Adventure PDF

aGe 12 +
dreams of the red Wizards ™
dead in thay ™
an adventure for CharaCters of 6 th – 8 th LeveL

Scott Fitzgerald gray
Jacob Stanley (order #5863286)

Credits Introduction
Design Dead in Thay is a D&D Next adventure for 6th- to 8th-
Scott Fitzgerald Gray level characters. The adventure is designed for play
at home or in stores as part of the D&D Encounters
Development program. Participants in D&D Encounters receive
Chris Sims
supplementary material, including maps, stickers for
Editing tracking progress, NPC cards, and a unique d20 corre-
Ray Vallese sponding to this adventure. (If you use this adventure in
D&D Group Manager a home game, the material for playing with and coordi-
Mike Mearls nating multiple groups is irrelevant to you.)
This season of D&D Encounters kicks off on May
D&D Producer
10 – 11 with a cooperative launch weekend event, and
Greg Bilsland
then runs every Wednesday from May 14 until July 23.
Senior Creative Director Dead in Thay is a tribute to Tomb of Horrors, The
Jon Schindehette Ruins of Undermountain, and other killer dungeons. The
Art Director monsters, traps, and hazards in the adventure create a
Kate Irwin deadly challenge.
Graphic Designer
Trish Yochum
Cover Illustration
Background
Near the village of Daggerford on the Sword Coast, the
Tyler Jacobson
Red Wizards of Thay have plotted to extend the evil reach
Cartography of their land and its master—the lich lord Szass Tam.
Mike Schley Heeding the call of Sir Isteval, groups of heroes recently
Interior Illustrations struck back against the Thayans by assaulting outposts
Eric Belisle, Sam Carr, Tyler Jacobson, Miles Johnston, supporting a small fortress known as Bloodgate Keep.
and Mark Winters Investigation and interrogation revealed that the Thay-
D&D Brand Team
ans built the keep over a powerful portal with elemental
Nathan Stewart, Liz Schuh, Laura Tommervik, Shelly nodes and ritual humanoid sacrifice fueling its magic.
Mazzanoble, Chris Lindsay, Hilary Ross, John Feil The Bloodgate could allow Thayans to transport forces to
the heart of the Sword Coast, giving the Red Wizards an
Prepress Manager
army with which to overthrow and control the North.
Jefferson Dunlap
Using secret teleportation circle sigil keys provided
Imaging Technician by a renegade Red Wizard, different groups of adven-
Carmen Cheung turers can make a coordinated assault against the
Production Manager elemental nodes powering the Bloodgate and then
Donna Woodcock attack the Bloodgate Nexus itself. The Thayan lich Tarul
Var is the master of Bloodgate Keep, and he is presently
Organized Play
Chris Tulach
Playtesters
André Bégin, Bill Benham, Count Response , Darrin Primmer,
Éric Leroux, Frederica Rose , Gregory L. Harris , James Chacon, Playtest Warning
Karen Primmer , Keoki Young , Kevin Neff , Manon Crevier, Dead in Thay uses material from the D&D Next playtest,
Mélanie Côté, Pierce Gaithe , Shay Rockman, Yan Lacharité which ended in December 2013. This adventure
Dungeons & Dragons, D&D, Forgotten Realms, their respective logos, Dead in
includes all the statistics needed to play the adven-
Thay, all other Wizards of the Coast product names, and their respective logos ture, but be warned: These monsters are not finalized,
are trademarks of Wizards of the Coast LLC in the USA and other countries. and have undergone limited development. As a result,
All Wizards characters and their distinctive likenesses are property of Wizards monsters may vary wildly in difficulty, so consider the
of the Coast LLC. This material is protected under the copyright laws of number of monsters presented in the adventure to be
the United States of America. Any reproduction or unauthorized use of the
guidelines. Dead in Thay is a deadly adventure, but play-
material or artwork contained herein is prohibited without the express written
ers should still have a chance at victory. Adjust difficulty
permission of Wizards of the Coast LLC. Any similarity to actual people,
organizations, places, or events included herein is purely coincidental.
based on the capabilities of your group.
©2014 Wizards of the Coast LLC.
620B11189001 EN

tuning the elemental nodes to bring the Bloodgate and his followers have reshaped the Doomvault’s magic,
C H A R AC T E R C R EAT I O N
to full power. If he succeeds and the armies of Thay creating laboratories in which the divine power of the
march forth from the keep, the Sword Coast will fall. Chosen can be extracted and funneled into the lich
lord’s phylactery to fuel his pursuit of godhood.
Synopsis A dventure Goals

Although the adventure begins in the North, most of
it takes place in the Doomvault, one of the deadliest Over the course of this adventure, the characters
dungeons in Thay and all Faerûn. Kazit Gul, a crazed have the following goals:
demilich, built the Doomvault to siphon the souls of F Destroy the Bloodgate by collapsing the elemental
those who perished within. Szass Tam and his followers nodes in the Bloodgate Nexus.
enslaved Gul and repurposed the Doomvault as a mon-
F Explore the Doomvault and deal as much damage to
strous menagerie and arcane laboratory.
the Thayans as possible.
Their incursion into the Bloodgate Nexus brings
the player characters into the plots of the Thayan F Learn how to access the Phylactery Vault, and
Resurrection, rebel Red Wizards opposed to Szass destroy the phylacteries within it.
Tam’s rule. One of those rebels is a conjurer in control
of the Bloodgate portal network. She uses the failing The villains’ goals are straightforward: defend the
Bloodgate to draw the adventurers across the world to Bloodgate Nexus and the Doomvault, and kill the
the Doomvault. adventurers. However, not all of the characters’ poten-
For the rebels to succeed and Thay’s threat to the tial foes share these goals, so the opportunity exists to
Sword Coast to be ended, Szass Tam’s power must be turn enemies into allies or, at least, useful tools.
broken. The characters make a concerted assault on the
Doomvault. Their overall goal is the Phylactery Vault of
Kazit Gul, which holds the phylacteries of Szass Tam’s Character Creation
elite lich servants. By destroying this vault, the adven- This adventure is a sequel to Scourge of the Sword Coast.
turers can deliver a deathblow to Szass Tam’s power. Characters from that adventure can advance to
As the assault unfolds, the adventurers discover level 6 before starting Dead in Thay due to the effort
that Szass Tam’s overall plot connects to the Sunder- spent fighting Thayan plots along the Sword Coast in
ing. The gods have divested much of their power into the intervening time between the two adventures.
the Chosen, mortals who can help shape the Realms to A new character for this adventure also starts
match the will of their divine benefactors. Szass Tam at level 6.
What Is the Sundering?

The world of the Forgotten Realms has endured one catastrophe after another for the past century or so, from the Time of
Troubles through the Spellplague. Time after time, upheaval has reshaped the pantheon, overthrown nations and rulers,
and even altered the geography of the world. Now, the world is being shaken and reshaped once again—for the last time.
The gods are thrown into chaos at the promise of a new reckoning of the pantheon, and they scramble and grasp
at power in hopes of cementing their positions of authority. Their mortal agents in the world, the Chosen, are charged
with carrying out their will.
The Spellplague, the magical catastrophe that reshaped the world so dramatically, has come to an end. The Weave
of magic is rewoven, and many lingering effects of twisted magic fade. The intermingling of worlds brought about by
the Spellplague also comes to an end, as what belongs to Abeir returns to Abeir, leaving the Forgotton Realms looking
much as it did before.
Partly driven by the activity of the gods’ Chosen and partly arising from the turbulent political situation at the end
of the Era of Upheaval, the nations and factions of Faerûn engage in their own maneuvers, manipulations, and acts of
aggression. In particular, the empire of Netheril attempts to conquer the Dalelands, Cormyr, and Myth Drannor, setting
off a war that engulfs the eastern Heartlands. The Harpers and the Zhentarim respond to the growing threats in the
world by regrouping and refocusing their energies, slowly returning to their former prominence.
Nations, geography, magic, and even the gods are changing forever, in the birth-pangs that herald a new creation.
The world needs heroes to ensure that the new age dawns bright and full of hope, in a world where good still shines as
a beacon against the darkness.

Character Event Coordinator
A dvancement An event coordinator facilitates the interaction between
different groups and tracks ongoing developments in
The monsters in the appendix are playtest iterations the Doomvault.
and do not contain XP values. Instead of awarding XP, Before the start of the season, the coordinator
you can advance the characters depending on how should:
you’re running the adventure. F Ensure that DMs understand the launch weekend
D&D Encounters. If you’re running this adventure session and its cliffhanger ending.
as part of D&D Encounters, you can simply have char-
F Become familiar with the Doomvault to help DMs
acters advance after playing five sessions of the season.
adjudicate exploration.
This means that characters who attend most sessions
will be level 8 by the final couple of sessions. F Understand the Doomvault’s division into large
Playing at Home. If you’re running this adventure sectors and smaller zones, as well as the gates that
as a home campaign, you can advance the characters divide and connect these areas.
at whatever rate you consider appropriate. Consider F Know how to track lore the characters have
advancing the characters one level for every twenty-five acquired, and help facilitate the distribution of that
rooms the party explores. This means the characters lore. Make sure the players have the lore they need
could potentially advance beyond the adventure’s stan- to accomplish their mission in a timely fashion and
dard level range (6 – 8) by the final session. reach the Phylactery Vault in the final session.
Running Sessions Before each session, the coordinator should:

F Organize DMs and players.
This adventure provides thirteen sessions of play for
one to four groups as part of D&D Encounters. If you’re F Ensure that all players have characters of the appro-
running the adventure at home, you can continue for priate level.
or as many or as few sessions as you and your play- F Ensure that each group has a good variety of characters
ers want. Although the adventure can be fun for one of different classes, unless the players at the table prefer
group, the adventure is best when multiple groups work to play together regardless of the class distribution.
together. Interaction is a key feature of this scenario,
F Ask each group to select its team captain. The team
since sharing information, coordinating exploration,
captain is responsible for tracking the group’s prog-
and distributing resources is critical to achieving the
ress and communicating with the other parties.
characters’ goals.
Several people facilitate the interaction between F Share information gained in the previous session
player groups: the event coordinator, the Dungeon among the groups, including lore, updates to the Spe-
Masters (DMs), and the team captains. The following cial Encounters table (see page 23), and so on.
sections describe each role. Every DM and every event
coordinator should read all the front matter to prepare During each session, the coordinator should:
for the event. F Read aloud any introductory material that indicates
the coordinator should read it.
F Ensure that no DM is running the game for more
than six players or fewer than four players, and that
No Event Coordinator? multiple groups are not exploring the same dungeon
No problem! Not every D&D gaming community has area simultaneously.
the luxury of affording an extra person to act as an
event coordinator. If that sounds like your community, F Coordinate interaction among groups, including
the DMs will have to take on the extra responsibility. helping groups divide their forces and resources
DMs should communicate beforehand to decide on as necessary. Encourage groups to join for sharing
who is performing which duties. information but to split again to undertake further
exploration.
F Help groups deal with glyph keys, gates, and other
common aspects of the adventure.
F Make suggestions to encourage interaction, offering
advice if anyone is unsure about what to do.

F Insert players into a group after the session has
RUNNING SESSIONS
begun. A player can join the adventure at any time.
F Track the Doomvault’s alert level.
Shared Group Combat
For most of the adventure, player character groups are
F Watch to make sure that each session finishes on time. in separate areas, but in a few encounters, the groups
fight alongside one another in shared combat. When
At the end of each session, the coordinator desired, two or more DMs can run a shared combat as a
should: battle on multiple fronts. Players remain at their normal
F Use the stickers that come with the D&D Encounters tables, with enemies attacking the adventurers from dif-
store kit to mark areas on the large poster map that ferent sides. Each DM runs a portion of the monsters. At
were explored during the recent session. the discretion of the DMs, players from different groups
can swap tables, representing the close proximity of the
F Determine from the groups which areas they intend
groups in the shared combat.
to explore in the next session. Ensure that no groups
If having different player groups fighting alongside
plan to enter the same zone.
one another creates headaches for the DMs, the coor-
F Work with DMs to organize the next session. Choose dinator should help to reorganize those sessions along
the starting locations for session 2 from the entry single-table lines.
points. See the “Entry Points” subsection of the
“Doomvault” section. It’s important to choose the
locations now so that each DM can prepare to run
a zone for session 2.
To start each session, each DM should:
At the second-to-last session, the coordinator F Ensure that players understand everything their
should: characters should know about the Doomvault,
F Ensure that all groups are on track to clear the last of including their current goals.
the Temples of Extraction, or that those zones have F Read any introductory or descriptive text for the sector.
already been cleared. Any zones of this area left intact
to this point must be cleared as part of this session. To end each session, each DM should:
F If the adventurers have not yet entered any Temples F Update the event coordinator with lore the group
of Extraction before this session, set up the session gained, developments in the dungeon, and creatures
so that all groups take part in a combined assault the coordinator should add to the Special Encoun-
against this sector. ters table (see page 23).
F Discuss which zone the group plans to enter in the
At the last session, the coordinator should: next session. Share this information with the event
F Help DMs coordinate play across different tables coordinator.
and oversee the tables during the assault on the F Encourage team captains to share information
Phylactery Vault. between groups.
F Help explain tasks that allow the adventurers to
destroy the Phylactery Vault. Team Captains
To help coordinate the combined assault on the Blood-
Dungeon Masters gate Nexus, Isteval lends each group a circlet of limited
Each Dungeon Master runs a table for a group of four telepathy. Isteval’s former adventuring companion
to six players. If you are a DM, before the start of the Imani created the items (which some players may rec-
season, you should be familiar with the D&D Next ognize from Vault of the Dracolich). The circlet allows
rules and this adventure. telepathic communication among characters wearing
Before each session, each DM should: circlets. Each group selects one player who serves as a
F Prepare for the area your group plans to explore team captain and whose character receives the circlet.
(or must explore) in the upcoming session. During each session, the team captain should track
the group’s progress and communicate relevant infor-
F Review the “Dungeon Characteristics” section, mation to the other groups, such as which glyph keys
which covers features common to all areas. have been obtained, what new lore has been uncovered,
requests for assistance or magical resources, and so on.
The players can share information in any way they
prefer, including notes passed among the tables, mes-
saging on mobile devices, and periodic meetings.

Session 1 fight against chaos and evil. His former companions are
spread across the Heartlands and the North.
Dead in Thay begins a few tendays after the events of In a fateful battle against an ancient green dragon,
Scourge of the Sword Coast. During that adventure, the Isteval suffered a grievous wound to his leg that has
defenders of Daggerford found the location of Blood- never been able to be fully healed. This wound means
gate Keep, a small fortress built over an old temple to that his greatest quests are now behind him. Although
Elemental Evil. There, the Thayans have constructed he is no longer able to fight as he did in his youth,
a portal to the Thaymount to transport their armies Isteval still seeks to bring together brave souls to fight
across Faerûn to the Sword Coast. against encroaching darkness.
Characters who fought through Scourge of the Sword Isteval is a paladin of Amaunator, but he views the
Coast, as well as brave souls who have arrived in Dag- god in an outmoded light as Lathander, the god of dawn
gerford more recently, respond to Sir Isteval’s call to and new beginnings. In these days of chaos, through
take the fight to the Thayans and drive them from the his faith, Isteval sees the birth pangs of a new age that
North. Isteval sent word that those willing to face the he believes will bring peace and prosperity. Although
Thayans are to meet early in the morning at the Floshin many trials lie ahead, he is convinced that a far fairer
Estate, north of Daggerford, ready for war. place lies at journey’s end.
Isteval is slender and tawny-skinned with dark
Personages of the Session brown hair salted with gray. He often wears the plate
People who are especially pertinent to this session are armor of a knight, although his left leg is braced and he
described here. carries a walking stick as well as his greatsword. His
armor is decorated with the holy symbol of Lathander.
Sir Isteval
A former adventurer and Purple Dragon knight of Sir Darfin Floshin
Cormyr, Sir Isteval is living out his retirement in Dag- Darfin “Longwalker” Floshin has a long history in the
gerford. Believing that his homeland was a shining region. He has seen local kingdoms rise and fall, and he
example of everything that a nation should be, he has advised Daggerford dukes for ages. His father Elor-
assembled several groups of like-minded adventurers to findar aided and advised the rulers of Daggerford, often
Sir Isteval Sir Darfin Floshin

with Darfin’s help. Much of the credit for Daggerford’s power to spiritually manifest in the gateway in a state of
SESSION 1
success can be laid at the feet of these two elves. semireality. Protected from death, he will make an offer
Duty bound Elorfindar to the Ardeep Forest. The the heroes of Daggerford might not be able to refuse.
House of Long Silences, a portal nexus that the elves
used to travel to Evermeet, required a guardian. This Shalendra Floshin
forest structure was a relic of ancient elven high magic Shalendra kept many secrets from her brother Darfin.
and a means of accessing an extraplanar nexus con- That humans rule in the North after the fall of elves
nected to elven portals all over the world. became a source of bitterness for her. While in Ever-
Long ago, elves of Elorfindar’s line were gold-elf meet, Shalendra met members of Eldreth Veluuthra,
supremacists. A few decades before Elorfindar died, a centuries-old group of elf supremacists dedicated
this threat rose anew and attempted to gain control of to wiping out humanity and reestablishing the elven
the portal nexus, necessitating its destruction. Upon empires of old.
Elorfindar’s death, Darfin, as the firstborn, inherited Baazka discovered Shalendra as she was investigat-
his father’s estate but not his duty. Until Darfin’s sister ing her father’s work in Ardeep Forest. Drawn to her
Shalendra returned, the House of Long Silences had bitterness and burgeoning evil, he infiltrated her mind.
been quiet for nearly a century. Baazka convinced Shalendra to approach the Red Wiz-
ards and make a deal. They could use the power of the
Baazka the Pit Fiend elemental nodes to reconstruct the nexus in the House
In Ghosts of Dragonspear Castle, a gate to the Nine Hells of Long Silences and thereby gain a means of sending
lay open for some time, spewing devils and smoke. their armies all over the North and beyond.
The heroes who closed the gate could not know it, but Shalendra believed Baazka’s promises to help her
amid the chaos of battle, another threat emerged. This take control of the portal network once the Red Wiz-
invisible presence is the essence of a pit fiend who has ards rebuilt it. In truth, Baazka used Shalendra as
long had designs on the Sword Coast. The devil, named a contingency against what he saw as the inevitable
Baazka, once marshaled armies from Dragonspear treachery of the Red Wizards.
Castle, and it was into his heart that a priest of Tempus Under Baazka’s influence, Shalendra took over
lodged the mighty Illydrael, the sword that served as the Floshin Estate and turned its wards against her kin.
key to closing the gate.
Smote through the heart but not yet dead, Baazka
fled through the gate, the blade of the sword breaking Shalendra Floshin
off in his body. Had the blow killed him in the world,
the devil could have returned after a century to wreak
his revenge. Had it killed him in the Nine Hells, Baazka
would have ceased to exist. Instead, the pit fiend’s black
heart continued to beat around the blade. Fearing
that removing the broken sword would mean his end,
Baazka has struggled along in the Nine Hells, reminded
of his desire for revenge with every painful heartbeat.
Through sympathetic magic, Baazka was unable to
enter Faerûn as long as the gate remained closed by Illy-
drael. Once the gate opened, he could pass through only
in a ghostlike state. In this form, the pit fiend sought
and failed to possess a Red Wizard named Mennek.
The attempt alerted the wizard, who alerted his master,
Szass Tam. Baazka began to work with the Red Wizards
in return for Szass Tam’s promise to free the fiend from
his cursed and pained existence.
It was Baazka, often through Mennek, who helped
the Red Wizards with their designs of the Blood-
gate. He is the one who convinced them to use a site
dedicated to evil and to employ humanoid sacrifice in
powering the portal. He corrupted Shalendra Floshin to
aid the Thayans with an ancient elven portal network.
But he also wove all these schemes as a way to reach his
goal—the removal of the blade of Illydrael.
When the Bloodgate’s power starts to fluctuate and
sacrifices are used to stabilize it, Baazka plans to use that

Jekk Ironfist Hadarr Karakaya
Red Wizards then began using the estate as a test site Recently, Jekk became embroiled in events around
for bringing monsters and soldiers from Thay. The Daggerford when he went to Firehammer Hold, a
intervention of heroes from Daggerford ultimately dwarven citadel, to investigate the nature of an object
saved her from the dark path she was on. When she he suspected to be a dwarven relic. Duergar loyal to the
recovered, she vowed to fight the Thayans until they Red Wizards captured Jekk, but Isteval guided some of
were no longer a threat to the North. his protégés to rescue the dwarf and free the hold.
Now Jekk wants to pay the Red Wizards back and
Jekk Ironfist protect the Sword Coast.
Jekk Ironfist realized the significance of his last name
only recently. Like his shield dwarf father, he was a Hadarr Karakaya
gladiator in Hillsfar’s arena. His father, Kellack, was Hadarr is a Calishite explorer and cartographer who
known as Killer Ironfist because of his name and adventured with Isteval and Jekk more than a decade
because he fought with a black-iron cestus. ago. Even then, he was known to go “off mission” when
Sir Isteval and the rest of the Company of the Sunlit he saw something worth investigating or plundering. As
Sea freed Jekk from the arena (though it was too late such, he prefers to work alone.
for Kellack). Jekk fought beside them until the group The Calishite is a folk hero around Daggerford. A
disbanded. number of Calishite refugees live in the town, and
With time to contemplate his life, Jekk looked into Hadarr has used his resources to help them however
how his father had come to be a gladiator. Jekk discov- he can. This altruism comes naturally to the wily Cal-
ered that Ironfist wasn’t just a moniker but also the ishite and is one reason he and Isteval get along so well
name of a dwarf clan. Fortuitously, that clan had put despite Hadarr’s impulsiveness. Hadarr is a proverbial
down roots near Daggerford, the home of Isteval. Jekk thief with a heart of gold.
seeks to learn more about his ancestors.

SESSION 1
Kelson Darktreader Mennek Ariz
Kelson Darktreader Mennek Ariz

Grandson of Elorfindar Floshin and a nephew to Mennek is a powerful enchanter who has long been
Darfin, Kelson Darktreader is a half-elf approaching forced to contend with the condescension of the Red
two hundred years of age. He has served as Master of Wizard necromancers who are his superiors. Since an
the Hunt to generations of Daggerford dukes. No one assignment to Bloodgate Keep uprooted him from Thay
in Daggerford knows the Misty Forest and High Moor and his life’s work, the haughty spellcaster has looked
better than Kelson. for any opportunity to turn his situation around. That
The Huntmaster is taciturn, never using two words opportunity appeared in the form of Baazka.
where one will do. His long hair is silver, and his face To Mennek’s superiors, he seemed to be a brilliant
shows the weight of long years. He is still spry, however, designer working on the Bloodgate Nexus and the ele-
leading the duke’s hunts and taking young rangers into mental nodes. However, much of Mennek’s inspiration
the wilds to teach them the secrets of forests, hills, and came from Baazka. His ability to help the characters
moors. teleport into the elemental nodes comes from his work
Kelson is not without pride. He couldn’t resist the on the nexus.
opportunity for one last glorious mission against the Mennek was captured in the time between Scourge of
evil threatening the North. He has aided Isteval before, the Sword Coast and this adventure. His capture seemed
but his willingness to assault the Bloodgate has just as to be due to information from Shalendra. Mennek
much to do with protecting Shalendra and showing her knows it was all part of Baazka’s plan.
that her half-human relations have more worth than Mennek is one among many rebel Red Wizards who
she once thought. seek the overthrow of Szass Tam and the necromantic
order. The destruction of the Bloodgate is the first step
in their plan. But even the rebels don’t know of the ties
Mennek has to Baazka and the fiend’s plan for using
the Bloodgate Nexus.

Starting the Session from the node. Second, you must escape with the key through
the gate you entered from. You’ll then be transported to the
If everyone agrees, different DMs can take the parts of Bloodgate Nexus, where you must perform your third task:
Isteval, Jekk, Mennek, and Hadarr in this introduction. Disrupt those performing the sacrifices and destroy the gate.
The event coordinator can serve as narrator. If you succeed, your lands will be safe from Thayan invasion .
When everyone is ready to start, the event coordina- . . for now.”
tor reads the following.
Mennek steps back. Hadarr steps forward and speaks.
The sun is rising high over the eastern ridgeline, illuminat-
ing the Floshin Estate, a graceful keep of wood and stone built “My name is Hadarr Karakaya,” he says. “An old friend
in the willowy architecture of the elves. Beneath the estate, of Isteval, Kelson, and Jekk. Like most of you, I’d as soon
you meet a number of adventurers, including Sir Isteval, befriend a red dragon as a Red Wizard, but Mennek’s story
your friend and patron. Also present is a male dwarf with checks out. With Mennek’s help, I teleported into the elemen-
wild brown hair, a smiling and well-dressed male Calishite, tal nodes and took a quick look around. The way seems safe
a silver-haired half-elf clad in worn leather armor, and a enough.”
human-sized figure in a dark cloak.
Sir Isteval steps up again.
Those who played through Scourge of the Sword Coast
can recognize Jekk, a friend of theirs and Isteval’s. They “Friends, today we take this war to the Thayans!” Isteval says.
may also recognize the half-elf as Kelson Darktreader. “One member from each of your groups will receive a circlet of
Isteval speaks first. limited telepathy. I also wear one of these circlets, which will
let us communicate. Still, if you have any questions, now is
“My friends!” Isteval says. “The Sword Coast is safer now, but the time to ask.”
the Red Wizards still scheme against us. We must end the
threat completely, and we now have the chance to do just that. At this point, groups should choose a team captain for
“We know Bloodgate Keep, the Thayan fortress, stands in each table. Next, the event coordinator and the DMs
the Forlorn Hills. Within that tower is the Bloodgate, which choose which group will take on which elemental node.
opens the way for Thay’s invasion of our region.” Isteval Each DM then goes on to the “Assault the Bloodgate”
glances at the cloaked figure. “We have learned that the time section.
to act is now.”
Jekk then speaks. Assault the Bloodgate

If they wish, the player characters can interact with the
“I’m Jekk. Some of you know me. We can all guess that trying NPCs. When you, the Dungeon Master, are ready to
to take Bloodgate Keep from the outside will take us too long, begin, read the following.
if we even manage it. So instead, we’re going under, with a
little help from a new . . . ally.” Isteval leads you into an adjacent room, where the silvery
Jekk motions the cloaked figure forward. Lowering his sigils of a permanent teleportation circle shine along the
hood, a human male with Red Wizard tattoos on his bald floor. Within are Isteval and Mennek. With them is a tall
head haughtily surveys the crowd. male elf with blond hair and tan skin, dressed in regal robes of
“This is Mennek,” says Jekk. “A Red Wizard, to be sure, but white, crimson, and gold. Alongside him, dressed in green, is
a member of the Thayan Resurrection, a rebel faction that a female elf who has a familial similarity to the male.
wants to overthrow Szass Tam. He’s our way in.”
Anyone who participated in Scourge of the Sword Coast
Mennek steps forward. recognizes the elves as Darfin and Shalendra. Darfin
greets the characters and reassures them. He and his
Mennek’s arrogance is obvious in his voice as he says, “Blood- sister are here to oversee Mennek and the use of the
gate Keep stands over a site of elemental power. The Thayan Floshin gateway room.
lich Tarul Var, a lackey of Szass Tam, is using this power, Mennek casts teleportation circle from one of several
along with living sacrifices, to hold open the Bloodgate. I have scrolls Isteval has had scribed for the assault. The Red
worked the Bloodgate to bring creatures through. I know its Wizard keys each circle to a specific elemental node.
power and the threat it holds for you. When the group assigned to a specific node is ready,
“I have the sigil sequences that allow access to several read the following.
elemental nodes, which power the Bloodgate. Each node con-
tains an elemental key. To destroy the Bloodgate, you’ll need “Step into the center of the chamber. It is time to go,” Darfin
to do three things: First, you must seize the elemental key Floshin says.
10

“Remember, my friends,” says Isteval, “your task is to trained in Arcana understands what is happening and
E L E M E N TA L N O D E S
seize the elemental key and escape the node through the gate, knows the time limit to escape the node. If an elemen-
which will cause its collapse. When your task is complete, tal key is taken through a node’s gate, then the node
please contact me through your circlet.” automatically collapses at the end of the subsequent
“I wish I could go with you,” says Isteval. “My adventuring round.
days are over, but it gives me hope to see heroes such as you When a node collapses, elementals return to their
taking up the mantle.” home plane. Non-elemental creatures in the node,
Mennek gives an impatient grunt and then speaks words including any Thayan warriors, take 11 (2d10) force
from a scroll. You feel the slight sensation of movement, and damage as they are ejected into the Bloodgate Nexus
the world fades to silvery light. next to the appropriate elemental gate.
When a group emerges in the Bloodgate Nexus
Jekk, Hadarr, Shalendra, Kelson, and Mennek make inform the event coordinator.
up an NPC party.
One Player Group. If only one player character
group is present, the NPC party takes on another ele-
Elemental Creatures
Grues have been attracted to the power and evil in the
mental node.
elemental nodes. They’re not immediately hostile and
Two to Four Groups. If two or more groups of
might listen to attempts to parley, but grues are cun-
players are present, the the NPCs do not aid in collaps-
ning and cruel, always attempting to use such delays in
ing the nodes. When the first player character group
hostilities to their advantage. The grues speak only their
appears in the Bloodgate Nexus, the NPC party arrives
respective dialects of Primordial, so a creature must
shortly after.
speak Primordial or use magic to communicate.
Elementals guard the key chambers. They attack
Elemental Nodes any non-elemental that enters their guarded area.
Each elemental node is a demiplane that can chan-

nel elemental power. The Red Wizards have used this Air Node
power to reestablish an ancient portal network, con- The ceilings, floors, and walls of the air node are semi-
necting Thay to the Sword Coast. solid sheets of freezing fog, ice shards, and lightning. A
The gate in each elemental node is keyed to the other creature forced into contact with any such surface, such
nodes and to the Bloodgate Nexus. A character standing as by falling prone, takes 2 (1d4) cold damage, 2 (1d4)
in an elemental node’s gate can teleport to one of those lightning damage, and 2 (1d4) slashing damage. A crea-
destinations as an action. ture can take this damage only once per turn.
The elemental nodes share a few features. Elemental
power illuminates each node and ceilings in each node A1. Air Nexus
are 20 feet high. Silver light fades to reveal a swirling wall of cold fog with
indistinct light and shadow visible beyond its edges.
Three-Stage Assault Characters traveling to this node appear in this cham-
The assault on each elemental node is divided into
ber, emerging from the air gate.
three stages.
Creatures. Four air grues bask in the air element’s
power here.
1. Incursion Air Gate. The air gate’s area is heavily obscured.
The characters arrive in a node’s nexus through its gate. Any non-elemental creature that ends its turn in the
Until they claim the node’s elemental key, the charac- gate’s area takes 5 (2d4) cold damage. From within the
ters face only the threats currently occupying the node. gate, a creature can use an action to teleport to the gate
of another elemental node or to the Bloodgate Nexus.
2. Alarm
When the first attempt is made to claim a node’s A2. Air Key
elemental key, Tarul Var learns of the incursion and In the center of this space is a short, hourglass-shaped pillar
sounds an alarm for the node. He dispatches 4 Thayan of whirling fog with lightning coursing over it. A glowing,
warriors to stop the party’s escape. smooth metal orb perforated with holes is held where the
hourglass shape is thinnest.
3. Collapse
Once its key is claimed, a node endures for 5 rounds, Creatures. As soon as intruders arrive here, two air
then collapses. While this collapse is happening, energy elementals attack, attempting to block the characters
visibly drains from the elemental key. Any character from seizing the key.
11

12

Elemental Pillar. The pillar is the object holding the damage at the end of each of its turns. A creature can use
E L E M E N TA L N O D E S
air key—the smooth metal orb perforated with holes. its action to extinguish the flames, which ends this effect.
Lightning arcs toward any non-elemental crea- When the orb is taken, it initiates the node’s collapse.
ture that moves within 20 feet of the pillar. If such a
creature ends its turn within 10 feet of the pillar, the
creature must succeed on a DC 13 Constitution saving
Water Node
throw (with disadvantage if the creature touched the These spherical caverns are filled with liquid air and
pillar that turn) or take 5 (2d4) lightning damage and protected by deadly creatures.
fall prone. Fire Suppression. Fire damage is halved in this
When the orb is taken, it initiates the node’s collapse. node.
Stalagmites. Great stone spires run between the
floors and ceilings of the node.
Fire Node
The fire node is filled with smoke, and it has hot walls W1. Water Nexus
and fissures. Silvery light fades to a blue glow and water that fills a huge,
Hot Surfaces. The walls and magma fissures of the flooded cavern. Looming stalagmites twist up from the
node are searing hot. A creature that touches any such rocky floor.
surface takes 7 (2d6) fire damage. A creature can take
this damage only once per turn. Characters traveling to this node appear in this cham-
Thin Smoke. The smoke lightly obscures the node. ber, emerging from the water gate.
Creatures. Four water grues are here.
F1. Fire Nexus Airy Water. The air in the node is of a strange ele-
A blast of heat replaces the silvery light. Walls of fire encircle mental admixture that allows the Thayans to breathe
the area, but they flicker chaotically, sometimes revealing a within the node, if necessary. Whenever an air-breath-
larger area beyond. That area has rocky surfaces, some of ing creature attempts to breathe in the node, it must
which glow red-hot. make a DC 13 Constitution saving throw. On a success-
ful save, the creature can breathe and needs to make
Characters traveling to this node appear in this cham- no further saving throws for this effect until it leaves
ber, emerging from the fire gate. the node. The creature can also move in the airy water,
Creatures. Four fire grues luxuriate here. including swimming above ground level at its normal
Fire Gate. Flames ring the fire gate, but they flicker speed. A creature that fails the saving throw takes 3
enough to provide occasional openings. A creature pass- (1d6) cold damage, can’t breathe, and can’t attempt to
ing through the ring of flame must succeed on a DC breathe the admixture again until its next turn.
13 Dexterity saving throw or take 7 (2d6) fire damage.
From within the gate, a creature can use an action to W2. Water Key
teleport to the gate of another elemental node or to the A sphere of icy haze completely encloses the top of a stalag-
Bloodgate Nexus. mite sheared off 15 feet above the floor. Visible through the
haze, mystic symbols are carved into the side of this rough
F2. Fire Key dais, whose top is set with a glowing blue orb.
At the center of a curving cavern, an orb the size of a human
fist hangs from a thick black chain. The orb looks like molten Creatures. As soon as intruders arrive here, two
lava, and the chain pulses with volcanic light. A roiling mass water elementals attack.
of fire swirls around the chain, sending burning tendrils whip- Elemental Dais. The dais is the object holding the
ping through the air. water key—a glowing blue orb that seems to be made of
dense water when seen closely or held.
Creatures. As soon as intruders arrive here, two fire The dais is 15 feet from the floor, but the water
elementals attack, attempting to block the characters around it starts to freeze when non-elemental creatures
from seizing the key. approach within 30 feet of it. Any such creature that
Elemental Chain. The chain is the object holding moves more than half its speed on its turn while within
the fire key—the molten orb. 30 feet of the dais, or that touches the dais or the icy
Fire whips toward any non-elemental creature that sphere around it, must succeed on a DC 13 Constitution
moves within 20 feet of the elemental chain. If such a saving throw or take 3 (1d6) cold damage and be forced
creature ends its turn within 10 feet of the pillar, the to acclimate to the airy water again (see area W1).
creature must succeed on a DC 13 Dexterity saving When the orb is taken, it initiates the node’s collapse.
throw or take 3 (1d6) fire damage now and 3 (1d6) fire
13

14

Earth Node Bloodgate Nexus
B LO O D G AT E N EX U S
The earth node is an unstable series of tunnels filled Beneath Bloodgate Keep, elemental power and human-
with shifting soil and dust. oid sacrifice fuel the Bloodgate, a portal to Thay. When
Dust. The dust lightly obscures the node. the characters arrive in this area through the elemental
Shifting Earth. Patches of shifting earth are diffi- gate that corresponds with their node, notify the event
cult terrain for non-earth creatures. coordinator, who should announce the party’s arrival.
Unstable Tunnels. An X marks an unstable tunnel. You can then read the following.
Whenever a non-earth creature enters such an area,
a quake occurs. Any creature within 30 feet of the X You emerge from a swirling gate into an immense oblong
must succeed on a DC 13 Dexterity saving throw or, room with ceilings 40 feet high along the walls, arching to 80
due to falling debris, take 5 (2d4) bludgeoning damage feet high in the center. Four corridors lead off from this cham-
and fall prone. ber. A pulsing sphere of white light blocks each one.
Red Wizards and their servants take up defensive posi-
E1. Earth Nexus tions. Apprentices are stationed at red stone altars set about
Silver light fades to reveal a ring of great uneven stone slabs the chamber atop broad staircases. Humanoids sprawl uncon-
thrust up from the center of a dusty chamber. Most slabs scious on the altars, ready for sacrifice. Thin channels etched
touch the ceiling, and all have gaps between them, revealing a in swirling patterns across the floor are slick with blood that
larger area beyond the ring. flows from the altars to an enormous archway of black stone
in the center. The arch stands 50 feet tall and glows blood-red.
Characters traveling to this node appear in this cham- Standing within that arch is a red-robed lich clutching a
ber, emerging from the earth gate. glowing staff. Energy flows through him as he turns his milky
Creatures. Five earth grues are here. The grues try eyes toward you. To the assembled Thayan forces, the lich
to distract the characters to keep them in the area of shrieks, “Slay them all!”
the earth gate.
Earth Gate. A creature that passes through an Event Coordination
opening between the slabs to enter the gate must suc- The event coordinator controls three aspects of this scene.
ceed on a DC 13 Dexterity saving throw or fall prone Allied NPCs. The allied NPC party that includes
in the space just beyond the gate. From within the gate, Jekk, Hadarr, Shalendra, Kelson, and Mennek arrives
a creature can use an action to teleport to the gate of in the Bloodgate Nexus just after the first player group
another elemental node or to the Bloodgate Nexus. does. If the NPCs were working on collapsing an ele-
mental node, they succeeded, lowering the Bloodgate
E2. Earth Key power (see “Power of the Bloodgate” on page 17). They
A low rise of rocky ground is set with a huge boulder whose attack the general Thayan forces, per the “NPC Versus
cracks and fissures glow with golden light. A prickly orb of NPC” sidebar (see page 16), leaving the player charac-
violet crystal containing a spark of the same golden light has ters to take on more significant tasks.
been driven into the boulder’s upper surface. Sacrifices. For each player group participating in
the session, two altars are active. Pick which altars on
Creatures. As soon as intruders arrive here, two the map are active and assign numbers to them. Each
earth elementals attack, attempting to block the charac- active altar has a sacrificial victim who is attended by
ters from seizing the key. two Thayan apprentices. Inform the DMs which altars
Elemental Boulder. Climbing the boulder requires are active.
a DC 10 Strength (Athletics) check. The key is lodged Tarul Var. When the first group enters the Blood-
15 feet from the ground. The elemental power coursing gate Nexus, roll initiative for Tarul Var, and have that
through the boulder glows strongly as any non-elemen-
tal creature climbs the boulder. Any such creature that
climbs more than 10 feet up the boulder must succeed
on a DC 13 Constitution saving throw. On a failure, Roleplaying Tarul Var
the creature takes 4 (1d6) force damage and is thrown A devious and arrogant mage, Tarul Var knows that
10 feet away from the boulder, taking 1d6 bludgeoning his continued existence hinges on the success of the
damage from the fall. Bloodgate. However, he doesn’t believe he can fail. The
When the orb is taken, it initiates the node’s collapse. lich also thinks all lesser creatures are beneath him.
Roll to determine which Thayan reinforcements appear He berates the characters at every opportunity, and he
at the gate. drives his underlings to cruelty.
15

group’s DM track his initiative. That DM should inform Hellish crimson flame ripples in the Bloodgate, and the
the event coordinator whenever it is Tarul Var’s turn. ghostly form of a huge winged fiend appears, towering over
When the first elemental node collapsed, instabil- Tarul Var. As the figure kneels, it gains more solidity, and the
ity in the Bloodgate forced Var to intervene to prevent broken blade of a sword can be seen jutting from a festering
the portal’s failure. As long as the lich remains within wound in its chest.
the Bloodgate arch, he uses his action and movement to Mennek surges past the astonished Tarul Var, and in a
stabilize the portal. If Var is forced out of the Bloodgate burst of crimson light, disappears.
arch, he uses his movement on his next turn to move “Baazka!” shouts Shalendra Floshin. She charges toward
back into the arch. If he can reenter the arch and take the gate.
another action, Var uses his action to cast a spell against Energy flares from the Bloodgate as Baazka’s gaze falls
the enemies responsible for forcing him out of the arch. on Shalendra. When the flare touches her, it pulls her toward
The event coordinator also tracks Var’s condition and the gate. Kelson cries out in dismay and lunges after her. The
position for all groups. Each DM should tell the coor- energy engulfs him, and both disappear into the gate.
dinator about anything that happens to the lich. While Baazka speaks again. “Now, for those who care to listen,
Var remains within the Bloodgate arch, he is immune I have a bargain for you. Pull the blade from my chest, and I
to all spell damage, which the Bloodgate absorbs (see will shatter the Bloodgate for you.”
the “Power of the Bloodgate” section), and he has
damage resistance against all other damage. Baazka speaks truly. He knows and reveals, if asked,
Mennek’s Escape. At a moment of the event coor- that Shalendra and Kelson are now in Thay.
dinator’s choosing, Mennek enacts Baazka’s plan. The A character can pull the blade of Illydrael free with
coordinator should read the following, perhaps with a successful DC 15 Strength check. Given the spiritual
other DMs taking the part of NPCs other than Baazka. nature of the interaction, a successful DC 15 Wisdom
check also suffices.
Mennek breaks away from the battle and rushes toward the If someone removes the blade, Baazka is freed
Bloodgate, shouting, “Baazka, the way is open! Now help on Faerûn and attacks the Thayans. Read:
me escape.”
Baazka howls in triumph and stands. The wound on his chest
begins to close, and his spiritual form takes on a red hue. The
Tarul Var Bloodgate shudders and cracks. The fiend is materializing.
He is nearly solid as he steps out of the gate arch. Laughing
in hellish delight, he says, “You shall be legendary. The gate
falters and I am free, our bargain sealed. I give you one more
opportunity at a pact. As I set to slaying these Thayans, stay
out of my way. Do so, and you die last.”
With that, Baazka attacks Tarul Var, shoving the lich out
of the gate arch.
NPC Versus NPC

A few scenes in this adventure require NPCs to attack
other NPCs. Unless otherwise indicated, when NPCs
fight one another, the event coordinator makes sure
that each NPC deals average damage to an enemy NPC
every other round and declares casualties. In the case
of spell use, the NPC might catch multiple enemies. In
this case, player characters always receive the normal
saving throw the spell allows, suffering lessened con-
sequences on a successful save.
If a player character falls in a battle in which allied
NPCs are available, the DM is empowered to let the
player take over an allied NPC. If the player chooses to
do so, the event coordinator works with the player to
bring the NPC to the player’s table as soon as possible.
16

If a character instead twists or pushes the blade, Features
B LO O D G AT E N EX U S
Baazka is banished back to the Nine Hells. Read:
Altars. Red stone slabs render ritually prepared
victims unconscious so they need not be bound. A char-
The pit fiend howls in pain and its spiritual manifestation
acter can take an action to remove a victim from an
crumbles. It snarls, “I will find you and your kin, mortal. I
altar. Freed victims flee to alcoves near the white barri-
will destroy you and all you love.”
ers and play no further part in the adventure.
Tarul Var laughs and says, “Fool! You have just thrown
Bloodgate Arch. The Bloodgate arch is full of
away your best chance to thwart me and close this gate.”
crimson energy. Anyone who succeeds on a DC 15
Intelligence (Arcana) check can tell that spell damage
Power of the Bloodgate. When the first player
should further disrupt the portal’s cohesion. A detect
group enters the Bloodgate Nexus, the Bloodgate has
magic spell reveals the same weakness.
a power of 5 plus the number of player groups partici-
Elemental Gates. Glowing portals set into the walls
pating in the assault. Throughout the assault, the event
connect the Bloodgate Nexus to the elemental nodes.
coordinator tracks the Bloodgate’s current power and
Active gates glow blue (air node), gray (earth node), red
announces changes to it. The Bloodgate Power table
(fire node), or green (water node). If a node has col-
shows events that can change the portal’s power, as well
lapsed, its gate goes dark.
as the amount of change. When the Bloodgate’s power
White Gates. The spheres of white force are white
falls to 0, the portal overloads. Go to “Conclusion.”
gates that prevent all movement through the passages
Bloodgate Power they block.
Event Power
Elemental node collapses –1 Conclusion
Sacrifice succeeds +1 If the session is running short, fighting can continue for
Tarul Var leaves the arch or dies –1 a few rounds. When the event is coming to a close, the
Bloodgate takes spell damage of 15 or more –1 event coordinator should read the following.
Baazka enters the Bloodgate +1
Illydrael banishes Baazka –2 A pulse of eldritch power explodes from the Bloodgate, knock-
Illydrael removed from Baazka –4 ing down everyone in the room. The chamber shudders, and a
shrieking sound suggests that the next wave will be worse.
Creatures
Enemies. Along with the lich Tarul Var and the The characters can telepathically alert Isteval that the
Thayan apprentices performing the sacrifices, present Bloodgate has fallen. If someone does, read:
at the start of this encounter are two Red Wizards, eight
wights, and two darkenbeasts. Isteval responds, “Hold on, friends. Darfin shall now use the
Since the allied NPC party arrives in the Bloodgate nexus to bring you back.”
Nexus at the same time as the first group of player char- Lines of silver light begin to radiate within the crimson
acters, the Thayan forces initially divide between both glow in the Bloodgate arch. Silver lightning arcs across the
enemy groups. The event coordinator may decide to fur- chamber, seeking out you and your allies. The Bloodgate
ther divide the forces as more groups arrive. Nexus starts to fade into silvery luminance.
Reinforcements. Starting the round your player
group arrives in the nexus, each round on initiative After that, or if no one calls for aid from Isteval, read:
count 0, skeletal reinforcements emerge from the
Bloodgate and attack your party. A number of skeletons Unearthly shrieking fills your mind as the Bloodgate sud-
appears equal to half the current power of the Blood- denly pulses again. Red light fills your vision, and as the edges
gate (round down). of your sight blacken, you feel yourself losing consciousness.
Sacrifices. Two altars are active for each player Suddenly, through the telepathic bond of the circlets that
group present in the encounter. The event coordinator your group leaders wear, a woman’s voice rings out. “The nexus
should inform you which altars are active. is collapsing in a cascade, but we can control it! Hold on!”
At the end of the second round after your player An unseen force wrenches your body through space. Then
group arrives in the nexus, roll a d8. If the roll corre- all goes black.
sponds to one of the active altars, then a sacrifice occurs
there. Announce to the event coordinator and the other The session is over. This cliffhanger takes the
DMs that a sacrifice has been made there. If you roll characters to one of the most perilous dungeons on
an inactive altar, no sacrifice happens, so you need Faerûn—the Doomvault of Thay.
not inform the coordinator. If a sacrifice is made, the
remaining apprentices at that altar attack your player
character group.
17

18

Doomvault Magical Gates
D O O M VA U LT
When the adventurers assaulted the Bloodgate Nexus, Two types of magical gates, white gates and black gates,
a Red Wizard named Syranna, leader of a cell of the secure the Doomvault.
Thayan Resurrection, saw an unusual opportunity. Gate Features. Someone who touches the edge of a
As a skilled conjurer, she was a primary Thayan agent gate’s energy field can assess its nature with a success-
in rebuilding the ancient portal network of which the ful DC 10 Intelligence (Arcana) check. A creature that
Bloodgate was a part. When the Bloodgate failed, Syra- enters a gate’s area without a proper glyph key is pushed
nna used her powers and that of the faltering gate to back 10 feet. The first time a creature does so on a given
save the characters and snatch them away to Thay. She turn, the creature takes 5 (2d4) force damage.
hopes to coax them to assault the Doomvault beneath White Gates. Each of the white gates is a circle of
Thaymount and disrupt Szass Tam’s power. runes and pure quartz fragments set into the floor, fill-
From the second session on, the characters explore ing the passageway with white mist that gives off dim
this dungeon. The following sections describe general light and renders its area heavily obscured. A white gate
parameters for doing so. dulls any sound and scent passing through it as well as
a closed door does. The gate is also a wall of force that
blocks access to those without a glyph key. The gate’s
Dungeon Characteristics blocking power disappears while a properly attuned
The following characteristics are common to all areas glyph key is applied to the gate’s field, so a creature that
of the Doomvault, unless otherwise noted in a specific has an attuned glyph key can hold a white gate open for
description. others to pass through.
Black Gates. Teleportation circles that were part of
Area Divisions the Doomvault’s original construction, black gates con-
The Doomvault is divided into nine sectors that are nect different areas of the complex. Each gate is a circle
labeled on the map: Abyssal Prisons, Blood Pens, Mas- of runes and black onyx fragments set into the floor,
ters’ Domain, Far Realm Cysts, Forests of Slaughter, exuding shadowy energy that looks like curling black
Ooze Grottos, Predator Pools, Golem Laboratories, and smoke. To teleport to a black gate, a creature that has a
Temples of Extraction. Each sector is subdivided into glyph key attuned to the destination gate’s zone enters
four zones, each of which is also labeled on the map. A another black gate while visualizing the desired zone
zone consists of distinct but related rooms, which are or thinking about its name. The gate’s power can also
numbered on the map. be used to create a temporary portal when a properly
Each zone has a specific function or theme that con- attuned glyph key is applied to the gate’s field. There-
nects to the overall theme of its sector. Magical gates fore, a creature that has an attuned glyph key can hold
(see that section) isolate zones. Adventuring groups work a black gate open for others to pass through, but the
their way through the Doomvault zone by zone, explor- key’s holder decides the destination.
ing and clearing one part of the dungeon at a time. Gatehouse. The Red Wizard rebels maintain con-
trol of an unmapped magical gatehouse, wherein the
Dimensional Barriers characters first arrive in Thay. The gatehouse contains
Strong abjuration magic tightly secures the dungeon. several permanent teleportation circles. Syranna can
No spell or trait allows anyone to evade the dungeon’s key these circles to any entry point. Further, any
security. For instance, a mage might use a dimension door creature that possesses a glyph key can use a black
spell to teleport from one part of a zone to another, but
no spell permits teleportation out of the zone in which
the spell was cast. Similarly, a mage might cast a pass-
wall spell to burrow from one area to another. However, Beshaba Shrines
if the tunnel would pass from one zone to another, cir- The Red Wizards of Thay commonly have shrines
cumventing security, the tunnel ends half way between to Beshaba, Maid of Misfortune, outside their ritual
the origin point and the possible exit point. In any case, chambers to ward off unfortunate mistakes. Most white
the caster knows why the spell didn’t work as intended. gates in the Doomvault have such a shrine near them.
Further, an incorporeal or ethereal creature can’t pass A shrine is a red triangle with stylized black antlers
between zones despite the benefit of such a trait. inside it and a stone bowl. Many Red Wizards carry
A detect magic spell can’t penetrate the structure flasks of liquor, and when passing a Beshaba shrine,
of the Doomvault far enough to allow a spellcaster to they sometimes pour the drink into the bowl and burn
sense the dimensional barriers. it in propitiation.
19

Disrupting Black Gates
As the adventure progresses, the characters learn that disrupting some of the black gates is essential to reaching the
Phylactery Vault, where the party can upset Szass Tam’s plans and loosen his grip on power in Thay. Szass Tam’s chan-
neling of Chosen life force has created instability in the black gates’ magic. To reach the Phylactery Vault, a total of six
black gates per group participating in the adventure must be disrupted. Once enough gates are disrupted, the black
gates can be forced to connect the Temples of Extraction to the Phylactery Vault of Kazit Gul, which is otherwise acces-
sible only to Szass Tam.
Once the characters learn that they need to disrupt the gates, anyone who understands the nature of the gates knows
how to perform the disruption (and reverse it). As an action, a character that has the glyph key attuned to a black gate’s
zone can disrupt the gate. To do so, the character must touch the edge of the gate’s energy field and succeed on a DC
15 Intelligence (Arcana) check. A dispel magic spell cast on the gate up to 1 minute beforehand grants advantage on
this check. On a failure, the character performing the check takes 7 (2d6) force damage.
To reverse the disruption, a character must make the same check (though a dispel magic spell doesn’t grant advantage
on the check). Creatures patrolling the Doomvault pay no heed to the disruption. A disrupted black gate continues to
function as a teleportation portal. However, the gate is in a state of higher energy output, and it deals 10 (3d6) force
damage (instead of 2d4) to a creature that enters it without the proper glyph key.
gate to teleport from the Doomvault to a permanent between area 4 and area 2, between area 6 and area 8
teleportation circle in the gatehouse. or area 16, and between area 7 and area 12.
Entry Points. DMs and the event coordinator work Touching a glyph key provides a telepathic sense of
together to choose starting locations for the second ses- the name of its zone. Thus, when the characters find
sion from seven entry points in the Doomvault. Black glyph keys, they know which zones the keys are for.
gates in the following areas have entry points labeled on A creature that has an glyph key attuned to a zone
the map: area 1 (Abyssal Prisons), area 23 (Blood Pens), can use that key to attune another key to that zone.
area 33 (Masters’ Domain), area 38 (Far Realm Cysts), Doing so is an action and requires a successful DC 15
area 49 (Forests of Slaughter), area 61 (Ooze Grottos), Intelligence (Arcana) check. A different creature must
and area 77 (Predator Pools). hold each key. If the check fails, both creatures take 2
Glyph Keys. A magic crystal pendant on a bronze (1d4) force damage. If the check fails by 10 or more, the
chain, a glyph key allows creatures to manipulate cer- original glyph key is destroyed.
tain magical gates within the Doomvault. Glyph keys
can be attuned to dungeon zones, allowing a creature Common Features
to safely use a black gate in the attuned zone and move This section details generalities about the Doomvault.
through white gates around that zone. For example, a Descriptions in specific areas take precedence over
glyph key attuned to the Temple of Chaos zone (areas this overview.
4 through 7) allows its user to access the black gate Atmosphere. Abjuration magic keeps the dungeon
in area 7, as well as to pass through the white gates dry and at a comfortable temperature. A detect magic
spell reveals this magic as a faint aura on all the
Doomvault’s surfaces.
Construction. Regular rooms and their features are
Temples of Extraction of worked and finished stone, mostly marble. Caverns
Glyph Keys are rough-hewn stone.
The Temples of Extraction are the site of Szass Tam’s Ceilings rise from 20 feet to vaults of 30 feet.
dark experiments with the Chosen of the gods, and Caverns have natural ceilings roughly 30 feet high.
security there is tighter than anywhere else in the Corridor ceilings are 20 feet high.
Doomvault. Only four glyph keys to this sector, one for Contact Stones. Each zone contains a circle of
each zone, are outside the Temples of Extraction sector. glowing magical glyphs (transmutation) or an object
They are in area 10, area 25, area 31, and area 63. The that has such glyphs. These glyphs allow someone who
adventurers need to find and possibly duplicate these has a glyph key for that zone to contact the gatehouse.
glyph keys to gain access to the temples. The characters can use these points to speak to Syranna
and have her attune glyph keys to the zone where the
contact stone is located.
20

Doors. The Doomvault’s doors are wood reinforced the adventurers. When hard pressed, a few might be con-
D O O M VA U LT
with steel, and they open easily. Most doors lack latches, vinced to surrender. Under interrogation, however, most
bars, or any built-in means of locking. Those that are of these villains lie or otherwise mislead the characters,
locked require a successful DC 15 Dexterity check to aiming to kill them with misinformation. Thayans who
pick or DC 20 Strength check to force open. escape the characters’ assault and have no other purpose
A successful DC 20 Intelligence (Search) check is either leave the Doomvault through the gatehouse or join
required to find a typical secret door in the Doomvault. patrols in attempts to hunt down the adventurers.
False doors look like normal doors. A character must
succeed on a DC 20 Intelligence (Search) check to tell a
door is false without opening it.
Sessions
Each Doomvault zone is designed to fill a single in-store
Light. Magic orbs of insubstantial light brightly illu-
play session of D&D Encounters. To ensure that all
minate areas that indicate no other lighting conditions.
groups arrive at the last session at the same time, it’s
Read-aloud text assumes that someone can see the
best if a given party explores one zone per session. Here
described area.
are some parameters for playing out each session.
Magical Features. Most magical features in the
dungeon are magic items of a sort. Because of this fact,
the identify spell can be used to discern the nature of Dungeon State
most of these features. Time is the only factor in such This adventure describes each area as it exists when
assessment. the characters first arrive in the Doomvault. As they
Pit Traps. A typical pit trap is under a 5-foot-square explore, they change the dungeon’s state. DMs should
section of floor, which forms a lid hinged on the inner record the state each area is in when the characters
side and lined with lead. A character within 5 feet of leave. At the end of the session, they should inform the
the lid might notice it with a successful DC 20 Wisdom event coordinator of the dungeon state. The event coor-
(Perception) check. A character searching the area dinator will log relevant information and use the large
notices the lid with a successful DC 15 Intelligence poster map and stickers in the D&D Encounters store
(Search) check. The lid can be shimmed to remain kit to track which rooms have been explored.
closed (successful DC 15 Dexterity check to disable).
Otherwise, the lid falls open when a Small or larger Security
creature places weight on it. Security is intended to help keep groups limited to one
A creature that triggers the lid must succeed on a DC zone at a time. The event coordinator (acting as Syranna)
15 Dexterity saving throw or fall 20 feet onto a bed of also uses the security to help keep different adventur-
stone spikes, taking 7 (2d6) bludgeoning damage and ing parties in diverse areas, so the characters can cover
13 (2d12) piercing damage. The pit walls are smooth more ground and find what they need to succeed.
stone. The lid closes magically 5 minutes after being These constraints are not intended to force players to
triggered. The lead on the lid prevents the transmuta- adhere to a timeline or overtly limit their exploration. If
tion magic of a closed trap from being detected. a group fails to finish a zone in one session, exploration
Prisoners. Most humanoid prisoners are terrified can continue at the start of the next session. Likewise, if
and have only enough strength to avoid battle. Prison- a group clears a zone before the end of a given session,
ers do hard labor or end up as food for the dungeon’s the characters can use the remaining time to start on
monsters. They have no glyph keys and can’t leave the the next zone. The important guideline is that players
zone in which they reside without help. If able, freed should average about one zone per session.
prisoners beg for aid in escaping. If given glyph keys,
they make their way to the gatehouse. Use the human
commoner statistics for prisoners if needed.
Resting
The incursion into the Doomvault is a fast-paced assault
Reduced Threat. A reduced-threat monster uses a
in which the characters have little time for typical rests.
normal monster’s statistics, but it has half the normal
Some areas of the dungeon offer access to special magic
hit point maximum and takes a –2 penalty to attack
that allows characters to gain the benefit of a rest.
rolls, checks, saving throws, and saving throw DCs for
The characters also have access to the Seclusion
its abilities. You may also want to reduce the creature
Crypt, an unmapped part of one of the traps Kazit Gul
by at least one size category.
built into the original Doomvault. The crypt isolated
A monster designated as “incomplete,” “young” or
victims in time and space on a demiplane. A square
similar is always a reduced threat. In addition, such
chamber 50 feet on a side and 15 feet high, the crypt
a creature can’t use traits or attacks that require the
is otherwise dark and bare. Time passes within the
monster to be of the size of its normal adult or fully
demiplane, but no time passes in the world.
developed version.
However, the crypt is dangerous because some of
Thayan Foes. Thayan humanoids in the dungeon,
the trap’s magic still functions. This magic causes those
especially Red Wizards, prefer to survive encounters with
21

on the demiplane to age one month for each hour they
spend in the crypt. This aging immediately catches up
Random Encounters
with those who leave the demiplane. Random encounter tables are used to determine
See “Session 2” for details on accessing the Seclusion when adventurers in the Doomvault interact with
Crypt. Each time after the first that a character uses other creatures moving through or patrolling the
the crypt, that character’s hit point maximum drops dungeon. A DM rolls a random encounter in either
by 5 until the character completes a long rest outside of the following circumstances:
the Seclusion Crypt. A remove curse spell can end these F A group enters a zone that has been previously
effects. cleared for any reason other than to disrupt a black
gate there
Alert Level F A group moves between zones while the Doomvault
The Doomvault is an active complex. Over successive has an alert level of 6 or higher
sessions, as effects of the adventurers’ assault grow
more widespread, the Doomvault’s alert level rises. The These encounters are more for atmosphere than
alert level increases the likelihood of certain random challenge, and they should be omitted whenever they
encounters. The event coordinator tracks the alert level would hinder exploration of new areas. The presence of
and keeps players and DMs informed of it. The level a random encounter should be foreshadowed with noise
starts at 0, and it increases either as a result of specific or other cues. If a creature you roll makes no sense for a
events in the dungeon or under the following circum- given area, select a different creature that does.
stances. A few events in the adventure can lower the At least one creature in a random encounter has
alert level. a glyph key attuned to the zone it is in or an adjacent
F The level increases by 1 every time a number of zone. In cases where foes have no way to enter an area,
zones is cleared equal to the total number of groups they instead follow the party into that area.
participating in the event. For example, if three
groups are participating in a D&D Encounters ses- Random Encounters
sion and each clears a zone during that session, the First roll on the Encounter Type table, adding the alert
level increases by 1. level to the roll. Then roll on the indicated table to
F The level increases by 1 if two groups operate in the determine the encounter specifics.
same zone during a session.
Encounter Type
F Encounters with dread warriors may raise the alert 2d4 Encounter Type
level (see below). 2–3 None
4–5 Minor encounter
Dread Warriors 6–7 Dread Legion patrol
Szass Tam devised the ritual to create dread warriors. 8 Thayan patrol
The lich has since altered the ritual to interact with 9–10 Sector encounter
another spell of his devising, enabling a Red Wizard 11+ Special encounters table
to take control of a dread warrior that he or she has
created. By casting this spell, the Red Wizard cre- Minor Encounter
1d4 Encounter
ates a psychic link to the dread warrior and can, for
1 1 Thayan apprentice, 4 Thayan warriors,
a time, experience the world through the dread war-
2d4 prisoners
rior’s senses, speak with its mouth, and even cast spells
2–3 1 wight
through it. The wizard is limited to casting his or her
4 1 wight, 2d6 skeletons or 2d4 zombies
own prepared spells, but a powerful wizard can control
more than one dread warrior at a time.
Dread Legion Patrol
When a party in the Doomvault encounters a dread
1d4 Encounter
warrior that isn’t in the company of a Red Wizard, it
1 2d4 gnolls
has two effects. First, if the dread warrior survives until
2 1 dread warrior + 10 zombies
the end of the first round of combat (or approximately
3 2d4 orcs
6 seconds if not in combat), Tarul Var (see area 10)
4 1 troll
becomes aware of the group’s presence if he has not
been already destroyed. This raises the alert level by 1.
In addition, Tarul Var takes control of the dread warrior
and casts any of his available spells using the undead.
22

Thayan Patrol Predator Pools
D O O M VA U LT
2d4 Encounter d4 Encounter
2 1 deathlock wight, 2d4 Thayan warriors, 1 2d4 giant crabs*
2d4 prisoners 2 1d4 + 1 kuo-toas
3-4 1d3 deathlock wights, 1d3 Thayan apprentices, 3 1d2 merrows*
2d4 Thayan warriors 4 1 scrag*
5-6 1 Red Wizard, 1d3 Thayan apprentices,
1 dread warriors Golem Laboratories
7-8 1 dread warrior + 2d4 wights d4 Encounter
1 1d3 incomplete flesh golem (reduced threat)
Sector Encounters 2 1 flesh golems
3 1d2 incomplete clay golems (reduced threat)
Unless the dungeon is on high alert 1d2 Thayan
4 1 clay golem
apprentices, and 2d4 Thayan warriors are herding any
monster marked with an asterisk (*) or a monster in any
Temples of Extraction
sector marked with an asterisk.
d4 Encounter
1 1d2 will-o’-wisps
Abyssal Prisons*
2 1d4 + 1 shadows
d4 Encounter
3 1d4 gray oozes
1 1 hezrou (reduced threat)
4 1d2 wraiths
2 2d8 manes
3 2d4 quasits
4 1 vrock (reduced threat) Special Encounters Table
The special encounter table lets an event coordinator or
Blood Pens Dungeon Masters track possible encounters with spe-
d4 Encounter cific NPCs or monsters within the dungeon.
1 2d6 giant centipedes When creatures noted in the text leave their encoun-
2 1d4 giant spiders ter areas to roam the dungeon, they are added to the
3 Thayan patrol special encounters. If necessary, Syranna covertly helps
4 1 shambling mound* such creatures move about the dungeon to add to the
confusion and aid the overall mission. When a DM rolls
Masters’ Domain a special encounter, he or she can choose an encounter
d4 Encounter or roll randomly. If a special encounter is resolved or its
1 1d2 wraiths enemies are slain or captured, the encounter is deleted
2–4 Dread Legion patrol from the table.
If this result is rolled while the table has no possible
Far Realm Cysts* special encounters, then the group has no encounter.
d4 Encounter
1 1 gibbering mouther
2 1 grell
3 1d4 gricks
4 1 otyugh
Forests of Slaughter*
d4 Encounter
1 1d2 barghests
2 1d4 cockatrices
3 1 displacer beast
4 1 troll
Ooze Grottos
d4 Encounter
1 1 black pudding*
2 1 gelatinous cube*
3–4 1d4 + 1 sentient gray oozes
23

Treasure arcane spell of 1st or 2nd level, most often darkvision,
daylight, detect magic, identify, invisibility, or thunder-
The Doomvault has some treasure, but the characters
wave. Twenty-five percent of Red Wizards (determine
might be able to find more.
randomly using a d4) instead have one 3rd-level scroll
containing dispel magic or remove curse.
Changing Treasure Dread Warrior. A dread warrior carries no gold,
DMs should feel free to change the treasure in the but you can roll on the following table.
Doomvault or add more. It’s especially appropriate to
change treasure to something the characters in the 2d4 Item
party can use—and it’s satisfying to let them claim it 2–6 None
from a defeated monster or Thayan. For instance, if 7 +1 battleaxe, +1 javelin, or another you choose
you’d like to give a character a magic weapon, change 8 +1 studded leather armor
a dread warrior’s statistics to account for the weapon.
Thayan Treasure Character Death

When a character dies, the player has a couple of options.
In addition to treasure specifically noted in the text,
Thayans carry coins and useful magic. Each group of
Thayans has among them 1d4 − 2 (minimum 0) potions Walking Dead
from among the following. The rebel Red Wizards can use the mighty magic of
the Doomvault, which traps souls, to raise fallen adven-
2d4 Potion turers as soul-bound undead. If a player chooses this
2 Flying option, a character who dies (including in session 1)
3–4 Climbing returns to play with half hit points. The character’s
5–7 Healing other resources are the same as he or she had just
8 Invisibility before death, ready to rejoin the party. Undead charac-
ters retain their normal racial and class features. The
Red Wizards. Each Red Wizard encountered in the undead character also becomes immune to disease,
adventure carries 4d10 gp. A Red Wizard also carries hunger, sleep, suffocation, and thirst while he or she
1d4 − 2 (minimum 0) scrolls, each containing a random remains undead.
Syranna warns such characters that a soul-bound
undead creature created in this way will die perma-
nently if he or she leaves the Doomvault. Furthermore,
such a creature ultimately loses its identity and
Using Allied NPCs becomes a wight under the control of the Red Wizards
Hadarr and Jekk arrive in Thay with the characters. if it remains in this state of undeath for too long. To
These NPCs have a circlet of limited telepathy. They stay have any hope of exiting the dungeon, the character
in the gatehouse to help the Thayan rebels cover for must return to life.
the characters and contain escapees from the dungeon. Syranna conveys that the undying laboratory (area
Hadarr uses his expertise to make excursions into the 31) allows such characters to transform back to living
dungeon or Thay to learn and confirm lore (see the beings, but she lacks the knowledge of how this feat is
“Doomvault Lore” section) while disguised as a Thayan. accomplished.
Syranna helps him and the other NPCs with this ruse.
Shalendra Floshin and Kelson Darktreader can be freed
from the Doomvault.
New Character
These NPCs can be used to help the characters in The player selects or creates a new character that joins
other ways. For example, a player whose character the group. The event coordinator (acting as Syranna) can
dies might be able to use one of these NPCs to finish coordinate uniting newcomers with a group in the dun-
out the session, as long as a feasible way to access the geon. Such characters might be Thayan Resurrection
party’s location exists. The event coordinator can use members anxious to join the fight against Szass Tam.
these NPCs to expedite events if the characters need a The new character could have been a prisoner in the
hand. Anyone who wants to use an NPC in an unusual Doomvault, released to help the rebels. No matter where
capacity should discuss it with the event coordinator the character comes from, he or she arrives with the
and other DMs. In any case, the event coordinator necessary resources and information to join the party.
should make sure that everyone running the game is
aware of what’s happening with these NPCs.
24

Doomvault Lore Temples of Extraction
D O O M VA U LT
Some creatures the characters encounter can divulge These pieces of lore are presented in the order in which
important information about the Doomvault. When they should be revealed:
giving out lore, a DM consults the event coordinator to F The Temples of Extraction are not temples at all but
determine available lore and then chooses the piece research facilities where Szass Tam’s followers
of information revealed, as appropriate to the creature conduct profane magical experiments. Few know
being questioned. DMs can choose to make information the specifics of what happens there.
more specific and useful, but the basics of the lore must
be conveyed. F Mennek Ariz is in the Temples of Extraction.
Each DM informs the event coordinator which F Only black gates allow access to the Temples of
pieces of lore the characters obtained, and coordinator Extraction. Only Szass Tam’s most trusted servants
crosses that item off the list of available lore. have the glyph keys attuned to that sector.
If key pieces of lore are not revealed naturally during F Szass Tam’s latest plan to become a god is his most
play, the event coordinator can use Hadarr to reveal ambitious. He intends to feed the souls of the
that information at the end or start of a session. It’s fun Chosen into his phylactery through the Temples
if Hadarr shows up every once in a while, disguised as of Extraction.
a Red Wizard or another Thayan, laden with scrolls,
maps, or other means of conveying information. F Szass Tam is making sure that his plan will work
by channeling the souls of the Chosen into the
Sectors phylacteries of his underlings, which are stored in
the Phylactery Vault beneath the Doomvault.
These are threats and rumors known to those without
firsthand experience of a sector. Creatures inside a F Disrupting the flow of soul energy into the phylac-
sector are likely to know more: teries should destroy them, dealing an incalculable
blow to Szass Tam’s power.
F In the Abyssal Prisons, the maze of undoing has no
easy exit, but fiends that can climb are said to have
somehow escaped the magic there. Phylactery Vault
These pieces of lore are presented in the order in which
F In the Far Realm Cysts, the creatures of chaos keep they should be revealed:
intruders away from a powerful shrine.
F Beneath the Doomvault, the demilich Kazit Gul
F In the Forests of Slaughter, the most cunning of slumbers in his Phylactery Vault.
hunters seek to steal glyph keys.
F Szass Tam repurposed the Phylactery Vault for his
F In the Forests of Slaughter, magic pools can heal own magical experiments.
creatures that drink from them.
F The phylacteries of the highest-ranking liches in
F In the Golem Laboratories, no Red Wizard will Szass Tam’s service rest in the Phylactery Vault,
enter the glowing green archways. protected by powerful magic. Szass Tam holds the
F In the Masters’ Domain, the Temples of Despair phylacteries there to keep his lackeys in check.
are used for the torture and execution of those who F If enough black gates across the Doomvault are dis-
oppose Szass Tam. rupted, the black gates in the Temples of Extraction
F In the Masters’ Domain, necromancy can be can be forced to connect to the Phylactery Vault.
reshaped to restore life.
F In the Ooze Grottos, the power of the white pillar
can heal or harm.
F In the Predator Pools, the hag seeks allies in her
plot against the naga.
F In the Predator Pools, vats hold power over life.
25

Session 2 “You are in the heart of the lich lord’s domain, deep
beneath the Thaymount. This is a magic gatehouse, a point of
At the start of the second session, characters find entry to the Doomvault. The Doomvault is a secret laboratory
themselves teleported half a world away. They have and containment structure, beneath which lies a hidden store-
been unconscious for a day and gain benefits as if house where the phylacteries of Szass Tam’s elite liches are
they completed a long rest. held. There, the lich lord’s power can be broken . . . with your
To start the session, the event coordinator reads aid.
the following text. “I saved your lives. Now I ask you to repay that boon. The
Bloodgate has fallen, but if you believe your homelands are
You awake in a shadowy hall with glowing teleportation circles safe, you are wrong. I offer you an opportunity to take the
etched into the floor. Other adventurers who assaulted the fight to the lich lord. With the destruction of the Bloodgate,
Bloodgate Nexus are also here. You seem to have survived the the Thaymount has been locked down. I can’t teleport you
destruction of the Bloodgate. back unless Szass Tam’s power is broken. The Phylactery
Before you have time to consider your situation, the image Vault is where you can make that happen.
of a female Red Wizard suddenly appears and speaks. “What say you?”
“I am Syranna,” she says. “It was I who saved you when the
Bloodgate shattered and your allies were too slow to extract Allied NPCs speak to the characters.
you. Trust that I am no threat. Welcome to Thay.”
“I say we do it,” Hadarr says quietly. “We won’t have a better
Syranna is present only as an image through which she chance than this to take the fight to Thay. I can use my abili-
can sense and communicate. She goes on as follows. ties to work with this sorceress, find things out, and watch out
for our interests. And if she’s lying, well,” the Calishite smirks,
“Many Red Wizards chafe under the rule of Szass Tam. Once, “I’ll root her out and end her.”
Thay was a land of learning and power. Now, death scours “I can help with that last part,” growls Jekk.
Thay while the lich lord ignores all concerns other than his
quest to become a god. If his mad plans are left to run their The event coordinator, acting as Syranna, can relate the
course, none will be left alive here to worship him. following information:
F For centuries, the Doomvault was a legend. Kazit
Syranna Gul, a Red Wizard who spent his life studying the
deadliest dungeons on many worlds, planned it.
As a living man and a lich, Gul fashioned the vast
complex based on his research. The purpose of the
dungeon was to lure explorers to their deaths and
harvest their souls to fuel Gul’s phylactery.
Roleplaying Syranna
Syranna is a rebellion leader who knows that her
life could end at any time. She means to make every
moment count. She doesn’t rest while the adventurers
assault the Doomvault.
Syranna is lawful neutral. She has a sense of righ-
teousness colored by fatalism. Her belief is that death
is better than being raised as another of Szass Tam’s
undead servants. With the characters, she is honest
and forthright, as well as cynical.
Unfortunately for the characters, Syranna isn’t famil-
iar with the inside of the Doomvault. Her position as
overseer of the gatehouse has given her only general
knowledge of the dungeon. She explains that her igno-
rance is an intentional part of the dungeon’s security
structure. If given time, however, she can confirm lore
that the characters learn.
26

F As Thay became more hostile to outsiders, fewer F The characters need to work quickly. Small teams
ABYSSAL PRISONS
people sought the Doomvault. Eventually, unable to should take on different sections of the dungeon to
fuel his phylactery, Gul became a demilich. Szass make the assault.
Tam discovered the Doomvault and saw the oppor- F Thayans have taken Shalendra Floshin and Kelson
tunity to rebuild and repurpose it. Darktreader prisoner. They are likely dead or within
F The Doomvault is a vast, active complex of labo- the Doomvault.
ratories and menageries dedicated to creating the
monstrous armies with which the Red Wizards plan Once the characters are finished talking, Syranna
to conquer first the North, then all Faerûn. teleports in a map of the dungeon for each party. Give out
The dungeon is divided into sectors dedicated to the player maps if you haven’t already done so. If you’re
creation and control of specific types of monsters. not playing the adventure as part of D&D Encounters,
F Each sector is subdivided into protected zones for you’ll find a copy of the map at the back of this adventure
security, defending against attack from outside and that you can print out. The party can look at the maps
betrayal from within, as well as the escape of con- to determine which entry point it will take. The event
fined creatures. Magical white gates block corridors, coordinator should work to ensure each group enters
preventing physical access between zones. Magical through a different point. Syranna delivers a glyph key
black gates are teleportation circles that connect dif- for the zone that each party will initially assault.
ferent parts of the dungeon. Each group also has its circlet of limited telepathy.
Groups can use these circlets to communicate with
F Magic crystals called glyph keys, when attuned to each other, as well as with Jekk and Hadarr. However,
a zone, allow access to that zone’s gates. Syranna Isteval is now thousands of miles away and beyond the
describes the use of glyph keys, including how to reach of the circlet. The other NPCs, Shalendra Floshin
transfer attunements. She also describes contact and Kelson Darktreader, have been taken prisoner and
stones and how the characters can use them to cannot communicate using the circlets at this time.
contact her directly. Through contact stones, the char-
acters can also gain glyph key attunements for the
zone in which the contact stone is situated. Syranna
can provide each party with one glyph key initially.
A byssal Prisons
Originally an area containing summoning traps, this
F Through their glyph keys, Syranna also grants the sector has been repurposed for confining demons. Thay-
characters access to the Seclusion Crypt. Anyone ans break the will of imprisoned fiends and bind them
who has a glyph key can use a black gate to which into service. Dim light radiates from walls, floors, and
the key is also attuned to teleport from the Doom- ceilings here, a manifestation of the strengthened dimen-
vault to the crypt. sional barriers, which prevent fiends from teleporting or
F The adventurers have three goals. (1) Destroy the summoning other demons within the sector.
Red Wizards monstrous creations and experiments
to end the threat to Faerûn. (2) Gain access to the Fiendish Arena
Phylactery Vault deep beneath the dungeon. (3) In this zone, a vampire named Issem culls the weakest
Destroy the phylacteries within the vault. demons using arena combat. When the demons fight,
F Tarul Var’s quarters lie in the Doomvault. Although the battle can be heard in every chamber in this zone
the lich was defeated, he may have already rematerial- (see “Pit Battle” in area 2 to aid in narrating the noise).
ized thanks to the power of his phylactery. Protected
by his dread warriors, he is a deadly threat. 1. Chandelier Chamber
F Any information on dread warriors from page 22. Scorched and shattered plaster shows faint signs of frescos
that once covered the walls here. A half-dozen ruined chande-
F Szass Tam controls entry to the Phylactery Vault. liers hang from the cracked ceiling. In the northeast corner is
Syranna knows that the vault connects to the greater a circle of runes and black onyx fragments set into the floor,
Doomvault, but the rebels have not yet discovered exuding shadowy energy like curling black smoke.
how to access it.
F The rebels will use their power to stop magical com- Creatures. Two vampire spawn keep watch here,
munications to the outside and contain any enemies along with two wights and two zombies. A quasit
who escape from the Doomvault. They’ll make sure perches invisibly on a chandelier.
that no one outside the dungeon knows of or reacts to Negotiation. Prisoners regularly move through the
what’s happening until the characters succeed. black gate here. The adventurers can bluff their way
through by talking to Eldrath, a female human vampire
spawn that challenges them. If the characters fail to
27

talk their way through or make it obvious in any way
that they don’t belong here, the monsters attack.
Roleplaying Issem
2. Arena An old curse binds Issem to the Doomvault and Thayan
This area might once have been a columned temple, its rot- service, but he hates the Red Wizards, so he is willing
ting tapestries showing foul creatures tormenting humanoids to talk. He can offer two pieces of lore, and he allows
in scenes of slaughter and sacrifice. At the center of this vast prisoners and the characters to flee the area. He is will-
space, the stone floor has been hewn to create a pit. This pit is ing to lie to any Thayans seeking the adventurers and
covered with the gory remains of past bloodshed. help them cover their tracks.
The vampire warns anyone who tries to enter area
Creatures. A pale human vampire in lavish clothes, 3 against doing so. If someone does anyway, Issem and
Issem is normally in this area, watching battles. his allies attack.
Fighting Pit. This rough-hewn arena is 15 feet deep
and imbued with powerful binding (abjuration) magic.
Any living creature that approaches within 10 feet of
the edge must succeed on a DC 13 Wisdom saving Treasure. Issem has a glyph key attuned to this zone.
throw or leap into the pit. Such a creature can’t leave He is willing to share the key only for a taste of a char-
the pit until all demons within it are destroyed. The pit acter’s blood. Any character who agrees to this bargain
is otherwise easy to climb. automatically suffers the effects of Issem’s bite attack.
Pit Battle. In the pit, a vrock is fighting prisoners, Dungeon State. If the characters take Issem up on
nine of whom are human commoners. The tenth is Sha- his offer to cover for them, and the vampire survives the
lendra Floshin. Half the humans each deal the vrock session, tell the event coordinator to subtract 1 from the
1 slashing damage each round, and Shalendra deals dungeon’s alert level.
the demon her normal damage every other round. The Shalendra. Thayans captured Shalendra after Baazka
vrock is weakened from prior combat and torment in threw her through the Bloodgate. She has managed to
area 11, so it is a reduced threat. It focuses on one target survive and help other prisoners stay alive. While doing
each round (roll randomly). If the characters join the so, she has learned one piece of lore. Shalendra asks for
battle, the vrock attacks them. a glyph key, then goes to the gatehouse to recuperate and
join Hadarr. Before she does so, she
can help the party for the rest of the
session if they (and you) wish.
3. Issem’s Vault
Deadly traps, which Issem avoids
while in mist form, protect the
vampire’s sarcophagus.
This chamber has walls draped in black

silk. Gleaming prisms float in midair,
spinning slowly. At the center of the
area, a great sarcophagus with its lid
pushed ajar stands atop a stone dais.
Along the upper edge of the sarcopha-
gus, a series of arcane glyphs pulse with
pale white light.
Cursed Prisms. Unless Issem is

in the room, each character who is
in the room and can see the prisms
must make a DC 13 Wisdom
saving throw on each of his or her
turns. The first time each character
fails the save in a given session, a
wraith that looks like a shadowy
duplicate of that character erupts
from a prism and attacks.
28

Pit Traps. As shown on the map, the floor has many Creatures. If you ran Scourge of the Sword Coast, and
ABYSSAL PRISONS
pit traps. the party discovered and defeated Pencheska, who
Contact Stone. The glyphs on the sarcophagus is a slave to Tarul Var, then she has returned to the
make it a contact stone. Doomvault to await further instructions from the lich.
Treasure. Inside the sarcophagus are three detect She currently wears the guise of Natyssa, an attractive
magic scrolls, two comprehend languages scrolls, one human courtesan and a form she enjoyed using to sow
greater restoration scroll, and a glyph key attuned to this chaos in Daggerford. Two Thayan warriors, who are in
zone. Also inside is a writing kit with fifteen sheets of her thrall, guard her.
parchment. If Pencheska is alerted to the characters approach,
she takes on a form with which the characters are
Temple of Chaos familiar, such as Lady Maldwyn or Shalendra. She
attempts to convince the characters that she’s being
Tarul Var reconfigured this zone for his use.
held prisoner.
Pencheska isn’t pleased with her situation and won’t
4. Mystic Circles directly oppose the characters unless they attack her.
The wood-paneled walls of this long hall are scorched. Cracks She is even willing to provide a piece of lore about the
in the panels reveal bare stone. Three mystic circles have been phylactery vault in the hope that the characters might
scribed in the floor, each edged with rough runes. destroy Tarul Var for good, freeing her to escape the
Doomvault.
Double Doors. These steel double doors are locked If no members of the party helped reveal the succub-
with a key in Tarul Var’s possession. bus’s subterfuge in the previous adventure, then this
Steel Orb. A steel orb is hidden in a recess in the room is vacant.
ceiling 20 feet up. Spotting it requires a DC 20 Wisdom Closets. The sliding wooden doors open to reveal
(Perception) check. The steel orb is part of the mystic closets that contain fine female clothing in numer-
circle trap (see below). ous styles and sizes. The easternmost closet contains
Mystic Circle Trap. The circles are magical
(abjuration) but misleadingly so. A successful DC 15
Pencheska
Intelligence (Arcana) check reveals that hidden among
gibberish runes are warding glyphs that discharge light-
ning. A character who fails this check discerns the false
runes but fails to decipher the glyphs among them.
The trap activates 3 rounds after the first creature
enters the room. (Tarul Var’s steel key disables the trap
for 1 minute when it is used to open the door to area
5.) At the start of the fourth round, and every 2 rounds
thereafter, one circle (chosen randomly) glows white. At
the end of the same round, lightning discharges through
the room from a steel orb in the ceiling. A detect magic
spell reveals its evocation aura. When the lightning
discharges, any creature in the room that fails a DC 10
Dexterity saving throw takes 7 (2d6) lightning damage.
A character who touches the steel orb and succeeds
on a DC 15 Intelligence (Arcana) check can suppress
the orb’s magic, disabling the trap for 1d4 rounds. A
dispel magic spell cast on the orb suppresses the magic
for 1 hour. In both cases, the character doesn’t know
how much time the suppression might last. The circles
continue to glow at random.
5. Succubus Vault
The sweet scent of incense hangs in the hot air of this opulent
chamber. The walls are covered with silk tapestries in green and
yellow, and the floors are spread with cushions. To the south,
two sets of sliding double wooden doors are set in the walls.
29

a hemispherical runed stone in the middle of its back This enormous hall is set with rows of pillars carved in the
wall. The stone serves as a contact stone in this zone. shapes of elemental or demonic creatures. A great rift has
Heat. This chamber is uncomfortably hot due to the been torn in the center of the stone floor. Through it, a stream
fire elemental in area 6. The heat grows more intense to of chaotic energy blasts upward, flowing into a similar rift in
the east and in the eastern secret passage. the vaulted ceiling 40 feet above. Tendrils split off from the
Treasure. The treasure contained in this room pulsing column of energy, lashing out to strike the nearest pillars.
includes items that Pencheska received from Duke In the southwest corner is a circle of runes and black onyx
Maldwyn while she was seducing him in the events of fragments set into the floor, exuding shadowy energy like
Scourge of the Sword Coast. A character who succeeds on curling black smoke.
a DC 15 Intelligence check can recognize the items and
clothes as being from Daggerford (and, if the character A character who succeeds on a DC 10 Intelligence
visited the Duke, specifically being from his collection). (Arcana) check can tell that the rift is channeling elemental
The items include a gold gorget set with yellow forces. If the check succeeds by 5 or more, the charac-
topazes (500 gp), matching earrings (250 gp), a ruby ter knows that the rift is dangerous and is channeling
ring (300 gp), an intricate jade necklace (400 gp) and extraplanar elemental forces into another part of the dun-
two matching jade rings (200 gp each). geon. Further, the rift can be overloaded if used to send
In the westernmost closet, a glyph key attuned to creatures from this area to one of the elemental planes.
this zone hangs on a hook among jewelry, including If a non-elemental creature ends its turn inside the
a simple gold necklace and bracelet (250 gp each), a room, it takes 5 (2d4) damage of a random type (roll
silver necklace with a garnet pendant (250 gp), and an 1d10).
ivory necklace (100 gp).
1d10 Damage Type
6. Elemental Furnace 1–2 Acid
A character listening at either doorway feels heat and 3–4 Cold
hears a crackling roar. 5–6 Fire
7–8 Lightning
A blast of heat escapes as the door opens. A howling creature 9–10 Thunder
of flame roils at the center of a soot-streaked stone chamber
whose walls are lined with glowing runes. Any creature that enters the rift can choose to remain
here or go to an elemental plane. Characters who go to
Fire Elemental. The elemental surges toward any an elemental plane must use the rift to return on their
creature it can see, but the wall runes flare when it does. next turn or they become trapped and can no longer
It can’t leave the room or attack. Instead, it babbles in participate in this adventure.
Ignan (a dialect of Primordial) about “wanting home.”
Runes on the wall make up arcane bonds (successful Abyssal Gate
DC 15 Intelligence [Arcana] to identify). If a charac- Tarul Var oversees this zone, in which the Thayans have
ter who can cast spells succeeds on three consecutive tapped Abyssal power.
DC 15 Intelligence (Arcana) checks while continu-
ally touching the wall, the bonds are suppressed long 8. Summoning Chamber
enough for the elemental to leave the room. However,
A character listening at the doors can hear the shrieks
any creature that ends its turn in the room takes 3
of any demons bound here.
(1d6) fire damage. A dispel magic spell suppresses the
bonds for 1 minute.
This area might once have been a great banquet hall, but its
The elemental follows its rescuer for the rest of the
furnishings now lie in rotting piles along the walls. Between
session, fighting alongside that person. If the elemen-
rows of pillars, six great magic circles glow brightly, illuminat-
tal sees the rift in area 7, it uses the rift to return to the
ing the whole chamber.
Elemental Plane of Fire.
Dungeon State. Toward the end of the session, the
Guards. One dread warrior, two wights, and six
fire elemental feels area 7’s extraplanar energy and is
zombies patrol the area.
drawn to it. The elemental then leaves the Doomvault
Summoning Circles. Two summoning circles are
through the rift.
empty. The others contain creatures; the ones noted as
injured are at half their hit point maximum as a result
7. Chaos Rift of the binding process.
Characters approaching down the corridor can hear A) One hezrou (injured, reduced threat)
the roar of the elemental rift, which also generates B) Four quasits
bright light in this area. C) One vrock (injured, reduced threat)
D) Ten manes
30

A bound demon can’t escape from its circle with- If reduced to 30 hit points or fewer, Var offers the
ABYSSAL PRISONS
out assistance, and nothing it does can pass the circle’s party access to his duplicate glyph key and his steel
boundary. All demons besides the manes ask for key (see the “Treasure” section), as well as information
release, promising to attack the Thayan forces. As an (equivalent to two pieces of lore), in exchange for his
action, a character can simply mar the silver bound- freedom and his silence. If the characters let Var go, he
ary of a circle to disrupt the circle’s magic for 1 minute. flees the Doomvault. If the lich is destroyed again and
During that time, a demon within the circle can break doesn’t reappear during this adventure, and he may be
free with a successful DC 15 Wisdom check. If one destroyed permanently if the party succeeds collapsing
demon escapes its circle, each demon in the circle can the phylactery vault.
then leave it if the creature does so immediately. Contact Stone. A circle of glowing glyphs above
A freed demon attacks the nearest creature that Var’s desk in the western section of the room serves as a
isn’t a demon. contact stone.
Dungeon State. If any demon besides the manes Treasure. Tarul Var has a glyph key that is attuned
remains free in this area, all the demons are eventually to this zone and the Temples of Anguish zone (in the
freed from their circles. That fact should be noted as Temples of Extraction sector). He also has an ornate
part of the dungeon state. steel key (worth 5 gp) to the locked doors in area 4.
A search of the desk reveals several drafts of a letter
9. Dead End to Szass Tam in which Var begs for another chance to
A set of double doors is inlaid with brass filigree, marking out bring the Sword Coast under Thayan domination (if the
the shapes of angelic figures. players participated in Scourge of the Sword Coast, this
letter may recount some of the events from that adven-
Advance Warning. A successful DC 15 Intelligence ture). Inside the desk’s several drawers are a potion of
(Search) check made to search the floor reveals that mind reading and duplicates of the glyph key and steel
no creature has entered this side passage in months. key that Var carries.
A character who can track needn’t make a check to The largest drawer is held closed with an arcane lock
search the floor and learn the same information. spell (successful DC 25 Strength check to break). Inside is
If viewed with detect magic, the area also has an aura a gold coffer wrought to look like a sleeping dragon with
of necromancy, which grows stronger to the east. violet garnet eyes (1,000 gp) and a box of black wood with
Stunning Shadow Trap. When the doors are a stylized spiral on it (see the next section). The coffer
opened, roll initiative. Darkness immediately fills the holds 200 pp and a dark river rock (a loadstone).
corridor out to 20 feet from the doors. Any living crea- True Name Box. If detect magic is used on the black
ture that starts its turn in the area must succeed on a box, something within it has a faint aura of evocation
DC 15 Charisma saving throw or take 7 (2d6) necrotic magic. The box contains several pieces of parchment.
damage and become paralyzed until the start of its next The first page stored in the box has runes on it that,
turn, when it must repeat the saving throw. The darkness when read by anyone other than Tarul Var, cause the
remains as long as the doors are open. page to explode. Everyone within 10 feet of the box
must make a DC 15 Dexterity saving throw, which the
10. Tarul Var’s Quarters reader makes with disadvantage. A creature takes 21
(6d6) force damage on a failed saving throw and half on
Tapestries line the walls of these well-appointed living quar-
a successful one. The box and its contents are destroyed
ters. Standing screens divide the space into smaller sections
if the runes go off.
containing couches, tables, and desks.
The runes can be disabled by using dispel magic on
the box or the page, or by making a successful DC 15
Creatures. Tarul Var is here, with four dread war-
Intelligence check to remove the page without inad-
riors as guards. The lich wields a staff of evocation (see
vertently reading the runes and folding the page so the
Appendix 1). Having lost the Bloodgate, Var is confined
runes are no longer visible. Failure on this check indi-
to this area awaiting Szass Tam’s judgment. If Var was
cates that the character reads the runes accidentally,
destroyed, the power channeling through the Phylactery
setting them off.
Vault allowed him a quick rebirth.
The box contains records of true names of minor
The lich attacks immediately, venting his rage on
devils and describes plans to use them in the attack on
those he recognizes from Bloodgate Keep. His guards
the Sword Coast. It also contains historical documents
emerge from various positions to screen him from direct
that indicate Var was searching for the true name
attack. As an action, a dread warrior can cast one of
of Baazka.
Tarul Var’s spells as though the lich had cast it (see the
sidebar on page 22 for more details).
The dread warriors drag any helpless character they
can to the pit in the intersection near this room or to
area 9, where they throw open the doors.
31

11. Torture Chamber 1 minute. Then the creature is released and falls to the
floor. Moving onto or over the floor triggers it again,
A character listening at the doors can hear the howls of
but the creature can remain safe if it stays in the space
the glabrezu if it’s bound here.
where it fell.
To deactivate the trap, a creature must step over one
The walls of this torture chamber are hung with chains and
of the false pit traps (see below).
spears encrusted with black ichor. In a few places, heavy black
Aura. A detect magic spell reveals the whole room
chains are fastened to the floor. In the northeast corner is a
has an aura of transmutation, focused most strongly at
circle of runes and black onyx fragments set into the floor,
the open mouth of each pit.
exuding shadowy energy like curling black smoke.
False Pit Trap. The open pits appear normal. How-
ever, 1 foot from the lip of each pit is an invisible force
Creatures. A wight and seven skeletons are torment-
field. The horizontal field can hold the weight of any
ing a prone glabrezu demon shackled to the floor. The
number of characters, and walking across a field deacti-
undead attack interlopers, using pikes as weapons (1d10
vates the room’s trap for 1 minute.
piercing damage). The undead have magic weapons (see
“Treasure”) and lack shields (–2 to AC).
Shackled Glabrezu. The bound glabrezu can’t free 13. Sorlan’s Haunt
itself. It is at half its hit point maximum and can’t cast The lock plainly visible on the double doors is false.
spells or summon demons. The glabrezu can attack The real locks and keyholes are hidden in the base of
only if a creature comes within its reach, which is why each door and detectable with a successful DC 15 Intel-
the undead are using pikes. When a battle starts, the ligence (Search) check. If any attempt is made to pick
demon demands to be freed, promising to “lay waste a false lock or force the doors, any creature within 10
to these undead and their masters.” If the characters feet of the doors must succeed on a DC 14 Constitution
refuse, it attacks them if it can. saving throw (with disadvantage, if trying to pick or force
To free the demon, a character must pick the locks of the doors) or take 5 (2d4) force damage and fall prone.
all four iron shackles (successful DC 15 Dexterity check
for each). If freed, the glabrezu rampages, randomly This ruined chamber has tapestries and paintings slashed
attacking anyone in reach. Once free, it can cast spells, and shot through with black mold. Fine furnishings and cush-
but it still can’t summon demons. ions are rotted through and crumbling, the air heavy with the
Shackles. The ten sets of shackles and their chains scent of decay.
are made of rune-scribed iron. A demon held in them
can’t escape them while the shackles are closed. The Creature. A ghost named Sorlan is bound to this
transmutation magic on the chains renders them room. Sorlan is a former adventurer who was impris-
unbreakable, so they can’t be removed from this room. oned by the Red Wizards and subjected to horrible
Dungeon State. If the glabrezu is left free in this experiments. He hates the Red Wizards, and imme-
area, all the demons in area 8 are eventually freed from diately attacks all who enter his chamber, screaming
their circles. That fact should be noted as part of the that allies of the Red Wizards must die. If the party
dungeon state. convinces Sorlan that it is opposed to the Red Wiz-
Treasure. The skeletons’ spears are enchanted ards (a DC 15 Charisma [Persuasion] check), he ceases
with magic weapon (+1) for 2 more hours. The wight his attacks and can provide two pieces of lore, which
wields a +1 pike. he has overheard from passing Red Wizards. Sorlan
also warns the characters away from area 15, which
is where he was captured while trying to escape the
Halls of Conditioning dungeon. (He doesn’t know the trick to overcoming
After their initial subjugation, captured demons are the teleportation trap). If slain, Sorlan reappears in this
held here to be properly broken to service. room 24 hours later.
Glyph Keys. Sorlan directs those interested in glyph
12. False Pit Gauntlet keys to the Thayans in area 14. The ghost neither has
The walls here are worked stone, but the 30-foot-high ceiling nor needs such a device.
of this broad chamber is rough rock hung with jagged stalac-
tites. Seams in the floor tiles divide the floor into squares 5 14. Demon Cells
feet on a side. An open pit trap is in front of each of the room’s Cages line this chamber from floor to ceiling, three of them
four doorways. stocked with demons pounding futilely and silently against
their confinement.
Any creature that enters the room is hurled upward to
the ceiling, taking 10 (3d6) piercing damage from the Creatures. One Red Wizard oversees two deathlock
stalactites and remaining restrained on the ceiling for wights, and two Thayan apprentices.
32

Cells. Cells confining demons contain the following
Blood Pens
B LO O D P E N S
creatures.
A) One hezrou The Red Wizards are breeding and raising monsters in
B) Eight quasits their own foul nurseries.
C) Two vrocks
Vermin Halls
Each cell has iron, rune-scribed bars (warded against The vermin-summoning magic of these halls now
demons). Transmutation magic on the bars renders serves the Thayans.
them unbreakable, so a demon can make no attempt
to escape the cell and, indeed, can’t pass any part of its
body through the bars. Further, no sound can pass out
16. Gallery of Swarms
of a cell into the larger room. To free a demon, a char- The Red Wizards no longer use this chamber.
acter must open the lock on the cage door (successful Sounds. A character who listens at the doors and
DC 20 Dexterity check to pick). A freed demon attacks succeeds on a DC 10 Wisdom (Perception) check hears
everyone in the room. distant chittering.
Keys. The Red Wizard has a glyph key attuned to Light. None.
this zone, as well as a ring of keys to the cells.
Dungeon State. If any demon remains free in this The sunken floor of this huge hall is completely covered in
area, all the demons are eventually freed from their cells. dead insects, their dried shells shifting and whispering in a
That fact should be noted as part of the dungeon state. faint breeze. Dozens of demonic faces are carved in the white
marble walls of the chamber, the slight gusts whistling from
each of their open mouths. Down the center of the chamber,
15. Maze of Undoing toward the double doors at the far end, a series of black stone
A long corridor of gray granite runs perpendicular to the platforms are set like oversized stepping stones.
entrance to this area, with six more corridors branching
off from it. Demonic Faces. The mouths of these relief carvings
are also the source of the magical breeze (conjuration).
Teleportation Maze. Powerful conjuration magic Insect Floor. The floor is 2 feet below the level of
(teleportation) infuses the area. It is strongest at trig- the doors and filled completely with dead insects along
ger points numbered 1–20, plus two entry/exit trigger with occasional bones, making it difficult terrain.
points (E), on the map. Any creature that enters a trig- Pit Traps. Hidden beneath the insects and scattered
ger point while not touching the ceiling is teleported across the room are buried pit traps. It is impossible to
to the ceiling of another trigger point (rolled on a d20) notice a pit accidentally; finding one requires a success-
and must succeed on a DC 11 Charisma saving throw ful DC 20 Intelligence (Search) check. Each pit is filled
or take 5 (2d4) psychic damage. Unless the creature with dead insects, so falling into one deals only half
wishes to leave the ceiling, it remains there until the damage. However, someone buried in these husks can’t
end of its next turn. Then it falls. breathe or see.
The entry/exit points also radiate potent abjuration Trapped Platforms. Whenever a creature steps
magic. Until someone utters the proper passphrase, a onto a platform, it must succeed on a DC 10 Charisma
demon in the maze can’t pass through the entry/exit saving throw or a swarm of biting, stinging insects
points. Nothing the demon does can pass the point’s surges from the demonic faces to engulf the target,
boundary. For non-demons, leaving the maze is a dealing 5 (2d4) piercing damage and 5 (2d4) poison
simple matter of doing so along the ceiling. damage, and forcing the character to succeed on a DC
Trapped Glabrezu. A glabrezu is trapped in the 15 Dexterity saving throw or fall in a random direction
maze. When the characters arrive, place the glabrezu at off the platform. The insects die and fall to the floor
a random teleportation trigger point in the maze. Until immediately after their attack.
it sees the characters, it moves through another trig-
ger point on each of its turns. Because of previous torture,
the demon is a reduced threat. In its rage and madness, it
17. Crawling Hall
attempts to move toward characters it can see and attacks Two enormous pillars on the far side of this chamber emit
any creatures it manages to reach. brilliant white light that holds the attention of hundreds of
giant vermin on and around them. Sudden movement marks
isolated fights between spiders and beetles, but most of these
creatures move sluggishly, as if the light has them subdued.
33

Glowing Pillars. The pillars emit magical light
(evocation), which pacifies the vermin and keeps their
Swine Run
These adjoining halls have been repurposed as a pig
handlers safe.
farm to feed carnivorous monsters.
Creatures. Two Thayan apprentices are feeding the
vermin buckets of pig escrement and scraps. Six Thayan
warriors are guarding the apprentices. All the creatures 19. Walkway Pen
attack as soon as they notice intruders. Each round of Sounds. The unmistakable squealing and grunting
combat, 1 giant spider and 1 giant centipede join the fight. of pigs can be heard anywhere nearby.
Dungeon State. Vermin left in this chamber grow Blocked Stairs. Slabs of stone, each 5 feet high,
hungry, feeding on any dead creatures. Within a few block the stairs that descend into this hall. Climbing
hours, they begin killing and feeding on each other. over a slab costs 10 feet of movement. Knocking a slab
Glyph Key. One Thayan has a glyph key attuned to down requires a successful DC 20 Strength check.
this zone. If any slabs fall, packs of pigs rush into the open area.
See the “Pigpens” section.
18. Barracks
Rough cots scattered across the floor contrast with the far end What once must have been a great hall has is now a massive
of the room, which has a great seat of white marble. Most of the swine pen. Pigs, perhaps hundreds of them, are packed in here
magic lights are shrouded, so the east side of the room is dimly lit. shoulder to shoulder. Thayans dump food from a series of
In the northeast corner is a circle of runes and black onyx hanging bridges lashed to the broad pillars that support the
fragments set into the floor, exuding shadowy energy like ceiling. Each pillar is marked with a large X in red paint.
curling black smoke. West of it is a glowing circle of glyphs on
the wall about 3 feet from the floor. Creatures. Two Thayan apprentices are here with
two deathlock wights and six skeletons. They attack
Creatures. Six Thayan apprentices, three deathlock intruders.
wights, and eight Thayan warriors are resting here. Aura. A detect magic spell reveals a faint transmuta-
Half of the warriors and half of the apprentices are tion aura on the whole area, which is a simple magical
asleep in the eastern side of the chamber. When the effect to control the pigs’ odor.
creatures notice the adventurers,
they attack. Stagger the sleeping
Thayans so they join the fight over
the course of 2 rounds.
Throne Swarm Trap. The
20-foot-tall white throne is a magic
trap (conjuration) that the Thay-
ans might use if desperate. When
any living creature climbs onto
it, the throne erupts in a swarm
of stinging insects that quickly
fills the chamber. Each creature
in the room takes 9 (2d8) pierc-
ing damage and 9 (2d8) poison
damage. For 1 minute thereafter,
each creature that ends its turn
in the room takes 4 (1d8) pierc-
ing damage and 4 (1d8) poison
damage. The insects disappear
after 1 minute, and the trap resets.
Contact Stone. The circle of
glowing glyphs serves as a contact
stone.
Glyph Keys. Two Thayans
each have a glyph key attuned
to this zone. Additionally, one
of them has a glyph key attuned
to the Swine Run zone, and the
other has a glyph key attuned to
the Hatchery zone.
34

Bridges. Unsteady plank bridges hang 10 feet above In the southeast corner is a circle of runes and black onyx
B LO O D P E N S
the floor, slung between pillars and lashed to the slabs fragments set into the floor, exuding shadowy energy like
of rock blocking the stairs. Any creature that falls curling black smoke. North of it is a glowing circle of glyphs
unconscious while on a bridge has a 50 percent chance on the wall about 3 feet from the floor.
to fall into the pigpen.
Enchanted Pillars. A detect magic spell reveals Aura. A detect magic spell reveals a faint transmuta-
that each pillar radiates an aura of enchantment. Any tion aura on the whole area, which is a simple magical
humanoid that touches a pillar must succeed on a DC effect to control the odor of the butchery.
13 Wisdom saving throw or fall unconscious for 1 Creatures. Twelve Thayan warriors are here, with a
minute. The Thayans marked the pillars as a reminder. wight overseeing them. Eight work to the south, stack-
A dispel magic spell suppresses the magic of the pillars ing butchered pigs along the wall. To the north, four
for 1 minute. more sluice offal, occasionally tossing some toward an
Floating Disk. An opaque, slightly concave, circular otyugh chained to the floor.
plane of force (evocation), 5 feet in diameter, floats on The otyugh can move 40 feet from the northeast
the northern side of the northern bridge to area 20. The corner, as the dotted line on the map shows. It attacks
disk can hold up to 1,000 pounds. It is stationary and any creature it can reach. If it can’t attack, the otyugh
level with the bridge, but it can be mentally directed by uses its turn to attempt a DC 20 Strength check to
anyone who can see it (DC 10 Intelligence) to float to break its chain while its captors are distracted.
the blocked stairway that leads up to the Vermin Halls With its childlike intellect and telepathy, the otyugh
(areas 16–18). broadcasts its desire for more food. The characters are
Pigpens. The pigs are maltreated, hungry, and irri- able to communicate with the creature, and if they offer
tated. They swarm any creature that enters the pen. to feed it, the otyugh ceases attacking for 1 round. Then
Such a creature must succeed on a DC 13 Dexterity the characters must periodically placate it with success-
saving throw at the start of each of its turns or take ful DC 10 Charisma (Persuasion) checks. A character
3 (1d6) bludgeoning damage and 3 (1d6) piercing who frees the otyugh learns that more of its kind are in
damage. Characters who take maximum damage fall the dungeon and receives a general impression of area
prone. Attacks against the pigs have little effect, but an 42. These otyughs hate the Red Wizards.
area spell clears its area of pigs until the end of the cast- Niches. The shallow niches are 3 feet off the floor
er’s next turn. and 5 feet high. Climbing into a niche costs 10 feet of
One pig among the group is much smaller than the movement.
others, and looks especially worse for wear. If a charac- Dungeon State. If the otyugh is given a glyph key to
ter uses detect magic, he or she finds that the pig radiates the Prison of Filth zone and told how to use a black gate,
transmutation magic. The pig is in fact a lightfoot half- it teleports to area 41 and reaches area 42. Its presence
ling named Drevin. He was a minstrel that ran amok of there might change the encounter (see area 42).
a Red Wizard transmuter on the borders of Thay after Contact Stone. The circle of glowing glyphs serves
reciting a biting limerick about the wizards. If freed of as a contact stone.
the polymorph spell (using a dispel magic or the like), he Glyph Keys. The wight has a glyph key attuned to
accompanies the characters until he thinks it is safe this zone and the Prison of Filth zone (areas 41 and 42).
to attempt to escape the Doomvault, at which point he
departs amid promises to write great ballads about the
characters’ exploits.
Hatchery
Thayans hatch the eggs of exotic monsters in this zone,
The enclosed area beneath the walkway is filled with
rearing the young to serve Thay.
sows and piglets. The DC for the Dexterity saving throw
here is only 8.
Glyph Keys. Among them, the Thayans have four 21. Egg Chamber
glyph keys attuned to this zone—two among the appren- The approach to this chamber is notably warm and humid.
tices and two with the deathlock wights.
Heat wafts from this chamber, and steam obscures parts of
20. Abattoir the room. Stone braziers built into the walls burn with orange
flame, as do braziers set across the room. The floor is cov-
If the packs of pigs rush into the room, they move
ered with sand and set with dozens of massive eggs of various
unwittingly toward the warriors, knocking half of them
colors and textures.
prone before retreating to area 19.
Creatures. Two Red Wizards, one dread warrior,
Empty wall niches might once have held works of art, but this
and six skeletons oversee the eggs. The mages send the
broad gallery has been converted to an abattoir, its floor slick
undead forward as a screen and use spells that won’t
with filth and gore.
harm the eggs.
35

Braziers. The magic stone braziers (evocation) are Each cage has rune-scribed bars of steel. Transmuta-
built into the room and can’t be moved. A creature that tion magic on the bars renders them unbreakable, so
touches a brazier takes 3 (1d6) fire damage. A creature a creature within can’t phsically or magically attack
can take this damage only once per turn. through the bars. To free a creature, a character must
Eggs. Clusters of eggs make this entire area diffi- open a lock on the cage door (successful DC 15 Dexter-
cult terrain. None of the eggs is close to hatching. One ity check to pick).
person with a weapon could destroy the eggs in about 5 If freed from their cages, the young attack the
minutes. Leaving the eggs here untended also renders nearest creatures, but they fear the Thayans. When a
them lifeless. The eggs are from an assortment of crea- Thayan and a character are equally close to a young, it
tures, including hook horrors, remorhaz, wyverns, and targets the character.
basilisks, with 1d6 + 1 of each type. It requires a suc- Contact Stone. The circle of glowing glyphs serves
cessful DC 20 Intelligence (Nature) check to identify all as a contact stone.
types of eggs. Glyph Keys. Each Red Wizard has a glyph key
Steam. A haze of steam renders this chamber lightly attuned to this zone and the keys to each cage.
obscured.
Glyph Keys. Each Red Wizard has a glyph key
attuned to this zone.
Dark Gardens
Once deadly gardens, these chambers have been
repurposed to support the Blood Pens.
22. Hatchling Pens
Anyone near the doors hears the shrieking and howling 23. Dead Garden
of the caged creatures.
Dead and blackened thorny vines cover the walls and floor,
which are lined with small circular holes the size of a human fist.
Relief carvings of angelic figures along the walls of this huge
In the northeast corner is a circle of runes and black onyx
hall contrast with the crowded iron cages here. Half of these
fragments set into the floor, exuding shadowy energy like
cells are packed with miniature, shrieking versions of deadly
curling black smoke.
monsters.
In the southeast corner is a circle of runes and black onyx
Creatures. Seven zombies and two wights are
focused on the doors to areas 22 and 24. Those who
curling black smoke. North of it is a glowing circle of glyphs
appear by way of the black gate can attack immediately
on the wall about 3 feet from the floor.
to gain surprise.
Unless attacked, the undead grant free passage to
Aura. A detect magic spell reveals a faint transmuta-
anyone who appears to be a Thayan and knows the
tion aura on the whole area, which is a simple magical
room’s passphrase (“That which is dead, stay so”). The
effect to control the odor of the hatchlings and their
wight challenges those who know the phrase but look
food.
like intruders. It takes a successful DC 20 Charisma
Creatures. Two Red Wizards oversee two Thayan
(Deception, Intimidation, or Persuasion) check to con-
apprentices in caring for the imprisoned hatchlings,
vince the wight to stand down.
while four Thayan warriors stand guard. They attack
Aura. A detect magic spell reveals an aura of trans-
intruders. In a desperate battle, a Red Wizard might
mutation magic in each hole, hinting at the blood vines
take the time to release hatchlings.
trap. If the trap is dormant, the aura is faint but slowly
If the battle goes badly for the Thayans, one of the
increasing in intensity.
Red Wizards surrenders. Her name is Myrja, and her
Blood Vines Trap. If a living creature moves 10 feet
allegiance to Szass Tam is less than resolute. If the
or more into the room without uttering the passphrase,
adventurers spare her, she offers the passphrase to the
animated vines shoot out of the holes and fill the area.
trap in area 23 (“That which is dead, stay so”) and one
The vines ignore the undead. Any living creature in the
other piece of lore.
area must succeed on a DC 15 Dexterity saving throw
Cages. Half the cages here are empty. The others
or become restrained. A creature takes 11 (2d10) pierc-
hold the following monsters.
ing damage each time it starts its turn restrained in this
A) One remorhaz young
way. As an action, a restrained creature can free itself
B) Four basilisk young
or another creature with a successful DC 15 Strength
C) Ten ettercap young
(Athletics) check, or free only itself with a successful
D) One remorhaz young
DC 15 Dexterity (Acrobatics) check. A vine can also be
E) Two carrion crawler young
killed (AC 15; 8 hit points).
F) One behir young
While the vines remain, the room is lightly obscured
G) Two hook horror young
and difficult terrain. A creature takes 2 (1d4) piercing
H) One wyvern young
damage for every 5 feet it moves through the room. A
36

creature that moves more than 15 feet during its turn Thuria spends much of his time in seclusion, and
B LO O D P E N S
must immediately repeat the Dexterity saving throw or relishes the opportunity to fight intruders. However,
become restrained (as above). if reduced to 20 hit points or fewer, he surrenders and
If a round ends in which no creature is restrained, offers two pieces of lore in exchange for his life. He is
all the vines immediately die. The trap then goes dor- also willing to give up his treasure and copies of his
mant for 1 hour. glyph keys, turning over the actual keys only under
Glyph Keys. The wights have glyph keys attuned to severe threat.
this zone. Dungeon State. If Thuria survives an initial
encounter with the player characters, he and any sur-
24. Pale Garden viving allies go on patrol, attacking any intruders in the
The Red Wizards have repurposed this magical garden Doomvault. Tell the event coordinator to add this group
as a food source. The room is filled with dim light. to the special encounters.
Garden Beds. Enchantment magic imbues the
The scent of decaying plants hangs over a vast and verdant garden beds. Any living humanoid that spends more
underground garden. White vines, trembling as if touched than 1 minute here must succeed on a DC 12 Charisma
by an unseen breeze, twine around cracked pillars that glow saving throw or fall unconscious. At the end of each of
slightly with pale light. Between the pillars, ashen flowers, its turns, the creature can repeat the saving throw to
sickly gray shrubs, and giant mushrooms stand in dense end the effect. On any successful save, the creature is
groves around a couple of gravel paths. immune to the effect for 24 hours. The creatures here
Many baskets full of plant matter are stacked on shelves are already immune to this effect.
carved into the wall near the doors. Thuria’s Repose. The middle garden bed among
the three southernmost beds is full of plants shaped
Creatures. Twelve unarmed humanoid skeletons like pieces of furniture. A circular shrub serves as a
wander the area, harvesting plant material in large resting couch, an angular one is solid enough to use as a
baskets. As they tear off growths, a crackling sound desk, and others nearby serve as small chairs.
accompanies an increase in the glow of a nearby pillar, Contact Stone. On the southern wall near Thuria’s
and the harvested plant starts to rapidly regrow. place of repose is a circle of glowing glyphs that serves
The skeletons ignore intruders unless attacked or as a contact stone.
damaged, in which case they all attack trespassers in Treasure. Thuria wears a gold circlet set with
the room. rubies (1,000 gp) and a gold cuff (100 gp). He carries a
Three shambling mounds hide in the groves, ignor- scroll of fly and a potion of healing, as well as glyph keys
ing the skeletons. These mounds are trained to ignore attuned to this zone, the Vermin Halls, the Swine Run,
anyone who remains within 15 feet of the doorways, the Hatchery, and the Temples of Turmoil zone (Tem-
where baskets can be gathered from the shelves. They ples of Extraction sector).
wait to ambush any living creature that draws near. The dread warrior has a +1 longsword and a gold cuff
Dense Garden. Any area within 5 feet of a pillar that matches Thuria’s.
and not shown on the map as a path is difficult terrain. In Thuria’s “desk” are dull records of the important
Pillars. The chamber’s pillars respond to damage to functions in the Blood Pens. Also found within are oil
plant matter in the chamber. At the end of each round of etherealness and a potion of poison disguised as a potion
during which a shambling mound took damage, a dis- of healing. A bundle of entwined branches opens like a
charge of weird energy ripples over the pillars, and coffer to reveal 100 pp and a diamond (1,000 gp).
each creature within 5 feet of a pillar takes 5 (1d10)
lightning damage.
25. Dreaming Garden

A garden courtyard fit for a palace features walls of dark
marble veined with gray, the ceiling above set with brass sup-
ported on black marble pillars. Between the pillars, raised
stone garden beds are filled with flowers and creeping vines in
every color of the rainbow, their sweet scent hanging in the air.
Creatures. The Red Wizard Thuria lives here and

oversees the Blood Pens. Two dread warriors, one
wight, and eight robed zombies guard him, and a black
dragon wyrmling is his personal pet. When the charac-
ters first arrive, the dragon is killing a slave.
37

M asters’ Domain Dungeon State. The nature of this area means the
gargoyles can’t be permanently slain. They are back
This sector is the central sanctum of the Red Wizards when any new group enters the chamber.
in charge of the Doomvault.
27. Temple of Shadow
Temples of Despair A creature near the doors into this area hears a faint
Although the chambers in this zone are referred to as moaning that rises in intensity the closer the creature
“temples,” they are essentially security rooms designed moves to the doors.
to destroy the unwary. All the doors in this area are
locked. Divine Sense and detect good and evil reveal that A wailing howl erupts from the shadows of this dim chamber,
this zone is thoroughly desecrated. echoing from black marble walls. Dark pillars rise to the ceil-
ing, each exuding shadow that twists and unfurls to the air
26. Temple of Light like smoke. Alcoves around the room are set with statues of
Glowing pillars brightly light this massive chamber of white four-armed gargoyles shrouded in darkness.
marble. Each pillar is carved with the likeness of a heroic
figure with its hands held out, as if ready to accept an offer- Light. Dim light radiates from the pillars to fill the
ing. In hideous contrast to the beatific pillars, alcoves around area. Any light source brought into or created in the
the room contain statues of four-armed gargoyles. room radiates only dim light unless it is a spell of 3rd
level or higher, such as a daylight spell.
Advance Warning. Characters who enter this area Wailing. Pervading the chamber is a horrid wailing
feel tranquility despite the gargoyles. If a player expresses that has unnerving effects on living creatures that hear
doubt about the impression, his or her character can it. Such creatures have disadvantage on melee attack
attempt a DC 18 Wisdom (Insight) check, realizing on a
success that the emotion is instilled and illusory.
Body. In front of one alcove, placed so the characters
see it only after entering the room, the red-robed form
of a male human is sprawled. Vorja, a Red Wizard sent
here to face execution, fell to the gargoyles but stabi-
lized after being left for dead. It takes healing magic or
a successful DC 15 Wisdom (Medicine) check to bring
him back to consciousness. He has only 1 hit point
unless healing magic was used. Vorja is in no state to
fight, and his loyalty to Thay is very low.
If assisted, Vorja can reveal one piece of lore along
with information about the Hall of Obedience and the
Hall of Necromancy. He knows nothing about this zone.
If given a glyph key and taken to the black gate, he
escapes the Doomvault and joins Syranna’s forces.
Creatures. When adventurers first enter this area,
the eight four-armed gargoyles are true statues. After
a door other than a secret door is opened in this area,
two of the four-armed gargoyles animate and attack.
Another four-armed gargoyle animates whenever
another such door is opened. This process continues for
as long as any gargoyles remain in the alcoves. The gar-
goyles do not leave the room.
Pillars of Light. Seeming to offer a measure of pro-
tective power, the pillars have evocation magic designed
to prolong the torment of those trapped here. When a
creature touches a pillar, the room pulses with light,
and that creature gains 3 (1d6) temporary hit points.
However, any slain gargoyle disappears when the light
pulses, and an (as yet) unanimated statue reappears on
an empty plinth in the room. This light pulses spontane-
ously once every hour.
38

rolls, Strength checks, and Dexterity checks. A char- Hall of Obedience
MASTERS’ DOMAIN
acter who takes an action to make a DC 14 Wisdom
The Red Wizards use the magic of this place to create
check or Charisma check and succeeds can ignore the
zealous followers.
effect for 10 minutes.
Creatures. Shadows swirling around three pil-
lars coalesce into the same number of wraiths after a 29. Conditioning Court
door other than a secret door is opened in this area. A Doors surround a central courtyard here, creating the sense
shadow appears from another pillar each round there- of a monastic sanctuary. Each of the dimly glowing silver pil-
after, until eight undead have appeared. The wraiths do lars supporting the ceiling has a set of chains and manacles.
not leave the room. Undead hang from four of the pillars, their dead eyes open
Pillars of Shadow. The pillars here are imbued with wide as if in a state of intense focus.
necromancy magic. An undead creature that touches
(or passes through) the pillar gains 3 (1d6) temporary Silver Pillars. Exuding enchantment magic that
hit points. A living creature that touches a pillar takes dulls will and perception, the silver pillars cause any
5 (1d10) necrotic damage and 5 (1d10) cold damage. A creature in the courtyard to have disadvantage on
creature can take this damage only once per turn. Wisdom checks and saving throws. Being chained to
Contact Stone. The eastern false door alcove contains the pillars causes hypnotic dreams that, after prolonged
a circle of glowing glyphs that serves as a contact stone. exposure, improve combat skill and imbue most crea-
tures with strong devotion to the Red Wizards.
28. Temple of Blood Four Thayan warriors chained to the pillars are in
an advanced state of subdual. They can be treated as
The coppery scent of blood hangs heavy in the air in this
unconscious. If they are slain, a gong sounds in the
chamber of dark red marble. Pools of blood spread across the
chamber, alerting the inhabitants of the cells.
floor, oozing from the ceiling above the dimly glowing red pil-
Cells. The cells are quarters for Thayans who train
lars and flowing down the columns. Statues of four-armed
and work here. Unless otherwise noted, each cell contains
gargoyles, each with mouths and claws dripping blood, stand
rough cots and footlockers holding worthless personal
in alcoves around the chamber.
possessions. Cells marked with an asterisk are empty.
Combat in the area, or the pillar gong, alerts those
Light. Dim, blood-red light radiates from the pillars
in the cells. One Red Wizard emerges 1 round later,
to fill the area.
and the other comes out during the following round.
Blood. Due to the slick blood on the floor, a crea-
The residents of the other cells take 1d4 + 1 rounds to
ture that moves across the ground at greater than half
respond (roll for each).
its normal speed must succeed on a DC 10 Dexterity
Each cell is occupied as follows.
saving throw or fall prone.
A) Two Red Wizards dwell in this fine chamber. One
Creatures. The blood dripping from two statues
is sleeping. Both have glyph keys attuned to the zone, as
coalesces into the same number of vampiric mists after
well as keys to the C cells. In combat, the wizards open
a door other than a secret door is opened in this area.
the C cells if they can do so without significant risk.
Another mist appears whenever another such door is
B) Three Thayan warriors sleep here.
opened. This process continues until eight undead have
C) The doors to this cell are locked. The four Thayan
manifested.
warriors brood here when they are not shackled to the
Pillars of Blood. If a living humanoid creature
silver pillars.
touches a pillar, the part of its body that touched the
D) This cell contains bunks but is empty.
pillar becomes stuck, and the creature is restrained. At
the start of each of its turns, the restrained creature is
drained of blood and must succeed on a DC 15 Consti- 30. Training Floor
tution saving throw or take 5 (1d10) necrotic damage An arsenal of weapons and armor hangs from the walls in this
and have its hit point maximum reduced by the same broad chamber, the floor of which is stained with blood and
amount until the creature completes a long rest. A black ichor. Between two weapon racks to the east is a glowing
creature can escape the pillar’s hold with a successful circle of glyphs on the wall about 3 feet from the floor.
DC 15 Strength check. Another creature can pull the
victim free with a similar successful check. Creatures. Lahnis, a Red Wizard, directs the brutal
combat training here. Six Thayan warriors engage
a dread warrior and seven skeletons. Lahnis orders
the whole lot to attack intruders; see the “Roleplaying
Lahnis” sidebar. Because they have been engaged in
combat, each creature besides Lahnis starts at half its
hit point maximum.
39

and precious gems. A dozen stone tables across the floor are
Lahnis carved of gray marble and encrusted with blood and ichor.
In the north is a circle of runes and black onyx fragments set
into the floor, exuding shadowy energy like curling black smoke.
Creatures. Phaia, a Red Wizard, is slowly drawing

the soul from Kelson Darktreader on a stone table far-
thest from the door the characters use to enter. Kelson
is unconscious and stable at 0 hit points, although
Phaia’s magic is drawing a wispy shape that resembles
him from his body, and this shape screams in an echo-
ing voice. Strands of energy flow from the shape into
the table and from there into other forms in the room.
Two deathlock wights on the tables are Red Wizards
in the process of being raised as undead. Three wights
are being raised as warrior undead. These wights
respond only to Phaia when she sees the party and
orders an attack. One of them tries to throw an urn at a
character each round (+4 to hit, range 10 feet/20 feet;
one creature). A hit deals 3 (1d6) bludgeoning damage,
and the target must make saving throws as noted in
the “Urns” section. Phaia stays for a round to assess the
party’s capabilities and then flees to area 32 or uses the
a black gate in the room.
Aura. A detect magic spell reveals a strong necro-
mancy aura on the whole area, denoting the magic
that helps in the creation of undead. Divine Sense and
detect good and evil reveal that this area is thoroughly
desecrated.
Contact Stone. The eastern circle of glowing glyphs

serves as a contact stone. Roleplaying Lahnis
Treasure. Among the weapons here are a +1 Lahnis initially stays back in combat, using minor spells
battleaxe, a +1 greatsword, a +1 shortbow, and an adaman- and trying to assess the adventurers’ motivations. His
tine longsword. A heavily scarred suit of plate armor allegiance to Szass Tam has been flagging. He leans
here is plate mail of vulnerability. toward supporting the Thayan Resurrection, but he has
Lahnis has a ring of protection. He carries a glyph key not formally joined their ranks. He worries that peers
attuned to this zone, the Hall of Necromancy, and the loyal to Szass Tam might suspect him.
Temples of Despair. He also carries a key that opens all Understanding Szass Tam’s cunning, Lahnis first
doors in the Temples of Despair zone, as well as a key to assumes the adventurers are testing his allegiance.
open the C cells in area 29. Around the second round of combat, or if reduced to
Dungeon State. If Lahnis joins the rebels, he provides half his hit points or fewer, Lahnis directly asks the char-
information that lowers the dungeon’s alert level by 1. acters their purpose and admits a willingness to join the
rebels. The characters can sway him with convincing
Hall of Necromancy talk and proof that they have cleared other parts of the
Red Wizards practice and refine their darkest magic dungeon. If the adventurers earn his trust, Lahnis turns
in this zone. against Szass Tam, convinced that the regent’s plots will
be the undoing of Thay.
He then turns on the Thayans here, whom he knows
31. Undying Laboratory won’t stand down, and helps the characters fight. After-
If Phaia and Kelson are here (See “Creatures”), anyone ward, Lahnis provides two pieces of lore and his keys. He
listening at the doors can hear Kelson’s soul screaming. goes to the gatehouse through the black gate in area 29.
The walls of this black marble mausoleum are lined with hun-
dreds of niches, each holding an ivory urn set with gold, silver,
40

MASTERS’ DOMAIN
Phaia
Roleplaying Phaia
Phaia, a faithful servant of Szass Tam, follows the lich
lord’s philosophy that no magic is too dangerous and
no experiment too dark if it promises power. Lawful
evil, Phaia is as opportunistic as she is wicked.
She does anything she can to save herself from
death, including using Szass Tam’s secrets. She can
reveal two pieces of lore and provide copies of her
glyph key. Further, she can teach the adventurers a
ritual using this area’s magic to return soul-bound
undead characters to life. The ritual takes 10 minutes
and requires no other creature’s life energy.
If allowed to do so, Phaia escapes the Doomvault.
Stone Tables. These 3-foot-high carved slabs chan-

nel the energy of life and undeath. They aid in rituals
and spells to create undead.
With the proper knowledge, a creature can use the
stone tables to transform a soul-bound undead back
into a living creature. Doing so requires the aid of a
Red Wizard or explicit written instruction, such as the
scroll in Lahnis’s room in area 32. The ritual takes 20
minutes and requires a spellcaster to make a DC 15
Intelligence (Arcana) check. The spellcaster must also
expend a 3rd level spell slot. On a success, the soul-
bound undead creature returns to life with the same
hit points and resources he or she had in undeath. 32. Wizards’ Court
However, all his or her Hit Dice are expended. If A stepped monument of gray marble shot through with red
the Intelligence (Arcana) check fails, the spell slot is dominates an open courtyard surrounded by closed doors.
expended but the creature remains undead. Blue light shines from the top of the monument. The air
Urns. The urns are magic (necromancy) and worth- around it hums with power, its vibration overwhelming other
less but clever fakes (successful DC 20 Intelligence sensations. Red Wizards and other Thayans kneel on the
[Search] check to discern). Any living creature that lower two tiers, eyes fixed on the monument.
touches an urn must succeed on a DC 17 Constitution or
Wisdom saving throw (creature’s choice) or take 10 (3d6) Stepped Monument. Exuding strong evocation
necrotic damage and become paralyzed until the end of magic, the monument amplifies magic in the courtyard,
its next turn. At the end of each of its turns, the creature but those in the area have trouble with physical sensations
must repeat the saving throw. If this damage reduces a and tasks, and they have disadvantage on Strength and
creature to 0 hit points, the creature turns to dust. Dexterity checks and saving throws. Meditating on the
Kelson. Despite his ordeal, Kelson Darktreader can monument causes hypnotic dreams that, after prolonged
be restored to health through normal means. He thanks exposure, improve spellcasting capabilities and imbue
the characters for saving him and offers two pieces of most creatures with strong devotion to the Red Wizards.
lore. He asks for a glyph key and goes to the gatehouse Each tier of the monument is 5 feet high, and clam-
to recuperate and join Hadarr. Before he does so, he bering onto it requires 5 extra feet of movement.
can help the party for the rest of the session if they Creatures. Six Thayan apprentices kneel on the
(and you) wish. lower tier of the monument. Two Red Wizards kneel on
Treasure. Phaia carries a +1 dagger, a scroll of the middle tier. The Thayans attack intruders.
darkvision, and a potion of water breathing. She also has Cells. The cells are quarters for Thayans who train
a glyph key attuned to this zone and the Temples of and work here. Unless otherwise noted, each cell contains
Oppression zone (in the Temples of Extraction sector). rough cots and footlockers holding worthless personal
possessions. Cells marked with an asterisk are empty.
41

Combat in the area alerts the inhabitants of the cells. Stone Wall. A rough stone wall separates the lower
They take 1d4 + 1 rounds to respond (roll for each). cavern of area 34 from the higher finished chamber of
A) Lahnis (see area 30) uses these quarters, which area 35. The wall is 15 feet high.
contain a fine bed, a footlocker, and a desk. Search-
ing the area uncovers one written piece of lore, as well 35. Dread Legion Barracks
as a tome of the stilled tongue and spell scrolls of detect The light in this room can be seen from area 34. Unless
magic (2), comprehend languages (2), and remove curse (3). the creatures here have a reason to be quiet, they are
Lahnis also has a scroll describing the ritual used to talking loudly.
turn soul-bound undead back into living creatures in
area 31. Three bonfires light this vast chamber, their smoke rising to
B) Two Red Wizards sleep here. vent through cracks in the ceiling. Scattered bedding and the
C) Three Thayan apprentices sleep here. stench of unwashed humanoids suggest that many creatures
D) This library has a wealth of information. An hour might dwell here.
spent here turns up two pieces of lore. In the east, between two outsized bedrolls, is a glowing
Contact Stone. Atop the monument is a circle of circle of glyphs on the wall about 3 feet from the floor.
glowing glyphs that serves as a contact stone.
Glyph Keys. Each Red Wizard has a glyph key Bonfires. The bonfires brightly light this area. A
attuned to this zone. creature that enters or starts its turn in a bonfire takes
3 (1d6) fire damage. A creature can take this damage
Dread Legion Outpost only once per turn.
The Dread Legions, Thay’s army, maintains a full Creatures. A Dread Legion squad made up of five
company in the Doomvault. orcs and five gnolls, and a Thayan warrior rests here.
Two trolls are on permanent post here to keep the other
33. Cavern Guard Post legionnaires in line.
Stone Wall. See area 34.
Glowing crystals set into the walls and floors light a rough
Dungeon State. The Dread Legion squad are on
stone cavern. In the south is a circle of runes and black onyx
patrol throughout the Doomvault. If a squad resting in
the barracks is slain, an identical squad arrives here
curling black smoke.
within 1 hour.
Contact Stone. The circle of glowing glyphs
Blue Crystals. The blue crystals brightly light the area.
between the troll beds serves as a contact stone.
Creatures. One Thayan warrior, five gnolls, and five
Glyph Keys. The Thayan warrior has a glyph key
orcs attack intruders on sight.
attuned to every sector except the Temples of Extrac-
Glyph Key. The Thayan warrior has a glyph key
tion. The other Thayan warrior and each troll has a
attuned to this zone.
glyph key attuned to this sector.
34. Shard Cavern
This cavern has no light. Far R ealm Cysts
The influence of the Far Realm has warped the cham-
The walls and ceiling of this rough cavern are a mass of rock
bers here, turning perfect star shapes into weird mixes
spines, the floor covered with rock dust and shards. A path
of worked stone and glistening cavern. Unless other-
has been worn through the rubble, winding between double
wise noted, these caverns are dark.
doors to the west and a rough flight of stairs rising to the
larger and lit open space to the east.
Lake of Madness
Path. Except on the path, the ground in the room is A pack of aboleths dwells in a watery crevasse, seething
difficult terrain. at their imprisonment and hungry to enslave the living.
Shard Storm Trap. Strong transmutation magic
infuses the room. Any creature that spends more than 36. Dark Water
1 round in this area triggers the trap. When the trap Water can be heard rippling in this dark area before
triggers, creatures in the room take 14 (4d6) piercing the characters arrive.
damage (successful DC 15 Dexterity saving throw to
take only half damage). The path becomes difficult ter- The walls of this cavern cast reflections in the same dark
rain, and if the creatures in areas 33 and 35 can hear shades of blue as the pool of water that fills the center of this
the trap go off, the guards have warning that intruders area. Ripples spread across the surface as if the water has
are in the area. been recently disturbed. Around the cavern, narrow alcoves
hold enormous globes of blue liquid suspended in the air.
42

Creatures. One aboleth dwells deep in the pool,
FA R R EA L M C Y S T S
using telepathy to observe the area. Within this room,
the aboleth can use the water globes (see that section) to
move around.
The aboleth’s ordeal in the Doomvault has weakened
it, making it a reduced threat. In addition, its hatred
of the Red Wizards makes the aboleth a potential
ally. With a successful DC 20 Charisma (Persuasion)
check, or another successful and appropriate check, a
character can convince the aboleth to stand down and
negotiate. In exchange for sparing the characters, the
aboleth demands to be freed and given a glyph key.
Pool. Over 350 feet deep, this pool has sheer sides
that drop to its bottom. Creatures that are within 10
feet of the surface are lightly obscured. Those in deeper
water are heavily obscured.
Water Globes. Floating 5 feet above the floor, these
magic water globes (transmutation) are 15 feet in diam-
eter. Red Wizards use them to hold aquatic creatures
for transport through the black gates.
As an action, a creature that is within 5 feet of a
globe and has an Intelligence score of 10 or higher can
take control of the globe by succeeding on a DC 10
Intelligence check. As part of its movement and with
a successful DC 10 Intelligence check, the controller
can direct the globe to move with it, remaining within
5 feet of the controller. A globe’s controller can enter
and leave the globe at will. The controller can maintain
control of the globe while within 100 feet of it. Another
creature that qualifies as a controller can wrest control
of a globe by winning a contest of Intelligence against
the current controller.
A creature that touches a globe without being its con-
troller must succeed on a DC 15 Strength saving throw or
be drawn into the globe and unable to pass back through
its boundary. As an action, a trapped creature can free Compelling Light Trap. Any creature that sees
itself with a successful DC 20 Intelligence check. Also the magical light (illusion) while within this area must
as an action, a globe’s controller can release a trapped succeed on a DC 13 Wisdom saving throw or enter the
creature with a successful DC 10 Intelligence check. cavern and stand there while ignoring all other stimuli.
A creature inside a globe has half cover against effects When an affected creature takes damage, the creature
that originate outside the globe. While inside a globe, a can repeat the saving throw to end the effect. Any living
trapped creature can’t contest for control of the globe. creature that ends its turn in the lighted room takes
Dungeon State. If the adventurers free the aboleth, 10 (3d6) necrotic damage.
tell the event coordinator to add it to the special A dispel magic spell suppresses the effect for 10 min-
encounters. The aboleth attacks anyone it runs across. utes. Any spell that overwhelms or blocks the light also
suppresses it in the spell’s area for the spell’s duration.
37. Compelling Light Glyph Key. The dread warrior has a glyph key
Dim light in the chamber can be seen before the attuned to the Forest of Death zone.
room can.
Faint light pervades the air, shimmering through all the colors
Warren of Eyes
of the rainbow, dimly lighting the walls of this cavern. A few Thaxalia, a beholder, has been summoned and impris-
piles of bones and scraps of old gear litter the floor. oned here. This area has a weird green glow that
provides dim light.
Creatures. The trap here (see below) has affected
six wights and a dread warrior. They attack
if the trap’s effect on them ends.
43

38. Sinkhole Cavern fewer, it withdraws to area 40, leaving its spawn to deal
This rough cavern has an uneven floor with open holes in it. with the threat.
In the east, on a spar of rock, is a glowing circle of glyphs on
the wall about 3 feet from the floor. Beholder Spawn. Clinging to the cavern walls by
the hundreds, between this world and the Far Realm,
If the characters come from the north, add the are the manifestations of beholder spawn. These spawn
following. are not independent creatures, but they can project
weak eye rays that function as an area hazard. At the
Southwest of the doors is an alcove with a circle of runes and start of each of its turns, any creature in the cavern
black onyx fragments set into its floor, exuding shadowy must succeed on a DC 12 Wisdom saving throw or
energy like curling black smoke. suffer one of the following effects, rolled randomly.
2d4 Eye Ray

Creatures. Eight zombies and two ogre zombies
2–3 Charm. For its turn, the target moves toward its
attack any intruders. Any combat warns Thaxalia (area
nearest ally and attacks with a weapon or cantrip.
39) of the approach of intruders.
The target can’t check for pits as it moves.
Sinkholes. These open sinkholes are 5 feet across
4–5 Telekinesis. The target is pushed 5 feet in a
and 10 feet deep. A creature that falls into a sinkhole is
random direction and falls prone.
restrained in the narrow bottom. It takes a successful
6–7 Slow. Until the start of its next turn, the target’s
DC 13 Strength check or Dexterity check to work free,
speed is reduced by 15 feet, and others make
and a Small creature has advantage on this check. It’s
attack rolls against the target with advantage.
then an easy matter to climb out of the sinkhole.
8 Sleep. The target falls unconscious until the
Contact Stone. The circle of glowing glyphs serves
start of its next turn.
as a contact stone.
Slime. Covering the rough floor is 1 foot of thick
39. Beholder’s Domain slime, which is difficult terrain and covers several hidden
Hundreds of unblinking eyes stare into this room from long sinkholes. Any creature that starts its turn prone in or
walls of glistening green stone. The floor of this chamber is submerged in the slime takes 4 (1d8) poison damage.
covered with viscous slime that drips from four stalagmites. Sinkholes. These open sinkholes are 5 feet across
and 10 feet deep, and they are filled with slime. While
Beholder. Thaxalia, a beholder crippled by Thayan moving near a sinkhole, a character who succeeds on a
magic, floats near the ceiling, trying to remain unno- DC 20 Wisdom (Perception) check notices the hazard
ticed while intruders enter. Thaxalia’s central eye and due to the flow of slime in and around it. A creature
two of its eyestalks (death ray and disintegration) have that falls into a sinkhole is restrained in the narrow
been maimed by the Red Wizards, rendering them bottom and submerged in slime, unable to breathe. It
powerless. If it has warning or drops to 50 hit points or takes a successful DC 15 Strength check or Dexterity
check to work free, and a Small creature has advantage
on this check. It then takes a successful DC 10 Strength
check to climb out of the sinkhole.
Roleplaying Thaxalia Stalagmites. These 10-foot-diameter spires of rock
After only 2 rounds, Thaxalia’s hatred for the Red Wiz- rise 20 feet above the floor and exude the otherworldly
ards inspires the beholder to question the characters’ slime. Their sides are slick and smooth, very difficult
purpose in the dungeon. If they reveal their goals, the to climb.
beholder suggests an alliance, extolling its plans for Dungeon State. If freed and given a glyph key,
revenge. Thaxalia allows the characters free passage through
Fearing Thaxalia’s ability to wreak havoc if it escapes this area. Tell the event coordinator to add the beholder
this zone, the Red Wizards cursed the beholder with to the special encounters. Thaxalia prefers to attack
the inability to use a glyph key. Thaxalia doesn’t know those who seem to be Thayans. If encountered again
the solution, but a remove curse spell can eliminate the later, the beholder might help if incentivized.
prohibition. The beholder then takes a glyph key from The beholder spawn in this area remain hazardous
the wight in area 40, asking the characters to provide to all except characters who freed Thaxalia. If Thaxalia
it with more attunements. If refused, it becomes hostile is destroyed, the beholder spawn here disappear.
and uses its powers to compel the characters to give it
more glyph key attunements. 40. Slime Slaves
Viscous slime fills this chamber. Rough stone steps lead
up and out.
44

If Thaxalia left area 39, the beholder is here. It has been The otyughs use their telepathy to demand food like
FA R R EA L M C Y S T S
picking off Thayan patrols here. Amid the slime are five peevish children. If the characters offer to feed them,
bodies, two wights and three Thayan warriors. the otyughs stop fighting to see if the party is telling
Slime. Covering the rough floor is 1 foot of thick the truth (unless the party has slain one of the young).
slime. Any creature that starts its turn prone in the If the characters have killed one of the young, it takes
slime takes 4 (1d8) poison damage. a successful DC 20 Charisma (Intimidation or Persua-
Glyph Key. One Thayan Warrior has a glyph key sion) check to get the otyughs to stand down.
attuned to this zone. Stench. At the start of each of its turns in this area,
any living creature that is not an otyugh must succeed
Prison of Filth on a DC 12 Constitution saving throw or be overpow-
ered by the stench and have disadvantage on attack
A pack of otyughs has been imprisoned here to repro-
rolls and saving throws. A successful save renders the
duce in the filth.
creature immune to this effect until it has been away
from this area for 5 minutes.
Light. None.
Trash. The waste material in the area is difficult terrain.
Necrotic Essence. If viewed with detect magic, the area
Stalagmites. These 10-foot-diameter spires of rock
also has an aura of necromancy. When living creatures
rise 20 feet above the floor.
regain hit points, they regain only half as many as normal.
Dungeon State. If the otyughs are freed and given
a glyph key, they go to rampaging through the dun-
41. Garbage Transfer geon, devouring anything in their path including Red
This rough-walled cavern contains nothing that should make Wizards. Tell the event coordinator to add them to the
it stink of filth and rot as it does. special encounters.
Shadows curl like smoke from the walls. To the northeast,
similar shadows whorl from a circle of runes and black onyx 43. Summoning Chamber
fragments set into the floor. East of it is a glowing circle of
A blood-red circle is scribed on the floor of this cavern, the
glyphs on the wall about 3 feet from the floor.
twisted runes around its edge pulsing with sickly purple light.
Creatures. Twenty unarmed skeletons stand here,
A successful DC 15 Intelligence (Arcana) check
waiting to cart refuse that arrives from other areas
allows a character to recognize the runes as symbols of
through the black gate. They attack only if attacked.
dangerous magic that can be manipulated to call forth
If a character drops any moderate-sized object
creatures of the Far Realm. The adventurer knows that
in front of the skeletons, as many of them as needed
using the circle is impossible without the proper ritu-
quickly seize the object and carry it into area 42.
als, and that it can be disabled with a successful DC 20
The otyughs are distracted while the skeletons move
Intelligence (Arcana) check to deface key runes. Defac-
through area 42.
ing the runes requires weapons or tools, such as thieves’
Doors. Abjuration magic on these locked doors causes
tools. However, the character is also aware that the pro-
them to open if an animate skeleton touches them.
cess could unleash weird forces.
Contact Stone. The circle of glowing glyphs serves
Each time a character tries to disable the circle but
as a contact stone.
fails, it unleashes a pulse of magical power that forces
Dungeon State. Unless destroyed with radiant
each creature in the area to succeed on a DC 15 Intel-
damage, the skeletons here reassemble within 1 minute
ligence saving throw or suffer a severe break with
of being destroyed. Restored skeletons have no memory
reality. The creature then has disadvantage on all Intel-
of their previous fate, so they attack only if attacked or if
ligence checks, Wisdom checks, and Charisma checks.
they witness other skeletons under attack.
In addition, the creature has disadvantage when roll-
ing initiative and can’t maintain concentration. Remove
42. Otyugh Lair curse, greater restoration, or equivalent magic restores the
Pools and piles of rotting garbage, offal, and filth cover the creature to normal.
rough stone floor of this cavern. The air is heavy with an
unbearable stench. Four stalagmites thrust up from the floor.
Caverns of Chaos
Creatures. Three otyughs and four otyugh young The creatures and power of the Far Realm are held in
hide in the trash here. Unless the dungeon state indi- these unlit caverns.
cates that the otyugh from area 20 is here, the otyughs
attack right away.
45

44. Chaos Lair • The owner can communicate telepathically with
Twisting ledges divide this chamber into multiple sections, the creature’s whose soul was consumed (see below).
creating a series of increasingly deep tiers. Stalagmites dot When a magic item is transformed, randomly select
the floor. one character within 50 feet of the altar. That person’s
soul is drawn into the item, and he or she drops into a
Advance Warning. Those entering this area can deathlike coma (DC 15 Wisdom [Medicine] check to
hear the babble of the gibbering mouthers. A successful determine whether the character is still alive). An
DC 10 Intelligence check confirms that the speech is identify spell can be used to discern the whereabouts
gibberish in various languages. of the soul and how to cure the condition, temporarily
Ceiling. Although the cavern floor drops down as or permanently.
shown on the map, the ceiling stays level. Placing the object in the character’s hand temporarily
Creatures. Four gricks climb and wander the first ends the coma. Thereafter, the character must hold the
two ledges, while two gibbering mouthers lurk on the object in hand or fall into a coma again. If the adventurer
third. One grell starts out flying above area 45. Six breaks contact with the object for 1 hour, or if the object
prisoners hide among the ledges, trying to avoid the is destroyed, the character dies. Remove curse, greater res-
aberrant monsters. toration, or equivalent magic breaks the bond, returning
Aberrant Magic Field. Weird transmutation magic the soul permanently to the afflicted character.
radiates from the entire cavern. Whenever a character Contact Stone. The circle of glowing glyphs serves
fails an attack roll, a saving throw, or a check in this as a contact stone.
area, all the character’s ongoing spells and magic items
are suppressed until the end of the character’s next
turn. During this time, spells provide no effect and Forests of Slaughter
items don’t impart their properties or powers. These caverns house a Thayan menagerie.
Ledges. Each rough ledge is 10 feet high and easy Light. The cavern ceilings glow with magical light
to scale. A character can climb a ledge at full speed by that varies in 12-hour cycles to simulate day and night.
succeeding on a DC 15 Strength (Athletics) check or When the characters arrive, it is the start of the night
Dexterity (Acrobatics) check. cycle, and all areas in this sector are in dim light.
Stalagmites. These 10-foot-diameter spires of rock Magic Trees. Isolated stands of gnarled and vine-
rise 20 feet above the floor. choked trees rise 15 to 20 feet high in the caverns.
The trees are magic, targeting any intruders—creatures
45. Eldritch Altar that are not normally housed in the area. An area of
A slab of jet-black stone sits at the center of this cavern alcove. trees is difficult terrain.
Its sides show relief carvings of familiar humanoid faces— Magic Turf. The rocky cavern floors in this sector
your own. are covered in a layer of magic turf that uses transmuta-
On the curving wall east of the altar is a glowing circle of tion magic to slowly absorb the waste of the creatures
glyphs about 3 feet from the floor. that dwell here.
Pools. Each of the rocky pools in these caverns is
Altar. This ancient altar to chaos is imbued with 1 foot deep and magically filled with cool, clean water.
transmutation magic that reshapes its sides to show the A pool is difficult terrain.
faces of the most recent sentient humanoids to enter
area 44. Forest of Illusion
The top of the altar slab shows the shadowy outlines Powerful illusion magic suffuses trees in this zone.
of a dozen weapons, pendants, and other objects. An When an intruder enters or ends its turn in an area of
identify spell reveals that the altar imparts additional trees, the creature must succeed on a DC 15 Wisdom
power into magic items placed on its surface. The caster saving throw or, for 1 minute, become unable to see
must succeed on a DC 20 Intelligence (Arcana) check creatures hostile to it. The creature repeats the saving
to further discern that when an item is empowered, the throw at the end of each of its turns, ending the effect
altar also draws in the life force of creatures near it. early on a success.
When any magic item is placed on the altar for 1
minute, it takes on the following magic item details: 46. Hook Horror Nest
• The item glows with a faint purple light (though it is The turf here is full of deep, enormous gouges.
not bright enough to provide any illumination).
• The item periodically and randomly alters its Advance Warning. A character who can track can
appearance in slight ways. The bearer has no control identify the gouges and tracks in the area as belong-
over these minor transformations, which do not affect ing to Large bipedal predators that use outsized clawed
the item’s use or magical properties. forelimbs to move like a gorilla might. A character who
46

succeeds on a DC 15 Intelligence (Nature) check recog- Forest of Recovery
FORESTS OF SLAUGHTER
nizes the traits of hook horrors.
Powerful conjuration magic suffuses the trees in this
Creatures. Four hook horrors hang from the walls here.
zone. When an intruder enters or ends its turn in an area
They have grown lazy and distracted by their imprison-
of trees, the creature must succeed on a DC 15 Wisdom
ment, so characters have advantage on Dexterity (Stealth)
saving throw or, for 1 minute, any damage it deals instead
checks made against the horrors until any character is
causes the target to gain 5 (1d10) temporary hit points.
spotted. The horrors hesitate to attack those dressed like
The creature repeats the saving throw at the end of each of
Thayans but do so if no food is quickly offered.
its turns, ending the effect early on a success.
The horrors fight mostly to defend a mound in the
northwest section of the cavern, which contains their
eggs. A character who can speak Undercommon and 49. Gate Cavern
deal with the hook horrors’ unsophisticated intel- Trees crowd the walls of this turfed cavern. To the southwest
lect can get them to stand down by guaranteeing the the turf gives way to a stone floor, where shadows curl like
eggs’ safety and making a successful DC 20 Charisma smoke from a circle of runes and black onyx fragments. West
(Deception, Intimidation, or Persuasion) check. If the of the circle is a glowing circle of glyphs on the wall about 3
check fails, the horrors try to kill and eat the interlop- feet from the floor.
ers, but the negotiations can be renewed if two or more
horrors are slain. Creatures. A helmed horror and a wight guard this
Contact Stone. A circle of glowing glyphs just north area. The wight has orders to confront anyone who
of the black gate serves as a contact stone. enters without pig carcasses to feed to the zone’s mon-
Dungeon State. The hook horrors recognize a truce sters. If such interlopers can’t provide credible reasons
for only about 10 minutes. At that point, intruders have for their presence, the wight orders the helmed horror
to renegotiate. to attack.
Glyph Key. The wight has a glyph key attuned to
47. Cockatrice Roost this zone.
This treeless section of the cavern is set with natural ledges
and indentations 10 feet from the floor.
Creatures. Eight cocka-

trices roost on the ledges.
They make no attempts to
hide, and they attack as soon
as they realize the adventur-
ers have no food for them.
Ledges. Rough handholds
make it easy to climb the
walls in this area. A search
of the ledges reveals sixteen
cockatrice eggs.
48. Gorgon Lair

At the edge of the pool stands a
lifelike statue of a hook horror.
Two adult gorgons attack

intruders on sight, pursu-
ing those who flee into area
46. Any hook horrors there
attack only if the adventurers
slay or drive off the gorgons.
47

50. Barghest Range Creatures. Four adult and four young perytons here
The grassy turf grows high in this large cavern. have grown tired of their pork diet. If the characters
don’t appear to be Thayans, or if they fail to offer food
Creatures. Two adult barghests and six barghest within a few moments, the perytons attack. They prefer
young lurk in the tall grass. A character who succeeds living targets.
on a DC 20 Wisdom (Perception) check spots one or Ledges. Rough handholds make it easy to climb the
more of them. These creatures hesitate to attack only if walls in this area. A search of the ledges reveals five
the characters seem to be Thayans. peryton eggs.
The barghests desire to take revenge on the Red
Wizards and then escape the Doomvault. If the char- 54. Troll Cavern
acters offer to free them and succeed on a DC 20 Broken and gnawed bones are strewn across the turf in this
Charisma check (any appropriate Charisma skill can forested cavern.
apply), the fiends stand down. They want any glyph
keys the characters have. If defied, the barghests are Creatures. Three adult trolls live in this area, two
likely to renew their attacks. males that fight constantly and one immense, domi-
Dungeon State. If the barghests are freed and given nant female that lazes near the black gate. They wait
a glyph key, they stalk the dungeon for any prey they to be fed or given prisoners to play with, which allows
can find. Tell the event coordinator to add them to the the adventurers a few moments to decide on a course of
special encounters. action. If the party lingers, it’s likely to dawn on the trolls
that the characters are fair game.
51. Pool of Recovery Contact Stone. A circle of glowing glyphs just west
A pool in this cavern glows with pale blue light. of the black gate serves as a contact stone.
Glyph Key. The female troll has a glyph key attuned
The pool’s evocation magic grants living creatures that to this zone, with which she and her allies can pursue
drink from it the benefits of completing a short rest. A fleeing characters.
living creature can drink from the pool safely only once
per tenday. It is never safe for an undead creature to 55. Pool of Consumption
drink from the pool. Each time a creature drinks while A pool in this cavern glows with pale gray light.
undead, it gains no benefits and takes 21 (4d10) radiant
damage as its body overloads with positive energy. The pool’s necromancy magic grants undead crea-
tures that drink from it the benefits of completing a
52. Displacer Beast Dens short rest. An undead creature can drink from the pool
Bones are piled against the western walls of this cavern, safely only once per tenday. It is never safe for a living
forming low mounds. creature to drink from the pool. Each time a living crea-
ture drinks, it gains no benefits and takes 21 (4d10)
Creatures. Two adult and three young displacer necrotic damage as its body overloads with
beasts dwell here. Each sits atop a different bone negative energy.
mound, and they all attack when it becomes clear that
the adventurers have not brought food. 56. Behir’s Lair
Bone Piles. These 1-foot-high piles of bones are dif- The trees in this forested cavern are scorched and gouged. The
ficult terrain. turf is burned and overturned, revealing the stone floor in places.
Forest of Death Two behirs spend their days sleeping, eating, and
attacking each other out of boredom and spite. The
Powerful necromancy magic suffuses the trees in this creatures are asleep or otherwise preoccupied when
zone. When an intruder enters or ends its turn in an the characters come here.
area of trees, the creature must succeed on a DC 15
Constitution saving throw or, for 10 minutes, it can’t
regain hit points. Forest of Weakness
Powerful transmutation magic suffuses trees in this
53. Peryton Roost zone. When an intruder enters or ends its turn in an area
Broad ledges run along the walls of this long cavern, 20 feet of trees, the creature must succeed on a DC 15 Strength
above the floor. saving throw or become paralyzed for 1 minute. The
creature repeats the saving throw at the end of each of its
turns, ending the effect early on a success.
48

57. Leucrotta Lair Ooze Grottos
O O Z E G R OT TO S
This area resembles a tranquil meadow dotted with a few trees. The Red Wizards use the magic of this sector to breed
and control oozes.
Tracks. The ground seems to be covered with the Ooze Prod. An ooze prod is a quarterstaff that deals
tracks of large deer or elk, but a successful DC 25 Intel- 1d4 force damage instead of its normal damage. The
ligence (Nature) check reveals that these tracks are prod does not suffer damaging effects from oozes (such
those of leucrottas. as from the gray ooze’s dissolve trait). In addition, an
Creatures. Four leucrottas lurk here among the ooze hit by the prod can’t willingly move to a posi-
trees, along with one young leucrotta. They make calls tion where it would end a turn closer to the wielder of
like pained humans, which their handlers normally the prod than where it started. If the prod is used as a
ignore. The creatures gleefully attack anyone they trick. weapon, it breaks the first time a natural 1 is rolled on
an attack roll with it.
58. Pool of Renewal Interactions. Most living Thayans assigned to this
A pool in this cavern glows with pale yellow light. East of the sector hate being here. Thayans who surrender here
pool, the turf gives way to a stone floor, where shadows curl hate the sector so much that they are more inclined to
like smoke from a circle of runes and black onyx fragments. give truthful information about it.
East of the circle is a glowing circle of glyphs on the wall about
3 feet from the floor.
Augmentation Chambers
Pool. The pool’s abjuration magic grants creatures The magic of these chambers allows Thayans to bestow
that drink from it the benefits of a greater restoration or glimmers of intelligence into living oozes, making them
a lesser restoration spell (creature’s choice). A creature obedient and more capable combatants.
can drink from the pool safely only once per week.
The second time the creature drinks in a tenday, its hit 61. Bone Room
point maximum is halved for one tenday (remove curse Cracked and decaying bones are piled throughout this chamber.
removes this effect). The third time the creature drinks In the northwest corner is a circle of runes and black onyx
in a tenday, it suffers the effects of a destruction spell. fragments set into the floor, exuding shadowy energy like
Contact Stone. The circle of glowing glyphs is a curling black smoke.
contact stone.
Creatures. Three sentient ochre jellies (see the “Sen-
59. Choker Grotto tient Oozes” sidebar) and a wight guard this area. The
This big side chamber has a few small copses of trees and wight confronts anyone who enters but stands down if
a few piles of bones. the characters look Thayan and give a credible reason
for being here. Otherwise, the undead attack.
Bones. The gnawed bones of six humans are here. Each Bone Piles. Here lie fragments of bone left from
has crushed neck vertebrae, which someone who succeeds bodies destroyed in attempts to infuse oozes with human-
on a DC 15 Wisdom (Medicine) check can discern. oid intelligence. The piles are 3 feet high. It costs 15 feet of
Creatures. Six chokers live here, two lurking in movement to move 5 feet in a pile. A creature that enters
each of the two treed areas near the pool and two on or starts its turn in a pile takes 4 (1d8) acid damage. A
the walls near the pool. They wait and watch, attacking creature can take this damage only once per turn.
when the characters move within reach, which their
handlers rarely do. The chokers in the trees try to pull
victims into the treed areas.
Sentient Oozes
60. Owlbear Grove One of the many experiments in the Doomvault is to
The trees grow closer together in this cavern, giving it the look infuse oozes with intelligence. The Red Wizards have
of a silent forest. A monstrous owlbear crouches low at a pool met with somne success, though the process requires
of still water, its razor-sharp beak and bright eyes on display the sacrifice of many subjects. These sentient oozes
as its gaze tracks you. are the same as regular versions of the monster except
that they have Intelligence 5, can understand very basic
Two adult owlbears and three young lurk among the Common, and are no longer immune to charm.
trees here. They wait long enough to see if food is being
handed out, and they attack if none seems forthcoming.
The young are hidden, and they join the fight from the
flanks after their parents attack.
49

62. Ooze Temple
This chamber has stone benches,
columns, and a raised altar, all sug-
gesting it might have once been
a temple or forum. Skeletons are
arrayed across the benches.
Creatures. Three deathlock

wights with buckets and stone
boots move among dozens of
skeletons. They pour steaming
ooze over the bones. Two sentient
ochre jellies and two sentient
gray oozes are pooled near the
benches.
Spilled Ooze. The spilled ooze
essence makes the area around
the benches difficult terrain. Any
creature that ends its turn in the
area of the spilled ooze takes 4
(1d8) acid damage. Due to their
boots, the wights are immune.
Raised Altar. This raised
altar is 10 feet above the floor. It
has sides of smooth stone.
63. Spawn Vats

The sound of flowing and bub-
bling liquid is audible from the
northern hallway leading to this
A creature that enters or starts its turn touching the
chamber.
necrotic essence takes 5 (2d4) necrotic damage and
must succeed on a DC 11 Constitution saving throw or
This enormous chamber of gray stone is filled with square
be paralyzed until the start of its next turn. A creature
vats made of the same material. At the center of the chamber,
can take this damage and needs to make the saving
a great fountain spews black liquid that lands in a wide stone
throw only once per round.
pool. Trenches cut into the floor run from the fountain bowl to
Six square vats each contain one ooze. Usually,
the vats. The eastern wall of the chamber is partly covered by
wights use ooze prods to keep the oozes in the vats. If
a long black curtain.
the wights are engaged in combat, roll 1d6 at the end
Creatures. Four deathlock wights move among the
vats using ooze prods to poke the mixtures. They chal-
lenge any intruders. If the wights become distracted,
oozes may attack (see “Vat System” below). Roleplaying Sarkalla
Sarkalla, a Red Wizard (transmuter), is working Quite mad, Sarkalla cares only for her experiments and
behind the black curtain, but she peeks out in response her “precious children”—the oozes that she’s working to
to the wights’ challenge. She uses a message cantrip to imbue with intelligence in order to create the “perfect
order the lead wight to attack. A character who suc- assassins.” If she and her wights have the upper hand in
ceeds on a DC 20 Wisdom (Perception) check notices combat, or if all the wights are destroyed, she calls for
Sarkalla while she does so. a break in hostilities. She proudly talks of the sentient
Vat System. A 10-foot-high round magic fountain oozes that will wreak havoc for Thay. She promises the
(necromancy and transmutation) forms the center of adventurers positions as assistants and bodyguards
a vat system. Around it are 3-foot-high square vats. to “the Ooze Master” (see area 65). If the characters
Trenches, 2 feet wide and 1 foot deep, connect the foun- accept, they are allowed to leave and go to area 64.
tain to the vats. The whole system contains necrotic Sarkalla otherwise attacks again and fights until killed.
essence that prepares oozes for binding to undead.
50

of every round. If an ooze of the given type is still in Black Pillar. The black pillar is infused with psionic
O O Z E G R OT TO S
a vat, it escapes and tries to attack the nearest crea- energy. Any creature that touches it takes 9 (2d8) psy-
tures. However, each ooze has only half its hit points chic damage and is knocked prone. A creature can take
remaining. this damage only once per turn.
1d6 Ooze 65. Red Master

1–2 Black pudding (B) An enormous pillar of thick, red liquid stretches from floor to
3 Gelatinous cube (G) ceiling in this cavern. Embedded within the pillar is a whis-
4–6 Ochre jelly (O) pering, crimson-robed humanoid form.
In the northeast is a circle of runes and black onyx frag-
Black Curtain. Beyond a heavy black curtain, ments set into the floor, exuding shadowy energy like curling
Sarkalla has her quarters, which contain a bed, a table black smoke. East of the circle is a glowing circle of glyphs on
strewn with writing implements and books, and shelves the wall about 3 feet from the floor.
piled with bound volumes and scrolls.
Contact Stone. The circle of glowing glyphs above Creature. A Red Wizard known only as the Ooze
Sarkalla’s southern table is a contact stone. Master is melded with the pillar of red ooze. He uses
Treasure. Sarkalla’s table and shelves contain two his powers to make sure the red pillar consumes those
pieces of lore, spell scrolls of dispel magic (2) and greater who come here.
restoration (2), a potion of healing, a potion of heroism, and Red Pillar. The red pillar flows like viscous fluid.
six valuable tomes on underground exploration and When a creature moves within 10 feet of the pillar, the
natural history (120 gp each). creature feels its body soften. On each turn the crea-
Sarkalla has a glyph key attuned to this zone, the ture starts within 10 feet of the pillar, the creature must
Immortal Caverns, the Spawning Pools, and the Temples succeed on a DC 15 Charisma saving throw or take 7
of Nature zone (in the Temples of Extraction sector). (2d6) acid damage. A creature that drops to 0 hit points
due to this effect dies and collapses into a puddle of
Immortal Caverns gooey liquid. The fluid then flows into the pillar.
Horrifying by-products of the Red Wizards’ dark ooze Contact Stone. The circle of glowing glyphs is a
experiments are found here. contact stone.
Dungeon State. The Ooze Master is a sort of lich.
64. White Maw If destroyed, his shape reappears in the red pillar
almost immediately but doesn’t regain consciousness.
This area is unlit.
His unconscious form whispers as if dreaming, and
the Ooze Master dies only if the Phylactery Vault is
The cavern walls here are dry white stone, as is the clean
disabled at the end of the adventure.
floor. Toward the center, a massive cracked black pillar rises
to the dark ceiling.
Creature. White Maw is a gray ooze so massive it

covers the entire floor and much of the walls. Unlike Roleplaying
the other sentient oozes, this one is quite intelligent the Ooze Master
(Intelligence 12) and has the ability to communicate The Ooze Master is the result of a failed experiment
telepathically to creatures within 50 feet of it. to blend a Red Wizard with ooze. When the charac-
As soon as the last character enters, solid white ters arrive, the Ooze Master assumes they are Thayan
“stone” closes over each exit as White Maw seals the apprentices come to join him “in immortality.” He
adventurers within itself. The ooze is insane, and has greets them and honors their “great sacrifice.” The Ooze
multiple personalities of the creatures sacrificed to Master knows if White Maw has been killed (though
imbue it with sentience. Although it might communi- not who did it), and vows to use the characters’ power,
cate briefly with the characters, eventually madness once it is consumed, to seek out and punish those
takes hold and it attacks, slamming the characters with responsible. He also speaks of “the great transforma-
tentacles that manifest from the floor or walls. The tion,” when all Red Wizards will be joined with oozes.
adventurers attack it by targeting the floor or walls of If a character is consumed by the liquid pillar, the
the cavern. Ooze Master gains that character’s knowledge and
When White Maw drops to 0 hit points, cracks shoot memories. He uses that awareness against the rest of
through the smooth white stone, which collapses to the party.
white dust, exposing the exits and dropping the charac-
ters 1 foot to the actual floor of dark stone.
51

66. Black Elder mirror to attack. Once the mirrors have collectively
In the brilliant light shed by the white pillar at the center of called forth five howling wraiths, they become dormant
this cavern, a pool of mottled black liquid gleams. Ripples for 1 hour.
spread along its surface, as if the pool is shifting.
68. Arch of Blades
Light. The white pillar fills this area with bright light. A large archway of worked stone stands at the center of this curv-
Pool. Silvery calm water forms this highly reflective, ing cavern. A stack of pig carcasses is piled haphazardly along
1-foot-deep pool. Until a character looks into the pool the eastern wall. Buckets are arrayed on the northern side of
and notices its mirrorlike nature, it takes a successful DC the arch, as well as along the southern wall near an archway.
20 Wisdom (Perception) check to notice that quality. On the curved wall west of the arch, about 3 feet from the
Creature. An elder black pudding lurks on the ceil- floor, is a glowing circle of glyphs.
ing here, reflected in the pool. Unless a character looks
up and sees the ooze, it quickly slides down the pillar Creatures. One Red Wizard oversees two Thayan
and attacks with surprise. apprentices and six skeletons here. Four skeletons drag
White Pillar. At the start of each of its turns, a crea- pig carcasses toward the arch and heave them through,
ture within 20 feet of the pillar regains 1d6 hit points. where blades scythe outward and reduce each body
However, if this effect restores a wounded creature to to a heap of blood, flesh, and bone on the far side. Two
its hit point maximum, the creature is blinded until it skeletons then pick up shovels and collect the gore in
completes a long or short rest. buckets, making the flesh easier to transport.
If the characters watch long enough, the appren-
Spawning Pools tices eventually carry full buckets toward the southern
entrance and retrieve empty buckets stacked there to
In these connected chambers, Red Wizards breed bring back to the skeletons.
oozes for their experiments. Arch of Blades. This 3-foot-thick, 15-foot-diameter
Noise. Those anywhere near area 68 hear the loud arch is a former trap imbued with powerful enchant-
sound of steel grinding flesh and bone, rising and fall- ment magic. The Red Wizards suppressed the magic,
ing at intervals. The noise means that Thayans here fail but they could not do away with it completely. Any crea-
to perceive sounds of combat from nearby areas. ture that starts its turn within 5 feet of the arch must
Glyph Keys. Each Red Wizard in this zone has a succeed on a DC 15 Wisdom saving throw or be com-
glyph key attuned to this zone. pelled to run through the archway.
The magic blades in the arch come to life when any
67. Laboratory Barracks creature comes within 5 feet of the arch. A creature
Dozens of fine gilt mirrors stand between silk hangings along that moves through the arch takes 33 (6d10) slash-
the walls of this once-splendid salon. A dozen rough cots are ing damage, or half that much on a successful DC 15
spread across the center of the room. Shrouded magic lights are Dexterity saving throw. A creature that runs through
set into floor stands between them, dimly lighting the area. the arch must repeat the initial Wisdom saving throw,
In an eastern corner is a circle of runes and black onyx and on a failure, the creature stops moving while still
fragments set into the floor, exuding shadowy energy like within 5 feet of the arch. The creature can willingly
curling black smoke. move farther away only after the start of its next turn.
A creature that succeeds on two Wisdom saving
Advance Warning. Any character who studies the throws against the arch’s effect becomes immune to
room for a moment and succeeds on a DC 10 Wisdom that effect for 1 day.
(Perception) check notices that all the cots and lights Contact Stone. The circle of glowing glyphs is a
are 10 feet or more away from the walls. contact stone.
Creatures. Two Red Wizards and four Thayan
apprentices are sleeping here. When roused, they pull 69. Spawn Cavern
the cots over and use their spells from behind cover. Broad circular pools are spread across this cavern, each filled
They try to force or draw the characters close to the with dark goo. The area smells of blood.
walls and the magic mirrors, hoping to summon the
deadly defenders of this area. Creatures. One Red Wizard oversees two Thayan
Cursed Mirrors. Cursed mirrors are on all the walls apprentices here. They walk a circuit around the pools,
except those within 5 feet of exit points, including the carefully jabbing down into them with the ooze prods
black gate and the secret door. Conjuration magic in the they carry.
mirrors works such that any living humanoid that moves Spawn Pools. These 5-foot-deep pools are filled
within 5 feet of one must succeed on a DC 15 Wisdom with ravenous ooze spawn that are nourished into full-
saving throw or a howling wraith emerges from the grown oozes on pig meat. Each pool has either gray
oozes, ochre jellies, or black puddings. The pools are
52

magically warded (abjuration) to keep the spawn from damage. A creature that holds its breath or doesn’t need
P R E DATO R P O O L S
climbing up the interior walls, but that doesn’t keep to breathe has advantage on the saving throw.
them from striking nearby creatures with their nascent Ooze Pool. Filled with the remains of dead oozes,
pseudopods. Any creature that starts its turn adjacent the pool is 2 feet deep and difficult terrain. A creature
of a spawn pool must succeed on a DC 15 Dexterity that enters the pool or starts its turn there takes 9 (2d8)
saving throw against the lashing tentacles of ooze or acid damage and 9 (2d8) poison damage. A creature
take 7 (2d6) acid damage. If a creature strikes a pool can take this damage only once per round.
with an ooze prod, the pool’s pseudopod attacks are sup- Contact Stone. The circle of glowing glyphs is a
pressed until the end of that creature’s next turn. contact stone.
A creature that enters or starts its turn in a pool Developments. Any noise in this area alerts crea-
takes 9 (2d8) acid damage. A creature can take this tures in areas 72 and 73.
damage only once per turn.
72. Ooze Duel
Culling Pens This cavern bears minor signs of multiple combats.
Young oozes feed on each other in the great pools that
fill these caverns. Creatures. One Red Wizard and two dread war-
riors watch from near the eastern wall as four Thayan
70. Battle Pool warriors battle a gelatinous cube. Two of the four war-
riors have been engulfed, and all are at half hit points
If creatures remain here, those approaching this area
(as is the ooze). The cube treats all creatures in the area
can hear creatures thrashing in liquid.
as enemies.
A jet-black pool that roils like a storm-tossed sea takes up half
this cavern. 73. Jelly Pit
A rough pit takes up half of this cavern.
Creatures. One Red Wizard and two Thayan
apprentices are focused on the black pool with their Creatures. One Red Wizard and two Thayan
ooze prods. When the Thayans leave to deal with the apprentices use ooze prods to keep three young ochre
adventurers, a young black pudding emerges from the jellies in the pit and fighting. When the Thayans start
ooze pool at the start of the second round. Another combat with the characters, each of the three jellies
young pudding emerges at the start of the fourth round, emerges from the pit 1d4 rounds later (roll for each).
and another at the start of the sixth round. The Thayans The oozes see all other creatures as prey.
try to keep the characters between them and the pool, Jelly Pit. Filled with young ochre jellies, living and
since the oozes see all other creatures as prey. dead, the pit is 5 feet deep and difficult terrain. Trans-
Ooze Pool. Filled with black puddings, living and mutation magic on the pit keeps most of the jellies in
dead, the pool is 2 feet deep and difficult terrain. Trans- a torpid state so they react only to stimulation from a
mutation magic on the pool keeps most of the puddings nearby source. A creature that enters or starts its turn in
in a torpid state so they react only to stimulation from the pit takes 9 (2d8) acid damage. A creature can take
a nearby source. A creature that enters or starts its turn this damage only once per turn. In addition, every time
in the pool takes 14 (3d8) acid damage. A creature can a creature moves 5 feet in the pit, the creature is subject
take this damage only once per turn. In addition, every to an opportunity attack from a young ochre jelly.
time a creature moves 5 feet in the pool, the creature
is subject to an opportunity attack from a young black
pudding. Predator Pools
The Red Wizards’ plans involve the disruption and con-
71. Dead Pool trol of the Sword Coast’s trade. To that end, the Thayans
A reeking, acrid pool of slime and sludge fills most of this are spawning an aquatic army.
cavern, leaving only a rocky ledge to both sides. Pools. The saltwater pools in this sector are 50 feet
East of the pool is a glowing circle of glyphs on the wall deep, and the surface of each pool is 1 foot below the
about 3 feet from the floor. surrounding floor. It takes 5 extra feet of movement
to move from a pool onto the floor. Unless otherwise
Noise. Unless areas 72 and 73 have already been noted, transmutation magic in each pool keeps the
cleared, combat noise comes from them. water clean.
Acidic Vapor. The air contains acidic vapors. A The pools also share enchantment magic. Living in
creature that starts its turn here must succeed on a the water causes hypnotic dreams that, after prolonged
DC 10 Constitution saving throw or take 2 (1d4) acid exposure, improve combat skill and imbue most crea-
tures with strong devotion to the Red Wizards.
53

can direct the globe to move with it, remaining within
5 feet of the controller. A globe’s controller can enter
and leave the globe at will. The controller can maintain
control of the globe while within 100 feet of it. Another
creature that qualifies as a controller can wrest control
of a globe by winning a contest of Intelligence against
the current controller.
A creature that touches a globe without being its con-
troller must succeed on a DC 15 Strength saving throw or
be drawn into the globe and unable to pass back through
its boundary. As an action, a trapped creature can free
itself with a successful DC 20 Intelligence check. Also
as an action, a globe’s controller can release a trapped
creature with a successful DC 10 Intelligence check.
A creature inside a globe has half cover against effects
that originate outside the globe. While inside a globe, a
trapped creature can’t contest for control of the globe.
Pools of Devotion
A spirit naga oversees this sector and its creatures.
74. Kraken Pool

Beyond a broad round pool in the center of this circular
chamber is a circle of runes and black onyx fragments set into
the floor, exuding shadowy energy like curling black smoke.
A magical simulacrum of a kraken is held in this salt-

water pool. Although it responds to specific orders from
Red Wizards, it attacks anyone in the room who looks
over the edge of the pool.
75. Dragon Turtle Prison

If the dragon turtles are still here, characters approaching
this area can hear the rattle and clank of immense chains.
Gigantic steel bolts have been driven into the stone floor of
this immense area, attached to heavy chains. These trail
down into the water of a vast pool situated between curv-
ing northern and southern staircases that lead up to double
doors. Two enormous globes of blue liquid are suspended in
the air to the east.
Reactions. Creatures in this sector usually hesitate
Creatures. Two juvenile dragon turtles, recently
to attack those who seem to be Thayan but quickly over-
taken from Lake Thaylambar, have been chained here
come this reticence if the characters linger and fail to
while the insidious mind control magic of the pools
act to type. Most aquatic monsters prefer to drag foes
takes effect. They are not yet under the sway of Thay, so
into the water.
they grow agitated when any creature enters this cham-
Water Globes. Floating 5 feet above the floor, these
ber, and they’re likely to attack.
magic water globes (transmutation) are 15 feet in diam-
The dragon turtles want freedom, and they’re small
eter. Red Wizards use them to hold aquatic creatures
enough to use a black gate. Any offer of freedom causes
for transport through the black gates.
a break in hostilities while the creatures listen. If freed,
As an action, a creature that is within 5 feet of a
unless the characters know of the circle in area 82, the
globe and has an Intelligence score of 10 or higher can
dragon turtles go to area 76 and escape through the
take control of the globe by succeeding on a DC 10
gatehouse. Syranna is sure to mention that fact when
Intelligence check. As part of its movement and with
she next speaks to the characters. “Thankfully,” she
a successful DC 10 Intelligence check, the controller
says, “the lakeshore is within sight of the gatehouse.”
54

Freed dragon turtles know that Ihanvas, the naga Warrior Pools
overseer of this zone, dwells in area 76. They can be per-
This gruesome zone is packed with the foulest of the
suaded with a successful DC 17 Charisma (Persuasion)
aquatic soldiers. Most of this zone has no light sources.
check to fight the naga if it is lured into this chamber.
Chains. Strong abjuration magic infuses the chains,
which are long enough to allow the dragon turtles free 77. Scrag Pool
run of the chamber. When a dragon turtle moves, any A circular pool in this chamber has foul slime filled with bits
creature within 10 feet of its path must succeed on a of bone along its edge. To the west is a circle of runes and
DC 12 Dexterity saving throw or be knocked prone. black onyx fragments set into the floor, exuding shadowy
The dragon turtles can’t harm or break the binding energy like curling black smoke.
chains. However, the characters can open each of the
two pin locks on each dragon turtle with a successful Creatures. Two scrags, a male and a larger female,
DC 20 Dexterity check or one knock spell. lurk in the pool.
Pool. The floor around the pool is crusted with the
76. Naga’s Den remains of the scrags’ meals. Any creature that fails a
Dexterity saving throw while on the floor in this area
If the spirit naga is still here, anyone who listens at the
falls prone. If the save fails by 5 or more, the creature
entry doors hears a scream of pain.
falls into the pool.
The magical light shimmers off two circular pools in this
chamber. A glowing glyph covers a broad area of the floor in
the south. On the eastern wall between the pools is a glowing
circle of glyphs about 3 feet from the floor. Scrag (Aquatic Troll)
A scrag is an aquatic troll. It has the same statistics as
Creatures. Ihanvas, the spirit naga overseer of a normal troll except that instead of a climb speed, it
this zone, is eating a prisoner. The naga attacks any has a swim speed of 30 feet. A scrag also has the fol-
intruders. Ten prisoners also linger in the pools here. lowing additional trait:
Ihanvas’s Charisma, combined with the magic water, Aquatic. The scrag can breathe underwater, and
has turned them into the naga’s willing devotees. They being underwater imposes no penalty on its attack rolls
defend their master in any battle. or ability checks.
Southern Interior Door. The southern door to area
77 is locked.
Curse Glyph. Ihanvas wants to block direct access
to her lair from area 77, so a magical glyph has been
placed in the area marked on the map. Any creature
78. Undead Pool
that enters the marked area must succeed on a DC 16 The stench of death is overwhelming here. The pool at the
Wisdom saving throw or have disadvantage on attack center of this chamber is a blackened sea of floating corpses.
rolls against the naga, while the naga has advantage on Three enormous globes of blue liquid are suspended in the air
saving throws against the creature’s capabilities. The to the east.
effect is a curse that lasts until Ihanvas dies. West of the pool, just south of a set of double doors, is a
Pools. A lip around the interior edge of each pool pro- glowing circle of glyphs on the wall about 3 feet from the floor.
vides a 5-foot shelf where the water is only 3 feet deep.
Further, a tunnel connects each pool to the other at the Creatures. Eight lacedons here are inactive, appear-
bottom, so the two pools are really one U-shaped structure, ing like corpses in the water until they catch the scent
which Ihanvas can use to move through the room. of living creatures.
Contact Stone. The circle of glowing glyphs is a Pool. The necromancy magic in this pool is intended
contact stone. not to keep it clean but to kill intruders. Any creature
Treasure. Ihanvas carries a glyph key attuned to that makes an attack dealing radiant damage in this
this zone, the Warrior Pools, the Spawn Pools, and the area must succeed on a DC 20 Wisdom saving throw
Blood Pools. The naga also wears a platinum circlet set
with sapphires (1,000 gp) and matching earrings
(500 gp for the pair).
Hidden at the bottom of the pools’ connecting Lacedon (Aquatic Ghoul)
tunnel, Ihanvas’s treasure includes 200 pp, five tour- A lacedon is an aquatic ghoul. It has the same statistics
maline jewels (100 gp each), +1 plate armor and a sealed as a normal ghoul except that it has a swim speed of
ivory case that holds spell scrolls of detect magic (2), 30 feet.
identify (2), restoration (2), and remove curse.
55

or move to the pool and jump in as soon as it can. Any piercing damage. A creature can take this damage only
living creature that enters the pool or starts its turn once per turn.
there takes 8 (2d8) necrotic damage. A creature can Trenches. The 2-foot-wide, 1-foot-deep trenches
take this damage only once per turn. connecting the pools and pits are filled with spawning
Developments. Any combat that lasts more than essence, but it is diluted power has no effect on crea-
3 rounds attracts the scrags in area 77 or the merrows tures touching it.
in area 79 (choose one). They enter the fray here at the
start of the fifth round. 80. Black Gate Pool
Contact Stone. The circle of glowing glyphs is a
Beneath walls set with relief carvings of humanoid couples
contact stone.
romantically entwined, the bottom of a slimy, dimly luminous
pool is shrouded in shadow. Trenches from the pool flow into
79. Bone Pool 1-foot tubes in the wall. An enormous globe of blue liquid is
The floor of this sweltering chamber and its pool are spread suspended in the air to the west.
with a fine layer of shattered bone. The dim light from a
pair of low-burning braziers reveals piles of animal skulls set Creatures. Five kuo-toas are on guard. Another
around the edge of the water. four kuo-toas are sleeping at the bottom of the pool.
The kuo-toas are loyal to Thay and expect to be asked
Creatures. Four merrows entertain themselves by to escort those passing through this area. They attack
decorating their lair and chewing bones. anyone who makes no such request.
Pool. The magic of the pool has failed, and the water Pool. This zone’s black gate is underwater in the
is dangerously filthy. Any creature that starts its turn in pool. The pool’s magic can do only so much with the
the pool must succeed on a DC 10 Constitution saving natural excretions of its inhabitants.
throw against poison or become nauseated and have Developments. If combat lasts longer than 3
disadvantage on attack rolls and saving throws until the rounds, it draws the attention of the creatures in area
start of its next turn. All the creatures in this zone are 81. They open the southern doors during the fourth
immune to this effect. round of combat and feign retreat to draw adventurers
Bones. Pig bones and humanoid bones are scattered into the spawn pits in area 81.
across the floor, but a few 1-foot-high piles are difficult
terrain. 81. Spawn Hall
Braziers. The magic stone braziers (evocation) are
Relief carvings along this arch-roofed hall show disturbing
built into the room and can’t be moved. A creature that
scenes of demons and humanoids engaged in debauchery.
touches a brazier takes 3 (1d6) fire damage. A creature
Five pits cut into the floor are filled with glowing water. South
can take this damage only once per turn.
of these pools on a rough wall is a glowing circle of glyphs
about 3 feet from the floor.
Spawn Pools
The Red Wizards refocused the magic of these once- Creatures. A dread warrior two wights and four
deadly pools to spawn aquatic creatures under the zombies. They attack anyone who isn’t escorted by
supervision of a sea hag. kuo-toas or the sea hag, pursuing such interlopers to
Spawning Essence. Blue glowing water in this any area of the zone.
zone is spawning essence, the transmutation magic of Contact Stone. The circle of glowing glyphs is a
which causes spawn to grow quickly and strengthens contact stone.
their predatory nature. A creature that drinks spawn- Glyph Key. The dread warrior has a glyph key
ing essence gains the benefit of completing a short rest. attuned to this zone.
A creature can safely gain this benefit only once per
tenday. Each time a creature drinks when unsafe, it 82. Sea Hag Lair
gains no benefit and must succeed on a DC 18 Wisdom Two large pools fill a chamber whose walls are carved with
saving throw or suffer the effects of a confusion spell for reliefs of humanoids frolicking with cherubic angels. Water
1 minute. The creature can repeat the saving throw at from the pools flows into pits that spread along the walls from
the end of each of its turns to end the effect early. one corner. A foul pile of debris and bones stands in the oppo-
Spawn Pools. The round pools in this zone are cut site corner of the chamber.
10 feet deep into the surrounding stone floor. Spawn
pools are filled with spawning essence. Creatures. Two male merrowss dwell in the south
Spawn Pits. Rectangular 5-foot-deep spawn pits are pool. A sea hag named Tanjus luxuriates under the sur-
filled with spawning essence. Each pit holds predatory face of the north pool with her pets, six giant crabs. She
fish juveniles, which attack any creature that enters or oversees the spawning pools in this zone and yearns to
starts its turn in the pit. Such a creature takes 2 (1d4) overthrow Ihanvas (area 76) for control of the Predator
Pools and their monsters.
56

During combat, Tanjus offers the characters a tem- Enmity between the baron and the priestess (area 84)
porary truce. She asks them to find and kill Ihanvas, means that these sahuagin make no attempt to call for aid.
because she desires to be the dominant force in this The sahuagin know the hazards of the pillars. They
portion of the dungeon. The hag offers two pieces of are not aware of the secret door.
lore and promises that none of her creatures will leave Paralysis Pillars. The tops of the pillars are even
this sector. She also says that the characters can move with the floor, and so they are 1 foot above the water
freely through this zone once the naga dies. surface. The remnants of an old magical trap (enchant-
Developments. If combat lasts longer than 3 ment) exist in the pillars marked on the map. A creature
rounds, it draws the attention of the creatures in area that ends its turn touching the top of one of those pillars
81. They open the southern doors during the fourth must succeed on a DC 15 Constitution saving throw or
round of combat and attack unless Tanjus orders them become paralyzed for 1 minute. The paralyzed creature
not to. slips into the water and sinks to the bottom of the pool.
North Pool. A magic circle (conjuration) is scribed The creature can repeat the saving throw at the end of
on the bottom of the north pool. It’s a combination sum- each of its turns to end the effect early.
moning circle and teleportation circle, but it’s currently Treasure. The baron wears +1 leather armor (shark
dormant. A spellcaster who succeeds on three DC 20 skin and chitin) and a crownlike helm of ivory, coral,
Intelligence (Arcana) checks can reactivate the circle. leather, and gold (500 gp). He also has a glyph key
The circle then allows teleportation, the character attuned to this zone.
knows, to the deep seafloor off Bezantur, deep in the At the bottom of the pool is a stone coffer that con-
Sea of Fallen Stars. tains a stash of 100 pp and eight large pearls (100 gp). It
Debris Pile. Any creature that starts its turn in this also has a crystal phial that contains a potion of delusion
disgusting pile, which is difficult terrain, must succeed that seems to be a potion of water breathing.
on a DC 10 Constitution saving throw against poison or
become nauseated, having disadvantage on attack rolls 84. Altar Pool
and saving throws until the start of its next turn. All the If the sahuagin are still here, those approaching this
creatures in this zone are immune to this effect. area hear chanting.
Secret Door. The secret door to the north is built
just above the spawn pit’s water. An octagonal pool fills this chamber. A slick of blood darkens
Treasure. Tanjus has a black pearl (500 gp), the water around a stepped stone altar that sits on a broad
a golden gorget set with aquamarines (1,000 gp), and pillar rising from the pool. Smaller pillars are spread around
a staff of charming. She has a glyph key attuned to this the central one. An enormous globe of blue liquid is sus-
zone and the Pools of Devotion. pended in the air to the north.
A successful DC 15 Intelligence (Search) check to
search the debris reveals five potions of water breathing Creatures. Four sahuagin stand and chant with
and two spell scrolls of water walk. a sahuagin priestess on the altar pillar. Another five
Dungeon State. If the adventurers leave Tanjus sahuagin and two hunter sharks dwell in the pool. A
alive and Ihanvas is killed, the hag and her merrows prisoner is bound on the altar.
relocate to area 76. However, no matter what happens, The chanting ritual that precedes the sacrifice takes
Tanjus and her monsters attack any characters who 3 rounds to complete. If the characters deal 20 or more
return to this zone. damage to the priestess in that time, she breaks off the
ritual to lead a counterattack. Otherwise, the prisoner
Blood Pools is slain and thrown to the shark. Any sahuagin on the
The Red Wizards have the allegiance of sahuagin altar then gains the effects of an aid spell and a bless
exiled from Aleaxtis in the Sea of Fallen Stars. Most of spell.
this zone has no light sources. Enmity between the priestess and the baron (area
83) means that these sahuagin make no attempt to call
83. Baron’s Court for aid.
Altar Pillar. The outside area of the pillar rises 1
The pool that takes up most of this circular chamber is filled
foot above the water. The central altar rises 3 feet above
with clear water. Stone pillars rise from the bottom to break
the outside pillar. It takes 5 extra feet of movement to
the surface. Sets of double doors are spaced evenly around the
move from the outside pillar to the top of the altar.
room’s perimeter.
Paralysis Pillars. See area 83.
Prisoner. If the prisoner is saved, he is in the same
Creatures. Six sahuagin swim along the surface
mental state as the prisoners in area 85. He can’t aid
around the edge of the pool, while the sahuagin baron
the adventurers or answer questions.
and two hunter sharks swim deeper down.
Ledge. A 10-foot-high rough ledge separates this
area from area 85.
57

Treasure. The priestess carries a dagger of venom 86. Hall of Teleportation
and wears a headdress of ivory, coral, leather, and gold The walls of this massive hall are carved with reliefs of
(500 gp). She also has a glyph key attuned to this zone. humanoid monarchs adorned with jeweled crowns and other
finery, servants bowing at their feet. Huge white pillars rise
85. Prisoner Cavern to the ceiling.
On the north wall of this cavern is a black stone shrine set
with relief carvings of roses. About a foot above the arcane Creatures. Three incomplete helmed horrors
shrine is a glowing circle of glyphs on the wall. To the south is and two incomplete flesh golems stand inactive here
a circle of runes and black onyx fragments set into the floor, in front of pillars, drawing on the lightning magic to
exuding shadowy energy like curling black smoke. become fully empowered. They come to life if attacked
or when the teleportation magic of the pillars is
Creatures. A dread warrior keeps watch with seven triggered.
skeletons. They do little but confront creatures moving Teleporting Pillars. The first time a creature
toward or appearing from either magical gate. The moves within 5 feet of a pillar on its turn, the creature
adventurers can enter and leave this area from the east must succeed on a DC 17 Wisdom saving throw or be
without fighting, even with the prisoners in tow. teleported to a random space next to another pillar
Part of the deal the Red Wizards struck with the (roll a d20). The creature also takes 5 (2d4) lightning
sahuagin involves providing prisoners for dark rites and damage. If the destination pillar is the same as the
horrid meals. The magic of the black shrine keeps ten origin point, the creature takes double damage.
prisoners circled around it in a catatonic state. An identify spell used on the pillars is enough to dis-
Black Shrine. Any living creature that moves or cern the teleportation magic.
ends its turn within 20 feet of the black shrine must
succeed on a DC 15 Intelligence saving throw, or the 87. Golem Vault
necromancy magic of the shrine lowers the creature’s Relief-carved walls showing nobles at a great feast make a
Intelligence, Wisdom, and Charisma scores by 1d6 (roll stark counterpoint to the stench of preservatives with a hint
once for all three). A creature can be affected only once of rot. Flesh golems in their first gruesome stages of assembly
per round. If any affected score is reduced to less than are on a few of the tables. Other tables contain only prepared
3, the character becomes paralyzed. A character who body parts and bones.
leaves the area recovers in 1 minute. A glowing circle of glyphs is set on the midpoint of the
Ledge. A 10-foot-high rough ledge separates this southern wall about 3 feet from the floor.
area from area 84.
Contact Stone. The circle of glowing glyphs is a Creatures. Two Red Wizards and two Thayan
contact stone. apprentices are in this area, moving among the tables
Glyph Key. The dread warrior has a glyph key working or selecting parts. Four skeletons keep watch
attuned to this zone. from the corners, while a ghoul mops gore from the
floors. Golems in this area can’t be activated and are no
Golem L aboratories threat.
Treasure. One table contains special unguents and
In these formerly cursed temples and workshops, the bindings used in the creation of the golems. A character
Red Wizards create golems. who succeeds on a DC 15 Intelligence (Arcana) check
Golems. Incomplete golems are reduced-threat realizes these materials, which weigh 10 pounds, are
monsters. If a golem is inactive, it is essentially worth 1,500 gp.
unconscious. Each Red Wizard has a glyph key attuned to this zone.
Dungeon State. When these areas are cleared, any Contact Stone. The circle of glowing glyphs is a
golems that remained inactive become inert and can’t contact stone.
be activated thereafter.
Treasure. The treasure in this sector consists of 88. Black Prison
materials and tools used in the creation of the golems, A large stone block on the floor between the room’s double
but the magic of these chambers makes the process doors prevents them from fully closing. Within, rusted black
much more efficient. As such, the value of this treasure iron cages hang by heavy chains from the ceiling of this dark-
is less than what might be expected. walled chamber. In the northeast corner is a circle of runes
and black onyx fragments set into the floor, exuding shadowy
Flesh Golem Mortuaries energy like curling black smoke.
Red Wizards bind and reanimate dead flesh and bone
in these halls.
58

Creatures. A wight com-
G O L E M L A B O R ATO R I E S
mands eight zombies who guard
this chamber while some mem-
bers of their squad recover in the
cages. One deathlock wight and
two wights rest in the cages.
Cages. The bottoms of these
unlocked cages hang 3 feet
above the floor. Necromancy
magic on the cages restores 20
hit points per hour to an undead
creature in a cage. A living crea-
ture in a cage takes the same
amount of necrotic damage each
minute it remains in the cage.
If detect magic is used on the
cages, they also radiate a resid-
ual aura of conjuration. They
used to be the destination for the
teleportation pillars in area 86.
Doors. If the 800-pound
stone block holding these doors
open is removed, they magically
slam shut (abjuration). It takes a
DC 30 Strength check to force
the doors open. A knock spell dis-
rupts the magic briefly, lowering
the Strength check DC to 20 for
1 minute.
Glyph Keys. One wight and
the deathlock wight each have a glyph key attuned to Also present are two incomplete clay golems. The
this zone. The deathlock’s key is also attuned to all the wizards or the cleric can activate a golem by succeeding
zones in the Ooze Grottos. on a DC 15 Intelligence check made as an action.
Clay Pits. These 3-foot-deep pits channel powerful
transmutation magic that converts rock walls and floor
Clay Golem Kilns to clay for use in golem construction. The soft clay is dif-
Red Wizards have repurposed this zone’s magic to the ficult terrain.
creation of clay golems. A creature that starts its turn in a clay pit must suc-
ceed on a DC 15 Strength or Dexterity saving throw
89. Transmutation Pits (creature’s choice) or take 5 (2d4) bludgeoning damage
Two sides of this chamber have collapsed to form shallow, and become restrained in the clay until the start of its
rough-walled pits filled with clay. Near the northern and next turn. A creature can escape the clay by succeed-
southern corners are circles of sigils that glow with red light. ing on the saving throw or by taking an action to make
In the eastern corner is a small array of urns and boxes. a DC 20 Strength check or Dexterity check and suc-
About 3 feet above them on the wall is a glowing circle of glyphs. ceeding. Another creature can try to pull a restrained
creature free by taking an action to do so and succeed-
Creatures. Two Red Wizards work here with a ing on a DC 20 Strength check. A creature that dies
dwarven cleric of Grumbar, a deity associated with cav- while trapped in the clay is transformed into a rough
erns and earth. The dwarf assists in the creation of clay clay statue.
golems, which require divine spellcasting. The dwarf, Teleportation Circles. Set into the floor, these
whose name is Gorvan Ironheart, was recruited by the teleportation circles (conjuration) have been partially
Red Wizards and offered a substantial sum of money disabled. A creature that enters a circle’s area is pushed
for assistance in crafting the golems. If questioned, back 10 feet and knocked prone. The first time a crea-
though, he lies, claiming to be a prisoner of the Red ture does so on a given turn, the creature takes 5 (2d4)
Wizards. If the characters spare him, he will accom- force damage.
pany the party until he sees an opportunity to escape.
59

Treasure. In the eastern corner are a few jars of into it and shunted violently into area 91, falling prone
rare oils and boxes of rare powders used in the creation and taking 3 (1d6) bludgeoning damage.
of the golems, along with some empty containers of Inside the room is the following scene.
the same. A character who succeeds on a DC 15 Intel-
ligence (Arcana) check realizes that these materials, Six enormous fiendish skulls are set into the walls of this vast
which weigh 15 pounds, are worth 3,000 gp. rectangular hall, two on each long side and one on each short
Each Red Wizard has a glyph key attuned to this zone. side. Each skull is 20 feet high and carved of dimly glowing
Contact Stone. The circle of glowing glyphs is a green stone, and it has a wide-open fanged mouth filled with
contact stone. dead gray mist.
In the center of the chamber is a circle of runes and black
90. Golem Pen onyx fragments set into the floor.
Pillars of white marble glow with intense white light that
brightly illuminates the area. The light is so bright that it Fiendish Skulls. The fiendish skulls are imbued
almost obscures the arcane glyphs carved in the archways with powerful magic. When any character steps into a
that lead into the room. skull’s mouth, macabre laughter erupts from the north-
west corner. The character is teleported to the mouth
Pillars of Light. The intense bright light, created by of another skull (roll 1d6 to determine randomly),
evocation magic in the pillars, causes disadvantage on where he or she comes tumbling back into the room,
ranged attack rolls and ability checks made to search or falling prone and taking 3 (1d6) bludgeoning damage.
see in this area. In addition, whenever a creature starts The character must succeed on a DC 15 saving throw
its turn in the chamber proper (not in an entryway next (the ability is based on the skull’s number) or suffer the
to the glyphs), it must succeed on a DC 13 Constitution skull’s curse. The curse is a cumulative –1d4 penalty to
saving throw or become blinded until the start of its checks and saving throws for the indicated ability score.
next turn. If a character has an accrued penalty of –5 or more, the
Arcane Glyphs. In the entryways, arcane glyphs on character also suffers the curse’s secondary effect. A
the wall can be used to control the pillars. When some- remove curse spell can remove the penalty and effect.
one touches the glyphs, the pillars flicker, and it takes a 1) Strength, with a secondary effect of falling prone
successful DC 10 Intelligence (Arcana) check to guess whenever hit by an attack.
their function. A detect magic spell shows that the abju- 2) Constitution, with a secondary effect of reduction
ration aura of the glyphs is connected to the evocation to three-quarters of normal hit point maximum.
magic of the pillars, revealing the function of the glyphs 3) Dexterity, with a secondary effect of having to
without a check. move at half speed or falling prone at the end of the
A character touching the glyphs can take an action movement.
to subdue the pillars with a successful DC 10 Intelli- 4) Intelligence, with a secondary effect of being
gence (Arcana) check or shut them off with a successful unable to speak or understand language.
DC 15 Intelligence (Arcana) check. Subdued pillars 5) Wisdom, with a secondary effect of being unable
shine less intensely for 1 minute, and the DC for the to perceive anything more than 30 feet away.
saving throw against them becomes 8. However, while 6) Charisma, with a secondary effect that the charac-
the pillars are subdued, the golems regain 5 (2d4) hit ter gains an unpleasant odor that causes allies adjacent
points at the start of each of their turns. Deactivated to him or her to have disadvantage on checks and
pillars go dark for 1 minute, are subdued for another saving throws.
minute, and then return to normal function.
Creatures. Two incomplete clay golems in this area Secret Door. In the northwest corner, 20 feet above
are activated the first time a character fails a saving the floor, a secret door is hidden. The door is nearly
throw against the pillars or changes their light intensity. impossible to find from the floor (DC 30). The smooth
wall is hard to climb without aid, but the vaulted ceiling
91. Hall of Skulls provides places where a grappling hook might catch.
Beyond the secret door, a teleportation circle set into
Three of the skulls here connect to corridors, which the
the floor of a small chamber glows with a blood-red
Thayans simply avoid. Characters approaching this way
light. A creature that steps into the circle is teleported
see the following.
into one of the circles in area 89 (roll randomly).
Black Gate. Because it must be activated before it
Ahead is a broad archway of dimly glowing green stone.
can be used, the black gate here doesn’t exude shadowy
In it is a field of dead gray mist.
energy. Any character who successfully assesses the gate
knows that it must be activated and how to do so. A char-
Any creature that moves within 5 feet of the mist must
acter who succeeds on a DC 30 Intelligence (Arcana)
succeed on a DC 20 Strength saving throw or be pulled
check while holding a glyph key, which need not be
60

attuned to this zone, can reactivate the gate. The DC
G O L E M L A B O R ATO R I E S
decreases by 2 each time a character in the room enters
a fiendish skull’s mouth. Once the gate reactivates, it Roleplaying Lumalia
also attunes the activator’s glyph key to this zone. Kazit Gul called Lumalia, a servant of Mystra, forth and
bound her in the Doomvault centuries ago. Gul put
Stone Golem Quarries her into stasis and compelled her to slay each time she
Red Wizards have repurposed this zone’s magic to the awoke. She sensed Mystra’s death long ago and gave in
creation of stone golems. to despair. When she awoke this time, she didn’t real-
ize that Gul’s power over her had been broken, but she
feels the celestial spheres shifting. Once she is lucid and
92. Timeless Prison able to talk to the characters, she vows to aid them by
A statue of an angelic female stands on a raised dais at the moving through the Doomvault on her own.
center of this chamber, the walls of which glow dimly with Lumalia decides her first task will be to inflict justice
golden light. Cracked pillars support the crumbling ceiling, upon the Thayans. She is immortal, but her anger and
each carved in its lower portions to resemble a four-armed regret for the time lost during her imprisonment seems
gargoyle shrieking in rage. very human. In the thick of combat, she can become
To the northeast is a circle of runes and black onyx frag- lost in her thirst for vengeance upon the current owners
ments set into the floor, exuding shadowy energy like curling of the Doomvault. Lumalia was neutral good when she
black smoke. was imprisoned, but she is now chaotic good.
Creatures. When any living creature enters this
area, which the Thayans avoid, a four-armed gargoyle
emerges from a random pillar and attacks. At the start
of each round thereafter, another random pillar trans- giving way. Whenever a gargoyle emerges from a pillar,
forms until all six gargoyles have emerged. crumbling stone falls from the ceiling, making the area
With the Red Wizards drawing off the magic in around the pillar difficult terrain. Any creature next
this area to create stone golems, the ceiling is close to to the pillar must succeed on a DC 12 Dexterity saving
throw or take 10 (3d6) bludgeoning damage.
Deva Statue. Anyone who succeeds on a DC 15
Lumalia Intelligence (Religion) check recognizes the statue as
that of an astral deva. This creature is an extraplanar
agent of a good deity.
The last gargoyle to appear uses its initial action to
touch the deva statue, ending the curse holding the
creature in stasis. This astral deva’s name is Lumalia.
When she is freed, the walls shed bright light instead
of dim. The deva shrieks, unable to act until her turn,
when she attacks the nearest creatures. The gargoyles
stay away from her so that she targets the adventurers.
A character who succeeds on a DC 13 Wisdom
(Insight) check understands that the deva is crazed
from captivity. The characters can try to influence her
to direct her attacks only against the gargoyles, but
doing so takes a successful DC 15 Charisma (Persua-
sion) check to calm and refocus her attention.
Dungeon State. The magic of the Doomvault reso-
nates within Lumalia. She needs no glyph key to move
through the magical gates in the dungeon, although
she can’t allow others to do so. If she is free, her reso-
nance creates feedback in the gate system, making it
harder to find intruders in the dungeon. Tell the event
coordinator to subtract 1 from the alert level in the
Doomvault. The coordinator should also add Lumalia
to the special encounters.
61

93. Stone Quarry the archway stones flash. Until the end of the creature’s
If the giants are here, their working is audible from next turn, it can pass through any archway in this room
either doorway even with the doors closed. without being pushed or hurt. The Thayans know that
a creature holding a nonconductive object can gain the
A deep pit surrounded by loose rock and rubble scars the benefit of the panel without taking damage.
smooth marble floor of this chamber. A heavy rope descending Treasure. Each Thayan has a fine chisel (four total,
into the pit is connected to a system of winches and pulleys. 50 gp each). At the feet of the golem are a few jars of
Creatures. One stone giant operates the pulley rare oils and boxes of rare powders. A character who
system to haul stone out of the pit while a second giant succeeds on a DC 15 Intelligence (Arcana) check real-
cuts stone out of the pit. Both are occupied with their izes that these materials, which weigh 10 pounds, are
noisy work. worth 2,500 gp. Each Red Wizard has a glyph key
The giants joined the Dread Legion willingly, but attuned to this zone.
they hate their duties. Initially, they relish the chance to Contact Stone. The circle of glowing glyphs is a
take their wrath out on the party, but they listen to offers contact stone.
of freedom. They need a glyph key to leave the dungeon.
Pit. Filled with rubble, which is difficult terrain, the pit Iron Golem Foundries
is 30 feet deep with rough, gently sloped sides. The ropes Deadly elemental fire fuels the creation of iron golems
and pulleys above the pit are attached to a gigantic bucket to serve the Red Wizards. This whole area echoes with
used to raise rock. It takes a successful DC 15 Strength the roar of flames and flickers with firelight, in addi-
check to raise the bucket while it is filled with stone. tion to the magical lights. When the heat here isn’t
Rubble. The area within 10 feet of the pit is full of outright dangerous, it’s uncomfortable.
rock debris, so it is difficult terrain.
95. Efreeti Prison
94. Golem Assembly Characters approaching this area can hear the roar
If the Thayans are here, their working is audible from of flames.
any open hallway leading into the room.
A low, round pool of molten material sits at the center of this
White stones frame three other open archways in this cham- chamber. Smoke curls like tendrils from it, moving in unnatu-
ber. The four corner stones of each arch pulse with white light. ral ways. In three corners stand red urns, most cracked and
Walls in this vast space are set with copper panels that reflect empty but a few still closed and glowing with eldritch glyphs.
the magical lights, revealing piles of stone blocks.
In the eastern corner is a glowing circle of glyphs on the Fire Vent. A fire vent blocks the passage between
wall about 3 feet from the floor. here and area 97. A creature can jump over the vent
easily but must succeed on a DC 15 Constitution saving
Glowing Archways. Any creature that steps into one throw when doing so or take 5 (2d4) fire damage. Any
of the four archways here is hurled 10 feet into the room. creature that enters the vent or starts its turn there
The first time a creature does so on a given turn, the crea- takes 21 (6d6) fire damage instead. A creature can take
ture must also succeed on a DC 15 Constitution saving this damage only once per turn.
throw or take 5 (2d4) force damage and fall prone. Creatures. Two efreet are bound to the smoke at the
Touching any of an archway’s corner stones causes center of the room, so they can’t leave the area or use
that stone to change color for 1 round. Number the their powers against anyone outside the room. They are
corner stones from 1 to 4 and make the players specify the last among those kept in urns here.
which stones are touched. Select colors, pretending to Binding Smoke. The smoke tendrils form chains
consult the adventure each time. without solidity, but their abjuration magic holds the
Creatures. Two Red Wizards and two Thayan efreet in this area. An efreeti bound in this smoke is
apprentices are distracted by their work shaping an susceptible to the charm person spell and has disad-
incomplete stone golem here. However, they notice vantage on the saving throw. They are used to being
anyone hurled into the room. These Thayans all have charmed by those who enter here. They attack anyone
light hammers (1d6 + 2 bludgeoning damage) instead who fails to do so and fails to comply with orders to
of daggers. Either wizard can activate the golem by suc- grant the efreet freedom.
ceeding on a DC 15 Intelligence (Arcana) check made The efreet have no means to break the binding
as an action. smoke. They know it can be done with spells, such as
Stone Piles. The 3-foot-high piles of rough stone dispel magic (DC 17), gust of wind, knock, or any spell that
blocks are difficult terrain. can push the efreet out of the area of the lava pool. The
Copper Panels. If a creature touches a copper smoke dissipates if an efreeti is slain.
panel, the creature takes 2 (1d4) lightning damage, and
62

Molten Pool. The pool has a 3-foot wall. Any crea- If the efreeti is alive when the other foes in the area are
T E M P L E S O F EX T R AC T I O N
ture that enters the pool or starts its turn there takes 35 slain, it rampages like its kin in area 95.
(10d6) fire damage. A creature can take this damage Crucible. A 5-foot-high crucible contains molten
only once per turn. metal. As an action, a creature can attempt to shove
Urns. Two unbroken funeral urns stand in each the crucible over, taking 21 (6d6) fire damage in the
corner shown to have urns on the map. Primordial process. On a successful DC 15 Strength check, the cru-
glyphs on the urns suggest that they are binding ves- cible tips, and on a successful DC 20 Strength check,
sels for efreet, and detect magic reveals that they have the pusher can also push the crucible 5 feet before it
an aura of abjuration. The wax-seal stopper of an urn is tips. Molten metal quickly spreads from the crucible
broken easily, and the urn can be broken like any clay over an area 30 feet by 30 feet in size, including the
vessel of the sort. When broken, an urn releases a gas crucible and the area within 5 feet of it.
that makes any creature within 10 feet of the urn resis- Anyone caught in the area takes 21 (6d6) fire
tant to fire for 1 hour. Each urn is 1 foot tall and weighs damage and must succeed on a DC 15 Constitution
5 pounds. saving throw or fall prone. The floor of the area is cov-
Dungeon State. The magic of the Doomvault ered in molten metal. For 5 rounds, any creature that
resonates within the efreet, who have been here since enters the covered area or starts its turn there takes 10
before the Thayans came to power in the dungeon. (3d6) fire damage. (A creature can take this damage
They need no glyph keys to move through the magical only once per turn.) For 5 rounds after that, the damage
gates in the dungeon but can’t allow others to do so. If is 3 (1d6), and then it drops to none.
freed, the efreet rampage through the dungeon, prefer- Fire Vent. See area 95.
ring Thayan targets. Tell the event coordinator to add Treasure. A search of the molds across the room
them to the special encounters. reveals vials of rare tinctures and admixtures used in
the construction of iron golems. A character who suc-
96. Fire Vortex ceeds on a DC 15 Intelligence (Arcana) check realizes
This rough cavern splits off from the smooth walls of the that these materials, which weigh 30 pounds, are worth
adjacent chamber, its floor covered in a layer of ash. 5,000 gp.
Each Red Wizard has a glyph key attuned to this zone.
Ash. Elemental ash covers the floor to a depth of Contact Stone. The circle of glowing glyphs is a
half a foot, hiding how uneven the floor is. This entire contact stone.
area is difficult terrain.
Cavern Walls. The extremely rough walls make it
possible to climb across the cavern horizontally. Temples of Extraction
Elemental Vortex. When any creature reaches These “temples” are profane laboratories that fuel Szass
the center of the cavern, its walls suddenly erupt in a Tam’s schemes to ascend to godhood. Szass Tam and his
maelstrom of elemental fire for 2d4 rounds. Any crea- closest associates have reshaped this sector’s magic to
ture that starts its turn in the cavern takes 21 (6d6) fire collect the divine essence of the Chosen of various dei-
damage, or half of that on a successful DC 17 Dexterity ties. The Thayan regent believes this essence may be the
saving throw. key to becoming a god.
Creatures. The Thayans here are the most loyal and
97. Golem Forge fanatic servants of Szass Tam. They all know that no
At the center of this fiery hall is a huge crucible that exudes one is authorized in this sector, so the characters have
vapors. Dozens of molds and piles of armor plate are spread out a hard time fooling them. Except for the cowardly Red
before six hulking armored figures that stand along the walls. Wizard Shalok (area 103), the Thayans in this sector
To the southwest is a circle of runes and black onyx frag- are unlikely to surrender and are unwilling to help
ments set into the floor, exuding shadowy energy like curling intruders even at the cost of their lives.
black smoke. To the north of that is a glowing circle of glyphs A Red Wizard in this sector might feign surrender
on the wall about 3 feet from the floor. to put the characters off their guard. For example, a
wizard might fall to his knees. When the characters
Creatures. Two Red Wizards and two Thayan appren- close in, the wizard casts an area spell that includes
tices work on an incomplete iron golem in this area. himself and the party.
Either wizard can activate a golem by succeeding on a If a shrine of binding (see that section) exudes a mag-
DC 15 Intelligence (Arcana) check made as an action. ical effect to which creatures in the room can become
A charmed efreeti (see area 95) boils metal for them inured, the creatures guarding the shrine have already
in the crucible. The efreeti fights for its Thayan friends. become accustomed.
If freed of the charm person spell, it snatches up a fal- Doors. All the doors of this sector are locked.
chion intended for the golems and attacks the Thayans. Random Encounters. No random encounters occur
in the Temples of Extraction.
63

Shrines of Binding Charisma check, and unless the check succeeds by 5 or
more, the shrine is difficult terrain. On a failed check,
Each chamber of this zone features an identical 3-foot-
the creature is knocked prone next to the shrine and
high shrine whose arcane power is the center of the
takes 5 (2d4) force damage.
extraction process. When the characters see a shrine
Effects of a Shrine. Channeling the energy of the
for the first time, use the following description.
entrapped Chosen, each shrine creates magical effects
A three-step stone dais is set with four pillars, all carved of and light throughout its area. See each area descrip-
black jet. Glowing arcane runes surround the top edge of this tion for details. A successful DC 10 Wisdom check
shrine. Between the pillars, an unconscious humanoid is sus- allows a character to intuit the effects of a working
pended in a roiling field of golden light. shrine, including how it channels the life essence of the
entrapped Chosen to another place and how to disable
Thereafter, you can shorten the description of the it. When a shrine is disabled, its magical effect in the
shrine, but be sure to specifically describe the Chosen area ends and the Chosen is freed.
bound in it. Disabling a Shrine. The process for disabling a
Entering a Shrine. Stepping onto a shrine requires shrine is the same in each area. Characters who have
pushing through its tangible magical energy (multiple entered the shrine’s area must disable its magic with
schools of magic). A shrine is blocking terrain unless three DC 15 ability checks: Strength to smash the pil-
entered willingly. Doing so requires a successful DC 10 lars, Dexterity to remove elements and disable key
arcane runes, or Intelligence to
disrupt the flow of magical energy.
A character can make mulltiple
checks of the same type or any
combination. On any failed check,
the character who attempted the
check is pushed off the shrine and
knocked prone next to it, taking 5
(2d4) force damage.
Reaching the Phylactery
Vault. A character who studies
a disabled shrine of binding and
succeeds on a DC 15 Intelligence
(Arcana) check learns that the
essence of the Chosen is being
channeled through the shrine
using the power of the black
gates in this sector. A character
understands that if the power of
the black gates in the Temples
of Extraction can be overloaded,
those gates will attune themselves
to the location where the power of
the Chosen is being absorbed.
After the black gates in this
sector have been overloaded by
disrupting the black gates in other
sectors, any creature who has a
glyph key can enter one of these
black gates to be taken to the Phy-
lactery Vault.
The Chosen
In each area of the Temples of
Extraction, one of the Chosen of
the gods is being drained to grant
power to Szass Tam. Some of these
Chosen would be deadly threats,
64

but the binding ordeal leaves most of them physically 99. Temple of Suffering
and mentally weakened to the point that they pose no Stripes of red mist appear in the air in this white marble
real danger. The Chosen have no memory of how they chamber, as if someone is whipping the air and it bleeds.
came to be in the Doomvault, so they can offer no infor-
mation about the dungeon. Creatures. A Red Wizard and two Thayan appren-
Many of the helpless Chosen are thoroughly evil, tices work here, guarded by a dread warrior and
and good adventurers might balk at seeing them freed. four wights.
Take advantage of this situation to create opportunities If he is alive, the Red Wizard here is Mennek Ariz.
for interesting interactions. He was betrayed by Baazka and transported back to
If combat statistics become necessary, a helpless the Doomvault, where Red Wizard magic has left him
Chosen is AC 10, has 5 hit points, and makes checks brainwashed and charmed into service. Mennek rec-
and saves with a +0 modifier. If you plan on using this ognizes any adventurers who assaulted the Bloodgate,
adventure in a continuing campaign, killing a helpless shrieking out oaths of vengeance as he attacks. A char-
Chosen can later bring the adventurers into conflict acter who succeeds on a DC 15 Wisdom (Insight) check
with other agents of that Chosen’s deity. can discern that he is not acting of his own volition.
The magic of the Doomvault resonates within the Only magic, such as a dispel magic or a charm person, can
Chosen. A Chosen needs no glyph key to move through break him of the effect. Mennek can reveal two pieces
the magical gates in the dungeon, although the Chosen of lore.
can’t allow others to do the same. Suffering Aura. Whenever a creature in this room
deals damage to another creature, it must make a DC
Temples of Anguish 15 Wisdom saving throw. If the save fails, the attacker
The Chosen of deities known for torment have been takes radiant damage equal to one-quarter of the high-
imprisoned in these chambers. est damage dealt to one target. If the save succeeds, the
attacker instead regains a number of hit points equal to
98. Temple of Poison one-quarter of the highest damage dealt to one target.
The air in this white marble chamber hangs heavy with a Chosen of Ilmater. A lawful good male human
dark mist that burns the eyes. named Kieren is the Chosen of Ilmater. Ilmater is the
To the north is a circle of runes and black onyx fragments Crying God, the god of endurance, suffering, martyr-
set into the floor, exuding shadowy energy like curling dom, and perseverance. It is he who offers succor and
black smoke. calming words to those who are in pain, oppressed, or
in great need.
Creatures. A Red Wizard and two Thayan appren- Treasure. Mennek carries a wand of binding, as well
tices work here, guarded by a helmed horror. as a skeleton key that unlocks the doors of this zone. He
Dark Mist. The shrine exudes mist that makes the also has a glyph key attuned to this zone.
room lightly obscured. Any living creature that starts its
turn in the room must succeed on a DC 15 Constitution 100. Temple of Pain
saving throw against poison or become stunned until the A tangible feeling of unease and discomfort fills the air of
start of its next turn. If the save succeeds, the creature is this scarred marble chamber.
immune to this effect for a day and gains the following
trait. Constructs and undead can’t gain this trait. Creatures. A deathlock wight keeps watch here.
One wraith and four shadows circle around the shrine,
Venomous Touch. When the creature hits with a weapon attack, streaks of crimson trailing from their spectral forms.
that attack also deals 5 (2d4) poison damage. Web of Pain. Whenever a living creature in this
area takes damage, it must succeed on a DC 15 Con-
Chosen of Zehir. The Chosen of Zehir is a male stitution saving throw or, until the end of its next turn,
yuan-ti named Oussa. Zehir is the serpentine god of the creature makes attack rolls, Strength and Dexterity
poison, darkness, and murder. He is a strange god saving throws, and ability checks with disadvantage. In
worshiped primarily by yuan-ti. If Oussa is rescued addition, others make attack rolls against the creature
and then realizes that the adventurers are not Zehir’s with advantage until the end of its next turn.
faithful sent to help him, he uses his unholy power Chosen of Loviatar. A lawful evil female half-elf
to instantly transform into a fully capable giant viper named Irisroth is the Chosen of Loviatar. Loviatar, the
snake and attacks the party. Maiden of Pain, is the goddess of hurt and agony, and the
Glyph Key. The Red Wizard has a glyph key patroness of torturers. Loviatar teaches that the world is
attuned to this zone. filled with pain and torment, and the best that one may
do is to suffer those blows that cannot be avoided, and
deal as much pain back to those who offend.
65

Temples of Oppression Chosen of Ibrandul. A chaotic evil female drow
named Ashdra is the Chosen of Ibrandul. Ibrandul is a
The dark of living night and deadly abominations fuels
god of darkness and underground places once primar-
the shrines here.
ily worshiped by humans in southern lands such as
Calimshan. He was worshiped as a comforter and pro-
101. Temple of Ooze tector of those who travel and work in darkness.
The walls in this hexagonal hall of gleaming gray marble
shudder occasionally.
To the northeast is a circle of runes and black onyx frag- Temples of Turmoil
ments set into the floor, exuding shadowy energy like curling The magic of Szass Tam turns different facets of chaos
black smoke. to absolute evil in these great halls.
Creatures. A Red Wizard works here, with a wight 103. Temple of Fortune
leading two sentient gray oozes and two sentient ochre A pattern of shadow swirls around a shrine of binding and plays
jellies to guard her. Myrra, the Red Wizard, is espe- out across the white-and-gold marble floor of this hall.
cially cruel and likely to toy with the characters even To the west is a circle of runes and black onyx fragments set
when she is losing. into the floor, exuding shadowy energy like curling black smoke.
Ooze Walls. Once during any creature’s move-
ment within 15 feet of the walls, the creature provokes Creatures. A Red Wizard works here, guarded by
an opportunity attack as if made by a gray ooze with a a flesh golem and a wight. Shalok, the Red Wizard, is a
range of 15 feet. The attack roll is made with advantage. coward. If the fight goes badly for the Thayans, he sur-
Chosen of Ghaunadaur. A sickly and chaotic evil renders. He offers his keys and one piece of lore if the
male drow named Therzt is the Chosen of Ghaunadaur. adventurers let him flee to the gatehouse.
Ghaunadaur is a strange god worshiped primarily by Curse of Fortune. High and low d20 results matter
male drow seeking power outside the confines of a soci- more in this area:
ety dominated by women. Ghaunadaur is a malignant F Whenever a creature rolls a natural 1 on an attack
and unknowable deity that desires living sacrifice and roll, it takes the damage from its attack. A creature
destruction due to monstrous things, particularly oozes. that scores a critical hit can roll the extra damage die
If freed, Therzt babbles about the weakness he dem- twice instead of just once.
onstrated in being captured and declares that he must
die. As an action, Therzt casts Melf ’s acid arrow on him- F If a creature rolls a 1 on a saving throw, the creature
self while screaming his devotion to Ghaunadaur. The suffers the worst possible effect, such as maximum
acid consumes him utterly as unholy energy pulses out damage from a spell. If a creature rolls a 20 on a
to touch the walls, creating two gray oozes at the center saving throw, the creator of the effect that forced the
point of each wall. The oozes treat all creatures remain- saving throw suffers the effect instead.
ing here as prey. F Whenever a creature rolls a 1 on an ability check, it
Keys. The Red Wizard has a skeleton key that suffers the worst possible outcome of the attempted
unlocks the doors of this zone, as well as a glyph key action. Conversely, rolling a 20 on an ability check indi-
attuned to this zone. cates a particularly spectacular and favorable outcome.
102. Temple of Shadows Chosen of Tymora. A chaotic good male halfling

The shrine of binding takes up most of this black marble named Curran Corvalin is the Chosen of Tymora.
chamber, which has no light sources. Tymora is the goddess of good fortune, skill, and victory.
She is the patron of all who take risks. Although consid-
Light. Bright light from a source other than a spell of ered to be a good deity who favors those who take bold
3rd level or higher becomes dim light in this chamber. action, she is also seen as somewhat capricious. Those
Creatures. Six shadows lurk in this chamber. who participated in Scourge of the Sword Coast recognize
Poisoned Shadows. Whenever a living creature Curran. He was captured by the Red Wizards a couple
in this area takes damage, it must succeed on a DC weeks ago and taken through the Bloodgate. Curran
15 Wisdom saving throw or it can’t see, as if shrouded never considered himself to be a Chosen of Tymora,
in darkness that darkvision can’t penetrate. In addi- since he never had any powers. He always just assumed
tion, any light source the creature has that is not from he had unnaturally good luck.
a 3rd- or higher-level spell is extinguished and can’t be Curran is eager to return to Daggerford, but he is
relit until the effect ends 1 minute later. A creature can too weak to help the party. If taken to the gatehouse, he
repeat the saving throw at the end of each of its turns to awaits the party’s triumph there.
end the effect early, but on each failed saving throw, the
creature takes 5 (2d4) poison damage.
66

Keys. Shalok carries a skeleton key that unlocks the in area effects if it means harming more characters. If
doors of this zone. He also has a glyph key attuned to the fight goes badly, he uses the black gate to flee.
this zone. Curse of Death. Characters have disadvantage on
death saving throws made here.
104. Temple of Savagery Plague Mist. The shrine exudes mist that makes the
This chamber of red marble rings with the dying screams of room lightly obscured. Each creature that starts its turn
humanoids. The sounds arouse feelings of violence. in the cloud must succeed on a DC 15 Constitution
saving throw against poison, or it takes 5 (2d4) poison
Creatures. A Red Wizard has command over two damage and spends its turn retching and reeling. If a
dread warriors here. A shadow lurks at each pillar on creature fails three saving throws against this mist, the
the shrine of binding. creature’s hit point maximum is lowered by the amount
Curse of Bloodlust. In combat, a creature takes 5 of poison damage it takes from the mist. A creature
(2d4) psychic damage if it ends its turn without dealing that succeeds on three saving throws against the mist
damage to another creature. becomes immune until the creature has been out of the
Curse of Betrayal. Any creature that ends its turn mist for 1 hour.
in this area must make a DC 15 Charisma saving Chosen of Yurtrus. A neutral evil male orc named
throw. If the save fails, until the end of the creature’s Bandagh is the Chosen of Yurtrus. Yurtrus is the orc
next turn, for the purpose of opportunity attacks, it deity of disease, decay, rot, and death. Orcs fear Yurtrus
treats all other creatures as enemies and makes every and his priests have protected status in the tribe even
opportunity attack it can. In addition, the creature has though they are often weak or infirm in some way. Ban-
advantage on attack rolls for opportunity attacks. dagh is pockmarked from years of disease, and is in no
Chosen of Bhaal. This altar contains a Chosen of condition to pick a fight if he is freed.
Bhaal. Those who participated in the Murder in Baldur’s Treasure. Thutai wears bracers of defense and has
Gate adventure recognize the Chosen here. If none of scrolls of remove curse and speak with dead. He carries a
the players participated in that adventure, the Chosen skeleton key that unlocks all the doors of this sector. He
of Bhaal here is Torlin Silvershield, formerly a duke of also has a glyph key attuned to each zone in this sector.
Baldur’s Gate. Before this encounter, survey the play-
ers about the outcome of their experience with Murder 106. Temple of the Forest
in Baldur’s Gate, and use whichever character became Bare and gnarled vines thrust from the rough floor of this
the Chosen at the end of the adventure for a majority of green cavern, and roots dangle from the ceiling. The vines
participants. move as if in a breeze, though you feel none.
The Chosen has become a wight. His or her body
was retrieved by the Red Wizards after the events Creatures. A wraith and three will-o’-wisps guard
in Baldur’s Gate and transported back to the Doom- this chamber. The wisps start out invisible.
vault. It hisses an oath to Bhaal and attacks characters Clutching Vines. While on the ground, a creature
who free it, focusing on anyone it recognizes from the that moves more than half its speed or misses with a
Murder in Baldur’s Gate adventure. melee attack causes the branches within 5 feet to elon-
Bhaal is the Lord of Murder, and until the events of gate and grasp. Each creature on the ground in the area
Murder in Baldur’s Gate, was a dead god. He is a patron to must succeed on a DC 15 Strength saving throw or
assassins and murderers. become restrained in the vines. The area becomes dif-
ficult terrain. A restrained creature can take an action
Temples of Nature to make a DC 13 Strength check, freeing itself on a
success.
The power of nature is stripped down to its most
Chosen of Rillifane Rallathil. A neutral good
destructive core in this area.
female wood elf named Eira is the Chosen of Rillifane
Rallathil, the elven god of the woodlands and of the
105. Temple of Plague harmony of nature. He is seen as a calm and steady
A glowing green mist drifts around a shrine of binding in this deity, quite unlike his more mercurial fellow elven
white marble chamber. deities.
To the southwest is a circle of runes and black onyx frag- As part of the experiments in this sector, Eira has
ments set into the floor, exuding shadowy energy like curling been infused with the essence of a Chosen of Talona
black smoke. who was sacrificed. The binding process has left Eira at
half her hit points but otherwise in good shape. She begs
Creatures. A Red Wizard and a deathlock wight to join the adventurers in the fight against the Red Wiz-
work here, guarded by a dread warrior and four zom- ards. If she does, when she enters combat, the Talona
bies. Thutai, the Red Wizard, is the overseer of this side surfaces and contests for control. She argues out
sector. He cares little for his underlings, including them loud with herself, and 50 percent of the time she acts
67

chaotic evil and without concern for her saviors. While
talking to herself, she reveals what happened to her as
Final Session
well as one piece of lore. If Eira drops to 0 hit points, she This session features all groups playing in the Phylac-
disintegrates, her body dividing and turning to ash. tery Vault. Once the characters disrupt enough black
gates throughout the dungeon, they can use the gates in
107. Temple of Winter the Temples of Extraction to travel to the vault.
At the start of the Final Session, Syranna calls all
A blast of freezing air comes through the open doors to this
groups back to the gatehouse to brief them on their
chamber, whose walls are covered with ice.
final task. If you’re playing this adventure as part of
D&D Encounters and the groups haven’t yet managed
Creatures. A Red Wizard and a Thayan appren-
to disrupt enough black gates to gain entry into the
tice work here, with four trained yetis as bodyguards.
Phylactery Vault, consult the event coordinator and dis-
Aduna, the Red Wizard, and her apprentice prefer to
cuss how you’d like to proceed. If you’re short on time,
stand near the braziers.
you can assume that NPCs such as Jekk, Shalendra,
Braziers. The magic stone braziers (evocation) are
and Hadarr have helped in disabling some of the gate,
built into the room and can’t be moved. A creature that
allowing entry into the Phylactery Vault.
touches a brazier takes 3 (1d6) fire damage. A creature
At the start of the session, the event coordinator,
can take this damage only once per turn.
speaking as Syranna, reads:
Chill Metal Aura. A creature within 10 feet of a
brazier ignores this effect. Any other creature wield-
The image of a female Red Wizard appears again before you,
ing a metal weapon or wearing metal armor must
and speaks. You recognize the form as Syranna’s.
succeed on a DC 15 Constitution saving throw at the
“Hello again,” she says. “I confess that I’m surprised you
start of each of its turns or take 5 (2d4) cold damage.
have persevered so well. Your actions have significantly dis-
A creature that fails the saving throw by 5 or more has
rupted activity here in the Doomvault. The wards remain,
disadvantage on Strength- and Dexterity-based attack
though, and until you complete one last action, I cannot
rolls, ability checks, and saving throws until the start of
teleport you home.
its next turn.
“You have a chance to deal a heavy blow to Szass Tam
Chosen of Auril. The Chosen of Auril is a chaotic
and the liches of Thay. The black gates have been disrupted,
evil female human named Hedrun Arnsfirth. Auril
allowing entry into a chamber deep beneath the Doomvault.
is a callous and cold-hearted bringer of winter. Most
Accessible only by magic, this room is called the Phylactery
humans propitiate Auril with offerings or prayers
Vault, because it houses the phylacteries of many of Szass
when the first frosts come and curse her name during
Tam’s high ranking lich servants.
blizzards.
“I remind you that it was I who saved you when the Blood-
If your players participated in the Legacy of the Crystal
gate shattered and your allies were too slow to extract you.
Shard adventure, they may recognize Hedrun the Ice
Do this last task, and you shall be rewarded for your service.
Witch, the Chosen of Auril. If she survived that adven-
Enter the phylactery vault, defeat its guardians, and disrupt
ture, then she is alive and captured here. If she was
the magic there. You can enter through the black gate when
slain, or if no one at your table played that adventure,
you are ready.”
then she is now a wight. She curses an oath to Auril and
attacks characters, swearing vengeance on Ten Towns
Characters can ask questions of Syranna, but she can
and the people of Icewind Dale. She focuses her attacks
supply only information that has been acquired from
on anyone she recognizes from the Legacy of the Crystal
the “Phylactery Vault” lore section on page 25.
Shard adventure. Although Icewind Dale is a long way
from Thay, the Red Wizards have been scouring the
world for such individuals, and they found Hedrun Entering the Vault
(dead or alive) and captured her. The Phylactery Vault is a tetrahedral space, and the
Treasure. Aduna wears a robe of summer, and the characters are inside that space. Each face of the vault
apprentice wears a magic robe whose abjuration magic has its own gravity. In effect, every surface is a floor. See
keeps him comfortable in extreme natural temperatures. the “Gravity” section for more details.
Aduna carries a skeleton key that unlocks all the doors of The event coordinator begins by describing the area.
this zone, as well as a glyph key attuned to this zone.
The vast four-sided pyramidal space has a floor of rough-
hewn white marble set with low circular pedestals of the same
material. At the three corners of the floor stand sepulchers of
white marble, each a three-sided pyramid reflecting the shape
of the vault. Engraved into each sepulcher’s double doors is a
four-armed gargoyle, poised to attack. A pool of dark liquid
churns in the center of the floor.
68

FINAL SESSION
69

70

The characters either sense the relative gravity or reveals that disrupting the flow of eldritch energy
FINAL SESSION
observe it as each group arrives on a different floor. within can destroy the relics. Disrupting the energy
flow takes intense concentration.
Features It takes three successful DC 15 Intelligence (Arcana
or Religion) checks performed by a character trained in
The maps show how each floor connects to adjacent
Arcana or Religion to disrupt a sepulcher’s protective
floors. Each floor has the following features.
magic and destroy its phylacteries. On each failed check,
Dark Pools. Each dark pool is 1 foot deep and dif-
the character takes force damage equal to the amount by
ficult terrain. Any creature that starts its turn in a dark
which the check failed. The first time a character makes
pool takes 9 (2d8) necrotic damage. A creature in a
this check, he or she realizes that each glyph key he or
dark pool can’t regain hit points.
she possesses grants a +1 bonus to the check.
Pedestals. These 3-foot-high pedestals store radi-
When the group disables its first sepulcher on a side,
ant energy, which is released in the presence of undead
read the text below.
intruders. If an undead creature other than Kazit Gul
ends its turn within 5 feet of a pedestal, the creature
Fountains of shadowy energy burst from the dark pools to
must succeed on a DC 14 Charisma saving throw or
form an inky vortex in the open air at the vault’s center.
take 11 (2d10) radiant damage.
A gleaming black humanoid skull flies out of the vortex.
Rubble Piles. Along the edge of each floor, a pile of
It has a ruby in each of its eye sockets and eight oversized
loose chunks of black marble rises to a height of 3 feet as it
glowing diamonds in place of teeth.
crosses to the adjacent floor. This rubble is difficult terrain.
Sepulchers. The double doors to these tetrahedral
If multiple groups are participating in the event,
pyramids are locked (successful DC 17 Dexterity check
inform the event coordinator, who will communicate
to pick the lock or DC 20 Strength check to burst). If
to the other groups the appearance of the aspect of
either of the two doors on a sepulcher is opened, each
the demilich. As each group opens its first sepulcher,
door on that sepulcher transforms into a four-armed
another aspect of Kazit Gul appears. In this way, each
gargoyle and attacks.
group ends up battling a copy of the creature while
Within each sepulcher is a set of phylacteries.
trying to disable the sepulchers.
See the “Phylacteries” section.
Gravity Kazit Gul

An aspect of Kazit Gul attacks the characters who are
Each face of the vault’s tetrahedral space has its own
disrupting the sepulchers. The aspect is weaker than
gravity. The gravity also has the following effects.
a normal demilich, but it still has significant power.
Flying. A creature flying from one floor to land
If multiple groups are participating in the event and
on another must succeed on a DC 10 Dexterity (Acro-
the aspect defeats one of the groups, it moves to attack
batics) check or fall prone upon landing. If multiple
another. If the aspect is destroyed, read the following
groups are participating in the Final Session, then a
text.
character who moves to a floor where another group is
active can roll initiative and join that party.
The skull turns to black ash that floats away, and its eight jew-
Ranged Attacks. Due to the weird gravity, crea-
eled teeth fall to the ground.
tures have disadvantage on attack rolls for ranged
weapon attacks made from one floor to another.
The jeweled teeth that contain souls gleam with inner
Rubble Piles. Each side of the tetrahedron is sur-
light. If the gem is crushed, the soul is released. It
rounded by piles of rubble. Crossing to the rubble
departs for the afterlife unless its body is intact and
pile to an adjacent floor requires a successful DC 17
within 10 feet of the crushed gem.
Strength check or Dexterity check. If the check fails,
the creature falls prone in the rubble pile.
Endgame
Phylacteries To destroy the Phylactery Vault, all aspects of Kazit Gul
must be destroyed, and a quantity of sepulchers must
The sepulcher walls hum with arcane power. On stone shelves
be disabled based on the number of groups participat-
are leather cases, amulets, daggers, scroll tubes, unholy sym-
ing in the Final Session: three sepulchers for one group,
bols, and other ornate objects. These are the phylacteries of
six sepulchers for two groups, nine sepulchers for three
Szass Tam’s lich servants.
groups, or twelve sepulchers for four groups.
When all aspects of Kazit Gul have been destroyed
Protected by the magic of the sepulcher, the phylacter-
and enough sepulchers have been disabled, the magic
ies can’t be harmed. A successful DC 10 Intelligence
coursing through the Phylactery Vault unravels. The
(Arcana) check made to assess the magic of a sepulcher
event coordinator reads the following text.
71

The white pedestals crumble to rubble and the dark pools
dissipate, leaving behind black ash. The vortex overhead col-
A ppendix 1.
lapses, spilling black ash and diamonds onto the floor. Your
glyph keys pulse with blue light and subtle vibrations. The
M agic Items
black gates begin to pulse in time with the keys.
Loadstone
A character can make a DC 13 Intelligence (Arcana) Wondrous item, very rare
check to assess the failing magic and confirm that the This stone appears to be a large semiprecious stone
Phylactery Vault is collapsing. worth 150 gp. Its magical nature is hidden, so that
If all the demilich’s jeweled teeth have been detect magic does not detect the stone.
destroyed when the Phylactery Vault begins to collapse, Secret. As soon as the stone’s carrier needs to move
then Kazit Gul is permanently slain. The characters quickly, such as in combat, the loadstone’s curse acti-
present can hear a distant wail and sense Gul’s death. vates, rendering the carrier encumbered. While the
The adventurers’ glyph keys allow them to travel curse functions, the carrier’s maximum load and maxi-
through the black gates, but the only place they can mum lift capacities are halved. Whatever the carrier
go is the gatehouse. does to the stone, unless the curse is first undone, the
stone reappears on his or her person soon after, taking
Conclusion up a hand if the carrier has no other receptacle that can
With the Phylactery Vault destroyed, Syranna is true to hold the stone.
her word and uses teleport to return characters back to
the North, along with any NPCs they saved from the Plate Mail of Vulnerability
Doomvault. She invites any characters who proved Armor (plate), very rare
useful, particularly those with arcane talents, to remain
This cursed magic armor functions as normal plate
in Thay under her leadership. She promises them
armor until attuned to its wearer.
power and influence if they throw in support for her.
Attuned. The armor appears to be +2 plate armor.
Any fallen adventurers who were raised as soul-
Secret. The wearer of this plate armor has a –2 pen-
bound undead cannot leave the Doomvault without
alty to Armor Class. In addition, when an enemy scores
dying permanently. Syranna assures undead charac-
a critical hit against the wearer, the armor falls off,
ters who choose to stay that she will see that they are
leaving its wearer unarmored (but still attuned to the
restored to life, once she gains sufficient power.
armor). While attuned, the wearer cannot choose to
If the characters return to Daggerford, they find Sir
wear any other armor. The wearer can end attunement
Isteval and Darfin Floshin. The pair is eager to hear of
to this armor only if the curse is ended.
events in the Doomvault, and reacts to the return or
loss of Jekk, Hadarr, Shalendra, and Curran. Although
Iseval expresses relief that the Red Wizard plot was Robe of Summer
thwarted, he is concerned that they may not have seen Wondrous item, uncommon
the last of Baazka or Tarul Var (if he survived). Most This elegant garment is made from fine cloth in hues of
troubling to them are tales from the Temples of Extrac- red, orange, and gold. While you wear the robe, you are
tion and Szass Tam’s apparent effort to collect the comfortable as if the temperature were that of a balmy
divine essence of Chosen. Isteval concludes with words day, so you suffer no ill effects from extreme natural
that allude to the future of the Sword Coast: cold or natural heat. In addition, you have resistance
to cold damage.
A new threat looms on the horizon. The Cult of the Dragon
has become increasingly active, though we don’t yet know its
purpose. Factions, new and old, are gathering adventurers to
Staff of Evocation
Staff, rare
face this threat. If you seek to challenge these threats, look to
the Harpers, the Order of the Gauntlet, the Emerald Enclave, To use any of the staff ’s properties, you must attune
the Lords’ Alliance and . . . even the Zhentarim. Together, these yourself to the staff. You may only do so if you are a
groups will face the new challenges. mage. This staff weighs 4 pounds.
Magic Implement [Attuned]. While wielding this
staff, you have a +1 bonus to the DC to resist any evoca-
tion spell you cast.
Ray of Frost [Attuned]. While wielding the staff,
you can cast the ray of frost spell at will.
Spell Knowledge [Attuned]. While wielding the
staff, add chain lightning, fireball, ice storm, and magic
missile to the list of spells you know or have prepared.
72

A ppendix 2. NPCs Hadarr Karakaya
APPENDIX 2. NPCS
Medium humanoid (human), chaotic good
Armor Class 17 (+1 dragon leather armor)
Eira, Chosen of Rillifane Rallathil Hit Points 41 (7d6 + 14)
Medium humanoid (wood elf), neutral good (evil) Speed 30 ft.
Armor Class 17 (+1 studded dragon leather) Str 11 (+0) Dex 18 (+4) Con 14 (+2)
Hit Points 58 (9d8 + 18) Int 14 (+2) Wis 10 (+0) Cha 16 (+3)
Speed 35 ft. Saving Throws Dexterity +7
Str 10 (+0) Dex 14 (+2) Con 14 (+2) Proficiencies Acrobatics +7, Arcana +5, Deception +9, History
Int 12 (+1) Wis 16 (+3) Cha 16 (+3) +5, Perception +6, Search +8, Stealth +7; navigation tools,
Saving Throws Wis +7, Cha +7; advantage on saving throws thieves tools (+6)
against being charmed Languages Common, Dwarvish, Elvish
Proficiencies Arcana +5, Perception +7, Search +5, Survival +7
Special Senses darkvision 60 ft. Cunning Action. On each of his turns, Hadarr can take a second
Immunities disease, poison, sleep action to disengage, hide, or hustle.
Languages Common, Draconic, Elvish Sneak Attack. When Hadarr attack a creature and hits, he
Spellcasting. Eira is a 9th-level spellcaster who uses Wisdom can deal 2d6 extra damage to that target if he has advantage
as her magic ability (spell save DC 15). She knows the against it or if another enemy of the target is within 5 feet of it
following spells: and is not incapacitated.
Cantrips (At Will)—druidcraft, spare the dying Spellcasting. Hadarr is a 7th-level spellcaster who uses
1st Level (4 Slots)—animal friendship, cure wounds, entangle, Intelligence as his magic ability (spell save DC 13). He knows
healing word the following spells:
2nd Level (3 Slots)—barkskin, calm emotions, lesser Cantrips (At Will)—mage hand*, minor illusion, prestidigitation
restoration, spike growth 1st Level (4 Slots)—cause fear, color spray, comprehend
3rd Level (2 Slots)—call lightning, holy vigor, mass healing word languages, disguise self
Poison Strike (3/Day). When Eira hits with a melee attack, once 2nd Level (2 Slots)—invisibility, suggestion
per turn she can expend a use of this trait to deal 9 (2d8) extra *Hadarr can use mage hand to use tools and skills with which
poison damage to the target she hit. he has proficiency.
Actions Actions
+1 Scimitar—Melee Attack. +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Two-Weapon Fighting. Hadarr wields a scimitar in each hand
Hit: 6 (1d6 + 3) slashing damage and 4 (1d8) poison damage and engages in two-weapon fighting.
Melee Attack—Silvered Scimitar. +6 to hit (reach 5 ft.; one
Gorvan Ironheart, Cleric of Grumbar creature); Hit: 7 (1d6 + 4) slashing damage, or 3 (1d6) slashing
Medium humanoid (dwarf), chaotic neutral damage if the hit was with the second of two attacks.
Armor Class 16 (chain mail)
Hit Points 33 (6d8 + 6) Reactions
Speed 25 ft. Evasion. When an attacker Hadarr can see hits him with an
Str 12 (+1) Dex 10 (+0) Con 12 (+1) attack, he can use his reaction to halve the attack’s damage
Int 10 (+0) Wis 16 (+3) Cha 14 (+2) against him.
Special Senses darkvision 60 ft.
Resistances poison
Skills Persuasion +4, Religion +2
Languages Common, Dwarvish
Dwarven Resilience. Gorvan has advantage on saving throws
against poison effects.
Stonecunning. While underground, Gorvan has advantage on
Wisdom (Perception) checks and knows its approximate depth
beneath the surface.
Spellcasting. Gorvan is a 6th-level spellcaster that uses
Wisdom as his magic ability (+6 to hit; spell save DC 14). The
cleric knows the following spells:
Cantrips (At Will)—light, sacred flame, thaumaturgy
1st Level (4 Slots)—cure wounds (or inflict wounds), healing
word, sanctuary
2nd Level (3 Slots)—lesser restoration, spiritual weapon
3rd Level (3 Slots)—mass healing word, prayer
Actions
Mace—Melee Attack. +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature.
Hit: 4 (1d6 + 1) bludgeoning damage.
73

Jekk Ironfist Actions
Medium humanoid (dwarf), neutral good Two-Weapon Fighting. To engage in two-weapon fighting,
Armor Class 17 (+1 studded dragon leather armor) Kelson wields a longsword in his primary hand and a short
Hit Points 55 (6d10 + 18) sword in his off hand.
Speed 25 ft.
Melee Attack—+1 Longsword. +7 to hit (reach 5 ft.; one
Str 18 (+4) Dex 14 (+2) Con 16 (+3)
creature). Hit: 8 (1d8 + 4) slashing damage.
Int 10 (+0) Wis 13 (+1) Cha 9 (–1)
Saving Throws Strength +5, Constitution +4 Melee Attack—+1 Shortsword. +7 to hit (reach 5 ft.; one
Proficiencies Acrobatics +4, Athletics +5, History +2, creature). Hit: 7 (1d6 + 4) piercing damage.
Intimidation +1, Stealth +4
Special Senses darkvision 60 ft. Ranged—+1 Longbow. +7 to hit (ranged 150/600 ft.; one
Languages Common, Dwarvish creature). Hit: 8 (1d8 + 4) piercing damage.
Action Surge (1/rest). Jekk can take an extra action on his turn.
Dwarven Resilience. Jekk has advantage on saving throws
Mennek Ariz
Medium humanoid (human), lawful evil
against poison, and resistance against poison damage.
Armor Class 15 (bracers of defense)
Actions Hit Points 38 (8d6 + 8)
Speed 30 ft.
Multiattack. Jekk makes two melee attacks. If he hasn’t used
Str 9 (–1) Dex 14 (+2) Con 13 (+1)
his whole move for the turn, he can move between attacks.
Int 18 (+4) Wis 16 (+3) Cha 12 (+1)
Melee Attack—+1 Silvered Greataxe. +7 to hit (reach 5 ft.; Saving Throws Intelligence +7, Wisdom +6
one creature); Jekk scores a critical hit on a roll of 19 or 20. Proficiencies Arcana +7, Deception +4, History +7, Insight +6,
Hit: 10 (1d12 + 4) slashing damage. Persuasion +4
Languages Common, Draconic, Elvish, Infernal, Primordial,
Second Wind (1/rest). Jekk takes the dodge action and gains
Thayan
1d10 + 6 temporary hit points for 5 minutes.
Aura of Antipathy. Any creature that can be charmed has
disadvantage on melee attack rolls against Mennek, provided
Kelson Darktreader he is not incapacitated.
Medium humanoid (half-elf), neutral good
Spellcasting. Mennek is an 8th-level spellcaster that uses
Armor Class 18 (+1 mithral scale armor)
Intelligence as his magic ability (spell save DC 15). He has the
Hit Points 72 (9d10 + 18)
following spells prepared:
Speed 30 ft.
Cantrips (At Will)—prestidigitation, ray of frost, shocking grasp
Str 17 (+3) Dex 16 (+3) Con 14 (+2)
1st Level (4 Slots)—cause fear, magic missile, shield
Int 13 (+1) Wis 16 (+3) Cha 11 (+0)
2nd Level (3 Slots)—hold person, mirror image, suggestion
Saving Throws Dexterity +6, Wisdom +6
3rd Level (3 Slots)—dispel magic, lightning bolt
Proficiencies Animal Handling +6, Athletics +6, Insight +6,
4th Level (2 Slots)—confusion
History +4, Perception +6, Medicine +6, Nature +6, Stealth +6,
Survival +6; mounts (land), herbalism kit Actions
Special Senses low-light vision
Melee Attack—+1 Dagger. +6 to hit (reach 5 ft.; one creature).
Languages Common, Dwarvish, Elvish, Goblin, Orc
Hit: 5 (1d4 + 3) piercing damage.
Fey Ancestry. Kelson has advantage on saving throws against
being charmed, and magic cannot put him to sleep. Reactions
Instinctive Charm. When a creature within 50 feet of Mennek
Land’s Stride. Moving through nonmagical difficult terrain
that he can see attacks him, Mennek can use his reaction to
costs Kelson no extra movement.
force the creature, provided it can be charmed, to succeed
Mobility. Any creature that makes an opportunity against on a DC 15 Wisdom saving throw or be unable to choose
Kelson has disadvantage on the attack roll. him as a target.
Spellcasting. Kelson is a 9th-level spellcaster that uses Wisdom

as his magic ability (spell save DC 14). He has the following
spells prepared:
1st Level (4 Slots)—cure wounds, hunter’s mark
2nd Level (3 Slots)—hunter’s veil, lesser restoration
3rd Level (2 Slots)—conjure barrage
74

Shalendra Floshin A ppendix 3. Monsters
A P P E N D I X 3. M O N S T E R S
Medium humanoid (gold elf), lawful neutral
Armor Class 19 (+1 studded dragon leather armor, shield)
Hit Points 49 (9d8 + 9) Aboleth
Speed 30 ft. Large aberration, lawful evil
Str 14 (+2) Dex 15 (+2) Con 13 (+1) Armor Class 8
Int 17 (+3) Wis 12 (+1) Cha 13 (+1) Hit Points 135 (18d10 + 36)
Saving Throws Constitution +4, Wisdom +4 Speed 10 ft., swim 40 ft.
Special Senses low-light vision Str 21 (+5) Dex 7 (–2) Con 15 (+2)
Proficiencies Arcana +6, Athletics +5, History +6, Insight +4, Int 18 (+4) Wis 11 (+0) Cha 11 (+0)
Persuasion +4; flute, mounts (land), vehicles (land) Saving Throws Int +9, Con +7, Cha +5
Languages Primordial, Sylvan Skills Perception +10
Action Surge (1/rest). Shalendra can take an extra action on Languages Deep Speech
her turn.
Aquatic. The aboleth can breathe underwater, and being
Fey Ancestry. Shalendra has advantage on saving throws underwater imposes no penalty on its attack rolls or checks.
against being charmed, and magic cannot put her to sleep.
Mucous Cloud. While underwater, the aboleth surrounds itself
Keen Senses. Shalendra has advantage on Wisdom with a 1-foot-thick cloud of mucous. Any living creature that
(Perception) checks. inhales the cloud must succeed on a DC 14 Constitution saving
Spellcasting. Shalendra is a 5th-level spellcaster who uses throw. If the save fails, or if the target forgoes the saving throw,
Intelligence as her magic ability (spell save DC 14). She has the target can breathe underwater (as the water breathing spell)
the following spells prepared: for 1d4 hours, but cannot breathe air for the same duration.
Cantrips (At Will)—minor illusion, prestidigitation, ray of frost, Telepathy. The aboleth can communicate telepathically with any
shocking grasp creature within 100 feet of it that can understand a language.
1st Level (4 Slots)—magic missile, shield, thunderwave
2nd Level (3 Slots)—invisibility, scorching ray Actions
3rd Level (2 Slots)—haste Multiattack. The aboleth makes four tentacle attacks.
Actions Tentacle—Melee Attack. +8 to hit, reach 10 ft., one creature.
Multiattack. Shalendra makes two longsword attacks. Hit: 12 (2d6 + 5) bludgeoning damage, and the target must
If she hasn’t used her whole move for the turn, she can succeed on a DC 14 Constitution saving throw or be cursed.
move between attacks. While cursed, the target cannot regain hit points, and its skin
becomes a translucent, slimy membrane over a period of 1
Melee Attack—+1 Longsword. +6 to hit (reach 5 ft.; one minute. Once the transformation is complete, the target’s
creature); Shalendra scores a critical hit on a roll of 19 or 20. skin must be kept damp with cool water, or the target takes 5
Hit: 7 (1d8 + 3) slashing damage. (1d10) necrotic damage at the end of each of its turns. A lesser
restoration or remove curse spell cast on the target ends the
curse and restores the target’s flesh to normal.
Tail—Melee Attack. +8 to hit, reach 10 ft. one creature. Hit: 15
(3d6 + 5) bludgeoning damage.
Dominate (3/Day). One creature that the aboleth can see
within 30 feet of it must succeed on a DC 14 Wisdom saving
throw or be dominated by the aboleth. While dominated, the
target can’t take reactions, and the aboleth has a telepathic
link to it. Through the link, the aboleth chooses the target’s
actions and where it moves by commanding it telepathically.
The aboleth must be able to take actions to issue telepathic
commands, and if it gives the target no commands, the target
does nothing other than what it needs to survive, such as
moving away from a threat. The aboleth cannot order the
dominated target to do something that is obviously self-
destructive. If the target receives a dispel magic or lesser
restoration spell, or if the target and the aboleth move more
than 1 mile apart, the target is no longer dominated, and the
aboleth’s telepathic link to it is broken.
Mind Probe. The aboleth can probe the mind of any living
creature it can see within 100 feet of it and instantly know
the creature’s deepest desire(s).
75

Air Elemental Astral Deva
Large elemental (air), neutral Medium celestial, lawful good
Armor Class 13 Armor Class 17
Hit Points 45 (7d10 + 7) Hit Points 90 (12d8 + 36)
Speed 0 ft., fly 60 ft. Speed 30 ft., fly 90 ft.
Str 14 (+2) Dex 17 (+3) Con 13 (+1) Str 18 (+4) Dex 18 (+4) Con 18 (+4)
Int 6 (–2) Wis 10 (+0) Cha 10 (+0) Int 17 (+3) Wis 20 (+5) Cha 20 (+5)
Special Senses darkvision 60 ft. Saving Throws Wis +9, Cha +9
Immunities poison; dehydration, disease, petrification, poison Skills Perception +9
effects, sleep, starvation, and suffocation; can’t be paralyzed, Special Senses darkvision 120 ft.
restrained, or knocked prone Immunities necrotic, poison; charmed, frightened; disease,
Resistances lightning, thunder, damage from nonmagical poison effects, sleep effects; doesn’t need to sleep
weapons Resistances radiant; bludgeoning, piercing, and slashing from
Languages Primordial (Auran) nonmagical weapons
Languages Supernal
Air Form. The elemental can enter a space occupied by an
enemy. In addition, if air can pass through an opening, the Magic Resistance. The deva has advantage on saving throws
elemental can do so without squeezing. against spells and other magical effects.
Hover. The elemental hovers as long as it is alive. Angelic Weapons. While in the living deva’s hands, the deva’s
weapons are magical, deal extra damage, and can deal radiant
Actions damage as noted in the attack.
Slam—Melee Attack. +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit: 11
Spellcasting. The deva is a 12th-level spellcaster that uses
Charisma as its spellcasting ability (spell save DC 17, +9 to hit).
Whirlwind. Each creature in the elemental’s space must make It needs to use only somatic and verbal components to cast its
a DC 14 Strength saving throw. On a failure, a target takes 15 spells. The deva knows the following spells:
(3d8 + 2) bludgeoning damage and is flung up 20 feet away At Will—detect good and evil
from the elemental in a random direction and knocked prone. 1/Day Each—commune, raise dead
If a thrown target strikes an object, such as a wall or floor, the
Telepathy. The deva can communicate telepathically with any
target takes 3 (1d6) bludgeoning damage for every 10 feet it
creature within 100 feet of it that can understand a language.
was thrown. If the target is thrown at another creature, that
creature must succeed on a DC 10 Dexterity saving throw or Actions
take the same damage and be knocked prone.
Angelic Mace—Melee Weapon Attack. +8 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
If the saving throw is successful, the target takes half the
one target. Hit: 25 (1d6 + 4 plus 4d8) bludgeoning or radiant
bludgeoning damage and is pushed so that it is no longer in
damage (the deva’s choice).
the elemental’s space.
Lay on Hands (3/Day). The deva touches another creature, and
the creature regains 20 (4d8 + 2) hit points. In addition, the
Air Grue touch removes all diseases, curses, and poisons afflicting the
creature.
Small elemental (air), neutral evil
Armor Class 13 Change Shape. The deva polymorphs into a Medium or
Hit Points 14 (4d6) smaller beast or humanoid, or back into its angelic form. Any
Speed 5 ft., fly 50 ft. change in shape works as if the deva cast the true polymorph
Str 12 (+1) Dex 17 (+3) Con 10 (+0) spell on itself, but instead of the spell’s duration, the deva can
Int 8 (–1) Wis 11 (+0) Cha 8 (–1) remain in the new form indefinitely. If slain, the deva reverts
Special Senses blindsight 15 ft., darkvision 120 ft. to its angelic form.
Immunities poison; dehydration, disease, petrification, poison
effects, sleep, starvation, and suffocation; can’t be paralyzed,
restrained, or knocked prone
Resistances cold, damage from nonmagical weapons
Languages Primordial (Auran)
Against the Wind. Neither wind nor thunder can force
the grue to move.
Move as Wind. The grue is invisible and silent while it is moving.
Actions
Melee Attack—Slam. +4 to hit (reach 5 ft.; one creature).
Hit: 8 (2d4 + 3) slashing damage.
Appearance
The grue is invisible or a cloud of swirling vapor with lashing
tentacles and three glowing red eyes.
76

Aspect of Kazit Gul Barghest
Tiny undead, neutral evil Medium fiend (shapechanger), chaotic evil
Hit Points 80 (20d4) Hit Points 38 (7d8 + 7)
Speed 0 ft., fly 30 ft. Speed 30 ft. (50 ft. in fiendish wolf form)
Str 1 (–5) Dex 20 (+5) Con 10 (+0) Str 18 (+4) Dex 14 (+2) Con 13 (+1)
Int 20 (+5) Wis 17 (+3) Cha 20 (+5) Int 14 (+2) Wis 11 (+0) Cha 14 (+2)
Saving Throws Int +11, Wis +9, Cha +11 Saving Throws Con +4, Cha +5
Special Senses true seeing 120 ft. Special Senses darkvision 120 ft.
Immunities cold, lightning, necrotic, poison, psychic; Resistances damage from nonmagical weapons
bludgeoning, piercing, and slashing from nonmagical weapons; Languages Abyssal, Goblin
charmed, frightened, intoxicated, paralyzed, prone, stunned,
Pass without Trace. While in fiendish wolf form, the barghest
unconscious; disease, petrification, poison effects, polymorph,
can pass without trace (as the spell) at will.
Turn Undead; any effect targets a creature’s soul; doesn’t
breathe, drink, eat, or sleep Actions
Resistances acid, fire, force, radiant, thunder; bludgeoning,
Bite—Melee Attack (Fiendish Wolf Form Only). +7 to hit, reach 5
piercing, and slashing from magic weapons
ft., one creature. Hit: 13 (2d8 + 4) piercing damage.
Languages —
Claws—Melee Attack (Goblin Form Only). +7 to hit, reach 5 ft.,
Avoidance. If the aspect of Kazit Gul is subjected to an effect
one creature. Hit: 11 (2d6 + 4) slashing damage.
that allows it to make a saving throw to take only half damage,
it instead take no damage if it succeeds on the saving throw, Change Shape. The barghest polymorphs into a Small goblin. It
and only half damage if it fails. statistics do not change except for its size, and any equipment
it carries is not transformed. It reverts to fiendish wolf form
Hover. Even while incapacitated, if it still has hit points, the
when dropped to 0 hit points.
aspect of Kazit Gul continues to hover.
Spellcasting (Goblin Form Only). The barghest is a 7th-level
Telepathy. The aspect of Kazit Gul can communicate telepathically
spellcaster that uses Intelligence as its spellcasting ability
with any creature within 100 feet that understands a language.
(spell save DC 12). It needs to use only somatic and verbal
This telepathy extends into the Ethereal Plane.
components to cast its spells. The barghest knows the
Actions following spells:
At Will—levitate, misdirection
Trap the Soul. The aspect of Kazit Gul chooses one creature
1/Day Each—dimension door
within 30 feet of it that it can see. The creature must make a
DC 14 Wisdom saving throw. On a failure, the creature’s soul Reactions
is trapped inside one of the aspect of Kazit Gul’s eight gems
Devour Body and Soul. When the barghest kills a humanoid
(two in the eyes and six in the jaws), and the creature’s body
creature, it begins gorging on the creature’s body. It feeds
collapses and decays, turning to dust by the start of the aspect
until the end of its next turn, whereupon it also swallows
of Kazit Gul’s next turn. On a success, the creature takes 14
the creature’s soul and traps it in its gullet. If the barghest is
(4d6) necrotic damage, and if this damage reduces the creature
wounded before it can finish gorging, it loses the soul and
to 0 hit points, its soul is trapped as if it failed the saving throw.
gains no benefits.
The aspect of Kazit Gul devours any soul trapped in one of
When the barghest traps a soul, its current and maximum
its gems for 24 hours. The soul is then completely gone.
hit points both increase by 10 for 24 hours. These benefits are
If the aspect of Kazit Gul drops to 0 hit points, it is destroyed
cumulative with multiple gorgings, up to a maximum increase of 60
and turns to powder, leaving behind its eight gems. Crushing a
hit points. After 24 hours, a trapped soul is completely consumed,
gem releases any soul trapped within, which can be seen as a
and the barghest’s maximum hit points decrease by 10.
glow in the gem. However, the soul’s body must be within 10
A creature killed by the barghest cannot be raised from the
feet of the crushed gem and in a condition to return to life, or
dead as long as its soul is trapped in the barghest’s gullet. A
the soul is released into the afterlife.
creature whose soul is completely consumed by the barghest
Legendary Actions cannot be raised or resurrected by any means. If the barghest
dies, any undigested souls in its gullet are released.
The aspect of Kazit Gul gains one legendary actions at the
end of each of its turns. It can take these actions at any time
between then and the start of its next turn, when any untaken
legendary actions are lost. The aspect of Kazit Gul can take its
legendary actions in the following ways, spending the specified
number of actions:
• 1 Action. The aspect of Kazit Gul swirls its dusty remains
around it. Each creature within 10 feet of the aspect of Kazit
Gul, including around a corner, must succeed on a DC 14
Constitution saving throw or be blinded until the end of the
aspect of Kazit Gul’s next turn. A creature that succeeds on
the saving throw is immune to this effect until the end of the
aspect of Kazit Gul’s next turn.
• 1 Action. At the start or end of another creature’s turn, the
aspect of Kazit Gul flies up to half its speed.
77

Basilisk Behir
Medium beast, unaligned Huge monstrosity, neutral evil
Speed 20 ft. Speed 50 ft., climb 40 ft.
Str 13 (+1) Dex 8 (–1) Con 12 (+1) Str 23 (+6) Dex 13 (+1) Con 18 (+4)
Int 2 (–4) Wis 14 (+2) Cha 12 (+1) Int 5 (–3) Wis 14 (+2) Cha 12 (+1)
Special Senses darkvision 60 ft. Skills Perception +7, Stealth +6
Immunities petrification from any source other than its own eyes Special Senses darkvision 90 ft.
Languages — Immunities lightning
Languages Draconic
Petrifying Gaze. Each creature that starts its turn within 30 feet
of and able to see the basilisk’s eyes must either make a DC Actions
11 Constitution saving throw against petrification or, unless
Multiattack. The behir makes one bite attack and one
surprised, avert its own eyes. Until the start of its next turn, a
constrict attack.
creature that averts its eyes has disadvantage on attack rolls
against the basilisk. On a failed save, the creature is restrained Bite—Melee Attack. 10 to hit, reach 10 ft., one creature. Hit: 22
and begins to turn to stone. While restrained in this way, a (3d10 + 6) piercing damage.
creature must repeat the saving throw at the end of its next
Constrict—Melee Attack. +10 to hit, reach 10 ft., one creature.
turn, becoming permanently petrified on a failure or ending
Hit: 17 (2d10 + 6) bludgeoning damage plus 17 (2d10 + 6)
the effect on a success.
slashing damage, and the creature is grappled and restrained
A petrified creature is stunned and has resistance to all
while grappled. While grappling in this way, the behir can
damage. If it is physically broken or damaged while petrified,
constrict only the grappled creature.
the creature suffers from similar damage or deformities when
it reverts to its normal state. Lightning Breath (Recharge 6). The behir breathes lightning in
If it sees its own eyes reflected on a polished surface that’s a 20-foot line. Each creature in the line must make a DC 12
within 30 feet of it and in an area of bright light, the basilisk Dexterity saving throw, taking 65 (11d10) lightning damage on
can be affected by its own gaze. a failed save, or half as much damage on a successful one.
Actions Swallow Whole. While grappling a Medium or smaller creature,
Bite—Melee Attack. +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. the behir can make one bite attack against the creature, and
Hit: 8 (2d6 + 1) piercing damage. if the attack hits, the creature is swallowed. While swallowed,
the creature is blinded and restrained. Until it is freed, the
swallowed creature takes 10 (3d6) acid damage at the start of
each of the behir’s turns. A behir can have only one creature
swallowed at a time.
A swallowed creature can cut its way free by dealing 15
piercing or slashing damage to the behir’s gizzard. If the behir
is incapacitated, the swallowed creature can be pulled or crawl
the 10 feet out of the behir. In either case, a freed creature is
then prone in a space within 5 feet of the behir.
78

Beholder 6—Telekinesis. The creature must contest its Strength against
Large aberration, lawful evil the beholder’s Charisma. If the beholder wins, it moves the
Armor Class 15 creature up to 30 feet in any direction. In addition, until the
Hit Points 123 (13d10 + 52) start of the beholder’s next turn, the creature is restrained in a
Speed 0 ft., fly 20 ft. telekinetic grip.
Str 10 (+0) Dex 14 (+2) Con 18 (+4) An object weighing 300 pounds or fewer is moved up to 30
Int 17 (+3) Wis 15 (+2) Cha 17 (+3) feet in any direction, unless it is being carried or worn. In that
Saving Throws Int +7, Wis +6, Cha +7 case, the carrier or wearer must contest its Strength against the
Skills Perception +10 beholder’s Charisma. If the beholder wins, the object is moved.
Special Senses darkvision 120 ft. The beholder can also engage in fine manipulation of objects
Immunities cannot be knocked prone with its telekinesis.
Languages Deep Speech, Undercommon 7—Sleep. The creature must succeed on a DC 15 Wisdom saving
Antimagic Cone. The beholder’s central eye has been maimed, throw or fall asleep and remain unconscious for 1 minute, or
so it is unable to use this ability. Healing magic has no effect on until it takes damage or someone takes an action to wake it.
restoring the eye. 8—Petrification. The creature must succeed on a DC 15 Constitution
Hover. Even while incapacitated, if it still has hit points, the saving throw or be restrained and begin to turn to stone. While
beholder continues to hover. restrained in this way, a creature must repeat the saving throw
at the end of each of its turns, becoming permanently petrified
Actions on a failure or ending the effect on a success.
Bite—Melee Attack. +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit: 5
(2d4) piercing damage.
Black Dragon Wyrmling
Eye Rays. The beholder uses three of the following eye rays, but it Medium dragon, chaotic evil
can use each ray only once on its turn. The beholder shoots each Armor Class 13
ray at a target it can see within 150 feet of it. The target must Hit Points 22 (4d8 + 4)
succeed on a DC 15 Dexterity saving throw to avoid a ray and Speed 30 ft., fly 60 ft., swim 30 ft.
its effect. The beholder can use each ray only once on its turn. Str 15 (+2) Dex 10 (+0) Con 13 (+1)
Int 10 (+0) Wis 11 (+0) Cha 13 (+1)
1—Charm. The creature must succeed on a DC 15 Wisdom
Saving Throws Dex +2, Con +3, Wis +1, Cha +3
saving throw or be charmed by the beholder for 1 hour, or
Skills Perception +4, Stealth +2
until the beholder or one of its allies harms the creature.
Special Senses blindsight 10 ft., darkvision 60 ft.
2—Paralysis. The creature must succeed on a DC 15 Wisdom Immunities acid; doesn’t sleep; can’t be paralyzed
saving throw or be paralyzed for 1 minute. The creature can Languages Draconic
repeat the saving throw at the end of each of its turns, ending
Amphibious. The dragon can breathe air and water.
the effect early on a success.
3—Fear. The creature must succeed on a DC 15 Wisdom Actions
saving throw or be frightened for 1 minute. The creature can Bite—Melee Attack. +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit: 4
repeat the saving throw at the end of each of its turns, with (1d4 + 2) piercing damage.
disadvantage if the beholder is within line of sight, ending the
Acid Breath (Recharge 6). The dragon breathes acid in a 15-foot
effect early on a success.
line that is 5 feet wide. Each creature in the line must make a
4—Slow. The creature must succeed on a DC 15 Wisdom DC 11 Dexterity saving throw, taking 11 (2d10) acid damage
saving throw or, for 1 minute, its speed is halved. In addition, on a failed save, or half as much damage on a successful one.
the creature takes a –2 penalty to AC and Dexterity saving
throws, and it can either move or take an action on its turn, not
both. The creature can repeat the saving throw at the end of
each of its turns, ending the effect early on a success.
5—Inflict Wounds. The creature must make a DC 15
Constitution saving throw, taking 36 (8d8) necrotic damage on
a failed save, or half as much damage on a successful one.
79

Black Pudding Choker
Large ooze, unaligned Small aberration, chaotic evil
Armor Class 13
Armor Class 8
Hit Points 85 (10d10 + 30)
Speed 40 ft.
Speed 20 ft., climb 20 ft.
Str 14 (+2) Dex 17 (+3) Con 14 (+2)
Str 16 (+3) Dex 7 (–2) Con 16 (+3)
Int 6 (–2) Wis 10 (+0) Cha 7 (–2)
Int 1 (–5) Wis 6 (–2) Cha 1 (–5)
Saving Throws Str +4, Dex +5, Con +4
Special Senses blind, blindsight 60 ft.
Skills Stealth +10
Immunities acid, cold, lightning, slashing; effects that require
the target to see; doesn’t sleep; can’t be blinded, charmed,
Languages Undercommon
frightened, knocked prone, or fall unconscious
Languages — Actions
Corrosion. Any nonmagical metal or wood weapon that hits Tentacle Arms—Melee Attack. +5 to hit, reach 10 ft., one
the ooze becomes damaged and takes a cumulative –1 penalty creature. The attack automatically hits a creature grappled by
to damage rolls. If a damaged weapon’s penalty drops to –5, the choker. Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) bludgeoning damage and 3 (1d6)
the weapon is destroyed. Repairing a damaged weapon costs piercing damage, the target is grappled and cannot speak, and
half its original cost. Nonmagical metal or wood ammunition the target has disadvantage on checks made to escape. The
that hits the ooze is destroyed. choker can grapple only one creature at a time.
If wood or metal object remains in contact with the pudding
from the start of one of its turns until the start of its next turn,
the object takes 24 acid damage. Clay Golem
Large construct, unaligned
Formless. The pudding is considered to be squeezing only if in a Armor Class 12
space only large enough for a creature three sizes smaller that it is. Hit Points 85 (9d10 + 36)
Spider Climb. The pudding can climb difficult surfaces, Speed 20 ft.
including upside down on ceilings, without needing to make Str 20 (+5) Dex 9 (–1) Con 18 (+4)
an ability check. Int 3 (–4) Wis 8 (–1) Cha 1 (–5)
Actions Immunities lightning, poison, and psychic, as well as damage
Pseudopod—Melee Attack. +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. from nonmagical weapons except those made of adamantine;
Hit: 6 (1d6 + 3) bludgeoning damage plus 13 (3d8) acid damage. dehydration, disease, petrification, poison effects, sleep, starvation,
and suffocation; can’t be charmed, frightened, or paralyzed
Reactions Languages understands Common
Split. If a pudding that is Medium or larger and has 10 hit points Berserk. While the golem is in combat, roll a d10 at the start
or more takes lightning or slashing damage, it takes a reaction of each of its turns. If the result is 1, the golem goes berserk
to split into two new puddings. Each new pudding has hit points until the end of the encounter. On its turn, a berserk golem
equal to one-half the original pudding’s, rounded down. New attacks the nearest creature or some object smaller than itself
puddings are one size smaller than the original pudding. if no creature is within reach, and it deals 5 extra bludgeoning
damage when it hits with a melee attack. Once the golem goes
berserk, it can no longer be controlled by its creator.
Carrion Crawler
Large beast, unaligned Magic Resistance. The golem has advantage on saving throws
Armor Class 12 against magical effects.
Speed 30 ft., climb 30 ft. Actions
Str 14 (+2) Dex 11 (+0) Con 16 (+3) Multiattack. The golem makes two fist attacks.
Int 1 (–5) Wis 12 (+1) Cha 6 (–2)
Fist—Melee Attack. +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit:
16 (2d10 + 5) bludgeoning damage, or 21 (2d10 + 10)
Languages —
bludgeoning damage while the golem is berserk.
Actions Haste (Recharge 6). The golem gains the benefits of a haste
Multiattack. The carrion crawler makes one tentacles attack spell until the end of its next turn.
and one bite attack.
Tentacles—Melee Attack. +8 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit:
The target must succeed on a DC 12 Constitution saving throw
or be paralyzed for 1 minute but can repeat the saving throw
at the end of each of its turns, ending the paralysis early on a
successful save. The duration is cumulative with multiple hits.
This is a poison effect.
(2d4 + 2) piercing damage.
80

Cockatrice Deathlock Wight
Small beast, unaligned Medium undead, lawful evil
Speed 20 ft., fly 40 ft. Speed 30 ft.
Int 1 (–5) Wis 13 (+1) Cha 8 (–1) Int 14 (+2) Wis 13 (+1) Cha 14 (+2)
Special Senses darkvision 60 ft. Special Senses darkvision 60 ft.
Languages — Immunities necrotic, poison; can’t be intoxicated or paralyzed,
unconscious; disease, poison effect; doesn’t need to breathe,
Actions drink, eat, or sleep
Bite—Melee Attack. +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit: 4 Resistances bludgeoning, piercing, and slashing from
(1d4 + 2) piercing damage. nonmagical weapons that aren’t silvered
Languages Common, Infernal
Tail—Melee Attack. +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit: The
target must succeed on a DC 10 Constitution saving throw Spellcasting. The wight is a 4th-level spellcaster that uses
against petrification. On a failed save, the target begins to Intelligence as its magic ability (spell save DC 12). It knows
turn to stone and is restrained. The target is turned to stone the following spells:
permanently at the end of its next turn unless it uses an action Cantrips (At Will)—eldritch blast, prestidigitation
to make a DC 10 Constitution check and succeeds on the check 1st Level (4 Slots)—cause fear, detect magic, magic missile
2nd Level (3 Slots)—mirror image, misty step
Darkenbeast Actions
Medium monstrosity, neutral evil Energy Drain—Melee Attack. +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature.
Armor Class 12 Hit: 6 (1d8 + 2) necrotic damage, and the creature must
Hit Points 22 (5d8) succeed on a DC 13 Constitution saving throw or its hit point
Speed 10 ft., fly 40 ft. maximum is reduced by an amount equal to the damage taken.
Str 14 (+2) Dex 14 (+2) Con 11 (+0) If this effect reduces a creature’s hit point maximum to 0, the
Int 5 (–3) Wis 11 (+0) Cha 4 (–3) creature dies. This reduction to a creature’s hit point maximum
Skills Perception +2, Stealth +4 lasts until the creature finishes a long rest.
Special Senses darkvision 120 ft. A humanoid creature slain by this attack rises 24 hours later
Immunities can’t be charmed as a zombie under the wight’s control.
Languages understands the languages of its creator but
doesn’t speak
Displacer Beast
Light Vulnerability. While in bright light, the darkenbeast
Large monstrosity, lawful evil
has disadvantage on attack rolls. If exposed to sunlight, the
Armor Class 12
darkenbeast reverts to the animal from which it was created.
Radiant Reversion. If the darkenbeast takes radiant damage, Speed 40 ft.
it must make a Constitution saving throw with a DC equal Str 18 (+4) Dex 15 (+2) Con 16 (+3)
to the amount of radiant damage dealt. If the save fails, the Int 3 (–4) Wis 12 (+1) Cha 8 (–1)
darkenbeast reverts to the animal from which it was created. Special Senses darkvision 60 ft.
Languages —
Actions
Avoidance. If the beast is subjected to an effect that allows it to
Flying Multiattack. While flying, the darkenbeast makes one
make a saving throw to take only half damage, it instead take
bite attack and one claw attack.
no damage if it succeeds on the saving throw, and only half
Bite—Melee Attack. +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit: 9 damage if it fails.
(2d6 + 2) slashing damage.
Displacement. The beast projects an illusion that makes it
Claws—Melee Attack. +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit: 7 appear to be standing in a place near its actual location. Attack
(2d4 + 2) slashing damage. rolls made against the beast have disadvantage. If the beast
takes damage, this trait ceases to function until the start of the
Lore beast’s next turn. This trait also ceases to function while the
Darkenbeasts are evil creations of the Red Wizards of Thay. Only beast is incapacitated or has a speed of 0.
the Red Wizards know how to transform common animals into
these fell servitors, and they guard that secret well. Actions
A darkenbeast looks like an emaciated wyvern with black Multiattack. The beast makes two tentacle attacks.
skin. The creature’s eyes glow violet, and its bones are similarly
Tentacle—Melee Attack. : +6 to hit, reach 10 ft., one creature.
luminous enough that they show through the skin. Created by
magically altering a normal animal, a given darkenbeast might
have physical vestiges of the animal it once was.
81

Dragon Turtle Earth Elemental
Gargantuan dragon, neutral Large elemental (earth), neutral
Speed 20 ft., swim 40 ft. Speed 30 ft.
Str 25 (+7) Dex 10 (+0) Con 20 (+5) Str 19 (+4) Dex 8 (–1) Con 16 (+3)
Int 10 (+0) Wis 12 (+1) Cha 12 (+1) Int 5 (–3) Wis 10 (+0) Cha 10 (+0)
Saving Throws Dex +4, Con +9, Wis +5 Special Senses darkvision 60 ft.
Special Senses darkvision 60 ft. Immunities poison; dehydration, disease, petrification, poison
Immunities doesn’t sleep, can’t be paralyzed effects, sleep, starvation, and suffocation; can’t be knocked
Resistances fire prone or paralyzed
Languages Draconic, Primordial (Aquan) Resistances damage from nonmagical weapons
Languages Primordial (Terran)
Aquatic. The dragon can breathe air and water.
Earth Crawl. The elemental can move through stone, dirt, or any
Actions other sort of rock (except metal) with no penalty to its speed.
Multiattack. The dragon makes one bite attack and two claw
Siege Monster. The elemental deals double damage to objects
attacks.
and structures.
(2d12 + 7) piercing damage. Actions
Multiattack. The elemental makes two fist attacks.
Claw—Melee Attack. +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit: 14
(2d6 + 7) slashing damage. Fist—Melee Attack. +6 to hit, reach 10 ft., one creature. Hit: 11
Tail—Melee Attack. +7 to hit, reach 10 ft., one creature. Hit: 21
(3d8 + 8) bludgeoning damage, and the creature must succeed
on a DC 19 Strength saving throw or be pushed up to 10 feet Earth Grue
away from the dragon and knocked prone. Small elemental (earth), neutral evil
Armor Class 12
Steam Breath (Recharge 6). The dragon breathes scalding Hit Points 22 (5d6 + 5)
steam in a 60-foot cone. Each creature in the cone must make Speed 30 ft.
a DC 12 Dexterity saving throw, taking 21 (6d6) fire damage Str 14 (+2) Dex 10 (+0) Con 12 (+1)
on a failed save, or half as much damage on a successful one. Int 7 (–2) Wis 11 (+0) Cha 7 (–2)
Immunities acid, disease, hunger, poison, sleep, suffocation,
Dread Warrior thirst; can’t be paralyzed, petrified, or polymorphed
Medium undead, lawful evil Resistances cold, nonmagical weapons
Armor Class 16 (chain shirt, shield) Languages Primordial
Speed 30 ft. Earth Meld. The grue can move through earth and stone,
Str 16 (+3) Dex 12 (+1) Con 16 (+3) leaving no tunnel, at half speed. A coating of filth is left on
Int 10 (+0) Wis 11 (+0) Cha 10 (+0) the surface the grue enters.
Damage Resistances necrotic Actions
Damage Immunities poison Melee Attack—Claws. +4 to hit (reach 5 ft.; one creature).
Condition Immunities charmed, frightened, intoxicated Hit: 9 (2d6 + 2) slashing damage.
Languages Common
Appearance
Turn Resistance. The warrior has advantage on saving throws The grue can appear as a lump of filth with rocky extrusions,
against Turn Undead. but its preferred form is a creature of earth that looks like a
Undead Fortitude. If the warrior takes damage that reduces it hedgehog with a skull face.
to 0 hit points, it makes a Constitution saving throw with a DC
equal to 5 + the damage taken. If the saving throw succeeds,
the warrior drops to 1 hit point instead.
Actions
Multiattack. The dread warrior makes two attacks, either with
its battleaxe or its javelin.
Melee Attack—Battleaxe. +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature.
Melee or Ranged Attack—Javelin. +6 to hit, reach 5 ft. or range
30 ft./120 ft., one creature. Hit: 6 (1d6 + 3) piercing damage.
82

Efreeti Elder Black Pudding
Large elemental (fire), lawful evil Gargantuan ooze, unaligned
Speed 40 ft., fly 60 ft. Speed 20 ft., climb 20 ft.
Int 16 (+3) Wis 15 (+2) Cha 16 (+3) Int 1 (–5) Wis 6 (–2) Cha 1 (–5)
Saving Throws Int +7, Wis +6, Cha +7 Special Senses blind, blindsight 60 ft.
Special Senses darkvision 120 ft. Immunities acid, cold, lightning, slashing; blinded, charmed,
Immunities fire frightened, prone, unconscious; effects that require the target
Languages Primordial (Ignan) to see; doesn’t sleep
Languages —
Fiery Demise. When the efreeti dies, it disappears in a flash of
fire and a puff of smoke, leaving behind embers and any gear it Amorphous. The pudding is considered to be squeezing only if
was carrying or wearing. in a space only large enough for a creature three sizes smaller
that it is.
Telepathy. The efreeti can communicate telepathically with any
creature within 100 feet that speaks or understands a language. Corrosion. Any nonmagical metal or wood weapon that hits
the ooze becomes damaged and takes a cumulative –1 penalty
Actions to damage rolls. If a damaged weapon’s penalty drops to –5,
Multiattack. The efreeti makes two scimitar attacks. the weapon is destroyed. Repairing a damaged weapon costs
half its original cost. Nonmagical metal or wood ammunition
Scimitar—Melee Attack. +9 to hit, reach 10 ft., one target. Hit:
that hits the ooze is destroyed.
13 (2d6 + 6) slashing damage and 10 (3d6) fire damage.
If wood or metal object remains in contact with the pudding
Smoke Form (Recharge 6). The efreeti polymorphs into a from the start of one of its turns until the start of its next turn,
10-foot-diameter cloud of smoke. In this form, it cannot take the object takes 24 acid damage.Spider Climb. The pudding
actions and can’t be harmed, but it can pass through the can climb difficult surfaces, including upside down on ceilings,
smallest gaps. The efreeti can use an action to end the effect. without needing to make an ability check.
Spellcasting. The efreeti is a 12th-level spellcaster that uses Actions

Intelligence as its spellcasting ability (spell save DC 13). It Multiattack. The pudding takes the attack action and makes
needs to use only somatic and verbal components to cast its one two pseudopod attacks. If it hasn’t used its whole move for
spells. The efreeti knows the following spells: the turn, the pudding can move between attacks
At Will—detect magic, produce flame
1/Day—enlarge, invisibility, polymorph. Pseudopod—Melee Attack. +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature.
1/Month—wish (cannot use for its own gain or benefit.) Hit: 11 (2d6 + 4) bludgeoning damage plus 13 (3d8) acid
damage.
Reactions
Split. If a pudding that is Medium or larger and has 10 hit
points or more takes lightning or slashing damage, it takes a
reaction to split into two new puddings. Each new pudding
has hit points equal to one-half the original pudding’s,
rounded down. New puddings are one size smaller than the
original pudding.
83

Ettercap Fire Grue
Medium monstrosity, neutral evil Small elemental (fire), neutral evil
Speed 30 ft., climb 30 ft. Speed 30 ft.
Int 10 (+1) Wis 10 (+0) Cha 10 (+0) Int 10 (+0) Wis 10 (+0) Cha 8 (–1)
Skills Perception +2, Stealth +4 Special Senses darkvision 120 ft.
Special Senses darkvision 60 ft. Immunities disease, fire, hunger, poison, sleep, suffocation,
Languages — thirst; can’t be paralyzed, petrified, or polymorphed
Resistances damage from nonmagical weapons
Spider Climb. The ettercap can climb on smooth walls and
Languages Primordial
upside down on horizontal surfaces. It ignores movement
restrictions due to webbing, including that from a web spell. Extinguish. At the end of each of the grue’s turns, roll a d20.
On a roll of 11 or higher, the grue vanishes from its current
Actions plane and appears in the Ethereal Plane. At the start of its next
Bite—Melee Attack. +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit: 5 turn, the grue returns to a space within 10 feet of the space
(1d6 + 2) piercing damage, and the target must succeed on the grue vanished from.
a DC 12 Constitution saving throw or take 10 (3d6) poison
damage (half as much damage on a successful save). Actions
Melee Attack—Slam. +4 to hit (reach 5 ft.; one creature).
Web—Ranged Attack (Recharge 5–6). +4 to hit, range 30 ft./60
Hit: 8 (2d4 + 3) fire damage.
ft., one creature. Hit: The target is restrained by webbing. As
an action, the restrained creature can make a DC 11 Strength Appearance
check to escape. The webbing has AC 12, and another creature
The grue can appear as bonfire or a humanoid like a bronze
can deal 5 fire or slashing damage to the webbing to end this
statue come to life, a form it uses to hide in plain sight. Its
effect; if fire damage is used, the restrained creature also takes
preferred form is that of a humanoid upper body, arms, and
the damage.
head suspended on a column of flame. In humanoid form, its
hair is fire, and its face is skull-like with black voids for eyes.
Fire Elemental
Large elemental (fire), neutral
Armor Class 12
Speed 50 ft.
Str 10 (+0) Dex 15 (+2) Con 14 (+2)
Int 6 (–2) Wis 10 (+0) Cha 10 (+0)
Immunities fire, poison; dehydration, disease, petrification,
poison effects, sleep, starvation, and suffocation; can’t be
knocked prone or paralyzed
Resistances damage from nonmagical weapons
Languages Primordial (Ignan)
Checked by Water. The elemental takes 5 cold damage each
time it starts its turn in a body of water of its size or larger. It
cannot willingly cross bodies of water 10 feet wide or wider.
Illumination. The elemental sheds bright light in a 20-foot-radius
sphere. The elemental cannot alter the brightness of its light.
Actions
Touch—Melee Attack. +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit:
10 (3d6) fire damage, and the target must succeed on a DC
13 Dexterity saving throw or catch fire and take 3 (1d6) fire
damage at the start of each of its turns. A creature can use its
action to extinguish the flames, which ends this effect. Any
event that smothers the fire likewise ends the effect.
84

Flesh Golem Claws—Melee Attack. +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 5
Medium construct, neutral (1d6 + 2) slashing damage.
Armor Class 9 Gore—Melee Attack. +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 4
Hit Points 57 (6d8 + 30) (1d4 + 2) bludgeoning damage.
Speed 30 ft.
Str 19 (+4) Dex 9 (–1) Con 20 (+5)
Int 3 (–4) Wis 10 (+0) Cha 1 (–5) Gelatinous Cube
Special Senses darkvision 60 ft. Large ooze, unaligned
Immunities lightning, poison, and psychic damage, as well Armor Class 6
as damage from nonmagical weapons except those made of Hit Points 73 (7d10 + 35)
adamantine; dehydration, disease, petrification, poison effects, Speed 15 ft.
sleep, starvation, and suffocation; can’t be charmed, frightened, Str 14 (+2) Dex 3 (–4) Con 20 (+5)
or paralyzed Int 1 (–5) Wis 10 (+0) Cha 1 (–5)
Languages understands Common Special Senses blind, blindsight 60 ft.
Berserk. While the golem is in combat, roll a d10 at the start Immunities blinded, charmed, frightened, prone, unconscious;
of each of the golem’s turns. If the result is 1, the golem goes effects that require the target to see; doesn’t sleep
berserk until the end of the encounter. On its turn, a berserk Languages —
golem attacks the nearest creature or some object smaller Ooze Cube. The cube takes up its entire 10-foot space. Other
than itself if no creature is within reach, and it deals 5 extra creatures can enter the cube’s space. A creature that enters
bludgeoning damage when it hits with a melee attack. the cube’s space is subjected to the cube’s Engulf and has
The berserk golem’s creator can, if it is within 60 feet of disadvantage on the saving throw.
the golem and can be seen and heard by the golem, calm it by Attacks, spells, and other effects can’t target anything inside
speaking firmly and persuasively, which requires an action and a the cube. An area of effect that includes the cube includes
DC 16 Charisma (Persuasion) check. If the check succeeds, the nothing inside the cube.
golem is no longer berserk, although it may go berserk again. A creature within 5 feet of the cube can take an action to
Lightning Absorption. Whenever the golem would take pull a creature or object out of the cube. Doing so requires a
lightning damage, it instead regains hit points equal to half the successful DC 13 Strength check, and the creature making the
damage dealt. attempt takes 5 (2d4) acid damage.
The cube is large enough to hold only one Large creature or
Magic Resistance. The golem has advantage on saving throws up to four Medium or smaller creatures inside it at a time.
against magical effects.
Transparent. Even when the cube is in plain sight, it takes a
Actions successful DC 15 Wisdom (Perception) check to spot a cube
Multiattack. The golem makes two fist attacks. that has neither moved nor attacked. A creature that tries to
enter the cube ’s space while unaware of the cube is surprised
Fist—Melee Attack. +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit: 13 by the cube.
(2d8 + 4) bludgeoning damage, or 18 (2d8 + 9) bludgeoning
damage while the golem is berserk. Actions
Pseudopod—Melee Attack. +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature.
Hit: 4 (1d4 + 2) bludgeoning damage plus 2 (1d4) acid damage.
Four-Armed Gargoyle
Medium elemental (earth), lawful evil Engulf. The cube moves up to its speed, and while doing so it
Armor Class 15 can enter Large or smaller creatures’ spaces. If the cube enters
Hit Points 45 (6d8 + 18) a creature’s space, the creature must make a DC 14 Strength
Speed 40 ft., fly 60 ft. saving throw.
Str 16 (+3) Dex 14 (+2) Con 16 (+3) If the saving throw succeeds, the creature can choose to
Int 6 (–2) Wis 11 (+0) Cha 7 (–2) be pushed 5 feet back or, if possible, to the side as the cube
Special Senses darkvision 60 ft. moves. In either case, after the creature moves, it remains
Immunities poison, disease, petrification, poison effects; within 5 feet of the cube. A creature that chooses not to be
doesn’t breathe, drink, eat, or sleep pushed suffers the consequences of a failed saving threw.
Resistances bludgeoning, piercing, and slashing from If the saving throw fails, the cube enters the creature’s
nonmagical weapons that aren’t adamantine space, and the creature takes 5 (2d4) acid damage and
Languages Common, Primordial is inside the cube. While inside the cube, the creature is
restrained and takes 5 (2d4) acid damage at the start of each
False Appearance. The gargoyle resembles an inanimate of the cube’s turns. When the cube moves, it pulls with it any
fiendish statue. A creature that can see the gargoyle and creature inside it, and the creature remains inside the cube.
succeeds on a DC 17 Intelligence (Arcana) check ascertains A creature inside the cube can escape by taking an action to
what the gargoyle really is. make a DC 14 Strength check. On a success, the creature can
move out of the cube.
Actions
Multiattack. The gargoyle makes one bite attack, two claws
attacks, and one gore attack.
Bite—Melee Attack. +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d6
+ 2) piercing damage.
85

Ghost Ghoul
Medium undead, chaotic neutral Medium undead, chaotic evil
Hit Points 45 (10d8) Hit Points 18 (4d8)
Int 10 (+0) Wis 12 (+1) Cha 17 (+3) Int 7 (–2) Wis 10 (+0) Cha 6 (–2)
Immunities necrotic, poison; charmed, frightened, grappled, Immunities poison; charmed, intoxicated, unconscious; disease,
intoxicated, paralyzed, prone, restrained, unconscious; poison effects; doesn’t need to breathe, drink, eat, or sleep
dehydration, disease, petrification, poison effects, polymorph; Languages Common
doesn’t breathe, drink, eat, or sleep
Resistances acid, cold, fire, lightning, thunder; bludgeoning, Actions
piercing, and slashing from nonmagical weapons Multiattack. The ghoul makes one bite attack and one claw
Languages Common attack.
Incorporeal Movement. The ghost can move through an object Bite—Melee Attack. +3 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit: 4
or another creature, but can’t stop there. (1d6 + 1) piercing damage.
Actions Claws—Melee Attack. +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit:

4 (1d6 + 1) slashing damage, and a living creature that isn’t
Withering Touch. Melee Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
an elf must succeed on a DC 10 Constitution saving throw or
creature. Hit: 10 (2d6 + 3) necrotic damage.
be paralyzed for 1 minute. The creature can repeat the saving
Etherealness. The ghost enters the Ethereal Plane from the throw at the end of each of its turns, ending the effect early on
Material Plane, or vice versa. a success.
Horrifying Visage. Each creature of the ghost’s choice within
60 feet of it and able to see it must succeed on a DC 15 Giant Centipede
Wisdom saving throw or be frightened for 1 minute. If the
Small beast, unaligned
save fails by 5 or more, a creature frightened in this way is also
Armor Class 12
cursed to age 20 (1d4 × 10) years. A creature can repeat the
Hit Points 3 (1d6)
saving throw at the end of each of its turns, with disadvantage
if the ghost is within line of sight, ending the frightened
Str 5 (–3) Dex 14 (+2) Con 10 (+0)
condition on it early on a success. If a creature’s saving throw
Int 1 (–5) Wis 8 (–1) Cha 3 (–4)
is successful or the effect ends for it, the creature is immune to
Special Senses blindsight 30 ft.
the ghost’s Horrifying Visage for the next 24 hours.
Languages —
If the aging effect isn’t reversed in 24 hours, it is no longer
considered to be a curse. Therefore, it becomes permanent. Actions
Possession (While the Ghost has no Creature Possessed, Bite—Melee Attack. +2 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit:
Recharge 5–6). The ghost chooses a living creature within 5 1 (1d4 – 3) piercing damage, and the creature must succeed
feet of it, and it can choose a creature on the Material Plane on a DC 9 Constitution saving throw or take 2 (1d4) poison
if on the Ethereal Plane. The creature must succeed on a DC damage. If the poison damage reduces a creature to 0 hit
15 Charisma saving throw or become intoxicated. At the end points, the creature is stable but paralyzed for 1d6 hours.
of the creature’s next turn, it can repeat the saving throw. On
a failure, for the next 24 hours, the ghost has the creature
possessed. Giant Crab
While possessing a creature, the ghost vanishes into the Medium beast, unaligned
creature. Except against Turn Undead, the possessing ghost Armor Class 13
has total cover on all sides. The ghost controls the possessed Hit Points 13 (3d8)
creature. While doing so, the ghost retains its alignment, Speed 30 ft., swim 30 ft.
Intelligence, Wisdom, Charisma but otherwise uses the Str 13 (+1) Dex 15 (+2) Con 11 (+0)
possessed creature’s statistics. Int 1 (–5) Wis 9 (–1) Cha 3 (–4)
A few situations can end the possession. If the ghost is Skills Stealth +4
turned, the possession ends. A protection from evil spell can Special Senses blindsight 30 ft.
target the possessed creature, allowing the creature can make Languages —
another saving throw against being possessed. On a success,
Aquatic. The crab can breathe air and water.
the possession ends. If the possessed creature drops to 0 hit
points or dies, the possession ends. The possession ends if the Actions
ghost moves out of the creature. When the possession ends,
the ghost reappears in a space of its choice within 5 feet of the
(1d6 + 1) bludgeoning damage, and the creature is grappled.
formerly possessed creature.
The crab can have only one creature grappled at a time, but
If a creature’s saving throw is successful or the effect ends
the crab has advantage on attack rolls against that creature.
for it, the creature is immune to the ghost’s Possession for the
next 24 hours.
86

Giant Fire Beetle Gibbering Mouther
Small beast, unaligned Medium aberration, neutral
Hit Points 3 (1d6) Hit Points 67 (9d8 + 27)
Speed 30 ft. Speed 10 ft., swim 20 ft.
Str 8 (–1) Dex 10 (+0) Con 10 (+0) Str 10 (+0) Dex 8 (–1) Con 16 (+3)
Int 1 (–5) Wis 8 (–1) Cha 3 (–4) Int 3 (–4) Wis 10 (+0) Cha 6 (–2)
Special Senses blindsight 30 ft. Special Senses darkvision 60 ft.
Languages — Immunities can’t be knocked prone
Languages —
Illumination. The beetle sheds bright light in a 10-foot radius
and dim light in a 20-foot radius. Aberrant Ground. The ground in a 10-foot radius around the
mouther becomes dough-like and is difficult terrain. Each
Actions creature that starts its turn in the area must succeed on a DC
Bite—Melee Attack. +1 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit: 2 10 Strength saving throw or be unable to move until the start
(1d6 – 1) slashing damage. of its next turn.
Gibbering. When agitated or able to see anything edible,
Giant Viper Snake provided it isn’t incapacitated, the mouther babbles constantly
and incoherently. Each creature that starts its turn within
Medium beast, unaligned
10 feet of and able to hear the mouther must succeed on
Armor Class 12
a DC 10 Wisdom saving throw. On a failure, the creature
can’t take reactions until the start of its next turn and rolls
Speed 30 ft., swim 30 ft.
a d8 to determine what it does during its turn. On a 1 to 4,
Str 10 (+0) Dex 15 (+2) Con 13 (+1)
the creature does nothing. On a 5 or 6, the creature takes
Int 2 (–4) Wis 10 (+0) Cha 3 (–4)
no action but uses all its movement to move in a randomly
Skills Perception +2
determined direction. On a 7 or 8, the creature makes a melee
attack against a randomly determined creature within its reach
Languages —
or, if it can’t make such a melee attack, does nothing.
Actions
Actions
Bite—Melee Weapon Attack. +4 to hit, reach 10 ft., one
Multiattack. The gibbering mouther makes one bite attack
creature. Hit: 5 (2d4) piercing damage, and the creature must
and, if it can, uses its Blinding Spittle.
succeed on a DC 11 Constitution saving throw or take 10
(3d6) poison damage.
Bites. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature.
Hit: 10 (3d6) piercing damage, or 21 (6d6) piercing damage
Giant Spider if the creature is prone, and the target must succeed on a DC
12 Strength saving throw or be knocked prone. A creature
Large beast, unaligned
that dies due to this damage has its body destroyed as it is
Armor Class 12
absorbed into the mouther.
Blinding Spittle (Recharge 5–6). The mouther spits a chemical
Str 14 (+2) Dex 15 (+2) Con 12 (+1)
glob at a point it can see within 15 feet of it. The glob explodes
Int 2 (–4) Wis 11 (+0) Cha 4 (–3)
in a blinding flash of light on impact. Each creature within 5
Skills Stealth +4
feet of the flash must succeed on a DC 15 Wisdom saving
Special Senses blindsight 20 ft., darkvision 60 ft.
throw or be blinded until the end of the mouther’s next turn.
Languages —
Spider Climb. The spider can climb difficult surfaces, including
upside down on ceilings, without needing to make an ability
check.
Web Walker. The spider ignores movement restrictions due to
webbing.
Actions
Bite—Melee Attack. : +3 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit: 6 (1d8
+ 2) piercing damage, and the creature must succeed on a DC
10 Constitution saving throw or take 7 (2d6) poison damage.
Web—Ranged Attack (Recharge 5–6). +4 to hit, range 30 ft./60
ft., one creature. Hit: The creature is restrained by webbing. As
an action, the restrained creature can make a DC 11 Strength
check, escaping from the webbing on a success. The webbing
is an object that can also be attacked (AC 10; immune to
bludgeoning, poison, psychic, and radiant damage; 5 hp),
ending the effect if it is destroyed.
87

Glabrezu Gorgon
Large fiend (demon), chaotic evil Large monstrosity, unaligned
Speed 40 ft. Speed 40 ft.
Saving Throws Str +10, Con +8, Wis +7, Cha +7 Skills Perception +4
Special Senses true seeing 120 ft. Special Senses darkvision 60 ft.
Immunities poison; disease, poison effects Immunities petrification
Resistances cold, fire, lightning; bludgeoning, piercing, and Languages —
slashing from nonmagical weapons
Trample. If the gorgon moves at least 20 feet straight toward
Languages Abyssal
a target right before hitting it with a gore attack, the target
Magic Resistance. The glabrezu has advantage on saving throws must succeed on a DC 17 Strength saving throw or be knocked
against magical effects. prone. If the target is prone, the gorgon can take a bonus
action to make one hoof attack against it.
Spellcasting. The glabrezu is an 11th-level spellcaster that uses
Charisma as its spellcasting ability (spell save DC 15, +7 to hit). Actions
It needs to use only somatic and verbal components to cast its
Gore—Melee Attack. +8 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 16
spells. The glabrezu knows the following spells:
At Will—darkness, detect magic, dispel magic
1/Day Each—confusion, fly, power word stun Hooves—Melee Attack. +8 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 16
Telepathy. The glabrezu can communicate telepathically
with any creature within 100 feet of it that can understand a Petrifying Breath (Recharge 6). The gorgon exhales petrifying
language. gas in a 30-foot cone. Each creature in the area must succeed
on a DC 16 Constitution saving throw. On a failed save, the
Actions creature is restrained and begins to turn to stone. While
Multiattack. The glabrezu makes two pincer attacks and casts restrained in this way, a creature must repeat the saving throw
one spell, or it makes two pincer attacks and two fist attacks. at the end of its next turn, becoming permanently petrified on
a failure or ending the effect on a success.
Pincer—Melee Attack. +9 to hit, reach 10 ft., one creature. Hit:
17 (2d10 + 6) piercing damage, and the creature is grappled
and restrained while grappled. The glabrezu can have up to Gray Ooze
two creatures grappled at a time, one in each of its two pincers. Medium ooze, unaligned
While using a pincer to grapple in this way, the glabrezu can Armor Class 8
use the pincer only against the grappled creature. Hit Points 22 (3d8 + 9)
Speed 10 ft.
Fist—Melee Attack. +9 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit: 11 Str 12 (+1) Dex 6 (–2) Con 16 (+3)
(2d4 + 6) bludgeoning damage. Int 1 (–5) Wis 6 (–2) Cha 2 (–4)
Special Senses blind, blindsight 60 ft
Immunities blinded, charmed, frightened, prone, unconscious;
Gnoll effects that require the target to see; doesn’t sleep
Medium humanoid (gnoll), chaotic evil Resistances acid, cold, fire
Armor Class 15 (hide, shield); 13 while using longbow (no Languages —
shield)
Hit Points 13 (3d8) Amorphous. The ooze can move through a space as narrow as 1
Speed 30 ft. inch wide without squeezing.
Str 14 (+2) Dex 12 (+1) Con 11 (+0)
Corrode Metal. Any nonmagical weapon made of metal that
Int 7 (–2) Wis 10 (+0) Cha 8 (–1)
hits the ooze corrodes, taking a permanent and cumulative –1
penalty to damage rolls. If its penalty drops to –5, the weapon is
Languages Gnoll
destroyed. Nonmagical ammunition made of metal that hits the
Actions ooze is destroyed.
The ooze dissolves through 2-inch-thick, nonmagical metal in
Bite—Melee Attack. +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature.
1 round.
False Appearance. The ooze resembles wet rock. A creature that
Spear—Melee or Ranged Attack. +4 to hit, reach 5 ft. or range
can see the ooze and succeeds on a DC 15 Intelligence (Nature)
30 ft./120 ft., one creature. Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) piercing damage.
check ascertains what the ooze really is.
Longbow—Ranged Attack. +4 to hit, range 150 ft./600 ft., one
creature. Hit: 6 (1d8 + 2) piercing damage. Actions
Pseudopod —Melee Attack. +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature.
Reactions Hit: 3 (1d6) bludgeoning damage plus 7 (2d6) acid damage.
Bloody Rampage. When a hostile creature drops to 0 hit points
within 10 feet of it, the gnoll makes a melee attack with
disadvantage.
88

Grell Helmed Horror
Medium aberration, neutral evil Medium construct, neutral
Armor Class 12 Armor Class 20 (plate, shield)
Speed 10 ft., fly 30 ft. Speed 30 ft., fly 30 ft.
Int 12 (+1) Wis 11 (+0) Cha 9 (–1) Int 10 (+0) Wis 10 (+0) Cha 10 (+0)
Skills Stealth +8 Skills Perception +3
Special Senses blind, blindsight 60 ft. Special Senses blindsight 60 ft.
Immunities lightning; blinded, prone; effects that require the Immunities force damage from magic missile spells, necrotic,
target to see poison; blinded, charmed, deafened, frightened, intoxicated,
Languages Grell paralyzed, stunned, unconscious; dehydration, disease, effects
that require the target to see, petrification, poison effects,
Hover. The grell hovers as long as it is alive.
polymorph; doesn’t breathe, drink, eat, or sleep
Actions Resistances cold; bludgeoning, piercing, and slashing from
nonmagical weapons that aren’t adamantine
Multiattack. The grell makes two attacks, one with its tentacles
Languages understsands Common
and one with its beak.
Magic Resistance. The horror has advantage on saving throws
Tentacles. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 10 ft., one against magical effects.
creature. Hit: 7 (1d10 + 2) piercing damage, and the target
Spell Immunity. The horror is immune to three specific spells
is grappled. Until this grapple ends, the target is restrained,
chosen by its creator. Typical immunities include fireball, heat
and the grell can’t use its tentacles on another target. In
metal, and lightning bolt.
addition, the creature must succeed on a DC 12 Constitution
saving throw or be poisoned for 1 minute and paralyzed while Actions
poisoned in this way. The creature can repeat the saving throw
Multiattack. The helmed horror makes two longsword attacks.
at the end of each of its turns, ending the effect early on a
success. Longsword—Melee Attack. +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature.
Beak. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature.
Hezrou
Large fiend (demon), chaotic evil
Grick Armor Class 14
Medium monstrosity, neutral Hit Points 85 (9d10 + 36)
Armor Class 12 Speed 30 ft.
Hit Points 9 (2d8) Special Senses darkvision 120 ft.
Speed 30 ft., climb 30 ft. Str 19 (+4) Dex 17 (+3) Con 18 (+4)
Str 14 (+2) Dex 14 (+2) Con 11 (+0) Int 5 (–3) Wis 12 (+1) Cha 13 (+1)
Int 3 (–4) Wis 14 (+2) Cha 5 (–3) Saving Throws Str +7, Con +6, Wis +4, Cha +4
Resistance bludgeoning, piercing, and slashing damage from Immunities poison; disease, poison effects
nonmagical weapons Resistances cold, fire, lightning; bludgeoning, piercing, and
Languages — slashing from nonmagical weapons
Languages Abyssal
Camouflage. The grick has advantage on Dexterity (Stealth)
checks made to hide in rocky terrain. Stench. Any creature that starts its turn within 10 feet of the
hezrou must succeed on a DC 15 Constitution saving throw
Actions against poison or have disadvantage on attack rolls and ability
Multiattack. The grick makes one tentacle attack, and if that checks until the start of its next turn. On a successful saving throw,
attack hits, one bite attack against the same target. the creature is immune to the hezrou’s Stench for 24 hours.
Tentacles—Melee Attack. +3 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit: Magic Resistance. The hezrou has advantage on saving throws
9 (2d6 + 2) slashing damage. against magical effects.
Bite—Melee Attack. +3 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit: 5 Telepathy. The hezrou can communicate telepathically with
(1d6 + 2) piercing damage. any creature within 100 feet of it that can understand a
language.
Actions
Multiattack. The hezrou makes one bite attack and two claw
attacks.
Claw—Melee Attack. : +8 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit: 8
89

Hook Horror Iron Golem
Large monstrosity, neutral Large construct, unaligned
Speed 20 ft., climb 20 ft. Speed 20 ft.
Int 6 (–2) Wis 12 (+1) Cha 7 (–2) Int 3 (–4) Wis 11 (+0) Cha 1 (–5)
Skills Perception +4 Special Senses darkvision 120 ft.
Special Senses darkvision 10 ft., blindsight 60 ft. Immunities lightning, poison, and psychic damage, as well
Languages — as damage from nonmagical weapons except those made of
adamantine; dehydration, disease, petrification, poison effects,
Echolocation. While deafened, the horror can’t use its
sleep, starvation, and suffocation; can’t be charmed, frightened,
blindsight.
or paralyzed
Keen Hearing. When using its sense of hearing, the horror has Languages understands Common
advantage on Wisdom (Perception) checks.
Magic Resistance. The golem has advantage on saving throws
Actions against magical effects.
Multiattack. The horror makes two hook attacks. Actions
Hook—Melee Attack. +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit: 11 Multiattack. The golem makes one fist attack and one iron
(2d6 + 4) piercing damage. sword attack.
Fist—Melee Attack. +8 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature.
Hunter Shark Hit: 25 (4d8 + 7) bludgeoning damage.
Large beast, unaligned
Iron Sword—Melee Attack. +8 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature.
Armor Class 11
Speed 0 ft., swim 40 ft. Poison Breath (Recharge 6). The golem breathes poisonous
Str 18 (+4) Dex 13 (+1) Con 13 (+1) gas in a 15-foot cone. Each target must succeed on a DC 15
Int 1 (–5) Wis 10 (+0) Cha 4 (–3) Constitution saving throw or take 35 (10d6) poison damage
Skills Perception +3 (half as much damage on a successful save).
Languages —
Water Breathing. The shark can breathe only while underwater.
Actions
90

Kraken Simulacrum Kuo-toa
Huge monstrosity, chaotic evil Medium humanoid (kuo-toa), chaotic evil
Armor Class 15 Armor Class 12 (shield)
Speed 5 ft., swim 90 ft. Speed 30 ft., swim 30 ft.
Saving Throws Str +12, Con +10, Int +7, Wis +9, Cha +9 Skills Perception +7
Special Senses true seeing120 ft. Special Senses darkvision 120 ft.
Immunities lightning and thunder damage, and damage Immunities poison damage and poison effects; can’t be
from nonmagical weapons; polymorph effects, sleep; can’t be paralyzed
frightened or paralyzed Resistances lightning
Languages understands Thayan Languages Undercommon
Aquatic. The kraken can breathe underwater, and being Light Sensitivity. While in sunlight, the kuo-toa has
underwater imposes no penalty on its attack rolls or ability disadvantage on attack rolls.
checks.
Otherworldly Perception. The kuo-toa can sense the presence
Siege Monster. The kraken deals double damage to objects of invisible and Ethereal creatures within 30 feet of it, but
and structures. cannot pinpoint their exact locations unless they are in motion.
Telepathy. The kraken can communicate telepathically with any Slippery Hide. An unarmored kuo-toa that is grappled gains
creature within 100 feet of it that can understand a language. advantage on checks made to escape. An unarmored kuo-toa
that is restrained gains advantage on checks and saving throws
Actions to end the condition.
Multiattack. The kraken makes three melee attacks, each of
which it can replace with one use of Fling. Actions
Javelin—Melee and Ranged Attack. +2 to hit, reach 5 ft. or
Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +11 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target.
range 30 ft/120 ft., one creature. Hit: 3 (1d6) piercing damage.
Net. The kuo-toa targets a point in space up to 20 feet away.
Tentacle. Melee Weapon Attack: +11 to hit, reach 30 ft., one
Each Large or smaller creature within 5 feet of that point must
target. Hit: 20 (3d6 + 10) bludgeoning damage, and the target
succeed on a DC 10 Dexterity saving throw or be restrained by
is grappled. Until this grapple ends, the target is restrained. The
the net. A creature can break free of the net by using its action
kraken has ten tentacles, each of which can grapple only one
to make a DC 10 Strength check or by dealing 5 slashing
target.
damage to the net.
Fling. One object held or creature grappled by the kraken’s
tentacles is thrown up to 60 feet away from the kraken and Reactions
knocked prone. If a thrown target strikes an object, such as a Sticky Shield. When a creature misses the kuo-toa with
wall or floor, it takes 3 (1d6) bludgeoning damage for every 10 a melee attack, the kuo-toa uses its reaction to catch the
feet it was thrown. If the target is thrown at another creature, attacking weapon with its sticky shield. The attacking creature
that target must succeed on a DC 15 Dexterity saving throw or and the kuo-toa engage in a Strength contest; if the kuo-toa
take the same damage and be knocked prone. wins the contest, the weapon is wrested from its wielder’s grip
and stuck to the kuo-toa’s shield.
Lightning Storm. The kraken creates three bolts of lightning, Pulling a weapon free of the shield requires an action and is
each of which can strike a target within 150 feet of the kraken. resolved as a Strength contest (see above).
A target must make a DC 20 Dexterity saving throw, taking
22 (4d10) lightning damage on a failed save, or half as much
damage on a successful one.
91

Leucrotta Phylactery Rejuvenation. Provided it has a phylactery, a
Large monstrosity, chaotic evil destroyed lich gains a new body in 1d10 days, regaining all its
Armor Class 13 hit points and becoming active again. The new body appears
Hit Points 45 (6d10 + 12) within 5 feet of the phylactery.
Speed 50 ft. Spellcasting. The lich is an 18th-level wizard that uses
Str 17 (+3) Dex 14 (+2) Con 15 (+2) Intelligence as its spellcasting ability (spell save DC 18, +10 to
Int 9 (–1) Wis 12 (+1) Cha 6 (–2) hit). The lich has the following spells prepared:
Skills Perception +3 Cantrips—eldritch blast, mage hand, prestidigitation
Languages Common 1st level (4 Slots)—magic missile, shield, thunderwave
False Tracks. It takes a successful DC 20 Intelligence (Nature) 2nd level (3 Slots)—detect thoughts, invisibility, mirror image
check to tell a leucrotta’s tracks from those of a large deer. 3rd level (3 Slots)—counterspell, fireball
4th level (3 Slots)—blight, dimension door
Keen Smell. When using its sense of smell, the leucrotta has 5th level (3 Slots)—cloudkill, scrying
advantage on Wisdom (Perception) checks.
Turn Resistance. The lich has advantage on saving throws
Mimicry. The leucrotta can mimic sounds it has heard, such as against Turn Undead.
a person crying out in pain. A creature that hears the sounds
can tell they are imitations with a successful DC 15 Wisdom Actions
(Perception) check. Paralyzing Touch—Melee Attack. +8 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
creature. Hit: 10 (3d6) cold damage, and the creature must
Actions succeed on a DC 15 Constitution saving throw or become
Bite—Melee Attack. +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. paralyzed for 1 minute and have its hit point maximum
Hit: 10 (2d6 + 3) slashing damage. If the leucrotta scores a reduced by an amount equal to the necrotic damage taken.
critical hit, it rolls the damage dice thrice instead of twice. If this effect reduces a creature’s hit point maximum to 0, the
creature dies.
Hooves—Melee Attack. +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature.
A creature can repeat the saving throw at the end of each
of its turns, ending the paralyzed condition on it early on a
Kicking Retreat. Whenever the leucrotta takes the disengage success. The reduction to a creature’s hit point maximum lasts
action, it can take a bonus action to make a hoof attack until the creature finishes a long rest.
before moving.
Legendary Actions
Appearance The lich gains three legendary actions at the end of each of its
A leucrotta stands 7 feet tall at the shoulder, and its tan body, turns. It can take these actions at any time between then and
which gradually darkens to black at the head, can be up to the start of its next turn, when any untaken legendary actions
9 feet long. The creature’s body resembles that of a muscular are lost. The lich can take its legendary actions in the following
deer, it has a tufted tail and cloven hooves, and its head is like ways, spending the specified number of actions:
that of a badger. Instead of teeth, the leucrotta has several
• 3 Actions. The lich disrupts life force around it. Each
serrated bone ridges, and the monster’s eyes glow with red
creature within 20 feet of the lich must make a DC 15
light when it is fighting. The smell of death hangs in the air
Constitution saving throw, taking 10 (3d6) necrotic damage on
around a leucrotta, and its breath is especially foul.
a failed save, or half as much damage on a successful one.
• 2 Actions. The lich fixes its gaze on one creature it can see
Lich within 10 feet of it. The creature must succeed on a DC 15
Medium undead, neutral evil Wisdom saving throw or become frightened for 1 minute. A
Armor Class 16 creature can repeat the saving throw at the end of each of
Hit Points 135 (18d8 + 54) its turns, with disadvantage if the lich is within line of sight,
Speed 30 ft. ending the effect on it early on a success. If a creature’s saving
Str 11 (+0) Dex 16 (+3) Con 16 (+3) throw is successful or the effect ends for it, the creature is
Int 20 (+5) Wis 14 (+2) Cha 13 (+1) immune to the lich’s gaze for the next 24 hours.
Saving Throws Int +11, Wis +8
Skills Arcana +10, Insight +7, Perception +7 • 1 Action (1/Round). The lich casts a cantrip.
Special Senses true seeing 120 ft. • 1 Action (1/round). The lich makes one touch attack.
Resistances cold, lightning, necrotic; bludgeoning, piercing,
and slashing from nonmagical weapons
Immunities poison; charmed, frightened, intoxicated,
paralyzed, unconscious; disease, poison effects, polymorph; any
effect targets a creature’s soul; doesn’t need to breathe, drink,
eat, or sleep
Languages Abyssal, Common, Draconic, Infernal, Primordial
Legendary Resistance (3/Day). If the lich fails a saving throw, it
can choose to succeed instead.
92

Mane Ochre Jelly
Small fiend (demon), chaotic evil Large ooze, unaligned
Speed 20 ft. Speed 10 ft., climb 10 ft.
Int 3 (–4) Wis 8 (–1) Cha 4 (–3) Int 1 (–5) Wis 6 (–2) Cha 1 (–5)
Immunities poison; charmed, frightened; disease, poison Special Senses blind, blindsight 60 ft.
effects, sleep Immunities lightning, slashing; blinded, charmed, frightened,
Resistances cold, fire, lightning prone, unconscious; effects that require the target to see;
Languages understands Abyssal but doesn’t speak doesn’t sleep
Resistances acid
Actions Languages —
Multiattack. The mane makes one bite attack and one claw
Amorphous. The jelly is considered to be squeezing only if in a
attack.
space only large enough for a creature three sizes smaller that
Bite—Melee Attack. : +2 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit: 2 it is.
(1d4) piercing damage.
Spider Climb. The jelly can climb difficult surfaces, including upside
Claws—Melee Attack. +2 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit: 2 down on ceilings, without needing to make an ability check.
(1d4) slashing damage.
Actions
Pseudopod—Melee Attack. +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature.
Merrow Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) bludgeoning damage plus 3 (1d6) acid damage.
Large monstrosity, chaotic evil
Armor Class 13 Reactions
Hit Points 52 (7d10 + 14) Split. If a jelly that is Medium or larger and has 10 hit points or
Speed 10 ft., swim 60 ft. more takes lightning or slashing damage, it takes a reaction to
Str 19 (+4) Dex 10 (+0) Con 14 (+2) split into two new jellies. Each new jelly has hit points equal to
Int 10 (+0) Wis 11 (+0) Cha 11 (+0) one-half the original jelly’s, rounded down. New jellies are one
Special Senses darkvision 60 ft. size smaller than the original jelly.
Languages Giant, Primordial (Aquan)
Aquatic. The merrow can breathe underwater, and being Ogre Zombie
underwater imposes no penalty on its attack rolls or ability checks.
Large undead, neutral evil
Actions Armor Class 9 (hide)
Claws—Melee Attack. +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature.
Speed 30 ft.
Str 19 (+4) Dex 6 (–2) Con 15 (+2)
Harpoon—Melee or Ranged Attack. +5 to hit, reach 5 ft. or Int 5 (–3) Wis 6 (–2) Cha 5 (–3)
range 20 ft., one creature. Hit: 11 (2d6 + 4) piercing damage, Special Senses darkvision 60 ft.
and if the target is more than 5 feet away from the merrow, Immunities poison; intoxicated, unconscious; dehydration,
the merrow can pull the target within 5 feet of it if if beats disease, starvation, and suffocation
the target in a Strength contest. Languages understands Common and Giant
Javelin—Melee or Ranged Attack. +5 to hit, reach 5 ft. or range Zombie Fortitude. If the zombie takes damage that reduces it
30 ft./120 ft., one creature. Hit: 11 (2d6 + 4) piercing damage. to 0 hit points, it makes a Constitution saving throw with a DC
the zombie drops to 1 hit point instead.
Actions
Greatclub—Melee Attack. +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature.
Javelin—Ranged Attack. +5 to hit, range 30 ft./120 ft., one
creature. Hit: 11 (2d6 + 4) piercing damage.
93

Ooze Master Otyugh
Gargantuan undead, chaotic evil Large aberration, neutral
Str 11 (+0) Dex 1 (–5) Con 16 (+3) Str 16 (+3) Dex 11 (+0) Con 21 (+5)
Int 17 (+3) Wis 8 (–1) Cha 12 (+1) Int 6 (–2) Wis 13 (+1) Cha 6 (–2)
Special Senses blindsight 60 ft. Special Senses darkvision 60 ft.
Immunities disease, petrification, poison, sleep, starvation, Immunities disease
suffocation, thirst; can’t be blinded, frightened, forced to move, Languages —
or knocked prone
Grappler. Against any creature grappled by it, the otyugh has
Resistances acid, cold, fire
advantage on attack rolls.
Languages Common, Thayan
Limited Telepathy. The otyugh can communicate simple ideas
Instinctive Attacker. The Ooze Master can take an extra action
and images telepathically with any creature within 100 feet of
on his turn to attack.
it that can understand a language.
Spellcasting. Ooze Master is an 8th-level spellcaster who uses
Intelligence as his magic ability (spell save DC 15). He knows Actions
the following spells: Multiattack. The otyugh makes one bite attack and two
Cantrip (At Will)—eldritch blast tentacle attacks
1st Level (4 Slots)—charm person, magic missile, sleep
2nd Level (3 Slots)—detect thoughts, Melf’s acid arrow, suggestion
3rd Level (3 Slots)—fear, slow
4th Level (3 Slots)—confusion Tentacle—Melee Attack. +6 to hit, reach 10 ft., one creature.
Hit: 6 (1d6 + 3) bludgeoning damage, and the creature is
Actions grappled. The otyugh has two tentacles, so it can have up to
Caustic Touch—Melee Attack. +6 to hit, reach 15 ft., one creature. two creatures grappled at a time. While using a tentacle to
Hit: 7 (2d6) bludgeoning damage plus 7 (2d6) acid damage. grapple a creature, the otyugh can use the tentacle only against
the grappled creature.
Reactions
Instinctive Charm. When a creature the Ooze Master can sense Tentacle Slam. The otyugh slams creatures grappled by it into
within 50 feet of him attacks him, he can use his reaction each other or a solid surface. Each creature must make a DC
to force the attacker to succeed on a DC 15 Wisdom saving 14 Strength saving throw, taking 8 (1d8 + 4) bludgeoning
throw or target the creature closest to it other than the Ooze damage and becoming stunned until the end of the otyugh’s
Master. The attacker chooses among valid targets, wasting the next turn on a failed save. On a successful save, the target takes
attack if no targets are in range. half the bludgeoning damage and isn’t stunned.
Orc
Medium humanoid (orc), chaotic evil
Armor Class 12 (hide)
Speed 30 ft.
Str 14 (+2) Dex 10 (+0) Con 12 (+1)
Int 7 (–2) Wis 11 (+0) Cha 10 (+0)
Languages Common, Orc
Relentless. If the orc takes damage that reduces it to 0 hit points,
it makes a Constitution saving throw with a DC equal to 5 + the
damage taken. If the saving throw succeeds, the orc drops to 1
hit point instead. If the orc has only 1 hit point at the end of its
next turn, it drops to 0 hit points.
Actions
Greataxe—Melee Attack. +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit:
6 (1d8 + 2) slashing damage or, if used in two hands, 7 (1d10
+ 2) slashing damage.
Shortbow—Ranged Attack. +4 to hit, range 30 ft./120 ft., one
creature. Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) piercing damage.
94

Owlbear Pit Fiend
Large monstrosity, unaligned Large fiend (devil), lawful evil
Speed 40 ft. Speed 30 ft., fly 90 ft.
Int 3 (–4) Wis 12 (+1) Cha 7 (–2) Int 22 (+6) Wis 18 (+4) Cha 24 (+7)
Skills Perception +4 Saving Throws Dex +7, Con +11, Wis +10
Special Senses darkvision 60 ft. Special Senses true seeing 120 ft.
Languages — Immunities fire, poison; disease, poison effects, sleep
Resistances cold; bludgeoning, piercing, and slashing from
Grappler. Against any creature grappled by it, the owlbear has
nonmagical weapons that aren’t silvered
advantage on attack rolls.
Keen Sight and Smell. When using its sense of sight or smell,
Fear Aura. Unless the fiend is incapacitated, any creature
the owlbear has advantage on Wisdom (Perception) checks.
that isn’t the fiend’s ally and starts its turn within 20 feet of
Actions the fiend must succeed on a DC 21 Wisdom saving throw or
be frightened for 1 minute. A creature can repeat the saving
Multiattack. The owlbear makes one claw attack and one
throw at the end of each of its turns, with disadvantage if the
beak attack.
fiend is within line of sight, ending the effect on it early on a
Claws—Melee Attack. +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit: success. If a creature’s saving throw is successful or the effect
12 (2d6 + 5) slashing damage, and the creature is grappled. ends for it, the creature is immune to the fiend’s Fear Aura for
While grappling in this way, the owlbear can claw only the the next 24 hours.
grappled creature.
Magic Resistance. The fiend has advantage on saving throws
Beak—Melee Attack. +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit: 9 against magical effects.
Spellcasting. The fiend is a 19th-level spellcaster that uses
Charisma as its spellcasting ability (spell save DC 21, +13 to
Peryton hit). It needs to use only somatic and verbal components to
cast its spells. The fiend knows the following spells:
Medium monstrosity, chaotic evil
At Will—detect magic, fireball (12d6 fire damage)
Armor Class 11
3/Day Each—wall of fire (10d8 fire damage), mass hold monster
Speed 20 ft., fly 60 ft.
Telepathy. The fiend can communicate telepathically with any
Str 16 (+3) Dex 12 (+1) Con 15 (+2)
Int 9 (–1) Wis 10 (+0) Cha 10 (+0)
Skills Perception +7 Actions
Immunities damage from nonmagical weapons
Multiattack. The fiend makes one bite attack, one claw attack,
Languages understands Common and Elvish
one tail attack, and one mace attack.
Flyby. The peryton doesn’t provoke opportunity attacks when
it flies out of a hostile creature’s reach.
(2d6 + 8) piercing damage, and the creature must succeed
Keen Sight. When using its sense of sight, the peryton has on a DC 15 Constitution saving throw or take 5 (2d4) poison
advantage on Wisdom (Perception) checks. damage, cumulative with multiple bites, at the start of each
of its turns. While taking this poison damage, the creature has
Actions disadvantage on attack rolls, ability checks, and saving throws,
Claws—Melee Attack. +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit: and it takes a 15-foot penalty to its speed.
10 (2d6 + 3) piercing damage.
Gore—Melee Attack. +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit: 10 (1d8 + 8) slashing damage.
Constricting Tail—Melee Attack. +9 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
Dive. The peryton flies a minimum distance of 30 feet and creature. Hit: 13 (1d10 + 8) bludgeoning damage, and the
makes one claws attack with advantage against a creature at creature is grappled and restrained while grappled. While
a lower altitude. On a hit, the peryton makes one gore attack grappling in this way, the fiend can use its tail attack only on
against the same target. the grappled creature.
Mace—Melee Attack. +11 to hit, reach 10 ft., one creature. Hit:
15 (2d6 + 8) bludgeoning damage.
95

Predatory Fish Quasit
Medium beast, unaligned Tiny fiend (demon, shapechanger), chaotic evil
Hit Points 26 (4d8 + 8) Hit Points 7 (3d4)
Speed 0 ft., swim 60 ft. Speed 40 ft. (in bat form, 10 ft.), (in bat form, fly 40 ft.), (in
Str 14 (+2) Dex 13 (+1) Con 15 (+2) centipede form, climb 40 ft.), (in toad form, swim 40 ft.)
Int 1 (–5) Wis 8 (–1) Cha 5 (–3) Str 5 (–3) Dex 17 (+3) Con 10 (+0)
Languages — Int 10 (+0) Wis 10 (+0) Cha 10 (+0)
Aquatic. The fish can breathe underwater, and being underwater
Immunities poison; disease, poison effects
imposes no penalty on its attack rolls or ability checks.
Resistances cold, fire, lightning; bludgeoning, piercing, and
Blood Frenzy +5. Whenever the fish is within 100 feet of a slashing from nonmagical weapons
wounded creature that has taken piercing or slashing damage, Languages Abyssal, Common
the fish gains a +5 bonus to melee damage rolls.
Magic Resistance. The quasit has advantage on saving throws
Pack Tactics. The fish has advantage on any attack roll it makes against magical effects.
against a creature that is within 5 feet of at least one of the
fish’s friends who isn’t incapacitated. Actions
Claws—Melee Attack. +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit:
Actions 5 (1d4 + 3) slashing damage, and the creature must succeed
Bite—Melee Attack. +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. on a DC 10 Constitution saving throw or take 5 (2d4) poison
Hit: 9 (2d6 + 2) piercing damage. damage and have disadvantage on Dexterity-based attack rolls,
Dexterity checks, and Dexterity saving throws for 1 minute.
The creature can repeat the saving throw at the end of each of
Prisoner its turns, ending the effect early on a success.
Medium humanoid (varies), any alignment
Armor Class 10 Scare (1/Day). Each creature of the quasit’s choice within 20
Hit Points 4 (1d8) feet of it must succeed on a DC 10 Wisdom saving throw or be
Speed 30 ft. frightened for 1 minute. A creature can repeat the saving throw
Str 10 (+0) Dex 10 (+0) Con 10 (+0) at the end of each of its turns, with disadvantage if the quasit is
Int 10 (+0) Wis 10 (+0) Cha 10 (+0) within line of sight, ending the effect on it early on a success.
Languages Common
Change Shape. The quasit polymorphs into the beast form of
Actions a bat, centipede, or toad, or into its demon form. Its statistics
don’t change, and any equipment it carries is not transformed.
Unarmed Attack—Melee Attack. +1 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
If slain, the quasit reverts to its demon form.
creature. Hit: 1 bludgeoning damage.
Invisibility. The quasit turns invisible until it attacks or uses
Rock—Ranged Attack. +1 to hit, range 20 ft./60 ft., one
Scare, or until its concentration ends. Anything quasit is
creature. Hit: 2 (1d4) bludgeoning damage.
carrying or wearing is invisible as long as it remains in contact
with the quasit.
Red Wizard
Medium humanoid (human), lawful evil
Armor Class 11
Speed 30 ft.
Str 9 (–1) Dex 12 (+1) Con 13 (+1)
Int 16 (+3) Wis 12 (+1) Cha 11 (+0)
Saving Throws +3 Int, +3 Wis
Languages Common, Thayan
Spellcasting. The wizard is an 8th-level spellcaster that uses
Intelligence as his magic ability (spell save DC 14). The wizard
has the following spells prepared:
Cantrips (At Will)—chill touch, prestidigitation, ray of frost
1st level (4 Slots)—cause fear, false life, mage armor, magic missile
2nd level (3 Slots)—hold person, invisibility, ray of enfeeblement
3rd level (3 Slots)—animate dead
4th level (2 Slots)—blight
Actions
Dagger—Melee Attack. +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature.
96

Red Wizard (Conjurer) Red Wizard (Evoker)
Medium humanoid (human), lawful evil Medium humanoid (human), lawful evil
Str 9 (–1) Dex 16 (+3) Con 14 (+2) Str 9 (–1) Dex 16 (+3) Con 14 (+2)
Int 18 (+4) Wis 13 (+1) Cha 11 (+0) Int 18 (+4) Wis 13 (+1) Cha 11 (+0)
Saving Throws Int +7, Wis +4 Saving Throws Int +7, Wis +4
Proficiencies Arcana +7, Deception +3, Insight +4, Stealth +6 Proficiencies Arcana +7, Deception +3, Insight +4, Stealth +6
Languages Common, Thayan, Draconic, Infernal, Primordial Languages Common, Thayan, Draconic, Infernal, Primordial
Spellcasting. The wizard is a 6th-level spellcaster who uses Potent Cantrips. When the Red Wizard misses a creature or
Intelligence as his or her magic ability (spell save DC 15). He or that creature succeeds on a saving throw against its evocation
she usually has the following mage spells prepared: cantrip, the creature still takes half the cantrip’s damage (if any)
Cantrips (At Will)— eldritch blast, prestidigitation, shocking grasp but suffers no additional effect.
1st Level (4 Slots)—false life, fog cloud, magic missile
Sculpt Spells. When the Red Wizard casts an evocation spell
2nd Level (3 Slots)—flaming sphere, web
that affects other creatures that it can see, it can choose a
3rd Level (3 Slots)—dispel magic, fireball, misty step
number of them equal to 1 + the spell’s level. The chosen
Actions creatures automatically succeed on their saving throws against
the spell, and they take no damage if they would normally take
half damage from it.
Spellcasting. The wizard is a 6th-level spellcaster who uses
Benign Transposition. The Red Wizard teleports up to 30 feet
Intelligence as his or her magic ability (spell save DC 15).
to an unoccupied space that it can see. Alternatively, it can
He or she usually has the following mage spells prepared:
choose a space within range that is occupied by a Small or
Cantrips (At Will)—eldritch blast, prestidigitation, shocking grasp
Medium creature. If that creature is willing, both creatures
1st Level (4 Slots)—gust of wind, magic missile, thunderwave
teleport, swapping places. Once it uses this feature, the Red
2nd Level (3 Slots)—invisibility, scorching ray
Wizard can’t use it again until it finishes a long rest or casts a
3rd Level (3 Slots)—dispel magic, fireball
conjuration spell of 1st level or higher.
Actions
Using Red Wizards
The Doomvault holds Red Wizards of the various Red Wizard (Illusionist)
schools of magic. Each Red Wizard is tattooed with Medium humanoid (human), lawful evil
patterns depicting his or her specialty. When the party Armor Class 13
encounters a Red Wizard, you can either use the statis- Hit Points 35 (6d6 + 12)
tics block below if the wizard’s specialty isn’t important, Speed 30 ft.
or you can choose from among the statistics of the Str 9 (–1) Dex 16 (+3) Con 14 (+2)
Int 18 (+4) Wis 13 (+1) Cha 11 (+0)
other Red Wizards presented here.
Saving Throws Int +7, Wis +4
Proficiencies Arcana +7, Deception +3, Insight +4, Stealth +6
Languages Common, Thayan, Draconic, Infernal, Primordial
Cantrips (At Will)—eldritch blast, minor illusion1,
prestidigitation, shocking grasp
1st Level (4 Slots)—cause fear, color spray, magic missile
2nd Level (3 Slots)—invisibility, phantasmal force, sound burst
3rd Level (3 Slots)—aura of invisibility, fireball
The wizard can use the minor illusion Ghost Sound and Silent
Image effects simultaneously.
Actions
97

Red Wizard (Necromancer) Remorhaz
Medium humanoid (human), lawful evil Huge monstrosity, unaligned
Speed 30 ft. Speed 30 ft., burrow 20 ft.
Int 18 (+4) Wis 13 (+1) Cha 11 (+0) Int 4 (–3) Wis 7 (–2) Cha 5 (–3)
Saving Throws Int +7, Wis +4 Special Senses tremorsense 60 ft.
Proficiencies Arcana +7, Deception +3, Insight +4, Stealth +6 Immunities cold and fire damage
Languages Common, Thayan, Draconic, Infernal, Primordial Languages —
Spellcasting. The wizard is a 6th-level spellcaster who uses Heat Aura. In combat, the remorhaz emits tremendous heat
Intelligence as his or her magic ability (spell save DC 15). such that other creatures within 5 feet of it have disadvantage
He or she usually has the following mage spells prepared: on all attack rolls and checks, and any creature that comes into
Cantrips (At Will)—chill touch, eldritch blast, prestidigitation direct contact with the remorhaz or hits it with an unarmed
1st Level (4 Slots)—false life, grease, magic missile attack takes 10 (3d6) fire damage.
2nd Level (3 Slots)—invisibility, ray of enfeeblement
3rd Level (3 Slots)—animate dead, dispel magic, lightning bolt Actions
Bite—Melee Attack. +7 to hit, reach 10 ft., one creature. Hit:
Actions 15 (2d8 + 6) piercing damage, and if the target is Medium or
Dagger—Melee Attack. +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. smaller, it must succeed on a DC 11 Dexterity saving throw or
Hit: 5 (1d4 + 3) piercing damage. be swallowed by the remorhaz.
A swallowed creature takes 35 (10d6) fire damage at
Reactions the start of each of the remorhaz’s turns until it escapes. A
Grim Harvest. Once per turn when the Red Wizard kills one swallowed creature is blinded and restrained, but it can use
or more creatures with a spell of 1st level or higher, it regains its action to cut its way free by dealing 25 piercing or slashing
hit points equal to twice the spell’s level, or three times its damage to the gizzard (AC 15). A creature that frees itself falls
level if the spell belongs to the School of Necromancy. It prone in an unoccupied space within 5 feet of the remorhaz.
doesn’t gain this benefit for killing constructs or undead.
Sahuagin
Red Wizard (Transmuter) Medium humanoid (sahuagin), lawful evil
Medium humanoid (human), lawful evil Armor Class 11
Armor Class 13 Hit Points 13 (3d8)
Hit Points 35 (6d6 + 12) Speed 30 ft., swim 60 ft.
Speed 30 ft. Str 12 (+1) Dex 11 (+0) Con 11 (+0)
Str 9 (–1) Dex 16 (+3) Con 14 (+2) Int 12 (+1) Wis 13 (+1) Cha 9 (–1)
Int 18 (+4) Wis 13 (+1) Cha 11 (+0) Skills Perception +3
Saving Throws Int +7, Wis +4 Special Senses darkvision 60 ft.
Proficiencies Arcana +7, Deception +3, Insight +4, Stealth +6 Languages Infernal, Primordial (Aquan)
Resistances acid, cold, fire, lightning, or thunder, changed
Limited Amphibiousness. The sahuagin can breathe air and
each time the wizard casts a spell
water, but it can go without breathing water for only 4 hours.
Languages Common, Thayan, Draconic, Infernal, Primordial
Shark Telepathy. The sahuagin can communicate simple
concepts and images telepathically with any shark that is
within 100 feet of it.
Cantrips (At Will)—eldritch blast, mending, prestidigitation, Actions
shocking grasp
1st Level (4 Slots)—longstrider, magic missile, shield,
thunderwave
2nd Level (3 Slots)—heat metal, spider climb Claws—Melee Attack. +3 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 4
3rd Level (3 Slots)—fireball, slow (1d6 + 1) slashing damage.
Actions Trident—Melee Attack. +3 to hit, reach 5 ft. or range 20 ft./60
Dagger—Melee Attack. +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. ft., one target. Hit: 4 (1d6 + 1) piercing damage or, if used in two
Hit: 5 (1d4 + 3) piercing damage. hands to make a melee attack, 5 (1d8 + 1) piercing damage.
98

Sahuagin Baron Sea Hag
Large humanoid (sahuagin), lawful evil Medium fey, chaotic evil
Int 14 (+2) Wis 13 (+1) Cha 17 (+3) Int 12 (+1) Wis 12 (+1) Cha 8 (–1)
Saving Throws Dex +4, Con +5, Int +5, Wis +4 Languages Common, Giant
Skills Perception +5
Amphibious. The hag can breathe air and water.
Languages Primordial (Aquan), Infernal Horrific Appearance. Any humanoid that starts its turn within
30 feet of the hag and can see the hag’s true form must make
a DC 13 Wisdom saving throw. Unless the target is surprised
or the revelation of the hag’s true form is sudden, the target
Shark Telepathy. The sahuagin can communicate simple can instead avert its own eyes. Until the start of its next turn,
concepts and images telepathically with any shark that is a creature that averts its eyes has disadvantage on attack rolls
within 100 feet of it. against the hag. On a failed save, the creature is frightened for
1 minute. A creature can repeat the saving throw at the end of
Actions each of its turns, with disadvantage if the hag is within line of
Multiattack. The sahuagin makes one bite attack and two claw sight, ending the effect on it early on a success. If a creature’s
attacks, or one bite attack and two trident attacks. saving throw is successful or the effect ends for it, the creature is
immune to the hag’s Horrific Appearance for the next 24 hours.
+ 4) piercing damage.Claw—Melee Attack. +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., Actions
one target. Hit: 11 (2d6 + 4) slashing damage.
Claws—Melee Attack. +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit: 8
Trident—Melee or Ranged Attack. +7 to hit, reach 5 ft. or range (2d6 + 1) slashing damage.
20 ft./60 ft., one target. Hit: 11 (2d6 + 4) piercing damage
Death Glare (3/Day). The hag chooses one frightened creature
or, if used in two hands to make a melee attack, 13 (2d8 + 4)
she can see within 30 feet of her, forcing it to gaze upon her
piercing damage.
hideous visage. The target must succeed on a DC 13 Wisdom
saving throw or drop to 0 hit points.
Sahuagin Priestess Illusory Seeming. The hag covers herself and anything she is
Medium humanoid (sahuagin), lawful evil carrying or wearing with an illusion that makes her look like
Armor Class 11 another ugly female creature of her general size and humanoid
Hit Points 27 (6d8) shape. The effect ends if the hag takes a bonus action to end it
Speed 30 ft., swim 60 ft. or if she dies.
Str 12 (+1) Dex 11 (+0) Con 11 (+0) The changes wrought by this effect fail to hold up to
Int 12 (+1) Wis 17 (+3) Cha 13 (+1) physical inspection. For example, the hag could appear to have
Skills Perception +6, Religion +4 no claws, but someone touching her hand might feel the claws.
Special Senses darkvision 60 ft. Otherwise, a creature must take an action to visually inspect
Languages Infernal, Primordial (Aquan) the illusion and succeed on a DC 16 Wisdom (Perception)
check to discern that the hag is disguised.
Shark Telepathy. The sahuagin can communicate simple
concepts and images telepathically with any shark that is
within 100 feet of it.
Spellcasting. The sahuagin is a 6th-level spellcaster that uses
Wisdom as its spellcasting ability (spell save DC 14, +6 to hit).
The sahuagin knows the following spells:
1st Level (4 Slots)—bestow curse, jump, inflict wounds
2nd Level (3 Slots)—hold person, spiritual weapon (trident)
3rd Level (3 Slots)—conjure animals (1 hunter shark), mass
healing word
Actions
Claws—Melee Attack. +3 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 4
99

Shadow Skeleton
Medium undead, chaotic evil Medium undead, lawful evil
Armor Class 12 Armor Class 11 (armor scraps)
Hit Points 13 (3d8) Hit Points 9 (2d8)
Int 6 (–2) Wis 10 (+0) Cha 8 (–1) Int 6 (–2) Wis 8 (–1) Cha 3 (–4)
Skills Stealth +4 (+6 in dim light or darkness) Special Senses darkvision 60 ft.
Special Senses darkvision 60 ft. Immunities poison; intoxicated, unconscious; disease, poison
Immunities necrotic, poison; frightened, grappled, intoxicated, effects; doesn’t breathe, drink, eat, or sleep
paralyzed, prone, restrained, unconscious; dehydration, disease, Vulnerabilities bludgeoning
petrification, poison effects, polymorph; doesn’t breathe, drink, Languages understands Common but can’t speak
eat, or sleep
Resistances acid, cold, fire, lightning, thunder; bludgeoning, Actions
piercing, and slashing from nonmagical weapons Longsword—Melee Attack. +2 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit:
Languages — 4 (1d8) slashing damage.
Light Sensitivity. While in bright light, the shadow has Shortbow—Ranged Attack. +2 to hit, range 80 ft./320 ft., one
disadvantage on attack rolls and ability checks. target. Hit: 3 (1d6) piercing damage.
Shadow Form. While in dim light or darkness, the shadow can
move through any opening without squeezing. Spirit Naga
Shadow Stealth. Dim light obscures the shadow enough for it Large monstrosity, neutral evil
to attempt to hide. Armor Class 14
Hit Points 75 (10d10 + 20)
Actions Speed 40 ft.
Strength Drain—Melee Attack. +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one Str 18 (+4) Dex 17 (+3) Con 14 (+2)
creature. Hit: 6 (1d8 + 2) necrotic damage, and a living Int 16 (+3) Wis 15 (+2) Cha 16 (+3)
creature takes a cumulative –1 penalty to Strength-based Saving Throws Dex +6, Con +5, Wis +5, Cha +6
attack rolls, Strength checks, and Strength saving throws. If a Special Senses darkvision 60 ft.
creature’s penalty plus its normal Strength modifier equals –5, Immunities poison; charmed, intoxicated, unconscious; disease,
the creature dies. The penalty lasts until the creature finishes a poison effects; doesn’t need to breathe, drink, eat, or sleep
short or long rest. Languages Abyssal, Common
If a non-evil humanoid creature dies due to this attack, a Spellcasting. The naga is a 10th-level spellcaster that uses
new shadow rises from the corpse 1d4 hours later Charisma as its spellcasting ability (spell save DC 15, +7 to hit).
It needs to use only verbal components to cast its spells. The
naga knows the following spells:
Shambling Mound Cantrips—acid splash, mage hand, minor illusion
Large plant, unaligned 1st Level (4 Slots)—detect magic, magic missile, sleep
Armor Class 9 2nd Level (3 Slots)—detect thoughts, hold person
Hit Points 93 (11d10 + 33) 3rd Level (3 Slots)—lightning bolt, water breathing
Speed 20 ft., swim 20 ft. 4th Level (3 Slots)—blight, dimension door
Str 18 (+4) Dex 8 (–1) Con 16 (+3) 5th Level (2 Slots)—dominate person, true seeing
Int 5 (–3) Wis 10 (+0) Cha 5 (–3)
Skills Stealth +3 (+7 in in a swampy or forested area) Rejuvenation. A slain naga regains all its hit points and
Special Senses blind, blindsight 60 ft. becomes active again in 1d6 days unless its remains have a
Immunities lightning; blinded, deafened, unconscious; effects wish spell cast upon them or are made into a bone naga.
that require the target to see; doesn’t sleep
Resistances bludgeoning, cold, fire Actions
Languages — Bite—Melee Attack. +8 to hit, reach 10 ft., one creature. Hit: 7
(1d6 + 4) piercing damage, and the creature must make a DC
Lightning Absorption. Whenever the mound is dealt lightning 14 Constitution saving throw, taking 13 (3d8) poison damage
damage, it regains a number of hit points equal to the damage on a failed save, or half as much damage on a successful one.
dealt to it.
Actions
Multiattack. The mound makes two slam attacks. If both
attacks hit one creature, the creature is grappled, and
restrained and unable to breathe while grappled. In addition,
the creature must succeed on a DC 13 Constitution saving
throw at the start of each of the mound’s turns or take 13 (2d8
+ 4) bludgeoning damage. While grappling in this way, the
mound can’t use its Multiattack.
Slam—Melee Attack. +8 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 13
100

Stone Golem repeat the saving throw, ending the effect early on a success. If a
Large construct, unaligned creature’s saving throw is successful, the creature is immune to
Armor Class 15 the succubus’s Charm for the next 24 hours.
Hit Points 126 (12d10 + 60) Draining Kiss. The succubus kisses a creature charmed by
Speed 20 ft. and within 5 feet of her. The creature must make a DC 15
Str 24 (+7) Dex 9 (–1) Con 20 (+5) Constitution saving throw, taking 31 (5d10 + 4) psychic
Int 3 (–4) Wis 11 (+0) Cha 1 (–5) damage on a failed save, or half as much damage on a
Special Senses darkvision 120 ft. successful one. The creature’s hit point maximum is reduced
Immunities lightning, poison, and psychic damage, as well by an amount equal to the damage taken. If this effect reduces
as damage from nonmagical weapons except those made of a creature’s hit point maximum to 0, the creature dies. This
adamantine; dehydration, disease, petrification, poison effects, reduction to a creature’s hit point maximum lasts until the
sleep, starvation, and suffocation; can’t be charmed, frightened, creature finishes a long rest.
or paralyzed
Languages understands Common
Magic Resistance. The golem has advantage on saving throws Thayan Apprentice
against magical effects. Medium humanoid (human), lawful evil
Armor Class 11
Actions Hit Points 14 (4d6)
Multiattack. The golem makes two fist attacks. Speed 30 ft.
Str 11 (+0) Dex 12 (+1) Con 10 (+0)
Fist—Melee Attack. +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit: 21 Int 14 (+2) Wis 13 (+1) Cha 11 (+1)
(4d6 + 7) bludgeoning damage. Languages Common, Thayan
Slow (Recharge 5–6). The golem chooses any number of Spellcasting. The apprentice is a 4th-level spellcaster that uses
creatures within 10 feet of it. Each target must succeed on a Intelligence as its magic ability (spell save DC 12). It has the
DC 13 Constitution saving throw or have its speed reduced by following spells prepared:
10 feet for 1 minute. The speed reduction is cumulative with Cantrips (At Will)—prestidigitation, ray of frost, shocking grasp
other effects that reduce the target’s speed. 1st Level (4 Slots)—cause fear, magic missile, shield
2nd Level (3 Slots)—hold person, Melf ’s acid arrow
Succubus Actions
Medium fiend (shapechanger), neutral evil Melee Attack—Dagger. +3 to hit (reach 5 ft.; one creature).
Armor Class 13 Hit: 3 (1d4 + 1) piercing damage.
Str 8 (–1) Dex 17 (+3) Con 13 (+1) Thayan Warrior
Int 18 (+4) Wis 12 (+1) Cha 18 (+4) Medium humanoid (human), lawful evil
Skills Deception +7, Insight +5, Perception +4, Persuasion +7, Armor Class 16 (studded leather, shield)
Stealth +6 Hit Points 19 (3d8 + 6)
Special Senses darkvision 120 ft. Speed 30 ft.
Resistances cold, fire, lightning, poison; bludgeoning, piercing, Str 16 (+3) Dex 13 (+1) Con 14 (+2)
and slashing from nonmagical weapons Int 11 (+0) Wis 11 (+0) Cha 10 (+0)
Immunities disease Languages Common, Thayan
Languages Abyssal, Common, Infernal
Action Surge (1/Day). The warrior can take an extra action on
Telepathy. The succubus can communicate telepathically with its turn.
any creature within 100 feet of her that can understand a
language. If the creature is charmed by the succubus, the range Actions
is 1,000 feet. Melee Attack—Longsword. +5 to hit (reach 5 ft.; one creature).
Actions
Claw—Melee Attack. +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 10
Change Shape. The succubus polymorphs into a Small or
Medium humanoid, or back into her fiend form. Among
her statistics, only her size changes, although while in
humanoid form, she can’t fly. Any equipment she carries is not
transformed. If slain, the succubus reverts to her fiend form.
Charm. The succubus chooses one humanoid she can see within
30 feet of her. The creature must succeed on a DC 15 Wisdom
saving throw or be charmed for 1 day, until the succubus dies,
or until the succubus uses this power again. While charmed in
this way, the creature obeys the succubus’s verbal or telepathic
commands. If the charmed creature takes any damage, it can
101

Troll maximum lasts until the creature finishes a long rest.
Large giant, chaotic evil If this effect reduces a creature’s hit point maximum to 0,
Armor Class 13 the target dies. A humanoid that dies in this way rises as a
Hit Points 66 (7d10 + 28) vampire spawn under the vampire’s control on the night after
Speed 30 ft. its interment.
Str 18 (+4) Dex 13 (+1) Con 18 (+4)
Int 7 (–2) Wis 8 (–1) Cha 9 (–1) Charm. The vampire chooses one humanoid it can see within
Skills Perception +2 30 feet of it. Provided the target can see the vampire, it must
Special Senses darkvision 60 ft. succeed on a DC 17 Wisdom saving throw or be charmed
Languages Giant by the vampire. While charmed in this way, the creature
regards the vampire as a trusted friend and ally to be heeded
Regeneration. At the start of its turn, the troll regains 5 and protected. Although the target isn’t under the vampire’s
hit points. When it takes acid or fire damage, the troll’s control, it takes the vampire’s requests or actions in the most
regeneration doesn’t function on its next turn. The troll dies only favorable way it can. For the vampire’s bite attack, the charmed
if it starts its turn with 0 hit points and does not regenerate. creature is considered to be a willing target.
Each time the vampire or its allies do anything harmful to
Actions the target, it can repeat the saving throw, ending the effect on
Multiattack. The troll makes one bite attack and two claw it early on a success. Otherwise, the effect lasts 24 hours or
attacks. until the vampire is destroyed, is on a different plane than the
charmed creature, or takes a bonus action to end the effect.
Bite—Melee Attack. +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature.
Mist Form. Provided it isn’t in sunlight or running water, the
Claw—Melee Attack. +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. vampire transforms into a mist or reverts to its undead form.
Hit: 7 (1d6 + 4) slashing damage. Any equipment the vampire carrying transforms along with it.
While in mist form, the vampire can’t take any actions,
speak, or manipulate objects. It has a fly speed of 20 feet,
Vampire can enter a space occupied by an enemy, and has advantage
Medium undead, chaotic evil on Strength, Dexterity, and Constitution saving throws. The
Armor Class 14 mist has the vampire’s immunities as well as immunity to all
Hit Points 110 (13d8 + 52) nonmagical damage. It can’t fall and remains hovering even
Speed 30 ft. when incapacitated. In addition, if air can pass through an
Str 18 (+4) Dex 18 (+4) Con 18 (+4) opening, the mist can do so, but it treats liquids as though they
Int 15 (+2) Wis 16 (+3) Cha 18 (+4) were solid surfaces.
Saving Throws Wisdom +8
Special Senses darkvision 60 ft. Reactions
Immunities necrotic, poison, and damage from nonmagical
Misty Escape. When it drops to 0 hit points, the vampire uses
weapons; charmed, paralyzed; dehydration, disease, poison
Mist Form. It is destroyed if prevented from doing so. As mist,
effects, and suffocation
the vampire must reach its resting place within 2 hours or be
Languages Common
destroyed. Once in its resting place he vampire reverts to its
Legendary Resistance (3/Day). If the vampire fails a saving undead form. It is then paralyzed until it regains at least 1 hit
throw, it can choose to succeed instead. point. After spending 1 hour in its resting place, if the vampire
still has 0 hit points, it regains 1 hit point.
Regeneration. At the start of each of its turns, provided it isn’t
in sunlight or running water, the vampire regains 10 hit points.
If the vampire takes radiant damage, this trait doesn’t function
Legendary Actions
on the vampire’s next turn. This trait ceases to function while The vampire can take up to two legendary actions between
the vampire has 0 hit points. each of its turns, taking the actions all at once or spreading
them over the round. A legendary action can be taken only
Spider Climb. The vampire can climb on smooth walls and at the start or end of a turn. The vampire has the following
upside down on horizontal surfaces. legendary action options:
1 Action. The vampire makes one melee attack.
Sunlight Vulnerability. The vampire takes 20 radiant damage
1 Action. The vampire moves up to its speed without
each time it starts its turn in direct sunlight.
provoking opportunity attacks.
Actions
Multiattack. The vampire makes three attacks, two with its
claws and one with its bite.

(1d6 + 4) piercing damage plus 10 (3d6) necrotic damage, the
target’s hit point maximum is reduced by an amount equal to
the necrotic damage taken, and the vampire regains hit points
equal to the reduction. This reduction to a creature’s hit point
102

Vampire Spawn turn. This trait ceases to function when the mist drops to 0 hit
Medium undead, chaotic evil points.
Armor Class 11 Sunlight Hypersensitivity. If the mist starts its turn in sunlight,
Hit Points 56 (8d8 + 16) it takes 20 radiant damage. While in sunlight, the mist has
Speed 30 ft. disadvantage on attack rolls and ability checks.
Str 14 (+2) Dex 12 (+1) Con 14 (+2)
Int 10 (+0) Wis 10 (+0) Cha 11 (+0) Actions
Saving Throws Dex +6, Wis +3 Blood Drain. The mist enters a living creature’s space. The
Special Senses darkvision 60 ft. creature must succeed on a DC 13 Constitution saving throw.
Damage Resistances necrotic; bludgeoning, piercing, and On a failed save, the creature takes 10 (3d6) necrotic damage,
slashing from nonmagical weapons its hit point maximum is reduced by an amount equal to
Damage Immunities poison the necrotic damage taken, and the mist regains hit points
Condition Immunities poisoned equal to the reduction. This reduction to the creature’s hit
Languages Common point maximum lasts until the creature finishes a long rest. If
this effect reduces a creature’s hit point maximum to 0, the
Regeneration. At the start of its turn, the vampire spawn regains creature dies.
5 (1d10) hit points. If it takes radiant damage, the vampire
spawn’s regeneration does not function on its next turn.
Spider Climb. The vampire spawn can climb on smooth walls Vrock
and upside down on horizontal surfaces. Large fiend (demon), chaotic evil
Armor Class 12
Sunlight Vulnerability. The vampire spawn takes 10 radiant Hit Points 68 (8d10 + 24)
damage each time it starts its turn in direct sunlight. Speed 40 ft., fly 60 ft.
Str 17 (+3) Dex 15 (+2) Con 16 (+3)
Actions Int 8 (–1) Wis 13 (+1) Cha 8 (–1)
Multiattack. The vampire spawn makes two attacks, one with Saving Throws Dex +5, Wis +4, Cha +2
its claws and one with its bite. Special Senses darkvision 120 ft.
Immunities poison; disease, poison effects
Claws—Melee Attack. +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature.
Resistances cold, fire, lightning; bludgeoning, piercing, and
slashing from nonmagical weapons
Vampiric Bite—Melee Attack. +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Languages Abyssal
Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) piercing damage and 7 (2d6) necrotic damage,
Telepathy. The vrock can communicate telepathically with any
the target’s hit point maximum is reduced by an amount equal
to the necrotic damage dealt by this attack, and the vampire
regains hit points equal to the amount of necrotic damage dealt. Actions
The reduction to the target’s hit point maximum lasts for
Multiattack. The vrock makes one beak attack and one talon attack.
24 hours. A creature whose hit point maximum is reduced
to 0 by this attack dies. Beak—Melee Attack. +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit: 8
Vampiric Mist Talons—Melee Attack. +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit:
Medium undead, chaotic evil 12 (2d8 + 3) slashing damage.
Armor Class 12 Spores (Recharge 6). The vrock releases poisonous spores in a
Hit Points 40 (9d8) 15-foot-radius sphere centered on itself. This sphere spreads
Speed 0 ft., fly 20 ft. around corners. Each creature in the area must succeed on
Str 2 (–4) Dex 14 (+2) Con 10 (+0) a DC 13 Constitution saving throw or take 5 (1d10) poison
Int 4 (–3) Wis 12 (+1) Cha 10 (+0) damage at the start of each of its turns. A creature can repeat
Saving Throws Wis +5 the saving throw at the end of each of its turns, ending the
Special Senses darkvision 60 ft. effect on it early on a success. Splashing a creature with
Damage Immunities necrotic, poison; bludgeoning, piercing, holy water, or casting a bless or lesser restoration spell on the
and slashing from nonmagical weapons creature, also ends the effect on it.
Condition Immunities charmed, grappled, paralyzed,
poisoned, prone, restrained Stunning Screech (1/Day). The vrock emits a horrific screech.
Languages understands Common Each creature that is not a demon, is within 20 feet of the
vrock, and can hear it must succeed on a DC 13 Constitution
Hover. The mist hovers until it is destroyed. saving throw or be stunned until the end of its next turn and
deafened for 1 minute. While deafened in this way, a creature
Mist Form. The mist can enter a space occupied by an enemy. can repeat the saving throw at the end of each of its turns,
In addition, if air can pass through an opening, the mist can, ending the effect on it early on a success.
but it treats liquids as though they were solid surfaces. The
mist can’t manipulate objects.
Regeneration. At the start of each of its turns, provided it isn’t
in sunlight, the mist regains 5 hit points. If the mist takes
radiant damage, this trait doesn’t function on the mist’s next
103

Water Elemental Water Grue
Large elemental (water), neutral Small elemental (water), neutral evil
Int 5 (–3) Wis 10 (+0) Cha 10 (+0) Int 10 (+0) Wis 10 (+0) Cha 8 (–1)
Immunities poison damage; disease, petrification, poison Immunities poison damage; disease, petrification, poison
effects, sleep, starvation, and suffocation; can’t be knocked effects, sleep, starvation, and suffocation; can’t be knocked
prone or paralyzed prone or paralyzed
Resistances acid damage, and damage from nonmagical weapons Resistances acid damage, and damage from nonmagical
Languages Primordial (Aquan) weapons
Languages Primordial (Aquan)
Formless. The elemental can squeeze through gaps that are at
least 1 inch wide. Against the Current. No liquid can force the grue to move.
Freeze. When the elemental takes cold damage, it partially Actions
freezes. Until the end of its next turn, it loses its resistance to
Melee Attack—Water Jet. +4 to hit (reach 5 ft.; one creature).
nonmagical weapons and has its speed reduced by 20 feet.
Hit: 8 (2d6 + 1) damage.
Actions Blinding Jet (Recharge 5–6). +4 to hit (reach 5 ft.; one creature).
Fist—Melee Attack. +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit: 11 Hit: 8 (2d6 + 1) damage, and the target must succeed on a DC
(2d6 + 4) bludgeoning damage. 9 Constitution saving throw or be blinded for 1 minute. The
target can repeat the saving throw at the end of each of its
Whelm (Recharge 4–6). Each creature in the elemental’s space
turns, ending the blindness early on a successful save.
must make a DC 16 Strength saving throw. On a failure, a
target takes 13 (2d8 + 4) bludgeoning damage and is grappled. Appearance
Until this grapple ends, the target is restrained and unable to
The grue can appear as a small pool or rolling wave of greenish
breathe. If the saving throw is successful, the target is pushed
water, or as a blob of jelly with a fringe of clawed appendages
so it is no longer in the elemental’s space.
and tubes. It attacks with jets of water.
The elemental can grapple one Large creature or up to two
Medium or smaller creatures at one time. At the start of each
of the elemental’s turns, each target grappled by it takes 13 White Maw
Gargantuan undead (ooze), unaligned
A creature within 5 feet of the elemental can pull a creature
Armor Class 6
or object out of it by taking an action to make a DC 16
Hit Points 230 (20d12 + 100)
Strength and succeeding.
Speed 0 ft.
Str 18 (+4) Dex 1 (–5) Con 20 (+5)
Int 1 (–5) Wis 10 (+0) Cha 3 (–4)
Immunities blinded, charmed, frightened, prone, unconscious;
disease, petrification, poison, sleep, starvation, suffocation,
thirst; can’t be blinded, charmed, frightened, or knocked prone
Resistances acid, cold, fire
Languages —
Dissolve. Any nonmagical weapon that hits White Maw is
damaged, taking a –1 penalty, cumulative with multiple hits,
to subsequent damage rolls. Nonmagical ammunition that hits
the ooze is destroyed. A weapon is destroyed if this penalty
drops to –5. It costs half the weapon’s cost to repair this
damage, but a destroyed weapon can’t be repaired.
False Seeming. White Maw can hold itself so still that it appears
to be the ground, and creatures can walk on it as if it is the
ground. A successful DC 19 Intelligence (Search) or Wisdom
(Perception) check detects small movements that reveal the
floor is a creature.
Killer Response. Any creature that starts its turn in contact with
the White Maw provokes an opportunity attack from the ooze.
Actions
Pseudopod—Melee Attack. +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit:
6 (1d6 + 4) bludgeoning damage plus 7 (2d6) acid damage.
104

Wight Actions
Medium undead, neutral evil Shock—Melee Attack. +9 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit: 9
Armor Class 14 (chain shirt) (2d8) lightning damage.
Hit Points 27 (6d8)
Invisibility. The will-o’-wisp extinguishes its illumination,
Speed 30 ft.
becoming invisible until it attacks or uses Life Drain, or until its
Str 15 (+2) Dex 12 (+1) Con 10 (+0)
concentration ends.
Int 10 (+0) Wis 13 (+1) Cha 15 (+2)
Saving Throws Wis +4 Life Drain. The will-o’-wisp drains the life force of one dying
Skills Perception +4, Stealth +4 creature it can see within 5 feet of it. The creature must
Special Senses darkvision 60 ft. succeed on a DC 12 Constitution saving throw or die. If the
Immunities necrotic, poison; intoxicated, paralyzed, creature dies, the will-o’-wisp regains 5 (1d10) hit points.
unconscious; disease, poison effect; doesn’t need to breathe,
drink, eat, or sleep
Resistances bludgeoning, piercing, and slashing from Wraith
nonmagical weapons that aren’t silvered Medium undead, neutral evil
Languages Common, Thayan Armor Class 13
Hit Points 31 (7d8)
Actions Speed 0 ft., fly 60 ft.
Multiattack. The wight makes two attacks, either with its Str 6 (–2) Dex 16 (+3) Con 11 (+0)
longsword or longbow. It can use Life Drain in place of one Int 12 (+1) Wis 14 (+2) Cha 15 (+2)
other attack. Special Senses darkvision 60 ft.
Immunities necrotic, poison; charmed, grappled, intoxicated,
Life Drain. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
paralyzed, prone, restrained, unconscious; dehydration, disease,
creature. Hit: 9 (2d6 + 2) necrotic damage, and the creature
petrification, poison effects, polymorph; doesn’t breathe, drink,
must succeed on a DC 13 Constitution saving throw or its hit
eat, or sleep
point maximum is reduced by an amount equal to the damage
Resistances acid, cold, fire, lightning, thunder; bludgeoning,
taken. If this effect reduces a creature’s hit point maximum
piercing, and slashing from nonmagical weapons
to 0, the creature dies. This reduction to a creature’s hit point
maximum lasts until the creature finishes a long rest.
A humanoid creature slain by this attack rises 24 hours later Incorporeal. The wraith can move through an object or another
as a zombie under the wight’s control. creature, but can’t stop there.
Longsword—Melee Attack. +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Light Sensitivity. While in sunlight, the wraith has disadvantage
Hit: 6 (1d8 + 2) slashing damage. on attack rolls, and on Wisdom (Perception) and Intelligence
(Investigation) checks that rely on sight.
Longbow—Ranged Attack. +4 to hit, range 150 ft./600 ft., one
creature. Hit: 5 (1d8 + 1) piercing damage. Actions
Life Drain—Melee Attack. +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature.
Will-o’-Wisp Hit: 15 (3d8 + 2) necrotic damage, and the creature must
succeed on a DC 13 Constitution saving throw or its hit point
Tiny undead, chaotic evil
maximum is reduced by an amount equal to the damage
Armor Class 19
taken. If this effect reduces a creature’s hit point maximum to
Hit Points 22 (9d4)
0, the creature dies, and the wraith can take a bonus action
to use Raise Specter. This reduction to a creature’s hit point
Str 1 (–5) Dex 29 (+9) Con 10 (+0)
maximum lasts until the creature finishes a long rest.
Int 13 (+1) Wis 14 (+2) Cha 11 (+0)
Immunities lightning, poison; grappled, intoxicated, paralyzed,
prone, restrained, unconscious; spells except for magic missile
and maze; dehydration, disease, petrification, poison effects,
polymorph; doesn’t breathe, drink, eat, or sleep
Resistances acid, cold, fire, necrotic, thunder; bludgeoning,
piercing, and slashing from nonmagical weapons
Languages Common
Illumination. The will-o’-wisp sheds bright light in a 10-foot
radius and dim light in a 20-foot radius. As a bonus action
on its turn, the will-o’-wisp can alter its light from normal
brightness down to dim light in a 5-foot radius.
Incorporeal. When the will-o’-wisp takes damage that is not
force damage or radiant damage, or from an ethereal source,
halve the damage.
105

Wyvern Zombie
Large dragon, unaligned Medium undead, neutral evil
Hit Points 76 (9d10 + 27) Hit Points 9 (2d8)
Int 5 (–3) Wis 12 (+1) Cha 6 (–2) Int 5 (–3) Wis 6 (–2) Cha 5 (–3)
Skills Perception +4 Special Senses darkvision 60 ft.
Special Senses darkvision 60 ft. Immunities poison; intoxicated, unconscious; disease, poison
Languages — effects; doesn’t breathe, drink, eat, or sleep
Languages understands the languages it knew in life but can’t
Actions speak
Multiattack. The wyvern makes one bite attack and one
Zombie Fortitude. If the zombie takes damage that reduces it
stinger attack, or while flying, one claw attack and one stinger
to 0 hit points, it makes a Constitution saving throw with a DC
attack.
Bite—Melee Attack. +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit: 13 the zombie drops to 1 hit point instead.
Actions
Claws—Melee Attack. +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit:
Fist—Melee Attack. +2 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 3 (1d4
11 (2d6 + 4) slashing damage, and the wyvern can make a
+ 1) bludgeoning damage.
Strength check contested by the creature’s Strength (Athletics)
or Dexterity (Acrobatics) check. If the wyvern wins, the target
is grappled. The wyvern can carry the grappled creature with it,
but its speed is halved unless the creature is Small or smaller.
Stinger—Melee Attack. +6 to hit, reach 10 ft., one creature. Hit:
8 (1d8 + 4) piercing damage, and the target must make a DC
15 Constitution saving throw, taking 24 (7d6) poison damage
on a failed save, or half as much damage on a successful one.
Yeti
Large monstrosity, neutral
Armor Class 12
Speed 40 ft.
Str 18 (+4) Dex 11 (+0) Con 16 (+3)
Int 8 (–1) Wis 7 (–2) Cha 10 (+0)
Skills Perception +0, Stealth +7
Immunities cold damage
Languages —
Camouflage. The yeti has advantage on Dexterity (Stealth)
checks made to become hidden in snowy terrain.
Chilling Gaze. A creature that starts its turn within 30 feet
of the yeti and can see it must either avert its eyes or make
a DC 10 Wisdom saving throw against fear (if the target is
surprised, it cannot avert its eyes). A target that averts its eyes
has disadvantage on attack rolls until the start of its next turn.
On a failed save, the target is paralyzed until the start of its
next turn.
Yeti are immune to the effect of their own chilling gaze as
well as the chilling gaze of other yeti.
Actions
Multiattack. The yeti makes two claw attacks.
(1d6 + 4) slashing damage and 3 (1d6) cold damage.
106

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What is the adventure about?

What is the adventure about?

What is the goal of the Thayan forces?

What is the goal of the Thayan forces?

aGe 12 +

dreams of the red Wizards ™

an adventure for CharaCters of 6 th – 8 th LeveL

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©2014 Wizards of the Coast LLC.

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Synopsis A dventure Goals

What Is the Sundering?

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Running Sessions Before each session, the coordinator should:

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Sir Isteval Sir Darfin Floshin

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Kelson Darktreader Mennek Ariz

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Jekk then speaks. Assault the Bloodgate

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Each elemental node is a demiplane that can chan-

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NPC Versus NPC

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Thayan Treasure Character Death

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This chamber has walls draped in black

Cursed Prisms. Unless Issem is

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25. Dreaming Garden

Creatures. The Red Wizard Thuria lives here and

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