Fortress of The Yuan-Ti

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completed The Sinister Spire, they enter this adventure by stepping
Introduction through the electric gate in Fadheela’s lair, hidden within the
Necromancer’s Spike. If you have not played The Sinister Spire
“Who else knows?” The sibilant voice carried a foul taint, like the first
as a precursor to this adventure, the party can be led to the area
wisp of breeze catching the rising smoke of a crematorium.
by campaign hooks of your own devising.
Shiuahn wanted to look away, to blink the sweat from her eyes, but
The PCs begin the adventure atop a small rise, looking out
she was unable to break the Master’s gaze. “No one, Lord.”
over a valley dotted with buildings and farms. The ominous
“WHO KNOWS?!”
Castle Serastis stands within a hollow in the cliff that marks
Shiuahn fell to her knees. Like all her kin, all her neighbors, she had
the south side of Cettrux Hill.
been pressed into service years ago by the new occupants of the strange
Read through the adventure to gain familiarity with the mate-
castle recessed into the face of Cettrux Hill. However, where many of
rial. Though this scenario has been designed specifically for
INTRODUCTION
the humans suffered beneath the lash of the overseer’s minions or the
lower- and mid-level characters, it is by no means an introductory
crushing weight of starvation, Shiuahn had maintained the favor of
adventure. It is assumed that you have at least some experience
the serpent-folk through eager cooperation.
as a DM. However, you are likely to run this adventure over the
If only her curiosity had not gotten the better of her. . . .
course of several game sessions. For your initial sessions, you can
“No one, Lord, I swear! I meant no trespass! But I saw the gate active
pay more attention to the early encounters than the later ones.
when it should not have been. I feared intrusion. . . .” The torturer’s
In a typical 4-hour game session, you should anticipate getting
words ran over one another in her haste. Blood dripped from her lips
through three to five encounter areas.
where her teeth, chattering with fear, had torn them.
The Master looked not to Shiuahn but to the foul creature behind
her. Long-fingered hands were clenched on the human’s shoulders,
tentacles writhing around her head. The mind flayer’s answer came
USING THE FORMAT
The encounter format used in this adventure uses keyed entries
not in words, but as raw thought.
similar to other published adventures. However, tactical encoun-
She speaks truth. None of the others saw what she saw.
ters are separate from story information.
“Good.” The Master reached out, gently cradling Shiuahn’s head in a
Tactical Encounters: Numbered, or keyed, areas are
bloated, scaly hand. “You might have caused us much trouble, Shiuahn.
described in the initial section of this text. Use the keyed entries
The willing sacrifice you witnessed was the first of a series of great rites,
as both a summary of the adventure and a flowchart. If a keyed
the most important ever conducted in this world. For now, they must
entry involves combat or other action that places importance
progress in secret. What good fortune that the only one to learn of them
on position and movement, that entry refers you to a tactical
was a human so loyal as you.”
encounter.
Shiuahn stood a little straighter. “I live to serve, Lord. If I might be
A tactical encounter’s page or pages include a map of the
of any service to the ritual, you need but demand it of me.”
area in which the encounter takes place, notes on setting up
The Master’s gaze flicked from Shiuahn’s eyes to the blood drying
the encounter, monster statistics blocks, and text descriptions
at the corner of her mouth. “Why, Shiuahn, we could not perform it
of how the terrain and features of the encounter affect play.
without you. . . .”
Every aspect of an encounter need not be used—the players
might not be interested in all the details of an area. Indeed, the
Fortress of the Yuan-Ti is a DUNGEONS & DRAGONS® adventure
characters might avoid whole encounters, either intentionally
designed for four 7th-level player characters. PCs who complete
or unwittingly.
this quest should advance to 8th level or higher, depending on
The combat encounters in this adventure are designed for use
how successful they are in defeating the challenges presented
with D&D Miniatures. If you don’t have the exact miniature to
herein. It can be played as a stand-alone adventure or as the con-
represent a monster, or you aren’t using D&D Miniatures, just use
clusion of a series that began with Barrow of the Forgotten King
whatever substitute you choose to run the tactical encounters.
and The Sinister Spire.
WHAT YOU NEED TO PLAY ADVENTURE BACKGROUND

An organization known as the Vanguard of Sertrous recently
Fortress of the Yuan-Ti is intended for use with the core rule-
sent a tomb-robber named Xeron to the town of Kingsholm.
books of the DUNGEONS & DRAGONS game. You need the Player’s
North of the town stands the tomb of the forgotten king, an
Handbook and Dungeon Master’s Guide to play, and even though
ancient sovereign prophesied to return from death to defend the
this book includes statistics for all the monsters in the tactical
land against terrible evil. Within the sarcophagi of the forgot-
encounters, the Monster Manual remains a helpful resource. The
ten king and the faithful companions who had served him in
tactical encounters draw from various sources, including the
life were hidden magic items of great power. With those relics,
various Monster Manual supplements (MM2, MM3, MM4, and
the Vanguard of Sertrous planned to wreak untold havoc. Pos-
so on), but all the information needed to run the adventure is
sessing the remains of the king himself would allow them to
provided in these pages.
prevent the prophecy from ever being fulfi lled—or worse yet,
to corrupt it for their own ends.
PREPARATION Xeron and his allies broke into the tomb and made off not only
with the magic items, but also with the bones of the forgotten
This adventure takes place mostly within Castle Serastis, head-
king. Although Xeron was defeated (either by the PCs or another
quarters of the Vanguard of Sertrous. If the players have just
group of adventurers), his allies met up with other operatives
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of the Vanguard who transported the bones and relics through by the demon lord’s desire to see the world thrown down and
the depths of the Underdark. The adventurers pursued them consumed.
through the subterranean city of Pedestal and to the lair of an
ancient drow necromancer. The Vanguard of Sertrous
There, they recovered one of the relics and slew a Vanguard This new cult of Sertrous survived the millennia, though it never
operative, only to discover that the others—and the bones—had grew particularly large or potent. In recent years, however, one
disappeared through a mystic portal. It now takes one more of its leaders—a yuan-ti blackguard named Sulvaugren—found
plunge into the unknown to wrest unspeakable power from his dreams touched by a dark madness. Sertrous was ready to
the grip of the Vanguard, and to return the forgotten king to wake, and Sulvaugren would be the one to make it happen.
his rightful resting place. Sulvaugren recast the demon’s cult as the Vanguard of Sertrous
and, with his followers, took over the sect’s ancestral home in
INTRODUCTION
Castle Serastis. There, he uncovered dark lore describing the

WHAT THE PCS KNOW Sacrament of the Risen Abyss—the means by which Sertrous
The PCs know all the information provided in the Adventure
would again walk the world.
Background, above. (If they played through DD1 and DD2, they
The majority of the Vanguard’s members believe that they
know the specific details of those adventures, of course.) They
labor to raise Sertrous as a deity, who will then reward them in
also know, or can at least surmise, that the bizarre fortress is the
the new order to come. Only the leaders of the Vanguard know
final destination of those they pursue. Whatever the fate of the
that the cult’s true goal is not ascension, but the destruction of
stolen bones and ancient relics, it unfolds here.
all that is.
WHAT THE PCS DON’T KNOW The Sacrament of the Risen Abyss
Before history was even a notion, a demon prince named Ser- This great ritual is the central element to Sulvaugren’s plan.
trous ruled brutally over one of the Infinite Layers of the Abyss. Through a combination of blood sacrifice and dark rites, the
Hateful and predatory even by Abyssal standards, Sertrous sacrament forges a bond between the Abyss and the mortal world.
was among the first demons to take an interest in the develop- Creating that bond requires the remains of a mortal creature
ing races of the mortal world. Hoping to use their worship to with great mystical power. Steeped in prophecy, the bones of the
ascend to true divinity, he planned to overthrow and consume forgotten king best serve the Vanguard’s plan. When complete,
even the gods. the sacrament will allow the Vanguard to channel a fragment
Fortunately for the world, it was not to be. Even as Sertrous of Sertrous’s dream-self into a creature risen from the remains:
began his ascent to divinity, he and a number of other ancient a corrupt amalgamation of fiendish and undead essence.
demons faced an uprising of their Abyssal servitors. Those con- Most of the Vanguard believes that the sacrament is intended
spirators not banished to the depths of the plane were destroyed to place the spirit of Sertrous into the body of the risen king.
outright. However, Sertrous (along with a few of his minions) After converting his own people to the worship of Sertrous,
fled directly into the mortal world. the king will march at the head of an army of the living and the
Sertrous manifested as a serpentine entity with an insa- undead, converting other nations by the sword. In the end, an
tiable appetite for living creatures. A cult of yuan-ti and feral empire of Sertrous worshipers will elevate the Slumbering
humanoids formed around the demon, drawn to his strength Serpent to godhood.
and inevitably consumed in the name of his hunger. However, The leaders of the Vanguard know the darker truth. By
Sertrous granted a tiny measure of his own power to a handful of implanting fragments of Sertrous’s dream-self in the risen king,
these mortals, using them to explore this strange new plane. the demon will be able to directly experience and influence the
As the world grew civilized and worship of its deities spread, world for the first time since falling into slumber. The forgotten
Sertrous’s own power waned. Eventually, he fell into a seemingly king will indeed use the prophecy to rule the kingdom, but not
endless slumber. So potent had the demon become, however, that for the sake of converting neighboring lands. Rather, as Sertrous’s
even asleep he observed the mortal world. His hate-filled dreams influence expands, his vessels and minions will seek additional
drove Sertrous to an unearthly transformation—a manifest evil remains having enough power to repeat the Sacrament of the
of the Abyss and the Material Plane, equally bound to both. Risen Abyss. Eventually, enough of Sertrous’s dream-self will
The cult that had formed around Sertrous (known also as become active for the demon lord to truly awaken from his
the Slumbering Serpent) split in two. One faction continued millennial slumber. His strength returned to him, the demon
to worship the fallen demon lord as a demigod, while the other lord will rise as an unstoppable being of pure nihilistic hate
was driven by those Sertrous touched in dreams—infected and godlike power.
ADVENTURE SYNOPSIS
DEMONIC HISTORY The unnatural architecture of Castle Serastis presents as much
If you use Fiendish Codex I: Hordes of the Abyss in your cam- of a challenge to the PCs as the creatures that dwell within. The
paign, you know that Sertrous was one of the greatest of the castle features mystical portals, towers that do not connect to
obyriths, and that the revolt of the tanar’ri cast him from the main fortress, and a force of fanatics whose leaders are bent
power. Whether or not you are using that book, this infor- on the unraveling of all creation.
mation is not necessary to run the adventure. The adventure is divided into several sections.

The Surrounding Fields (Area F): When the PCs first adventurers capable of locating their missing loved ones and
approach Cettrux Hill, they notice a collection of outbuildings stopping the attacks.
and farmhouses. The slaves who serve the Vanguard of Sertrous The Castle Awakens: Something stirs in the halls of Castle
dwell here, and can provide valuable information and refuge for Serastis, a foreboding and alien edifice that has stood silent for
adventurers who free them from the oversight of the yuan-ti. years. Rumors or an old adventurer’s map might bring the PCs
The Central Keep (Area K): Here, the PCs make their initial here. Alternatively, they could be contacted by Ian Turbrand,
foray into Castle Serastis. An encounter with Vanguard zealots a prominent citizen of Kingsholm. Powerful relics and the
leads to the rescue of a number of prisoners bound for torture and remains of a great and ancient king were recently stolen from
sacrifice, and the discovery of dissent in the enemy’s ranks. the Kingsholm cemetery. Turbrand has learned that they were
The Tower of the Way (Area Y): This tower is the nexus of taken to Castle Serastis, and he offers the PCs 500 gp each for
the Vanguard’s operation. Through its many magic portals, the the return of the remains.
INTRODUCTION
followers of the Slumbering Serpent travel across the world seek-
ing components for their foul ritual. The PCs can also learn how
to use these portals and possibly hinder the Vanguard’s plans. DEFEATING THE
The Tower of the Word (Area D): As the Vanguard’s main
repository of knowledge and magic, this tower provides the PCs
RISEN KING
Though the forgotten king who rises from the bier in the
with an arsenal of tools and information. Here, they discover the
adventure’s climax is not the undead monstrosity the Vanguard
means by which they can disrupt the Sacrament of the Risen
intended to create, he remains a formidable challenge. Like any
Abyss and use the portals in the Tower of the Way. The PCs also
other adventure, Fortress of the Yuan-Ti is designed so that the
have a chance to turn a deadly enemy into a powerful ally—if
experience and treasure the PCs gain in the early stages can tip
they are willing to listen before they fight.
the balance of the final battle in their favor. However, because
The Tower of Worship (Area P): This center for the wor-
the bulk of the adventure turns on the party taking action to
ship of Sertrous as a deity is, in fact, a front designed to deceive
disrupt the Sacrament of the Risen Abyss, the PCs can gain an
the Vanguard’s own members. In this winding warren, the PCs
even more tangible benefit for use against the risen king.
have the opportunity to save more innocents bound for the
sacrificial altar.
The Tower of Worlds (Area S): This hidden tower exists out ACTION POINTS
of phase with the rest of castle (and, indeed, the Material Plane). Action points (introduced in the Unearthed Arcana supplement
Here, the PCs confront the true leaders of the Vanguard and and an integral part of the EBERRON Campaign Setting) give char-
must face the forgotten king himself—now a hideous undead acters the means to affect game play in significant ways. Using
animated by the power of the Slumbering Serpent. action points, the PCs can improve important rolls or unlock
special abilities.
Side Treks Under normal circumstances, each character has a limited
By traveling through the portals in the Tower of the Way, the number of action points that are replenished only upon attaining
PCs can prevent the Vanguard from acquiring vital elements a new level. This adventure uses a special system for accumulat-
of the sacrament at four far-flung locations (see the Appendix, ing and using action points. As the PCs progress through the
beginning on page 54): adventure, they build up a pool of special action points that any
The Bloody Grotto: This wellspring of natural beauty has of them can draw from during the final encounter with the risen
been corrupted by the actions of the Vanguard but still has power king (encounter S4-A, page 52). This action point pool is usable
for those who would avenge its destruction. only against the risen king. If you already use action points in
The Wretched Swamp: This stifling marsh holds a prize your campaign, do not add these special action points to those of
the Vanguard desperately seeks—as well as its vile green hag individual PCs (though any action points the PCs already possess
guardian. can be used during the final battle as normal). Any special action
The Caves of Horror: The lair of a lesser beholder holds points remaining after the risen king is defeated are lost.
another of the Vanguard’s objectives.
The Blasted Land: A horrific, twisted region of nightmare,
this alien landscape is the outskirts of Sertrous’s resting place.
USING ACTION POINTS
You can spend 1 action point to gain a bonus on a single d20 roll,
to take a special action, or to improve the use of a feat. Only 1
ADVENTURE HOOKS action point can be spent in a round. A character who spends
PCs can become involved in this adventure in a number of a point to use a special action or to improve a feat (see below)
ways. cannot spend another action point in the same round to add to
The Sinister Spire: If your group has completed DD2: a die roll, and vice versa.
The Sinister Spire, this adventure picks up immediately where
that one left off. The PCs arrive through the electric gate in Add to a Roll
Fadheela’s lair. When you spend an action point, add the result of a roll of 1d6
Missing Villagers: People have gone missing from far- to a d20 roll made against a target number (typically a skill
flung towns in the area. Their disappearances have been traced check, an ability check, an attack roll, or a saving throw). You
to a band of serpent-folk said to live in the vicinity of Cettrux can declare that you are spending an action point after you have
Hill. One group of villagers has put out a call for help, seeking already rolled the d20, but you must do so before you know
5

whether the result of the roll is a success or failure. Action points Collecting Action Points
cannot be used to alter the result of a d20 roll when taking 10
Throughout the adventure, the PCs have numerous oppor-
or taking 20.
tunities to interfere with the sacrament. They can acquire or
Depending on character level (see the table below), you might
destroy its components, slay the Vanguard’s leaders, and save
be able to roll more than one d6 when spending 1 action point.
prisoners who are destined to be sacrificed to Sertrous. Each
If so, apply the highest result and disregard the other rolls. For
such action adds to the special action point pool, as indicated
example, the player of an 8th-level character gets to roll 2d6
in the encounter text.
and take the better result. After rolls of 2 and 4, he would add
In game terms, the special action points gained by the PCs are
4 to his d20 roll.
a reflection of the true spirit of the forgotten king (the apparition
Character Action Point the PCs spoke to if they played through Barrow of the Forgotten
FORTRESS OF THE
Level Dice Rolled King). Though this spirit does not have the strength to oppose
1st–7th 1d6 the Vanguard’s debased plans, it can aid those who seek to disrupt
YUAN-TI
8th–14th 2d6 the Sacrament of the Risen Abyss. Just as the king’s spirit imparts
15th–20th 3d6 knowledge to the PCs, it grants them the power to turn possible
failure into heroic success. The more the PCs disrupt the sacrament,
Special Actions the stronger the true king’s spirit is during the final battle.
Instead of altering the result of a d20 roll, you can use action Although each objective that earns action points is marked
points to perform one of the special actions below. Unearthed where it appears in the adventure, a consolidated list is pre-
Arcana describes more special actions that can be performed sented here.
using action points.
Activate Class Feature: By spending 2 action points, you can Action Points Checklist
gain another use of one of the following class features that has Action
a limited number of uses per day: bardic music, rage, smite evil, PC Objective Area Points
Stunning Fist, turn or rebuke undead, or wild shape. Prevent yuan-ti from seizing
Extra Attack: During any round in which you take a full new victims F 1
Rescue prisoners from the dungeon K10 1
attack action, you can spend 1 action point to make an extra
Acquire or destroy the purple powder D2 1
attack at your highest attack bonus. Action points can be used Kill Tolvul D5 4
in this way with both melee and ranged attacks. Ally with Zoldathra D7 2
Spell Boost: You can spend 1 action point as a free action Kill Vsolt P3 3
to increase the effective caster level of one of your spells by 2. Rescue the prisoners from the P4 2
You must decide whether or not to spend an action point in this sacrificial altar
manner before casting the spell. Acquire or destroy the phylactery Wretched 2
Stabilize: You can spend 1 action point to stabilize a dying Swamp
character at his or her current hit point total. Spending an action Acquire or destroy the Sertrous- Blasted 2
point does nothing if a character is already dead. touched stone Land
Improving Feats
Characters can improve existing feats using action points. Unless
otherwise noted, each effect requires a free action to activate and Fortress of the Yuan-Ti
lasts 1 round. Unearthed Arcana describes more ways to improve If the PCs are continuing from The Sinister Spire, they begin this
feats using action points. adventure by passing through the electric gate in Fadheela’s lair.
Blind-Fight: You can spend 1 action point to negate your Otherwise, they arrive at the end of whatever route they followed
miss chance for a single attack. to reach Cettrux Hill or Castle Serastis.
Combat Expertise: You can spend 1 action point to double
the bonus to Armor Class granted by the feat. For example, if When the PCs arrive on the hilltop, read:
you take a penalty of –3 on your attack roll, you gain a +6 dodge You stand atop a small rise. Before you lies a wide river valley nestled
bonus to AC. between a range of forested hills. A number of wooden buildings, mostly
Dodge: You can spend 1 action point to increase the dodge barns and storage sheds, are set in a rough semicircle on the floor of the
bonus granted by the feat to +2. This effect lasts for the entire vale. Carefully planted fields spread to all sides, while a shallow stream
encounter. flows to the northwest. Though isolated, this place appears to be a typi-
Power Attack: You can spend 1 action point to double the cal farming community.
bonus on damage rolls granted by the feat. For example, if Looming over it all, however, is a sight that belies the mundane
you take a penalty of –3 on your attack roll, you add 6 to your appearance of the vale. Recessed into a west-facing cliff is a massive for-
damage roll. tress of dark stone, deeply shadowed by the hollow in which it stands. You
Spell Focus: You can spend 1 action point to double the can make out few details, but even from here, the citadel’s arrangement
increase to save DCs granted by the feat, from +1 to +2. of protrusions and towers is unlike any fortress you have ever seen.
Spell Penetration: You can spend 1 action point to double
the bonus on caster level checks granted by the feat, from +2 to If the PCs descend the hill, they enter the fields and farms that
+4. This effect lasts for the entire encounter. supply Castle Serastis (area F).
6

in the past. Whatever horrors that place hides, they appear to
F. THE SURROUNDING FIELDS be escalating.”
The map depicting this area appears on the following page. • “We thank you for your efforts, but I fear that few of us are
This open valley is home to a colony of humanoid slaves taken strong enough to travel far. The snake-folk allow us little
by the yuan-ti from isolated communities in nearby lands. Their food or sleep. Even if we could leave, we would not get far
labor keeps the Vanguard supplied with crops, cattle, wood, and enough to escape should they try to hunt us down. We will
water. The slaves are overseen by a vicious naga taskmaster and pray for your success, but as long as the snake-folk rule
her pet dire snake. Castle Serastis, we remain slaves.”
The slaves are an equal mix of male and female, consisting • “If you intend to enter Serastis, beware. A horrible skeletal
primarily of humans, halflings, and a small number of dwarves. lizard-creature appears there when the main door is open.
They are all low-level commoners, and they never participate We have also overheard guards whisper of strange magic
FORTRESS OF THE
in battle. controlling movement within the place.”
YUAN-TI
When the PCs approach, read: If the PCs have made Clora helpful, she adds:
The settlement’s crops appear to be mostly wheat, tall stalks rippling
in the breeze. You spot numerous humans and halflings working the
fields, but as you approach, you can see that their torn clothes are as
filthy as their faces. Their features are gaunt as they look up at you,
eyes bereft of hope.
Describe each individual structure (below) as the PCs draw

near, up to the point where the dark naga Lieth or her dire snake
companion notice the party’s approach with a Spot check. This
triggers the tactical encounter.
Tactical Encounter: F. The Surrounding Fields, page 28.
Friends in Low Places: Once the PCs defeat Lieth and her
pet, a group of slaves timidly approaches them. Their apparent
Illus. by D. Grifﬁth
leader, a middle-aged woman named Clora (NG female human
commoner 4), speaks for the group.
Clora thanks the PCs for slaying or chasing off the taskmas-
ter, but she is distrustful of their motives. She begins with an
attitude of indifferent. If the PCs cannot improve her attitude,
Clora and the other slaves return to their living quarters, wait-
ing to see what comes of the party’s intervention. If she can be
made friendly or helpful, however, she is willing to speak with
the PCs further.
If the PCs avoided putting the slaves in danger during combat,
they gain a +4 bonus on Diplomacy checks with Clora. If they
express concern for the slaves’ well-being by offering water, food,
or healing, they gain a +2 bonus.
Clora and the other slaves can give the party general informa-
tion regarding the Vanguard and Castle Serastis, but they
know nothing of the organization’s true plans or the
layout of the fortress. Read or paraphrase the following
in response to the players’ questions.
• “The castle is called Serastis—a horrible place

inhabited by hideous snake-folk. Some are almost
human, while others are like giant serpents with
hands. Gods only know what they do in there.”
• “Only a few of us are native to these lands, for the
snake-folk are careful not too attract the atten-
tion of the closer villages. Most of our number
were captured on the road or in distant settle-
ments, brought here to serve the masters of the
castle. We toil so that they might eat and keep
warm. Those who take sick or become too weak for
laboring are taken to the castle and never seen again.”
• “There has been much activity in Serastis over the past few
months. Many more groups of snake-folk go in and out than
Even getting water is a hazard for slaves of the yuan-ti
7

FORTRESS OF THE
YUAN-TI
• “The snake-folk have difficulty telling us ‘mammals’ apart. This shelter features a number of rickety bunk beds, each with a thin
Should you need a place to hide, we might be able to pass you straw pallet and a filthy blanket. Other than a few chamber pots, the
off as slaves for a time.” only amenities are pegs in the walls for hanging clothes.
If the PCs take Clora up on this offer later, they can spend a
night sleeping in the slaves’ quarters, safe from interruption
F2. STORAGE
These square structures, the largest of any in the settlement,
or attack.
have wide doors and no windows.
A SECOND RESCUE If the PCs look inside, read:

If the PCs succeed in rescuing the prisoners from the dungeon The bulk of the space here is taken up by a few spare cots, canisters of
(area K9) or the reliquary (area P4), a Vanguard patrol enters the flour and whole grains, bales of straw, and bundles of firewood. Sides
slave community in search of new sacrifices to power the sacra- of beef are piled haphazardly—some salted, a greater number freshly
ment. See the Taking Prisoners sidebar (page 28) for details. If the slaughtered and buzzing with flies.
PCs defend the slaves against such kidnapping, Clora’s attitude
immediately shifts to helpful if it is not so already. The storage buildings are roughly 15 feet in height, and con-
Ad Hoc XP Award: If the PCs manage to make Clora friendly tain goods bound for the castle. The salted beef is for the small
or helpful, award additional XP as though they had overcome number of humanoid cultists serving the Vanguard. The yuan-ti
a CR 2 encounter. prefer their meals raw.
Action Points: Preventing the yuan-ti from seizing new
sacrifice victims earns the PCs 1 action point.
F3. BARNS
Even at a distance, these buildings are easily identified.
F1. LIVING QUARTERS
These rough buildings stand 10 feet tall. If the PCs look inside, read:
The smell of sweet hay and manure hangs above rows of stalls designed
If the PCs enter or look into the barracks, read: to house a herd of cows.

During the day, the cows and a small group of slaves (their ankles A single tower adorned with serpentine waterspouts is connected to
manacled to ensure they do not run) can be found in the field to the central keep by a diagonal arm of stone. It juts upward, blocking part
the north of the map. At night, the cows sleep here. The barns of your view of the cliff face above the hollow. Two wider towers hang
are 10 feet in height. down from the top of the hollow like fangs in a great stone mouth.
Although any observer can tell that the castle’s construction is

F4. PEN odd, a successful DC 15 Knowledge (architecture and engineer-
The slaves’ lone plow horse lives here. She is in better shape than
ing) check confirms that the fortress exhibits traits of yuan-ti
most of the slaves, but is not trained to carry riders.
construction.
F5. PAVILION
FORTRESS OF THE
This odd structure is open to the west, with flimsy wooden walls ADVENTURING IN
YUAN-TI
on the north, east, and south sides. Its roof is a simple layer of
canvas. If asked, Clora or another slave reveals that Lieth can be
CASTLE SERASTIS
The bulk of the Vanguard is based within this ancient fortress,
found here when she is not doling out punishment.
and the PCs face formidable opposition as they attempt to infil-
If weight of 100 pounds or more is placed atop the canvas, the
trate. A party might have to make multiple forays within the
roof tears and comes down in 1 round.
castle, with the PCs hiding out among the slaves or in unused
chambers to rest up when necessary.
F6. THE WELL
This well is the slave community’s water source, and its output
is muddy but drinkable. The small roof over it is 10 feet high.
STANDARD FEATURES
The following features are standard throughout the castle unless
Griffon-Eater (Lieth’s pet dire snake) frequently coils around
otherwise noted.
the well, hissing menacingly at the slaves who come to fetch
Strong Wooden Door: 2 inches thick; hardness 5, hp 20,
water.
break DC 25 (locked). Doors are unlocked and open easily unless
otherwise noted; those that are locked require a DC 25 Open
F7. TOOL SHED Lock check.
This small wooden building contains a jumble of rakes, hoes,
spades, and other farming tools. Their hafts are deliberately
weakened and shortened by the yuan-ti to prevent their use as
makeshift weapons. If they are used as such, they give an addi-
tional –2 penalty on attack rolls and a –1 penalty on damage
rolls over and above the penalties normally applied to makeshift
weapons. Each tool breaks after 1d4 successful attacks.
F8. THE BOX

This iron box is a torture device of Lieth’s own design.
When the PCs examine the box, read:

What appeared at first to be a building is little more than a rusty iron
crate about 6 feet on a side. A sliding door on the east side is sealed by
an equally rusted padlock.
Lieth is fond of placing disobedient slaves within the box for

anywhere from a few hours to a few days. Not many survive the
latter punishment. In summer, temperatures within can reach
over 120 degrees.
CASTLE SERASTIS
The maps depicting levels 1 through 5 of Castle Serastis appear
on the inside covers of this book.
When the PCs approach the fortress, read:

More details of the castle’s bizarre structure become clear as you approach,
though its exterior remains shrouded in layers of shadow. The central
keep boasts a balcony near the top, adorned with serpentine figures. Great
stone steps some 20 feet wide lead up to a pair of huge brass doors on the
second level of the keep. You see no means of entry to the first level.
The mighty Castle Serastis, headquarters of the Vanguard 9

Secret Door (Stone): 4 inches thick; hardness 8, hp 60, break Random Encounters
DC 28 (locked); Search DC 22. All secret doors require a DC 28 d20 Encounter
Open Lock or a DC 25 Disable Device check to open, unless 1–2 Human patrol
otherwise noted. 3–6 Pureblood patrol
Illumination: The yuan-ti have darkvision, and most areas of 7–10 Halfblood patrol
11–12 Abomination patrol
the fortress have no light sources. Rooms with active portals are
13–15 Lone abomination
lit by their green glow, and wall sconces imbued with continual 16–20 Roll on the Special Encounters table
flame light those areas where creatures without darkvision are
routinely found (as described in the text). Human patrols carry
Special Encounters
everburning torches when moving within the castle and resting Central Tower of Tower of Tower of
in the barracks.
FORTRESS OF THE
d10 Keep the Way the Word Worship

Ceilings: Ceilings in the castle are between 10 and 15 feet 1–6 Lizardfolk Yuan-ti Scale Wight patrol
YUAN-TI
high. patrol ignan golem

7–10 Yuan-ti Yuan-ti Yuan-ti Yuan-ti dread
ignan wizard wizard necromancer
RANDOM ENCOUNTERS
The Vanguard is on high alert while the Sacrament of the Risen
Special encounters are specific to the portion of the fortress in
Abyss is underway. Though the servants of the Slumbering
which they occur. Each of these encounters can occur only a set
Serpent might remain unaware that the PCs are at large in the
number of times. Once this number is exceeded, no encounter
castle, their agents have met substantial resistance while gather-
occurs if the same result comes up on future random encoun-
ing the ritual’s components. Castle Serastis is heavily patrolled,
ter checks.
and invaders can expect to run into Vanguard operatives on a
Human Patrol (EL 6): Three human 1st-level fighters (DMG
regular basis.
117) led by a human 5th-level rogue (DMG 123). This encounter
Certain areas have their own rules for random encounters,
can occur no more than six times.
as noted in the descriptive text. In other areas, the frequency of
Pureblood Patrol (EL 5–7): 1d3+1 yuan-ti purebloods (page
random encounter checks and the odds that such an encoun-
29 or MM 263). This encounter can occur no more than eight
ter occurs vary throughout the adventure. Initially, a random
times.
encounter occurs on a roll of 1 on a d10. Check for random
Halfblood Patrol (EL 5–8): 1d3 yuan-ti halfbloods (MM 264).
encounters under any of the following circumstances:
This encounter can occur no more than four times.
• The PCs spend more than 30 minutes in one area.
Abomination Patrol (EL 8): One yuan-ti abomination (MM
• The PCs enter an unkeyed area or a keyed area that does not
264) and either two purebloods or one halfblood (50% chance of
contain a tactical encounter. If the party leaves such an area
either). This encounter can occur no more than twice.
for more than 1 hour, roll again when they return.
Lone Abomination (EL 7): This encounter can occur no
If and when the PCs ally with Zoldathra (area D7), the half-
more than twice.
fiend uses his influence to steer patrols away from areas he
Lizardfolk Patrol (EL 6–7): 1d2+1 poison dusk lizardfolk
expects the PCs to be in, and offers them tips on choosing rooms
4th-level rangers (page 35 or MM3 97). This encounter can occur
that are less likely to be guarded. From this point on, a random
no more than three times.
encounter occurs only on a roll of 1 on a d20. Check for random
Yuan-Ti Ignan (EL 7): See page 59 or MM4 188. This encoun-
encounters under the same circumstances as above, but allow the
ter can occur no more than three times.
PCs to leave an area for up to 2 hours before rolling again.
Scale Golem (EL 7): See page 39. This encounter can occur
If a random encounter occurs, roll 1d20 and consult the table
only once.
below. These creatures and groups roam the fortress in addition
Wight Patrol (EL 5–7): 1d3+1 wights (MM 255) or baboon
to those found in the tactical encounters. For example, a random
wights (page 43). This encounter can occur only once.
encounter with a scale golem does not remove the scale golem
Yuan-Ti Wizard (EL 6): See page 36 for typical statistics,
from tactical encounter D1, nor does defeating the scale golem
changing the spell list and specialization as you see fit. This
in that area remove it from the random encounter table.
encounter can occur no more than twice.
Yuan-Ti Dread Necromancer (EL 7): See page 44 for typical
statistics. This encounter can occur only once.
ALIGNED STRIKE AND MAGIC STRIKE RESCUING PRISONERS

Some creatures encountered in Castle Serastis and other
In areas K10 and P4, the PCs have the opportunity to rescue
linked adventure areas have these notations in the Atk prisoners held by the Vanguard. Even after defeating the guards,
Options line of their stat blocks. the party must escort the prisoners out of Castle Serastis. The
Aligned Strike: Attacks made by a creature that has this slaves outside are willing to hide escaped prisoners until they
ability are treated as aligned for the purpose of overcoming are strong enough to flee the area.
damage reduction. The specific alignments are noted in PCs who simply turn the prisoners loose and tell them to make
parentheses following the entry. a break for it earn no XP or action points. They are likely to find
Magic Strike: Natural weapon attacks made by a creature familiar faces on the corpses of sacrificial victims later on.
with this ability are treated as magic for the purpose of
damage reduction.
10

the fortress. Any patrol appears from the base of the stairs and
K: THE CENTRAL KEEP fires at the PCs through the bars.
The keep makes up the bulk of Castle Serastis, though it contains If all else fails, the PCs can wait until someone opens the door
none of the locations most important to the Vanguard. from the inside. If this occurs, they encounter a patrol of four
yuan-ti purebloods (this counts as one of the eight pureblood
patrols that can be encountered). Unfortunately, patrols depart
K1. THE SERPENTS’ STAIR by the main door only every 2d12 hours.
The Vanguard expected Lieth to serve as sentry as well as task-
master, so the entrance to the castle is unguarded. Gaining access
to the interior is not easy, however. K3. THE GREAT HALL
The massive foyer of Castle Serastis is built to impress.
FORTRESS OF THE
When the PCs climb the stairs, read:
The massive brass doors are set roughly 10 feet into the fortress, creat- When the PCs enter, read:
YUAN-TI
ing a small foyer—or perhaps a kill zone—between the stairs and The enormous hall you find yourself in is as large as a castle keep. Much
the entry. of the chamber is open to the level above, allowing anyone on the floor
above to look down upon it. Two large winches, their handles carved
If Lieth succeeded in fleeing to the fortress after the to resemble striking cobras, flank the double door. Across the chamber,
encounter in area F, read: clear water glints within a circular marble pool, but your gaze is drawn
A brass portcullis at the top of the steps prevents access to the doors. beyond it to a massive reptilian skeleton at the back of the hall.
If Lieth was kept from reaching the fortress, read:

Above the highest step, recessed into the ceiling, you can see where a
great brass portcullis is currently raised.
The door (area K2) and the portcullis (if down) are formidable
obstacles. Both are solid iron gilded with brass.
Iron Portcullis: 2 inches thick; hardness 10, hp 30, break
DC 28; Strength DC 25 to lift.
CR 1; mechanical; location trigger; manual reset; Atk +10
melee (3d6); Search DC 22 (to find the mechanism; the port-
cullis is obvious); Disable Device DC 20.
The damage applies only to creatures underneath the port-
cullis if it drops. Such creatures are knocked prone and held
in place until the portcullis is lifted or they succeed on a DC
20 Escape Artist check.
If it is not already down, the portcullis might be triggered
by the PCs’ actions in area K2.
K2. THE MOUTH OF SERASTIS

The portcullis and the door can be opened only from the
inside (see K3).
When the PCs approach the doors, read:

As you approach the double doors, their detail becomes visible in
the shadows. Both brass portals are covered in hideous engravings
of demonic serpentine figures.
Barred Iron Door: 2 inches thick; hardness 10, hp 60,

break DC 38.
The doors are held shut by a system of winches and coun-
terweights, and must be disabled or forced. A successful
DC 22 Search check reveals a few thin openings around
the door frame that allow access to the cables. A successful
DC 22 Disable Device check causes the counterweights to
release and the doors to creak slowly open.
The counterweight system is tricky. If the first Disable
Device check fails by 5 or more, the portcullis in area K1 drops
with a loud crash, potentially trapping PCs in the kill zone. Roll
for random encounters as though the trapped PCs were inside
In the halls of Castle Serastis,
even extinction is temporary 11

The winches control access to the central keep. The south winch
opens and closes the great door (K2), while the north winch
K5. KITCHEN
Though this kitchen is small relative to the size of the castle,
raises and lowers the portcullis (K1).
only the castle’s humanoids use it for cooking. The yuan-ti prefer
A shallow stair (barely more than a ramp) curves upward and
their meat raw—most often beef, but occasionally slaves from
around from the south side of the room, eventually leading to
the valley that are eaten alive.
area K15.
Illumination: Continual flame wall sconces shed bright light
Give the PCs time to take in the room from the doorway if
throughout this area.
they have been cautious enough to advance unseen. However, any
character who enters the hall triggers the tactical encounter.
When the PCs look in, read:
Tactical Encounter: K3. The Great Hall, page 30.
This rough kitchen is dominated by a stone table, its surface marred
The battle with Prath and the guardian makes substantial
FORTRESS OF THE
by deep gouges and bloodstains. Pungent slabs of beef are stacked in the
noise. As long as the PCs remain in this area, check for random
southwest corner. A few dim embers glow in a firepit to the northeast.
YUAN-TI
encounters every 5 minutes. (If the party leaves this area and
A blackened humanoid skull lies shattered in the ashes.
returns more than 1 hour later, random encounters revert to
normal.)
No random encounters occur in this room except as noted in
Random Encounters: Roll for a random encounter in area
area K4. A small grate in the floor (Spot DC 10) serves the same
K15 any time the PCs pass through area K3. If an encounter
purpose as the grate in the dining room.
occurs, the guards in K15 snipe from above. Characters adja-
Treasure: Hanging on hooks next to the slabs of meat are a
cent to the railing in K15 have line of sight to anyone below, as
half-dozen oversized knives and cleavers. Though they appear
described in area K15 (page 15).
nondescript, they are sturdy enough to serve as improvised
Treasure: In addition to Prath’s possessions (see the tactical
weapons (treat as daggers and handaxes).
encounter), anyone examining the pool sees a 12-inch-wide
silver inlay at the bottom in the shape of a coiled serpent. A
successful DC 22 Search check notes chipped stone around it, K6. TORTURE CHAMBER
revealing that it can be pried off (a DC 15 Strength check). The The doors of this room are locked.
silver icon is worth 1,500 gp. Illumination: Continual flame wall sconces shed bright light
K4. DINING HALL When the PCs open the doors, read:
The cult’s minions take their meals in this area.
Beyond the doors lies a true chamber of horrors. A rack and an iron
maiden stand next to terrible contraptions of cables, needles, and cuffs
whose purpose is best not guessed at. The floor is stained with dried
blood, a red-black pool spreading around a rusty iron grate in the
When the PCs enter, read:
center of the floor.
This lengthy chamber boasts a pair of heavy wooden tables and a
number of rough chairs. Dried bloodstains on the wood give a hint to
The builders of Castle Serastis placed the torture chamber on
the nature of the foul repasts consumed here.
the level above the cells, so that the castle’s masters would not
have to enter the dungeons for interrogations or entertainment.
The secret door leads to a sloping and winding passageway that
The iron grate allows spilled blood to flow into the same series of
connects to the barracks (K16A). A small grate in the floor (Spot
pipes as those found in K4 and K5. A shallow stair in the north
DC 10) allows spilled liquids and detritus to be swept down into
side of the room leads to the cells below (K9).
a series of pipes leading to the garbage pit (K11). The pipes are
Random Encounters: The first random encounter occurring
too small for anything larger than a rat to pass through.
here involves the torture of a prisoner (Rollin, from cell K10C).
Random Encounters: Any random encounter here is with a
His tormentors want no information from him; they are merely
human or yuan-ti patrol on dinner break. Its members are gath-
amusing themselves. If rescued, Rollin tells the PCs of the other
ered at a table, though one has a 20% chance of being found in
prisoners below, warns them of Yensurros (see K9), and can offer
the kitchen (K5). This character appears in 2 rounds if combat
any of the information described in K10.
breaks out.
Any random encounters here after the PCs free the prison-
The abominations do not eat here. If a group with an abomi-
ers from the dungeon involve patrols simply passing through
nation is indicated, reroll.
the area.
Tables and Chairs: Squares occupied by tables or chairs are
Torture Devices: Squares occupied by torture devices are
considered difficult terrain, and tables provide cover to adjacent
considered difficult terrain and provide cover to adjacent char-
characters. A character can step up onto a table as a move action,
acters. Anyone bull rushed or otherwise knocked into a torture
gaining a +1 bonus on melee attack rolls against those on the
device takes 2d4 points of additional damage from its spikes,
floor. Two characters working together can tip over a table to
blades, or other external trappings.
provide cover against ranged attacks.
K6A. Temporary Cells: The locked doors to these cells fea-
ture small barred windows.
If the PCs look within, read:

These small rooms contain nothing but piles of moldy straw.
12

Prisoners awaiting torture are moved with unblinking eyes. However, though his clawed talons
from the cells below into these holding clench the hilt of a spear, he makes no move to attack.
pens. The yuan-ti believe (correctly) that
hearing the screams of those who go Chavakuth was a druid of the Dark Talon
before them weakens the prisoners’ will tribe (MM4 83) before becoming a faithful
before interrogation even begins. servant and worshiper of Sertrous. For all
his zealotry, however, he has never lost
his seething hatred of other lizardfolk
K7. MEETING HALL tribes—particularly the poison dusks
The door between this chamber and K6
that have taken up a position
is locked; the others are not.
of prominence within the
FORTRESS OF THE
castle guard. He is will-
When the PCs enter, read:
YUAN-TI
ing to cooperate with
This large open chamber appears to be an
the PCs if it means
audience hall. A raised dais sits against
striking at those ances-
the east wall, complete with a
tral rivals.
stone podium adorned with
If the PCs do not
serpentine carvings.
attack, a DC 18 Diplo-
macy check engages
Once one of the most
Chavakuth in conversa-
vital areas of Castle Serastis,
tion. (Characters speaking
the meeting hall has seen little
Draconic gain a +3 circumstance
use in the past few months. The
bonus on the check.) If the PCs
Vanguard’s servants know their
fail the Diplomacy check, make any
assignments, and any councils
overtly hostile move, or demand
now take place in the castle’s
more aid than Chavakuth is willing
shrines.
to give, they trigger the tactical
The secret door opens onto
encounter.
a twisting passage. This slopes
down to the passage outside
The enemy of my enemy . . . Tactical Encounter: K8. The
K13 and up to the passage con-
Lesser Shrine, page 31.
necting the barracks (K16).
Diplomacy: If the PCs speak to Chavakuth, he reveals the
Hidden Pit Trap: CR 3; mechanical; location trigger; manual
following information as part of a careful and tentative back-
reset; DC 20 Reflex save avoids; 30 feet deep (3d6, fall); multiple
and-forth. Read the following in response to player questions,
targets (first target in each of two adjacent squares); Search DC
extrapolating as appropriate. (Chavakuth’s halting speech results
24; Disable Device DC 18. Characters falling into this pit end
from his speaking Common only infrequently. If one of the PCs
up in cell K10F.
speaks Abyssal, Draconic, or Druidic, alter it accordingly.)
This pit is activated by a hidden switch on the lectern (Search
DC 24), and was used to publicly punish cultists whose faith was
• “I am Chavakuth. I am shaman of Dark Talon tribe. I serve
found lacking. Though the trap has not been used in some time,
the Sertrous, master of all.”
the patrols know to avoid it. The trap is triggered by 40 pounds or
• “All Vanguard readies for the Sertrous to awaken. His sacra-
more of pressure, but anyone who searches the podium and finds
ment nearly complete.”
the switch can deactivate it (no Disable Device check needed).
• “You cannot defeat the Sertrous or his Vanguard. No mortal
Dais: Characters on the dais gain a +1 bonus on melee attack
can. But maybe you survive to flee. Maybe I help you sur-
rolls against those on the floor or a lower step.
vive, yes? And you help me back, yes?”
• “Tiny poison dusk tribe also worship the Sertrous. They
K8. THE LESSER SHRINE dirty his Vanguard with being here. I tell you where to find
The faithful of Sertrous use this shrine for brief prayers and poison dusk, you kill. Vanguard purified, and I help you sur-
ceremonies when they have no time to travel to the Tower of vive. Yes?”
Worship.
Though Chavakuth hates the poison dusk lizardfolk and is
When the PCs look in, read: willing to aid the PCs against them, he will not turn traitor
The walls of this rectangular chamber are covered in carvings. What against the Vanguard as a whole. Any attempt to make him do
first seems a group of serpentine figures reveals itself to be a single, so results in violence.
impossibly long snake with numerous heads along the length of its If the PCs agree to his bargain, Chavakuth gives them specific
body. Near the west wall stands an altar slab of black marble atop an directions to the poison dusk guards in the passage (K18) to the
iron stand in the form of a coiled cobra. Tower of the Way. He also directs them to one of the wandering
Standing beside the altar is a tall, broad-shouldered lizardfolk clad poison dusk patrols (so that the next random encounter is with
in green leather. His dusky scales are almost black, and he stares at you a poison dusk group).
13

The PCs can obtain additional aid from Chavakuth, but only 10A: Selirra (CG female elf adept 2). Selirra lacks her holy
after bringing back proof of having slain at least one group of symbol, so she cannot cast any spell requiring a divine focus.
poison dusks and promising to slay another. If one of the party 10B: Aldros (N male human commoner 1). Aldros was taken
is injured in the first raid, the druid offers his potion of cure mod- from the slave community in the vale (area F).
erate wounds as a boon for the PCs’ service. If pressed for greater 10C: Rollin (LG male human expert 3). If the PCs had a
assistance, he agrees to let the characters rest in the shrine for random encounter in the torture chamber, they encountered
one night. Additionally, if the PCs succeed on a DC 23 Diplo- Rollin there (leaving this cell empty).
macy check (again with a +3 circumstance bonus for speaking 10D: Thoburk (CN male orc warrior 1). Thoburk insists on
Draconic), he reluctantly tells them of the prisoners in the cells aiding his captors in combat, where he likely gets himself killed.
below (K9 and K10), showing them the secret door in the south A DC 20 Diplomacy check convinces him to leave.
wall of the shrine. 10E: Illria (N female halfling rogue 2). Illria stumbled across
FORTRESS OF THE
Allowing the prisoners to escape is the closest Chavakuth Castle Serastis as a wandering adventurer, and was caught when
YUAN-TI
comes to betraying the Vanguard. He refuses any requests she tried to break in.
beyond that, and attacks if the PCs attempt to force the issue. 10F: This cell is empty unless someone has fallen through
The passage behind the secret door slopes downward, provid- the pit trap in area K7.
ing access to K13 and to a hidden exit from the fortress. 10G: Daverov (LN male dwarf aristocrat 4). Daverov insists
Ad Hoc XP Award: If the PCs deal with the encounter dip- on learning the hometowns of the PCs so he can send them a
lomatically from beginning to end, award them XP as if they reward (200 gp each) for his rescue.
had successfully overcome a CR 6 encounter. 10H: Kaleb (CN male human warrior 2). Kaleb was a hired
guard in his distant hometown. When drunk on duty, he was
taken unawares by the yuan-ti.
K9. THE DUNGEON 10I: Maneri (LN female human aristocrat 2). Maneri owned
A noticeable chill can be felt as PCs approach this area.
the gallery Kaleb was supposed to be guarding, and was cap-
Illumination: A pair of continual flame sconces light both
tured when he was.
ends of the chamber. The northernmost and southernmost 30
10J: Male human corpse.
feet of the area are brightly illuminated, while the central 40-
10K: Ossuru (CE female yuan-ti pureblood; page 29 or MM
foot area has only shadowy illumination.
263). A former guard, Ossuru failed in her assignments once
too often. If freed, she might attempt to escape with the others,
When the PCs enter the area, read:
or she could attack the PCs in hopes of regaining her position
These shadowy corridors are filled with a foul stench. Row upon row
(50% chance of either).
of cell doors line the halls. Ragged breathing and the occasional sob
Treasure: Hidden by layers of dirty straw, an adamantine
suggest that at least a few of the cells are occupied.
dagger (smuggled in by a long-gone prisoner) is wedged into
a crack in the floor of cell 10J. A successful DC 26 Strength
The PCs might not know it, but they are in as much danger as
check frees it.
the prisoners here. They are watched by the ghost of Yensurros,
Action Points: If the PCs free all the prisoners (possibly ex-
a yuan-ti so devoted to Sertrous that he remained behind after
cepting Thoburk and Ossuru) and escort them out of the castle,
death to continue his service as assistant inquisitor and chief
they earn 1 action point.
jailer. Lurking invisibly, Yensurros observes the PCs until he
feels he has their measure. He then attacks, triggering the tac-
tical encounter. K11. GARBAGE PIT
A shallow stair in the north wall curves up and around to the As the PCs approach the western portions of K9 and K10, they
torture chamber (K6). might catch a hint of the reek in this area.
Tactical Encounter: K9. The Dungeon, page 32.
A horrific stench of rot and filth assails you, making your eyes water.
K10. CELLS The reek emanates from an enormous pit 20 feet in diameter, its edges
Lettered cell doors are locked, while other cells have a 50%
littered with rotting offal and green sludge.
chance of being open. See the K9 tactical encounter for statistics
on these doors, which are tougher than normal. Each door has
Upon first entering this area, all characters are sickened for
a small barred window.
2d4 minutes (Fortitude DC 15 negates). The tactical encounter
is triggered as soon as a PC enters the pit or spends more than
When the PCs look in, read:
2 rounds within 15 feet of its edge.
This desolate 10-foot-by-10-foot cell contains dirty straw and a chamber
Tactical Encounter: K11. Garbage Pit, page 34.
pot.
Gophodros is merely the latest in a line of otyughs that has
dwelt in the refuse pit of the castle since the days Sertrous
Nine of the cells are occupied, but the PCs likely have little
himself slept above. Their exposure to the lingering power of
chance to examine them until after their fight with Yensurros.
the elder evil has mutated them into spellwarped creatures
Unless otherwise noted, all freed prisoners are happy to aid
(MM3 162).
the PCs with whatever knowledge they can provide, but they
are too weak to fight.
14

Treasure: If a truly strong-stomached individual searches
inside the pit, a successful DC 24 Search check reveals a ring of
K14. TEMPORARY STORAGE
This chamber is more heavily secured than the others. The
counterspells lost down one of the drainage grates of K4 or K5. It
door is locked.
currently has charm person cast within it.
Iron-Reinforced Wooden Door: 1 foot thick; hardness 5,
hp 150, break DC 25.
K12. STORAGE CHAMBERS A permanent alarm spell on the door mentally alerts one of
These doors are locked, but they feature lower-quality locks than the yuan-ti wizards. If it is triggered, a pureblood or halfblood
most areas of the castle (Open Lock DC 20). patrol is sent to investigate.
When the PCs open the door, read: When the door is opened, read:
FORTRESS OF THE
This chamber is stocked with all manner of This room is immaculate. Shelves line
supplies, stacked on shelves, standing in bar- the walls, all empty except for where
YUAN-TI
rels, and hanging on pegs. a pair of pearls gleams in the light.
On a table in the center of the room
12A: This chamber contains lies a set of gleaming black scale
six suits of studded leather mail.
armor, six suits
of leather armor, The Vanguard uses this
four chain shirts, room to store magic
two sets of scale items until they can
mail, a breast- be claimed or iden-
plate, four heavy tified. (By keeping
steel shields, them here rather
eight light steel than in the labora-
shields, three tory of the Tower
heavy wooden of the Word, the
shields, four light Vanguard avoids
wooden shields, and showing favorit-
four bucklers. ism to its arcan-
12B: This chamber ists when it comes
contains twenty-four to assigning new
backpacks, twenty- acquisitions.)
four bedrolls, fi fty No random en-
candles, six crow- counters occur in
bars, four hooded this room. However,
lanterns, four if the alarm spell on
pints of lamp oil, the door is triggered,
thirty-six days’ a random encounter
worth of trail ra- occurs when the PCs
tions, 250 feet of exit back into area
hemp rope in 50-foot K11.
sections, two sledgeham- Treasure: The armor
mers, six tents, and six on the table is Nanietharil
sunrods. (page 26). The Vanguard has not
12C: This chamber contains yet decided which member has
twelve scimitars, six heavy maces, four the best claim to it. On the shelf
longbows, eight shortbows, and twelve Even the garbage is deadly here are two pearls of power (one 1st- level, one
quivers of twenty arrows each. 2nd-level).
If the PCs have not played through Barrow of the Forgotten
King, the sword Merthúvial is also here. If you lack access to the
K13. HIDDEN EXIT sword’s legacy abilities as presented in that adventure, treat it as
This appears to be another chamber of mundane equipment,
a +1 longsword with the ability to bypass the risen king’s damage
nearly identical to K12B. However, this door has a standard lock
reduction (see tactical encounter S4-A, page 52).
(Open Lock DC 25).
The secret door leads to a winding passageway providing
access to the shrine (K8) and to a secret exit from the fortress. K15. THE INTERIOR BALCONY
(From the outside, the secret entrance can be found only with A character against the railing has line of sight to anyone in
a DC 30 Spot check.) area K3, unless they are beneath the balcony on the same side
of the room.
15

When the characters enter this area, read: When the PCs are within sight of the stair, read:
This open area appears to be the central hub of the castle’s corridors. A long straight stair with unusually shallow steps leads up to a closed
Doors and stairs exit in all directions. A brass railing surrounds the double door. Before the doors, two reptilian humanoids roughly the
edge of a balcony that looks down on the great hall below. Massive size of gnomes stand watch.
chandeliers, now darkened, hang from the high ceiling.
The poison dusk guards here are two of the targets Chavakuth
One southern stair and the shallow stairs to the north lead up wants the PCs to kill. Whether or not the characters have allied
to K21. The other southern stair leads down to K3. with the druid, they must go through these guards to enter the
Random Encounters: See area K3, page 10. Tower of the Way.
Brass Railing: 3 inches thick; hardness 8, hp 25, break DC Unless the PCs can make it to the top of the stairs unseen,
25. The railing provides cover. A character next to a railing gains the poison dusks cannot be surprised. The approach of the PCs
FORTRESS OF THE
a +2 circumstance bonus on the opposed Strength check to avoid triggers the tactical encounter.
YUAN-TI
being bull rushed off the balcony. Tactical Encounter: K18. The Way Forward, page 35.
K16. BARRACKS K19. THE HEART OF DARKNESS

Roll for random encounters in the barracks before the PCs enter. The ceiling here is over 50 feet high, stretching all the way
The doors are locked only if an encounter occurs. through the top level of the castle.
Illumination: Though this chamber contains no light, the
When a door is opened, read: area is under a permanent magical effect that allows anyone with
The air here seems unnaturally dry. Multiple bunks stand along the darkvision to see across the entire area.
longer wall, thin folding screens providing a modicum of privacy. Small
footlockers stand at the end of each bed. When the PCs enter this area, read:
This massive chamber dwarfs any part of the citadel you have seen so
The secret door in K16A leads to a passage down to K4 or up to far. Multiple serpentine statues stand in niches along the north and
K19. The secret doors from the other three barracks (K16B) lead south walls, and the room is crossed by two rows of massive pillars. In
down to the passage outside K7. the center of the chamber stands a three-tiered ziggurat of what appears
Random Encounters: Random encounters here involve off- to be black marble. The air here is desert-dry and carries a foul scent.
duty patrols. If an encounter occurs, the group’s members are
asleep 50% of the time, awake but unequipped 20% of the time, In ages past, Castle Serastis served as the resting place of Ser-
and fully awake and equipped 30% of the time. If the group is trous himself. The great demon slumbered in this chamber,
asleep, reduce the EL by 3; if it is awake but unequipped, reduce coiled about the ziggurat. The Vanguard still considers this a
the EL by 1. place of power.
The abominations do not sleep here. If a group with an abomi- The secret door leads down to K16A.
nation is indicated, reroll. Unhallow: The ziggurat radiates a permanent unhallow effect
Treasure: Each of the four footlockers in these rooms contains that fills this area. Additionally, all characters not chaotic evil
a mix of coins and cheap jewelry worth 4d6 gp. must succeed on a DC 22 Will save upon entering the chamber
or become shaken (PH 312) as long as they remain within.
Random Encounters: If a random encounter occurs here,
K17. GUEST CHAMBERS it is with an abomination or an abomination patrol (50% chance
These doors are locked, but they feature lower-quality locks than
of either). The abominations of the Vanguard eat and sleep in
most areas of the castle (Open Lock DC 20).
this chamber, and any abomination encountered here has a 20%
chance of being asleep. Any other yuan-ti are awake and armed.
in all the guest chambers.
If the abomination is asleep at the start of the encounter, reduce
the EL by 1 (if it is part of a group) or by 2 (if it is alone).
When the door is opened, read:
Serpentine Statues: The statues are nearly as large as the
A thick layer of dust covers the floor of this chamber. A bed along the
niches that hold them. As such, they provide no cover and cannot
far wall and a wardrobe are the only furnishings.
effectively be pushed over.
Wide Pillar: 5 feet thick; AC 3, hardness 8, hp 900, break
These chambers serve as guest bedrooms, but the Vanguard has
DC 45; Climb DC 20. Each wide pillar provides cover. These
not entertained guests in some time. Random encounters have
are load-bearing columns fully attached to the ceiling. They
a chance to occur here only every 8 hours, making these safe
cannot be pushed over.
places for the PCs to rest and recover.
The two eastern pillars support circular stairs leading to
observation platforms. Anyone on the platform with darkvision
K18. THE WAY FORWARD or a light source can see not only the entirety of the chamber,
The eastern door to this stair is unlocked; the western door is but the top of the ziggurat and anyone on the outer balcony
locked. The two guards each have a key. (area K22).
Steep Spiral Stairs: It costs 2 squares of movement to ascend
each square on these stairs. Creatures running or charging down
steep stairs must succeed on a DC 10 Balance check, ending
16

their movement 1d2×5 feet later if they fail. Those who fail by similar to the electric gate that brought them to Castle
5 or more fall prone and take 1d6 points of damage. The DC of Serastis.
Tumble checks increases by 5. Creatures gain cover against foes The stairs on both sides of the room lead down to K15 and
below them on these spiral stairs because they can duck back up to K22.
beyond the curve of the wall. Creatures gain a +1 bonus on melee Wide Pillar: 5 feet thick; AC 3, hardness 8, hp 900, break
attack rolls against foes lower than them. DC 45; Climb DC 20. Each wide pillar provides cover. These
are load-bearing columns fully attached to the ceiling. They
cannot be pushed over.
K20. THE BLACK ZIGGURAT Portal Arches: These glowing arches are teleportation gate-
The ziggurat is under a permanent alarm effect. If anyone
ways to other locations in the castle. Each stone arch is roughly
touches it, a yuan-ti abomination patrol appears in 2d4 minutes.
the size of a doorway, inlaid with numerous small gems of dif-
FORTRESS OF THE
This counts as one of the two abomination patrols that can be
ferent hues. These portals radiate strong conjuration magic if
encountered.
YUAN-TI
detected (Spellcraft DC 28).
Portal 22A: Anyone stepping into this portal emerges in the
When the PCs approach the ziggurat, read:
Tower of the Word, area D1.
The ziggurat radiates an aura of intense dread, and an icy touch twists
Portal 22B: Anyone stepping into this portal emerges in the
through you. Seen up close, the structure’s black marble walls are shot
Tower of the Word, area D9. However, this portal operates only
through with veins of dark red, and its surface glistens faintly.
if the right combination of gems is pressed. Once it becomes
active, it glows green like the others. See the Tower of the Way
Any character who touches or climbs the ziggurat notes that
for more examples of such combination-controlled portals, and
what appears to be solid stone gives way slightly, resembling
area D7 (page 20) for information on how to use them.
living flesh in its consistency.
Portal 22C: Anyone stepping into this portal emerges in the
The long-term presence of Sertrous imbued the ziggurat with
Tower of Worship, area P1.
unnatural energy, affecting its form and creating the unhallow
effect described in K19. The ziggurat has three levels, each 10
feet high. Climbing from level to level requires a DC 20 Climb K22. THE OUTER BALCONY
check because of the unnatural texture of the stone. Since K19 rises two levels in height, this area is the only self-
Treasure: Lying atop the ziggurat is a pair of lesser bracers of contained enclosure on this level of the central keep.
archery. The yuan-ti occasionally leave magic items here
as tribute to Sertrous. After 1d12 days, they are con- When the PCs enter the area, read:
sumed by the ziggurat’s unnatural energies. You stand on a wide balcony open to the recessed hollow
in which the castle is set. Four great pillars, carved so
that each appears to be crushed in the grip of a winding
K21. THE GATE ROOM serpent, hold huge metal bowls above the floor. These
If the PCs have not explored any of the towers
resemble braziers but are currently unlit. Despite the
yet, this area is their first indication that
fact that the balcony is open, the three towers of
getting around Castle Serastis involves
the fortress block the view beyond.
more than doors and stairways.
Illumination: The glow of
The stairs lead down to K21. The
the portals sheds bright light
secret door reveals a hidden
access to area P1 of the Tower of
Worship, and also winds down
When the PCs enter the
to the passage that connects
area, read:
with K19.
A strange electric glow is
Wide Pillar: 5 feet thick;
eclipsed by this chamber’s four
AC 3, hardness 8, hp 900,
massive columns. Stone arches
break DC 45; Climb DC 20.
along the southwest and
Each wide pillar provides
northwest walls are filled with
cover. A pillar can be pushed
maelstroms of brilliant green
over with a Strength check
light that obscure whatever lies
that exceeds its break DC,
behind them. A similar arch
dealing 10d6 points of
stands in the west wall, but it
damage to creatures in the
does not glow. Beyond it lies only
squares it falls in (Reflex
blank stone.
DC 15 half). A pillar fills
the squares it falls in with
If the characters have played
dense rubble (DMG 60).
through DD2: The Sinister
Spire, they recognize the
glowing of the arches as
Not every door in Castle Serastis leads to another room

17

marble font half filled with water. A 2-foot-by-4-foot mirror of polished
Y: THE TOWER OF THE WAY silver is bolted to the wall above the table.
The only one of the three towers attached to the central keep, the
Tower of the Way juts upward, obscuring the view of the upper Any search through the parchments reveals a number of maps.
levels of the keep and portions of the cliff face. Characters who have played through Barrow of the Forgotten King
and The Sinister Spire recognize the Underdark city of Pedestal
and the area around Kingsholm, though most of the areas ren-
Y1. STAGING AREA dered are unfamiliar.
As mentioned in K18, the door to this area is locked.
The basin is not magic, but it is filled with unholy water. This
Illumination: The glow of the portals in area Y5 sheds shad-
and the mirror serve as foci for scrying spells.
owy illumination throughout this area.
Treasure: Removing the mirror from the wall without bend-
FORTRESS OF THE
ing or marring it requires a DC 25 Disable Device check. If the

YUAN-TI
PCs can remove it safely, it is worth 1,000 gp.

This oddly shaped chamber appears to take up half the octagonal space
Stuffed in among the maps is an arcane scroll of explosive runes,
of the tower. Stairs and landings spiral upward above you, and a pair
magic mouth, and sepia snake sigil.
of doors beckon from the far wall.
The yuan-ti use this chamber to brief their scout teams before Y3. LIVING QUARTERS
they embark through the portals. This location is where the This door is locked. Issiel (see tactical encounter Y1/Y5) has
PCs engage the master of the tower and her guardian dragon in the key.
combat, even though the pair fights from the landing at Y5.
Tactical Encounter: Y1/Y5. Staging Area/Lower Landing, When the door is opened, read:
page 36. (You might also need to make use of the Y6 tactical These living quarters are more comfortable than any soldiers’ barracks.
map, page 38.) A four-poster bed with a thick mattress occupies the west wall, but what
The bronze dragon Snapwing (see the tactical encounter) was appears to be a human-sized nest of dried mud and bones sits on the
taken by the Vanguard as an egg, and he has been raised with a floor beside it. A heavy wardrobe stands open to the south, three sets of
brutal combination of abuse and enchantment. Though the PCs robes hanging within.
might assume that the dragon is currently charmed or dominated,
Snapwing’s vile upbringing has made him thoroughly evil. If Issiel and Snapwing have been killed, no random encounters
occur in this room, making it a safe place for the PCs to rest. If
the pair survived tactical encounter Y1/Y5, a random encounter
Y2. MAP ROOM in this area indicates that they have returned home.
This door is locked. Issiel (see tactical encounter Y1/Y5) has
Treasure: Hidden beneath a false bottom in the wardrobe
the key.
(Search DC 22) is Issiel’s spellbook. See her statistics block,
page 36.
When the PCs open the door, read:
A triangular table, one side against the northwest wall, juts halfway
into the room. Numerous scroll cases, sheaves of parchment, and car- Y4. THE WINDING STAIR
tographers’ tools are scattered across it. Beneath the table sits a small This stairway, as well as all higher stairs and landings in the
Tower of the Way, is open on one side except for a simple brass
railing. Observers on the stairs can look down into area Y1.
Illumination: The glow of the portals in area Y5 sheds shad-
OTHER ENTRANCES owy illumination throughout this area.
So why didn’t the electric gate in The Sinister Spire take the
PCs straight into the Tower of the Way? Though the squads When the PCs climb the stair, read:
sent out from Castle Serastis to acquire minor components This wide stone stair winds up the side of the tower. As you approach
for the Sacrament of the Risen Abyss are on a strict schedule, the landing, you see stone archways carved into the walls at regular
the Vanguard had no way of knowing how long it would take intervals.
their agents to return with the bones of the forgotten king.
If the electric gate and the Sertrous key were to fall into the Y5. THE LOWER LANDING
wrong hands, the Vanguard’s enemies would have an easy Issiel and Snapwing begin combat here, though the PCs are in
way into Castle Serastis. The gate exit was therefore placed area Y1 when they attack.
a safe distance away. Illumination: The glow of the portals sheds bright light
That said, an enterprising DM is free to have the PCs begin throughout this area.
the adventure by teleporting directly to the Tower of the
Way. This approach requires changes to the adventure as When the PCs explore, read:
written. However, dropping the PCs into the thick of things As you draw closer, more details of the stone archways can be seen. There
without giving them the opportunity to learn about their are seven, each the size of a large door, its outer frame inlaid with small
foes—or even where they are—can make the fortress of the gemstones of varying colors.
yuan-ti even more of a challenge.
18

Tactical Encounter: Y1/Y5. Staging Area/Lower Landing, When the PCs pass through the portal, read:
page 36. (You might also need to use the Y6 tactical map, page The crackling green portal has transported you into an oddly shaped
38.) room, something like a distended triangle or abbreviated square.
Portal Arches: Five of the seven portals are currently attuned Five doors line the walls, and a large pit opens up in the middle of
to a location. Attuned portals radiate strong conjuration magic the floor.
if detected (Spellcraft DC 28); the others radiate only faint con-
juration. The first time the PCs come through this area, they Tactical Encounter: D1. Entry Chamber, page 39.
are unable to use any of the portals. Though they can eventually The Pit: An illusory wall spell creates the appearance of a floor
learn to activate attuned portals (see the library, area D7), the 20 feet down the pit, just below the visible entrance to D5. In
PCs cannot use unattuned ones. reality, the pit drops 60 feet to area D7. It takes a DC 30 Climb
Only attuned portals (those meant to be used in this adven- check to scale the smooth walls of the pit; the arcanists of the
FORTRESS OF THE
ture) are labeled. If you would like to develop additional side tower use flying or levitation magic to ascend or descend.
YUAN-TI
quests or use Castle Serastis as the starting point for a follow-up Characters passing back through the portal return to K21.
adventure, feel free to have additional portals attuned to destina-
tions of your choice.
Once the PCs have learned to activate them, the following
D2. ARCANE SUPPLIES
The door to this area is not only locked but trapped. The trap is
portals can be used to get to and from specific destinations.
triggered by anyone who touches the door handle without first
Portal Y5C: Bloody Grotto (page 54).
speaking the proper command word (“Suthsisharriss,” a word
Portal Y5A: Wretched Swamp (page 56).
in Yuan-Ti that roughly translates to “clearing skies”). The trap
Portal Y5B: Caves of Horror (page 58).
resets in 1 minute.
Portal Y5D: The Blasted Land (page 62).
Chain Lightning Trap: CR 7; magic device; touch trigger;
Portal Y5E: The portal chamber in the Tower of Worlds (area
automatic reset; spell effect (chain lightning, CL 11th, 11d6 elec-
S1). This portal stands on the stairwell between Y5 and Y6 and
tricity to target who touched trigger plus 5d6 electricity to each
is not shown on the map.
of up to eleven secondary targets, DC 19 Reflex half); Search DC
31; Disable Device DC 31.
Y6. THE UPPER LANDING
The tactical encounter is normally triggered when the party Once the PCs open the door, read:
enters the landing from the stairs. However, if the fight with This small chamber contains all manner of equipment, carefully
Issiel and Snapwing moves into this area, the creatures here ordered and labeled in Yuan-Ti. Alchemical devices sit on shelves, spell
do not come to their aid. Only when the pair is slain do they components are stocked in strictly measured quantities, and valuable
descend from the rafters. parchments and inks are neatly stacked in boxes.
When the PCs climb, read: Treasure: This supply closet contains the components of an
As you approach the last landing on the winding staircase, a mass of alchemist’s lab (500 gp), three full sets of standard spell compo-
shadows and crisscrossing rafters rises above you. Much of the tower nents (5 gp each), five pearls (100 gp each), a pouch of diamond
is open to the elements, creating a kind of battlement looking out over dust (250 gp), and enough special inks for a wizard to scribe five
the fields around Cettrux Hill. pages of a spellbook (500 gp).
The closet also contains a large pouch of foul-smelling purple
Tactical Encounter: Y6. Upper Landing, page 38. (You might powder. A DC 25 Craft (alchemy) check reveals that if the powder
also need to make use of the Y1/Y5 tactical map, page 37.) is mixed with blood, it spontaneously ignites and creates thick
clouds of noxious fumes (see tactical encounters S4 and S4-A,
pages 50 and 52).
D: THE TOWER OF THE WORD Action Points: The powder is essential to the final stages of
This tower is home and workplace to the Vanguard’s arcanists. the Sacrament of the Risen Abyss. If the PCs take or destroy the
Item creation and identification occur here, as does alchemical supply here, they earn 1 action point.
experimentation and far more horrific endeavors. Residents of
the Tower of the Word use the combination-controlled portals
or flying and levitation magic to reach any area below the main
D3. ARCANISTS’ LIVING QUARTERS
The doors to these rooms are locked.
level (any yuan-ti encountered here carries two potions of levitate).
As a result, standard patrols do not appear in these areas. If you
When a door is opened, read:
roll anything other than a special encounter while the PCs are
This sparsely appointed chamber contains a large four-poster bed, a
in the tower, treat the result as no encounter.
heavy wardrobe, and a writing desk.
D1. ENTRY CHAMBER Random Encounter: Only random encounters with yuan-
The PCs’ presence here triggers the tactical encounter. Unless ti wizards occur here. If you roll anything other than a special
they arrive invisibly, they have no chance to do more than look encounter while the PCs are in the tower, treat it as no encounter.
around the room before combat begins. A special encounter indicates a wizard, rather than requiring a
Illumination: The glow of the portal sheds bright light second roll.
19

Bed, Desk, and Chairs: All squares except those directly headband of intellect +2. Like area D2, this chamber contains the
adjacent to a door are occupied by furniture. Treat these squares makings of a full alchemist’s lab (500 gp). Also on the table is a
as difficult terrain; a desk or bed can provide cover to adjacent pearl worth 250 gp.
characters. A character can step up onto a desk or a bed as a move Action Points: Tolvul is a major participant in the Sacrament
action, gaining a +1 bonus on melee attack rolls against those of the Risen Abyss, and is charged with preparing the ritual’s
on the floor. A character can tip over a desk to provide cover components for use. Killing the mind flayer earns the PCs 4
against ranged attacks. action points.
Treasure: If no random encounter occurs in these chambers,
the PCs have a 20% chance to find a spellbook left in a wardrobe
by one of the wizards. Such a spellbook contains all 0-level spells,
D6. CHAMBERS OF CREATION
The doors to these rooms are all locked. In addition to the
plus five 1st-level spells and a 2nd-level spell of your choice.
FORTRESS OF THE
general description, each chamber contains additional items

In addition, the room just south of D4 contains a helm of com-
as noted below.
YUAN-TI
prehend languages and read magic.

When a door is opened, read:
D4. TOLVUL’S LIVING QUARTERS The air in this chamber seems strangely energized, like the charge in
The door to this room is locked. the air before a storm. The room is simply furnished, with a functional
worktable and a shelf of crafters’ tools.
This bare chamber might be taken for the living quarters of an ascetic These rooms are infused with a mystical energy that aids the
or monk, were it not for the array of skulls bolted to the walls. Some are Vanguard in the creation of minor magic items. Each room
human, some elf, some orc, and a few yuan-ti. The skulls are meticu- allows characters to create a certain type of magic item with-
lously clean, but each is perforated by four round holes. In addition to out having the requisite item creation feat. The creator must
the skulls, a flat wooden cot with a thin mattress serves as a bed, while provide all the other prerequisites (including XP and spells),
pegs on one wall take the place of a wardrobe. and items take twice as long to create in these chambers as they
otherwise would.
Tolvul (see area D5) collects skulls from his meals. As the sacra- 6A: This room contains parchment and inks, and allows the
ment comes to completion, Tolvul takes what little rest he can scribing of scrolls without the Scribe Scroll feat. Scrolls created
in the laboratory. No random encounters occur in this room, here are limited to spells of 4th level or lower.
making it a safe (if somewhat macabre) place for the PCs to 6B: This room contains beakers, decanters of liquids, and a
rest. cauldron, and allows the creation of potions without the Brew
Treasure: Resting on one of the skulls is a circlet of persuasion. Potion feat. A successful DC 15 Spellcraft check notes that
Tolvul is not wearing it at present because he is experimenting numerous potions of levitate (used by the wizards to move within
with the king’s crown (see area D5). the tower) are crafted here.
6C: This room contains woodworking tools, allowing the
creation of wands without the Craft Wand feat.
D5. THE LABORATORY 6D: This room has the greatest variety of tools and allows the
Characters who attempt to jump into this chamber (to the illu-
creation of minor wondrous items without the Craft Wondrous
sory floor) barely catch a glimpse of the interior as they fall past
Item feat. A successful DC 15 Spellcraft check identifies the
into D7. They can attempt to catch themselves on the edge of
items and tools lying about as the makings of a mask of disguise
the laboratory floor with DC 18 Reflex saves.
(as a hat of disguise, but it occupies the eye slot). This item is being
constructed for the risen king (see area S4, page 24).
Shaped much like the chamber above, this room resembles an experi-
mental laboratory. On one table lies a bizarre humanoid with six D7. THE LIBRARY
arms and a beaked face. It has been neatly sliced open, and a number Anyone who enters this room by falling notices the balcony
of organs lie piled beside it. On a second table stand beakers, burners, (area D8) only with a DC 18 Spot check. Those who enter by
and other alchemical paraphernalia. An ancient crown, tarnished flight, levitation, climbing, or some other controlled descent
with age, lies nearby. see it clearly on their way down.
As with area D1, the PCs likely can’t do more than look around When the PCs first descend, read:
before their presence triggers the tactical encounter. This octagonal chamber is comfortably equipped. Cushioned chairs
Tactical Encounter: D5. The Laboratory, page 40. are spaced throughout the room, and the walls are lined with heavy
Another illusory wall spell has been cast 20 feet below this bookcases.
chamber, blocking any view into area D7.
The body on the table is a spell weaver (MM2 187). A DC 15 If the PCs see the balcony:
Heal check indicates that this poor creature was vivisected—one A narrow balcony overhangs the southern wall, though you see no stairs
of the Vanguard’s experiments seeking to marry dark magic and or ladder that might give access. On it stands a yuan-ti abomination,
the essence of mortal life. its massive form dwarfing the railing it leans on. Its eyes gleam with a
Treasure: In addition to the benefit it gives the PCs against fiendish light as it watches you.
the risen king (see tactical encounter S4-A), the king’s crown is a
20

As soon as the PCs have gotten their bearings, read: greatest enemies; the king’s scepter; the blood of a fey whose
From above, a deep voice calls out. “I have wondered if you would show family once blessed the king’s line; and an object touched by
up here. I believe we should talk.” Sertrous himself. He tells of the ongoing sacrifice of prisoners
in the reliquary (area P4), and suggests that interference there
The voice comes from the balcony. The speaker is a half-fiend would also damage the sacrament.
yuan-ti abomination—Zoldathra, Master of the Word. Zoldathra Zoldathra also tells the PCs of the Tower of Worlds.
is a devout member of the Vanguard, but he wants no part of the
Sacrament of the Risen Abyss. Though he is prepared to fight if • “The tower is built atop the cliff, but it is out of phase with
the PCs refuse his overtures, he is willing to aid any who might the rest of our world. The sacrament takes place there even
help disrupt the ongoing rites. as we speak. Be warned, though—enough of the sacrament’s
The shallow stair leads down to area D9. components are already assembled that it can no longer be
FORTRESS OF THE
Diplomacy: If the PCs are willing to speak with Zoldathra, stopped. Your only hope lies in thwarting the collection of
YUAN-TI
read the following in response to player questions or statements. the last relics necessary for the rites, and in harrying the
Feel free to extrapolate beyond what is presented here. However, so-called leaders of the Vanguard as they seek to complete
keep in mind that although Zoldathra wants to stop the sacra- their plans.”
ment and see the Vanguard’s leadership overthrown, he does not
wish the organization destroyed. He reveals nothing regarding Zoldathra then tells the PCs that any one of three portals—the
Sertrous himself beyond what is presented here. highest in the Tower of the Way, or the lowest in the Tower of the
Word or the Tower of Worship—can take them to the Tower of
• “I am Zoldathra, Master of the Word. I have been a member Worlds. He gives the PCs the combinations to all active portals
of the Vanguard of Sertrous for decades. Until recently, I within the castle.
thought that I was privy to the greatest secrets of my organi- If Things Go Poorly: If the PCs push for more aid or informa-
zation. I was wrong.” tion than that described here, Zoldathra grows angry. The first
• “One day, Sertrous will rise and the Vanguard will rule in time this happens, the PCs can calm him down with a successful
his name. You cannot stop that. But perhaps we can work DC 15 Diplomacy check. If it happens again, or if the check fails,
together in the interim, to prevent the travesty envisioned Zoldathra attacks to trigger the tactical encounter.
by the Vanguard’s current leaders.” Tactical Encounter: D7. The Library, page 42.
• “Only recently have I learned that the creature they intend Even if the PCs wind up slaying Zoldathra, they can still
to bring forth with the Sacrament of the Risen Abyss is obtain much of the information they need. Although the books
intended not to rule the world, but to help destroy it. I dare in the library do not explain the true purpose of the sacrament,
not move against my leaders directly, but perhaps with my they contain much information on its rites. With 4d6 hours of
assistance, you can accomplish what I cannot.” research, the PCs can learn everything presented above except
the Vanguard’s true goals.
Assuming the PCs cooperate (or at least listen), Zoldathra is will- Ad Hoc XP Award: If the PCs deal with Zoldathra diplo-
ing to provide the following assistance. First, he offers advice on matically from beginning to end, award them XP as if they had
avoiding wandering patrols, using his influence to steer those successfully overcome a CR 8 encounter.
patrols away from the PCs. From this point on, random encoun- Action Points: Zoldathra is a powerful ally, and works behind
ters occur less frequently (see page 10). the scenes to slow the Vanguard down while the PCs are active.
Second, Zoldathra explains the Sacrament of the Risen Abyss, If the PCs work with him, they gain 2 action points.
including what the Vanguard are concealing from a majority of
Sertrous’s faithful. Through Zoldathra, you can give the party the
information presented in What the PCs Don’t Know (page 4).
D8. LIBRARY BALCONY
This small reading balcony overlooks the library at a height of
Zoldathra explains that the ritual began a week ago, but that
roughly 15 feet. It has no ladder or stairway; only those who can
the Vanguard continues to gather components for its use. He tells
fly or levitate can reach it.
the PCs which portals in the Tower of the Way are attuned to
destinations, and the proper combination of gems that must be
pressed to activate them. He warns them that even with access D9. SUMMIT CHAMBER
to the portals, alarm spells will alert the Vanguard to the party’s The door to this area is locked.
unauthorized movements.
When the PCs unlock the door, read:
• “Each portal leads to an area in which one of the necessary This chamber is largely unremarkable except for another of the stone
components can be found. You will have to either beat the arches, lined with inlaid gems, in the south wall.
Vanguard operatives to the components or take them by
force if you wish to prevent their use in the sacrament.” On those occasions when the Vanguard’s spellcasters must
address the troops (most often to demonstrate a new magic item
Although Zoldathra knows how to activate attuned por- or cast spells over a large group), they do so here. The portal pro-
tals, he cannot help the PCs use portals not already set to a vides access to either the central keep (area K21) or the Tower
destination. of Worlds (area S1), depending on which combination of gems
Zoldathra describes the four components remaining to be is pressed.
found: the phylactery of a lich who was one of the forgotten king’s
21

In this room, the party faces Vsolt, a Vanguard dread necroman-
P: THE TOWER OF WORSHIP cer, and his skeletal guards. The tactical encounter is triggered
The rank and file of the Vanguard view this place of prayers as soon as the PCs get their bearings.
and offerings to Sertrous as the most important part of Castle Tactical Encounter: P3. Main Sanctuary, page 44.
Serastis. Though the Vanguard’s leaders know that Sertrous Action Points: Vsolt is set to lead a number of rites in the
cares nothing for the actions of his worshipers, they maintain Sacrament of the Risen Abyss. Killing him earns the PCs 3
the tower as a front. action points.
P1. CHAMBER OF PURIFICATION P4. RELIQUARY

Worshipers use this room to purify their thoughts before pro- The door to this chamber is locked.
FORTRESS OF THE
ceeding down to the main sanctuary for prayers.

Illumination: The glow of the portal sheds bright light When the PCs open the door, read:
YUAN-TI
throughout this area. Though this chamber occupies the entire center of the tower, it seems
insufficient to contain the horrors within. Foul art objects, demonic
When the PCs enter the chamber, read: weapons, bloodstained bones, severed
The walls, ceiling, and floor of this chamber are etched with images of hands, and standards bearing
huge serpents feasting on entire castles and villages of terrified human- sigils of chaos and evil line
oids. Other than the frescoes, the crackling green portal, and a set of the walls to all sides.
stairs leading down, the room is empty.
The etching on the floor has no effect on combat if a random

encounter occurs here.
The stairs lead down to P2. The portal pro-
vides access back to area K21. Once it
is located, the secret door that con-
nects P1 to K22 opens easily.
The instant the PCs emerge

through the portal, an alarm spell
alerts Vsolt (area P3) and Shiuahn (area
P4) that intruders are in the tower.
P2. LANDING
Both keyed locations are identical.
As the PCs move along the stairs, read:

The winding stairway is interrupted by a small
landing before continuing down. Heavy double doors
bar passage to the center of the tower.
The tactical encounter associated with this area does not occur
immediately. Rather, it is triggered the first time the PCs step
out of a doorway (that is, out of area P3 or P4) onto one of the
landings. This happens regardless of which landing the PCs are
on, and it occurs only once.
Tactical Encounter: P2. Landing, page 43.
The bizarre baboon wights that guard this area are the result
of experimentation by the necromancer Vsolt (area P3). They
are trained not to attack yuan-ti or lizardfolk, or anyone accom-
panied by them.
P3. MAIN SANCTUARY

These doors are locked.
When the doors are opened, read:

Chains suspend a coiled serpentine idol of polished brass from the ceiling
of what is clearly a religious sanctuary. Rows of cushions cover the floor
in concentric circles, surrounding the hanging idol as if worshipers are
meant to look up at it in prayer.
22 We’re being attacked by what?

Along the far wall, six ragged prisoners stand manacled, their
faces masks of terror and despair. Next to a stone slab in the center S: THE TOWER OF WORLDS
of the room, a female human prisoner fights desperately against This tower is a demiplane out of phase with the Material Plane.
another human woman clad in hide armor and blood-hued cer- It exists atop Cettrux Hill (as much as it can be said to exist
emonial robes. The prisoner is unarmed, but the cultist raises a anywhere), and is accessible only by magic.
rusted dagger. No overview map is provided for the Tower of Worlds. Each level
involves encounters, so the tactical maps create a comprehensive
The PCs have arrived in time to prevent a brutal sacrifice, though plan. No random encounters occur in any areas of the tower.
all is not as it seems.
Tactical Encounter: P4. Reliquary, page 46.
The sacrifices (all low-level commoners) give the PCs the
S1. THE PORTAL CHAMBER
FORTRESS OF THE
The tactical encounter is triggered by the PCs’ arrival, giving
same information as the prisoners from the dungeon cells (area
them only an initial glimpse of the room.
YUAN-TI
K10). One prisoner who speaks a bit of Draconic has overheard
Illumination: While it is activated, the glow of the portal
Vanguard plans to sacrifice the slaves of the valley if the current
sheds bright light throughout this area.
sacrifices prove insufficient.
The commoners do not recognize the prisoner (actually the
When the PCs pass through the portal, read:
captured Arzanezra) who broke free and fought back against the
The arch you step out from stands in the center of the room, unlike the
human torturer Shiuahn. They are unaware of her true nature,
wall-mounted arches seen previously. From the ceiling, corpses in various
and assume that she has been recently captured as a stranger
stages of decay hang by chains and rusty hooks. Suddenly the light of the
to these parts.
arch winks out, and a massive shape rises from the darkness.
In reality, Arzanezra is a paladin of slaughter in the ser-
vice of fiendish masters. Sent to Castle Serastis in response
Tactical Encounter: S1. The Portal Chamber, page 48.
to rumors of the Sacrament of the Risen Abyss, she gained
The portal powers down automatically but remains attuned
intelligence of the Vanguard’s activities before being captured
to the portal that brought the PCs here. The same combination
when attempting to flee the fortress. The Vanguard assumed
allows them to leave.
her to simply be a roaming adventurer, and assigned her to
The bodies here are victims that have been sacrificed to the
be sacrificed.
rite over the previous week. If the PCs rescued the prisoners in
Treasure: The Vanguard keeps its horrid relics here, some of
areas K10 or P4 but did not escort them out of the castle, or if
which might be valuable to a sage or historian. These include
they did nothing when the yuan-ti collected new slaves in tacti-
a snake-bladed, masterwork silvered bastard sword (600 gp),
cal encounter F (page 28), those prisoners and slaves are found
the fangs of an ancient green dragon (1,000 gp), a fine tapestry
among the dead here.
depicting Castle Serastis (1,500 gp), and the skull of a giant
The stairs lead up to S2.
serpent (1,000 gp).
Treasure: A successful DC 25 Search check finds a dusty rose
Rusted Dagger: The dagger wielded by Shiuahn once
prism ioun stone caught in the tattered cloak of one corpse.
belonged to the forgotten king. It radiates faint transmutation
magic (Spellcraft DC 21), and close examination reveals that
its design matches the sword Merthúvial (from Barrow of the S2. THE VESTIBULE
Forgotten King or area K14). Although it has no innate magical The stairs enter the southwest corner of this chamber from S1
abilities, it is a potent weapon if used against the king himself below.
(see encounter S4-A, page 52). Illumination: The cobra heads on the walls are imbued with
Action Points: If the PCs free all the victims to be sacrificed continual flame, filling the area with bright light.
and escort them out of the castle, they earn 2 action points.
The floor of this room is sloped, forcing you to look up to the other side of
P5. PORTAL CHAMBER the chamber. An enormous serpent is etched into the floor, its switchback
The door to this area is locked.
coils breaking the flat surface of the slope. The room is lit by the glowing
Illumination: While it is activated, the glow of the portal
eyes and mouths of stone cobra heads adorning the walls.
sheds bright light throughout this area.
The fiendish medusa Effandra is master of the Tower of Worship.
However, while the Sacrament of the Risen Abyss is underway,
Though only half the size, this room appears much like the chamber by
she is stationed here as a guard and an occasional participant
which you entered the tower. The same etchings mark the walls, floor,
in the rites. She is accompanied by two nagathas created by Ud-
and ceiling, but the room’s archway stands silent.
muela (see The Wretched Swamp, page 56).
Tactical Encounter: S2. The Vestibule, page 49.
As with area P1, the etchings on the floor have no effect on
combat. Though the portal on the north wall is currently inac-
tive, it is set to take characters to the Tower of Worlds (area S1) S3. ENDLESS STAIR
with the right combination. The door to the staircase to the south is not only locked but
trapped. If opened without the proper password (“I spill my
life for Sertrous,” spoken in Abyssal, Draconic, or Yuan-Ti), all
23

creatures in the stairwell 5 rounds later are hit by a flame strike On the third, central bier is set a careful arrangement of yellowed
effect. The trap resets after 10 minutes. bones. Three yuan-ti in ceremonial robes and hoods stand in a tri-
Flame Strike Trap: CR 6; magic device; touch trigger; auto- angle around the biers, chanting in sibilant tones. Brass braziers emit
matic reset; onset delay (5 rounds); spell effect (flame strike, a noxious purple smoke.
CL 10th, 10d6 fire, DC 17 Reflex half); Search DC 30; Disable A fourth yuan-ti stands before the central bier and gives true meaning to
Device DC 30. the term abomination. He is monstrously obese, with multiple folds of scaly
skin hanging from his jowls to hide his neck and chest. Rivulets of blood
When the PCs open the door, read: bubble up from beneath his black eyes and flow freely down his face.
A great stair extends upward and outward into darkness. Though you
cannot be sure, the flight of steps looks longer than the tower appeared If the PCs have played through the Barrow of the Forgotten
to rise when you viewed it from outside the castle. King adventure, add:
FORTRESS OF THE
The bloated yuan-ti carries with him a dark steel shield whose center
YUAN-TI
Because the Tower of Worlds is an extradimensional space, not boasts an abstract black serpent in place of the lightning bolt of Hei-
all its areas obey the physical laws of the Material Plane. Regard- roneous. The shield resembles that carried by one of the statues in the
less of the PCs’ speed (and even if they move at different rates), it forgotten king’s tomb.
takes 2d4+2 minutes to reach the top of the stairs (roll separately
for each character). The stairs eventually lead to S4. The yuan-ti leading the ceremony is Sulvaugren, Master of
Worlds. The bodies on two of the biers are those of the high-
est-ranking halfblood wizards of the Vanguard, whose willing
S4. THE SACRAMENTAL CHAMBER sacrifice a week before marked the start of the sacrament. (If the
The door to this chamber is locked.
PCs investigate the bodies, one wears a signet that identifies him
Illumination: Harmless mystical fire fills this area with
as Gazaron, the yuan-ti in charge of the effort to collect the relics
shadowy illumination.
in Barrow of the Forgotten King and The Sinister Spire.)
The bones on the third bier are those of the forgotten king.
Mystic energy infused into them by the ceremony protects the
The chamber glows with the light of demonic fire that seems to burn
bones from being touched, and no attempt to disrupt or destroy
the air itself. Three stone biers covered with serpentine imagery stand
them can now interrupt the rites.
across the chamber. Two contain what

The other three yuan-ti
appear to be bodies wrapped
have lost themselves
in funeral shrouds.
in the sacrament;
24 The Sacrament of the Risen Abyss has begun!

they cannot take any action besides chanting. They are consid-
ered helpless and can be slain with a coup de grace.
Though Sulvaugren’s death prevents the proper fulfillment of
Items of Legacy
The following items of legacy, along with those found in Barrow
the sacrament, his life force provides energy that allows the for-
of the Forgotten King and The Sinister Spire, make up the greatest
gotten king to rise. Because the room changes between the battle
of the treasures that were buried with the forgotten king.
with Sulvaugren and the confrontation with the risen king, this
area has two tactical encounters with separate maps.
Once the forgotten king rises, any character carrying one
of the items to which he is specifically vulnerable (see his
THE AEGIS INVIOLABLE
This item of legacy is a heavy steel shield bordered in bronze.
king’s relics weakness, page 53) instantly knows what effect
The shield’s dark steel is almost black, its center darker still. That
that item has against him in battle. Likewise, PCs intuitively
center (where a personal ensign or standard might normally be
know that the pool of action points they have built up can now
placed) shifts and wavers depending on the angle from which
ITEMS OF
be used. This knowledge is the last remnant of the king’s true
LEGACY
it is viewed.
spirit, aiding those who would destroy the travesty his body
Nonlegacy Game Statistics: +1 heavy steel shield; cost 1,770
has become.
gp. You are considered 1 level higher for the purpose of turning
Tactical Encounters: S4. Sacramental Chamber, page 50;
or rebuking undead, though you do not gain this ability if you
S4-A. The Risen King, page 52.
do not already have it.
Development: These are two tough encounters, and the PCs
Omens: When a wielder straps the shield to his arm, the holy
might be forced to retreat when the forgotten king rises. If so,
symbol of his deity, the standard of his liege or kingdom, or the
the risen king takes control of the Vanguard, but he needs a few
emblem of an organization to which he belongs immediately
days to put his plans into motion. The PCs can rest up and hit
appears in the center of the shield. The shield resizes to fit any
him again, though he might be found anywhere within Serastis
Small, Medium, or Large wielder.
and is accompanied by a yuan-ti patrol at all times.
If the PCs cannot destroy the risen king within 1d4+1 days,
he departs the castle and begins consolidating his power HISTORY
throughout the realm. Although he is weaker than he would In the early days of St. Cuthbert’s faith, a young priest named
have been had the sacrament been properly completed, he Seamus took temporary leave of his duties to travel back to
intends to carry out the Vanguard’s plan by taking over his his homeland and attend his sister’s funeral. When he finally
old kingdom (using his own Charisma and the mask of disguise returned months later, he was horrified to find his church burned
specially crafted for him). The PCs might face a new task: con- to the foundations, the bodies of his fellow priests within. No
vincing a celebrating populace that their newly risen savior religious icon or holy scripture escaped the fire—except for a
will be their downfall. shield the high priest had used in his ill-fated defense of the
church.
Though he had no notion of who was responsible, Seamus was
CONCLUDING THE determined to exact vengeance. At that time, the larger churches
ADVENTURE considered St. Cuthbert an upstart whose faithful were little
more than a mob of pretenders. Seamus chose to start his quest
If the PCs are victorious, they have thwarted the Sacrament
with them. (DC 15)
of the Risen Abyss against overwhelming odds. The power of
The young priest expected to find enemies among the other
the Vanguard of Sertrous is broken. The PCs can deliver the
churches of the region; instead, he found more victims. From
bones of the forgotten king back to Kingsholm before taking
the dwarven temple of Moradin to the holy cathedral of Pelor to
some much-needed rest. If they do so, grant them XP as if
the fortress bastion of Hextor, Seamus discovered smoldering
they had overcome a CR 5 encounter. If they offer to return
ruin after smoldering ruin. For years he traveled, until the
the weapons of legacy as well, Town Speaker Phodor Landros
number of fallen churches he encountered could not easily be
tells the PCs they are free to keep them until they have retired
numbered.
from adventuring. In this case, increase the award to that of a
On the way, Seamus gathered allies in the form of other sur-
CR 7 encounter.
vivors of the attacks, including Surra Soulhammer, high priest
Many adventures might yet await the party. Perhaps the PCs
of Moradin, and Rotheul, champion of Hextor. With others like
learn to set destinations for the remaining portals in the Tower
themselves, these former enemies worked together to expose
of the Way, or decide to further explore the areas to which they
what could only be construed as an attack on faith itself. As a
have already teleported. Additionally, any enemies who sur-
symbol of their united purpose (and in memory of the last stand
vived—Yensurros and Arzanezra are likely candidates—might
Seamus’s high priest had made), they crafted the Aegis Inviolable, a
seek revenge at a later date.
magic shield to be wielded by their greatest champion once their
Beyond that, has the cult of Sertrous truly been wiped out?
enemy was found. (DC 20; The Enemy of My Enemy)
The Vanguard is gone, but was this the only band of zealots cling-
In the end, the tale of Seamus and his allies was one of tragic
ing to the hope of raising their dark god? And what of Sertrous
failure. The wandering priests eventually located their enemy:
himself? A part of the former fiend lord’s consciousness woke in
the Covenant of Ur. This cult was one of the earliest known
the body of the risen king, even if only for a few moments. The
assemblages of ur-priests—practitioners of divine magic not
ancient evil of the Slumbering Serpent has stirred, and it might
granted by the gods but stolen from them. The wandering
now just be a matter of time before it truly awakens.
priests confronted the covenant. Though they managed to
25

The Aegis Inviolable
exact a measure of vengeance for their The Aegis Inviolable is used primarily
respective orders, all of them fell by combat-focused divine spellcasters
before the end. with the ability to turn undead.
The Covenant of Ur was eventu-
ally destroyed by an order of paladins,
though rumors persist that the cult
LEGACY ITEM
continues to this day. The Aegis Invio-
ABILITIES
All the following are legacy item abili-
lable was taken from the ur-priests by
ties of the Aegis Inviolable.
one of the paladins, where it passed
Energy Aegis (Su): Once per day
through his family line until ending
as an immediate action, you can grant
up in the hands of his direct descen-
yourself energy resistance 10 against a
dant: Sir Colryn, advisor and friend
specific type of energy (chosen when
ITEMS OF
to the forgotten king. (DC 25; An

LEGACY
you activate this power). The energy

Ancient Evil)
resistance lasts for 1 round. At 11th
level, this increases to energy resis-
LEGACY RITUALS tance 20.
Two rituals are required to unlock Holy Vessel (Su): At 8th level, the
all the abilities of the Aegis Inviolable. Aegis Inviolable functions as your holy
The Enemy of My Enemy: You symbol for the purpose of divine spell-
must ally yourself with an enemy to defeat casting, turning undead, or any other use for
a common threat. This new ally must be a which you would normally require a holy symbol.
political or religious rival, or someone you have In addition, you gain the benefit of the Eschew Mate-
personally come into conflict with in the past. The rials feat for any divine spell you cast.
enemy you defeat must be of a CR equal to or greater than Protection of the Gods (Su): At 10th level, the Aegis Invio-
1 + either your own effective character level or your new lable grants you the benefit of the shield of faith or shield other
ally’s, whichever is higher. Cost: 2,000 gp. Feat Granted: Least spell (your choice) as a swift action once per day. Caster level
Legacy (Aegis Inviolable). equals your Hit Dice.

An Ancient Evil: You must confront and defeat a creature Still Cast (Su): At 13th level, you can apply the Still Spell
directly responsible (or belonging to an organization respon- feat to any spell you cast of 6th level or lower, up to three times
sible) for a great evil that occurred at least one hundred years per day. Use of this ability does not change the spell slot of the
ago. This evil can take any form, from wide-ranging atrocities altered spell.
to a specific crime against your own church or kingdom. In Divine Ward (Su): At 16th level, you gain the benefit of death
either case, the individual must be aware of the reason for your ward, but only against the first two attacks of the appropriate
grudge, and must be of a CR equal to or greater than 2 + your sort per day.
effective character level. Cost: 14,000 gp. Feat Granted: Lesser
Legacy (Aegis Inviolable).
NANIETHARIL
The Aegis Inviolable Nanietharil—or “Gift of the Ancient Foe”—is a set of scale mail
Wielder Attack Hit Point Spell Slot made of overlapping layers of darkwood carved to resemble
Level Penalty Loss Loss Abilities leaves. Its dark hue is broken by a leaf-and-branch pattern in
5th — — 1st +1 light fortification dull gold.
heavy steel shield Nonlegacy Game Statistics: +1 darkwood scale mail; cost
6th — 2 — Energy aegis 10
1,150 gp. You can reroll one Survival check per day. The deci-
7th — 2 — —
8th –1 — 2nd Holy vessel sion to reroll must be made before the result of the original roll
9th — 2 — — is known.
10th — — — Protection of the gods Omen: When worn in a wooded or grassy area, the stitched
11th — — 3rd Energy aegis 20 pattern shifts in shape and hue to match the native flora.
12th –2 — — +3 medium fortifica-
tion heavy steel shield
13th — 2 4th Still cast HISTORY
14th — — — — Her name was Suriel Nadarun, and she was the greatest warrior
15th — 2 — — of the elven nation of Tiur Vedrilos. Her fame spread far and
16th — — 5th Divine ward wide beyond the elven borders, until she was the inspiration
and the envy of heroes of all races. However, when Suriel met
her end, it was not on the field of combat but by the poisoned
WIELDER REQUIREMENTS dart of a drow assassin. The citizens of Tiur Vedrilos turned
Proficiency with heavy shields.
out by the thousands as the king, his wizards, and his druid
Base attack bonus +3.
advisors led her funeral procession through the heart of the
Knowledge (nobility and royalty) or Knowledge (religion)
wood. (DC 17)
2 ranks.
26

As the procession continued, however, a sudden silence Nanietharil
fell, followed by the sound of marching boots. Blades were Wielder Attack Hit Point Spell Slot
unsheathed and arrows nocked as a division of orcs appeared Level Penalty Loss Loss Abilities
across a narrow clearing. Yet no blood was to be shed that day, 5th — — — One with the wild
for even as the elf archers prepared to attack, a single orc strode 6th — 2 1st Walk unseen
7th — 2 — Walk unheard
forward beneath a white flag of truce. Nearly 8 feet tall and clad
8th –1 — 2nd +2 darkwood
in armor of black dragonscale, this was none other than Ruruk, scale mail
king of the neighboring orc nation of Kagaan Ruul. 9th — 2 — —
Slowly, the orc lord approached Suriel on her bier and bowed 10th — — 3rd Voice of the wild
his head. In highly accented Elven, he spoke to the assembly 11th — — — —
thus. “The elf Nadarun was the greatest foe Kagaan Ruul has 12th — — 4th Armor of the wild
had. That she should fall to a coward’s poison and not in glori- 13th — 2 — +3 darkwood
ITEMS OF
ous combat is a great wrong. I have come thus to praise her, and scale mail
LEGACY
to pay honor to the battle that should have been.” Reverently, 14th — — 5th Predator’s dash
King Ruruk laid a suit of darkwood scale mail alongside the 15th — 2 — —
16th — — 6th Shape of the wild
body. Without another word, he and his host returned the way
they had come. For twenty-eight days—the length of the tradi-
tional mourning period for the elves of Tiur Vedrilos—no orcs WIELDER REQUIREMENTS
attacked across the border. Proficient in Medium armor.
The elves marveled at the armor, for it was as fine as any Any two of the following: Knowledge (nature) 4 ranks, Hide
they themselves might have crafted. Clearly, King Ruruk had 4 ranks, Survival 4 ranks.
called upon the greatest artisans of his people for its creation. Only those of either elven or orc blood can use the abilities
Though it was unheard of for a warrior of Suriel’s reputation to of the shield for 11th level and higher.
be buried with arms and armor not her own, the elves decided
that she would be interred wearing this unique gift. (DC 22; A
Matter of Honor)
LEGACY ITEM ABILITIES
All the following are legacy item abilities of Nanietharil.
Generations later, Tiur Vedrilos and Kagaan Ruul temporarily
One With the Wild (Su): You gain a +5 competence bonus
allied against a goblinoid incursion from the north that threat-
on wild empathy checks. If you do not already have the wild
ened both lands. To strengthen this fragile union, the armor
empathy ability, you instead gain this ability as a druid of your
was exhumed and worn at times by elf and orc champions alike.
character level –2.
It was during these battles that Nanietharil first displayed its
Walk Unseen (Su): You gain a +5 competence bonus on
mystical abilities—abilities that the orcs swore their histories
Hide checks.
had never spoken of.
Walk Unheard (Su): You gain a +5 competence bonus on
None ever learned how the armor became magic, for Nani-
Move Silently checks.
etharil was lost on the field of battle. Presumably it was picked up
Voice of the Wild (Sp): With a command word, you can
as a hobgoblin war trophy and eventually acquired by a stalwart
use speak with animals (as the spell) five
adventurer. (DC 27; An Echo of Old Alliances)
times per day.
Armor of the Wild (Su): You
LEGACY RITUALS retain all the benefits and abilities
Two rituals are required to unlock all the of Nanietharil when you use the
abilities of Nanietharil. wild shape ability. (Other forms of
A Matter of Honor: You must shapechanging, such as polymorph
travel to the gravesite of an enemy spells, do not apply.)
you respected (regardless of how Predator’s Dash (Su): Your base
much you might also have hated him) land speed increases by 10 feet.
to offer a sacrifice of goods in tribute. Shape of the Wild (Su): You gain one
The cost of the ritual includes the additional daily use of your wild shape
cost of the goods. Cost: 1,500 gp. Feat ability. This additional use cannot be used
Granted: Least Legacy (Nanietharil). to transform into an elemental, and you
An Echo of Old Alliances: You do not gain the wild shape ability if
must perform a service for someone of you do not already have it.
orc blood (if you are of elven blood) or
of elven blood (if you are of orc blood).
This service need not be long-term, but
it must involve actual expense or danger
on your part. Cost: 11,500 gp. Feat Granted:
Lesser Legacy (Nanietharil).
Nanietharil, Gift of the Ancient Foe

27

ENCOUNTER F
THE SURROUNDING FIELDS

Encounter Level 9/ 7 (see sidebar) Griffon-Eater simply attacks the nearest PC, attempting to
constrict.
Lieth and Griffon-Eater attempt to flee if reduced to 13 or
SETUP fewer hit points. The naga races toward the fortress, while
Lieth (L) is currently berating a group of slaves and takes a the serpent attempts to escape into the river.
–2 penalty on Spot checks to notice the PCs. Her dire snake
Griffon-Eater (G) is more alert. He is coiled around the well,
hiding in its shadow. It takes a DC 16 Spot check to notice DEVELOPMENT
him before he moves to attack. Lieth surrenders if cornered. If sufficiently intimidated or
The PCs enter in the southwest area of the map. The slaves charmed, she can offer the PCs a rough idea of the layout of
run for cover when violence breaks out. the central keep but not the other towers.
When the PCs approach, read:
Near the canvas pavilion, movement catches your eye. A

human-headed serpent coils there, screaming angrily at a
group of cowering humans. Lieth the Taskmaster CR 8
MM 191
If one of the PCs notices Griffon-Eater, read: hp 58 (9 HD)
Female dark naga
At the same time, what you had originally taken to be a step LE Large aberration
at the base of the well begins to move. An impossibly huge Init +2; Senses darkvision 60 ft.; Listen +11, Spot +11
serpent uncoils from around the stone structure, heading Languages Common, Infernal
your way. AC 14, touch 11, flat-footed 12; Dodge
Immune mind-reading, poison
Fort +5, Ref +7, Will +8; +2 against charm effects
TACTICS Speed 40 ft. (8 squares)
With the minor precaution of casting shield, Lieth starts Melee sting +7 (2d4+2 plus poison) and
combat with lightning bolt (if two or more PCs are lined up) bite +2 (1d4+1)
or scorching ray. Only if the PCs are undeterred by her initial Space 10 ft.; Reach 5 ft.
assault does she take the time to cast invisibility and displace- Base Atk +6; Grp +12
ment. She then targets the strongest PCs with her spells or Atk Options poison (DC 16, lapse into nightmare-haunted
flanks with Griffon-Eater and makes full attacks. sleep for 2d4 minutes [initial and secondary])
Special Actions detect thoughts
Sorcerer Spells Known (CL 7th):
3rd (5/day)—displacement, lightning bolt (DC 17)
2nd (7/day)—invisibility, scorching ray (+7 ranged touch,
2 rays), see invisibility
1st (7/day)—expeditious retreat, magic missile, ray of
enfeeblement (+7 ranged touch), shield, silent image
TAKING PRISONERS (EL 7) 0 (6/day)—daze (DC 14), detect magic, light, mage hand,
During the PCs’ exploration of Castle Serastis, they might open/close, ray of frost (+7 ranged touch), read magic
free the prisoners in the dungeon (area K9) and the sacrifices Abilities Str 14, Dex 15, Con 14, Int 16, Wis 15, Cha 19
(area P4). If so, the Vanguard attempts to gather slaves from Feats Alertness, Combat Casting, Dodge, Eschew
the valley for use as replacement sacrifices. If and when the MaterialsB, Lightning Reflexes
PCs are next outside the castle, a patrol of four yuan-ti Skills Bluff +10, Concentration +13 (+17 casting
purebloods leaves the fortress and starts rounding up slaves defensively), Diplomacy +8, Disguise +6 (+8 acting),
Intimidate +6, Listen +11, Sense Motive +8, Spellcraft
from this area (this counts as one of the eight pureblood +12, Spot +11
patrols that can be encountered, as described on page 10). Possessions cloak of Charisma +2
Position them near the northern slaves’ living quarters at Detect Thoughts (Su) As the spell; at will; DC 16; caster
the start of combat. level 9th.
28
Fortress_Yuan_28-53.indd 28 6/6/07 2:26:05 PM

ENCOUNTER F
S Griffon-Eater, Dire Snake
MM2 76
hp 55 (7 HD)
N Huge animal
CR 5
Init +5; Senses low-light vision, scent; Listen +8, Spot +8

Languages —
AC 18, touch 13, flat-footed 13
Fort +8, Ref +10, Will +6
Speed 30 ft. (6 squares), climb 20 ft., swim 20 ft.
Melee bite +10 (2d6+10 plus poison)
Space 15 ft.; Reach 10 ft.
Base Atk +5; Grp +20
Atk Options constrict 1d8+10, improved grab, poison
(DC 16, 1d6 Con/1d6 Con)
Abilities Str 24, Dex 20, Con 16, Int 1, Wis 13, Cha 11
Feats Alertness, Endurance, Toughness
Skills Balance +14, Climb +15, Hide +6, Listen +8,
Spot +8
Improved Grab (Ex) To use this ability, Griffon-Eater
must hit with his bite attack. He can then attempt to
start a grapple as a free action without provoking FEATURES OF THE AREA
attacks of opportunity. If he wins the grapple check, he Crops: The rows of crops are treated as light undergrowth.
establishes a hold and can constrict. A square covered with light undergrowth costs 2 squares of
Skills Griffon-Eater has a +8 racial bonus on Climb checks
movement to enter and provides concealment. Undergrowth
and can always choose to take 10 on Climb checks, even
if rushed or threatened. increases the DC of Tumble and Move Silently checks by 2.
Griffon-Eater has a +8 racial bonus on any Swim A creature with a slashing weapon can clear a square of light
check to perform some special action or avoid a hazard. undergrowth with a full-round action.
He can always choose to take 10 on Swim checks, even Simple Wooden Door: All the buildings except the Box
if distracted or endangered. He can use the run action (F8) have these doors. 1 inch thick; hardness 5, hp 10, break
when swimming, provided he swims in a straight line. DC 15 (locked).
Wooden Walls: All the buildings except the Box (F8)
4 Yuan-Ti Purebloods CR 3 have these walls. 6 inches thick; hardness 5, hp 60, break
MM 263
hp 18 each (4 HD) DC 20 per 10-foot-by-10-foot section; Climb DC 21.
Wooden walls increase the DC of Listen checks to hear
CE Medium monstrous humanoid
Init +5; Senses darkvision 60 ft.; Listen +4, Spot +4
through them by 5. If a wooden wall is breached, the squares
Languages Abyssal, Common, Draconic, Yuan-Ti breached and all adjacent nonwall squares become light
AC 17, touch 11, flat-footed 16; Dodge
rubble (see page 52).
SR 14 Rusty Iron Door: This is the door in the Box (F8). 2 inches
Fort +1, Ref +5, Will +4 thick; hardness 8, hp 30, break DC 26 (locked).
Speed 30 ft. (6 squares) Iron Walls: These are the walls in the Box (F8). 3 inches
Melee mwk scimitar +5 (1d6/18–20) thick; hardness 10, hp 90, break DC 30 per 10-foot-by-
Ranged mwk longbow +6 (1d8/×3) 10-foot section; Climb DC 25. Iron walls increase the DC
Base Atk +4; Grp +4 of Listen checks to hear through them by 15. If an iron wall
Atk Options Blind-Fight is breached, the squares breached and all adjacent nonwall
Spell-Like Abilities (CL 4th): squares become light rubble (see page 52).
At will—detect poison (CL 6th) Gradual Slope: Characters gain a +1 bonus on melee
1/day—animal trance (DC 13), cause fear (DC 12), charm attack rolls against foes downhill from them.
person (DC 12), darkness, entangle (DC 12)
Slow, Shallow Stream: Moving through this stream
Abilities Str 11, Dex 13, Con 11, Int 12, Wis 10, Cha 12 requires a DC 10 Swim check. The water is shallow enough
SQ alternate form
Feats AlertnessB, Blind-FightB, Dodge, Improved Initiative
to wade instead, but this impedes movement. Treat as light
Skills Concentration +7, Disguise +4*, Hide +3, Knowledge undergrowth (see above).
(religion) +5, Listen +4, Spot +4 Large Tree: 5 feet thick; AC 3, hardness 5, hp 600,
*A pureblood gains a +5 racial bonus on Disguise break DC 35; Climb DC 15. This tree takes up 1 square
checks when impersonating a human. and provides cover to anyone behind it.
Possessions masterwork studded leather armor,
masterwork heavy steel shield, masterwork scimitar,
masterwork longbow with 20 arrows
Alternate Form (Sp) A yuan-ti can assume the form of a
Tiny to Large viper (MM 280) as a psionic ability. 29

ENCOUNTER K3
THE GREAT HALL

Encounter Level 7 Elvarel Prath
hp 36 (5 HD)
CR 5
Male half-elf cleric 5
SETUP CE Medium humanoid (elf)
Elvarel Prath (P) has taken cover behind the guardian mega- Init +0; Senses low-light vision; Listen +4, Spot +4
raptor skeleton (G). The PCs should be placed beside or within Languages Common, Elven
the entrance. AC 20, touch 10, flat-footed 20
Immune sleep
When the first PC enters the chamber, read: Fort +8, Ref +1, Will +7; +2 against enchantment
Speed 20 ft. (4 squares) in full plate, base speed 30 ft.
Suddenly, a voice calls out “Slay the intruders!” With a creak Melee light mace +3 (1d6)
of old bones, the skeleton breaks into a charge. Base Atk +3; Grp +3
Atk Options smite 1/day (+4 attack, +5 damage)
Special Actions rebuke undead 4/day (+3, 2d6+6, 5th),
TACTICS spontaneous casting (inflict spells)
Prath stays behind the guardian as he casts sanctuary on Cleric Spells Prepared (CL 5th):
himself. While the guardian fights, he heals it with inflict 3rd—bestow curse (+3 melee touch, DC 16), cure serious
spells for as long as possible, then shifts to spell attacks. wounds, contagionD (+3 melee touch, DC 16)
The guardian fights until destroyed. If Prath is reduced to 2nd—death knell (DC 15), hold person (DC 15), shatter D
10 or fewer hit points, he pretends to surrender in the hope (DC 15), silence (DC 15)
of luring PCs close. He then tries to surprise a weakened PC 1st—command (DC 14), divine favor, protection from
by attacking, and fights to the death. goodD (CL 6th), sanctuary, shield of faith
0—detect magic (2), detect poison, light, resistance
D: Domain spell. Deity: Sertrous. Domains: Destruction,
Evil.
FEATURES OF THE AREA SQ strong aura of chaos, strong aura of evil
The area has the following features. Feats Combat Casting, Great Fortitude
Shallow Pool: It costs 2 squares of movement to enter Skills Concentration +8 (+12 casting defensively),
a space in a shallow pool, and the DC of Tumble checks in Diplomacy +3, Gather Information +3, Knowledge
(religion) +6, Listen +4, Search +1, Spellcraft +4,
such squares increases by 2. Shallow pools impose a –2 Spot +4
circumstance penalty on Move Silently checks. Possessions +1 full plate, light steel shield, light mace,
Winch: 2 feet thick; hardness 5, hp 270, break DC 25. silver holy symbol
A winch provides cover. If a winch is broken, the squares it
occupies become dense rubble (see page 52). The Guardian, Advanced
Megaraptor Skeleton CR 6
MM 227
hp 78 (12 HD); DR 5/bludgeoning
NE Huge undead
Init +7; Senses darkvision 60 ft., Listen +0, Spot +0
Languages —
Immune cold; undead immunities (MM 317)
Speed 60 ft. (12 squares)
Melee talons +9 (2d8+5) and
2 claws +4 each (1d8+2) and
bite +4 (2d6+2)
Abilities Str 21, Dex 17, Con —, Int —, Wis 10, Cha 1
SQ undead traits (MM 317)
Feats Improved InitiativeB
Skills —
30

ENCOUNTER K8
THE LESSER SHRINE
Encounter Level 6 TACTICS
Chavakuth ducks down behind the altar, hoping to have a
round or two to cast barkskin and obscuring mist. However, if
SETUP the PCs are too close when combat begins, he simply attacks.
Chavakuth (C) has been standing beside the altar during The druid targets individual PCs with poison, flame blade, and
any previous discussions with the PCs. When negotiations produce flame if possible, but wades into melee with spear and
break down, have the PCs placed anywhere between the bite if he must.
altar and the door.
As Chavakuth prepares to attack, read: DEVELOPMENT

If the PCs initiated combat before he could speak to them,
The lizardfolk druid’s dark eyes narrow as he hisses an Chavakuth surrenders if reduced to 12 or fewer hit points,
incantation and steps back. attempting to bargain as though the fight had not occurred.
If the melee began because the PCs offended him during
negotiations, his pride and anger drive him to fight to the
Chavakuth CR 6 death.
MM 169
hp 49 (7 HD)
Male lizardfolk druid 5
NE Medium humanoid (reptilian) FEATURES OF THE AREA
Init +0; Senses Listen +3, Spot +3 The area has the following features.
Languages Abyssal, Common, Draconic, Druidic
Small Stone Altar: 3 feet thick; hardness 8, hp 540,
AC 20, touch 10, flat-footed 20 break DC 40. An altar provides cover. If an altar is broken,
Fort +6, Ref +4, Will +7; +4 against spell-like abilities of fey
the squares it occupies become dense rubble (see page 52).
Speed 30 ft. (6 squares); woodland stride It costs 1 extra square of movement to cross the altar. A
Melee shortspear +4 (1d6) and creature can make a DC 10 Jump check to cross the altar
bite +2 (1d4) or
Melee flame blade +4 touch (1d8+2 fire) and without impeding movement.
bite +2 (1d4)
Base Atk +4; Grp +4
Atk Options Blind-Fight
Special Actions spontaneous casting (summon nature’s ally
spells), wild shape 1/day (5 hours)
Combat Gear potion of cure moderate wounds
Druid Spells Prepared (CL 5th):
3rd—call lightning (DC 16), poison (+4 melee touch,
DC 16)
2nd—barkskin, flame blade, fog cloud
1st—jump, longstrider, obscuring mist, produce flame
(+4 melee touch or ranged touch)
0—create water, cure minor wounds, detect magic, detect
poison, light
SQ hold breath (60 rounds), trackless step, wild empathy
+8 (+4 magical beasts)
Feats Blind-Fight, Combat Casting, Multiattack
Skills Balance +9, Concentration +10 (+14 casting
defensively), Handle Animal +6, Jump +9, Knowledge
(nature) +7, Listen +3, Ride +2, Spellcraft +5, Spot +3,
Survival +9, Swim +9
Possessions combat gear plus +1 leather armor, +1 light
wooden shield, shortspear
31

ENCOUNTER K9
THE DUNGEON
Encounter Level 7 When Yensurros manifests and attacks, read:
A cold wind suddenly rises from nowhere, sending a chill up

SETUP your spine as it wafts across you. A hideous apparition appears
Yensurros (Y) begins where marked when the PCs enter from the shadows, visible but transparent. It has the snakelike
the area, but unless they can detect ethereal creatures, they features of a yuan-ti halfblood, its flesh sunken in death and
remain unaware of him. The ghost moves to observe the its gnarled claws outstretched to attack.
PCs for a few rounds, then attacks when they are distracted.
Unless the PCs can detect his presence, Yensurros gains
a surprise round, and can be placed anywhere in the area. TACTICS
The PCs’ starting positions depend on whatever actions they Yensurros is an intelligent combatant, and he makes full use
declared they were taking in the room. of his incorporeal nature. Rather than engage in a toe-to-toe
Place the prisoners (P) in the cells as marked. Although slugfest with the PCs, he slides into the floor or through one
they are not likely to participate in combat, Yensurros might of the cell walls, hiding before coming back at a foe from a
involve them anyway. Only their defensive statistics are pre- different direction. He attempts to avoid closing with anyone
sented below, in case the ghost attempts to use them as cover. who has displayed the ability to strike him, whether with
Though the prisoners vary in class and abilities, assume that spells or weapons. With his draining touch, he first attempts
their weakened state has reduced their average hit points, to drain Strength or Constitution from wizards or sorcerers
saving throw modifiers, and Dexterity modifier to AC as in the hope of crippling them quickly.
indicated below.
FEATURES OF THE AREA

The area has the following features.
Illumination: A pair of continual flame sconces light both
ends of the chamber. The northernmost and southernmost
30 feet of the area are brightly illuminated, while the central
40-foot area has only shadowy illumination.
Iron-Reinforced Wooden Door: 1 foot thick; hardness
5, hp 150, break DC 25.
Gradual Stairs: Anyone standing on the stairs gains a
+1 bonus on melee attack rolls against foes below.
STRIKING COVER INSTEAD OF A

MISSED TARGET
In ranged combat against a target that has cover, it might
be important to know whether the cover was struck by an
incoming attack that misses the intended target. First, de-
termine if the attack roll would have hit the protected target
without the cover. If the attack roll falls within a range low
enough to miss the target with the cover but high enough to
strike the target if there had been no cover, the object used
for cover was struck. If a creature is providing cover for
another character and the attack roll exceeds the AC of the
covering creature, the covering creature takes the damage
intended for the target.
If the covering creature has a Dexterity bonus to AC or
a dodge bonus, and this bonus keeps the covering creature
from being hit, then the original target is hit instead. The
covering creature has dodged out of the way and didn’t
provide cover after all. A covering creature can choose not
to apply its Dexterity bonus to AC and/or its dodge bonus
32 if its intent is to try to take the damage in order to keep the
covered character from being hit.

ENCOUNTER K9
Yensurros attacks through thin doors or even through using living prisoners for cover, since he can literally move
prisoners, using them as cover. If the PCs attempt to attack through them.
the ghost through a prisoner, consider using the optional Between his undying belief in Sertrous and his reju-
rules for striking cover (see sidebar). Although these rules are venation ability, Yensurros has no fear. He fights until
normally intended for ranged combat, apply them to melee destroyed.
attacks as well if they are made against Yensurros when he is
Yensurros, Yuan-Ti Halfblood Ghost CR 7 Telekinesis (Su) As the spell; at will; caster level 12th. After
MM 264, MM 116 using this ability, Yensurros must wait 1d4 rounds to
hp 45 (7 HD) use it again.
CE Medium undead (augmented monstrous humanoid) Alternate Form (Sp) Yensurros can assume the form of a
(incorporeal) Tiny to Large viper (MM 280) as a psionic ability. He
Init +5; Senses darkvision 60 ft., scent; Listen +24, uses his own poison for the viper’s bite attack. The
Spot +24 poison is effective against ethereal foes only.
Languages Abyssal, Common, Draconic, Yuan-Ti Chameleon Power (Sp) Yensurros can change the
coloration of himself and his equipment to match his
AC 16, touch 16, flat-footed 15; Dodge or surroundings, granting him a +10 circumstance bonus
AC 15, touch 11, flat-footed 15; Dodge (ethereal encounters on Hide checks.
only) Manifestation (Su) As a ghost, Yensurros dwells on the
Miss Chance 50% (incorporeal) Ethereal Plane and, as an ethereal creature, he cannot
Immune undead immunities (MM 317) affect or be affected by anything in the material world.
Resist turn resistance +4; SR 16 When a ghost manifests, it partly enters the Material
Fort +2, Ref +6, Will +9 Plane and becomes visible but incorporeal on the
Speed fly 30 ft. (perfect) (6 squares) Material Plane. A manifested ghost can be harmed only
Melee incorporeal touch +8 (draining touch) and by other incorporeal creatures, magic weapons, or
bite +3 (draining touch) or spells, with a 50% chance to ignore any damage from a
Melee incorporeal touch +9 (draining touch) and corporeal source. A manifested ghost can pass through
bite +4 (1d6+1 plus poison plus draining touch) against solid objects at will, and its own attacks pass through
ethereal foes armor. A manifested ghost always moves silently.
Base Atk +7; Grp +9 (ethereal foes only) A manifested ghost can strike with its touch attack or
Atk Options Blind-Fight, Combat Expertise; draining touch, with a ghost touch weapon. A manifested ghost
poison (DC 14, 1d6 Con/1d6 Con), produce acid remains partially on the Ethereal Plane, where it is not
Special Actions telekinesis incorporeal. A manifested ghost can be attacked by
Spell-Like Abilities (CL 8th): opponents on either the Material Plane or the Ethereal
At will—detect poison (CL 6th) Plane. The ghost’s incorporeality helps protect it from
3/day—animal trance (DC 17), cause fear (DC 16), foes on the Material Plane, but not from foes on the
entangle (DC 16) Ethereal Plane.
1/day—deeper darkness, neutralize poison, suggestion When a spellcasting ghost is not manifested and is
(DC 18) on the Ethereal Plane, its spells cannot affect targets on
Abilities Str 15, Dex 13, Con —, Int 18, Wis 18, Cha 20 the Material Plane, but they work normally against
SA draining touch, poison, produce acid, telekinesis ethereal targets. When a spellcasting ghost manifests,
SQ alternate form, chameleon power, manifestation, its spells continue to affect ethereal targets and can
rejuvenation, undead traits (MM 317) affect targets on the Material Plane normally unless the
Feats AlertnessB, Blind-FightB, Combat Expertise, Dodge, spells rely on touch. A manifested ghost’s touch spells
Improved Initiative don’t work on nonethereal targets.
Skills Concentration +15, Knowledge (religion) +14, A ghost has two home planes, the Material Plane
Knowledge (the planes) +14, Hide +19*, Listen +24, and the Ethereal Plane. It is not considered extraplanar
Search +12, Spot +24 when on either of these planes.
*A halfblood using chameleon power gains a +10 Rejuvenation (Su) If he would otherwise be destroyed,
circumstance bonus on Hide checks. Yensurros returns in 2d4 days if he makes a successful
DC 16 level check (1d20 + 7 HD). Yensurros’ reason for
Draining Touch (Su) Yensurros drains 1d4 points from one existence is to serve Sertrous, who he worships as a
ability score of his choice when he hits a living creature deity. If Sertrous’s true nature can be proven to
with an incorporeal touch attack. On each successful Yensurros, he can then be permanently destroyed.
attack, he heals 5 points of damage to himself.
Produce Acid (Sp) A yuan-ti halfblood has the psionic Prisoners CR —
power to exude acid from its body, dealing 3d6 points hp 6 (1 HD)
of acid damage to the next creature it touches, AC 11, touch 11, flat-footed 10 (helpless)
including a creature hit by its bite attack. If the yuan-ti is Fortitude +1, Reflex +1, Will +1
grappling or pinning a foe when it uses this power, its
grasp deals 5d6 points of acid damage. The acid
becomes inert when it leaves the yuan-ti’s body, and the
yuan-ti is immune to its effect. Yensurros can use this 33
ability on ethereal foes only.

ENCOUNTER K11
GARBAGE PIT
Encounter Level 5 Gophodros, Spellwarped* Otyugh
*MM3 162
CR 5
hp 48 (6 HD)
SETUP NE Large aberration
The spellwarped otyugh Gophodros (G) occupies the bulk of Init +1; Senses darkvision 60 ft., scent; Listen +6, Spot +6
the pit bottom. The PCs’ starting positions depend on their Languages Common
actions while exploring the room. AC 20, touch 10, flat-footed 19
SR 17
When the encounter begins, read: Fort +5, Ref +3, Will +6
With a revolting gurgle, two sucker-tipped tentacles shoot up Melee 2 tentacles +6 each (1d6+2) and
from the base of the pit. bite +0 (1d4+1)
Space 10 ft.; Reach 10 ft. (15 ft. with tentacles)
TACTICS Atk Options constrict 1d6+2, disease, improved grab
Gophodros’s reach plus the depth of the garbage in the pit Abilities Str 15, Dex 12, Con 17, Int 9, Wis 12, Cha 6
allow it to attack targets anywhere within 15 feet of the SQ spell absorption
pit’s edge. The otyugh single-mindedly attempts to grapple Feats Alertness, Toughness, Weapon Focus (tentacle)
targets and drag them into the pit, where it constricts and Skills Hide +0*, Listen +6, Spot +6
consumes them. *An otyugh has a +8 racial bonus on Hide checks in its
If reduced to 15 or fewer hit points, Gophodros throws any lair, due to its natural coloration.
current victims out of the pit. The creature then takes cover Disease (Ex) Filth fever—bite, Fort DC 16, incubation
beneath the garbage, hoping to be left alone. period 1d3 days, damage 1d3 Dex and 1d3 Con.
Improved Grab (Ex) To use this ability, Gophodros must hit
with a tentacle attack. It can then attempt to start a
grapple as a free action without provoking attacks of
opportunity. If it wins the grapple check, it establishes a
hold and can constrict.
Spell Absorption (Su) Whenever a spell fails to penetrate
Gophodros’s spell resistance, it gains one of the
following benefits, chosen at the time the spell resolves.
Might: +4 enhancement bonus to Strength for 1
minute.
Agility: +4 enhancement bonus to Dexterity for 1
minute.
Endurance: +4 enhancement bonus to Constitution
for 1 minute.
Life: Temporary hit points equal to 5 × the level of
the failed spell.
Speed: Gophodros’s base speed increases by a
number of feet equal to 5 × the level of the failed spell.
Resistance: Gophodros gains resistance 10 to one
energy type of its choice.
Tumble checks. A creature attempting to run or charge over

light rubble must succeed on a DC 10 Balance check.
Gophodros is accustomed to this terrain and is not
impeded.
Pit: Anyone falling or climbing into the pit is sickened
FEATURES OF THE AREA for 4d4 minutes (Fortitude DC 18 negates). The rough
The area has the following features. walls are slick with old garbage and blood (Climb DC 25).
Garbage: The garbage at the base of the pit is treated as Garbage is piled to within 10 feet of the top of the pit, but
light rubble. Light rubble adds 2 to the DC of Balance and it is soft enough that a fall deals no damage.
34

ENCOUNTER K18
THE WAY FORWARD
After the shield is triggered (a move action; see below), both
poison dusks take cover as they shoot with their longbows.
SETUP They use bolas to slow any PCs who approach within 20 feet,
The PCs’ starting positions depend on when the lizardfolk switching to melee only when forced to do so.
spot them. If one guard is slain and the other is reduced to 16 or fewer
hp, the survivor attempts to flee (first casting longstrider if
As the PCs are spotted, read: possible). If no clear path to the exits can be found, it instead
fights to the death.
The two lizardfolk snarl as they see you. One of them stomps
down hard, causing a rectangular sheet of metal to spring up
from the step below. The two guards drop behind it, bows
drawn.
Kallist and Shillonok CR 4 Stair Shield: 2 inches thick; AC 6, hardness 5, hp 20,
MM3 96 break DC 22. A small switch on the floor causes a 3-foot-
hp 33 each (4 HD) high metal barrier to rise between the top and second steps.
Poison dusk lizardfolk ranger 4 Anyone on the top step or the landing has cover against
NE Small humanoid (reptilian) anyone lower on the staircase. Climbing over the shield from
Init +7; Senses low-light vision; Listen +1, Spot +8
Languages Draconic
a lower step is a move action.
Uneven Stairs: Though their slope is gradual, the uneven
AC 17, touch 14, flat-footed 14 placement of these steps causes the stairs to be treated as if
they were steep. It costs 2 squares of movement to ascend
Speed 30 ft. (6 squares) each square on these stairs. Creatures running or charging
Melee 2 claws +7 each (1d3+2) and
bite +5 (1d3+1) or
down the stairs must succeed on a DC 10 Balance check,
Melee longspear +7 (1d6+3/×3) and ending their movement 1d2×5 feet later if they fail. Those
bite +5 (1d3+1) that fail by 5 or more fall prone and take 1d6 points of
Ranged mwk longbow +9 (1d6/×3) or damage. The DCs of Tumble checks increases by 5.
mwk longbow +7/+7 (1d6/×3) with Rapid Shot or
Ranged bola +8 (1d3+2 nonlethal or ranged trip)
Space 5 ft.; Reach 5 ft. (10 ft. with longspear)
Base Atk +4; Grp +2
Atk Options favored enemy humans +2
Ranger Spells Prepared (CL 2nd):
1st—longstrider
SQ chameleon skin, hold breath (64 rounds), poison
use, wild empathy +3 (–1 magical beasts)
Feats EnduranceB, Improved Initiative, Multiattack,
Rapid ShotB, TrackB
Skills Balance +7, Climb +8, Hide +18, Jump +11,
Listen +1, Move Silently +10, Spot +8, Survival +8,
Swim +7
Possessions longspear, masterwork longbow with 20
arrows, bola, key to the western door of K18
Chameleon Skin (Ex) Poison dusks can adjust the colors
of their scales to blend in with their natural
surroundings. When not wearing armor, robes, or
other covering clothing, a poison dusk lizardfolk
gains a +5 racial bonus on Hide checks.
Poison Use (Ex) Poison dusks never risk poisoning
themselves when applying poison to a weapon.
35

ENCOUNTER Y1/Y5
S TAGING
Encounter Level 8
A /L REA OWER
Issiel, Master of the Way
MM 263
L ANDING
CR 6
hp 41 (9 HD)
SETUP Female yuan-ti pureblood enchanter 5
This encounter takes place in two areas simultaneously, so CE Medium monstrous humanoid
be sure to read and fully understand everyone’s position and Init +6; Senses darkvision 60 ft.; Listen +9, Spot +9
tactics. When combat begins, Issiel (I) and Snapwing (S) are Languages Abyssal, Common, Draconic, Yuan-Ti
on the balcony as marked. The PCs should be placed in area AC 17, touch 12, flat-footed 15; Dodge
Y1, not far from the entrance. Snapwing makes himself obvi- SR 14
ous, but it takes a DC 19 Spot check to notice Issiel. Fort +3, Ref +7, Will +8
When combat begins, read: Melee mwk scimitar +6 (1d6–1/18–20)
Base Atk +6; Grp +5
From the balcony, a human-sized draconic form plummets Atk Options Blind-Fight, Sudden Still (1/day; swift action:
downward, ridged wings outstretched. Its scales are a dull Still Spell, no change to effective spell level)
bronze, covered in old scars. As it drops, it calls out in Combat Gear 2 potions of levitate
Common: “Help me! Don’t let them catch me again!” Wizard Spells Prepared (CL 5th):
3rd—deep slumber (DC 18), dispel magic, lightning bolt
If any of the PCs spot Issiel, read: (DC 17)
2nd—blur, invisibility, Tasha’s hideous laughter (DC 17),
Lurking behind the railing on the balcony is what appears to touch of idiocy (+5 melee touch)
be a human. Even at this distance, however, her snakelike 1st—charm person (DC 16) (2), ray of enfeeblement
(+8 ranged touch), magic missile, shield
features betray her as another of the yuan-ti.
0—daze (DC 15), detect magic (2), ghost sound (DC 14),
touch of fatigue (+5 melee touch, DC 14)
Spell-Like Abilities (CL 4th):
TACTICS At will—detect poison (CL 6th)
Snapwing hopes that his pleas for help cause the PCs to hesi- 1/day—animal trance (DC 15), cause fear (DC 14), charm
tate, allowing him to draw near enough to catch them in the person (DC 14), darkness, entangle (DC 14)
area of his lightning breath. He then hits the strongest-look-
ing combatant with ray of enfeeblement, making flyby attacks SQ alternate form
until his breath weapon recharges. Feats AlertnessB, Blind-FightB, Combat Casting, Dodge,
One of Snapwing’s favorite tactics is to make vertical flyby Improved Initiative, Scribe ScrollB, Spell Focus
attacks. This allows him to dive straight down on a foe, attack, (enchantment), Sudden StillB *
and then climb straight back up (albeit at reduced speed). If *Feat from Complete Arcane
he takes more than 20 points of damage in 1 round, he drops Skills Concentration +12 (+16 casting defensively),
to the ground and brings all his natural weapons to bear on Disguise +10*, Hide +9, Knowledge (arcana) +12,
the PCs responsible. The dragon uses his gloves of arrow snar- Knowledge (religion) +8, Knowledge (the planes) +15,
ing to hinder ranged attacks. Listen +9, Spellcraft +16, Spot +9, Survival +0 (+2 on
Snapwing has lived a life of pain and suffering. He attempts other planes)
to flee if reduced to 10 or fewer hit points, but if retreat is not *A pureblood gains a +5 racial bonus on Disguise
an option, he fights to the death. checks when impersonating a human.
Issiel begins by casting shield and blur on herself if Snap- Possessions combat gear plus bracers of armor +4,
wing appears to have the situation in hand. If circumstances masterwork scimitar, spellbook (in area Y3), spell
warrant, she turns invisible and attempts to close on a melee component pouch, keys to map room (area Y2) and her
fighter, casting touch of idiocy and then charm person in the quarters (area Y3)
hope of turning him against his allies. Otherwise, she strikes Spellbook spells prepared plus 0—all except conjuration
from a distance with ray of enfeeblement and lightning bolt. and transmutation; 1st—alarm, burning hands,
Issiel is a manipulator. If reduced to 10 or fewer hit points, hypnotism, Tenser’s floating disk, true strike; 2nd—daze
monster
she attempts to flee or surrender. She begs for her life if
threatened, then proceeds to feed the PCs false information Alternate Form (Sp) Issiel can assume the form of a Tiny to
regarding the Vanguard and its plans. Large viper (MM 280) as a psionic ability.
36

ENCOUNTER Y1/Y5
Snapwing CR 7 FEATURES OF THE AREA
G MM 80
hp 102 (12 HD)
Illumination: The glow of the portals in Y5 sheds bright
Male young bronze dragon light throughout that area and shadowy illumination
CE Medium dragon (water) throughout area Y1.
Init +0; Senses blindsense 60 ft., darkvision 120 ft., low-
Brass Railing: 3 inches thick; hardness 8, hp 25, break
light vision; Listen +17, Spot +17
Languages Abyssal, Common, Draconic, Yuan-Ti DC 25. The railing provides cover. A character next to a
railing gains a +2 circumstance bonus on the opposed
Immune electricity, sleep, paralysis Strength check to avoid being bull rushed off the balcony.
Fort +10, Ref +8, Will +11 Gradual Stairs: Anyone standing on the stairs gains a
Speed 40 ft. (8 squares), fly 150 ft. (good), swim 60 ft.;
+1 bonus on melee attack rolls against foes below.
Flyby Attack
Melee bite +15 (1d8+3) and
2 claws +10 each (1d6+1) and
2 wings +10 each (1d4+1)
Atk Options Power Attack
Special Actions breath weapon
Sorcerer Spells Known (CL 1st):
1st (4/day)—grease, mage armor, ray of enfeeblement
(+12 ranged touch), true strike
0 (5/day)—detect magic, mage hand, message, touch of
fatigue (+15 melee touch, DC 13)
Spell-Like Abilities (CL 3rd):
At will—speak with animals
SQ alternate form, water breathing
Feats Flyby Attack, Hover, Improved Maneuverability (2),
Power Attack
Skills Bluff +9, Concentration +16, Diplomacy +21,
Disguise +15, Intimidate +19, Knowledge (religion)
+9, Listen +17, Search +17, Sense Motive +17, FLIGHT AND
Spellcraft +6, Spot +17, Swim +17
Possessions gloves of arrow snaring
MANEUVERABILITY
Snapwing makes multiple flyby attacks, changing direction and
Breath Weapon (Su) 60-ft. line, once every 1d4 rounds, altitude frequently. His tactics and the unusual space constraints
6d6 electricity, Reflex DC 18 half; or 30-ft. cone, once (he has more room vertically than he does horizontally) warrant
every 1d4 rounds, repulsion 1d6+3 rounds, Will DC
18 negates. a summary of his maneuvering capabilities.
Alternate Form (Su) Snapwing can assume any animal or Snapwing has a fly speed of 150 feet, but this assumes
humanoid form of Medium size or smaller as a horizontal movement. He can dive at twice this speed (300
standard action three times per day. He can remain feet), or climb at half this speed (75 feet). He can change
in animal or humanoid form until he chooses to direction at any time, switching from a dive to a climb or
assume a new one or return to his natural form. vice versa. Normally, Snapwing must cover 5 feet of forward
Water Breathing (Ex) Snapwing can breathe underwater distance to turn up to 90 degrees. However, his Hover feat
indefinitely and can freely use his breath weapon, allows him to halt his forward motion, then fly in any direc-
spells, and other abilities when submerged.
Skills Snapwing has a +8 racial bonus on Climb checks tion (including straight up). He makes use of this ability
and can always choose to take 10 on Climb checks, when making his vertical flyby attacks, as described above.
even if rushed or threatened. When making a vertical flyby attack, Snapwing cannot
Snapwing has a +8 racial bonus on any Swim cover the entire height of the tower. However, he can easily
check to perform some special action or avoid a strike area Y1 from Y5 and get back in a single move.
hazard. He can always choose to take 10 on Swim
checks, even if distracted or endangered. He can use IMPROVED MANEUVERABILITY
the run action when swimming, provided he swims in (from Draconomicon)
a straight line.
Your maneuverability in flight improves.
Prerequisites: Fly speed 150 feet, Hover or Wingover.
Benefit: Your maneuverability increases by one category,
from clumsy to poor, poor to average, or average to good
(see Tactical Aerial Movement, DMG 20).
Special: You can take this feat multiple times. Each time
you take the feat, your maneuverability improves by one
category (but never becomes better than good).
37

ENCOUNTER Y6
UPPER LANDING
Encounter Level 7 Bollust, Advanced Yeth Hound
MM 260
CR 4
hp 37 (5 HD); DR 10/silver
SETUP NE Medium outsider (extraplanar, evil)
The monsters begin in the rafters above this level. The loca- Init +2; Senses darkvision 60 ft., scent; Listen +10, Spot +10
tions marking Bollust (B) and the sailsnakes (S) are where Languages understands Abyssal
the creatures appear when combat starts. The PCs should be AC 20, touch 12, flat-footed 18
placed on the stairs. Fort +7, Ref +6, Will +6
Speed 40 ft. (8 squares), fly 60 ft. (good); Flyby Attack
When the PCs enter the landing, read: Melee bite +8 (1d8+4)
Base Atk +3; Grp +6
A growl sounds from the rafters as a black hound suddenly Atk Options Improved Bull Rush, Power Attack, aligned
drops toward you, seemingly running on the air. Behind it strike (evil), trip +3
soar four enormous serpents, membranous wings spread wide Special Actions bay
as they attack. Abilities Str 17, Dex 15, Con 15, Int 6, Wis 14, Cha 10
SQ flight
Feats Improved Bull Rush, Power Attack
TACTICS Skills Balance +4, Jump +9, Knowledge (the planes) +6,
Bollust enjoys knocking foes off the stairs and balconies with Listen +10, Search +6, Spot +10, Survival +10* (+12 on
bull rush attacks. If he succeeds in tripping foes, he happily other planes, +12 following tracks), Tumble +10
savages them while they are prone. *Bollust has a +4 racial bonus on Survival checks when
The sailsnakes begin with their venom spray, then make tracking by scent.
continuous flyby attacks to wear the PCs down. Trip (Ex) If Bollust hits with his bite attack, he can attempt
Bollust fights to the death in an attempt to impress the to trip his opponent as a free action without making a
Vanguard, but the sailsnakes are just looking for a meal. They touch attack or provoking attacks of opportunity. If the
flee if reduced to 5 or fewer hit points. attempt fails, the opponent cannot react to trip Bollust.
Bay (Su) When Bollust howls or barks, all creatures except
evil outsiders and his sailsnake companions within a
300-foot spread must succeed on a DC 12 Will save or
become panicked for 2d4 rounds. This is a sonic mind-
FEATURES OF THE AREA affecting fear effect. Whether or not the save is
The area has the following features. successful, an affected creature is immune to Bollust’s
Brass Railing: 3 inches thick; hardness 8, hp 25, break bay for 24 hours.
DC 25. The railing provides cover. A character next to a Flight (Su) Bollust can cease or resume flight as a free
railing gains a +2 circumstance bonus on the opposed action.
Strength check to avoid being bull rushed off the balcony.
Gradual Stairs: Anyone standing on the stairs gains a
4 Sailsnakes CR 2
MM4 124
+1 bonus on melee attack rolls against foes below. hp 19 each (3 HD)
N Medium animal
Init +7; Senses low-light vision, scent; Listen +8, Spot +8
Languages —
Immune Bollust’s howl
Speed 20 ft. (4 squares), climb 20 ft., fly 30 ft. (poor); Flyby
Attack
Melee bite +5 (1d8+3)
Base Atk +2; Grp +4
Special Actions venom spray
Feats Flyby Attack, Improved Initiative, Improved Natural
WeaponB, Weapon FinesseB
Skills Balance +11, Climb +11, Listen +8, Spot +8
Venom Spray (Ex) 20-ft. cone, once every 6 rounds, blind
for 1d4 rounds, Fortitude DC 13 half.
38 Skills Sailsnakes can always choose to take 10 on Climb
checks, even if rushed or threatened.

ENCOUNTER D1
ENTRY CHAMBER
Encounter Level 7 Scale Golem
hp 85 (10 HD); DR 5/adamantine
CR 7
N Large construct
Init +1; Senses darkvision 60 ft., low-light vision, scent;
SETUP Listen +0, Spot +0
From its sentry position, the scale golem (SG) attacks imme- Languages —
diately upon the arrival of any non-Vanguard in this area. The AC 22, touch 10, flat-footed 21
PCs arrive directly in front of the portal. Immune magic; construct immunities (MM 307)
As the PCs look around, read: Weakness cold and sonic (see Immune to Magic)
From behind the portal lumbers a hideous figure, humanoid Melee 2 slams +10 each (2d8+4)
from the waist up but serpentine below. Its body is a Space 10 ft.; Reach 10 ft.
patchwork of scales and leathery skin—some dried and Base Atk +7; Grp +15
shriveled, some bloody and raw. Special Actions lunging strike
Abilities Str 19, Dex 13, Con —, Int —, Wis 11, Cha 1
SQ construct traits
Feats —
TACTICS Skills —
The scale golem is a creation of the Vanguard, designed for
Immune to Magic (Ex) A scale golem is immune to any
guard duty in the castle. Though it is nonintelligent, the scale spell or spell-like ability that allows spell resistance.
golem’s orders allow it to take advantage of the features of this In addition, certain spells and effects function
area. The creature attempts to knock foes into the pit if the differently against the creature, as noted below.
opportunity presents itself. A magical attack that deals cold damage slows a
The golem fights until destroyed. scale golem (as the slow spell) for 2d6 rounds (no
saving throw). While slowed by cold, the golem
becomes brittle. Its damage reduction can be
overcome by any bludgeoning weapon, and the
FEATURES OF THE AREA golem can be affected by sonic-based spells even if
they allow spell resistance.
The area has the following features. A magical attack that deals acid damage breaks
Illumination: The glow of the portal sheds bright light any slow effect on the golem and heals 1 point of
throughout this area. damage for every 3 points of damage the attack
Pit: The open pit in the center of the chamber is roughly would otherwise deal. If the amount of healing would
cause the golem to exceed its full normal hit points,
10 feet in diameter. Anyone who falls in lands in area D7, it gains any excess as temporary hit points. For
taking 6d6 points of damage. A character who falls or is example, a scale golem hit by a Melf’s acid arrow that
pushed into the pit can attempt a DC 20 Reflex save to grab would normally deal 7 points of damage is healed of
the edge, followed by a DC 10 Climb check to clamber out. 2 points of damage instead. Attacks dealing acid
damage that normally allow a saving throw heal the
scale golem automatically.
Lunging Strike (Ex) By launching itself with its powerful
tail, a scale golem can make a devastating strike. As
a part of a charge, a scale golem can move up to four
times its speed rather than double its speed. Further,
if a scale golem charges a distance of 30 feet or less,
it can make a full attack at the end of the charge.
Skills A scale golem has a +8 racial bonus on Climb
checks and can always choose to take 10 on Climb
checks, even if rushed or threatened.
A scale golem has a +8 racial bonus on any Swim
check to perform some special action or avoid a
hazard. It can always choose to take 10 on Swim
checks, even if distracted or endangered. It can use
the run action when swimming, provided it swims in
a straight line.
39

ENCOUNTER D5
THE LABORATORY
Encounter Level 9 Tolvul, Mind Flayer Inquisitor
MM 187
CR 8
hp 44 (8 HD)
SETUP NE Medium aberration
Tolvul (T) and Lump (L) stand ready to engage the intrud- Init +6; Senses darkvision 60 ft.; Listen +11, Spot +11
ers. Unless the PCs magically silenced their battle with Languages Undercommon; telepathy 100 ft.
the scale golem in D1, the mind flayer and its guard cannot AC 18, touch 13, flat-footed 16
be surprised. They attack the instant the PCs appear. The SR 25
PCs’ starting positions depend on how they arrived in the Fort +3, Ref +4, Will +9
laboratory. Speed 30 ft. (6 squares)
Tolvul attempts to remain hidden behind the table until Melee 4 tentacles +7 each (1d4+1)
it attacks. The PCs must make a DC 20 Spot check to notice Base Atk +6; Grp +7
the mind flayer. Atk Options improved grab
Special Actions extract, mind blast
As the PCs orient themselves, read: Combat Gear 2 potions of cure moderate wounds, potion of
invisibility
With a barbaric roar, a yuan-ti halfblood races for you from Spell-Like Abilities (CL 8th):
across the chamber. The creature sneers as it takes your At will—charm monster (DC 19), detect thoughts
measure, a gleaming greataxe in hand. (DC 15), levitate, plane shift, suggestion (DC 16)
If a PC notices Tolvul, read: Feats Ability Focus (charm monster), Combat Casting,
Improved Initiative
However, the yuan-ti’s attack is not enough to distract you Skills Bluff +11, Concentration +11 (+15 casting
from the room’s greater threat. Lurking behind one of the defensively), Diplomacy +7, Disguise +3 (+5 acting),
worktables is a gaunt humanoid figure clad in dark green Hide +10, Intimidate +9, Knowledge (the planes) +12,
robes. Its rubbery flesh has a sickly purple hue, and its face is a Listen +11, Move Silently +10, Sense Motive +7, Spot +11
mass of writhing tentacles. Possessions combat gear plus bracers of armor +2, ring of
protection +1
Improved Grab (Ex) To use this ability, Tolvul must hit a
TACTICS Small, Medium, or Large creature with its tentacle
Tolvul begins by using its mind blast, continuing to do so attack. It can then attempt to start a grapple as a free
as long as at least a few PCs remain grouped together. If action without provoking attacks of opportunity. If it
the party spreads out or one of the PCs attacks it directly, wins the grapple check, it establishes a hold and
Tolvul shifts to charm monster before it uses levitate to move attaches the tentacle to the opponent’s head. Tolvul can
grab a Huge or larger creature, but only if it can
out of melee range. If reduced to 12 or fewer hit points, the
somehow reach the foe’s head. If Tolvul begins its turn
mind flayer makes every effort to escape (using plane shift if with at least one tentacle attached, it can try to attach
necessary). its remaining tentacles with a single grapple check. The
Lump focuses his attacks on the strongest melee combat- opponent can escape with a single successful grapple
ants, but despite his raging state, he is obedient to Tolvul. check or an Escape Artist check, but Tolvul gets a +2
If necessary, the mind flayer directs him to focus on those circumstance bonus for every tentacle that was
opponents who pose the greatest threat to Tolvul itself. If attached at the beginning of the opponent’s turn.
Tolvul cannot escape melee, it orders Lump to flank. Caught Extract (Ex) If Tolvul begins its turn with all four tentacles
up in bloodlust, Lump fights to the death. attached and then makes a successful grapple check, it
automatically extracts the opponent’s brain, instantly
killing that creature. This power is useless against
DEVELOPMENT constructs, elementals, oozes, plants, and undead. It is
Tolvul is a high-ranking member of the Vanguard, but it is not instantly fatal to foes with multiple heads, such as
more concerned for its own welfare than anything else. If ettins and hydras.
forced to flee, it marks the PCs for retribution (possibly pro- Mind Blast (Sp) 60-ft. cone, stun for 3d4 rounds, Will DC
viding a hook for future adventures), but it does not return 17 negates. This ability is the equivalent of a 4th-level
to Castle Serastis. spell.
40

ENCOUNTER D5
Lump (Raging) CR 6 FEATURES OF THE AREA
MM 264 The area has the following features.
hp 95 (9 HD) Pit: The open pit in the center of the chamber is roughly
Male yuan-ti halfblood barbarian 2 10 feet in diameter. Anyone who falls in lands in area D7,
CE Medium monstrous humanoid taking 3d6 points of damage. A character who falls or is
Init +6; Senses darkvision 60 ft.; Listen +15, Spot +15 pushed into the pit can attempt a DC 20 Reflex save to grab
Languages Common, Draconic, Giant, Goblin, Orc,
Undercommon, Yuan-ti
the edge, followed by a DC 10 Climb check to clamber
AC 19, touch 10, flat-footed 19; uncanny dodge out.
SR 18 Worktables: Squares occupied by tables are considered
Fort +10, Ref +7, Will +10 difficult terrain, and the table provides cover to adjacent
Speed 40 ft. (8 squares) characters. A character can step up onto a table as a move
Melee mwk greataxe +14/+9 (1d12+6/×3) and action, gaining a +1 bonus on melee attack rolls against
bite +12 (1d6+2/×3 plus poison) those on the floor. Two characters working together can tip
Ranged mwk composite longbow +12/+7 (1d8+2/×3) over a table to provide cover against ranged attacks.
Atk Options Blind-Fight, poison (DC 16, 1d6 Con/1d6
Con), produce acid
Special Actions rage 1/day (8 rounds)
Combat Gear potion of invisibility
SQ alternate form, chameleon power
Feats AlertnessB, Blind-FightB, Improved Initiative,
Multiattack, Skill Focus (Disguise), Weapon Focus
(bite)
Skills Jump +8, Listen +15, Spot +15
Possessions combat gear plus +1 mithral shirt,
masterwork greataxe, masterwork composite longbow
(+2 Str bonus) with 20 arrows, Quaal’s feather token
(bird)
Produce Acid (Sp) Lump has the psionic power to exude
acid from his body, dealing 3d6 points of acid
damage to the next creature he touches, including a
creature hit by his bite attack. If the yuan-ti is
grappling or pinning a foe when he uses this power,
his grasp deals 5d6 points of acid damage. The acid
becomes inert when it leaves Lump’s body, and he is
immune to its effect.
When not raging, Lump has the following changed

statistics: PRISONERS OF THE VANGUARD
hp 77 (9 HD) Although it’s possible for one or more PCs to be taken alive
AC 21, touch 12, flat-footed 21; uncanny dodge by the Vanguard in any encounter, this particular fight is
Fort +8, Will +8 the one in which the party runs the biggest risk of capture.
Melee mwk greataxe +12/+7 (1d12+3/×3) and Depending on the luck of the dice, Tolvul’s mind blast is ca-
bite +10 (1d6+1/×3 plus poison)
Grp +11 pable of taking out an entire party in short order.
Spell-Like Abilities (CL 9th): If this happens, the adventure need not be over. Although
At will—detect poison (CL 6th) Tolvul probably does feast on one of the PCs (adding to his
3/day–animal trance (DC 18), cause fear (DC 17), collection of skulls in area D4), the rest can expect to be
entangle (DC 17) stripped of their gear and imprisoned in the cells (K10).
1/day—deeper darkness, neutralize poison, suggestion There, they await questioning and eventual sacrifice.
(DC 19) Through careful planning, the PCs might be able to stage
SQ alternate form, chameleon power a prison break and continue their quest to thwart the Sacra-
Abilities Str 14, Con 16
Skills Bluff +18, Concentration +10, Diplomacy +14, ment of the Risen Abyss. Because the wizards of the Vanguard
Disguise +21, Hide +10 (+20 with chameleon power), are too occupied with the sacrament to identify captured
Intimidate +8, Jump +6, Move Silently +10 items, the PCs’ gear is all held in area K14.
Alternate Form (Sp) Lump can assume the form of a Tiny Though such an escape will not be easy, it can add a whole
to Large viper (MM 280) as a psionic ability. He uses new level of excitement to the adventure. If one or more PCs
his own poison for the viper’s bite attack. have died, you can even have players take the roles of prison-
Chameleon Power (Sp) Lump can psionically change the ers in the dungeon (recent additions, if the previous captives
color of his equipment and skin, granting a +10
circumstance bonus on Hide checks.
were already freed) who can join up with the rest of the
original party.
41

ENCOUNTER D7
THE LIBRARY
Encounter Level 9 Zoldathra, Master of the Word
MM 264, MM 147
CR 9
hp 76 (9 HD)
SETUP Male half-fiend yuan-ti abomination
Zoldathra (Z) begins on the balcony. The PCs begin in and CE Large outsider (augmented monstrous humanoid)
around the circle that marks where the bottom of the pit (native)
opens up in the ceiling above. Init +7; Senses darkvision 60 ft., scent; Listen +19,
Spot +19
If violence erupts, read: Languages Abyssal, Common, Draconic, Yuan-Ti
AC 25, touch 12, flat-footed 22; Dodge, Mobility
The expression on the yuan-ti’s demonic visage shifts to one of Immune poison
inarticulate rage as he attacks. Resist acid 10, cold 10, electricity 10, fire 10; SR 19
Speed 30 ft. (6 squares), climb 20 ft., swim 20 ft., fly 30 ft.
TACTICS (average)
Though Zoldathra can easily stand on the narrow balcony Melee mwk scimitar +15/+10 (1d8+6/18–20) and
by squeezing, he does not fight there. If the PCs manage to bite +9 (2d6+3 plus poison) or
attack before he can move, he takes a –4 penalty to AC. There- Melee 2 claws +14 each (1d6+6) and
after, he takes to the air, using his spell-like abilities and his bite +9 (2d6+3 plus poison)
bow against the PCs for as long as possible. If forced to the Ranged mwk composite longbow +12/+7 (2d6+4/×3)
ground, he uses his smite good ability on a paladin or cleric. Space 10 ft.; Reach 10 ft.
Once combat begins, he fights until slain. Base Atk +9; Grp +19
Atk Options Blind-Fight, Combat Expertise; constrict
1d6+9, improved grab, poison (DC 18, 1d6 Con/1d6
Con), produce acid, smite good 1/day (+9 damage)
Special Actions aversion
FEATURES OF THE AREA Spell-Like Abilities (CL 10th):
The area has the following features. At will—animal trance (DC 17), detect poison (CL 6th),
Balcony: Anyone on the balcony gains a +1 bonus on entangle (DC 16)
3/day—contagion (+14 melee touch, DC 18), darkness,
melee attack rolls against foes below. deeper darkness, neutralize poison (DC 18), poison
Brass Railing: 3 inches thick; hardness 8, hp 25, break (+14 melee touch, DC 18), suggestion (DC 18)
DC 25. The railing provides cover. A character next to a 1/day—baleful polymorph (DC 20; into snake form
railing gains a +2 circumstance bonus on the opposed only), desecrate, fear (DC 19), unholy blight (DC 19)
Strength check to avoid being bull rushed off the balcony. Abilities Str 23, Dex 17, Con 19, Int 24, Wis 20, Cha 20
Tables and Chairs: Squares occupied by tables or chairs SQ alternate form, chameleon power
are considered difficult terrain, and a table can provide Feats AlertnessB, Blind-FightB, Combat Expertise, Dodge,
cover to adjacent characters. A character can step up onto Improved Initiative, Mobility
a table as a move action, gaining a +1 bonus on melee attack Skills Bluff +11, Concentration +16, Decipher Script +13,
rolls against those on the floor. A character can tip over a Diplomacy +15, Disguise +5 (+7 acting), Intimidate
+13, Knowledge (arcana) +13, Knowledge
table to provide cover against ranged attacks. (religion) +19, Knowledge (the planes) +19, Hide +11*,
Listen +19, Move Silently +15, Sense Motive +11,
Spellcraft +15 (+17 deciphering scrolls), Spot +19,
Survival +5 (+7 on other planes), Use Magic Device
+11 (+15 scrolls)
*An abomination using its chameleon power gains a +10
circumstance bonus on Hide checks.
Possessions masterwork heavy steel shield, masterwork
scimitar, masterwork composite longbow (+4 Str
bonus) with 20 arrows
Improved Grab (Ex) See Sulvaugren, page 51.
Produce Acid (Sp) See Sulvaugren, page 51.
Aversion (Sp) See Sulvaugren, page 51.
Alternate Form (Sp) See Sulvaugren, page 51; DC 23.
Chameleon Power (Sp) See Sulvaugren, page 51.
42

ENCOUNTER P2
LANDING
The baboon wights retain a residual pack instinct, attempt-
ing to work together to bring down one target at a time. They
SETUP are smart enough to flank, and can fight while clinging to
The baboon wights (B) attack from both directions—two the walls. (Their climb speed means they take no penalty to
from higher up the stairs, one from below. The PCs begin AC while climbing.) A baboon wight fighting from the wall
on the landing just outside the door, or up to 1 square up or gains a +1 bonus on melee attack rolls against foes lower
down the stairs. down on the stairs.
Unlike normal wights, these animalistic undead retain a
When the undead appear, read: trace of survival instinct. If one is slain, any other baboon
wight reduced to 5 or fewer hit points flees. If two are killed,
A hooting shriek echoes through the stairwell. From above the last one flees if reduced to 10 or fewer hit points.
and below you, bouncing from stair to wall, come a cadre of
corpse-pale baboons with burning eyes. Their fur is falling out
in patches from taut flesh, and their gaunt muzzles flash
jagged teeth as they attack.
3 Baboon Wights CR 3 Gradual Stairs: Anyone standing on the stairs gains a
hp 26 each (4 HD) +1 bonus on melee attack rolls against foes below.
NE Medium undead
Init +7; Senses darkvision 60 ft., low-light vision, scent; A WHOLE LOT OF NOISE
Listen +6, Spot +6 If the PCs have managed to infiltrate this far into the castle
Languages — without yet drawing the attention of the yuan-ti, the undead
AC 17, touch 13, flat-footed 14 baboons’ constant hooting and hollering alerts the rest of
Immune undead immunities (MM 317) the tower to the presence of intruders. The noise might also
Fort +1, Ref +4, Will +6 draw guards. For the remainder of the PCs’ stay in the Tower
Speed 30 ft. (6 squares), climb 30 ft. of Worship, double the chance for a random encounter to
Melee bite +5 (1d6+3 plus energy drain) and occur each time you check for one.
slam +0 (1d4+1 plus energy drain)
Base Atk +2; Grp +5
Atk Options energy drain
Abilities Str 17, Dex 16, Con —, Int 2, Wis 14, Cha 8
SQ create spawn, undead traits (MM 317)
Feats Alertness, Improved Initiative
Skills Balance +4, Climb +11, Hide +5, Listen +6, Move
Silently +11, Spot +6
Energy Drain (Su) Living creatures hit by a baboon
wight’s slam or bite attack gain one negative level. The
DC is 11 for the Fortitude save to remove a negative
level. For each such negative level bestowed, the wight
gains 5 temporary hit points.
Create Spawn (Su) Any humanoid slain by a baboon wight
becomes a wight (MM 255) in 1d4 rounds. A creature
that becomes a wight in this way does not possess any
of the abilities it had in life. It is not under the control
of the baboon wight that created it, but behaves like a
normal wight.
Skills Baboon wights can always choose to take 10 on
Climb checks, even if rushed or threatened. They can
cling with their feet and need not keep one hand on
the surface they are climbing to prevent themselves
from falling. They must use at least one hand to
advance, however.
43

ENCOUNTER P3
MAIN SANCTUARY
Encounter Level 8 At the same time, you catch sight of a figure above you. A
humanoid clad in black robes edged with green serpents
perches atop the statue hanging from the ceiling as he hisses
SETUP out an incantation. His slitted eyes and sinuous movement
Alerted by the sound of combat in P2, the dread necromancer mark him as a yuan-ti pureblood.
Vsolt (V) has levitated to the top of the hanging serpentine
idol 10 feet above the ground. His halfblood skeleton guards
(S) stand throughout the sanctuary. The PCs are placed adja-
cent to the door and must succeed on a DC 18 Spot check TACTICS
to notice Vsolt before he draws their attention by attacking. Vsolt remains atop the idol as long as possible, taking advan-
As the PCs orient themselves, read: Even as you take in the tage of the cover it provides while he casts spells. He first uses
features of the room, two serpentine skeletons lurch toward you. summon swarm to bring forth a swarm of spiders, counting
If one of the PCs spots Vsolt, read: on their distraction to give the halfblood skeletons an edge
Vsolt CR 7 *Spell found in Heroes of Horror. **Spell found in Spell

MM 263 Compendium. If you do not have access to these
hp 51 (10 HD); DR 2/bludgeoning and magic books, simply ignore these spells; Vsolt has plenty
of others to draw on.
Male yuan-ti pureblood dread necromancer* 6
† Already cast
*Class described in Heroes of Horror
CE Medium monstrous humanoid
At will—detect poison (CL 6th)
1/day—animal trance (DC 16), cause fear (DC 15),
Aura fear (5 ft., DC 17)
charm person (DC 15), darkness, entangle (DC 15)
Languages Abyssal, Common, Draconic, Yuan-Ti
SQ alternate form
Immune death effects
Feats AlertnessB, Blind-FightB, Dodge, Greater Spell Focus
SR 14
(necromancy), Improved Initiative, Spell Focus
Fort +5, Ref +10, Will +10; +2 against sleep, stunning,
(necromancy)
paralysis, poison, disease
Skills Bluff +7, Concentration +13, Disguise +8, Hide +8,
Speed 30 ft. (6 squares) Intimidate +7, Knowledge (arcana) +6, Knowledge
Melee mwk scimitar +7 (1d6–1/18–20) (religion) +5, Knowledge (the planes) +6, Listen +7,
Base Atk +7; Grp +6 Spellcraft +6, Spot +7
Atk Options Blind-Fight Possessions combat gear plus +1 studded leather,
Special Actions charnel touch 1d8+1, magic strike, masterwork scimitar, cloak of resistance +1, 4 onyxes
negative energy burst 1/day (6d4), rebuke undead 7/day (100 gp)
(+4, 2d6+10, 6th), scabrous touch 1/day
Fear Aura (Su) At the end of each of Vsolt’s turns,
Combat Gear potion of barkskin, potion of cure moderate
creatures within 5 feet of him must attempt DC 17 Will
wounds, 2 potions of levitate†, wand of ghoul touch
saves or become shaken. A creature that successfully
(41 charges)
saves cannot be affected again by Vsolt’s aura for 24
† One potion of levitate already drunk.
hours.
Dread Necromancer Spells Known (CL 6th):
Charnel Touch (Su) At will, but no more than once per
3rd (4/day)—crushing despair (DC 17), death ward†,
round, Vsolt can make a melee touch attack against a
halt undead (DC 19), inflict serious wounds (+6
living foe that deals 1d8+1 points of damage. This
melee touch, DC 19), ray of exhaustion (+10 ranged
touch heals undead, restoring 2 hit points per touch.
touch, DC 19), speak with dead, summon undead III*,
Vsolt can use the spectral hand spell to deliver this
vampiric touch (+6 melee touch)
attack from a distance.
2nd (6/day)—blindness/deafness (DC 18), command
Negative Energy Burst (Su) Once per day, Vsolt can emit a
undead (DC 18), darkness, death armor**, death
burst of negative energy that deals 6d4 points of
knell (DC 18), false life, gentle repose, ghoul touch (+6
damage to all living creatures within 5 feet (Will DC 17
melee touch, DC 18), inflict moderate wounds (+6
half). Undead are healed for the same amount.
melee touch, DC 18), scare (DC 18), spectral hand,
Scabrous Touch (Su) Once per day as a swift action, Vsolt
summon swarm, summon undead II*
can use his charnel touch to inflict a disease on a
1st (7/day)—bane (DC 15), bestow wound* (+6 melee
creature, as the contagion spell (Fortitude DC 17
touch, DC 15), cause fear (DC 17), chill touch (+6
negates).
melee touch, DC 17), detect magic, detect undead,
Alternate Form (Sp) Vsolt can assume the form of a Tiny to
doom (DC 17), hide from undead, inflict light wounds
Large viper (MM 280) as a psionic ability.
(+6 melee touch, DC 17), ray of enfeeblement (+10
44 ranged touch), summon undead I*, undetectable
alignment

ENCOUNTER P3
in melee. Vsolt attempts to weaken PCs in combat with ray with his combat spells and his charnel touch and scabrous
of exhaustion, ray of enfeeblement, and crushing despair. If neces- touch abilities.
sary, he uses his rebuke undead ability to bolster the skeletons Unless Vsolt orders them to stand down, the skeletons fight
against attempts to turn them. until destroyed. If the dread necromancer is reduced to 5 or
The skeletons follow Vsolt’s orders but otherwise fight with fewer hit points, he attempts to flee (using his alternate form
mindless ferocity. Under Vsolt’s instruction, they flank foes ability if necessary). If escape is not possible, he calls off the
whenever possible. skeletons and surrenders, though he attempts to escape again
Once one skeleton is reduced to 10 or fewer hit points, Vsolt at the first opportunity.
levitates down from the idol. He uses his negative energy
burst ability to heal the skeletons and simultaneously deal
damage to nearby PCs. He then takes the fight to the party
2 Yuan-Ti Halfblood Skeletons CR 3

MM 264, MM 225
hp 59 (7 HD); DR 5/bludgeoning
NE Medium undead
Languages —
Immune cold; undead immunities (MM 317) FEATURES OF THE AREA
Fort +4, Ref +6, Will +7 The area has the following features.
Speed 30 ft. (6 squares) Desecrate: The chamber is under a desecrate effect centered
Melee mwk scimitar +8 (1d6+4/18–20) and on the hanging idol, which serves as a holy altar to Sertrous.
bite +2 (1d6+3) or This has the following effects:
Melee claw +7 (1d4+4) and • All attempts to turn undead take a –6 profane
bite +2 (1d6+3) penalty.
Base Atk +3; Grp +5 • All undead in the chamber gain a +2 profane bonus on
Abilities Str 15, Dex 15, Con —, Int —, Wis 10, Cha 1 attack rolls, damage rolls, and saving throws.
SQ undead traits (MM 317) • All undead created or summoned in the chamber gain 2
Feats Improved InitiativeB extra hit points per Hit Die.
Skills — These adjustments are already accounted for in the
Possessions masterwork studded leather armor,
masterwork heavy steel shield, masterwork scimitar
skeletons’ statistics block.
Hanging Idol: The chains supporting the idol have AC
Spider Swarm CR — 5, hardness 10, hp 15, break DC 30; Climb DC 20. The
MM 239 bottom of the idol is 10 feet off the floor. The idol’s coils
hp 9 (2 HD) create a solid surface that can support one Medium creature,
Diminutive vermin (swarm) granting cover against any foes on the floor. If two or more
Init +3; Senses darkvision 60 ft., tremorsense 30 ft.; chains are severed, anyone in the room’s 4 center squares
Listen +4, Spot +4 (as well as any creature clinging to the idol) must make DC
Languages — 18 Reflex saves. On a failed save, creatures take 3d6 points
AC 17, touch 17, flat-footed 14 of damage and are pinned beneath the idol (DC 20 Escape
Immune swarm immunities (MM 315), vermin Artist check or DC 25 Strength check to escape).
immunities (MM 317)
Speed 20 ft. (4 squares), climb 20 ft.
Melee swarm (1d6 plus poison)
Base Atk +1; Grp —
Atk Options distraction, poison (DC 11, 1d3 Str/1d3 Str)
Abilities Str 1, Dex 17, Con 10, Int —, Wis 10, Cha 2
SQ swarm traits (MM 315), vermin traits (MM 317)
Feats —
Skills Climb +11, Listen +4, Spot +4
Distraction (Ex) Any living creature that begins its turn
with a spider swarm in its space must succeed on a
DC 11 Fortitude save or be nauseated for 1 round.
Skills A spider swarm can always choose to take 10 on
Climb checks, even if rushed or threatened.
45

ENCOUNTER P4
RELIQUARY
Encounter Level 7/7 or 9 (see below) Shiuahn
hp 57 (7 HD)
CR 7
Female human fighter 7
SETUP CE Medium humanoid
Shiuahn (S) and Arzanezra (A) begin the encounter fighting Init +6; Senses Listen –1, Spot –1
each other at the altar. The prisoners (P) are packed tightly Languages Common, Draconic
together where indicated. Have the PCs placed at the door. AC 19, touch 12, flat-footed 17
When the PCs take action, read: Speed 20 ft. (4 squares) in rhino hide, base speed 30 ft.
Melee mwk scimitar +11/+6 (1d6+4/18–20)
With a shriek of rage, the human torturer drops the Ranged mwk composite longbow +9/+4 (1d8+2/×3)
ceremonial dagger, grabs her shield from the floor, and charges Base Atk +7; Grp +9
you as she draws her scimitar. The prisoner she had been Atk Options Combat Reflexes, Power Attack; rhino hide
struggling with snatches up the fallen blade as she shakily charge
scrambles back. Abilities Str 15, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 12, Wis 8, Cha 10
Feats Combat Reflexes, Improved Initiative, Iron Will,
Persuasive, Power Attack, Skill Focus (Intimidate),
TACTICS Weapon Focus (scimitar), Weapon Specialization
Shiuahn is fanatically devoted to the cult of Sertrous, and (scimitar)
does whatever it takes to prove her worth to her yuan-ti Skills Bluff +7, Climb +10, Diplomacy +2, Disguise +0
masters. Though she was alerted to the party’s presence by (+2 acting), Intimidate +17, Jump +4, Listen –1,
the alarm spell in area P1, the torturer has been distracted Spot –1
by Arzanezra getting the drop on her. She first charges the Possessions rhino hide, masterwork heavy steel shield,
weakest-looking opponent to take advantage of the extra masterwork scimitar, masterwork composite longbow
damage she deals, then takes on one target at a time. If the (+2 Str bonus) with 20 arrows
PCs scatter, Shiuahn continues to make charge attacks if Rhino Hide Charge Shiuahn deals an extra 2d6 points of
possible. She fights to the death. damage on any successful charge attack because of
her rhino hide armor.
Shiuahn is more than willing to fight among the shackled

prisoners, using them as cover. Consider using the optional
STRIKING COVER INSTEAD OF A rules for striking cover (see sidebar). Although these rules are
MISSED TARGET normally intended for ranged combat, apply them to melee
In ranged combat against a target that has cover, it might attacks as well if they are made against Shiuahn as she weaves
be important to know whether the cover was struck by an through the prisoners, since they are unable to properly react
incoming attack that misses the intended target. First, de- to attacks made around them.
termine if the attack roll would have hit the protected target Arzanezra does not use her detect good ability immediately
without the cover. If the attack roll falls within a range low (not wanting to risk losing an attack while Shiuahn presses),
enough to miss the target with the cover but high enough to instead judging the party by their immediate actions. If they
assume that she is a helpless prisoner fighting for her life
strike the target if there had been no cover, the object used
against a foul cultist (as is likely), she plays the part, defending
for cover was struck. If a creature is providing cover for herself against attacks but staying away from melee while the
another character and the attack roll exceeds the AC of the PCs take on Shiuahn. While battle rages, she clandestinely
covering creature, the covering creature takes the damage uses detect good to determine which PCs are susceptible to her
intended for the target. smite good attack.
If the covering creature has a Dexterity bonus to AC or The PCs might determine Arzanezra’s true nature immedi-
a dodge bonus, and this bonus keeps the covering creature ately (for example, if the party contains a paladin whose detect
from being hit, then the original target is hit instead. The evil ability reveals her aura of evil). If she is forced to fight, she
covering creature has dodged out of the way and didn’t casts protection from good (assuming she previously detected
provide cover after all. A covering creature can choose not good characters in the party), grabbing her shortspears (see
to apply its Dexterity bonus to AC and/or its dodge bonus below) but not her armor. She targets spellcasters at range as
if its intent is to try to take the damage in order to keep the long as Shiuahn keeps melee combatants busy. Arzanezra also
covered character from being hit. uses the prisoners for cover, fleeing at the first opportunity.
46

ENCOUNTER P4
Arzanezra CR 7 Abilities Str 16, Dex 8, Con 12, Int 10, Wis 13, Cha 14
hp 50 (7 HD) SQ share spells, special mount 1/day (14 hours, heavy
warhorse), strong aura of evil
Female human paladin of slaughter* 7
Feats Quick Draw, Persuasive, Power Attack, Weapon
*Class described in Unearthed Arcana
Focus (shortspear)
CE Medium humanoid
Skills Bluff + 4, Intimidate +13, Listen +1, Ride +10, Speak
Init –1; Senses Listen +5, Spot +3
Language (Abyssal), Spot +1
Aura debilitating aura (10 ft., –1 AC)
Possessions masterwork chainmail, masterwork light
Languages Common, Abyssal, empathic link
wooden shield
Debilitating Aura (Su) Arzanezra radiates a malign aura
Immune disease
that causes enemies within 10 feet of her to take a –1
penalty to Armor Class.
Speed 20 ft. (4 squares) in breastplate, base speed 30 ft. Cause Disease (Su) Arzanezra can inflict disease with her
Melee +1 shortspear +12/+7 (1d6+4) touch (as the contagion spell), once per week.
Ranged mwk shortspear +6/+1 (1d6+3) Deadly Touch (Su) Arzanezra can deal damage with a
Base Atk +7; Grp +10 successful touch attack. Each day she can deal a total
Special Actions deadly touch 14 hp/day, rebuke undead 5/ of 14 hit points of damage. An opponent subjected to
day (+2, 2d6+6, 4th), smite good 2/day (+2 attack, +7 this attack can make a Will save (DC 15) to halve the
damage) damage dealt.
Paladin of Slaughter Spells Prepared (CL 3rd)
1st—inflict light wounds (+10 melee touch), protection If fighting without her own armor and weapons, Arzanezra
from good has the following changed statistics:
Spell-Like Abilities (CL 7th): AC 9, touch 9, flat-footed 9
At will—detect good Melee dagger +10 (1d4+3/19–20)
1/week—cause disease (DC 16)
DEVELOPMENT Worlds before being caught. She stays with the party, hoping
As long as Arzanezra’s identity is not exposed, she offers to to gain more information regarding the Vanguard’s plots. At
join the party once it becomes clear that they mean to con- the first combat, however, she uses the PCs as a shield while
tinue exploring Castle Serastis. She willingly gives up the she makes her escape.
rusted dagger, claiming her armor and weapons from where If Arzanezra is defeated and interrogated by the PCs at any
Shiuahn stowed them in a corner of the reliquary (the tor- point, she tries to buy her release with what she has learned
turer had planned to hide and sell them). in Serastis. If the party has not yet obtained the information
Arzanezra describes herself as a fighter captured in a presented in What the PCs Don’t Know (page 4), she offers it
nearby forest by the yuan-ti, and claims to know nothing of to them in exchange for freedom.
the castle. In truth, she explored all the way to the Tower of

Small Stone Altar: 3 feet thick; hardness 8, hp 540,
break DC 40. An altar provides cover. If an altar is broken,
the squares it occupies become dense rubble (see page 52).
It costs 1 extra square of movement to cross an altar. A
creature can make a DC 10 Jump check to cross an altar
without impeding movement.
Prisoners: The sacrifices are manacled in place and can-
not shift more than a few inches in any direction (see the
rules for striking cover). Anyone moving through the pris-
oners is considered to have cover. Any movement through
the prisoners requires squeezing.
47

ENCOUNTER S1
THE PORTAL CHAMBER

Encounter Level 8 When a mob is dispersed, some of its members normally
survive unscathed. However, all the demons in the wretched
SETUP tide fight until totally destroyed.
The mob of dretches making up the wretched tide (W) takes
up a vast amount of space, essentially flowing around the
entry portal. The PCs should be placed adjacent to and in
front of the portal. Wretched Tide CR 8
MM 42, DMG2 59
As combat begins, read: hp 243 (30 HD); DR 5/cold iron or good
A mass of hairless, blubbery flesh surrounds you on all sides.
CE Gargantuan outsider (chaotic, extraplanar, evil)
Countless screaming mouths, rending claws, and bloodstained Init +0; Senses darkvision 60 ft.; Listen +5, Spot +5
teeth are all you can see. Languages telepathy 100 ft.
TACTICS AC 12, touch 7, flat-footed 12
A mob of dretches represents the most violent and base form Immune bull rush, electricity, flank, grapple, poison, trip
Resist acid 10, cold 10, fire 10
of this lowest kind of demon. The wretched tide is taught
to avoid the leaders of the Vanguard, but it washes over and
consumes all other creatures. Speed 10 ft. (2 squares)
Melee mob (5d6)
Atk Options Improved Bull Rush, Improved Overrun,
FEATURES OF THE AREA aligned strike (chaotic, evil), expert grappler, trample
2d6+1
Illumination: While it is activated, the glow of the portal Abilities Str 12, Dex 10, Con 14, Int 5, Wis 10, Cha 10
sheds bright light throughout this area. SQ mob anatomy
Feats Improved Bull RushB, Improved OverrunB,
Corpse Hanging on Chain: The chains have AC 5, Multiattack
hardness 10, hp 5, break DC 25; Climb DC 20. A hanging Skills Hide –7, Listen +5, Move Silently +5, Spot +5,
corpse provides cover. A hanging corpse can be pulled Search +2, Survival +0 (+2 following tracks)
from the ceiling by breaking its chain with a Strength Mob (Ex) A mob has no reach, so the wretched tide moves
check. The square a corpse lands in becomes light rubble into an opponent’s space to attack, provoking attacks of
(see page 52). opportunity. It can occupy or move through squares
Uneven Flagstone Floor: A character must make a DC occupied by enemies, and vice versa, though doing so
10 Balance check to run or charge across the floor in this provokes attacks of opportunity. A mob can move
area. Failure means the character cannot move in that through openings large enough for its component
round. creatures.
The wretched tide deals 5d6 points of bludgeoning
damage to any creature whose space it occupies at the
end of its move, with no attack roll needed. Mob
attacks ignore concealment and cover, but DR applies.
Expert Grappler (Ex) The wretched tide can maintain a
grapple without penalty and still make attacks against
other targets. A mob is never considered flat-footed
while grappling.
Trample (Ex) As a mob, if the wretched tide moves over a
creature and doesn’t end its movement with that
creature in its occupied squares, it can trample the
creature for 2d6+1 points of damage. The victim can
either make an attack of opportunity against the mob or
make a DC 26 Reflex save to take half damage.
Mob Anatomy (Ex) As a mob, the wretched tide cannot be
flanked, tripped, grappled, or bull rushed. Spells or
effects that target specific numbers of creatures can
affect a mob. Each creature slain, disabled, or
incapacitated by such spells or effects bestows two
negative levels on the mob. If the wretched tide gains
48 negative levels equal to its Hit Dice, it is destroyed. It
takes half again as much damage (+50%) from area
spells or effects.

ENCOUNTER S2
THE VESTIBULE
Encounter Level 9 2 Nagathas
MM4 102
CR 4
hp 60 each (8 HD)
SETUP CE Medium monstrous humanoid
The fiendish medusa Effandra (E) begins by the door. The two Init –1; Senses blind, blindsight 60 ft.; Listen +15
nagathas (N) attack the moment anyone enters. The PCs can Languages Abyssal, Common
be placed within 2 squares of the staircase end. AC 17, touch 9, flat-footed 17
Immune gaze attacks, illusions, visual effects
As the nagathas spot the PCs, read: Fort +7, Ref +5, Will +7
Speed 10 ft. (2 squares), burrow 10 ft.
Two hideous creatures slither toward you, each with the body Melee 2 claws +10 each (1d8+2) and
of a worm, the head of a snake, and long, sinuous arms. A bite +5 (1d4+1 plus poison)
scaled figure looms beyond them, its hair a mass of serpents. Base Atk +8; Grp +10
Atk Options poison (DC 17, 2d4 Wis/2d4 Wis)
TACTICS SQ viper’s speed
Effandra stays out of melee but remains close enough to use Feats Great Fortitude, Improved Natural Attack (claw),
her gaze. All three combatants attempt to remain upslope. Skill Focus (Listen)
Effandra recognizes the PCs as a serious threat, and cannot Skills Listen +15
afford to let them disrupt the sacrament. She and her minions Viper’s Speed (Ex) Whenever a nagatha takes a double
fight to the death. move or runs, it gains a 40-foot bonus to its land speed.
It can move 100 feet as a double move or run up to
200 feet.
Effandra, Master of Worship CR 8
MM 180, MM 147
hp 33 (6 HD); DR 5/magic
Female fiendish medusa
CE Medium monstrous humanoid (extraplanar) The area has the following features.
Init +2; Senses darkvision 60 ft.; Listen +1, Spot +8 Illumination: The cobra heads on the walls are imbued
Languages Abyssal, Common, Yuan-Ti with continual flame, filling this area with bright light.
AC 16, touch 13, flat-footed 14 Serpent-Carved Floor: A DC 10 Balance check is re-
Resist cold 5, fire 5; SR 11 quired to run or charge across the floor. Failure means the
Fort +3, Ref +7, Will +6 character cannot move in this round.
Speed 30 ft. (6 squares) Sloped Floor: Combatants gain a +1 on melee attack
Melee dagger +8/+3 (1d4/19–20) and rolls against foes downslope from their position.
snakes +3 (1d4 plus poison)
Ranged +2 shortbow +10/+5 (1d6+2/×3)
Base Atk +6; Grp +6
Atk Options Point Blank Shot, Precise Shot, magic strike,
poison (DC 14, 1d6 Str/2d6 Str), smite good 1/day
(+6 damage)
Special Actions petrifying gaze
Combat Gear potion of fly
Feats Point Blank Shot, Precise Shot, Weapon Finesse
Skills Bluff +9, Diplomacy +4, Disguise +9 (+11 acting),
Intimidate +4, Listen +1, Move Silently +8, Spot +8
Possessions combat gear plus +2 shortbow with 20 arrows,
ring of protection +1
Petrifying Gaze (Su) Turn to stone permanently, range
30 feet, Fortitude DC 15 negates.
49

ENCOUNTER S4
SACRAMENTAL CHAMBER
Encounter Level 11 If pressed to melee, the yuan-ti fights intelligently, focus-
ing on one or two foes at a time. He positions himself to
take advantage of his reach and avoid being flanked. As
SETUP the highest-ranking member of the Vanguard and the one
The PCs have reached the endgame. Allow them to be placed responsible for completing the sacrament, Sulvaugren fights
anywhere within 2 or 3 squares of the entrance. Sulvaugren to the death.
(S) stands near the king’s bier, but he moves to attack the
moment the PCs intrude. The chanting priests (P) cannot
move from their positions or participate in the battle. Only DEVELOPMENT
their helpless statistics are presented here. When Sulvaugren is slain, give the PCs 1d4 rounds to investi-
gate the area or deal with the chanting halfblood priests.
As the PCs orient themselves, read:
After the allotted time has passed, read:
The hooded figures seem oblivious to your presence, but the
bloated yuan-ti spins with surprising grace. With a flick of its A dull thrumming fills the room as the floor begins to shake
tongue, it begins to slither toward you. and crack. With a sound like thunder, the central bier
shatters and explodes, filling the chamber with a cloud of
dust and rock.
TACTICS
Sulvaugren begins battle having already used his produce acid Anyone within 10 feet of the king’s bier when it shatters takes
power (unless the PCs magically silenced their battle with 2d6 points of damage (Reflex DC 15 half). If the chanting
Effandra, he heard them coming). He raises his shield of faith yuan-ti are still alive, assume that this slays them. The explo-
as a swift action (included in his statistics) before attempt- sion of the bier triggers tactical encounter S4-A on page 52.
ing to grapple the closest spellcaster for 5d6 points of acid
damage. He then uses his aversion ability on the strongest-
looking combatants.

Illumination: Harmless mystical fire fills this area with
shadowy illumination.
Stone Biers: 3 feet thick; hardness 8, hp 540, break DC
40. A bier provides cover. If a bier is broken, the squares it
occupies become dense rubble (see page 52). It costs 1 extra
square of movement to cross a bier. A creature can make a
DC 10 Jump check to cross a bier without impeding
movement.
Braziers: As long as they remain upright, the braziers
have no effect on movement. Squares containing fallen
braziers are treated as light rubble (see page 52).
Noxious Fumes: A living creature that ends its turn in
a square filled with noxious fumes is sickened (no save).
Creatures immune to poison are immune to noxious fumes.
A creature cannot hold its breath to prevent being sickened
(the fumes irritate the eyes and skin as well). If a brazier is
knocked over, the noxious fumes it creates dissipate after
1d4+1 rounds.
50

ENCOUNTER S4
Sulvaugren, Master of Worlds CR 11 See Invisibility (Su) Sulvaugren’s Deformity (Eyes) feat
MM 264 grants him the ability to see invisibility (as the spell) for
hp 157 (13 HD) up to 1 minute per day.
Improved Grab (Ex) To use this ability, Sulvaugren must hit
Male yuan-ti abomination blackguard 4
a Large or smaller creature with his bite attack. He can
CE Large monstrous humanoid
then attempt to start a grapple as a free action without
Init +5; Senses darkvision 60 ft., scent, see invisibility;
provoking attacks of opportunity. If he wins the
Listen +13, Spot +11
grapple, he establishes a hold and can constrict.
Aura despair (10 ft., enemies –2 on saves)
Produce Acid (Sp) Sulvaugren has the psionic power to
exude acid from his body, dealing 3d6 points of acid
AC 29, touch 14, flat-footed 28 damage to the next creature he touches, including a
Resist medium fortification (75%); SR 18 creature hit by his bite attack. If Sulvaugren is grappling
Fort +18 (+20 against poison), Ref +12, Will +18 or pinning a foe when he uses this power, his grasp
Speed 30 ft. (6 squares), climb 20 ft., swim 20 ft. deals 5d6 points of acid damage. The acid becomes
Melee +1 scimitar +18/+13/+8 (1d8+6/15–20) and inert when it leaves Sulvaugren’s body, and he is
bite +12 (2d6+2 plus poison) immune to its effect.
Space 10 ft.; Reach 10 ft. Aversion (Sp) Sulvaugren can psionically create a
Base Atk +13; Grp +22 compulsion effect targeting one creature within 30 feet.
Atk Options Blind-Fight, Cleave, Improved Sunder, Power The target must succeed on a DC 22 Will save or gain
Attack; constrict 1d6+7, improved grab, poison (DC 21, an aversion to snakes for 10 minutes. Affected
1d6 Con/1d6 Con), produce acid, smite good 1/day (+4 creatures must stay at least 20 feet away from any
attack, +4 damage), sneak attack +1d6 snake or yuan-ti, alive or dead; if already within 20 feet,
Special Actions aversion, energy aegis 20, rebuke undead they move away. A subject unable to move away, or one
7/day (+6, 2d6+6, 2nd) attacked by snakes or yuan-ti, is overcome with
Combat Gear wand of cure serious wounds (6 charges) revulsion. This revulsion reduces the creature’s
Blackguard Spells Prepared (CL 4th): Dexterity score by 4 points until the effect wears off or
2nd—shatter (DC 17) the subject is no longer within 20 feet of a snake or
1st—doom (DC 16) yuan-ti. This ability is otherwise similar to the antipathy
Spell-Like Abilities (CL 10th): spell (caster level 16th).
At will—animal trance (DC 16), detect poison (CL 6th), Energy Aegis (Su) Once per day as an immediate action,
detect good (CL 4th), entangle (DC 15) Sulvaugren can grant himself energy resistance 20
3/day—deeper darkness, neutralize poison (DC 18), against a specific type of energy for 1 round.
suggestion (DC 17) Alternate Form (Sp) Sulvaugren can assume the form of a
1/day—baleful polymorph (DC 19; into snake form only), Tiny to Large viper (MM 280) as a psionic ability. He
fear (DC 18), swift shield of faith† (CL 13th) uses his own poison for the viper’s bite attack.
† Already cast Chameleon Power (Sp) Sulvaugren can psionically change
Abilities Str 20, Dex 12, Con 24, Int 20, Wis 21, Cha 18 the coloration of himself and his equipment to match
SQ alternate form, chameleon power, moderate aura of evil, his surroundings, granting him a +10 circumstance
poison use bonus on Hide checks.
Feats AlertnessB, Blind-FightB, Cleave, Deformity (eyes)B,V, Skills Sulvaugren can always choose to take 10 on Climb
Deformity (obese)B, V, Improved Initiative, Improved checks, even if rushed or threatened.
Sunder, Iron Will, Power Attack, Willing DeformityB, V Sulvaugren has a +8 racial bonus on any Swim
V: As a servant of an evil power, Sulvaugren has bonus check to perform some special action or avoid a
vile feats from Book of Vile Darkness. Effects are already hazard. He can always choose to take 10 on a Swim
accounted for in the statistics block. check, even if distracted or endangered. He can use the
Skills Bluff +12, Concentration +22, Diplomacy +13, run action when swimming, provided he swims in a
Disguise +4 (+6 acting), Hide +4*, Intimidate +17, straight line.
Knowledge (arcana) +13, Knowledge (religion) +17,
Knowledge (the planes) +13, Listen +13, Move Silently 3 Yuan-Ti Halfblood Priests CR —
+8, Search +3, Spellcraft +15 (+17 deciphering scrolls), MM 264
Spot +11, Survival +5 (+7 on other planes), Use Magic hp 38 each (7 HD)
Device +11 (+13 scrolls) AC 10, touch 6, flat-footed 10 (helpless); –4 against melee
* An abomination using chameleon power gains a +10 attacks
circumstance bonus on Hide checks. SR 16
Possessions Aegis Inviolable (page 25), +1 keen scimitar Fort +3, Ref +6, Will +9
51

ENCOUNTER S4-A
THE RISEN KING

Encounter Level 16 his offensive spell-like and supernatural abilities while he
takes the party’s measure. He then focuses melee attacks on
weaker-looking PCs, trusting his poison to overwhelm them
SETUP while his viper swarms keep other opponents at bay.
The starting position of the PCs depend on to their actions The risen king fights to the full extent of his abilities, but
before the explosion. Place the risen king (RK) as marked. the spirit of Sertrous gives him an arrogance that can work
to the party’s advantage. Any foe who deals the king more
As the PCs reorient themselves, read: than 50 points of damage in a single round becomes his sole
target until another character does the same.
Slowly, the dust clears to reveal a gaunt humanoid figure, its Retreat or surrender are not options the spirit of Sertrous
leathery flesh split to reveal bone beneath. An ancient bastard recognizes. The risen king fights until destroyed, collapsing
sword is clasped in its hands, and its empty eye sockets glow to a heap of dust and desiccated bones.
with a gangrenous light.
CONCLUSION
TACTICS With the risen king defeated, the PCs’ quest is finally over.
The spark of Sertrous animating the forgotten king’s bones See Concluding the Adventure, page 25.
is an energy of sheer destructive hate. The risen king uses
FEATURES OF THE AREA ADJUSTING THE ENCOUNTER

The area has the following features. Though the PCs should have reached 7th or 8th level before
Illumination: See page 51. this final battle, the Challenge Rating for the risen king
Stone Biers: See page 51. pushes the high end of an “overwhelming” encounter (EL
Braziers: See page 51. 5+ higher than party level). The special weapons and items
Dense Rubble: It costs 2 squares of movement to enter the PCs can collect (Merthúvial, the king’s dagger, the king’s
a square with dense rubble. Dense rubble adds 5 to the DCs crown, and the king’s scepter) give them an edge in combat
of Balance and Tumble checks, and it adds 2 to the DCs of against the risen king. Likewise, the
Move Silently checks. Char- pool of special action points earned by
acters cannot run or charge disrupting the sacrament gives the PCs
through dense rubble. a significant advantage over an average
Light Rubble: Light party of their level.
rubble adds 2 to the DCs of However, adventures have a way of
Balance and Tumble checks. running counter to the intentions of
Any creature attempting to even the savviest players. If the PCs
run or charge over light rubble have gotten this far without collecting
must succeed on a DC 10 the forgotten king’s relics or amassing
Balance check. a reasonable number of special action
Hot Coals: Hot coals scat- points, one or more of the following
tered across the floor cause changes make this final encounter
1d3 points of fire damage to a more appropriate challenge for a
any creature that ends its turn standard party. At your discretion,
in one of these squares. In remove one or more of the following
addition, the coals are light features of the risen king:
rubble. • All Quicken Spell-Like Ability
Noxious Fumes: See page bonus feats.
51 • Fear and aura of awe.
Uneven Flagstone Floor: • Animate dead and poison blood.
A character must make a DC • Charm monster and confusion.
10 Balance check to run or • Writhing reach (reach becomes
charge across the floor in this 5 feet) and baleful polymorph.
area. Failure means the character
52 cannot move in that round.

ENCOUNTER S4-A
The Risen King CR 16 Hypnotic Gaze (Su) Target dazed for 1 round, –2 on saves
hp 262 (21 HD); fast healing 7; DR 15/good and silver against the risen king’s charm monster and hypnotic
gaze abilities for 1d4 rounds; 30 feet, Fortitude DC 26
CE Medium undead
negates. Creatures that save are immune to the risen
Init +8; Senses blindsense 60 ft., darkvision 60 ft.; Listen
king’s hypnotic gaze for 24 hours. This is a mind-
+5, Spot +5
affecting ability.
Aura awe (80 ft., DC 26)
Invoke the Serpent’s Wrath (Su) Every 1d4 rounds, as a
Languages Abyssal, Common, Draconic, Yuan-Ti;
swift action, the risen king can cause a viper swarm to
telepathy 50 ft.
burst from the flesh of a living creature within 30 feet.
AC 31, touch 20, flat-footed 28 The target takes 10d6 points of damage (Fortitude
Immune electricity; undead immunities (MM 317) DC 26 half). The swarm remains for 4 rounds, serving
Resist acid 10, cold 10, fire 10; turn resistance +8; SR 23 the risen king as a summoned creature.
Fort +20, Ref +18, Will +17 Poison Blood (Ex) Anyone who damages the risen king
Weakness king’s relics, partial outsider with a piercing or slashing melee weapon takes 2d4
Speed 40 ft. (8 squares) points of damage (Reflex DC 26 negates). Creatures
Melee mwk bastard sword +21/+16 (1d10+4/19–20 plus immune to poison are unaffected.
poison) and Evard’s Black Tentacles (Sp) The risen king’s black
slam +15 (1d6+4 plus poison) tentacles take the form of shadowy snakes. Anyone who
Space 5 ft.; Reach 10 ft. takes grappling damage from the tentacles is subject
Base Atk +10; Grp +14 to poison as if struck by the risen king’s melee attack.
Atk Options Combat Reflexes, Power Attack; poison Unholy Ward (Ex) The risen king adds his Charisma
(DC 26, 2d4 Con/2d4 Con) modifier to attack rolls, Fortitude saves, and as a
Special Actions hypnotic gaze, invoke the serpent’s wrath, deflection bonus to Armor Class. He has bonus hit
poison blood, rebuke undead 9/day (+8, 2d6+27, 21st) points equal to his Charisma modifier times his Hit
Spell-Like Abilities (CL 21st): Dice. These adjustments are already accounted for in
5/day—animate dead, fear (DC 20) his statistics block.
3/day—quickened charm monster (DC 20), confusion Writhing Reach (Ex) The risen king’s body appears to
(1 target only, DC 20) ripple and shift. Although his arms do not appear
2/day—quickened baleful polymorph (DC 21), abnormally long, he has 10-foot reach.
quickened Evard’s black tentacles (see below)
Abilities Str 18, Dex 18, Con —, Int 21, Wis 20, Cha 22 Viper Swarm CR —
SQ undead traits (MM 317), unholy ward, writhing reach MM2 172
Feats Combat Casting, Combat Reflexes, Great Fortitude, hp 22 (5 HD)
Improved Initiative, Lightning Reflexes, Quicken Spell- N Tiny animal (swarm)
Like Ability (baleful polymorph)B, Quicken Spell-Like Init +3; Senses low-light vision, scent; Listen +6, Spot +6
Ability (charm monster)B, Quicken Spell-Like Ability Languages —
(Evard’s black tentacles)B, Power Attack, Weapon Focus AC 17, touch 15, flat-footed 14
(bastard sword), Weapon Focus (slam) Immune swarm immunities (MM 315)
Skills Bluff +22, Concentration +16 (+20 casting Resist half damage from slashing and piercing
defensively), Diplomacy +27, Disguise +22 (+24 acting), Fort +4, Ref +7, Will +2
Intimidate +23, Knowledge (arcana) +19, Knowledge
(geography) +19, Knowledge (history) +21, Knowledge
Melee swarm (1d6 plus poison)
(nature) +19, Knowledge (nobility) +21, Knowledge
(religion) +21, Knowledge (the planes) +21, Listen +5,
Base Atk +3; Grp —
Sense Motive +21, Spellcraft +23, Spot +5, Survival +5
Atk Options distraction, poison (DC 10, 1d6 Con/1d6 Con)
(+7 on other planes, +7 avoiding getting lost and
hazards, +7 in aboveground natural environments) Abilities Str 4, Dex 17, Con 11, Int 1, Wis 12, Cha 2
Possessions masterwork bastard sword SQ swarm traits (MM 315)
Feats Weapon Finesse
Aura of Awe (Su) Anyone within 80 feet of the risen king
Skills Balance +11, Climb +11, Hide +15, Listen +6, Spot
who attempts to strike or otherwise directly attack him
+6, Swim +5
must make a DC 26 Will save to do so (as the sanctuary
spell). A creature that successfully saves is immune to Distraction (Ex) Any living creature that begins its turn
the risen king’s aura of awe for 24 hours. This is a with a viper swarm in its space must succeed on a
mind-affecting ability. DC 12 Fortitude save or be nauseated for 1 round.
King’s Relics (Ex) Merthúvial (page 15 or Barrow of the Skills A viper swarm can always choose to take 10 on
Forgotten King) and the king’s dagger (area P4, page Climb checks, even if rushed or threatened.
23) bypass the risen king’s damage reduction. Anyone A viper swarm has a +8 racial bonus on any Swim
possessing the king’s crown (area D5, page 20) gains a check to perform some special action or avoid a
+2 bonus on caster level checks to overcome the risen hazard. It can always choose to take 10 on Swim
king’s spell resistance. Anyone possessing the king’s checks, even if distracted or endangered. It can use the
scepter (page 59) adds +1 to the save DC of any spell run action when swimming, provided it swims in a
that targets the risen king (the scepter must be fully straight line.
reassembled to grant this benefit).
Partial Outsider (Ex) The risen king is susceptible to spells
and effects that deal extra hit point damage to 53
outsiders (such as bane weapons).

When the PCs move ahead, continue with:
Appendix: Through The forest opens up to reveal a small inlet on the shore of a lake. A narrow
waterfall plummets from a tree-covered hill into a grotto lined with
Portals Most Perilous glistening stones. Where the water churns to white froth, a number of
corpses float face down or are scattered along the banks.
The areas described here are not in the environs of Castle Seras-
tis but are reachable through the active portals in the Tower The bodies are those of fey slaughtered by the Vanguard. They
of the Way. Vanguard agents have traveled to them to acquire were descendants of a faerie queen who had blessed the forgot-
components for their dreadful rite. In each case, a faint glowing ten king’s birth, and their blood is a powerful component of
field of crackling green energy remains at the portal’s destina- the sacrament. The PCs are too late to stop the butchery; the
tion, allowing Vanguard operatives (and the PCs) to return Vanguard operatives have already returned with their prize. The
to Serastis. These locations can be placed in any part of your party might still have a chance to do some good, though.
APPENDIX
campaign world. The readaloud text below is meant to be directed at a single

Three of these adventure areas, summarized below, have PC. In order of preference, choose one of the following:
associated maps. Feel free to expand on them by adding random
or additional encounters, and more terrain similar to that • A non-evil druid.
on the maps. The other area, Bloody Grotto, is a noncombat • A non-evil cleric with access to at least one of the Air,
encounter. Animal, Earth, Fire, Plant, or Water domains.
Wretched Swamp: This foul mire is home to Grusildrith, • Any other non-evil divine spellcaster with full spell
a green hag wizard who possesses an ancient phylactery the progression.
Vanguard seeks. The spirit naga Udmuela, a Vanguard agent, • A non-evil ranger.
has come upon Grusildrith and is attempting to seize the • A paladin.
phylactery.
Caves of Horror: A complex of ravines and caverns hides If the party contains none of these characters, this area confers
the lair of Siolim the gauth. Within lies an odd sculpture that is no benefit.
more than it seems. Two yuan-ti ignans, the only survivors of a
Vanguard team, now guard the lesser beholder and its mysteri- When a character has been selected, read:
ous treasure. Over the roar of water, you suddenly hear what sounds like faint whis-
The Blasted Land: Sertrous himself slumbers in a black pering. A gentle voice speaks your name, begging for your assistance.
mountain in the midst of a ruined plain. Over thousands of As you try to get a bearing on it, you sense that it emanates from the
years, his presence has leaked the corrup- grotto and the falls themselves.
tion of chaos into the very earth. Now
it is a twisted land of nightmare. A If the PC in question enters the water
Vanguard team came in search of an near the falls, have the player make a DC
object touched by Sertrous himself. 15 Knowledge (nature) or Knowledge
Now only one survives, but he is not (religion) check (player’s choice). If the
what he once was. check fails, nothing happens. Choose a
second PC (if any) from the list above,
using the same order of preference, to
BLOODY hear the call.
GROTTO When a PC successfully makes the
This portal leads to a seemingly
check, read:
peaceful glade within a deep forest.
The shimmering mists of the falls suddenly
But a wrongness permeates the
take the shape of a woman’s face. Her features
scene. The Vanguard’s quest for
mark her as one of the fey, but her eyes are
the relics needed to fuel the sacra-
glazed over with sadness.
ment continues to claim innocent
“I fear you are too late to aid us,” she
victims.
whispers to your mind. “Yet you have the
chance to avenge us.”
When the PCs arrive, read:
As you step through the portal, you
For the next month, the save DCs and
find yourselves in a sunlit glade of
effective caster level of the selected
deep green. Great trees tower above
PC’s spells, spell-like abilities, and
you, and the smell of growing things
supernatural abilities increase
fills the air. Over it all, however, the
by 1 when they affect any aber-
coppery scent of blood comes faint on
ration, monstrous humanoid, or
the breeze. From ahead, you hear the
undead. The grotto grants this
sound of falling water.
ability only once, and thereafter has
no innate magical abilities.
54
“I fear you are too late to aid us. Yet you have
the chance to avenge us.”

APPENDIX
55

ENCOUNTER: WRETCHED SWAMP
THE WRETCHED SWAMP

Encounter Level 8
When the PCs first see the ruins, read:
In the distance, crumbling walls of stone rise from the waters.
SETUP Most stand some 10 feet in height, though the southwest
The PCs arrive in the midst of a vast swamp and can pick up
corner and a narrow chimney to the east are taller. These
the trail of the Vanguard operative Udmuela.
appear to be the remains of an old keep, lost now to the swamp.
When the PCs step through the portal, read:
Both combatants have taken cover, Grusildrith (G) in the
Lit by the faint glow that marks the portal that brought you
ruins and Udmuela (U) behind a tree. Have the PCs placed
here, you arrive in an expanse of calf-deep, muddy water slick
anywhere on the western edge of the map. Udmuela must
with algae. Small islets of dry land rise from the water in
make a Spot check to notice the PCs, but Grusildrith’s alarm
spots. Cypress trees dangle moss-heavy branches over your
spell announces their arrival once they approach within 20
heads. The scent of greenery and decay is overwhelming, and
feet of the platform.
the buzzing of mosquitoes fills your ears.
When the PCs draw near the ruins, read:
When the PCs arrive, Udmuela is exchanging spells with
Ahead of you, a serpentine form coils and uncoils within the
Grusildrith. The PCs can make a DC 25 Survival check (if
cover of a large cypress tree. Its humanoid head watches in the
anyone has the Track feat) or a DC 28 Listen check to find
direction of the ruins. Amid the crumbling walls, also
her (the sounds of the standoff carry through the swamp).
crouching for cover, you see a green-skinned woman of hideous
Otherwise, they might have to stumble about a bit before
visage. Without warning, she turns to face you as a furious
they locate their quarry.
shriek echoes from the stones.
Udmuela, Vanguard Agent CR 9 TACTICS

MM 192 This encounter is a three-way combat. Udmuela refuses to
hp 76 (9 HD) allow the PCs to interfere with her mission, while Grusildrith
Female spirit naga assumes they are allied with the naga. Each round, each has
CE Large aberration an equal chance of attacking the other or the party. Both
Init +1; Senses darkvision 60 ft.; Listen +14, Spot +14 creatures are intelligent, however, and focus their attacks on
Languages Abyssal, Common whatever foe has the upper hand.
AC 19, touch 13, flat-footed 18 Udmuela opens with fireball if the PCs are in a group.
Miss Chance displacement (50%) Otherwise, she prefers to focus on single foes. If possible,
Resist electricity 10, fire 10 she charms melee combatants into offering her cover against
Fort + 7, Ref +6, Will +9
their allied spellcasters. She fights to the death.
Speed 40 ft. (8 squares) Grusildrith attempts to remain behind cover on the
Melee bite +9 (2d6+6 plus poison) ground, climbing to the raised platform if pressed. If the
fight goes well, she uses dimension door to gain advantageous
Atk Options poison (DC 18, 1d8 Con/1d8 Con) position on the battlefield. If reduced to 15 or fewer hit points,
Special Actions charming gaze she flees using dimension door or fly.
Sorcerer Spells Known (CL 7th):
3rd (5/day)—displacement†, fireball (DC 16)
2nd (7/day)—cat’s grace, invisibility, resist energy†
DEVELOPMENT
1st (7/day)—cure light wounds, divine favor, magic If the PCs retreat from combat while Udmuela still lives,
missile, ray of enfeeblement (+6 ranged touch), shield assume that she succeeds in retrieving the phylactery from
of faith† Grusildrith and escapes back through the portal. Similarly,
0 (6/day)—cure minor wounds, daze (DC 13), detect if the PCs defeat Udmuela and allow Grusildrith to keep
magic, mage hand, open/close, ray of frost (+6 ranged the phylactery, the Vanguard sends additional operatives to
touch), read magic acquire it later. (If Grusildrith successfully flees, assume the
† Already cast (resist energy twice) Vanguard has a 50% chance of finding her new home and
Abilities Str 18, Dex 13, Con 18, Int 12, Wis 17, Cha 17 acquiring the phylactery.) Only if the PCs take or destroy the
Feats Ability Focus (charming gaze), Alertness, Combat phylactery do they prevent its use in the sacrament.
Casting, Eschew MaterialsB, Lightning Reflexes Treasure: The phylactery carried by Grusildrith belonged
Skills Concentration +13 (+17 casting defensively), Listen to the lich Varkathian, one of the few foes the forgotten king
+14, Spellcraft +10, Spot +14 never managed to defeat in his lifetime. Whether Varkathian
Charming Gaze (Su) As charm person, 30 feet, Will DC 19 was later destroyed by another champion or ascended to
56 negates. become a demilich (see the Epic Level Handbook) is unknown,

ENCOUNTER: WRETCHED SWAMP
Grusildrith CR 9 Spell-Like Abilities (CL 9th):
MM 143 At will—dancing lights, disguise self, ghost sound
hp 78 (17 HD) (DC 12), invisibility, pass without trace, tongues, water
breathing
Female green hag wizard 8
CE Medium monstrous humanoid Abilities Str 19, Dex 12, Con 12, Int 15, Wis 13, Cha 14
Init +1; Senses darkvision 90 ft.; Listen +12, Spot +12 SQ mimicry
Languages Common, Draconic, Giant Feats Alertness, Blind-Fight, Combat Casting, Great
Fortitude, Scribe ScrollB, Spell PenetrationB
Skills Concentration +21, Hide +11, Knowledge (arcana)
SR 18
+20, Knowledge (nature) +6, Listen +12, Spellcraft +14,
Spot +12
Speed 30 ft. (6 squares), swim 30 ft. Possessions Boccob’s blessed book, expended phylactery
Melee 2 claws +17 each (1d4+4) Spellbook spells prepared plus 0—all; 1st—animate rope,
Base Atk +13; Grp +17 hypnotism; 2nd—shatter; 3rd—ray of exhaustion, shout,
Atk Options Blind-Fight stone shape
Special Actions weakness
Weakness (Su) Grusildrith can weaken a foe by making a
Wizard Spells Prepared (CL 8th; 1d20+10 to overcome SR):
special touch attack. The opponent must succeed on a
4th—dimension door, phantasmal killer (DC 16)
DC 16 Fortitude save or take 2d4 points of Strength
3rd—dispel magic, fly, lightning bolt (DC 15)
damage.
2nd—mirror image, resist energy†, scorching ray (+14
Mimicry (Ex) Grusildrith can imitate the sounds of almost
ranged touch), touch of idiocy (+17 melee touch)
any animal found near her lair.
1st—alarm†, comprehend languages, expeditious retreat,
Skills Grusildrith has a +8 racial bonus on any Swim check
mage armor†, magic missile
to perform some special action or avoid a hazard. She
0—detect magic, mage hand, mending, touch of fatigue
can always choose to take 10 on a Swim check, even if
(+17 melee touch, DC 12)
distracted or endangered. She can use the run action
† Already cast
when swimming, provided she swims in a straight line.
but his phylactery no longer contains his life force. It has Rating would indicate. Treat both as CR 6 creatures for the
been passed from master to apprentice for generations, start- purpose of awarding experience.
ing with Varkathian’s own apprentice. Grusildrith is the latest Action Points: If the PCs destroy or acquire the phylac-
in that line. tery, thus preventing its use in the sacrament, they gain 2
Experience: Because Udmuela and Grusildrith are likely action points.
to spend as much of their time attacking each other as they
do the PCs, they are less formidable foes than their Challenge
FEATURES OF THE AREA DC 20. Masonry walls increase the DC of Listen checks to
The area has the following features. hear through them by 15. If a masonry wall is breached, the
Deep Bog: The swamp south of the middle contour line squares breached and all adjacent nonwall squares become
is roughly 4 feet deep. A square of deep bog costs 4 squares dense rubble (see page 52).
to move into, and increases the DC of Tumble and Move Raised Path: This represents higher ground beneath the
Silently checks by 5. Running and charging are impossible. swamp water. Anyone standing on the raised path gains a
A creature can swim instead of walking to avoid movement +1 bonus on melee attack rolls against foes below.
penalties. The path south of the middle contour line is shallow bog
Shallow Bog: The swamp north of the middle contour rather than deep bog. The path north of the middle contour
has an average depth of about 1 foot. A square of shallow line has no movement penalties.
bog costs 2 squares to move into, and increases the DC of Raised Platform: A tiny portion of the keep’s second
Tumble and Move Silently checks by 2. It is too shallow to floor still stands. Anyone crouched up here has cover against
swim. ranged attacks.
Light Rubble: Light rubble adds 2 to the DCs of Balance Sinkholes (S): These are areas of spongy earth beneath
and Tumble checks. Any creature attempting to run or charge the water. A creature who enters a sinkhole immediately
over light rubble must succeed on a DC 10 Balance check. halts all movement. A subsequent move action is required
Wooden Ladder: 1-1/2 inches thick; AC 6, hardness 5, for the creature to pull itself out of the sinkhole, ending in
hp 15, break DC 15; Climb DC 0. an adjacent square of its choice. Sinkholes are not visible,
Large Tree: 5 feet thick; AC 3, hardness 5, hp 600, and can be detected only by prodding ahead with a pole or
break DC 35; Climb DC 15. This tree takes up 1 square other long object. Swimming creatures are unimpeded by
and provides cover to anyone behind it. sinkholes.
Ruined Walls: Masonry; 1 foot thick; hardness 8, hp
90, break DC 35 per 10-foot-by-10-foot section; Climb 57

ENCOUNTER: CAVES OF HORROR
THE CAVES OF HORROR

Encounter Level 7/7/7 When the PCs first encounter an ignan, read:
A blast of searing air swirls around you as a reptilian creature
covered in rust-red scales emerges from the side of the ravine. It
SETUP has a massive mace in one hand and a shield in the other, its
Three separate encounters are possible here, depending on
two-pronged tail twitching as though with a mind of its own.
the path the PCs take.
If the PCs enter the gauth’s cave, read:
At the back of this massive cave, a strange sculpture stands covered
The air is warm and the ground dusty where the portal
in a layer of dust. A large golden rod supports an array of six
shimmers faintly behind you. A wide range of steep hills
smaller gems on rods of brass. A seventh, larger gem forms a
stretches to the horizon, several sharp ravines cutting through
centerpiece, also held in place by brass. The design of the piece
them to form narrow valleys. Only scattered foliage breaks the
resembles a beholder, though the sculptor seemingly ran out of
monotonous brown of the landscape.
material halfway through. The gold and gems are clearly of
From where you stand, two separate ravines reach out
greater worth than the bits of brass used to bind them all together.
ahead of you, each featuring a number of small caves at
different heights.
TACTICS
The PCs can choose to enter the eastern or the western ravine, Though under the gauth’s control, the yuan-ti ignans do not
or they can set out across the hilltops. The yuan-ti ignans fight mindlessly but take advantage of the terrain where
guard their new “friend” Siolim (thanks to the power of sug- possible. If either of the ignans hear combat break out with
gestion), Gidrius (G) in the eastern ravine and Lusudrus (L) in Siolim, they move in that direction but arrive only after
the west. Siolim (S) starts in the northeast cave. 1d4+1 minutes.
The PCs should be positioned at the southern end of the If the PCs are exceptionally stealthy, they might catch
map. The ignans are not hiding, so no Spot check is required Siolim in his lair. Otherwise, he emerges at the sound of
to see them. combat or when he spots the party’s approach. In this case, the
gauth observes the PCs from hiding to assess their strengths
If the PCs enter either of the ravines, read: and weaknesses, attacking only after both ignans fall.
The crest of the rocky slope towers above you, obscuring the Siolim takes every advantage of his ability to fly, hover-
hills beyond. A dry wind whips dust through the ravine, ing outside melee range if the fight occurs in the ravines, or
shrouding the echo of your footsteps and the calls of taking cover around corners if fighting within the caves. The
distant birds. gauth attempts to paralyze spellcasters while he uses sugges-
tion to have combat-oriented characters step away from the
FEATURES OF THE AREA such squares increases by 2. Shallow pools impose a –2

The area has the following features. circumstance penalty on Move Silently checks.
Echoes: All Move Silently checks in the area take a –10 Ravine Walls: These crumbling stone walls require a
penalty (a –4 penalty if made by flying creatures). DC 15 Climb check to scale.
Natural Bridge: Characters crossing this arch must Scrub: The low-growing bushes in the area are light
succeed on DC 10 Balance checks or fall. undergrowth. A square covered with light undergrowth costs
Natural Chimney: These vertical passageways average 2 squares of movement to enter and provides concealment.
5 feet in width, and require a DC 15 Climb check. Undergrowth increases the DC of Tumble and Move Silently
Natural Pillars: 5 feet thick; AC 3, hardness 8, hp 900, checks by 2. A creature with a slashing weapon can clear a
break DC 45; Climb DC 20. These naturally occurring square of light undergrowth with a full-round action.
high points give a complete view of the area to anyone willing Steep Slope: Characters moving uphill (to an adjacent
to climb them. It takes a DC 10 Balance check to stand atop square of higher elevation) must spend 2 squares of move-
a pillar due to its uneven surface and the wind that sweeps ment to enter each square of steep slope. Characters running
through the area. or charging downhill (moving to an adjacent square of lower
A natural pillar provides cover. A pillar can be pushed elevation) must succeed on a DC 10 Balance check upon
over with a Strength check that exceeds its break DC, dealing entering the first steep slope square. Mounted characters
10d6 points of damage to creatures in the squares that it make a DC 10 Ride check instead. Characters who fail this
falls in (DC 15 Reflex half). A pillar fills the squares it falls check stumble and must end their movement 1d2×5 feet
later. Characters who fail by 5 or more fall prone in the
58 in with dense rubble (see page 52).
Shallow Pool: It costs 2 squares of movement to enter square where they end their movement. A steep slope increases
a space in a shallow pool, and the DC of Tumble checks in the DC of Tumble checks by 2.

ENCOUNTER: CAVES OF HORROR
Gidrius and Lusudrus CR 7 Siolim, Advanced Gauth CR 7
MM4 188 MM 26
hp 93 each (11 HD); DR 10/magic hp 75 (10 HD)
Male yuan-ti ignan LE Medium aberration
CE Large monstrous humanoid (fire) Init +6; Senses all-around vision, darkvision 60 ft.; Listen
Init +1; Senses darkvision 60 ft.; Listen +8, Spot +8 +4, Spot +21
Languages Common, Ignan, Yuan-Ti Languages Beholder, Common
AC 19, touch 10, flat-footed 18 AC 19, touch 12, flat-footed 17
Immune fire Immune flanking
SR 15 Fort +6, Ref +5, Will +11
Fort +7, Ref +8, Will +9 Speed 5 ft. (1 square), fly 20 ft. (good); Flyby Attack
Weakness vulnerable to cold Melee bite –1 (1d6–1)
Speed 30 ft. (6 squares) Ranged eye rays +9 touch
Melee heavy mace +16/+11/+6 (2d6+5 plus 1d6 fire) and Base Atk +7; Grp +6
gore +13 (1d8+2 plus 1d6 fire) and Special Actions stunning gaze
tail slap +13 (1d8+2 plus 1d6 fire) Abilities Str 8, Dex 14, Con 16, Int 15, Wis 15, Cha 14
Space 10 ft.; Reach 10 ft. Feats Ability Focus (stunning gaze), AlertnessB, Flyby
Base Atk +11; Grp +20 Attack, Improved Initiative, Iron Will
Atk Options Power Attack; constrict 1d8+2 plus 1d6 fire, Skills Hide +15, Knowledge (arcana) +15, Listen +4, Search
improved grab, magic strike, tail grapple +19, Spot +21, Survival +2 (+4 following tracks)
Abilities Str 21, Dex 13, Con 18, Int 6, Wis 14, Cha 11 Eye Rays (Su) Each of a gauth’s eyes can produce a magical
Feats Alertness, Multiattack, Power Attack, Weapon Focus ray once per round as a free action. During a single
(heavy mace) round, a gauth can aim only two eye rays at targets in
Skills Listen +8, Move Silently +4, Spot +8, Survival +5 any one 90-degree arc. The remaining eyes must aim at
Possessions light steel shield, heavy mace targets in other arcs, or not at all.
Improved Grab (Ex) To use this ability, a yuan-ti ignan Each eye ray has an effective caster level of 12th, a
must hit an opponent of up to Large size with a tail slap range of 100 feet, and a save DC of 17.
attack. It can then attempt to start a grapple as a free Suggestion: As the spell (Will negates). Siolim has
action without provoking attacks of opportunity. If it developed this ray in place of a normal gauth’s sleep
wins the grapple check, it establishes a hold and can ability.
constrict. Inflict Moderate Wounds: As the spell, dealing
Tail Grapple (Ex) If a yuan-ti ignan grapples a foe using its 2d8+10 points of damage (Will half).
improved grab ability, it does not lose its Dexterity Dispel Magic: As the targeted dispel function of the
bonus to AC. It can make a single grapple check against spell. The gauth’s dispel check is 1d20+12.
the foe as a swift action each round. The ignan is free Scorching Ray: As the spell, dealing 4d6 points of
to perform most other actions as normal, but it must fire damage (no save). A gauth creates only one ray per
obey the standard rules for moving while in a grapple. use.
An ignan can use armed or natural attacks against a Paralysis: Target must succeed on a Fortitude save
creature so grappled. or be paralyzed for 2d10 minutes.
An ignan making a tail grapple check as a swift Exhaustion: As the spell ray of exhaustion (no save).
action cannot also use a standard or full action to Stunning Gaze (Su) Stun for 1 round, 30 feet, Will DC 19
grapple the foe in its tail in the same round. negates. Any creature meeting the gaze of the gauth’s
central eye is subject to this attack. Since the gauth can
use its eye rays as a free action, it can use a standard
fight. He falls back on his damage-dealing attacks if these action to focus its stunning gaze on an opponent and
tactics fail. attack with all eye rays that bear on its foes at the same
The ignans fight to the death, but Siolim attempts to flee time.
if reduced to 15 or fewer hit points.
If Siolim manages to flee, the Vanguard has a 50% chance
DEVELOPMENT of finding his new lair and claiming the scepter.
After defeating the ignans, or if they bypass those guardians Treasure: A successful DC 10 Disable Device or DC 15
completely, the PCs have a chance to locate Siolim’s lair. The Search check reveals that the forgotten king’s scepter can be
apparent sculpture is, in fact, the forgotten king’s scepter. reassembled. Doing so requires two DC 15 Craft (metalwork-
Stolen by an ancestor of Siolim’s, it was taken apart and ing) or Profession (jeweler) checks, or two DC 22 Disable
reshaped by the addition of brass fittings. The gold support Device checks. If any check fails by 5 or more, a piece of the
is the scepter’s handle, while the gems are its headpiece and scepter is bent or damaged in the attempt, and it can never
adornments. be restored. If the PCs do manage to reassemble the scepter,
If the PCs retreat from Siolim and do not return for a day they gain an advantage against the risen king (see encounter
or more, assume that a second team of Vanguard operatives S4-A, page 52). The scepter is worth 3,000 gp whole, or its base
succeed in defeating him and acquiring the scepter. The same components can be sold for 1,750 gp.
result happens if the PCs slay him but do not take or destroy In addition, a lesser metamagic rod (extend) and a ring of
the scepter. jumping lie hidden beneath a rock at the rear of the cave
(Search DC 22). 59

APPENDIX
60

APPENDIX
61

ENCOUNTER: THE BLASTED LAND
THE BLASTED LAND

Encounter Level 9 Iphariul and the writhing blackness do not coordinate
their actions, but they never attack one another.
SETUP
A Vanguard team arrived here four days ago seeking an DEVELOPMENT
object touched by Sertrous himself. Now only one yuan-ti The Vanguard team retrieved a small stone tablet from the
halfblood survives, though twisted by contact with the item, cave in which Sertrous sleeps; Iphariul carries it now. Spell-
and attempts to return to the portal with his prize. casters can recognize that it radiates overwhelming chaos and
evil, even without casting the appropriate spells.
Instead of taking you to a new location, the green glow that
wraps you suddenly flares. Every inch of your skin feels lanced Writhing Blackness CR 8
by white-hot needles even as your bones freeze from the inside hp 57 (7 HD); DR 10/magic
out. A scream builds in your chest, but you have no breath to Living Evard’s black tentacles, ghoul touch
loose it. Then with a start, you find yourself standing on N Large ooze
cracked and broken earth. The portal behind you crackles and Init +0; Senses blind, blindsight 60 ft.; Listen +0
Languages —
spits violently, its green light shot through with streaks of red.
As the PCs orient themselves, read: Immune ooze immunities (MM 313)
SR 17
Huge boulders tower around you, half buried in the desiccated Fort +8, Ref +6, Will +6
earth. However, as you move, you notice that no shadows
mark the ground in this barren landscape. Above you, the sky Speed 20 ft. (4 squares)
Melee slam +6 (1d6+2 plus ghoul touch)
glows a dull rust-red with no clouds or sign of the sun. A few Space 10 ft.; Reach 5 ft.
dead trees dot the landscape, while a dry stream bed strewn Base Atk +5; Grp +15
with rocks cuts through the ground ahead of you. Far beyond, Atk Options constrict 1d6+4, expert grappler, ghoul touch,
sporadic hills mark the foot of a jagged black peak. improved grab, magic strike
Special Actions engulf
A character with the Track feat can make a DC 18 Survival Abilities Str 14, Dex 11, Con 14, Int —, Wis 11, Cha 14
check to note that a humanoid creature passed through here SQ ooze traits
a few days ago, moving east. Feats —
The PCs can be placed anywhere in the southwestern quar- Skills —
ter of the map. If they travel north, they eventually encounter Expert Grappler (Ex) The writhing blackness can maintain a
the halfblood Iphariul (I), who is sneaking slowly along the grapple without penalty and still make attacks against
dry creek bed (Spot DC 30). other targets. It is never considered flat-footed while
grappling. It has a +4 racial bonus on grapple and engulf
When the PCs spot Iphariul, read: checks, and a +2 racial bonus on constriction damage.
A hideous form suddenly emerges from hiding in the dry Ghoul Touch (Su) A creature hit by the writhing blackness’s
stream bed. It must once have been a yuan-ti, but its eyes are slam attack must succeed on a DC 14 Fortitude save or
be paralyzed for 1d6+2 rounds. While paralyzed, the
now empty pools of blackness, its limbs abnormally long. subject exudes a carrion stench that causes all living
creatures in a 10-foot-radius to become sickened (DC
Another threat awaits the PCs here. The writhing blackness 14 Fortitude negates). A neutralize poison spell removes
(W), a horror born of the twisted landscape, lurks behind a the effect. Those immune to poison are unaffected by
massive boulder along the stream bed. It does not show itself the stench.
until the PCs draw within 40 feet of its hiding place. Improved Grab (Ex) To use this ability, the writhing
blackness must hit a Large or smaller creature with its
When the writhing blackness emerges, read: slam attack. It can then attempt to start a grapple as a
From behind a boulder, a roiling darkness rises, sprouting a free action without provoking attacks of opportunity. If it
writhing mass of tendrils that lash at you. wins the grapple, it establishes a hold and can constrict.
Engulf (Ex) The writhing blackness can flow around
creatures that fit within its space as a standard action.
TACTICS Creatures that succeed on a DC 19 Reflex save are
The writhing blackness attacks from higher ground when pushed back or aside (their choice). On a failed save, a
possible. It otherwise targets the closest PCs and fights until creature is engulfed. Engulfed creatures are subject to
destroyed. the writhing blackness’s constrict and ghoul touch
Iphariul’s main goal is to flee for the portal with his prize, abilities each round, and are considered grappled.
but if confronted by the PCs, he fights with wild abandon. Opponents can make attacks of opportunity
62 Each round, he has a 50% chance of attacking the closest foe against a writhing blackness attempting to engulf them,
but if they do so, they are not entitled to a saving throw.
or attempting to escape.

ENCOUNTER: THE BLASTED LAND
Iphariul CR 6 FEATURES OF THE AREA
MM 264, Complete Arcane 160 The area has the following features.
hp 38 (7 HD); DR 5/magic Boulder: Climb DC 10. A boulder provides cover.
Male pseudonatural yuan-ti halfblood Cracked Earth: The blasted ground here (including the
CE Medium outsider stream beds) is treated as light rubble. Light rubble adds 2
Init +5; Senses darkvision 60 ft., scent; Listen +16, to the DC of Balance and Tumble checks. Any creature at-
Spot +16
tempting to run or charge over light rubble must succeed on
a DC 10 Balance check.
Dead Tree: 5 feet thick; AC 3, hardness 5, hp 600, break
Resist acid 5, fire 5 SR 16
Fort +3, Ref +6, Will +9 DC 35; Climb DC 15. A tree takes up 1 square and provides
cover to anyone behind it.
Melee mwk scimitar +10/+5 (1d6+2/18–20) and
bite +4 (1d6+1 plus poison) SHIFTING TERRAIN
Ranged mwk composite longbow +9/+4 (1d8+2/×3) As the PCs explore, the supernatural effects of the area
Base Atk +7; Grp +9 begin to make themselves known.
Atk Options Blind-Fight, Combat Expertise; poison (DC • PCs walking at the same speed are suddenly separated by
14, 1d6 Con/1d6 Con), produce acid, true strike 5–30 feet (1d6 squares).
At will—detect poison (CL 6th) • The mountain on the horizon appears to move closer and
3/day—animal trance (DC 15), cause fear (DC 14), farther away, whether the PCs are walking toward it or not.
entangle (DC 14) • The surface texture mimics mud, stone, or scree, but with
1/day—deeper darkness, neutralize poison (DC 17), no corresponding visual change or effect on movement.
suggestion (DC 16) The odd shifts in perspective and elevation have a dramatic
Abilities Str 15, Dex 13, Con 13, Int 18, Wis 18, Cha 16 effect on combat. At the beginning of each creature’s turn,
SQ alternate form, alternate form, chameleon power roll 1d10 and consult the following table. The writhing
Feats AlertnessB, Blind-FightB, Combat Expertise, Dodge, blackness is immune to these effects.
Improved Initiative
Skills Concentration +11, Knowledge (religion) +14, d10 Result
Knowledge (the planes) +14, Hide +10*, Listen +16, 1–6 Subject is instantly shifted a number of squares
Spot +16 equal to the die roll1
*A halfblood using chameleon power gains a +10 7–9 No effect
circumstance bonus on Hide checks. 10 Abnormal event2
Possessions masterwork studded leather armor, 1 Random direction. If shifted into a solid object or an
masterwork heavy steel shield, masterwork scimitar, occupied square, place the creature in the nearest empty
masterwork composite longbow (+2 Str bonus) with 20 space. If a grappled creature moves, all creatures involved
arrows, Sertrous-touched stone (see text) in the grapple move with it. A creature grappled by the
Produce Acid (Sp) Iphariul can exude acid from his body, writhing blackness is immune to this effect.
dealing 3d6 points of acid damage to the next creature 2 The effect depends on terrain.
he touches, including a creature hit by his bite attack. If Cracked Earth: A pit opens up beneath the subject,
Iphariul is grappling or pinning a foe when he uses this dropping it 10 feet for 1d6 points of damage (Reflex DC 20
power, his grasp deals 5d6 points of acid damage. The avoids). A DC 10 Climb check is required to escape the pit.
acid becomes inert when it leaves Iphariul’s body, and Pits close after they are empty for 1 round.
he is immune to its effect. Dry Stream Bed: The subject is hit by a wave of force
True Strike Once per day, Iphariul can gain a +20 insight that deals 1d4 points of damage. In addition, its movement
bonus on a single attack roll, with no miss chance rate is reduced by 5 feet for 1 round (as though wading
against a target with concealment or total concealment. through water).
Alternate Form (Sp) Iphariul can assume the form of a Tiny Near a Tree: A subject within 5 feet of a dead tree must
to Large viper (MM 280) as a psionic ability. He uses make a grapple check against it (size Large, Strength 16, +9
his own poison for the viper’s bite attack. grapple modifier). If the tree wins, it grapples the subject
Alternate Form (Su) As a standard action, Iphariul can take for 1 round. If another roll of 10 for terrain effects results
the form of a grotesque, tentacled mass. This has no on the next turn, the subject makes another grapple check.
effect on his abilities, but other creatures take a –1 On a Boulder: The subject is thrown as the boulder
penalty on attack rolls against him. shudders, taking 1d6 points of damage (Reflex DC 25
Chameleon Power (Sp) Iphariul can psionically change his avoids).
coloration to match his surroundings, granting him a
+10 circumstance bonus on Hide checks. The PCs probably won’t continue traveling once the encounter
occurs. However, if they try to do so, the twisting of the en-
If Iphariul escapes, he delivers the Sertrous-touched stone to vironment becomes increasingly severe. Instead of a few feet,
the Vanguard. If the PCs slay him but leave the stone behind, PCs might end up hundreds of yards—or even miles—apart.
another Vanguard agent retrieves it. Only if the PCs take or They might begin to take increasing amounts of ability dam-
destroy the stone do they prevent its use in the ritual. It is no age, or suffer chaotic effects such as growing extra limbs that
harder than normal stone to destroy (hardness 8, 30 hp). vanish after a few rounds. PCs who insist on continuing beyond
Action Points: The Sertrous-touched stone is an anchor
point for the sacrament. Acquiring or destroying it earns the
the scope of this encounter eventually transform into hideous
pseudonatural creatures much like the one they find here.
63
PCs 2 action points.

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Fortress_Yuan_1_27.

indd 1 6/6/07 2:29:33 PM

WHAT YOU NEED TO PLAY ADVENTURE BACKGROUND

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Castle Serastis. There, he uncovered dark lore describing the

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Describe each individual structure (below) as the PCs draw

• “The castle is called Serastis—a horrible place

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A SECOND RESCUE If the PCs look inside, read:

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Although any observer can tell that the castle’s construction is

F8. THE BOX

When the PCs examine the box, read:

Lieth is fond of placing disobedient slaves within the box for

When the PCs approach the fortress, read:

Fortress_Yuan_1_27.indd 9 6/6/07 2:29:46 PM

d10 Keep the Way the Word Worship

high. patrol ignan golem

ALIGNED STRIKE AND MAGIC STRIKE RESCUING PRISONERS

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If Lieth was kept from reaching the fortress, read:

K2. THE MOUTH OF SERASTIS

When the PCs approach the doors, read:

Barred Iron Door: 2 inches thick; hardness 10, hp 60,

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If the PCs look within, read:

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K16. BARRACKS K19. THE HEART OF DARKNESS

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Not every door in Castle Serastis leads to another room

Fortress_Yuan_1_27.indd 17 6/6/07 2:30:00 PM

ing or marring it requires a DC 25 Disable Device check. If the

PCs can remove it safely, it is worth 1,000 gp.

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Fortress_Yuan_1_27.indd 19 6/6/07 2:30:04 PM

general description, each chamber contains additional items

prehend languages and read magic.

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P1. CHAMBER OF PURIFICATION P4. RELIQUARY

ceeding down to the main sanctuary for prayers.

The etching on the floor has no effect on combat if a random

The instant the PCs emerge

As the PCs move along the stairs, read:

P3. MAIN SANCTUARY

When the doors are opened, read:

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across the chamber. Two contain what

24 The Sacrament of the Risen Abyss has begun!

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to the forgotten king. (DC 25; An