chimney stands a red-stained stone block. Wandering around the perimeter of the field are 20 mummies, each wearing a small amulet of gold.

igbtbay performs daily noontime rituals in the Carden,

(20) mummies

AC: 3, HTK: 6D8 +3 MV.: 6"

IT: Low

AL: Lawful/Evil AT: 1, DM: 1-12 THACO: 13

Equipment: Golden amulet of resistance to normal fires (works only on non-living creatures)

SPecial: Hits inflict TOtting disease, causes Fear in a 60-EoOl radius unless save is made; only hit by magical weapons (for hall damage); unaffected by Sleep, Charm, Hold and Cold-based spells; not affected by Poison or Paralyzation.

This is ightbay's Fleshly Garden and is the main center for religious worship and sacrificial offerings in Verdaise, For further details, refer to the area description of REGION II_

57

THE PRISON OFVERDAISE

The prison is directly north of the Fleshly Garden. The terrain here is particularly blasted and windblown. There are few landmarks except [or the Garden and the prison. Towards the east, [he ridge of Inselberg and the volcanos rise above the ever present ash.

If the characters go direct! y to the prison after they have slept on the dormant volcano, they will ha ve a 100% chance of encountering The Sacrijice (see section below).

The prison is a Ll-shaped wall of stone, 15 feet high. See prison diagram on page 59. As characters approach, they see the folLowing:

The prison is enclosed by a Usshaped wall oj basalt blocks that is 15 feet high and 4 [eetthich, On eit her side of lhe entrance is a large round orb thai is 6 fee, in diameter. Enc ircling the orb is a glistening light tiuu appears like pale gems flickering with a while sheen. Rising from opposite sides tu the rear of the curuing wall are two dark turrets. No guards moe visible.

oil< or. ..

If characters get within 50 feet of the prison, they can see that the row of glistening gems Oil the orbs are actual! y thousands of eyeball s. Anyone who comes within 40 feel of the orb will be seen (unless invisible). These eyes [unction as a "security system" along with the large crystal eye in Nighthay's left eye socket. By using the eyes to case OUt the area lor living beings, Nightbay will be aware of any possible threats. Once the eyes spot a character or are auacked, the Prison Escape Troops will first appear in .') rounds.

Orb eyes

AC: 10, HTK: lIDS

Special: Can be destroyed by weapon or such spells as Blindness, Shaner. Dispel Magic, etc. Also can be turned as a I ich; in Lh is case the eyes wi II not function for as long as they are turned.

(31) Prison Escape Troops

30 Zombies and 1 Death. Dragon

Once these guards are alerted of an escape (usually through Nightbays eyeball amulets), the zombies will be ieleported from the batholith to the prison. The Death Dragon is summoned by Nightbay.

In 5 rounds: 30 zombies appear at the prison gates.

In 10 rounds: I Death Dragon appears.

The zombies' bodies are covered with Brain Dust in the same manner as the zornbies were in First Encounter. See that encounter for information.

(30) zombies

AC: 8, HTK: 2D8 MV:6

IT- NonAL:Neutra I

58

AT: I, DM: 1-8 THACO: L6

(1) Death Dragon

AC: -2, HTK: 2208 MV: 12"/24"

IT: Nil

AL: Neutral

AT: varies, DM: claws (1-12 x2), bite (3·32), horns (4-24), wings (6-60) THACO: 8

Special: (see New Monsters)

Penetrating the Prison Walls

If the characters emer the entrance of the pri son, they see:

Thirty feel Inside the V-shaped courtyardof ash, asmalllavamoat (12feei wide) laps up against the walls of Slone. A ladder is lying half hidden in the soft ground .against l he northern wall. On either side of the moat are dark stone turrets that ouerlook the rear courtyard. Beyond the moat in the far courtyard, windowless cages have been buill against the curved prison wall.

>Ii '" •

The cages are the prison cells. The only way into the rear prison yard is to climb over the walls or to walk along the top of the prison walls and enter the concealed doors into the turrets. One could Oy over the moat; however if a character fl iI'S within 20 feet of the moat, the heat rising from the lava will cause 3D8 HTK of damage (no save allowed unless magically protected).

The Sacrifi.ce

Read this to the pi ayers ani y if they are inside the prison or spying £rom above:

Two zombies approach the prison from the north. Slowly, they lijt th» ladder 10 the nothern wall and climb up to I he walkway. From there, they walk 10 a nearby turret and disappear through a secret doorway.

If the party waits for the zombies to return read the following:

The zombies appear carrying a dwarf wrapped 1n purple robes. He looks dazed and drugged.

If it is noontime, the dwarf is led to the Fleshly Garden. Lf it is dawn or midnight, the prisoner is taken to the Tower of Spell s where he and the guards enter its large arched doorways.

Inside the Turrets

Although the doorway into each turret is concealed from the outside, it is clearly visible from the inside. A winding staircase leads from the doorway to the base of the turret.

Another visible doorway opens into the prison yard from the turret. However, once a character is outside, the doorway back into the turret is concealed in the stonework unless its location is already known.

Th in arrow 51 i ts provide a vi ew of the prison cells in the rear courtyard. Standing guard in each turret is a wraith, wearing an amulet of a swollen eyeball that allows Nightbay to see whatever is in from of the wraith.

Hanging on a large hook is a covered basket. Inside the basket is a large key in the shape of a hideous serpent; its forked tongue forms the notched edge that fi ts into the key slot. Whenever the key is used, it transforms into a poisonous snake in 12 seconds. Any living being holding the key for longer than 12 seconds is au ioma tically biuen (save vs, Poison or die after 3 turns).

Once the snake bites a victim, it immediately turns back into a key. If the key is thrown into the basket within 12 seconds (before it has a chance to completely alter), it is transformed back into a key wi thi none round.

(2) wraith guards

AC: 4, HTK: 4D8, 5D8 MV: 12"/24"

AL: Lawful/Evil IT: Very

AT;· I, DM: 1·6 plus drains 1 Skill level THACO: 15

Special: Can be hit only with silver weapons (hal fdamage) or magic weapons (full damage).

The wraiths will investigate if they hear any un us ua 1 noises or if there is an y indicalion of an auern pied escape. Once alerted of any escape, they will immediately attack any escaped prisoner or intruder. Because of the eyeball amulets, Nighibay will also know what is happening and will dispatch 30 zombies (his Prison Attack Troops) to the gates of [he prison in 5 rounds (see statistics given at the beginning of the Prison section).

Inside the Prison Cells

When the party enters the cell area, read the following to the players:

The cells are filled with diuaruen, shire- 10/1(, eluen and human prisoners. Most 01 them are neaTly dead from suffocation (lack of air in the cells), staroouon ormutilation.

,.,."

None of the prisoners will answer to the name Fallon, except Fallon himself. FalIon is in the 8th prison cell. U this cell is ever opened, read the passage below entitled: Freeing Fallon.

In the 3rd cell is a recent addtrion-sa shire-folk boy captured in Rushbury Mound by a Dwarfeng slave trader ... on his way to Verdaise. The boy's parents, who are the members of the Rushburv Mound town council, will pay a handsome reward of 10,000 gp to anyone who returns their son to them aJ i ve. The boy dug in to the ash floor of his ce 11 a nd found a small fissure in [he rocks beneath.

If thecharacters enter the 3rd cell, read the following:

You see a small shire-folk child disap· pear into a fissure in the floor, which iJ

,.

/ r:h ~ rh rrn rt:1 \ r\

L . .J ~ LW L:J l~ , 1

he urre s ar e m aic. IIv

hel va ~oa

( ru ret

I 1- +r . VAMOrr

I_";;'; -( TI rret )

-I'-' V

ne "eSl !,!rn FiecHH dpOr! arE enl~re( f am he lIalk May bn t e YIi ails.

-!- - ......

~ \

I

,

,

r

I

iEye Orb

I

I

1

,

1

II

1\

/

:1 ami Ie TOOl s al !pea hel~.

r--..._

--_-

~

Ol ler ~OUI dar: of Eye prb ~Ig"

- - -

Secret Door from outside (door visible ~ MAP OF PRISON

~fr~om~in~s~ld~e~th~e~t~ur~re~t~) --~~~~-------------59

much too small for even an adult shire-folk to slip through.

.. " ..

The TO k around the fissure is too thi k to break apart, The shire-folk boy will reappear later in the adventure when the characters are in the Bzontra lava tunnels (lava Lubes).

Free.in.g Fallon

If one of the characters opens the eighth cell, read the following to the players:

A fain t violet lig ht glows here and a gray stench permeates the air. Four starving dwarves are hunched over in the center of the floor. In the jar corner sits a large onearmed man, his face bowed in meditation. As the purple light casts a thin glow across the cell, he lijts up his eyes and stares coldly at the character opening the cell door. Without hesitation, he leaps to his feet and leveling his gaze on the nearest fighter he demands, "A weapon! I need a weapon!"

The pure force of Fallon's presence is almost overpowering. The character must roll v . his IN on ID20 in order lO resist Fallon's formidable willpower. If he fails, he will hand his weapon over to Fallon immediately. If the weapon is an edged weapon, Fallon will tell the contributing character that, as a cleric, he must only use non-edged weapons. If the character saves, he can either give Fallon any spare weapon he ha or try to wiftly procure a blum weapon (or Fallon, If there are no nODedged weapons available, Fallon will pray for a dispensation from his deity so that he may use the edged weapon until there is another weapon available.

Using whatever weapon available, Fallon will join in any ensuing battle although he wields a weapon al-2 because of loss of proficiency during the lime of his imprisonment. The force of his presence intimidate even the undead, who hesitate to auack the one-armed man. Undead with les than 6D8 HTK must autornatically save vs. Spells or attack another person; all others save or attack Fallon.

''''ith Fallon are 4 dwarven slaves near dea h. Within the next few days, ihe dwarves will be- sent to the Cecrops as dinner. Only one of rhe dwarven slaves can walk on his own, at half speed at that; the others are tOO weak to stand.

Fallon, Skill 6 Fighter/Cleric

ST: 17 (+1 damage), IT: 15, TN: 16 DX: 10, M: 17 (+2 HTK adjustment) AP: 18

AC: 10

HTK: 24010 (when fully healed), !ODIO at present

MV:12"

AL: Chaotic/Good

AT: 3/2, DM: by weapon type THACO: 18 (including -2 proficiency loss [or using his left arm)

Clerical spells:

Skill 1 - Cure Light Wounds (x2), Purify Food and Drink; Skill 2 - Find Traps, Slow Poison, Silence 15' radius; Skill 3 - Create Food and Water, Cure Disease.

Fallon, who is known to the dwarve a.

Zum Tarbor (the Brooding Dragon), has no magical components. He has been using Cure Light Wounds and Create Food and Water spells to keep himself in decent shape after his months of slavery.

If Fallon is Killed

hould Fallon be killed in ihis adventure, read:

A.!' the weapon falls from Fallon's hand, he screams in agony as the ash around his feel shoots from the ground like geysers. As the cloud Of gray retreau to the land, Fallon stands consumed in flames. Rising trom the flames is a strange creature thai looks like a humanoid with uiings. As i! soars past, you see lhat. it is Fallon, reborn urith. Ole wirlgs of a dragon.

A great cloud shaped like an open palm reaches down [rom the violet sky and pul.ls Fallon in to the heavens. For a moment, the darkness 01 Verdaise is split by lhe bright rays of the sun and a high Light laughier floats on au; breeze.

•• 'I'

The right arm of the murderer who cast the kil'ling blow will bur limo flames (causing 3-24 HTK of damage). As the Hames die, the characters will notice that the fire has consumed the arm. All other who parti ipated in the killing will have the sign or the dragon permanently burned onto their right arms (causing 1-6 HTK o[ damage).

If Fallon is killed by undead, the party will automatically encounter Ernathri the Wild, Ieader of the Bzontras. HewiU provide any well-mannered characters with rood and safe passage through the tunnels (see The Ambush for Ernathri's statistics),

Once Fallon is dead, the Regeneration spell will be erased [rom me scrollcase within the dwarven treasure.

DISCOVERING the LAVA TUBES

If the party escapes, Fallon will tell the characters that they can find temporary protection in the hollows of the basalt pillars (also known as hoodoos) scattered throughout (he land. He will then swiftly depart to the northwest, assuming [hat the characters will follow. This leg of the journey will take 18 hours because Fallon will insist on helping any freed dwarves that are travelling with the party (roil 2D20 for number of dwarves).

During this particular journey, roll six times a day on the REGION n Random Even t Chart; Nigh tbay will wan t to test the group and see where they are going. In addition to the Random Events, there will be one definite planned encoun ter per area no matter where the party goes. Eight hours after the party leaves the prison, read Circle of Stones below.

Also, if any of the characters' minds has been read because of Nightbay's Brain Dust, Nightbay will gather a great host to capture the treasure (see The Trap Closes below).

Shou ld.characters explain that they were sent to free Fallon so he can recover the great dwarven treasure hoard, Fallon will show no response except for exhaustion. (He does not trust their mati ves.)

Fallon's first priority is to contact the dwarves. He will then try to secure the treasure. He will lead the party into a standing ambush set up by the Bzontras (See A Friendly Meeting below). If the party tollows him, they might have a chance to spot the ambush and become suspicious of Fallon.

Circle of Stones

Eigh l hours after the party leaves the prison, read the following tome players:

Keeping close to the formations of rocks and pillars to avoid detection, your party stumbles across a30-foot in diameter circle of six unevenly shaped volcanic boulders. The boulders rise from the ground to a hel:ght of about 8 feet. From urithin the circle, the soft sound of wind chimes can be heard.

.....

If any characters enter the circle of boulders, read to the appropriate players:

Inside the circle is a large reversed star. At each of the star's points, a Red Dragon scale has been stuckinto the ash. In the center of the star is a round container of glistening crystal that is two [eet high and four feet in diameter. Five frosted ll.mes (which look like the number 4 turned upside-down) are carved equidistant itiW the circumference of the crystal's dome lid.

Dangling from a rock that overhangs the pentagram is a mobile made from the bones of a small humanoid. From another overhanging rock is suspended a set oj wind chimes that make sweet music as it dances in the breeze.

The wind chimes are made from the hollowed finger bones of dwarves and have a soothing effect. Any character who enters the circle must save vs, Paralyzation or become hypnotized bythe soh tinkling of the chimes, staring in fascination at the swinging mobile. The spell lasts for as Iong as [he wind chimes remain tinkling (three rounds) and for three rounds alterwards. Breaking the mobile bas no effect, but destroying the wind chimes or holding them soundless will break the spell.

The crystal container is unbreakable (although the dome can be removed) and 100% magic resistant, The runes are traps of burning cold. Anyone who touches the crystal will be scalded by the cold (taking 1-6 HTK of damage). If the character's ha nds are bare he takes dou ble damage; the symbol of the u pside- dow n 4 will be burned into his palm. Magic can be detected on the crystal runes, which also radiate Evil if a Detect Evil spell is done.

The scales and star are used in the ritual 1O create a Death Dragon (see the Ceremonies of Creation section on page 19). Inside the crystal container is the living brain of a Red Dragon. The brain must be kept alive through rituals in order for the body of [he Death Dragon to survive. The brain has 25 HTK. Although no magic will harm it.the brain is automatically bit on any attack except a 'I '. It is possible for more than one character to attack the brain at the same time provided thrusting weapons are used .. If the brain takes as little as I HTK of damage, the Death Dragon must land.

•••

Eight rounds after characters see the circle of stones:

The peaceful music of the wind chimes is suddenly interrupted by the clanging of chains. Moving from the north and directly toward the circle of stones is a pack of 6 ghouls. Behind the ghouls strides a wight, which insures the steady movement of two shackled duiaroes. Each dwarf is carrying a heavy iron. pot. With an occasional smirk, the wight snaps a whip at the bare backs of the prisoners, who stumble under the weight of their chains.

... of

If the characters do not hide on the next round, they will be spotted. Instead of a ttacking the party, the wight will grab the dwarves and make motions indicating that he will ki II the capti ves if the party does not lea ve. By just touching the dwarves he will drain Skill levels. If the characters do not retreat immediately, one dwarf will be totally drained and nun into a halfstrength wigh t. One other dwarfhas 3 Skill levels left. If the wight is attacked, he will release the dwarf and fight.

(6) ghouls

AC: 6,. HTK: (3)2D8,. (3) 3D8 MV:9"

AL: Chaotic/Evil IT: Low

AT: 3, DM: (J-3), (1-3), (1-6) THACO: 13

Special: Paralyzation; not affected by Sleep and Charm spells

(I) wight

AC: 5, HTK: 5D8 MV.: 12"

AL: Lawful/Evil IT: Average

AT.: 1, DM: 1-4 THAGO: 15

Special: Skill revel drain; hit only by silver and magic weapons; immune to Sleep, Charm, Hold and Cold-based spells; not affected by Poison or Paral yzation

(2) dwarves, Skill 0

The captured dwarves are very weak and have 110 attack value. They wi1l be grateful LObe rescued. If the wight kills one dwarf the survivor will be Struuch (if he is still alive). Struuch is nOI a Bzontra: he is from outside of Verdaise, He is detailed on page 77. The pOLS the dwarves carry contain a paste made of Red Dragon blood, a Red Dragon egg, a nd crushed b uman bone. It is used for Nightbay's Death Dragon ceremony.

Nightbay Arrives

During the battle, if a character looks to the sky - and if the dragon brain has not taken any HTK of damage - he will see:

A great distance away a figure appears in the sky. As it flies closer you see that it is a skeletal dragon, wh ich is known as a Death Dragon, carrying a rider direcdy touiards the circle of stones.

. ...

The rider of the Death Dragon is Nightbay. He is going to the circle to see the group of adventurers that has violated the sanctity of his land. In four rounds, the dragon will reach the circle of stones, circling overhead while Nightbay laughs in a deep booming voice. If attacked, the Death Dragon will flyaway. Six rounds later, the dragon will be back and Join the melee without Nightbay.

If possible, Nightbay will avoid any battle with the party.

GM NOTE: Remember that as soon as the brain rakes 1 HTK, the dragon must land. If Nightbay is on the dragon, he will immediately teleport to safety. Also, keep in mind that if Fallon is killed, no one will be able to find the lost dwarventreasure.

•••

1£ the party has hidden and chooses not to engage in battle with the group of ghouls, dwarves,and the wight, the characters see:

A robed figure riding a skeletal dragon begins a swirling descent toward the circle of stones. As the figure dismounts, you see that a hood of black cloth masks his face. He walks into th» circle of stones just as the 6 ghouls, one uiigju, and 2dwarven slaves approach. With a bony hand, the Death Dragon's rider takes a red scale and immerses it into one of the iron pots carried by the dwarves. Taking the paste-covered

61

scale in one hand, he removes the crystal dome with his other hand. He then spreads the paste onto a pulsating mass of brain tissue that rests inside the crystal container.

When he finishes, a. crooked smile splits the darkness beneath the robed figure's cowl. Laughing with merciless abandon, he mounts th« Death Dragon and rides away.

.. ' ....

The robed figure is Nightbay. If the characters attack, Nightbay will teleport back to his Obsidian Palace in the bathoLith (in Region 11 of Verdaise), leaving the Death Dragon and the other undead to £ighl.

Nightbay, of course, takes no damage £rom the cold runes of the crystal dome.

Nightbay

ST: 14, IT: 18, IN; 16 DX: 11, SM: 1), AP: 9 AC: 0, HTK: J9D8 MV:6"

AL: Evil

AT: 1, DM: 1-10 THACO:7

SPecial: See Lichlord Council, page 7, for abiJities.

A Friendly Meeting

FaJJon will lead the party into this ambush because he does not trust them. During the march after the Circle of Stones encounter, casually tell the players that their characters nonce Fallon whispering to the dwarves. If the characters cast spells LO read minds, they will learn that Fallon plans to ambush the characters. One hour later, the party will reach the ambush.

The Ambush

You come across a clearing of hard rock.

One rock is lifted up, revealing a tunnel below. Fallon points to the rock and says:

"There is the entrance to a lalla tube. Go ahead while I bring up the rear."

•••

If the characters insist on Fallon going first, he willlaugb and say:

"Let us compromise. 1 will go with you scared liule rabbits."

GM NOTE: 10 feet from the entrance, the trap will be sprung. Fallon is not worried, because the trap consists of buckets of holy water that will drench the party. He wants

62

to make sure that the player characters are not undead. A Magic Mouth will also activate, alerting the Bzontra guards to the party's presence with a high-pitched whistle.

Read the following to the players:

As you walk towards the entrance, you are suddenly doused in liquid. Fallon draws his weapon and, in one deft motion, stands apart from your party in a defensive position. Suddenly, there is a high-pitched whistling noise coming from the direction of the tunnel entrance.

*' *'.

Since the party is (most likely) not undead, no ODe will be harmed by the trap. Fallon (who will put away his weapon and fight only to subdue if attacked) will tell them he had to do this. At this point, read the following:

Appea1"ing at the entrance is a beardless dwarf. He smiles a toothless grin. "Welcome to Woldham, kingdom of the Dwarves." Staring deep into the eyes of Fallon, the smile dies on his face. "Zum Tasbor," he says softly and bows on one knee before Fallon.

.. '"

If Fallon was killed, but the characters need healing or assistance the toothless dwarf, Ernathri the Wild will help. The GM should continue with this encounter, eliminating any references to Fallon.

•••

As if from nowhere, six armed dwarves appear behind you. Following the lead of the toothless one, they also kneel in reverence. With a light jovial laugh, Fallon takes the arm of the durar] and lifts him to his feet. It seems that as he smiles, his face becomes that of a younger, more carefree man. The other dwarves stand as the one before Fallon speaks again. "We welcome you. Yet for your own protection, we must blindfold you before you enter ou.r temporary shelter of the lava tubes. Nightbay's spies are everywhere. The less you know of where we live, the safer you'll be once you leave. "

II< '" II<

If any characters need healing, the dwarves will offer their help once everyone is inside the tubes. The characters must

enter blindfolded..li the characters consent, the dwarves will blind£old all except Fallon. L[ any characters resist, Fallon will offer [Q be blindfolded with the others. If characters still resist, the dwarves will refuse to lead them inside the lava rubes. Fallon, disgusted with characters, will go alone with the dwarves.

The dwarves will not enter the tubes if they are followed: instead, they will wait until dark when thev will he able LO fade into the ashy gloom without a trace,

If a battle ensues, Fallon will fight on the side of the dwarves.

(1) Ernathri The Wild, dwarf, Skill 16 fighter

leader of the Bzontras ST: 18 (+1, +2), IT: 14, IN: 15, SM: 17 (+3), DX. 16 (-2), AP: 15

AC: 8, HTK: 12010 MV: 12"

AL: Neutral/Good

A T: I DM: (1-6) Lasher (on ro I! of 18-20 on 020, opponent must save vs. Poison). (1-4) dagger

THACO:5

Weapons: Bzontra lasher, +2 bow, seven +1 silver-tipped arrows, dagger. Equipment: No armor, just a torn jerkin, Ring of Invisibility, Amulet of Proof Agai nsr Detection and Location, Potion of Extra Healing.

Ernathri the Wild is the leader of the Bzontras, He was appointed leader with the dying breach of Griswold II. The old king had been impressed by the way the dwarves rallied to Ernathri's seemingly foolhardy battlefield prowess.

Ernathri's tactics did appear foolish, but they worked when the dwarves were not overmatched by the sheer numbers of undead. It seemed that unusual ideas worked very well against the programming at the mindless undead.

(5) Duiaruen Fighters, Skill 8 A C: 7, HTK: 8DIO MV:12"

AL: Neutral/Good IT: Average

AT: 1, DM: (1-6) lasher, (1-4) dagger THACO: 14

Weapons and Armor: Studded leather armor, Bzontra lasher, Dagger Equipment: rope, holy water (2 vials each), 2 jugs of high quality Bzonrran ale made from the Nettle plant, I Chain of Manifestation, 7 Candles oC Beinder (see Magic ltemsi.

(1) Dwarven Thief, Skill 10 AC: 8, HTK: IOD6 MV: 12"

AL: Neutral/Good

AT; 1, DM: 1-6 lasher, 1·4 dagger THACO: 16

Weapons and Armor: Bzontra lasher, ivory dagger made from tusks of war mammoth (+3 against undead), leather armor

Equipment: Thief tools, potion of gaseous form, I use of green war paint.

INSIDE THE LAVA TUBFS

Assuming the adventurers have agre d to beblindfolded by the dwarves, read the following to the players:

Your!;arty is led along the stony ground into sudden and complete darkness. After many twists and turns through what seem to be long corridors, you stop. The blindfolds are removed and as your eyes get accustomed to the torchlight, you find that you are on a rather wide pathway that .llopes downward at either side. The damp olivine walls are rounded and the low ceiling is curued.

The leader=Ernathri the Wild-is sitling on a pile of furs while one dwarf is bU.ly slicing rations of smoked quail and another is preparing medicinal salves and potions. The torchlight penetrates only a short distance down the dark corridors. No other dwarves can be seen.

The healing aids are now administered.

There are 8 bottles of healing porionseach cures 1-8 HTK of damage. There are also 2 onrainers of Healing Herbs. This healing sal ve will cure a wound cornpletel y if spread on the injury.

. .. '"

Once me healing aids are used, read the following to the players:

You begin to relax. Suddenly, Ernathri leaps up and readies his lasher. The two other dwarves quickly extinguish their torches and wait in silence.

After a moment, you hear a SOft tapping sound coming from down the corridor. Emathri whispers "I see nothing with my infrauision. Tza [nee! It must be undead!" He lights a torch and hands it to one of your group's fighters. Grinning, he says, "Take some of your friends and prove your worth. "

........

Fallon remains with Ernathri. Of the two dwarves, one is a fighter with 8010 HTK and the other is the thief with 1006 HTK (see previous section, The Ambush, for their statistics).

The noise is coming from 40 feel down the corridor tram me other side of the secret door. If a character moves closer toward the source of the noise, he will notice that the lapping ound grows louder.

•••

Whether a character detects me secret door and open it, or if the party simply stands by the wall where the door is, the door will open inward in two rounds. If a player character doesn't open me door, the shire-folk boy will open it from the other side. A trap will then be released that squirts 2 quarts of holy water in a lO-foot radius.

•••

Read the following to the players:

A door in the wall opens inward. As you are drenched in a cold liquid, you see a

small shire-folk child stumble from behind the doorway .. He slips in the liquid and begins to sob wildly. You see a glowing dagger in his hand.

The boy is the same shire-folk child (he is 10 years old) who was kidnapped from Rushbury Mound by the Dwarfengs to sell to the undead, He escaped from his prison cell by squeezing through a small fissure in the rocks.

The boy's parents, who are town council leaders in Rushbury Mound, have offered a $10,000 gp reward for his safe return.

The fissure from the prison cell that the boy escaped from leads to a narrow tunnel that opens into the lava tubes. The shirefolk boy discovered a dwarven skeleton in the tun nel. He took a + I dagger and a gold ring with a small milky-blue gemstone from the skeleton. (The stone is Iully enchanted Rigold.)

Shire-folk child

AC: 10, HTK: 108 MV: 12"

AL: Lawful/Good

AT: I, DM: (2-5) +1 dagger THACO: 19

Weapon: + I dagger

" ......

Continue reading to the players:

You hear Ernathri laughing behind you.

"You needed a bath anyway!" he says. Fallon joins in merrily.

" ....

After this bit of jocularity, Ernathri will notice if any characters have Nightbay's Brain Dust on their clothes. (The holy water turns the dust into a foul-smelling red gel). With the help of Fallon's Create Food and Water spell (he will only need to create water at th is lime), the characters can cleanse themselves.

Nightbay's Attack

The characters spend an uneventful night in the lava tubes. The next morning, they are again blindfolded and marched through the tubes by the arne dwarves as the night before. Nightbay suspects that they are in the lava tubes and has sent a cohort of his undead legions to destroy the party and recapture Fallon. The attack will take place at midday in a certain area that the undead have prepared for some time (see the Lava Tubes map).

The undead have dug tunnels down into the Java tubes. As the party passes the first of the Bzontra's secret tunnels, a signal will go out. Two melee rounds later, the undead will pour out of their tunnel attempting to block the path of the adventurer's party.

Remember that the party members are blindfolded. You may even actually blindfold the players, or simply request they close their eyes. After this, read them the following:

. " '.

You hear a crash, then a shuffling offeet.

The duiarues cry out: "Skree! Shred" and Fallon calls out, "Draw your swords and prepare to did"

At this time, the dwarves will tell the player characters to hurry and remove tbeir bli ndfolds, The party then sees rows of skeletons armed with various weapons.

The undead wiJl advance in 1 wo waves.

The movements of the first wave is shown on the diagram. It will take them one round [0 form. TIle two groups will then advance toward each other to capture the party between their ranks.

Each skeleton or each group 01 '20 Archers will fire one arrow per round at random character .

he second wave of undead troops consists of 100 Fourth Rank Skeletons. They will lake four munds La form groups ol five ea h and will rush LO any weakened areas of the line and act as a second lin e of de f ense. Roll a IDS [0 see how many groups of five will attack any characters that break through the rnain skeleton tine.

GM NOTE: For more information on Ranks of Skeletons see page 10 on the Undead Legions.

(80; First Rank Skeletons AC: 7, HTK: ID8 MV: 12"

AL: Neutral

IT; Non-

AT: I, DM: 1-6 THACO:20

(100) Fourth Rank Skeletons AC: 6, HTK: sns

MV: 12"

AL: Neutral

IT: Non-

AT: I, DM: 1·8 THACO: 16

(40) Archer Skeletons AC: 7, HTK: JD8+3 MV: 12"

AL: Neutral

IT: Non-

AT: I, DM: 1-6 THACO: 15

(J) wight commanders AC: 5, HTK: 708 MV: 12"

AL: Lawful/Evil IT: Average AT.-!, DM: 1-4 THACO: 15

SPecial: Energy drain; hit only by silver and magic weapons; immune to Sleep, Charm, Hold and Cold-based spells: not affected by Poison or Paralyzation.

The wights will not attack unles the party tries to break through the line. The skeletons will avoid harming Fallon. None of the undead will move through the holy water trap area. The undead will follow the party through the concealed door, but not off the map.

All the dwarves know where me holy water trap and the concealed door are but they will want to stay and fight. It will be up to the players and characters LO con vince the dwarves to flee.

63

64

I

1

* I (

Weak Ground Tremors

LAVA UBES OF VERDAISE

Entrance/Exit

rr~

?~) Holy Water Pools (Traps)

-r-

C Concealed Door

Path of Bzontras with party in Brooding ••••••••••••• Dragon adventure

Point where 'guided par~ el Its t' .~

b.', I" " .~~ ~"\I~

r:!u '" InTI TI:~ "... "hnr.

tl pn a f the .... av f Tul ~es (pr Li ~va" lunn ~IS).

I

I

66

I_.EA VINGTHE TUBES

By night, the characters are taken outside of the lava lubes on the Iar wes tern side of Verdaise, The Bzon tras wi I t not accompanythe party further; however, they will leave one trained Rompo for each adventurer and two addi tional Rompos [or carrying the treasure. (See New Monsters for description of Rompos.) No amount of protesting will persuade the Bzontras to take charge of the shire-folk boy. Ernathri chuckles, "Perhaps he will be useful yet."

The Bzontras plan a diversion to take attention away from the western corner of Verdaise while the adventurers search for the place where Fallon found the treasure. Although the diversion will not last long, it is intended to allow the party enough lime to find the treasure and perhaps escape through the southern gap in the caldera's rim. The Bzontra's plan is this: arrack the Fleshly Garden with the hope of destroying all the disgusting bulbs.

I. SEEKING THE TREASURE 1

As the party moves towards the landscape dotted with countless basalt pillars (hoodoos):

Facing tlu: cou n.t less pillars, Fallon sighs heavily, "The land has changed. 1 know Ihe treasure is neaT oneo] the hoodoos. Bu.1 which onel"

Leading up to the hoodoos, your party must climb in between numerous boulders and roc ks. Steam f70m the nearby lava lake creates heavy clouds of hot mist, bathing the jagged rocks in sheets oj white.

_. • 41!

The Loose stones make walking di£ficul L and the party member with the lowest DX will lose his footing and tumble LO the ground. He will find himself staring into the faces of four frightened human children-two girls and two boys-clutching each other and huddling in the crevice of a rock. Their clothes are torn and their faces are streaked with tears and dirt.

GM NOTE: Note the location of the treasure vault on the Region I map (page 34). Fallon will go directly there.

The character who tripped must roll again vs, his DX or suffer from a sprained ankle, halving movement for a day.

The children can be coaxed out from under the rock by pleasantries. They will tell the party they were kidnapped by a skeleton with a large marble eye and that they managed to escape.

In truth, these nasty' children are the Offspring of Nightbay. He placed these children throughout the land after he found out about the prison break through his spies. Nightbay wants tile children to follow the party until he can gather a large host (see The Trap Closes).

(4) OffSpring of Nighthay AC:· 6, HTK: lD8+2 MV:9"

AL: Evil

AT: 2, DM; (1-12), (1-12) THACO: 18

SPecial: When hiL with holy water, noxious fumes are produced. Characters wi thi n 10 feel must sa ve vs. Paral yzation or become nauseous for2D4 rounds; [he affected character will fight at -3 duringthai time. A Detect Evil spell does not work on them. They are immune to Sleep, Charm, Hold, and other mind-affecting spel Is (see New Monster section on page 23 for complete description.)

The Offspring of Nightbay skulk around Verdaise. They seek out Rigold miners and other living beings to kill them by attacking with surprise. In this case, they will surpnse anyone who is vulnerable-par' ticularly if a character is asleep or alone.

The shire-folk child tells you that there is something wrong wilh the children and says, "The children don't play right." He then says, "Please build a fire. They feel so cold."

'" '" '"

If a player character touches a child, he will notice that the child is unusually cold. If the character mentions it and then looks or acts as though he suspects that the child is undead, there is a 95% chance that the child will attack immediately ..

If no one in the party has noticed tha t the shire-folk child's ring is Rigold (and has not taken ill, the Offspring of Nightbay will immediately detect it and attempt to steal it. If reprimanded, [hey wilJ run off and pout, only to come back a short while later and try again. If reprimanded again, tbey will hiss and attack with surprise - their eyes glowing Jed and their flesh scintillating with an irridescent gleam.

II a character (or Fallon) has already taken the shire- fol k child's Rigold ring, the Offspring wiIl attack to kill the character with the ring as soon they can do so with surprise. In the meantime, they will act very grateful and friendly- especially toward the wearer of the ring.

DISCOVERING THE HOODOO OF RICHES

IL will Lake all day for the party to Lind the pillar. During this time, roll for one event on the REGION J Random Euent Char I. Any enco un ter with Bzoruras wi I I be friendly and they will tell the party that large numbers of undead have been seen march i ng into the la nds, They will also sa y [hal the auark against 'the Fleshly Garden has encountered stiff resistance.

!If ••

About an hour after the encounter, read the following to the players:

Examing Ike pillars, you move closer to the bone bridge and the lava lake. Fallon remembers aloud thai the hoodoo he seeks has a large hole blasted out oj its side, "Like this, Uncle Fallon?" asks the shirefolk child.

The child is pulling himself up to the rim of a large hole in the pillar oj black stone. His [eet dangle above Ihe ground as he peers into the darkness.

.1/1:.

Any person who comes within a 5~foot radius of the hole and weighs 100 pounds or more will activate a pit trap, (The shirefolk child is tOO light to set the trap off by himself.) At the bottom of the 20-foot pit are spikes of sharpened stones that have a THACO of H. Anyone falling into the pit will be impaled by ID6 spikes, each causing 2-7 HTK of damage.

Once the pit trap is discovered or triggered, the shire-folk child will be able to hold onto the rim for tWO rounds before falling .. Looking into the hole of the pillar, the bottom cannot be seen. U a lil LOrch is dropped, characters can see that the ground is approximately 45 feet below.

The roughly hewn walls of the inner hoodoo can be easily climbed by a thief character.

When the characters go in to the hoodoo, they see the following as they reach the ground: You are in a dark and dank corridor 10 feet wide wilh palhways leading north. and south. The ground seems to vibrate softly, causing loose stones Jrom above to occasionally tumb Ie down. Fallon says, "I don't remember any oj this. Someone has gotten to the treasure!"

Just then, the sounds of pounding and clanking come from the north passageway. The souin passageway continues only 10 feet, w here it seems to come to a dead end at a stone wall. At the bottom of the stone wall is a small hole thai is slightly larger than a helm.

The characters have two choices. They can go to the north or to the south .. Each path is described in detail below. What they and Fallon do not realize is that the treasure area has been taken over by the undead for their dwarven foundries. They do not realize how dose they are to the great Dwarven treasure.

Down the North Passageway Read to the players if they follow the north passageway:

T he pathway meanders Jar seve-ral hundred feet. The [urther north you go, the louder Ihe sound oj metal upon metal becomes and the more the ground vibrates beneath. your feet.

At last, you turn a corner and stand at stone ledge. Thirty [eet below in a torchlit chamber are 10 dsuaruen slaves that stumble around as iJ ina trance. Four oj the

67

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- --.. ~
\ i"~ IIIIP"'" l.. -:.J) K ~ V /.7 .\
~ I'" 0 ~
... .....;;.- 1
I-
i" ~ ( ,.... li ~ ~
~ J ~
" ._.
j....--.
-I _, r-- ~ f b( ~
I~ 'hI nor hel amJ er, • run ~/ac 'Per rt8e~ t: ra _A?
HOODOO OF RICHES
t P rll ~cn mm,y ....
dwarves are heating strips of metal; four The blades cover a 40-foot radius. (see previous reference); Sleep, Charm,
ar ti t metal stri into An onewithinthisareawillbebilb lDlO Cold and mind·affecLin s ells have more e bea ng he ps

blades. The last two dwarves are sharpening finished blades.

In the center of the room is a large cauldron of blood. A pool of lava bubbles up through a crack in the stone floor, causing the entire room to be blanketed in a maze of steam and mist. Above you, the roo] of the cavern narrows into a chimney-like pillar, open to the violet sky.

On the chamber jloo« 20 feet to the right of the ledge is a transparent figure resting upon a throne of blades. The figure fades in and out Of the mist like a cloud of steam.

Seven small children are harassing the dwarves with hot pokers. The children ani dressed in rags and their faces are covered with dirt. As one of them turns, you can see that half oj the child's face has exposed muscles and membranes.

•••

The children are more Offspring of Nightbay. They will immediately attack with surprise. alerting the spectre below.

•••

Read the following to the players:

A [iguxe rises from the throne as a chilling laughter echoes through the cavern. Then the throne of blades explodes, sending razor-sharp shards of metal streaking through the torchlight.

•••

68

y y

metal shards, which cause 1-6 HTK of damage each. The shards have a THACO of 13. The spectre will be unharmed because magic weapons are needed to hit him.

The OUspringofNightbay will join the

battle.

(1) spectre

A C: 2, HTK: 7D8+3 MV: 15"/30"

AL: LawfullEvil IT: High

AT: 1, DM: 1-8 THACO:13

Special: Drains 2 Skill levels per hit. Can only be hit by + 1 or better magic weapons, not affected by Sleep, Charm, Hold or Cold-based spells. not affected by Poison or Paralyzation. A spectre can be killed by a Raise Dead spells if it does not make its save v . Spells.

(7) Offspring of Nightbay AC: 6, HTK: 108+2 MV:9"

AL: Lawful/Evil IT; Very

AT: 2, DM; (1-12), (1-12) THACO: 18

Special: When hit by holy water, produces noxious fumes causing nausea

g p

,

no effect.

All the while, the dwarves (Skill 0) continue working as if nothing has happened. Unless a Dispel Magic is cast upon the dwa.rven slaves, they will not respond LO any stimuli. Should the magic be dispelled, the dwarves wi 11 be LaO weak to escape from the cavern without help. If they are helped [0 the outside, they will stumble towards the southern gap in the caldera.

Down the South Passageway

If any character sticks his bead inside the hole on the far southern wall, he will see:

Inside Ihe hole is a skeletal miner. He swings a pick axe in his bony hands. Amid the stench of decayed bones and debris are piles oj glittering gold and jewels. In the corner Of this room are seven empty sacks .

:to ••

The skeletal miner is a Hoodoo Man (see New MonsteTs).

Some of Fallon's men, dying from the auack by the undead, came back (0 ihetreasur' vault and sealed themselves in. Eventually. they became Hoodoo fen and have protected the treasure ever since. They will auack all except for Fallon. who they will stare at but not harm.

The character unfortunate enough to stick his head into the hole wi1l be slJ:uckby

the pick axe, automatically causing 1-12 HTK of damage from the glancing blow. The axe will bury itself in {he loose stone Ooor. The Hoodoo Man will not attack again since he will be trying to pry his axe from the floor.

The hole is only large enough for a shirelolk, a thin elf, or a human child to climb through. However. the hole can be eolarged in I D6 rounds using bl unt weapons, pick axe, or tools.

Once the characters are inside, re a d the [allowing to {be players;

The Hoodoo Man ignores theparlY as he tries to free its pick axe [rom. the ground. Pallon cries out, "Is that you, Penunisl" He stands before the struggling undead. The Hoodoo Man stops, stares at him, then returns to freeing his pick axe.

... ,,"

No spells or attempt at reasoning will bring Pentads back to his senses. During the melee, Peruaris' I wo Hoodoo companions will climb down the pillar as quietly as thieves. Seeing invaders trying to steal the great treasure, the Hoodoo immediatel y attack. If they successfully roll [heir Hide in Shadows, Move Silently, and Climb Walls ahili ties (see percentages below) they will attack with surprise.

(1) Hoodoo Men

AC: 4, HTK: 4D8

MV: 12"

AL:Neutral

IT: Low

AT: 1, DM: 1-4 shovel, 1-6 pick axe THACO: 15

Weapons: shovel, pick axe

Special: These skeletal miners can Deteet Invisibility. They can only be hit by silver or magic weapons; edged weapons do If damage. They can Move Silently (40%). Hide m Shadows (3 J %), and Climb Walls (90%) as Skill 5 thieves. See the New Monsters section for complete details.

THE TRAP CLOS.ES

Now tha t the characters ha ve discovered the treasure, Nightbav will dose his trap. He will release an entire legion (4,000 warriors) to recapture Fallon and the treasure. What he does not know, however, is that within the treasure is a special sword that can destroy his legion and possibly himself as well. This is the Holy Sword of Griswold, w hich can ani y be wielded by a dwarf or a human.

The mai n power of th e sword is its ahility to SId ke down scores of undead wi th an y hit; it needs to actually score a hit on a single undead to release its power. Otherwise, it acts as a normal + I sword (see New Magic Items for details).

One other item is especially important.

The Scrolls of AzUl", if read, will teleport any treasure not held by the player characters into another dimension. There it can

be retrieved by the dwarves by using the Mountain Seed U131 the party received hom the soul of the mountain, the god of the dwarves. If the Seed has been destroyed, the dwarves may still retrieve the treasure by having one of their clerics pray to the dwarven god.

Parry members will not be teleported by this scroll.

The Undead Arrive

For ID10 rounds after [he party has fought the hoodoo men they can go ahead and fill their packs with gold and magic items. If any character picks up the Holy Sword of Griswold and/or the Scrolls of AzUf, Fallon will explain what the nature of the items are to the character(s) who picked up either-one of these items.

Just as Fallon finishes explaining the Holy Sword andlor the Azur Scrolls to the appropriate characters, or after the characters have filled their packs if no one picked up the above- mentioned items, read the tollowing to the players:

You hear laughing from outside. You look out from the hoodoo and see ...

GMNOTE: Show the players. the Closing the Trap diagram at this time.

As shown on the Closing the Trap diagram, this great horde has surrounded the treasure opening to prevent any possible escape. Furthermore, Nightbay has cast a Dispel Magic on the party so it will be impossible to teleport out. The party must fight. However, this will not affect the Azur Scroll spell.

There are some weaknesses, however, that the player characters can exploit. Given here are some of those:

1. The First Rank Skeletons are packed in so tightly that they cannot move. They also prevent any reinforcement of the Third Rank Skeletons already inside the spear wall.

2. Nightbay is amused by the whole situalion. He is contemptuous of the party and its puny powers. He will not attack Ior quite a while, enjoying the antics of the player characters. He wi!! auack if the party tries to esca pe and will send ingrou ps of Third Rank Skeletons to close any gaps in the ran ks.

If the party retreats, he will laugh and give the player characters 10 melee rounds to surrender.

3. The foundry opening is beh ind the main line of skeleton spearmen and considerabl y closer to freedom. The characters will still have to fight the spectre and Offspring of Nightbay (see e a rlier encounter for statistics). If the characters use this approach they will have La right the War Mammoth.

.. ,.

Read to players after the intital shock has worn off:

You hear Nightbay laugh derisively, "Greetings hardy adventurers! Greetings

from the lord Nightbay![pauseJ

"Did you know that this is holy groundl You are trespassing and must leave at once .. What? My spearmen are in the way? WeU,

let me move them for you." .

GM NOTE: At this point, the first row of spear men on the west side move one space towards the party.

"Sorry! that was the wrong way. Well, neuer mind, you have 10 minutes 10 go, leaving the treasure behind!

The characters are on their own as to which plan they must use, Any plan using the Holy Sword will probably work, unless they go directly after Nightbay or they split up their forces. Fallon (if he is still alive) will want to fight but being in this situation before, he knows when to run,

If the party surrenders, it will be brought to the Tower of Spells to be sacrificed. (The Tower of S pe lis is described in detail under Region III of Verdaise.)

THE POWER OF THE SWORD

The Holy Sword of Griswold. has the power to disrupt and dispell large nu mbers of undead. J toni y works, however, once it has scored a legitimate strike on an undead opponent. Otherwise, the sword acts as a + I sword.

The power o( the sword is derived from a powerful ray of pure light. The Iorceiha t holds the undead in its present state of existence vanishes and the body crumbles into dust.

The sword wi U destroy any undead in its path. Once activated, the ray blasts OUt in a beam 40' wide, 500' long, and, 20' high, the beam lasts only [or an . instant and cannot be directed at spe-

ci fic ta rge ts. -

The number of undead destroyed by 1 he beam is de term ined by rolling 5D 10. These undead must be within the path of (he beam. The beam will always destroy undead closest to the sword's wielder first. For instance. there are 40 skeletons in han t of a wight. The beam will have destroy all 40 skeletons before it can attack the wight.

Undead with more than iDS HTK must save vs. Death Magic or be destroyed (even those affected by more than +1 weapons). Undead with mere than !ODS HTK are unaffected by the beam. U a dwarf wields the sword, the number of undead destroyed is increased to 6DlO.

The beam works every time an undead is struck. It will not affect any other form of Evil creatures in any way. The Sword has an 1T of 10 and can tell its wielder of its power. However, its wielder will not know exactly how

powerful it is. .

69

THE TREASURE HOARD

NOTE: hems 'in boldface are found in the New Magic Items section.

The treasure in the room consist of: .4,000 gp

.8,000 pp

• A glowing short sword with ancient dwarven runes etched into the steel and a star sapphire set in the end of rhe Lang (Holy Sword of Griswold) - worth 20,000 gp

• Gems and jewels - worth 200,000 gp

• Dwarven regalia - worth 120,000 gp • Diamond-studded ivory scroll case (worth 25,000 gP) holding the priceless Three Scrolls of AZUl:

• Bone croll case with clerical Scroll of Regeneration (unless Fallon used this spell). Remove Curse, Resist Cold, and Flame Strike - worth 1,000 gp

• Bone scroll case with Scroll of Clerical Cure Serious WoundS, Divination, Augury, Find Traps, Command, Chant, and Dispel Magic - worth 2,000 gp

I LEGION TROOP SYMBOlS I

This section explains the symbols found on the diagram on the next page.

First Rank Undead Lancer:

Each symbol represents three First Rank Skeletons, hese troops are packed into their space and cannot maneuver. They can only attack the space directly in [ront 01 them. These troop hav been ordered to hold their posirion and fill in any gaps.

First Rank Skeleton

AC: 8, HTK: IDB MV: ]"

AL: Neutral IT: on-

AT: I, DM: 1-6 THACO:20 Weapon: Spear

Third Rank Skeletons:

o

Each symbol represents one Third Rank Skeleton. These have a greater initiativ and have order t attack the group. They can move and close with the enemy, although the len Third Rankers inside the spear wall wi II not attack until the party attacks or they are ordered to by a a commander on an Ash teed. Other groups outside the pear wail have orders to attack anyone trying LO escape.

Third Rank Skeleton AC: 7, HTK: ID8+4 MV: 12"

AL: eutral

70

• Silver wand (Wand of Wonder) - worth 10,000 gp

• Rusted iron helm (Helm of True Seeing) - worth 8,000 gp

• Plain gold ring (Ring of Free Action) - 5,000 gp

• Sma 11 ivory wizard statue (Pontificus' Statue of Empathy) - 6,'000 gf)

• Four steel short swords (ordinary, non-magical)

• One ceremonial shield with a large emerald embedded in the center (nonmagical) - worth 2,000 gp

• A large crystal that hums so(uy (Crystal of Summoning Ectoplasmics) - worth 10,000 gp

• Miihril tube (Chime of Opening) - worth 20,000 gp

• Bronze Bracers shaped as a coiled snake (Bracers of Defense (AC: 5) There is a 50% chance per round in open hand combat that both bracers will bite the wearer's opponent with bronze snake fangs [TRACO: 15] causing J-4HTKin addition to any open hand damage) - worth 15,000 gp

IT: 00-

AT: 1, DM: 1-8 sword THACO: 16

Archer Skeletons:

Each symbol represen lS one Archer.

They have orders to attack anyone trying to e cape the spear wall, They will not move from their positions unless ordered to.

Archer Skeletons

AC: 9, HTK: ID8+3 MV: 9"

AL: Neutral IT: Non-

AT: 1, DM: 1-6 THACO: 16

Weapon: I how plus 40 arrows per Archer

War Mammoth:

The War Mammoth will not attack unIe s the party comes out from a foundary opening.

Ash Sreed:

Each wraith commander of the troop rides an Ash Steed. The commanders will not attack unless attacked by the party, although they will direct all troop movement.

(4) wraiths

AC: 4, HTK: 5D8+3

MV: 24" while on Ash Steeds or flying

• Short, human-sized silvery cloak with a simple brooch of silver (Cloak of DisplacementJ- uiorth. 17,500 gp • A velvet-lined box of four milkycolored beeswax candles (Candles of Beinder) - worth 800 gp per candle

• A set of small jars carefully arranged in a locust wood box (War Paints: 1 jar of each color) - worth 3,000 gp per jar

The only trap within the treasure is the diamond-studded scroll case thai contains the Three Scrolls of Azur. Any Evil person who touches the case sets off a magical trap, causing 4 diamonds to turn into needles of ice that ShOOl into the bearer's wrist, doing 1-4 HTK of damage each. The needles burrow beneath the flesh and causes a numbing that slowly spreads. Within 10 rounds, the person's enure side will be numbed and useless. (No save allowed.) The numbness Iasts ID4 days unless a Dispel Magic or a Neutralize Poison is cast or the person takes at least 15 HTK ol damage from any kind of extreme heat.

(! 2" on ground) AL: Lawful/Evil IT: Very

AT: I, DM: l-6 THACO: 15

Special: Drain 1 Skill level per hit: can onl y be struck by silver or magic weapons; immune to Sleep, Charm, Hold and Cold-based spells.

Ash Steeds

AC: -2, HTK: Not applicable MV:Z4"

AL: Neutral

IT: Non-

AT: I, DM: 4-24 THACO.16

Special: Any single hit causing B Or more HTK of damage will turn the Steed back into ash-otherwise no damage is taken: immune to Sleep, Charm, Hold or mind-affecting spells.

Nightbay:

Nightbay will direct opera tions as long as he is not personally threatened; he will teleport away i( a threat exists.

GM NOTE: Although tbey are not depicted on the map, there will also be three Death Dragons circling overhead waiting for any attempt at flight escape. They will automatically attack.

Basalt Pillars:

The opening to the Ioundary i marked in addition to the opening for the treasure.

A slight rise in terrain is depicted at the bottom of the map by slanted lines.

CLOSING THE TRAP

000 000 000 000 000 000 000 000

ESCAPE

If the player characters escape off the map, they will be faced with a dilemma. Which way to go?

What the party does not know is that Nightbay is so afraid of the sword that he refuses to come out of the batholith. The individual commanders are left to their own devices and have decided to block the main entrance.

The party can use the normal Verdaise movement map to reach the southern gap. Roll for normal events but with these exceptions:

1. All undead patrols will be of double strength. All will also have 5D 10 First Rank Skeletons.

2. All Bzontra encounters will be changed to No Event. The Bzontras are in the south creating a diversion.

3. 2D20 turns after any encounter with an undead patrol, a force of fast cavalry will attack. Tell the players that their characters feel a cold wind that picks up into the rumbling of hooves. Then rolllD~O to see how far away in game inches the riders are.

At night, the riders are:

(4) MOOnsCOUTges AC: 2, HTK: 8D8

MV: 24" while on Ash Steeds (12" otherwise)

AL: Chaotic/Neutral IT: High

AT: I, DM: 2·9

Weapons: long swords (+ I) THACO: 12

Special: Immune to Sleep, Charm, Hold and all mind affecting pells; cam only be hit by + 1 or better magic weapons; any character taking more than 70% damage of his HTK from the

Moonscourge will turn into a hornicidal maniac in lD4 days.

During the day, the rider-s are:

(8) wraiths

AC: 4, HTK: 5D8+3

M V: 24" while on Ash Steeds or flying (12" on ground)

AL: Lawful/Evil

IT: Very

AT: 1, DM: 1·6 THACO: 15

Special: Drains 1 Skill level per hit; can only be truck by silver or magi weapons; immune to Sleep, Charm, Hold, and Cold-based spells.

(8) Ash Steeds

AC: ·2, HTK: at applicable MV:24"

AL: Neutral

IT: Non-

THACO: 16

AT: 10, DM: 4·24

Special: Any single hit causing 8 or more damage will turn the steed back into ashotherwise no damage is taken; immune to Sleep, Charm, Hold, or mind affecting spells.

RETURNING TO ROGUFSTEAD

As you approach the walls of the city, two robed figures immediately greet you. They lea-d. you around the outside of the western wall to a boat on the Ash River. Resting in the boat is the scarred dtaaruen priest. Standing alongside the wall in the shadows are 12 heavily armored guards. men whojollow you 071.10 the boat. "Weare going to Oribrand," says the priest.

If Fallon is still alive read the following:

The priest bows to Fallon and addresses

72

the one-armed man. "Zum T'arbor, I assume? Welcome."

The boat lands in. a small dock outside of Oribrand. The treasure is inside the boat. The priest will pick up some of the gold pieces and examine them lovingly; he is holding his heritage in his hands. "Yes," he nods in wonder, "This is the trus regalia." As he sighs with joy, the scars on his face seem less seuere.

GM NOTE:lf the Regeneration on the treasure scroll has not been used ...

Slowly the durarueri priest picks up a delicate bone scroll case. "This is for you," he says to Fallon. Opening the case, he casts a Regeneration on the mysterious dwarf - giving him back his arm and making him Whole again.

Each party member is handed B leather sacks with 2,000 pp in each sack and their choice of a treasure item, H more than one character wishes the same item, the GM can decide who obtains the item by a die roll; the item goes to the highest rolling characrer. If none of the characters takes the Holy Sword of Griswold each character will also be given an authentic Bzontra Lasher ( ee New Magic Items).

If any character chooses the Holy Sword of Griswold, the priest will cry to get the character to select another item. Fail ing, he will offer tha t character two val uables from his personal collection - a 20-foot Chain of Manifestation and a Staff of Earth Fire (8 charges remaining; command word is Kobilak). These items can be used by any character class.

If a character insists on keeping the Holy Sword, the priest will explain that the sword is an important relic of the dwarves and offers the character 10,000 gp in addition to the two other treasure items. If the character sill] refuses, the priest wi II offer the character his own personal Ring of Djinni Summoning (1 charge ielt), If the character still refuses, the priest w ill say, "So be it."

Fallon asks only for SO gp and one small

uncut gem.

.. ..

At this point, Fallon wit! say:

Don't you understand, with this sword the}1 could regain the land of Woldham. Will you deny an entire people their freedom?"

....

If the character still refuses, Fallon will go off in disgust. There will be a coldness and Iormaliry in the way that the dwarves act toward that character. The priest will escort the characters off the boat, thanking them for their heroism,

As the characters exit onto the pier, dwarven guardsmen break into choru es of the party's great deeds. (If a character kepi the Holy word, he will notice that his name has been omitted from the songs.) GM NOTE: Characters will earn an addiIlona I 10,000 gp if they return the shire- folk boy. He is alive and well and will return to his family in Rushbury Mound.

RANDOM EVENTS SECTION

This section can be used either Ear the Brooding Dragon adventure or for your own campaign that is set in Verdaise. Of course, if you wish to do so, you may make up your own events in addition to or instead of the events given here based on the

EVENT TABLES

REGION I

ROLL 1·5

6·7

8·9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

ROLL 1-5 6·7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14 15-16 17

18

19

20

EVENT No Event

U Dwarven Corpses X Bzontras

Q Ash Storm S Earthquake

L Spectres/Ash Steeds Z Rigold Prospector T Hoodoo Men

A Two Skelerons/Rafleahia E Six Rompos

P Sleet Storm

o Yucca Aberrations R Undead Patrol

W Escaped Slaves

EVENT None

D Lava flow

K Slaves/Wraith P Sleet torm

BB Human Thief R Undead Patrol S Earthquake

T Hoodoo Men V Moonscourge W Escaped Slaves l' Merchant

Z Rigold Prospector AA Slave Trader/Slaves I Undead Patrol

information gi ven in this book.

To determine random events all these tables while the party is travelling through as pecilic region, roll three times a day (unless otherwise instructed in the adventure or regional descriptions) on ID20 on the

REGION II ROLL EVENT

1-5 None

6 B Undead Patrol

7 C Undead Patrol

8 F Undead Patrol

9 H Prisoners

10 I Undead Parra]

II J Dwarfeng/Undead

12 M War Mammoth

HI G Two Zombie

14 N Death Dragon

15 R Undead Patrol

]6 A Two Skeletons/Rafleshia

17-18 L Spectres/Ash Steeds

19 S Earthquake

20 P Ieet Storm

REGIONm

EVENT DESCRIPI'IONS

1

A SKELETONS/RAFLESHIA Two skeletons covered with Rafleshia spores fall from the rocks above. Because they are covered with the deadly parasite, each skeleton crumbles to dust after hitting the ground, releasing the Rafleshia spores in a 20·foOl radius. (For appropriate damage, see the Rafleshia's statistics below.)

Skeletons

AC: 7, HTK: 108 MY: 12"

AL: Neutral IT:Non-

AT: 1, DM: 1-6 THACO: 19

Special: Immune to Sleep, Charm Hold, and cold-based spells; half damage £rom edged weapons.

Rafleshia

AC: 8, HTK: lD8 MY: N/A

AL: Neutral

IT: Non-

AT: I, DM: See below

THACO: Automatic if fail to save Special: If the seeds land on a character and/or are inhaled or swallowed, they immediately begin to root in body tissues and burrow toward the bones. They grow quickly, causing 1-4 HTK of damage per round externall y and 4-24 HTK of damage internally. A save vs. Poison negates any internal damage. A Cure Disease is the only way to kill internal or external spores. Healing spells or potions have no effect. One vial of holy water applied LO external wounds neutralizes the parasite, limiting damage LO ]·2 HTK of damage each rou nd for 3 rounds.

B

UNDEAD PATROL

An undead patrol of 9 wights spots the party andauacks immediately.

Wights

AC: 5, HTK: 4D8+3 MY:J2"

AL: Lawful/Evil IT: Average

AT: 1, DM: 1-4 plus Skill level drain THACO: 15

pecial: Immune to Sleep, Charm, Hold, Paralyzation, or cold-based spells; only affected by magic or silver weapons.

table for the appropriate region below.

These events are in addition to those events that occu r at sped fic loea Lions within the regions or during the adventure.

c

UNDEAD PA TROL

An undead patrol of 30 zombies spots the party and attacks.

Zombies

AG.· 8, HTK: 2D8 MV:6"

AL: Neutral. IT: NonAT: I, DM: 1-8 THACO: 16

Special: Immune to Sleep, Charm, Hold, and cold-based spells.

'D LAVA FROM GROUND

A stream of lava spews forth from a fissure in the ground directly in front of the party (10 feet ahead). Each player character must save vs. his SM or sustain 1-20 HTK of damage from the lava.

E SlXROMPOS

A herd of six wild Rornpos are feeding on theremainsofa humanoid body tha t has been entangled by a yucca aberration. The Rom pas spot the party and attack.

(6) RQmpos

AC: 5, HTK: 2D8 MY: 12"/24"

AL: Neutral

IT: Low

AT: 1, DM; 2-8 THACO: 16

The Rompo is a large rodent that resembles a capybara without webbed feel. It is 4-(eel tall at the shoulders and hops like a rabbit. It feeds on rotting rlesh, but if there is lillie or none, it will not hesitate to kilJ its own fresh meat. It attacks with its jaws, tearing into the flesh of its victim.

F UNDEAD PATROL

A patrol of 20 shadows and 2 ghasts spots the party and attacks.

(20) Shadows

AC: 7, HTK: 308+3 MV: 12"

AL: Chaotic/Evil IT:Low

AT; I, DM: 2·5 plus Strength drain THACO: 16

Special: Unaffected by Sleep, Charm, Hold, or cold-based spells, + lor better magic weapons needed to lrit: 90% undetectable, except under very bright or magical light.

73

(2) Ghosts

AC: 4, HTK: 4D8 MY: 15"

AL: Chaotic/Evil IT: Very

AT: 3, DM: 1-4, 1-8 plus paralysis THACO: 15

Special: Immune to Sleep and Charm spells; cold iron causes double damage.

G TWO ZOMBIES

Read the following to the players:

You see what appears to be two men approaching in the distance. Their bodies are partially covered by membranes and flesh; most o] their [aces are skeletal. The)' appear to /)1' patting and caressing their bodies.

......

If the party takes cover immediately, the men, who are zombies, will pass the characters: they will be unaware of the party's presence.

If the party hesitates, they will see the characters and run away (they will not let anyone harm their newly-forming Ilesh.) The zombies are undergoing Nightbay's fleshly ri tuals.

H DWAR.FENGS/PRlSONERS Four dwarves (Dwarfengs) can be seen in the distance dragging 8 chained prisoners behind them -1 men, 3 dwarves and 1 shire-folk female. Accompanying the Duuujengs are 30 zombies and 12 skeletons.

" ....

They wilt not see the characters unless the party attacks first, The prisoners are all Skill o.

(4) Dtuarjengs, Skill 5 fighters AC; 1, HTK: 5DI0 MV:9"

AL: Chaotic/Evil

IT; Average

AT: I, DM: 1-6 THACO: 16 Weapons: short sword

I

UNDEAD PATROL

A pa tro I of I spectre and 16 skeletons spots the party and auacks,

Spectre

AC: .2, HTK: 708+3 MV: 15"/30"

AL: Lawful/Evil IT: High

AT: 1, DM: 1-8 plus 2 level energy drain

THACO: 13

Special: Unaffected by Sleep, Charm and Hold, or cold-based spells; + 1 or beuer magic weapons needed to hit.

(16) Skeletons

AC: 7, HTK: 108 MY: 12"

AL: Neutral

74

IT: Non-

AT: 1, DM: 1-6 THACO: 19

Special: Immune to Sleep, Charm, Hold, and cold-based spells; half damage from edged weapons.

J D WARFENG/UNDEAD PA TROL One Dwarfeng and <l patrol of 20 skeleLOIlS (TO, s the dunes far ahead and do nOL notice Lht' party. Four of the skeletons a re nil ry i II g, ('()11 ta i ners of food and wa ter. (See:' Event I for Skeletons' suu.isucs.)

Dwarfeng jighteT, Skill 1

AC: 4, HTK: 4010 MV:9"

AL: Chaotic/Evil IT: Average

AT: 1, DM: 1·6 THACO: 15 Special: short sword

The Owarfeng carries a pouch with 10- 40 gp, a gem worth 100-1,200 gp, and potion ol undead con trol (either zombies or skeletons).

K SLA VES/WRAITH

A procession of one hooded [igure and six dwarven slaves pass by when one of the slaves sees )Iou and cries, "Help us!" (The hooded figure is a wrait h).

......

This event can only occur at night. The slaves are all Skill O.

Wraith

AC: 4, HTK: 5D8x3 MV: 12"/24"

AL: Lawful/Evil IT: Very

AT: I, DM: 1·6 plus Energy drain THACO; 15

Special: Can be hit only with silver weapons (half damage) or magical weapons (full damage).

L

SPECTRES/ASH STEEDS

Two black-robed spectres pass by on Ash Steeds. They seem unaware of you.

.. ..

(2) Spectres (Same statistics as in Event I). (2) Ash Steeds

AC: -2, HTK: ID8 MY: 21"

AL: Neutral

IT: Non-

AT: 1, DM:4-24 THACO: 16

M

WAR MAMMOTHS

Nine dwarves riding large rodents are having trouble with their rearing mounts, Suddenly, the ground begins to quake and the frenzied

rodents throw their riders and flee.

Four War Mammoths rise from the ash.

Ten skeletons cling to the rib cages oj each of the War Mammoths. The skeletons leap from the beasts and attack the dwarves while two more skeletons in each howdah fire arrows. A wraith that gestures as though in command stands it! the howdah of the largest War Mammoth.

"" ..

The large rodents are Rompos. If a War Mammoth is down to 0 HTK it will retreat and head (or Inselberg. The wraith will accept surrender.

The War Mammoths have been buried in shallow ash-covered pits, wailing in kneeling positions for Bzonrras La pass nearby.

H [he characters do not interfere with the battle four Bzontras (including Cba:rl- see Special Non-Player Characters section) wil.l be captured and tied to the rib cage ofa War Mammoth. Two Skeleton Archers sit in the howdah and another eight skeletons walk alongside the beast.

Any character understanding the dwarven tongue can hear the dwarves' pained conversation, which concerns their fear of the Lichlord Darselai, The oldest dwarf, Chari, will rall y [he morale of the grou p by raising their hopes of being rescued. The wraith will lead me other undead southwest toward the ash dunes.

If the Bzon tras are sa ved by the party they will head to the limestone pillars to hide and check on the bodies of their comrades. They will help the party as much as they can without letting them know the location of the lava tubes.

If the characters spend time with the Bzontras, Charl will relay the story, which is detai led ill the Special N on- Player C haracter section, of his encounter with Nightbay. He has a Cloak of Turning (see New Magic llems).1f you are playing the adventure, the Brooding Dragon, he will present the cloak to the party if a character mentions their quest to Iree Fallon.

(4) War Mammoths

AC: 0, HTK: 14D8

MV: 9"/12" (running speed) AL: Evil

IT; Low

AT: 1, DM: 2-12 (tusks), 2-12 (stamping damage)

THACO: 10

Special: 50% magic resistance, impale for double damage on rolls of 19 or 20, stamps prone characters for 4·24 HTK of damage (double normal damage), immune to Sleep, Charm, Hold, and cold-based spells. (See New Monsters for details.)

(8) Bzontra dwarves, Skill 1 fighters AC: 7, HTK: 4DiD

MY: 12"

AL: Neutral/Good

AT: 1, DM :1-6 (also see Special below) THACO: 15

Weapons and Armor; Bzontra lasher, leather armor, shield

Special: For the lasher, on a roll of I 8-20 on I D20, the opponent must also save vs. Poison)

(40) Archer Skeletons AC: 8, HTK:·1D8+3 MV:12"

AL: Neutral

IT· Non"

AT: 1, DM; 1-6

Weapon; Bow with 40 arrows.

(1) Skill 14 BZQntra, Chari

(See Special Non-Player C haracters section for statistics).

N DEATH DRAGON

There are I D1 Death Dragons By. ing overhead.

During the day, there is a 10% chance of bei ng spotted from the air by a fl ying Death Dragon. This perce mage is the same at night - unless characters are within 40 feet of a lava river or lake, in which case they will nOL be spotted. There is 70% chance of being spotted regardless of the hour if any character is [lying at more than 60 Ieei high.

Death Dragon (see New Monslers section for complete description)

AC: -2, HTK: 22D8

MV: 12"/24"

AL: Neutral

IT: Nil

AT: Varies, DM: (1-12x2) claws, (4·24) horns, (4-32) bite, 6-60 wings

THACO: 8

Special: Can cause ice storm for 6·60 HTK in a 20· foot square area as often as 3 times a day; only hit by +2 or better magic weapon; edged weapons cause hall damage; flying creatures save vs, fear or flyaway; immune to Sleep, Charrn, Hold, and cold-based spells; magic resistance of 20%.

YUCCA ABBERATION

These deadly plants thrive near any lava [Jow (20-2,000 feet from the large lava lake and 5"500 feet from all other sources of lava). If the party is nOL near a lava flow treat this as no event.

The Aberration will attack with surprise.

Yucca Aberration

A C: 5 [or runner; 2 for main body; 0 for head

H TK: 3D8 for runners; 1 OD8 for main body; 1 D8 [or head

M V: 0 except for runners which ha ve a 40-foot radius from main body

AL: Neutral

IT: Non·

o

AT: 3"8 unless main body is attacked; then 8-13 (I D6 + 7) will return LO defend and attack

DM: 2-7 [or each bile, 0 for runners (they just capture prey)

THACO: 10 for runners and 15 for heads on runners

Special: Not affected by Sleep, Charm, Hold, and mind-affecting spells or spells against plant life; half damage from normal fire.

P SLEET STORM

A sleet storm occurs thai wil.l last 1 D4x30 m inures. During the storm, an y character who altern pts to move must save vs, his SM or become snowblind for as long as the sleet lasts.

The sleet will leave a frozen accumulalion of snow, which can be gathered for water, for I hour.

Q ASHSTORM

When an ash storm occurs, the party's visibility is reduced to ~ne fOOL In front of them. There IS a 25% chance that the party will become lost during the storm. However, if there is a shire-folk player character with the party, these chances are reduced to 15%. With the use of magic the party's chance of becoming lost is 5%.

R UNDEADPATROL

This type of undead patrol ineludes 1 wraith, 2 wights and 24 zombies. Roll ID4 to determine if the patrol sees the party. On a roJJ of 1-3 they do not see the party; on a roll of ':1: they spot the party and attack immediately.

(1) wraith

AC: 4, HTK: 6D8 MV: 12"/24"

AL: Lawful/Evil IT:· Very

A T: I, DM: I "6 pi us Skill level drain THA.CO: 15

Special: Can be hi l only by silver wea pons (half damage) or magical weapons (full damage): unaffected by Sleep, Charm, Hold, and cold-based spells,

(2) wights

AC: !'i, HTK: 7D8 MV: 12"

AL: Lawful/Evil IT: Average

AT: 1, DM: 1-4 plus Skill level drain THACO: 15

Special: Immune to Sleep, Charm, Hold, and cold-based spells and Paralyzation; only hit by magical or silver weapons.

(24) zombies

AC: 8, HTK: 2D8 MV:6"

AL: Neutral IT: Non-

AT: 1, DM: 1-8 THA.CO: 16

Special: Immune to Sleep, Charm, Hold, and cold-based spells.

S EARTHQUAKE

Read the following to the players:

You hear a rumbling sound tha: gradually becomes louder. The ground then begins to shake beneath you. A fissure suddenly opens up in the ground directly in front of you as you struggle to maintain your balance.

.,,"

Each player character must save vs. Dexteriry or fall into me fissure (which is IDIO feet deep) and sustain 2·16 HTK of damage. The earthquake will last for LDlD rounds.

T HOODOOMEN

Read the following to the players:

Four skeletal human figures are running toward you. The two atthe front of the group wield Pick axes, the other two behind them wield -a hammer and a shovel.

The skeletal human figures are Hoodoo Men (see New Monsters for complete details). They will attack the party.

(4) Hoodoo Men

A C; 8, HTK; 4D8 MV: 12"

AL: Neutral

IT: Low

A T: I. DM; 1-6 (pick ax), 2-5 (hammer), 1-4 (shovel)

THACO: 1.5

Weapons: Pick ax (which always goes last in combat), shovel, hammer Special: Edged weapons do half damage; holy water does 2-8 HTK of damage. Skill 5 Thief abjl ities: Hide in Shadows - 35%, Climb Walls - 90%, Move Silently - 40%

U DWARVENCORPSES Read to the players:

You see several corpses, which appear to be duraroen, direclly ahead of you.

Roll a ID8 for the number of corpses found.

V MOONSCOURGE

Read the follow i ng to the players:

Suddenly, a member of your party is grabbed. by a tall, black-haired man. With his dagger poised at the throat of your party member, he looks the rest oj you over with wild eyes. He laughs man iaca 11)1 as you react.

.....

The man, who is actually a Moonscourge, will attack with surprise.

Moonscourge

AC: 2, HTK: 9D8 MV; 12"

AL: Chaotic/Neutral

AT: I, DM: 1-10 (sword), ]·4 (dagger) THACO: 12

Weapon; short sword, dagger Special: +4 LO hit with surprise, backstab does quadruple damage.

Thief Abilities: Open Locks: 62%, Find/Remove Traps: 60%, Move Silently: 70%, Hide in Shadows: 56%, Climb Walls: 98%. Also has the ability

75

to turn its victim into a Moonscourge and to engage in a lunatic frenzy and to turn invisible. (See New Monsters section fOT details.)

W ESCAPEDSLAVES

Read the following to the players:

You see two emaciated dwarves walking toward you. One Of them is holding the other up. They see you and look frightened, but they do not try to run or attack.

The two dwarves are slaves who escaped Erom Ashlaeden. If any character speaks to them, they will beg the party over and over again to not let" the Slave Queen" of Ashlaeden get them. They will have no other information.

They are both Skill 0.

(2) Skill 0 slaves

X BZONTRAS

Read the following to the players:

You see five duiaruen [igures uralking toward you. As you pass them by you hear one of their: say to the others, "I] they're adventurers, 1 sure hope they knoio whalthey're tl1} against around here. They sure don 't lootc like slavers and if they show up around Ashlaeden , , ." The uoicr fades into the distance.

These are Bzorura dwarves. If a pan member asks information regarding the area .uch as dire 'lions, the dwarves will be cautious toward the party but will still b helpful. They will n t attack unl 5S attacked first. If a haracier asks about Ashlaeden, they tell the party that there are many ruthless slave traders and unsavory people in Ashlaeden,

(5) Bzonira, Skill 4 fighters AC: 7, HTK: 4D10 MV: 12"

AL: Neutral

IT: Average

AT: J, DM: (1-6) lasher, (1-6) short sword

THACO: 18

Weapons: BZOI1lra lasher. Short sword Equipment: holy water (2 vials each), rope, 2 jugs of Bzon iran al e made from the Nettle plant, 1 Chain of Manifestation.

Y MERCHANT Read to the players:

You see a young, clean-shaven man walking toward you. As you begin to pass him, he says, "Greetings, brave aduenturers.T'd like to interest you in some items you just can't do without. " He pulls 3 rings with blue gems set into them from a leather

76 pouch. "These rings are «u honest-to-

goodness Rigold!' he says with a flourishing gesture.

•••

The man, who is a merchant, will not attack the party unless be is auacked first,

None of the rings have Rigold settings, but he will charge 8,000 gold pieces per ring. The rings are enchanted to give off a m agica I dweorner to seem more convincing to potential customers.

He will advise the group to stay out of Ashlaeden and LO watch Out for the business proprietors. He will tell you that he was once given a strange drink in the tavern and and then robbed after he had passed out. He has no other information.

Rigold Merchant, Skill 2 human fighter

ST: ] 4, IT: 15, IN: 17 DX: 12, SM: 14, AP: 15 AC: 8, HTK: 2D10 MV: 12"

AL: Chaotic/Neutral AT: 1, DM: 1-4 THACO: 20 Weapon: dagger

RlGOLD PROSPECTOR Read to the players:

You see a stout but muscular bearded human busily digging a hole with a shovel.

•••

The human, who is a Rigold prospector,

will not attack the party unless they attack first.

IE a party member tries [0 talk LO him or ask him anything, he will disclaim any knowledge and gruffly order the characters to go about their business.

Rigold Prospector, human, Skill 2 fighter ST: 16, IT: 12. IN: 13,

DX: 15, SM: 14, AP: 12

AC: 8, HTK: .2DlO

MV:12"

AL: Chaotic/Neutral

AT: 1, DM: (1·6) pick ax, (1-4) shovel, (2-5) hammer

THACO: 20

z

Weapon: Pick ax, shovel, hammer

AA DWARFENG/ TRADER/SLA YES

GM NOTE: This event can only occur once.

Read to the players:

Commg toward you is a group of four sickly-looking dwarves that are chained together at the ankles. They are being herded along by a large, brawny human dressed in chain mail. As they approach the human sees you. He loudly clears his throat and spits on the ground. "All decked out fOT an adventure, ain't we?" he says. He snorts and laughs at what he perceives to be his own cleverness. "Hey, Cruenk, come look'it what we got here," he shouts to a stout, ruddy-faced dwarf, whom you now notice walking beside a wagon filled with dead bodies. The wagon is being pulled by [our more duiaruen slaues, to whom Cruenk barks out an order to stop.

As the dwarf moves forward to have a

look at your group, the human continues to taunt you.

The human, who is a slave trader. and the Dwarfeng Cruenk are on their way to (or from) Ashlaeden,

If the parry passes by without attacking, the humans and the Dwarterig will simply continue LO verbally harass the group.

If the party manages lO free the slaves, they will be [00 weak to travel too much further without assistance.

The eight slaves are all Skill O.

Slave Trader, human, Skill 4 fighter ST: 16, IT: 9, IN: 8

DX: 11,SM: 16,AP:6 <, AC: 5, HTK: 4DlO

MV: 12"

AL: Chaotic/Evil AT: l, DM: 2-8 THACO: 18

Weapon: Broadsword

Cruenk, (see Special Non-Player Characters section)

BB RUMAN THIEF

NOTE: This encounter can occur only once and only in Ashlaeden. If the party is in any other area in REGION [[I. or if this encounter has occurred already, treat this as no event.

Read the following to the players:

You are moving through the streets Of Ashlaeden when you hear a high, squeaky voice behind you, "Please, good folk, help me!" They have guards looking for me!" You turn around and see a short, wiry man with red hair. As he tries to catch his breath, he motions you ouer to a hiding place.

After glancing around to make sure that no one notices his presence, he pulls a blue gem from the leather pouch on his belt. "It's Rigold," he says. "I took it from this despicable Dwarfeng named Cruenk down at the tavern. He must have confiscated it from one Of the captured Bzontras. He was quite drunk and my thieving skills are not meager, but one of his flesh-dealer buddies happened to see me take it and called out for someone to summon the guards, Luckily, I was able to run from the tavern before any guards arrived."

•••

Provided the characters don't attack the man, he will introduce himself at this point as Samuel Cutslefe, "thief extraordinaire". He will then say that he was once new to this area as a young adventurer himself, Samuel will then ten the party that although he does not wish to discourage them from adventuring in Verdaise, he would like to [ell them of his experiences with the Lichlord Council. After asking the player characters if they could spare some time to listen, he will relate the story given in the Special Non-Player Characters section.

SPECIAL NON-PLAYER CHARACTERS

This section may help the Garnemaster fill in an adventure by providing local history or background information through a non-player character. Each character is listed by name, location of appearance, and story subject (if applicable).

Name: Samuel Cutslefe Location: Picking pockets in Ashlaeden or any crowded city of Western Duur.

Story: Information on Rigold and Lichlord Council.

Samuel Cutslefe, Skill 12, human thief ST: 14, IT: 12, IN: 11

SM: 14, DX: 16, AP: 12

AC: 5, HTK: lID8

MV:9"

AT: I

DM: 3-9 shortsword, 1-4 dagger. AL: Chaotic/Neutral

THACO: 16 (14 with short sword)

Eq uipmeru: + Ilea ther armor, +2 short sword, Ring of Fire Resistance

Samuel is short and wiry with tufts of red hair lucked behind his ears. He speaks excitedly in a high, squeaky voice.

The following is Samuel's account of his experience with the Lichlord Council:

"I was summoned by Darselai to speak. to the Council, for I knew of the entrance to the old Dwaroen city of Edruzeu. Dosselai wanted to know where it was because she though: it might be a Bzontra hideout.

"I really had no choice in the matter because one night, while I sat dining at a roadside inn, a rather pale-looking man engaged me in conversation. 11 was only when he smiled and I saw the sharp fangs of his teeth that I tried to run, but it was too late. His eyes were hypnotic; I had [allen under his power. He led me to his waiting carriage and we sped away into the night.

"After a long journey to the Dvegar Mountains, we came to a river of lava. We left the carriage and walked on foot, following the course of the river through a gap in the steep cliffs that rose above us.

Once we were through the gap, we mounted an enormous skeletal creature that took us to a slave camp. Here I was hung upside-down from a pole, my shirt stripped from me. Soon scores of horrible creatures gathered around. For a while, they taunted me by spitting or getting close to me so that I could smell their foul, rotting stench.

"Then a robed figure, whom I recognized as the Lichlord Nightbay, was carried in on a sedan chair and placed before me. He shouted a command and all of the creatures ran to a large bin thai was filled with pieces of black rock. They cut me with the

sharp edges of the ebony-colored rocks and watched a my blood flowed onto each rock.

"I couldn't understand why they were doing this until one of the rocks that they cut me with began to change. II started to smoke; when the smoke cleared, the Tack was transformed into a tiny gemstone, as blue as the sky on a cold winter's day. This gem was then handed to Nightba».

"My torture continued for an hour until I was nearly dead. 1 was cut loose and caged; shortly afterward, I passed out.

"When 1 auroke, I was laying in the cen· ter of a large pentagram. At each point of the pentagram, a robed figure sat upon a throne of blood-red rock. I recognized each one of them; they taere the members of the Lichlord Council. My right aTm burned from where a slice of skin had been removed from shoulder to wrist.

"Slowly, one of the robed figures approached. I could see none of its [eatures except for the skeletal hands that turapped a long thin piece of skin-whiclll believe was my own-around its forehead. The skin was decorated with strange writings.

"It 'Was then that the Lichlord began the interrogation. If I lied or hesitated to answer, the Lichlord touched its bony hands to the band oj skin on its brotu.Lmmediately, sharp pains shot through my head, and I felt as though wooden nails were being pounded into my skull.

"After I had given the in/ormation that the Lichlord desired of me, the Lichlord touched me and 1 could no longer move. I was blindfolded and led away. Later I was escorted out of Vetdaise, given a horse, and left to find my way back."

Name: Struuch

Location: Circle of Stones in the adventure, Brooding Dragon Story: Attack on Woldham.

Struuch, Skill 3 duiaruen fighter ST: 8, IN: 12, IT: 11

DX: 10, SM: 7, AP: 8

AC: 10, HTK: 2D8

MV:6"

AL: Lawful/Good AT: 1. DM: 1-4 fist THACO: 18

Tired and worn from his years as asia ve, Struuch is beru and badly scarred. His long, dark beard drags along the ground and bushy eyebrows nearly conceal his small, dark eyes.

I[ he is saved from the wight in the adventure, Brooding Dragon, he will be grateful. After drinking as much liquid refreshments as he possibly can. he will proceed to talk about his capture and the attack upon Woldham.

He will follow his rescuers until befriended by local Bzontras, who will guide him back to safety outside of Verdaise, The following is [he tale of Struuch, a survivor of me attack on Woldham_

"It started with the Death Dragons. They seemed to be dead and cold like winter winds. Suddenly, they turned and reared. They shook their wings; we Were then hit by a fierce storm of ice. Afterwards they Jlew to safety. Then, great masses of zombies and skeletons came through the caldera gap. I saw the great Lichlord Nightbay leading them. He was riding a nightmare that was decorated with bleached skulls and basded with ivory scales.

"With. just a stare he could give orders to his army; and the baule was soon 10 begin.

"We were still in shock from the explosion, but we had enough wits about us to recognize our plight. We fought valiantly in the face of terrible odds, but the thunderous footfalls Of the War Mammoth dispelled any hopes Of victory. Hundreds of these monsters began charging through the zombies and skeletons.

"Trampling everything in sight, the mammoths Touted us. I was lucky enough to escape throug h another gap in the caldera with a few others. Many of my kin and tuere not as fortunate as I."

Name: Cruenk Location: Ashlaeden

Cruenk, Skill 7 jighte1' [Duiarjeng] ST: 16, IT: 12, IN: 10, DX: 14, SM: 15 (+2 HTK per Skill level), AP: 13

AC: 5, HTK: 9D8 MV:9"

AL: Neuual/Evil

AT: I, DM: 2-9 battle axe, 2-5 dagger plus poison - save vs. Poison or die. THACO: 14

78

Equipment: studded leather armor, baule axe, poi on-tipped dagger, +2 Ring of Protection, Potion of Gaseous Form, smallleather pouch with 20 pp, 35 gpo 6 sp and a mall emerald wonh 300 gp

Cruen k is cons idered by man y of his race lO be a traitor because he deals in the flesh trade of slavery. He cares Iiule whether the race is human, elven, shire-folk, or dwarven. Because of this lack of loyally towards his own race. he has been named a Diuarjeng, (which means not of the dwarves) by the Bzontras.

Cruenk also sells wagonJoads of dead bodies in Ashlaeden to serve as new recruits for the undead legions. He (or a paid grave robber) exhumes these bodies from crypts and burial grounds.

In return for slaves, Cruenk receives weapons which he then sells LO orcs in eastern Duur. He receives gold [or the corpses.

Ruddy-faced and stout, Cruenk has a thin mouth that perpetually curls up in a snarl. A pipe hangs from his lips. though il is rarely lit. A curly beard i: trimmed close to his waist. which he LUcks inside his belt buckle.

QUick to anger and slow LO forgive, Cruenk has few friends, but he is well reo garded among the undead for his excellent selection of flesh and his consistency or delivery.

Name: CharI

Location: War Mammoth encounter of the Random Events section.

Story: Recounts sight of Nightbay's rise from grave

Chorl, Skill 11, dwarotm Bzontra fighter ST: 17 (+ J to hit and damage), IT: 14 IN: 15, SM: 16 (+2 HTKper Skill level) DX: 14, AP; 16

AC:' 10, HTK: 9D8

MV:12"

At: Lawful/Good

A.T: l. DM: by weapon THIlCO: 7 (5 with baule a e) Weapons: +2 baule axe

M(tgic Items: Bzontra la her (.3 uses remaining), .3 candles of Beinder. Chains of Manifestation, small pouch of .3 jars containing orange. red, and yellow War Palm. (Sec Nei» Magic Items [or descri pt ions for these i terns.)

Charl is the leader of a Bzontra cavalry sq uad that consists of a dozen dwarves who

ride trained rornpos on their patrol of the southern reaches of Verdaise. Expertly acquainted with the terrain and urces of food and water, Charl's group is specially prepared [or missions that may Lake them away from the main camp for two weeks at a time.

Outgoing and loyal, Charl's smooth face shows few traces of his years spent fighting Nightbav's warriors. His vouthlul appearance is enhanced by his shock of golden hair.

Tali for a dwarf, Charl stand 4!-i feet tall, with a large belly that droops over his belt. Charl claim that his paunch is the resuh of having no hair on his face and ays. "It's where I store the extra protein."

The following description should be read to the players if Char] is asked about the Lichlord or Nightbay,

"We found what looked like an ancient shrine in the woods outside of Toredo, A sense 0/ evil overwhelmed alia/ us as we cut through the underbrush. Our leader, Mershan, discovered a bloodstained altar and was in the process of examining it when I tripped ouet a low mound in front Of it, I began to poke at the mound with my dagger and lear away the thick-set brambles when I heard Mershari cry out.

"The bloodstains on the altar iiquljied. beforc our eyes and formed liny streams that flowed towards th« mound where 1 kneeled. Mesmerized, I touched the blood and was immediately paralyzed. Helplessly I watched the blood sink into th« mound and felt the earth moving beside me. omething tuas craialing from that lump Of dirt, something with a stench so hor-rible I wanted to retch.

"Slowly, the thing tore itself [rom the ground and ripped away the weeds covering its grave. It was dead, but 110/ whoU.y decayed. Its eyes glowed with a light not Of this earth, I would call it a zombie, but no zombie could have done to my friends what this creature did.

"When J could finally move again, the time [or help had passed. Mersha« leaned against the altar by a pool of blood and vomit. He had been tortured horribly, yet the monster could not have been by his side more than a few minutes.

"Another com punion, Petran, wa~-Iymg 0'11_ his stomacl«. He WIU still bTeaOling, biu his skill ioas rotting. I turned him over only to ser a massof/le$hfallfrom his/ace. The best I could fur Illy old friend weI. plunge a dagger deep lulu his heart and end his sujjrring.

"Our last companion. Alest ri, wa 1l6'TJer [oun. i.] [eel {hall did him U TOng; perhaps he uianders the land as a liuing corpse. ne-oer 10 find peace.

"1' rom the descriptions of Nigluba» thtu L'ue heard since, I am sure tha./this was his doing. To think that l:t may have been possible 10 destroy him if only we knew what we had found ... "

REFERENCE INDEX

The page numbers given refer [0 where the major explanation and/sr the first mention is found on the topic.

NEW SPELLS

Become Non-Corporeal p. 14

Decompose p. 13

Enhanced Animate Dead p. 14

Entomb p. 14

Mist from the Grave p. 13

Shroud. . . . . .. . .. . . .. . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . .. p. 13

Torture p. 13

NEW MAGIC ITEMS

Brain DUSI , ,. , ,. p. 15

Bzorura Lasher , . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. p. 18

Candles of Beinder , ., p. 16

Cape of Turning , , , p. 15

Chains of Manifestation p. 16

Crystal of Summoning Ecroplasrnics " p. 16

Death Horn , .. , p. 15

Fingers of Xenadar , p. 17

Holy Sword of Griswold , p. 16

Masks of the Dead p. 19

Pontificus' Magic Tusks p. 17

Arm of Chance

Arm of Misfortune

Statue of Control

Statue of Empathy

RigoJd , p. 19

Scroll of Fatigue , ,. p. 15

Staff of Earth Fire p. 17

War Paints p. 19

NEW MONSTERS

Ash Steed " p. 27

Blood Spirit , .. p. 27

Cecrops , , ,... p. 23

Children of Pnogwyn , . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 22

Death Dragon , . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . p. 25

Fear Spider " p.23

Flame Zombie , . .. . . . . . .. . .. . . . . . . . . . p. 26

Hoodoo Men , ' p. 23

Ionic Discarnate. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. .. .. . . . .. .. . . .. p. 27

Moonscourge . . . . . . . . .. . . . • . . . . .. p. 26

Offspring of Nighrbay ,., p. 23

Rompo p.26

War Mammoth p, 24

PLACES

Western Duur p. 4

Dvegar Mountains p. 4

Forest of Evernight , " p. 4

Crimspade Desert , , . " p. 4

Ironhead ,.............. p. 4

Oribrand , . . . . . . . . . . . .. p. 30

Pnogwyn " p.22

Roguestead . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . .. . . . . . . . . . .. p. 4

Sea of Dreams , , . p. 4:

Woldham , p. 4

Verdaise . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. p. 28

Religion of ' , .. p. 30

Trade and Commerce of . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. p. 28

Flora and Fauna p. 32

Rigold Beetle

Lava Lizard

Fire Snake

Rabbit

Desert Quail

Ash Swimmer Snake Yucca Aberration Rafleshia

Black Cactus Yarrow

Nettle

Black Nightshade

Region I p. 35

Active Volcano Ash Dunes Bone Bridges

Lava Lake ~ Dragon's Blood Lava River

Lava Tunnels (Lava Tubes)

Region II , , .. p. 37

Lava Tunnels (Tubes) Dormant Volcano Fleshly Garden

Small Lava Lake

Region III . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. .. . . . . . . . . . . .. p. 41 Active Volcano

Bone Bridge

Batholith

Tower of Spells

Ashlaeden

MISCELLANEOUS

Azur's Scroll ,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . p. 19

Bzontra (dwarves) p. 12

Ceremonies of Creation p. 19

Dwarfengs .. , . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 30

Elgaard Dwarves ,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. p. 4

Lichlord Council p. 6

Nightbay

Darselai

Kernal

Zekur

Gari.an

Undead Legion ,., p. 10

Skeleton Ranking

Tactics

The Crear Catastrophe ,. , p.4 79

How To Use This Book

Conventions Include the '0' abbreviation COT "die" 01 "dice". I 020 means roll one 20-sided die: I 0100 (01 D%) mea ns loll I W() IO-sidrd diet" scqueru.ially, generating (I pcrccruage or number bel ween 01 and 00 (00 is read as 100); 3D6 means loll three 6-siued dire and add the resuhs (or the suru,

Value assumes, with medieval level of civilizai ion, thai the value of one gold piece is about $20 in current U.S. dollars, An income of 20 gold pieces (or gp, would be a very profitable day [or a merchant, bUl.i)-IO gold piecesis a more 1 ikely sum [OJ a day's effort. Hirelings' wages are usually 10 gp per day per Skill level, with a dramatic increase COl jobs that an" perceived to be dangerous,

Armor Class works on a scale where ,I lower number is better. A characte: With no armor ha - AC: 10. Ashield adds one step to make it AC: 9~ chain mail is AC: 5; and plate and , .. hield is AC: 2.

HTK means Hits To Kill. This is the number of dire that a character OJ monster has belore he is killed. The I ype of dice used for a character depend on a character"

r lass: monsters always use DR

THACO i a ronvcnieru 13listi( meaning "To Hit Armor Class 0". Whcn vou know sorneoue's THACQ, you will know I he uurnber requir ed to score a sur essfu l hit with a n20 (01 multiply that number b} 5 to get rhc pri'cemagt' chance of sU('("('SS). A target 's AnnOT Class is subtracted lrom i he attarkers THACO to obtain the required die toll Oil ,I D2().

For Example. il Erik's THA :0 is 16 and the target is weariug chain mail with no shield (I\C: "'), Erik needs 10 roll II or less on a D20 ! 16-.~ = II) 01 1'011 55 or less on a percentile ui(c (II x 5% = 55%).

Characteristics (or A I rri butt's. Ab ili I Y S('OI"(,~. 01 Starist ics) are del ived from 3D6. The lowest score lor a human is :I and the highest ~t'01T is au 18 ([JOj.

Saving Throws (Saves) decide how you are al'lertecl b) spel Is. poison, etc. You ar -oltr-n required 10 roll a rena in number 011 a D20: if you n Il that number or over you succeed and the el len, of the auack on )'our r harartel arc reduced or negated, Remember, Ior normal sav ing throws you must roll equal

to or grea ter I han vour ( 11 arari t'l \ o;;J vi ng 11110\\ 1111111])1" 10 succeed.

Ability Rolls 1)11 your Ch,H<I(U;,r\ abililj(,~ 01' stu I i~IIl"" \VOl k rnurh like saving throws, 011 c ertain r xr nsrons. YOUI r hararier will be direc Inl If) "",11'1' vs." III "save aga i us!" a basi. ~1;Ili"li(.

FOI example. il VOl! waru ro dete. I a lir oi gel intorrnar ir ru, \ ou mas ha \'C; lO s,n',' on a die roll vs. your J might I IN).

Roll a D20 Ir» ;111 ~aw" VS, ahilil\ ~((1I(,".

TJ lilt' number i~ equal to or lower than the ab i lirx sc ut e. you make IOUI' save, You ,1I't' able {II IrJ I il ,I 1lt"I'S0I1 is lying Ol 1101 in' an impO! taut clue.

Ability loll" ..tIl' ofu-n modified, [! you are invu urted to make an IN ahilil) roll fa loll vs. yuur I:">J) '-'I +:1. you add 3 to the die 1'011. Fill examplr'. if your IN is 12'HHI you roll a 10. you st i ll luil to sa\"e(IO-"-3 = 1:\),

Maps; :'\'10'1 of rile time. <IdVI'11Illll' maps will be ~ I Ill<' r-nd of (or the midd le (1) ,!II advenuue and !lOI scau red throughout the book. <.,et' Table of Contents 01 rhis book for tlu- page numbers or maps.

Reading the Entries

Each of the enu-ies in this book has two sections. WhatlhC' GM reads lO the players is primed in italic type. This portion oC the text is followed by three asterisks. as follows:

" .. "

The porti on of I he text tha i iells w ha I I he GM should know is primed in regular (Roman) 1)'Pt'.

Any infnrmation thai is of special illterest ro lite GM in conducring the advertrure ",'jll be indicated by the WOlds: GM NOTE.

Example:

11 CASCADE

Entrance 10 Cavern Level! I

t1 small uraterjall flows from a hole ill t lir center of Ihe crilmg. It feeds a stream ituu (UI.I tll1'IJugl1 th» rave and flows down tire passagruur; to I he f'G.S1.

The ho!e I'll the ceiling 1.5 about 8' ill diameter and it Leads up verticall». TIll' tusli of (nLllIIg Wilier is 11.01 svlfu'ielll to unpede n climbing attemp«. GMNOTE:Thi-h Ie in thc ei liug is rhe onlv access 10 Cavern Level Il ,

III som« (a~t'.,. lilt' party wil] ronlmru 11101 c than OIlC opponent in a CilI'C OJ room. \\'hCIl I hi~ h<IPI)('I1~, the nurnhei of al tac-king "PP')ll('IIl\ will be shown in pau-mhcsi~ belore the opponcn Is' namr or 111OIWII'I typt'. a~ in Ihi~ exarnple:

(6) Dirt' Wolves

.ic: 6, HTK: ~n8+3 Mr': IH"

AL: Nt'IIl!<.l1 IT:~t'mj·

AT: I. ost. ~-g TTl ,lCO: Hi

ABBREVIATIONS

AC .......•.. , ..•. ,. Armor Class HTK . , •.....•.... , .. HilS to Kill MV ,. Movement in lr. per melee round

/1#" _ ••••••..••.• Flying Speed

11#" , .•. , , .•.• Swimming Speed

AL ............•..... Alignment AT ... ,., .. Attacks per melee round

DM . , . , , . Damage per attack

THACO .•....• To Hit Armor Class 0

Special .. , .. Special attacks 01 defenses

ST . . . . • . . . . Strength

IT , . , .•. , . , •... , . , .. , , Intellect

IN ....•....•.... , Insight

DX . . . . • . . ,Dexlerity

SM .•.... , , , Stamina

AP ...• , .•..... , • , ,Appeal

gp . , .••.. , .••. , . , gold pieces

sp .... _ .........•... srlver pieces

4/2/1 ....•. , . Spells pei level of spell

{t. •.•.•..•.••••• _ ....•••• FeCI

EP. , . . ,., Experience Points GM .. , ....•..... , .. Carne Maste:

1age . '. . .. , .... " .. Magic-User

TIME:

Segment .........•.. , . b Seconds

Melee Round . . 10 Segment'>, I minute Tum , •. 10 NIt-lee Rounds, 10 minutes