Eaves of Mirkwood

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Accessories every Loremaster needs to recruit players

to the world’s greatest fantasy setting.
- contents -
Introduction 2 Don’t Leave The Path! 10 Part 6:
Who What Where 2 Assigning Tasks 11 Capture! 21
The Purpose of this Adventure 2 Peril Rating 12 Rowanhold 21
What you’ll Need 2 Embarkation Table 12 The Plan in Action 22
Experience Awards 3 A Note on Playstyles 22
The Story 3 Part 3:
Rules Changes in Brief 4 Along the Road 13 Part 7:
Running the Adventure 5 Ideas for Things Seen on the Road 13 Explain Yourselves! 23
Pregenerated Characters 5 Journey Events Table 14 Arrival Table 23
Lifstan, son of Leiknir 5 The Audience 24
Beran of the Mountains 6 Part 4: Playing Gailavira 26
Beli 6 Ambush! 16
Caranthiel 6 Eaves of Mirkwood Goblin Soldier 17 Part 8:
Trotter 7 Bags of Jewels and Gold 17 Warg Attack! 27
The Bride 7 Greymuzzle Hob 27
Part 5:
Part 1: Celebration! 18 Part 9:
Many Meetings 8 Snorri, the smith 18 The Wandering Wizard 28
Sights about Woodmen-town 9 Borri, the whittler 18
Useful names for Woodmen NPCs 9 Hár, the stone mason 18 Riddle Sheet 29
Ale and Smoke Rings and Loremaster’s Map 30
Part 2: Roasted Pig 19 Player’s Map 31
The Journey Begins 10 Bed Time 21
Full Journey Rules Summary 10 But my players hate this kind of fun! 21
Planning the Route 10
- credits -
Written by Jon Hodgson To find out more about Adventures in Middle- Published by Sophisticated Games Ltd, 3
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Gareth Ryder-Hanrahan, Jon Hodgson,  
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Rings, and the characters, items, events and places therein
Francesco Nepitello and Ken Spencer are trademarks or registered trademarks of The Saul Zaentz
Creative Direction by Jon Hodgson Company d/b/a Middle-earth Enterprises and are used
under license by Sophisticated Games Ltd and their respective
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Proofreading: David Rea and Jacob Rodgers and trade dress. Open Game Content: The Open content in Based on The One Ring Roleplaying Game by
this book includes material taken from the Systems Reference Francesco Nepitello and Marco Maggi.
© Sophisticated Games Ltd 2017 Document. No other portion of this work may be reproduced
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© Cubicle 7 Entertainment Ltd 2017
1
The Eaves of Mirkwood
A two hour scenario isn’t long enough to show off every

- Introduction - single part of Adventures in Middle-earth – some of the
new rules will be shown in cut-down versions as a taster.
If you’re running short on time, either run Part 4 as a

This short adventure is designed to give players a taste narrative description instead of playing out the fight, and
of Adventures in Middle-earth, the OGL setting for 5th compress the roleplaying in Parts 5 and 7.
edition. It is intended as a 2 to 3 hour experience that
introduces some of the new rules and concepts found in
Adventures in Middle-earth. It can be used to introduce a
new group to the game, or with some adaptation, dropped
in to any existing campaign.
Who What Where

Five years have passed since the events of The Hobbit. We
find ourselves in Wilderland, or Rhovanion, the region
of Middle-earth east of the Misty Mountains and north
of Gondor. It includes Lake-town, Erebor (The Lonely
Mountain), the newly rebuilt Dale, Rhosgobel, Woodmen-
town, Thranduil’s Hall, and the dark vastness of Mirkwood
itself. Wilderland has a huge amount of territory and
places familiar and strange to explore.
The dragon Smaug is dead, slain by Bard the Bowman,

now King Bard of Dale. People all across Wilderland
are finding new hope for the future. Trade routes are
reopening, and the free folk of Wilderland are beginning
to get to know one another again.
As players, we know that a time of great strife is just a What you’ll Need
generation away: a shadow is deepening in Southern • The 5e rules – these are available free online – or a
Mirkwood. But for now this is a time of great exploration hard-copy of the player’s rules.
and discovery, a time to sally forth in search of adventure!
• It would be extremely helpful to have access to
The Purpose of this Adventure Adventures in Middle-earth Player’s Guide and
The idea of this scenario is to allow players to explore a bit Loremaster’s Guide. But Eaves of Mirkwood can be
of Wilderland, using the new rules found in Adventures in run without them.
Middle-earth.
• A passing knowledge of Middle-earth. You don’t need
Everyone should have fun, have time to speak, get to to be an expert, nor do the players. If you’ve seen
make some decisions, play out a journey and a battle, the movies that will serve you well. If you’ve read
roleplay with one another and with engaging and the books so much the better. The more you know of
familiar NPCs, and come away having had a great time Middle-earth the more of its special atmosphere you
in Middle-earth. can impart, but you do not need to be an expert.
2
Introduction
• Time to read through this adventure – it’ll be tough to

run it on the fly. We recommend you read it and make
some notes.
Experience Awards
Throughout this adventure you’ll see symbols in the
margin. These indicate a chance for the Loremaster to
award Experience Points for overcoming challenges.
These opportunities are optional, to be made at the

Loremaster’s discretion and in accordance with the
method of levelling they have chosen. They might form a The Story
direct, numerical award, or a silently observed instance
that counts towards gaining a whole level if enough are King Bard summons adventurers to Lake-town to assist
checked off. in the rebuilding of his kingdom! Our characters are at
the very beginning of their adventuring careers: each is
Every game will vary, but these Experience Awards have provided with a motivation to set out on the road and
been calculated to offer a good chance for a typical heed King Bard’s call to arms.
company to advance to level 2 by the completion of
the adventure. Eaves of Mirkwood makes use of the Meeting for the first time in Woodmen-town, at the
Experience Rewards by Challenge table for non-combat beginning of their quest to Lake-town, our heroes plan out
encounters. Just as a combat encounter should be scaled their journey together as new friends.
to reflect the size of your company, so too should these
awards be scaled to match your group of adventurers. The journey towards Lake-town goes awry, and our heroes
come to the aid of a small band of wandering Dwarves.
The symbols in red represent an individual achievement. Their mutual foes defeated, they enjoy an impromptu
Those in green are intended to be divided amongst the evening’s feast. Tales are told, pipes are smoked, and a
party. delicious pig roast accompanies the opening of a keg of
beer.
Experience derived from battle is calculated according to
the core rules – for the sake of simplicity and consistency The next morning brings some bad luck. The delicious pig
there is no change there. was an offering to a dangerous Warg given by a nearby
village of Woodmen, and they are not happy that the
Company and their new friends have eaten it! Taking
them prisoner, the Woodmen march them off to the village
Challenge XP Challenge XP elder to answer for their crime.
1/8 25 3 700
1/4 50 4 1,100 The audience in front of the Woodman elder is interrupted
1/2 100 5 1,800 by a Warg attack. The Company must fight for survival!
1 200 6 2,300
2 450 Victorious, they enjoy another celebration, this time
benefitting from the hospitality of the village with their
blessing.
Individual Group
Award Award
The following morning our heroes set out once more, and
at the end of their journey encounter an old man in grey
robes wearing a battered Wizard’s hat…
3
Rules Changes in Brief

Combat Audiences
Combat rules remain unchanged from the core 5e rules. (page 192 of Adventures in Middle-earth Player’s Guide)
When Player-heroes in Middle-earth encounter one of
All the character’s abilities are on their character sheets. It is the great, powerful or wise, it is well to go about it in the
recommended that you look them over so there aren’t any big proper way. Adventures in Middle-earth presents a system
surprises there. for determining the response of significant characters that
player-heroes meet along the way.
Alignment and Corruption
(page 180 of Adventures in Middle-earth Player’s Guide) New Skills
Alignment is not used. All characters in Adventures in Middle- (page 27 of Adventures in Middle-earth Player’s Guide)
earth are intended to be broadly speaking “good”, and when Player-heroes in Adventures in Middle-earth have access to a
they encounter evil, they fight it. However the Shadow is few setting-specific skills, some hard to come by, and some
always a temptation, always a risk. Adventures in Middle- near-essential.
earth features a new Corruption system. Characters gain
Shadow points for: Riddle
An accepted custom among many creatures, speaking in
• Experiencing distressing events (Anguish), riddles is usually allowed among strangers meeting for the
• Crossing or dwelling in an area tainted by first time who want to speak guardedly. Use Intelligence
manifestations of the Shadow (Blighted Places), (Riddle) checks to discuss a subject while concealing part of
• Committing despicable of dishonourable acts what you know, such as when explaining something about
(Misdeeds) – this may occur in this scenario – feel yourself without revealing your true identity. This skill is also
free to give the players a Shadow point whenever they used to gain helpful insight into spoken or written riddles.
commit a misdeed,
• Taking possession of a cursed or tainted item or treasure Lore
(Tainted Treasure). Your Intelligence (Lore) check measures your ability to recall
unusual and obscure information about old legends, ancient
In this scenario, there won’t be time for Shadow Points to take war gear, bits of song, rare artefacts, and the reading of runes.
their full effect, but everyone should be aware that getting too Lore replaces the Arcana skill; magic is an imprecise term,
many is a bad thing, and can lead to a player losing control for folk use it to describe both the blessings of the Elves and
of their character, and eventually being forced to retire the the deceits of the Enemy.
character all together.
Shadow-lore
Virtues A dark branch of knowledge, Intelligence (Shadow-lore)
(page 100 of Adventures in Middle-earth Player’s Guide) checks allow you to share what you’ve learned about the ways
Player-heroes have access to a series of powers called of the Enemy and the various creatures that stalk through the
Virtues. These work similarly to feats. They are often dark places of Middle-earth. Where Lore deals with the past,
powered by spending Hit Dice or Inspiration. Shadow-lore deals with the present and the rising threat of
the Enemy’s many minions.
Journeys
(page 164 of Adventures in Middle-earth Player’s Guide) Traditions
The Adventures in Middle-earth journey rules create Your Intelligence (Traditions) check measures your ability
a sequence of bonuses, penalties and engaging Middle- to recall the proper courtesies and etiquette expected by
earth events that make travelling great distances engaging, the various Free Folk cultures, along with some of their
challenging and interesting, while increasing the feeling stories about their people and their respective histories. An
of being in the setting. This adventure sets out a cut down Intelligence (Traditions) ability check is used whenever
version of the full journey system which will give your players you wish to gain an Audience with someone of influence.
a feel for how it works. Traditions also covers the knowledge of such religion as
exists in Middle-earth.
4
Introduction
Running the Adventure Pregenerated Characters

The adventure is presented in nine key parts.
Each of the six pre-generated characters supplied with
Part 1: Many Meetings this adventure have a motivation for why they have come
The players introduce their characters to one another in together on the road to form a company of adventurers.
Woodmen-town. In a full length game, players create their own characters
and work as a group to decide why they are travelling and
Part 2: The Journey Begins battling together as a company.
The players plan out their journey to the Forest Gate of
Mirkwood. Character creation in Adventures in Middle-earth is
designed to give players a lot of information about their
Part 3: Along the Road character – not just their numerical abilities or rules-based
The journey is played out, showcasing the journey rules, skills, but motivations in life, suggestions on how they
with a fixed outcome for the purposes of this adventure. could be played at the table, and how they fit into Middle-
earth. All characters in Adventures in Middle-earth have a
Background, a Distinctive Quality, a Speciality, a Hope and
Part 4: Ambush!
a Despair. Between these features their character is defined.
The Company comes to the rescue of a band of wandering
Dwarves.
For the purposes of this scenario, and to get the action
going as quickly as possible, some additional information
Part 5: Celebration! is supplied.
The Company celebrate with the Dwarves, enjoying some
Middle-earth themed roleplay.
Part 6: Capture!
The characters are captured and taken into custody at the
nearby village, Rowanhold.
Part 7: Explain Yourselves!

An audience with the village elder. The heroes must decide
how to explain their actions, and are introduced to an
opportunity to help.
Part 8: Warg Attack! Lifstan, son of Leiknir – Barding

The climax of the adventure sees the characters fight for Warrior
their lives against a vengeful Warg. Having seen the defeat of Smaug the Terrible as a young
man, Lifstan’s mind was awoken to the presence of great
Part 9: The Wandering Wizard evil in the world. Troubled by these thoughts, he has
The next morning, in the closing moments of the scenario travelled the lands, seeking the dangers that lie in the
the party meet Gandalf, and have the chance to accompany dark places of the world.
him into Mirkwood.
Ability scores: High Strength, high Charisma
Distinctive Quality: Adventurous. You enjoy seeking out
new challenges and experiences.
Speciality: Burglary. Finding what you seek often
means finding a way into places where you’re not
supposed to be.
Hope: I know that the Shadow will tremble the day we
recover a lost relic.
5
Despair: I’m certain that when I find what I am looking

for that it will be something that was better left alone.
Why Lifstan begins the game at Woodmen-town:

You were forbidden by your father from answering
Bard’s call until after you delivered a message to the
elders of Woodmen-town. You performed the errand,
parted company with his father’s men who left some
days ago and now you want to get back.
Beli – Dwarf of the Lonely

Mountain Treasure Hunter
Having lost his father to the uncharted North beyond the
Lonely Mountain, Beli has set out on the road to seek
riches, and perhaps his lost family.
Ability scores: High Constitution, high Dexterity

Distinctive Quality: Cunning. Your sharp wit is a way in
which you cope with the gravity of your burden.
Speciality: Dark Secrets. You are certain that your
Beran of the Mountains – Beorning dreams touch the Shadow. You are learning all that you
Warden can about it.
Beran sees his role in life as that of a protector of the Hope: I am destined to strike a mortal blow against the
weak and innocent. Granted strength of arms, he seeks Shadow.
to look after those who need his protection. Beran has Despair: I believe my dreams are being fed by the
realised that doing so solely in his small corner of the Shadow; they are leading me to my doom.
Mountains is not enough. There is a greater need in the
wider world. Why Beli begins the game at Woodmen-town: You
crossed Mirkwood with a group of traders out of Erebor,
Ability scores: High Strength, high Dexterity performing menial tasks for them. They headed north,
Distinctive Quality: Trusty. You are someone people you decided to head south in search of adventure. Now
know they can trust. you have heard Bard’s proclamation and wish to hurry
Speciality: Enemy-lore. You focus much of your efforts homeward to help.
against a single enemy, the one that vexes your people.
Hope: I would place myself in danger for a friend.
Despair: I know that when the agents of the Shadow
come, I will be amongst the first to fall.
Why Beran begins the game at Woodmen-town: You

came down from the mountains to see what you could
do in the wider world to help people. You heard tell of
Bard’s Proclamation, and want to reach Lake-town. Your
wandering has brought you to Woodmen-town. You’re not
sure which way to go to get to Lake-town.
Caranthiel – Elf of Mirkwood Scholar

Having learned about her ancestors who fought against
the Shadow, Caranthiel ventured out into wider Mirkwood.
6
Introduction
She has found much that troubles her, and she seeks to Hope: If you only live at home, then you have never truly
learn more about the Shadow and how it can be defeated. lived.
Despair: I can never forge strong bonds; I’m always on
Ability scores: High Intelligence, high Dexterity the move.
Distinctive Quality: Secretive. Your thoughts are your
own and you are very difficult to read. Why Trotter begins the game at Woodmen-town:
Speciality: Rhymes of Lore. Much knowledge is You have spent a year working your way Eastwards. King
contained in the verses of poetry and song. You have Bard’s summons reached you at the Old Ford, and you
learned to use the effect such compositions have on have resolved to head to Lake-town. You’ve dropped into
those with whom you negotiate to your advantage. Woodmen-town to resupply before heading onward.
Hope: Only by joining forces can we hope to push back
the Shadow.
Despair: The Shadow’s influence is too strong; my
entreaties often fall on deaf ears.
Why Caranthiel begins the game at Woodmen-town:

You have of late wandered the elf paths of Mirkwood,
finally reaching Woodmen-town. There you heard of
Bard’s Proclamation, and now seek to travel to Lake-town.
This seems like an ideal opportunity to learn more of the
wider world.
The Bride – Woodwoman of
Wilderland Slayer
The Bride seeks the Beast of Mirkwood who changed her
life forever, slaying her bethrothed and many warriors
from her village.
Ability scores: High Dexterity, high Constitution

Distinctive Quality: Grim. You can’t conceal your
misery and it makes others uneasy around you.
Speciality: Leech-craft. The Company brought you along
because you are the only one who can patch them up
Trotter – Hobbit Wanderer when they invariably run into trouble.
After a meeting with Gandalf the Conjuror at a party in Hope: I know that one day I shall rest by my fire again.
the Shire, Trotter took to the road in search of the Grey Despair: Fate hates me; I am constantly tossed into
Wanderer. Unlike most of his people, he longs to see all these dangerous situations in the hopes that the world
the sights that Middle-earth has to offer. will finally be rid of me!
Ability scores: High Dexterity, high Constitution, high Why The Bride begins the game at Woodmen-town:
Intelligence You have been heading east searching for the Beast of
Distinctive Quality: Keen-eyed. You are adept at Mirkwood. Bard’s proclamation reached you recently,
spotting stormy weather and other dangers before they and you have resolved to head to Lake-town and see if you
can affect you. can find help for your quest.
Speciality: Story-telling. You’ve heard many stories
while on the road and you have a gift for imparting them
to others.
7
occasional travelling merchant lays out their goods,

- Part 1 - pig and sheep-herders drive their animals into pens,
tradesmen meet to buy materials and sell their wares, and
Many Meetings the local gossips gather to trade tales.
The Dusky River that runs to the east of the town is

The players introduce their characters to still swollen with meltwater from the Mountains of
one another. Mirkwood. On the couple of jetties that poke out into
the river, fisher-folk mend their nets, carve out new log
Our fellowship of would-be heroes meets in Woodmen- boats, and tar their coracles in readiness for the fishing
town, a small but thriving settlement under the gloomy season to begin.
eaves of Mirkwood.
Allow the players a chance to introduce themselves,
It is spring, and the town is waking from Winter. Men giving a brief description of their characters if they
and women drag rugs and blankets outside, and beat the chose to do so. As some of the Player-heroes are recent
winter’s dust out of them. Knee-deep ashes from fires kept arrivals, the gossips want to know everything about them.
burning all season long are cleared from the hearths, and Ask each character what they seek in Lake-town – give
the collection of firewood for next year begins. The town is Inspiration to any player who works any of a Distinctive
a safe refuge in a sea of dark and threatening woods, but Quality, Speciality, Hope or Despair into their answer.
the slow pace of life among the Woodmen has made our
heroes restless. All are keen to find travelling companions The recent history and motivations given on each
and head out into the wider world. character sheet should quickly get things going. All the
characters have been provided with a strong motivation
The companions meet on the grassy sward of the Market to leave Woodmen-town and head to Lake-town.
Green. Above the Green, atop the central hill of Woodmen-
town, all can see the richly decorated Great Hall. Inside Most of this part of the adventure will be taken up with
it, the legendary Lamp of Balthi is kept safe, the greatest introductions, but opposite are some useful scene-setting
treasure of the Woodmen. On the Market Green the sights, should they be needed.
Part1: Many Meetings
Sights about Woodmen-town across Wilderland. Folk are travelling again, and there
An old guide named Heva sits at the edge of the Market is more friendship and trade between the various Free
Green on a carved log stool. As a veteran traveller, Folk. Odo doesn’t like it – strange folk bring trouble, he
who used to lead logging parties into the forest, she can grumbles. They don’t know the ways of the wood.
give the Company advice on planning their upcoming
journey. Guides who listen to her advice gain a +1 on their • Amalina, a merchant from Mountain Hall selling axe
Embarkation Roll (see page 12). heads and iron pegs, laughs at Odo’s dour complaints.
She praises the Beornings, who now watch over the
A handful of children freed from their chores chase a Old Ford across the Great River and keep travellers
wooden ball with sticks around the open areas of the town. safe. If Beran of the Mountains or another Beorning
Elders shout at them to stay inside the stockade, warning is with the group, she thanks him for his people’s
them that they’ll be eaten by Spiders if they stray. (Giant doughty defence of travellers.
Spiders rarely dare to cross the Dusky River, but one does
not grow old in Mirkwood without learning caution.) • Old Ingund, a charcoal burner trading bundles of 1/8
charcoal in a variety of sizes. He’s spent far too long

The walls of Woodmen-town are built from a palisade wandering Mirkwood on his own, and mutters to
of stout logs, sharpened at the top. Bunches of fragrant himself about Spiders and eyes and Goblins. With
herbs can be seen hanging from the walls to ward off evil a successful DC 10 Intelligence (Riddle) check,
influences. the characters learn that many Goblins fled into
Mirkwood after their defeat at the Battle of Five
The palisade has a mixture of very ancient, moss covered Armies, and are only now finding their way to the
sections, and much newer freshly cut and erected logs. western eaves of the wood.
The houses in Woodmen-town are all rectangular long • Barald, a rotund, shaggy-haired wood carver sits on
houses, with sloping shingled roofs that reach almost to a patterned blanket, carving wooden talismans. He
the ground. will make any reasonable trade with a polite player-
hero for a lucky carved talisman of a heartwood
An inner palisade runs around the waist of the hill which wolf’s head, which he swears will keep them safe.
is home to the Great Hall and elder council’s halls. Only Carried by a Guide this talisman gives a +1 result to
those with business on the hill are allowed into this inner any Embarkation Roll made on a journey beginning
palisade. in the Eaves of Mirkwood. Beyond this place it has no
power to protect its owner.
Well-trained working dogs can be seen all around Wood-
men town, the Woodmen being masters of hounds that Our heroes have stayed in some of the many guest-houses
are kennelled at the north of the settlement and watch for in Woodmen-town. These used to be inhabited by but are
any threat from the forest. Occasional excited barks can now abandoned as the population has dwindled.
be heard, but no howls warn of danger.
Useful names for Woodmen NPCs:
The sound of timber being chopped is a constant refrain in Male Names: Alaric, Alberic, Arnulf, Baldac, Barald,
Woodman-town. Eboric, Frideger, Garivald, Grimbald, Hildebald, Iwgar,
Malaric, Merovech, Odovacar, Ramnulf, Roderic, Sigeric,
Of note on the Market Green: Sigibert, Theuderic, Wulferd.
• Odo, a shepherd who sells dried mutton as well as Female Names: Adosinda, Amalfrida, Avagisa, Avina,
fresher meat. He grumbles that the ‘business up north’ Beranhild, Brunihild, Gailavira, Garsendis, Geleswinta,
– by which he means the death of the Dragon and the Gelvira, Grimhild, Hermesind, Heva, Hilduara,
rebuilding of Dale – has caused all sorts of bother Radegund.
9
• Events are played through, noting down the

- Part
2- result for reference.
• The Arrival roll (d4) is made, and results applied.
The Journey
Begins In the Player’s Guide, and expanded with additional
options in the Loremaster’s Guide, players take different
tasks for the journey, determine their route, and make
Once the Company have introduced themselves and rolls to see what happens along the way. Journey Events
agreed to travel together to Lake-town, it is time to plan replace wandering monsters, and add a variety and depth
the journey. If they need in-character advice then Heva the to proceedings, reflecting the importance of journeys
veteran logging guide is on hand at the edge of the Market in Middle-earth. There are no teleportation-spells or
Green to help. convenient caravans to whisk adventurers from one spot on
the map to another; getting There and going Back Again
This adventure uses a cut down version of the full journey are a major component of Adventures in Middle-earth.
rules found in Adventures in Middle-earth Player’s Guide,
(page 164) both for speed and simplicity.
For this scenario much of the randomness will be removed
Full Journey Rules Summary and the breadth of available options reduced, but you
(steps used in this scenario are in bold): might not want to let your players know that. A roll of dice
behind a Loremaster screen is always good for building
• Players assign tasks and plan route. excitement.
• Loremaster determines Peril Rating of the journey.
• The Guide makes an Embarkation Roll: 1D12 Planning the Route
modified by the Guide’s Proficiency Bonus First of all the players need to decide on their route
plus half their Wisdom bonus minus the Peril to Lake-town. Hand them a copy of the Player’s Map
Rating. provided at the back of this adventure. Poring over a map
• The Loremaster either relays the result, or of Wilderland is a core part of the Adventures in Middle-
optionally hints at it. earth experience.
• Determine the number of Journey Events.
• Events are created by rolling a d12, potentially Travelling straight through Mirkwood would be absolute
modified by the Embarkation result. folly, and take months (see Don’t Leave the Path! below).
Don’t Leave The Path!

If the party decide to head directly into Mirkwood the denizens of Woodmen-town will do their best to dissuade them.
Mirkwood, beyond the immediate surroundings of Woodmen-town, is a nightmare place. The air is thin and hard to
breathe. There is no food or water. If the Company will not be dissuaded then they march to their doom. They find that
any trace of a path quickly disappears. The trees turn black, and all light disappears. Birdsong fades to an oppressive
silence that rings in the ears. The only animals that can be seen are the occasional sinister black-furred squirrels that
stare blankly down from the twisted dead branches overhead. Progress becomes slower and slower, until by the best
reckoning the Company are barely travelling a few miles a day. Black-thorned briars and acres of stinging nettles
all impede the traveller, treacherous, bottomless pools of brackish water covered in skeletal leaves await the unwary.
Supplies run thin, until eventually the Company will be forced to attempt to return to Woodmen-town. Once hope has
turned to folly, ask for a DC 15 Wisdom saving throw for each day of travel. Each failure earns 1 Shadow point.
10
Part 2: The Journey Begins
Anyone in Woodmen-town, and indeed common sense, Wisdom and the Survival proficiency.
can tell them this. Mirkwood is widely feared and with good Scout - In charge of finding safe camp sites, opening new
reason. Even an Elf of Mirkwood like Caranthiel knows trails. Scouts rely on Stealth and Investigation.
not to stray far from the paths of her people.The Bride (a Hunter - In charge of finding food in the wild. Hunters
woodwoman herself) and Trotter the wanderer, will also seek success on Survival checks.
know that travel through Mirkwood is extremely dangerous. Look-out - In charge of keeping watch. Look-outs rely on
their abilities in Perception.
Traders and those with horses usually take the long way
around the forest, going north and passing through the Ask the players to decide who takes which role.
Grey Mountain Narrows. While this way is much safer
than it used to be, after so many Orcs and Goblins fell in the With the exception of the company’s Guide, more than
Battle of Five Armies, it’s still a long and arduous detour. one Player-hero may be assigned the same task (in other
words, there may be more than one character acting as
The fastest and safest route, which will be resoundingly Look-outs, or more than one hero going hunting regularly),
recommended by Heva, will take the Company westward but normally no character may assume more than one
out of the Eaves of the Forest, and then northward to the role at the same time (posing as the group’s Hunter AND
Forest Gate, where the Elf Path begins its winding course. Scout, for example).
Both Beli and Lifstan travelled to Woodmen-town along
the Elf Path, and know this is the best way back to Lake- If there’s more than one person assigned to a task then
town. Travel in the forest is slow and dangerous, but nominate a lead Scout, Hunter or Look-out. That character
beyond its reach the going is much easier, game and fresh is the one who makes the check and gains Advantage from
water are more plentiful. the assistance of the other player-heroes performing the
Help action on that task.
Assigning Tasks
Once the Company have agreed on their route they must If a task goes unfilled, any relevant checks for that task
decide who will do what on the journey. There are four which come up are taken with Disadvantage.
tasks to be assigned, each roughly summarising what they
will be doing for the length of the trip. The tasks divided Each character already has everything they need for travel
between the Company are: in their equipment list. If the company wish to do some
roleplaying to gather supplies in Woodmen-town then
Guide - In charge of all decisions concerning route once they are free to do so.
embarked, rest, and supplies. A good Guide has a high
Peril Rating the Peril Rating of the journey, which in this instance is
In a regular Adventures in Middle-earth adventure the 2. The result of the roll is used on the Embarkation Table
Loremaster would now calculate the Peril Rating of the below. This has been modified for this adventure. The full
journey, using a hexed and shaded Loremaster’s map to version on page 167 of the Adventures in Middle-earth
determine how tough the chosen route is. Player’s Guide contains a much wider variety of options.
For the purpose of this adventure the Peril Rating is 2. In this short scenario, featuring a relatively short,
interrupted journey, players won’t feel the full effect of the
Now the Guide must make an Embarkation Roll using journey rules (but should still have some fun!)
1d12. This represents a combination of actions and
knowledge – while others in the Company prepare Read, or paraphrase, the result to the players. The Guide
supplies and equipment, and look to the preparedness of should make a note of both the numbered result and its
their weapons, the Guide is busy asking around for local effects. The result may be referred to during the following
advice, thinking of previous journeys, consulting maps, parts of the journey. Gathering together everything they
recalling fragments of folk-wisdom and the like. need for their journey, the Company say their goodbyes to
the hard-eyed Woodmen of Woodmen-town and embark
The Embarkation Roll is modified as follows: the Guide’s on their adventure!
Proficiency Bonus plus half their Wisdom bonus, minus
Embarkation Table
2 or less: A Fell & Foreboding Start three. As a result, each member of the Company immediately
The Company sets out under a pall of doom. A sense of gain one level of Exhaustion.
foreboding and oppressive menace seems to loom at every
turn and misfortune appears to dog their steps. Tasks seem 7-8: Fine Weather
harder, and will remain so until the feeling of doom can be Each morning brings a beautiful sunrise that raises spirits
shaken off. As a result, each character receives 1 point of and fills all who see it with hope for the day ahead, when
Shadow and all rolls taken during Journey Events are made rain falls it is cooling and soothing to a weary traveller, the
with Disadvantage until a roll is successfully made, at which wind seems to be no more than a light breeze and snow or
point the dark mood will lift for that hero. frost sparkle beneath clear, bright skies, creating majestic
and breath taking vistas. As a result, each member of the
3-4: The Keen Eyes of the Enemy Company may ignore the first level of Exhaustion that they
The Company has the misfortune to have chosen a path accrue during this journey.
upon which fell creatures and evil men are more likely to be
encountered. Depending upon their stature among the Free 9-10: Paths Both Swift and True
Peoples of Middle-earth, it is possible that they have come Whether as a result of consulting good quality maps, referring
to the attention of agents of the Enemy. As a result, they will to the knowledge of local travellers or simply due to an innate
need to work hard to avoid encountering those who would knack for finding the easiest path, the Guide has planned
wish to do them harm: a brooding feeling of danger seems a route that will allow the company to travel swiftly and
to pervade their senses throughout the journey, as if unseen directly to its destination. Rolls on the Journey Events table
eyes watch them at every turn. Modify all results on the are modified by +1.
Journey Events tables by +1 and the first roll made during
these encounters should be made with Disadvantage. 11 or more: With Hopeful Hearts & Clear Purpose
The Company embarks with light hearts and a sense of hope.
5-6: Foul Weather They are resolute and determined to cleave to their path,
The rain falls constantly, the wind chills to the bone, the sun regardless of hardship or setback. Accordingly, each member
beats down unrelentingly, frost numbs toes and fingers. Rest of the Company has Advantage until the first time they fail an
is hard to find, sleep is elusive and every mile walked feels like ability check during this journey.
12
Part 3: ALong the Road
In the full rules it would be possible, depending on the

3-- Part route taken, to experience up to 4 events on this journey,
and each has a chance of affecting the next.
Along the Road The Loremaster should now roll 1d12, modified by any
result from the Embarkation roll that gave a modifier
The Embarkation table will have provided some and look up the result on the Journey Events Table below.
information for the departure of the Company from
Woodmen-town. Hopefully they are leaving in good In all cases, the DC of checks made during a journey is
spirits. But perhaps they must endure poor weather, or a determined by adding the Peril Rating of the journey
sense of impending doom. Whichever way they depart, to a base of 12. The Peril Rating for this journey is 2,
they set out on the road out of Woodmen-town, through so the base DC for checks on this journey is 14.
the Eaves of Mirkwood.
In the full rules, Journey Events provide multiple
Travel in Middle-earth is both a core aspect of the suggestions for possible outcomes, so they can be reused
setting, and an opportunity to build atmosphere and a many times over. Here we have selected just one possible
sense of place. To help with this, games of Adventures in option for each result in this adventure.
Middle-earth use the Journey Events table. These rolls
should be interspersed with some general description
of the landscape the Company are heading through. Do
Ideas for things seen on the road
add in some description to the journey that will have
no mechanical effect, but which serves to heighten the Your journey passes through a wide field strewn with
atmosphere and enjoyment of playing in Middle-earth. grey boulders and deer running between them in the
distance.
In the novels, Tolkien takes great pains to describe the
sights and sounds of the landscape, with a great fondness Your Company hikes past a stand of great emerald
for trees, colours, the weather, flora and fauna. The ash trees, one of their number fallen years before,
description of the scenery often evokes a mood or covered in moss, the others inclined towards their
atmosphere – be it melancholy, numinous, curious, fallen comrade.
or reinforcing to the idea that this is an ancient and
Using many fords you cross over the various courses
mysterious place. Invite the players to describe how
of a branching stream that rises and sinks through the
their characters approach traveling to reinforce their
heather covered hillsides.
characters within the setting. All of this adds to the feeling
of being in Middle-earth.
The road passes through great copses of ancient trees,
running one into another, pierced by clearings thick
As mentioned, between these descriptions come Journey
with bracken.
Events, rolled on the Journey Events table. These give an
encounter to play through, and often result in adding The path changes through the day. In the morning it
modifiers to the success of the Journey, or giving the was little more than a track used by wild sheep, deer
Player-heroes some bonus. If they’re unlucky they risk and goats. By lunchtime it is composed of great dressed
negative modifiers and Exhaustion. slabs of grey stone, risen and broken now, but clearly
carefully placed by ancient hands long ago.
How many rolls are made is determined by the length
of the Journey, and the terrain it passes through. For the
purposes of this short adventure there will be just one
randomly determined Journey Event, with many possible
results removed from the full table.
13
Journey Events Table

1/2 2 (or less): An Obstacle If all members of the Company are successful, they receive
An ancient stone bridge across a steep gorge and fast flowing a +1 bonus to the Guide’s Arrival roll. If all fail, the Guide’s
stream has collapsed, cutting off the path ahead. The Arrival roll incurs a -1 penalty.
Company must work together to make a safe crossing. The
Guide must make a Wisdom (Survival) ability check and 5-6: A Hunt 1/8
each of the other Company members must make their choice The Hunter sees tracks left by some deer that would likely
of Wisdom (Survival) or Strength (Athletics) ability check. prove a far better meal than their travelling rations.
If all of the checks are successful, the Company has worked The Hunter must make a Wisdom (Survival) ability check
well together, making the crossing and feeling a sense of to hunt down this game. If the roll is successfully made by 5
satisfaction from their unity. As a result, the Guide’s Arrival or more, the prey is brought down and a great feast is had,
roll will benefit from a +1 modifier. restoring one level of Exhaustion and giving a +1 bonus to
the Guide’s Arrival roll.
If half or more of the checks are successful, the crossing
is made with some difficulty and no bonus or penalty is If the roll is successful, the Company enjoy a hearty meal
incurred. and each may remove one level of Exhaustion.
If less than half of the rolls are successful, but not all fail, the If the roll fails, the hunt was unsuccessful and the Company
Company has struggled to overcome the obstacle and each spend a hungry night, resulting in each immediately gaining
of them immediately gains a level of Exhaustion. a level of Exhaustion.
If all the rolls fail, the company is forced to backtrack to bypass If the Hunter fails their roll by 5 or more, the hunt was a
the obstacle. Each of them suffers a level of exhaustion and disaster, pulling the Company off course and leaving them
the Guide’s Arrival roll is subject to a -1 penalty. with nothing to show for their efforts but sore feet and
growling bellies. As a result, each gains a level of Exhaustion
1/2 3-4: The Wonders of Middle-earth and the Guide’s Arrival roll becomes subject to a -1 penalty.
The Company finds itself presented with a awesome vista:
toward the end of their day’s travel a spectacular sunset glows 7-8: A Fine Spot for a Camp 1/8
across the tops of the trees, illuminating the surrounding The Scout spots a location that has the potential to be a safe
area in with a rich golden light. Everything appears in sharp and comfortable place to make camp. It is an ancient, ruined
focus. building, tumbledown, but easily defensible, and with plenty
of fallen wood for a fire within. Camping here allows the
Each member of the Company must make a Wisdom check Company to rest a little easier on their journey. The Scout
or Intelligence (Investigation) check (their choice). must make an Investigation check as the Company draw
close to the site.
If successful, they see the beauty of the scene and feel
invigorated, immediately recovering one level of Exhaustion. If the roll succeeds by 5 or more the camp site is all the
Company could have hoped for, and they may benefit from
If unsuccessful, they instead see the sheer expanse of the a long rest in addition to recovering a level of Exhaustion. As
Wild; hard paths yet to be walked, steep and daunting hills an added bonus, the Guide will receive a +1 modifier to their
to be climbed and immediately suffer a level of exhaustion. Arrival roll.
14
Part 3: Along the Road
If the roll is simply successful, the Company has an Company fail their saving throws, a -1 modifier must be
undisturbed night, and if needed each may recover a level applied to the Guide’s Arrival roll.
of Exhaustion.
11 (or more): A Place Touched by the Shadow 1/8
If the roll fails, the campsite proves to be less than it might The essence of something dark and terrible lingers in
have been. The Company spends a restless night, beset by a place the Company pass through. It is the site of some
feelings that they are being watched perhaps, or discovering ancient battle, haunted still by the shades of the fallen. That
that the spot they have chosen is rocky and uncomfortable or said, even the darkest of Shadows may hide something
prone to flooding. They awake weary and dispirited and gain bright and good. The Look-out must make an Intelligence
a level of Exhaustion. The night is a poor one and the only (Investigation) check to become aware of the darkness
memories they carry with them of the camp are those of hard surrounding this area before the Company blunders too
knocks and a final, unfulfilling rest. The Guide’s Arrival roll deeply into it.
is subject to a -1 modifier.
If the roll is a success by 5 or more, the Company witness
1/2 9-10: A Lingering Memory of Times Long Past some sign that reaffirms their hope in the struggle against
The Company witnesses, in the distance, a travelling the Enemy. Perhaps they see evidence of the downfall of
company of Elves, making their way towards the Grey whatever evil thing once lived here, perhaps bright sunlight
Havens in the West. The Elves are too far away for the bursts through brooding clouds to bathe the darkened place
Player-heroes to catch up with them, and the Elves seem in bright light, lifting the spirits of all who witness it.
to melt away into the mist. With good fortune and a light
heart, the Company will be uplifted by this sight, sensing Whatever the reason, each member of the Company
something hopeful for the future in this glimpse into the may remove one point of Shadow and gain Inspiration.
past. With poor fortune, the Company will be filled with a Additionally, the Guide will receive a +1 bonus to their
sense of doom, seeing the decay of lost glory and the end of Arrival roll.
hope.
On a successful roll, they manage to avoid the pervasive
Each member of the Company should make a Wisdom sense of corruption that lingers here and may count
check. If successful, they are filled with hope regarding their themselves lucky. Accordingly, the Guide receives a +1 bonus
journey and their struggles against the Shadow and gain to their Arrival roll.
Inspiration. If they make the roll by 5 or more they are so
positively affected by the sight that they may also remove If the Look-out fails their roll, the Company has wandered
a level of Exhaustion. Additionally, if at least half of the into the heart of the area and feels the dark nature of the
Company is successful, a +1 modifier may be applied to the place touch their hearts. Each hero must make a DC 15
Guide’s Arrival roll. Wisdom saving throw to to avoid gaining a point of Shadow.
With a failed roll, they see only the fleeting nature of life and If the Look-out’s roll fails by 5 or more, some dark thing
the fall of all that is good, and must make a DC 15 Wisdom still lurks here, ancient and evil, and the Company have
saving throw to avoid gaining 2 points of Shadow. disturbed its slumber… Something terrifying begins to
unearth itself, and the Company must flee in great haste,
If they fail the roll by 5 or more, they feel morose and wearied gaining an additional level of Exhaustion each, and each
by the scene and suffer a level of Exhaustion in addition to gaining Disadvantage on their next skill check.
the Shadow points. Additionally, if more than half of the
15
nature of their discovery until they are upon it. A convenient

- Part4- handhold might suddenly be revealed as the nose of the
statue. Another Perception check reveals a giant paw print
Ambush! in the mud just off the path, close to the fallen stone head.
A Shadow-lore check will identify it as belonging to a Warg
– the oversized wolf-like ally of Goblins.
The party encounter wandering Dwarves
and both are ambushed by Goblins... As the Player-heroes investigate this, and perhaps begin
to wonder what else they might find here, or if there might
be a suitable campsite nearby in the ruins, the sun dips at
After a few days on the road, it’s time for things to get lively. last out of sight, and blue twilight falls.
Rather than a random Journey Event, this next encounter
is a plotted part of the adventure. It’s up to you whether The air is split with a series of shrill shrieks. A rasping horn
you give the players the impression that this is occurring blast sounds tunelessly nearby, and a shout of “Baruk
randomly or not. Khazâd! Khazâd ai-mênu!” echoes through the trees.
As the day’s travel comes to an end, the sun westering In the next clearing, the Company sees a small group
behind the larch trees that run close to the path on either of Dwarves locked in battle with a group of Goblins. As
side, the Player-heroes begin to catch sight of ancient the heroes advance, from the thickets around them burst
carved stones amongst the trunks and roots. Goblins, spears at the ready, spittle flying from their
snaggle-toothed mouths. Have the Goblins make a single
As they walk, the sporadically appearing fallen stones are Stealth check against the best passive Perception of the
seen more frequently, and the Company realise they are in heroes. If successful, the heroes are Surprised for the first
the ruins of some ancient settlement. round of combat.
A successful Wisdom (Perception) check gives up a giant There is a Goblin for each Player-hero, and they must fight.
carved head of some ancient Mannish king, roots and
moss lying thick across his troubled brow. An unsuccessful The battleground contains a fallen tree to climb up onto to
Perception check means the Company does not realise the make things interesting:
Part 4: Ambush!
• A fallen tree provides total cover from ground level. Whether you want to run this battle to the last Goblin, or
• Use of a full movement action allows a creature to have them throw down their scimitars and flee when loss
climb onto a fallen tree, allowing Advantage on attack seems inevitable is up to you – the players might enjoy a
rolls as long as they stay on the tree. Jumping down is decisive victory and the chance to use all their powers,
considered normal movement. or they may appreciate advancing the story more quickly.
• Creatures on a tree trunk gain a +2 modifier to a shove Use your best judgement. As the heroes achieve victory, so
action on opponents below. do the beset dwarves.
Allow and encourage the players to use the tree – it’s a

good idea to make fights in Middle-earth well rooted in
the scenery. The Adventures in Middle-earth Loremaster’s
Guide contains options for adding interesting scenery.
During the fight the heavens open and a heavy downpour
soaks everyone. Let the fight continue, adding more
Goblins as needed to make the players feel truly, although
briefly, threatened. Goblins are a mortal threat in Middle-
earth, not throwaway monsters to be harvested for XP!
Eaves of Mirkwood Goblin Soldier

Small Humanoid (Orc-kind)
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
11 (+0) 12 (+1) 8 (-1) 10 (+0) 8 (-1) 8 (-1)
Armour Class 14 (Orcish Leathers, shield)

Hit Points 7 (3d6-3)
Speed 30 ft
Skills Stealth +5
Senses darkvision 60 ft, passive Perception 9
Languages Orcish, Westron
Challenge 1/4 (50xp)
Nimble Escape. The Eaves of Mirkwood Goblin
can take the Disengage or Hide action as a bonus
action on each of its turns.
Sunlight Sensitivity. While in sunlight, the
Goblin Soldier has Disadvantage on attack rolls,
as well as on Wisdom (Perception) checks that Bags of Jewels and Gold
rely on sight.
Players might expect that slain foes have treasure to
Actions
be harvested. Goblins rarely carry much of interest,
Bent Sword. Melee Weapon Attack: +3 to hit, reach
and what they do carry is broken, foul or in some way
5ft, one target. Hit: 4 (1d6+1) slashing damage
inferior or flawed. Outside of this adventure, robbing
Spear. Melee or Ranged Weapon Attack: +2 to hit,
bodies, especially those of opponents not of the Enemy
reach 5ft or range 20/60 ft, one target.
could well cause the automatic gaining of a Shadow
Hit: 3 (1d6) piercing damage or 4 (1d8) piercing
point. Let your players know ahead of time if they
damage when used as a melee weapon.
could gain Shadow from their deeds.
17
his satchel, which he enjoys playing whenever there is a

- Part
5- chance to do so. Borri carries a set of wood working tools,
which he can turn to almost any fine task, be it carving
Celebration! toys, or whistles.
The Company celebrate with the Dwarves,

while enjoying some Middle-earth themed
roleplay.
Once the battle is done, the Dwarves thank the companions

and introduce themselves while they wipe down their axes
and swords. They are:
Snorri, the smith

The leader of the gang of three, Snorri is a snowy haired,
wily old Dwarf. He stands four feet tall. He wears a dark Borri speaks quickly, and often asks obvious questions.
grey cloak and has an eyepatch over his left eye. This His inexperience can make him seem less clever than
doesn’t stop him making good use of the gold hilted sword he actually is. Borri smokes a long stemmed pipe. Borri
that hangs from his baldric. His leather pack contains plain will make a point of shaking everyone’s hand a little too
but well-made smith’s tools. His good eye is like a bright eagerly, a little too quickly, for a little too long.
pebble, and it is clear that he doesn’t miss much.
Hár, the stone mason
The tallest of the three, Hár stands some four feet six
inches tall. He wears a blue cloak over a dull grey corslet
of mail. His hair is iron grey, and his full beard is kept
neatly combed. Hár carries an axe and a broad-bladed
knife hangs from his belt. In his knapsack he keeps a
leather roll of fine stone working tools, and a drum and
beater. He has a fine deep singing voice.
Snorri’s voice is a gravelly croak after years at the forge.

He is a thoughtful chap, not quick to anger or pass
judgement. He identifies the leader of the Company and
shakes their hand in greeting.
Borri, the whittler

Borri is the youngest of the trio, and stands at three feet,
nine inches in height. He wears a green hooded cloak
with a golden tassel on the hood. His hair and beard are Hár is an exceptional judge of character. He will listen
red, and shorter than is normally seen on a travelling more than he speaks, and when he does speak it is slow
Dwarf. Lively and inquisitive, he has a wooden whistle in and deep, and only when he has something of use to say.
18
Part 5: Celebration
Often he will simply nod or shake his head and suck on the wondrous sights of Erebor, since he was born on the
his short stemmed pipe. road. He longs to have a home in one place. Hár will not
give up his story easily, but he is returning to Erebor in the
When it comes to greetings, Hàr keeps his hands firmly in hope of finding his wife, lost to him for many years since
his belt. the coming of the Dragon, Smaug. He will not elaborate
on this sad story.
1 Ale and Smoke Rings and Roasted Pig
Snorri urges everyone to get out of the rain, and away Around the fire the following activities can be enjoyed.
from the scene of the battle, indicating that they have a There’s no need to do all of these – but do make sure the
safe camp nearby. The Dwarves can be trusted, and lead Company enjoy the roasted pig. If you have time there’s
the party out of the rain to the lee of a pile of ancient no reason not to play through all of the activities.
masonry and the roots of a fallen tree, where they’ve built
a fire and set a camp. Ale
The Dwarves produce a small keg of ale and open it in
A fat pig roasts on a spit above the fire; as soon as the celebration of the victory over the Goblins. Borri passes
Dwarves return to their camp with the Company, Borri round wooden cups, and everyone makes a toast to
hurries forward to get the spit turning again, in case the victory. Snorri offers another toast – to Borri, for catching
pig becomes blackened on one side. the delicious pig they’re all about to eat.
Snorri quickly gets the fire blazing again to ensure no

more Goblins come near, and the Dwarves set about
drying their cloaks and those of the Company before the
welcome blaze. The camp has plenty of logs and stones
on which to sit, and the Dwarves make everyone feel most
welcome.
This section of the adventure is a welcome break from

travel, and is intended to be much more reminiscent of
The Hobbit than The Lord of the Rings. The Company can
relax and have some fun roleplaying with the Dwarves.
Everyone should forget their troubles for a while.
The Dwarves will introduce themselves and explain that

they are wandering craftsmen. Like so many of their kind, For every mug of ale a player-hero drinks there is a chance
they have made their living wandering the highways of they will fall asleep on their watch later. Throughout the
Wilderland, taking whatever work they can find that fits evening’s celebration keep a note of how many cups of
their skills. While they talk, Borri will whittle away at a strong ale the characters have drunk. The Dwarves will
whistle for whichever Company member he likes the most, casually offer more drinks throughout the evening.
and will present it as a gift later in the evening – either
shyly if he feels any romantic connection, or boldly if he Riddles
gifts it in simple friendship. Hár loves a riddle. At some point in the evening he will
suddenly deliver a riddle in his deep sonorous voice, and
The Dwarves intend to cross Mirkwood and head for glare at the Company, daring them to answer before a
Erebor, the Lonely Mountain, now that the Dragon is dead. smile cracks his stern face.
They all have kin there, and are very keen to return home.
Snorri hopes to find his sons, from whom he was parted The party may well agree to enter into a riddle contest.
as they each sought work as a smith. Borri longs to see This can either be played out ad hoc, or Player-heroes can
19
employ Riddle skill checks to both know riddles and their will attempt to blow, and then make their attempt. Each
answers. A sheet of riddles is provided at the end of this smoker has 3 tries to score as many points as possible.
adventure to use as handouts where needed. Legend has it that different pipe weeds, and different kinds
of pipe can provide an advantage.
Singing
After several cups of ale have been enjoyed, and the Smoke rings are blown using either an experienced
Dwarves have asked the Company to tell some of their smoking (Wisdom) or naturally gifted smoking
stories, Hár will produce his drum, and Borri his whistle. (Dexterity) ability check. Of course, those proficient
They strike up a tune, and Hár sings this song: with the pipe benefit from their Proficiency Bonus. The
DC depends on the smoke ring attempted:
The Mountain was young, the valley green
Such a place they’d never seen
They came from far, they came from wide The Game of Smoke Rings
With hammer and pick they delved inside
Series of tiny rings DC 12 1 point
When Dúrin’s folk carved open a door Small, but perfectly
To the riches lying ‘neath Erebor DC 13 2 points
formed, spinning ring
A many-pillared hall of stone Medium sized ring,

They mined and dug out their new home through which flies a small DC 14 3 points
The delver dug, the pick gave sound ring
Rubies, emeralds, opals found The Grower DC 15 3 points
When Dúrin’s folk carved open a door The Shrinker DC 16 4 points

To the riches lying ‘neath Erebor The Giant’s Ring DC 17 5 points
A sturdy hearth, a golden throne The Dragon DC 18 8 points

Plates of gold, thick walls of stone
A row of warriors stout and proud
Girt for battle, heads unbowed Players of the game can choose to huff up a load of deep
breaths to lower both the Difficulty by one, and the resulting
When Dúrin’s folk carved open a door points for success by one. The Dwarves find this entirely
To the riches lying ‘neath Erebor laughable and amateurish behaviour, but will allow it.
None heard his wings, none felt his breath Snorri will gift the winner (even if it is himself!) with
But a hot North wind brought with it death an ornately carved pipe he’s been keeping for special
The lintel broke, the stone floor cracked occasions. Smoking this pipe gives excellent powers of
The treasures of heath and home were sacked concentration, and given the chance to smoke it, grants
the smoker a +1 bonus to a Riddle check once per long
When Dúrin’s folk carved open a door rest. It is also a great pipe to use in the Game of Smoke
To the riches lying ‘neath Erebor Rings, giving +1 to all rolls made as part of that game.
Smoke Rings Eating Roasted Pig

Snorri is an expert at blowing marvellous smoke rings. The highlight of the evening is the roasted pig. Cooked
After a few cups of ale, he produces his pipe, and the other over the fire, and well-tended by Borri, and eaten under
Dwarves follow suit. Dwarves of the Road play an ancient the open sky, the pork is absolutely delicious. This is by far
Game of Smoke Rings. They declare what shape they and away the best meal the Company have had since even
20
Part 6: Capture!
before they met at Woodmen-town. Everyone enjoying the

meal recovers all depleted Hit Dice, and removes all levels
of Exhaustion gained on the road.
- Part
6-
If anyone asks, Borri claims he caught the pig in a snare.
Capture!
With a successful DC 15 Intelligence (Investigation) or
Wisdom (Insight) check, a Player-hero can determine The characters are captured and taken into
that Borri’s lying – he didn’t catch the pig in a snare. custody at the nearby farmstead.
He actually found it in what he thought was someone
else’s snare: specifically, the staked rope near where the
Company fought the Goblins. It’s more likely that the The delicious pig which the Player-heroes will have
someone else left that pig tethered there… enjoyed so much the night before did not belong to the
Dwarves. It was raised by the folk of a nearby farmstead,
Bed Time and left staked out in the wilderness as an offering to
Once everyone has had a chance to talk with the Dwarves, placate a Warg-king named Greymuzzle Hob.
and enjoy some of the activities around the fire, eventually
comes time to sleep. If no one suggests setting a watch, Rowanhold
the Dwarves are feeling quite merry and are happy to Rowanhold is a fortified farmstead, inside a simple
wrap themselves in their cloaks and sleep unguarded. As palisade. There are no more than a score of inhabitants
the companions drift off into dreams, they seem to hear in total. They are close kin to the Beornings and the
distant angry howling – too far away to be a danger to Woodmen, but they kneel to no lord or master, and do not
them tonight, but enough to sow nightmares as they sleep. acknowledge Beorn or the Woodman-elders or any other
as their chief.
In the early hours of the morning, when the Player-hero
who has drunk the most ale is on watch, things take a The settlement is ruled by a matriarch, the mother and
darker turn... grandmother of many of those who dwell there. Gailavira
is in late middle age, but is clearly in good health, if a
little tired. She has seen the long seasons in the eaves of
Mirkwood wax and wane, and believed there was little
But my players hate this kind of fun! new under the sun. But in the last two years Rowanhold
Not every group is interested in singing songs, blowing has suffered increasingly ill fortune. Goblins are regularly
smoke rings or engaging in riddle contests. It is sighted around the fringes of their meagre fields. Parties
entirely possible that you are playing with a set of seeking timber, game and firewood were menaced, and
people who find this kind of thing uncomfortable, and more recently attacked. Several small-holders have been
play roleplaying games to enjoy a tactical challenge slain.
with a side order of resource management. Your party
might be all Boromirs and no Pippins! Their meagre livestock has been carried off by successive
Goblin raids, and most recently by a huge Warg, which
Fear not. Simply describe what they get up to, perhaps the villagers have named Greymuzzle Hob. They tried to
asking for some out of character suggestions of how hunt the monster, but it eluded them and killed two of
each character enjoys the evening, and gloss over the Gailavira’s sons.
whole thing. They have a marvellous time, blow smoke
rings, eat pork, drink ale, enjoy the company of the Rather than fight the beast, they came to an arrangement
Dwarves, and go to sleep satisfied. with the monster. Each month, they leave a pig out for
Hob to eat, and in exchange, the Warg spares them.
21
Now, the player-heroes are unwitting accomplices in a

theft, and have endangered Rowanhold. When the folk of
Rowanhold heard Greymuzzle Hob’s furious howls, they A Note on Playstyles
realised that someone had stolen their offering, breaking
Some players will not like this kind of event. It does
their bargain with the beast.
quite deliberately remove a lot of their agency for a
short time. Some players may need to feel like they
The holders have survived a long time in these unforgiving
have a chance to escape.
woods, and they are not without guile nor skill. Using
lassos of leather thongs, stout ropes and killing mallets
There are a couple ways to handle this. But if
from the slaughter house, the villagers mean to capture
necessary, it could be used as a goad to compel the
the thieves and bring them to justice.
Company to comply with clearing their names. Snorri
should be the mouth piece for this. "Stay your hands,
The Plan in Action friends, we have wronged these people. I have wronged
Whenever the Player-hero who drank the most ale is
these people". Then explain out of character that they
on watch, the villagers sneak into the camp. They are
now know they have been complicit in a crime, and it
struggling to stay awake, and only snooze for a moment,
will advance them towards a state of corruption if they
when the villagers are upon them. Throwing sacks over
attempt to dodge the circumstances - doubly so if they
the heads of anyone sleeping, and binding their prisoners
use violence. The Dwarves will be absolutely horrified
tight, there is no chance of escape.
if any of the Player-heroes attacks a villager.
The Dwarves do not awake from their slumber before they

Also remind the players that these folk are kin to the
are tied tight by the wily Woodmen.
Woodmen and the Beornings. If the player characters
flee, they will be seen as outlaws and bring shame to
Bound hand and foot, the Company and their new friends
their families.
are driven at spear point toward the village.
The farmstead itself looks poorly maintained. The palisade

- Part
7- is in need of repair in several places. More usually the
Player-heroes would expect to see smoke coming from every
Explain smoke hole of the settlement, but only a few seem to have
fires burning. The people they are pushed passed as they
yourselves! enter the gates are drawn and wan. They look tired, and
hungry. The Company are pushed into an empty building
and left, tied hand and foot, on the rush strewn floor.
An Audience with the village elder. The
heroes must decide how to explain At this point the Journey is well and truly over. The
their actions, and are introduced to an Company must make a roll (1d4) on the Arrival table
opportunity to help. below, applying any modifiers they may have accrued
during prior Journey Events.
The folk of Rowanhold want justice. They are good people
who have been unfairly wronged and endangered, not The Company receives an additional -1 to the roll to
malevolent foes. While the Company are treated roughly, represent the despair of being captured.
they are not beaten or deliberately hurt in any way.
As they are pushed and prodded and pulled by ropes Escape is difficult, but players will doubtless try. The
towards the farmstead they are disarmed, and their Dwarves discourage this, having heard the villagers say
possessions removed. the pig was stolen. They favour waiting the situation out,
and explaining. It is best not to drag this scene out – it is
Their captors will say little, beyond “You stole our pig”, the build-up to an Audience, rather than a situation the
“You shouldn’t have eaten our pig”, “That was our pig”, Company need to escape from. Moving the time forward
“Gailavira will decide what happens to you” rapidly will help with this.
Arrival Table
1 or less: Weary to Their Bones 3: Grimly Determined

In spite of last night’s festivities, the journey has taken a heavy The many leagues that the Company has travelled have filled
toll on the spirits of the Company. The memories of any good them with a sense of clear purpose regarding their goals,
fortune they may have experienced along the way now seem dark though the path ahead may be. As a result, the Guide
distant and intangible. Each member of the Company must will receive a +1 bonus to their next Embarkation roll.
make a DC 14 Wisdom saving throw to avoid receiving 2
points of Shadow. 4 or more: Inspired and filled with Hope.
The Journey has served to reaffirm the Company’s
2: Tall Tales and Great Deeds dedication to their struggles and to their bonds with each
In spite of their capture, the Company arrives at Rownahold other. Together they have weathered hardships, faced
with the tales of their journey on their lips, and their spirits dangers and persevered and their faith in themselves and
high. This joyous mood is contagious to all but the most dour each other seems unshakeable. As a result, each member
of folk they may encounter. Accordingly, the Company receives of the Company may remove 2 points of Shadow and gains
Advantage on all checks pertaining to social interaction. This Inspiration.
bonus will also apply if they should seek an Audience at their
destination. The bonus will remain until they fail at one of
these checks.
23
A while later a young man brings them some water and If the Company eavesdrop on the goings-on in the
bread, leaving it within reach, but not getting close enough farmstead outside, they hear Gailavira arrange for
to be attacked. He seems very frightened of the Company another pig to be brought out and shackled in the same
and the Dwarves. He hurriedly asks “Are you in league place as the first one. (This attempt to placate the Warg
with Greymuzzle Hob?” before rushing away without will come to nothing in Part 8, for Greymuzzle Hob is
waiting for an answer. Another man stands guard with an faithless and cruel, and was looking for an opportunity
old spear in the doorway. They leave, securing the door. to break its bargain with the farmstead and attack again.)
Eventually, as twilight begins to fall, a group of poor-

looking men and women enter the empty longhouse
prison, bearing a selection of rush torches, spears and
farming tools. They tell the Company that they are to
stand before Gailavira and explain their actions.
The characters are taken, still bound and unarmed, to the

largest longhouse at the centre of the farmstead.
If at any point during this Audience section, it looks as if

the player-heroes will forfeit their honour and attempt to
attack the villagers, then skip forward to Part 8: the Warg
will attack at that point.
The Audience 1/2

When a company of Player-heroes meet someone
important, or where the interaction is significant to
the plot, then the Audience rules come into play. These
rules provide structure, consistency, and allow a Player-
heroes’ origin and standing to come into effect. Usually
this occurs when a company of Player-heroes need to
request something from some kind of official, or powerful
personage, and the Loremaster doesn’t just want to rely
on their own judgement, or penalise those who’s strength
is not roleplaying in character.
The Dwarves are deeply regretful of their actions. If For the purposes of this adventure you’ll use a simplified
needed, their reactions to the situation can serve to guide version, tailored to this scenario – this isn’t a situation
the players into realising that they have done wrong and where the players approach in a neutral way requesting
must seek to put it right, rather than lash out or take aid – they are prisoners, trying to win their freedom.
vengeance on the village. Equally Gailavira is no fool, and realises there could be
something to be gained from them. Since everyone is level
Borri relates the story of how he found the pig. He thought 1 there won’t be much differentiation based on level – only
it was caught in some other hunter’s trap, and stealing on origin and ability scores.
that would have been crime enough, but he was hungry.
Recognising his good fortune, he quickly dispatched it, The Company are led and pushed into the centre of the
and that was that – pork for dinner. He now realises to smoky hall. A dais stands before the hearth, and on it sits
his shame he should have thought harder about where it a tall wooden chair. Furs are laid over it, and on them
came from. sits a proud grey haired woman. Her clothes, while not
24
fine looking to the eyes of an Elf, Barding or Dwarf, look an odd creature asking her for favours. Trotter also has
impressive enough to a Beorning or Woodman. The fabrics middling Intelligence, so isn’t a good bet at all. It’s up to
are died a deep red and orange, and they are edged with the players to figure this out.
inkle loom woven designs. A fur-trimmed cloak with a fine
square silver brooch sits on her shoulders. The result of this first check determines Gailavira’s initial
reaction and attitude towards the Company. This sets the
base DC for a Final Audience Check, which determines the
ultimate success (or failure) of the interaction.
Gailavira’s Starting Attitude on a

successful Intelligence (Traditions) check:
Culture Attitude DC for

(Character) final roll
Bardings (Lifstan) Generally Neutral DC 12
Beornings (Beran) Generally Friendly DC 11
Dwarves (Beli) Generally Neutral DC 12
Elves of Mirkwood
Generally Friendly DC 11
(Caranthiel)
Hobbits of the Shire

Unknown DC 13
She speaks directly to the Company, in a clear well-spoken (Trotter)
voice. Her piercing grey eyes are hard to hold for long. Woodmen
Clearly this is a woman who has seen a lot, and lived to Generally Favoured DC 10
(The Bride)
tell the tale.
“Who are you to come here and steal our pig? You will tell
me your names and intention here in our lands, and if I Gailavira’s Starting Attitude on an
do not like what you have to say I shall keep your swords unsuccessful Intelligence (Traditions) check:
here, and cast you out without them. Make me angry and
I will keep you here too. Speak.” Culture Attitude DC for
(Character) final roll
One member of the Company must make a DC 15 Bardings (Lifstan) Generally Askance DC 13
Intelligence (Traditions) check to to introduce the group.
Beornings (Beran) Generally Neutral DC 12
The choice of which hero will make the initial introduction Dwarves (Beli) Generally Askance DC 13
is an important one. Gailavira will respond better to a
familiar face like a fellow Woodman or a Beorning. Equally Elves of Mirkwood
Generally Neutral DC 12
(Caranthiel)
though, it is important to be able to pass the check. The
Bride is not the most quick-witted of the Company, and Hobbits of the Shire Generally
DC 14
Beran is not much cleverer. Caranthiel on the other hand (Trotter) Mistrustful
has a good chance of being looked upon favourably as
Woodmen
an Elf of Mirkwood, and has a high Intelligence. At the Generally Friendly DC 11
(The Bride)
other end of the scale, Gailavira has never seen a Hobbit
before, and there is very little chance that she’ll trust such
25
In this Audience, the Player-heroes must do their best to

convince Gailavira that they are of good character and
have something to offer. The better they can do this, the
Modifiers
better they will fare. The Company disrespects her authority
The Company disrespects her people
Playing Gailavira -2 The Company refuses to see reason
As a mature and wily leader, Gailavira is neither easily The Company mocks or insults the memory of
Gailavira’s dead sons
swayed, nor stupid. She is aware that to keep her people
united justice must be seen to be done this day. However The Company shows contrition
The Company speaks reason
she is not naïve. She knows that the Company were
The Company makes an offer of payment
probably simply hungry, and have been thoughtless more The Company defers to Gailavira’s authority
than actively malicious. With a show of strength, this +1 The Company mention their desire to do good and
could be an opportunity to either assert her power, or help King Bard
perhaps if the Company prove trustworthy, do better for The Company respectfully suggests that making
offerings to the Warg was the wrong course of
the village. action
All this means that she will want to make the Company The Company makes Gailavira look good
The Company makes Gailavira look wise
sweat, to assert her position. But she will want to find a
The Company makes a reasonable claim of
good resolution – perhaps money or goods for the loss kinship, either spiritual or blood ties
of the pig, or even better, have these fighting men and The Company makes an offer of assistance to
+2
women defeat Greymuzzle Hob. defend the village, or help rebuild it
The Company blames the dwarves for everything
and argue that they have nothing to answer for
This also means, out of character, the Company will get a (abandoning the dwarves like this is worth at least
scolding, but are unlikely to face being locked up unless 1 Shadow point apiece).
they foolishly chose to mock her in her own hall. This is
also a good taste of the way things work in Middle-earth.
Characters are not simply free to do anything they want, Once the conversation is wrapping up, the companions may
and bonds of honour and service are important dramatic choose who will make the final roll from those who have
hooks. spoken, using the DC generated by their introduction, and
adjusted by any modifiers accrued during the audience.
The Company and their players should realise they have
done wrong, and aim to make amends. Gailavira could
become a powerful friend. She will not tolerate being
Results
treated as a fool, nor disrespected in her own hall. It is
clear that if the Company is foolish enough to threaten Gailavira determines to keep the party hos-
real violence, the villagers will cut them down with spears Failure tage. As they are led away, skip forward to
and pitchforks. Part 8.
Success Gailavira decides to release the Company but

During the Audience, the following modifiers to the final by 0-2 hold onto half of their goods in tithe for the pig
roll may be earned by the party. Each band may only
Success Gailavira decides to release the Company
be earned once, but all bands may be earned – so if the by 3-4 with all their goods in return for a boon
Company disrespected her authority, her people and
refuse to see reason, they only gain a single -2 modifier. Gailavira decides to release the company and
Success become their patron, giving them adventure
If during the audience they change their tack, show
by 6+ hooks in the future, and giving them the
contrition and make an offer of payment they will receive chance to open Rowanhold as a sanctuary
one +1 to their final roll in addition to the -2.
26
Part 8: Warg Attack!
- Part 8- The fire in the hearth and all torches in the hall are
initially extinguished by the Warg’s entrance – this could
Warg Attack! be the result of dark sorcery, or simply the gust of wind
from the doors being flung open. The torches are out, but
the hearth fire is smouldering.
The climax of the adventure sees the

characters fight for their lives against a Greymuzzle Hob
vengeful Warg. Large Monstrosity (Warg-kind)
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
18 (+4) 16 (+3) 16(+3) 7 (-2) 12 (+1) 9 (-1)
As Gailavira delivers her judgement a shout goes up
outside the hall, followed by the sounds of commotion Armor Class 14 (natural armour)
and running feet beyond. All inside look around, suddenly Hit Points 42 (5d10+15)
nervous; all thoughts of admiration for their wise leader Speed 50 ft.
forgotten in a moment. Then comes a terrible sound of
Skills Perception +3, Stealth +5
breaking timber and a baleful, roaring howl fills the air,
Senses darkvision 60 ft., passive Perception 14
chilling marrow-deep. A voice speaks from the darkness:
Languages Wargspeech, Westron, Orkish
Challenge 2 (450 XP)
“Gailavira! I am hungry now, and your scrawny pigs will
not satisfy me. Send out your children, Gailavira. Send Fear Aura. Any creature hostile to Greymuzzle
out your bravest sons, so I may kill them too and drink Hob that starts its turn within 10 feet of it must
their hot blood. Send out your suckling babies and their make a DC 11 Wisdom saving throw, unless
mewling mothers, so I may eat my fill. Send them out, or Greymuzzle Hob is Incapacitated. On a failed save,
you all die.” the creature is Frightened until the start of its next
turn. If a creature’s saving throw is successful,
Greymuzzle Hob! Greymuzzle Hob is come! the creature is immune to Greymuzzle Hob’s Fear
Aura for the next 24 hours.
No matter the outcome of the Audience, Gailavira calls for Fear of Fire. Greymuzzle Hob is fearful of fire. If a
the Company to be cut loose and their weapons returned torch or other flame comes within 10 feet of it then
from where they were stored behind the dais. “Can you Greymuzzle Hob suffers Disadvantage on its attack
fight? If not, learn now! If yes, then we draw swords rolls. In addition, Greymuzzle Hob is not able to
together this day, be you friend or foe!” and in her hand is use its Pack Tactics ability.
a shining blade of rippled steel. Keen Hearing and Smell. Greymuzzle Hob has
advantage on Wisdom (Perception) checks that
And from outside comes a dread voice in answer. “So be rely on hearing or smell.
it.” The doors of the hall burst open, and in rushes the Pack Tactics. Greymuzzle Hob has Advantage on
night and with it Greymuzzle Hob. an attack roll against a creature if at least one of
Greymuzzle Hob’s allies (including Goblins) is within
Greymuzzle Hob is a fearsome black-furred Warg, a giant 5 feet of the creature and the ally isn’t incapacitated.
wolf, with burning coals for eyes. Its coat is matted and Actions
slick with old blood. It reeks of death. Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5ft, one
target. Hit: 11 (2d6+4) piercing damage. If the target
Greymuzzle Hob is accompanied by many Goblins, who is a creature, it must make a DC 13 Strength saving
will occupy the Dwarves and the fighters of Rowanhold throw or be knocked Prone.
and mostly don’t engage the Player-heroes directly. If
you have more than four Player-heroes, add one Goblin
Soldier to the fray per hero above four.
27
It is possible for the company to relight torches and The Dwarves decide to stay a while in the village to help
stoke up the fire to trigger Greymuzzle Hob’s fear of fire. with repairs. They will bid a fond farewell to the Company,
Relighting a torch or stirring the fire takes an action and and express a wish to see them again. Friendships like this
requires a DC 10 Dexterity (Sleight of Hand) check. are key to tying characters into Middle-earth as more than
wandering mercenaries.
2 When the battle is over, everything has changed. The
Company is no longer looked on with suspicion or scorn. Gailavira bids them farewell, thanking them for their
All debts are repaid, and the folk of Rowanhold are nothing efforts. All punishments are forgotten, and if they secured
but grateful. Gailavira orders the Warg skinned, and sets her as a patron, she will doubtless see them again, and
in motion the repairing of the broken palisade. Snorri have quests for them to undertake in the rebuilding of the
and his companions agree to aid in the rebuilding. The farmstead. But for now they must head on to the Forest
Company will be most welcome to help, or to take their Gate, and then into Mirkwood.
rest in the great hall.
That night a celebration is held. What meagre stores the

village holds are opened, and a simple feast is enjoyed by
all. Snorri teaches the villagers the Game of Smoke Rings,
and songs are sung late into the night.
9-- Part
the Wandering
wizard
The next morning, in the closing moments
of the scenario, the party meet Gandalf,
and have the chance to accompany him
into Mirkwood.
A gentle spring dawn casts a fragile yellow light across the As they approach the road that leads to the Forest Gate,
farmstead. Serious repairs to the palisade begin with the they see another traveller ahead of them on the trail,
rising of the sun, and the sound of axes and mallets wakes leaning on a staff as he walks wearily along the road. He
the company. They slept in Gailavira’s hall as honoured is an old, old man, wears a tall pointed blue hat, a long
guests. grey cloak, and a silver scarf. He has a long white beard
and bushy eyebrows that stick out beyond the brim of his
Realising that our heroes will be keen to continue their hat.
journey, and somewhat keen to forget imprisoning them,
the villagers begin to appear at the repaired doors of the “Your path goes East, I think, and so does mine today. 2
hall with gifts for their journey, supplies for the road, May I join you on the Road?”
clearly meagre by normal standards, but great gifts from
so poor a people. And with that the curtain falls.
28
Riddle sheet
The poor have it, the rich need it and if you Glittering points that downward thrust,
eat it you ’ll die. What is it ? Sparkling spears that never rust.
- N othing - - I cicle -
What always runs but never walks, often A head have I, a tail have I, no body have I,
murmurs , never talks , has a bed but never what am I?
sleeps , has a mouth but never eats ?
- A coin -
- A river -
A box without hinges, lock or key, yet golden

It cannot be seen, it weighs nothing, but when treasure lies within .
put into a barrel , it makes it lighter . What is it ?
What is it ?
- A n egg -
- A hole -
R eaching stiffly for the sky,

The more you have of it, the less you see. I bare my fingers when it ’s cold
What is it ? I n warmth I wear an emerald glove
A nd in between I dress in gold
- Darkness -
-A tree -
The one who makes it, sells it. The one who
buys it, never uses it. The one that F eed me and I live, give me drink and I die.
uses it never knows that he has it. What am I?
What is it ?
- Fire -
- A coffin -
Alive with no breath,

Three lives have I. A s chilly as death,
S oft enough to soothe the skin, N ever thirsty, E ver drinking ,
Light enough to caress the sky, Clad in mail, N ever clinking ,
Hard enough to break rocks . D rowns on dry land,
Thinks an island, Is a mountain,
- Water - Thinks a fountain, Is a puff of air .
- A fish -
Loremaster’s Map
30
Maps
Player’s Map
31
The Battle in the Clearing
• A fallen tree provides total cover from ground level.

• Use of a full movement action allows a creature to climb onto a fallen tree, allowing
Advantage on attack rolls as long as they stay on the tree. Jumping down is
considered normal movement.
• Creatures on a tree trunk gain a +2 modifier to a shove action on opponents below.
The Battle in the Hall
TM
The Road Goes Ever On™ is a beautiful collection of 4 large format journey maps for Adventures in Middle-earth,
that comes with a 32 page supplement packed with setting information, rules and guidance on making the most
of your journeys.
Each beautiful map is double-sided, with one set of player maps, and a set of hexed maps for Loremasters,
covering known Middle-earth.
The handy supplement includes:
• Earning Experience on the road

• Maps for campsites in case there’s trouble
• Pre-made monster groups to drop into your journeys
• Rules on avoiding the Enemy in the Wild CB72305
• Guidance for creating ruins along the way 978-0-85744-322-9
• New rules for generating non-player travellers www.cubicle7.co.uk
• And more!
The One Ring, Middle-earth, The Hobbit, The Lord of the Rings, and the characters, items, events and places therein are trademarks or registered trademarks
of The Saul Zaentz Company d/b/a Middle-earth Enterprises and are used under license by Sophisticated Games Ltd and their respective licensees. All rights
reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical,
photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior permission of the publishers.
Grappled
• A grappled creature’s speed becomes 0, and it can’t benefit
Companion and Challenge Rating from any bonus to its speed.
Experience Award Table • The condition ends if the grappler is Incapacitated (see the
condition).
Challenge XP Challenge XP
• The condition also ends if an effect removes the Grappled
0 0 or 10 14 11,500 creature from the reach of the grappler or grappling effect.
1/8 25 15 13,000
1/4 50 16 15,000 Incapacitated
• An incapacitated creature can’t take actions or reactions.
1/2 100 17 18,000
1 200 18 20,000 Miserable
2 450 19 22,000 • A Miserable creature has Disadvantage on attack rolls.
3 700 20 25,000 • The creature automatically fails Charisma ability checks.
• A Miserable character can temporarily counter the effects
4 1,100 21 33,000
of the Miserable condition by spending Inspiration. Using
5 1,800 22 41,000 Inspiration removes the Disadvantage on one attack roll,
6 2,300 23 50,000 or enables the player-hero to make a Charisma ability
7 2,900 24 62,000 check at Disadvantage.
8 3,900 25 75,000
Paralysed
9 5,000 26 90,000 • A paralysed creature is Incapacitated (see the condition)
10 5,900 27 105,000 and can’t move or speak.
11 7,200 28 120,000 • The creature automatically fails Strength and Dexterity
saving throws.
12 8,400 29 135,000
• Attack rolls against the creature have Advantage.
13 10,000 30 155,000 • Any attack that hits the creature is a critical hit if the
attacker is within 5 feet of the creature.
 
Poisoned
Exhaustion • A Poisoned creature has Disadvantage on attack rolls and
ability checks.
Level Effect Prone
1 Disadvantage on ability checks • A prone creature’s only movement option is to crawl,
2 Speed halved unless it stands up and thereby ends the condition.
3 Disadvantage on attack rolls and saving throws • The creature has Disadvantage on attack rolls.
4 Hit point maximum halved • An attack roll against the creature has Advantage if the
5 Speed reduced to 0 attacker is within 5 feet of the creature. Otherwise the
6 Death attack roll has Disadvantage.
Restrained
A creature suffers the effect of its current level of Exhaustion as • A restrained creature’s speed becomes 0, and it can’t
well as all lower levels. For example, a creature suffering level 2 benefit from any bonus to its speed.
Exhaustion has its speed halved and has Disadvantage on ability • Attack rolls against the creature have Advantage, and the
checks. Finishing a long rest reduces a creature’s Exhaustion creatures attack rolls have Disadvantage.
level by 1, provided that the creature has also ingested some • The creature has Disadvantage on Dexterity saving throws.
food and drink.
Stunned
Conditions • A stunned creature is Incapacitated (see the condition),
can’t move, and can speak only falteringly.
Blinded • The creature automatically fails Strength and Dexterity throws.
• A Blinded creature can’t see and automatically fails any • Attack rolls against the creature have Advantage.
ability check that requires sight.
• Attack rolls against the creature have Advantage, and the Unconscious
creature’s attack rolls have Disadvantage. • An unconscious creature is Incapacitated (see the
condition), can’t move or speak, and is unaware of its
Deafened surroundings.
• A Deafened creature can’t hear and automatically fails any • The creature drops whatever it’s holding and falls Prone.
ability check that requires hearing. The creature automatically fails Strength and Dexterity
saving throws.
Frightened • Attack rolls against the creature have Advantage.
• A frightened creature has Disadvantage on ability checks and • Any attack that hits the creature is a critical hit if the attack
attack rolls whole the source of its fear is within line of sight. is within 5 feet of the creature.
• The creature can’t willing move closer to the source of its fear.
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TM

Accessories every Loremaster needs to recruit players

A two hour scenario isn’t long enough to show off every

If you’re running short on time, either run Part 4 as a

Who What Where

The dragon Smaug is dead, slain by Bard the Bowman,

• Time to read through this adventure – it’ll be tough to

These opportunities are optional, to be made at the

Rules Changes in Brief

Running the Adventure Pregenerated Characters

Part 7: Explain Yourselves!

Part 8: Warg Attack! Lifstan, son of Leiknir – Barding

Despair: I’m certain that when I find what I am looking

Why Lifstan begins the game at Woodmen-town:

Beli – Dwarf of the Lonely

Ability scores: High Constitution, high Dexterity

Why Beran begins the game at Woodmen-town: You

Caranthiel – Elf of Mirkwood Scholar

Why Caranthiel begins the game at Woodmen-town:

Ability scores: High Dexterity, high Constitution

occasional travelling merchant lays out their goods,

The Dusky River that runs to the east of the town is

charcoal in a variety of sizes. He’s spent far too long

• Events are played through, noting down the

Don’t Leave The Path!

In the full rules it would be possible, depending on the

Journey Events Table

nature of their discovery until they are upon it. A convenient

Allow and encourage the players to use the tree – it’s a

Eaves of Mirkwood Goblin Soldier

Armour Class 14 (Orcish Leathers, shield)

his satchel, which he enjoys playing whenever there is a

The Company celebrate with the Dwarves,

Once the battle is done, the Dwarves thank the companions

Snorri, the smith

Snorri’s voice is a gravelly croak after years at the forge.

Borri, the whittler

Snorri quickly gets the fire blazing again to ensure no

This section of the adventure is a welcome break from

The Dwarves will introduce themselves and explain that

A many-pillared hall of stone Medium sized ring,

When Dúrin’s folk carved open a door The Shrinker DC 16 4 points

A sturdy hearth, a golden throne The Dragon DC 18 8 points

Smoke Rings Eating Roasted Pig

before they met at Woodmen-town. Everyone enjoying the

Now, the player-heroes are unwitting accomplices in a

The Dwarves do not awake from their slumber before they

The farmstead itself looks poorly maintained. The palisade

1 or less: Weary to Their Bones 3: Grimly Determined

Eventually, as twilight begins to fall, a group of poor-

The characters are taken, still bound and unarmed, to the

If at any point during this Audience section, it looks as if

The Audience 1/2

Gailavira’s Starting Attitude on a

Culture Attitude DC for

Bardings (Lifstan) Generally Neutral DC 12

Beornings (Beran) Generally Friendly DC 11

Dwarves (Beli) Generally Neutral DC 12

Hobbits of the Shire

In this Audience, the Player-heroes must do their best to