KAL-ARATH

Copyright 2023 Castle Grief Permission granted to copy for personal use.
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Table of Contents

Rules 4
Skills 5
Combat 7
Magic 10
Spells 13
Equipment 17
Weapons and Armor 18
Gameplay 20
Oracle 21
Overland Travel 23
POINTS OF INTEREST 27
ENCOUNTERS 29
SETTLEMENTS/NPCS 32

Dungeons 37
Item/Treasure 42
Bestiary 47
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Greetings, wanderer of wild and treacherous lands,

seeker of glory and power untold!
You have set your foot upon the perilous path into a savage land — a realm
where ancient demons demand sacrifice and vie for power…and mortals strive
against one another with blood-magic and steel.

This massive steppe is known to its peoples as Kal-Arath, although the

barbarians of the north refer to the vast grassland as “The Kyrg.”

Arathi civilization centers around the stony plateau city of Kar’eld, heart of the
Khanate of Akkai, the demon lord of Kal-Arath.

Across these untamed vistas, the battle-barges of countless warlords sail a sea
of grass and stone, crews hungry for the favor of squabbling demon rulers both
demanding and cruel.

To survive in Kal-Arath is to dance with death, yet the rewards for the bold are
riches and renown beyond imagination.

Here are monks and mystics drunk on the rotting blood of human sacrifice,
practicing arts considered inhuman by those foreign to this place. Their bodies
are hardened by fighting arts taught them by their dark masters, and their minds
are fixed on nighted voids beyond mortal understanding.

In the sky, beneath the blinding sun, one can sometimes see the riders of the
fearsome flying lizards called teradun, doing battle with flashing lances or dark
magics. These riders are sometimes favored champions of spiteful demonic
nobility, or mercenary captains, or perhaps even the scouts or messengers of
some wealthy merchant king.

For Kal-Arath is not truly ruled by any — the city of Kar’eld may be the
seat of the power of Akkai, but his lordship is contested at every turn by
mortal and demon alike.

This is a land where even a lowly pit-fighter may earn the love of the crowd and
become king.

Where rich traders and clever merchants hold more power than gods…

and he who learns the secrets of decaying scrolls and forgotten codexes might
set himself up as opposition even to the demons who rule this land from their
blood-soaked temples.

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This is Kal-Arath.

Who will you be?

How will you die?

A QUICK NOTE:
Kal-Arath is the first installment in what will be a series of booklets, each one
made to play solo or with friends with no preparation, allowing your story to
emerge from the dice and your own imagination.

The rules included are what I use for my own solo play, which I enjoy a great
deal. I like just having to use d6’s because they’re easy and minimalist. The games
this ruleset was inspired by were Barbaric!, Mork Borg (which is the ruleset these
adventures started out using), and Black Sword Hack (which I’ve read several
times but not run a game of yet at the time of this writing).

You can use whatever rules you like with this game — as always, the rules
matter a lot less than the fun you have at the table, and there is no perfect
ruleset. Anything here you don’t like, or feel I’ve left out — just plug in
something else from your favorite ruleset. I included my own for a sense of
completeness, so that if someone wanted to, they could run the whole game
from this booklet alone.

I know you didn’t need my permission…but there it is!

The setting of Kal-Arath is meant to be one of swords and sorcery, epic

adventure, heroic risk, and kingly reward — but much of what lives, thrives, and
dies in this strange place is largely up to you and the tables.

In my mind, Kal-Arath is a heady mix, with its forbidden cities and prayer flags
flapping everywhere to the local demon lord. Monks practice martial arts and
bizarre meditations under the watchful eye of demon tutors and lamas, forging
their bodies and minds into killing machines.

Warlords stake out territory and engage in savage conflict with each other for
resources, horses, and the favor of dark powers - who grow and lessen in power
based entirely on how many are sacrificed and killed in their name. Great
war-machines called battle-barges, made of once plentiful but now extinct
forests, roll tirelessly under the command of mercenary captains, or have been
repurposed by powerful traders and merchants.

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“Dragons” here are pteranodons and the tall grasses of some areas are hunted
viciously by raptor lizards capable of disemboweling the strongest warriors with
ease and speed. The flying ones are sometimes tamed from an egg stolen on the
highest cliffs, and ridden by various servants or champions of extremely wealthy
or powerful factions.

The pit fights of Kar’eld are one of the highest forms of entertainment, and
fighters train and kill in smaller versions of the tournaments all over Kal-Arath,
hoping one day to make it there to slaughter the best in the world and earn a
name and staggering fortune.

From this, you get a feel for what this place feels like to me, and in my games
— for you…take what you like. Change the rest. Mix it up. Have fun. I hope
your adventures in Kal-Arath are exciting, entertaining, and that you avoid the
sacrificial rites of the Sons of Akkai.

You may notice there is little here that concerns itself with “balance” or worrying
about power levels and so on — due to the nature of the game, I’ve seen a group of
level one characters take out a teradun in one round, and had a total party kill from
a seemingly insignificant couple enemies rolling critical hits with exploding dice.

Luckily, character
generation is
quick, and there’s
a great big world
to keep exploring!

Keep your blades

sharp,

- Castle Grief

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RULES
Stats are determined by putting 4 points into the 5 stats:

Use for melee and other physical

Strength STR
might rolls
Use for starting HP, death chart rolls,
Toughness TOU
and feats of endurance and resistance
Use for missile attacks, dodging,
Agility AGI
initiative and general dexterity moves
Use for spells, perception, and other
Intelligence INT
“smart” stuff
Use for reaction checks, charisma, lying,
Presence PRE
intimidation, and other social checks

None may be higher than +2 at the start of gameplay.

Additionally, one stat may optionally be put at a -1 to gain an extra point to

spend elsewhere.

CHARACTER
IMPROVEMENT

Leveling Up is based on XP.

Each level requires that many
XP to attain it, and characters
are given 1XP per “meaningful”
session. Meaningful simply relates
to the idea that the session was
a generative one, and enjoyable,
during which time the character
faced challenges, explored, or
otherwise interacted with the
gameworld - this is to keep
players from the temptation of
playing brief, unfulfilling “sessions”
specifically to “level up.” Resist this
and attain glory through deed!

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Bonus XP can be awarded for:

Significant event — completing a quest, surviving an especially difficult/

threatening combat, exploring a new area or surviving a dungeon, attaining a
major story landmark, and so on - no more than 2 bonus XP should be given
per session, with the exception of major story accomplishments like finishing
a multi-session quest or some other big achievement that relates to the
character’s emerged story.

Leveling up provides the following benefits:

Players must select *only one* of these two advancements:

Rolling higher grants d6 HP. Rolling

Roll 6d6 vs. current HP
equal or lower grants 1 HP.
Put 1 point into any stat To a maximum of +5

Additionally:

At 1st level, players choose one of the following skills automatically.

At 3rd, 5th and 9th level (max level attainable), they may select from the skill list
again, while forfeiting their other chosen advancements.

These skills stack if taken more than once. Skills marked with an * may only be
taken once.

SKILLS
WARRIOR
*You may make an additional attack per round at a disadvantage.
(Roll 3d6, take 2 lowest)
Roll attack and damage with a specific weapon type at a +1
(longsword, bow, spear, etc.)
Gain an additional point of damage reduction from wearing armor
Gain 1 point of damage reduction, but only when unarmored
*Add d6 rage/bloodlust damage until rage ends in d6 rounds. After rage
ends, roll d6. On 1-3 you make all rolls at disadvantage until long rest.
After a long rest you may rage again.

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ROGUE
*You are at an advantage (roll 3d6 and take the best two) when hiding or sneaking.
*Advantage when thieving (locks, pockets, etc)
*You roll vs. triggering traps at an advantage (See Dungeon section)
Add a +1 to your initiative roll
When you strike from being hidden, you may add a d6 to your damage

MYSTIC
Gain +1 to INT checks when casting spells
Gain a +2 to casting a specific spell
Make a demonic pact (see chart)
*Roll INT at advantage when crafting with Herbs or Chemicals
Gain additional Fate Point

EXPLORER
*Roll Forage at advantage
*May choose to roll overland Encounter Check at advantage or disadvantage.
*Discover POI on 4-6
*Advantage on Getting Lost rolls
*Makes INT rolls for tracking/outdoor lore at advantage

All characters also receive one Fate Point, which can be used once per session by a
player to re-roll any one of their own dice rolls.

HP are determined at character generation by rolling a d6 and adding TOU.

This is the only time TOU is added to a HP roll.

OPTIONAL: take max HP at character generation for higher survival rate

All Resolution is 2d6+Stat. 8+ is a “standard” success. When doing very difficult

things, roll at disadvantage. Very easy things shouldn’t require a roll, unless under
pressure, in which case you can roll at advantage.

Two 6’s is always a critical success, and two 1’s is always a critical failure.

To summarize and give you an idea of your chances:

This means a PC with 0 in a stat has only a 41% chance of standard success, a +1 will
succeed nearly 60% of the time, while a PC with +2 in a stat has a 72% chance of
success. +3 stats grant 83% chance of success, and the maximum, +5, is a master with a
97% chance of success, only failing on a natural 2.

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Reaching +5 in a stat is a major accomplishment for anyone, and stats of +5 can

be considered an individual with legendary prowess in that area.

Conceivably, a player could forgo all HP increases and skills to max an ability by
level 4, however, they would certainly be at a severe disadvantage still in other areas.

In this world, everything comes at the cost of something else.

COMBAT
Players start a combat by rolling d6+AGI for Initiative. On a 4+ they go first,
otherwise enemies do. Natural 1 always loses initiative. In cases of group combat, you
can do one initiative roll per side, allowing an entire group to act, then allowing their
opponents to act, or you can choose to allow one side to activate one unit at a time -
the choice is completely up to you. I prefer side initiative for fast and streamlined play,
and to encourage character co-operation and team-ups, but your mileage may vary.

In a round, you can move and attack, drink something, throw something, etc…
anything you can reasonably do in a few seconds. Further combat and weapon
options may be added to future supplements, or, use your own from systems you
like. If playing solo, I keep things honest by allowing a short move and attack,
standing from prone, etc. all counting as my action.

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In group play, if I’m GMing, I encourage players to be creative and do cool

things, and reward them for it by not hemming them in too much with the
rules. This is a game of epic sword and sorcery, not strict tactical wargaming, so I
allow some leeway within reason for a good story and fun session.

Attacking and Defending is done in a “player facing” method with 2d6+STR vs

8 to succeed with a melee or brawling/grappling attack. Use AGI for missile
attacks, and INT for magical attacks/spellcasting.

Success means rolling weapon damage, subtracting any modifiers for armor or
other equipment, and dealing that much damage to the opponent’s HP. Critical
success doubles damage dice. Critical failure means some setback has occurred
— a broken bowstring, a lost weapon, a fall to prone etc.

Brawling attacks deal d6/d (roll 2 take the worst) damage.

Grappling means the opponent cannot attack with anything other than Light
weapons or brawling attacks. If grappled or grappling, the player must roll STR
check to break free or maintain the hold each round.

On the opponent’s turn, the player rolls 2d6+AGI to dodge. Failure means he
takes damage in the same way. Critical failure means the enemy doubles their
damage dice. Critical success with some weapons can result in a bonus action.

See Weapons section.

If 2 players are fighting each other, use opposed Dodge/Attack rolls.

OPTIONAL: Modify rolls by one for every level difference between opponents. Ex:
A L4 and L2 character fight. The L4 adds +2 to their attack and Dodge rolls to show
their skill and experience discrepancy. This can be used for powerful non-monster
opponents in the normal game, as well. Ex: L3 character is fighting an L5 enemy
fighter — the player subtracts 2 from their attack and dodge rolls.

Damage dice explode. This means 6’s are rerolled *only once*, and the additional
number added to the total. If a second 6 is rolled, it is counted “as is.”

This makes critical hits especially dangerous, as a total of 24 damage is possible

with a single d6, however unlikely. Two handed weapons which deal damage at
an advantage already are positively deadly when rolling critical hits.

Always beware of an enemy with a greataxe, maul, or two-handed sword!

Reaching 0 HP prompts a roll on the Death and Wounding Table.

Rolls are made at a cumulative -2 for each time an individual at 0 HP takes damage.

Anything below an adjusted roll of 7-8 indicates the character is “out of the
action,” and can no longer fight in this engagement. They will still recover HP at
the end of battle as normal, but further status adjustments might make another
combat before they can rest ill-advised.

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DEATH AND WOUNDING

2 Instant Death
3 Fatal Wound. Die in d6 rounds.
Severed or destroyed limb. Die in 2d6 rounds without immediate
4 healing. -2 to Agility Permanently. D6 weeks to heal past 50% HP
unless magically healed.
Shattered. Roll d6: 1 - Face -1 PRE 2 - Leg -1 AGI 3 - Arm -1 STR
5 4–5 - Core -1 TOU, 6 - Head -1 INT d6 days to heal past ½ HP unless
magically healed.
Broken, Slashed, or Pierced. -1 HP permanently. D6 days to heal unless
6
magically healed.
7–8 Unconscious 2d6 rounds. If wearing a helm, stunned 1 round.
9 Stunned 1 round. With helm, knocked down.
Knocked down. Standing takes a round’s action. Attack and dodge at
10
disadvantage while prone.
11 Reeling but still in it.
Adrenaline surge, bloodlust, hand of god, whatever. Immediately gain d6
12
HP. At end of combat, black out for d6 rounds.

All injuries stack.

If permanent HP loss would reduce character

below 1 HP, character is considered dead.

Healing occurs at the end of battle — characters

immediately gain back 1+ TOU (min 1) at a
battle’s end.

In this game, HP represents not just physical

damage, but a combo of stress, injury, blood loss
and damage, as well as decreasing luck as the
survival rate plummets toward zero.

Characters also recover d6+TOU with a full rest. Night time encounters and other
interruptions cancel out this healing process, as does a lack of rations/supplies.

MORALE

Any time an enemy is:

• Reduced in total number by 50%
• Takes damage equal to 50% or greater of its HP in one hit
• Loses their leader

Roll 2d6 - higher than their morale flees or surrenders; equal or lower,
continues fighting.

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MAGIC
Magic is handled by rolling INT check vs. Spell Difficulty. Success indicates
normal casting and results. Critical success doubles the effect of the spell.

Players who wish to run magic-using characters must choose “Make a Demonic
Pact” either at creation or later in your character’s career through gameplay.

Almost all magic in Kal-Arath is the result of Pacts with demons lesser and greater,
who represent certain ideals or archetypes reflected in the powers they grant their
supplicants — and these powers must be paid in return for their knowledge.

DEMONIC PACTS (CHOOSE OR ROLL D6)

1 Blood
2 Destruction
3 Corruption
4 Illumination
5 Shadow
6 Domination

There are currently 5 spells in each pact — more spells and pacts will be added in
supplements.

A cursory glance will show the awesome and awful power of sorcery in
Kal-Arath. Spells like “Liberation From All Earthly Choice,” and “Void of
the Black Lotus” have major game-changing effects. Go with it, and have
fun. The drawbacks and penalties of sorcery are also extreme, and it is
incredibly dangerous and corruptive to work with. Over a long enough time
frame, all sorcerers will be brought low by their own power and hubris.
This is a feature, not a bug!

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To maintain a pact requires the deliberate taking on of various taboos and

observances, known as Dooms. Each one of these will affect the character in a
major way, and limit some of their roleplaying choices. These should be leaned
into and played out, as, especially in the solo format of the game, they can be the
focal point of whole story arcs.

The caster must not use metal weapons or armor. Violation breaks their
1
pact and they lose all spells and powers.
Each new moon, the caster must sacrifice something of great value
2 (monetarily or otherwise, up to and including human sacrifices). Failure to
do so may result in a curse or the loss of powers.

The caster must speak the names and prayers of his demon master out loud
3 when casting. He is unable to cast spells if he is silenced through mundane or
magical means, and his casting is loud, attracting attention of any in earshot.

At the behest of his demon, the caster must travel to a desolate place of
4 powerful significance to his master and spend d6 days and nights there in
prayer and meditation.
The caster must create all their spells on scrolls written in blood that cost
1 HP permanently to keep that spell “active” and ready to cast. Destroying
5
a scroll gives the lost HP back, but then he cannot use that particular spell
until he makes another scroll (1 full night of work).
The caster may not speak for an amount of hours equal to the level of spell
6 they have cast last. Breaking the silence before time is up could mean the
loss of that spell’s use, or some other wrath from their patron.

Each of the five spells listed in each Pact are available to the caster immediately
depending on his INT — but casting them requires a base 8 difficulty, which
increases by one for each tier of the spell.

A caster may only attempt a spell of a Tier as high as his current

unaltered INT score.

A Tier 5 spell, therefore, such as “Enlightenment Through Ruin,” is a difficulty of

12 to cast, and requires an INT of +5 to attempt. Natural 12’s always indicate
success, and the spell’s effect is considered “doubled” or “extreme.”

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Casting Failure results in 1 damage to the caster, and the inability to cast spells
again until a rest.

Critical Failure results in Arcane Disaster:

A lesser demon takes hold of the caster’s body, seeking to use it for
2 its own dark purposes. The caster’s soul is trapped and tormented,
becoming totally enslaved to the demon. Your adventure is at an end!

The caster’s blood vessels burst, causing severe internal bleeding.

3 Reduced to 0 HP and -2 TOU permanently unless healed by
powerful magic. (Roll on Death Table)

The complex sigils and mantras overwhelm the caster’s mind,

4 causing permanent psychic damage. -2 INT and suffer from vivid,
traumatic hallucinations.

A part of the caster’s soul is torn away, leaving them hollow. -1 INT
5 and PRE stats and they suffer from horror, despair, and overwhelming
feelings of emptiness.

The caster becomes cursed by a demon, causing them to suffer

6 misfortune and accidents. Lose ability to use Fate Point until a way
can be found to end the curse.

The caster’s body changes in a disturbing way, granting them a

7 monstrous or unsettling appearance. -1 PRESENCE, but +1 PRE
to intimidation.

The spell’s sigils burn into the caster’s flesh, leaving permanent,
8 painful scars. -1 PRESENCE and they suffer from chronic pain,
making STR checks at a disadvantage.

The magic lashes back at the caster, causing burns and injuries.
9
-1 permanent HP.

The caster is left with a psychic echo of the failed spell, causing
10
headaches and nightmares. -1 INTELLIGENCE for d6 sessions.

The spell drains the caster’s vitality, leaving them weakened.

11
-1 STRENGTH from fatigue for the remainder of the session.

The spell fails, but the caster only suffers minor effects from a small
12
psychic backlash.

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SPELLS
PACT OF BLOOD

I. C
 rimson Palm Scripture — Drains d6 HP from anyone touched (does not require
attack roll), caster gains equal amount — HP over caster’s maximum are kept
until next rest or depleted as normal to a maximum of double normal HP.

II. Eternal River of Blessed Strength — Sacrifice 4 HP to increase STR and

AGI by +2 for 1 hour.

III. Mantra of Thirst - Exchange 6 HP to roll next casting check at an advantage.

IV. A scendance of the Scarlet Flower — Summon a powerful blood demon. It

will do your bidding for d6 rounds.

STATS: HP: 5d6 Armor: 2 Damage: Claws 2d6 Morale: 10

V. Mandala of Calm Serenity — Sacrifice 2 HP to deal d6 damage automatically

to multiple targets in missile range — this can be stacked (e.g., 8 HP for 4d6
split among multiple targets)

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PACT OF DESTRUCTION

I. Vision of Transience — Shatter/disintegrate one non-magical item within

missile range no larger than a jug of wine or length of rope or cause d6 damage
to one individual within missile range.

II. Way of the Sundering Fist — All your unarmed blows roll damage at advantage.

III. Temple’s Demolishing Breath — Force wave of damage around the caster, d6
damage to all in melee range, knocking them back 10’.

IV. Cleansing By Fire — Produces an exploding ball of flame that can be sent up
to 50’ from the caster. Causes 3d6 damage to all within a 20’ radius.

V. E
 nlightenment Through Ruin — Caster produces meteor-like storms for d6
rounds plus one per level, capable of destroying a small village or a whole
battalion. Everyone within a 100x100’ square area takes 2D6 damage per round.

PACT OF DOMINATION

I. Diamond Mind Shatters — The caster causes uncontrollable confusion and fear
in d6 targets for d6 rounds.

II. Doctrine of the Subservient Path — Target individual obeys the caster within
reasonable boundaries of friendship for 1 day.

III. Life Is Only A Mirage — Caster can create a believable illusion up to the size
of a large temple. To maintain it, he must maintain total concentration and
can take no other action beyond a slow walk over open ground.

IV. Heavenly Edict of Obedience — Complete mental domination and control over
an individual. Spell must be recast each day at an advantage to maintain.

V.Liberation From All Earthly Choice — Vast radius of command. The caster is able
to gain temporary control of d6x10 individuals for d6 rounds plus caster’s level.

PACT OF ILLUMINATION

I. Flame of Insight — Success means the caster can force a re-roll of any one roll
each time he casts this spell.

II. Lantern of the Revealing Path — Shows the location of any object known
to the caster.

III. E cstatic Meditation on Death — For one day, gain advantage on all
attack and dodge rolls.

IV. All-Encompassing Gaze — Gain d6 Fate Points this session.

V. Golden Final Enlightenment — Any roll made in the game is subject to one
re-roll at the casters choice. Effect lasts the entire session.

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PACT OF SHADOW

I. Sworn to the Dark — Invisibility except in full daylight for 1 hour/level of

caster. Attacking negates this effect.

II. Veil of the Hidden Monastery — Creates a mobile globe of shadow and
darkness around the caster for 20’. He can see out, none can see in. Lasts
d6 rounds plus 1 per level.

III. Silent Passage Through The Realm of the Master — May teleport from one
shadow to another that the caster can see, no matter how far.

IV. Blessed Guardian of Night’s Temple — Summon a lesser demon of the shadow
realm to do your bidding for d6 rounds plus one per level.

STATS: HP: 24 Armor 2 Damage: 2d6 Morale: 10

V. Void of the Black Lotus — Caster kills one individual with a mantra. Roll d6.
On a 6, gain a level.

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PACT OF CORRUPTION

I. Decay is the Way of All Things — Animate one recently deceased body to serve
you for d6 hours, with whatever gear/equipment it had in life. Only one
undead servant may be animated at a time. After d6 hours, it returns to death.

STATS: as Skeleton Warrior (Bestiary)

II. Clouds Descend To The Earth — A thick fog 30’ around the caster causes d6
damage per round to all inside it except the caster for d6 rounds.

III. Withering Mandala — Necrotic rot for d6 damage on d6 targets. If they die
from this attack, they animate as ghouls under the caster’s control. They last
d6 days or until destroyed by other means.

IV. Soldiers Of the 10,000 Strong Army — Summon 3d6 ghouls in a thick fog that
follows them. Caster must maintain total concentration or lose control of them.

V. Forbidden Temple of the 7th Sigil — Causes a major plague outbreak in any
populated area. The plague lasts d6 days. Each day, anyone entering the affected
area or interacting with those infected has a 1–4 in 6 chance of contracting. Caster
is daily joined by 2d6 plague victims now under his control as Plague Ghouls.

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EQUIPMENT
PCs can carry STR+8 items. More
than that and all physical rolls are
made at disadvantage. At twice the
number, they cannot move.

For starting gear, roll d6x10s

• Choose one weapon
• Roll d6 for total rations

That’s it — now survive!

(All prices are in silver; most commerce in Kal-Arath is done by trading items or
services of comparable value. Take the following as guidelines and use your excellent
judgment for the rest!)

D6S
Meal (Day of rations)
Lodging (Poor)
Rough Clothes
Rope
Simple tool

D6X10S
Light armor
Simple Weapons
Poor to Average Horse
Lodging (Fine)
Healing Herbs
Bundle of Torches/Lamp and Oil (5)
Tent

D6X100
Medium Armor
Large, Fine, Metal Weapons
Good Horse
Wagon

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WEAPONS AND ARMOR

Two weapons can be used simultaneously, roll both weapon damage, take the
best. Heavy Weapons cannot be used except two handed, and dual-wielding can
only be done with a Medium and Light or two Light weapons.

All weapons in a size category deal the same damage, but their abilities vary, allowing
for more customization and strategy than a simple “attack and dodge” combat round.

Masterwork weapons give a +1 to attack or damage.

Magical weapons often come with one or more powerful abilities and are
extremely rare: roll attack or damage with advantage, damage explodes on a 5 or
6, or some other granted ability. Be creative, or anything but boring!

LIGHT WEAPONS (DAMAGE: D6/D ROLL 2D6 TAKE WORST)

Can be thrown (AGI), Damage is d6/a (roll 2d6 take best)
Dagger/Knife
when grappling or enemy prone
Can be thrown. On critical, can forgo extra damage die to
Hatchet
automatically grapple opponent.
Staff/Stick On critical, forgo extra damage to knock enemy prone

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MEDIUM WEAPONS (DAMAGE: D6)

Sword On critical Dodge success, immediately make counterattack
Battle Axe On critical, forgo extra damage to tear enemies weapon away
Flail Ignores shields
Can interrupt anyone moving into attack range and attack,
Spear
regardless of initiative roll
Mace On critical, forgo extra damage to stun one round

HEAVY WEAPONS (DAMAGE: D6/A ROLL 2D6 TAKE BEST)

(ALL HEAVY ARE 2-HANDED)
Greataxe On critical, enemy immediately knocked prone
Two Handed
On killing blow, immediately attack again
Sword
On critical, forgo extra damage to stun opponent d6 rounds
Maul
and knock prone

MISSILE WEAPONS
Sling (d6/d) On 6 damage, instead of exploding, enemy stunned 1 rd
Javelin (d6) On a hit, may forgo damage to destroy enemy shield
Shortbow (d6) May move, attack, and move again
(d6) May spend up to three rounds aiming for +1 attack and
Longbow
damage each round spent

ARMOR

Armor breaks down into Light, Medium and Heavy categories.

Heavy armor should be nearly as rare as magical items — reserved for the most
powerful champions and warlords.

Reduces damage by 1 and is often piecemeal leather, studs,

Light armor
spikes, bronze plates, and so on
Reduces damage by 2 and is often lamellar, metal ring on
Medium armor
leather, full suits, and so on
Reduces damage by 3 and is almost always customized for
Heavy armor the individual, comprised of foreign parts like chain and
plate or scale
Reduce damage by 1 and can be sacrificed to reduce all
Shields
damage from a single attack to 0

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 KAL-ARATH

GAMEPLAY
WHAT FATE BROUGHT YOU HERE?

The following table can be rolled on or chosen from to determine your starting
adventure/main story quest.

You may add other quests and adventures as you play, but this starting table can
help you determine your character’s motivation when you begin play.

Slavers came to your village and burned it down, taking some of your people
2
with them. Find them, rescue your people, and exact a terrible vengeance.
You seek the legendary ruin of T’elku Lhar, said to be somewhere
out in the vast steppes of Kal-Arath. Every time you roll a dungeon
3
encounter, roll a 2d6. On 11–12, you’ve discovered T’elku Lhar. Add a
+1 to your roll for every other dungeon you’ve explored or discovered.

You are here to make a pact of allegiance with the mighty Demon Lord
4 Akkai in Q’arzh — But to do so requires overcoming 3 challenges that
kill nearly every applicant…or worse.

You track a member of the Ash’Hassim rumored to be traveling

5
through Kal-Arath who killed a member of your family.
Your desire is to find a battle-barge carcass and restore it to glory,
6 making a name for yourself as a warlord and conqueror of settlements
across Kal-Arath!
A lone mystic holds the key to ridding your clan of a terrible curse
7
from a lesser demon lord.
You are a hunter, stalking a legendary beast as your prey. Somewhere
8
out in the grasslands, the glory of the kill awaits you.

Legend has it an ancient text known as the Nagha Scrolls are lost to time
9 somewhere in a hidden monastery far from civilization — these scrolls are
filled with arcane knowledge that many would do anything to obtain!
You desire more than anything to become a champion within the
Black Legion, the dread force that serves Akkai and enforces his awful
10
will across the steppes of Kal-Arath. You’ll have to prove yourself by
winning the Grand Tournament at the fighting pits.
Establish a thriving trading or smuggling ring by setting up routes and
11 caravans across and through the Heart of the World…but bandits,
reavers, thieves, beasts, and even giants stand in the way.
Somewhere in Kal-Arath lies the means to make the 10,000 coins you
need to buy the services of the mercenary legion that will march with
12
you back to your homeland and retake the kingdom that is rightfully
yours from the bastard usurper who holds it now!

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 KAL-ARATH

ORACLE
“For yes/no questions, simply roll a d6.
1. No, and
2. No
3. No, but
4. Yes, but
5. Yes
6. Yes, and

For a “likely” question, roll 2d6 and take the highest. For “unlikely,” roll 2d6 and
take the worst. For “extremely likely/unlikely” use 3d6.

For insight questions, roll 1-3 times on the following tables and ascertain a
meaning from the words generated.

FOR STORY QUESTIONS, TURNING POINTS, OR SITUATIONS:

11. Alliance 41. Despair
12. Betrayal 42. Hope
13. Revelation 43. Separation
14. Competition 44. Union
15. Victory 45. Mystery
16. Tragedy 46. Corruption
21. Deception 51. Assault
22. Courage 52. Defense
23. Sacrifice 53. Retreat
24. Temptation 54. Negotiation
25. Discovery 55. Capture
26. Obstacle 56. Release
31. Triumph 61. Renewal
32. Loss 62. Decline
33. Escape 63. Intrigue
34. Pursuit 64. Corruption
35. Transformation 65. Enlightenment
36. Conflict 66. Collapse

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 KAL-ARATH

TO GAIN INSIGHT INTO PEOPLE, PLACES AND THINGS:

11. Ancient 41. Gleaming
12. Strange 42. Ruined
13. Dark 43. Majestic
14. Shining 44. Desolate
15. Helpful 45. Enchanted
16. Angry 46. Savage
21. Abandoned 51. Fertile
22. Crowded 52. Barren
23. Distant 53. Sacred
24. Hidden 54. Profane
25. Luminous 55. Opulent
26. Menacing 56. Stark
31. Vibrant 61. Flourishing
32. Decaying 62. Crumbling
33. Silent 63. Peaceful
34. Bustling 64. War-torn
35. Forbidden 65. Hospitable
36. Tranquil 66. Foreboding

This book provides tables for adventuring in the land of Kal-Arath, the massive
steppe at the center of all the other realms.

This region is called “Heart of the World,” “The Sea of Grass and Stone,” and many
other names besides.

The setting is largely implied in the tables, and left for you to discover and
determine the rest as you see fit — this adventure belongs to you!

Other lands, realms, and additional tables for gameplay will be created in
the near future.

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 KAL-ARATH

OVERLAND TRAVEL
It is recommended you use a blank hex map
to record your journeys in Kal-Arath. “Hex”
is just a term — you can use squares, circles,
dodecahedrons…whatever you like, as long as
you understand that each one of these shapes
represents roughly the same area of land.

Hexes represent one day’s travel by foot

(about 20 miles, give or take). A horse can
double this.

Roll for weather, POI, encounters, etc. based

on day’s travel not by hex. In other words,
multiple days spent traveling slowly through a
hex are more likely to net POI or encounters
than cruising smoothly through them.

When it rains, it pours, and traveling

unprepared overland can be very dangerous.

I. ROLL FOR WEATHER

Weather is determined by season, using the following tables, with low rolls being
milder weather, and high rolls representing more extreme variants for that time
of year. These can have an impact on travel times, foraging rolls and potentially
other aspects of play.

SPRING WEATHER
+1 Getting Lost
1. Clear Skies: The sun shines warmly, perfect for travel. +1 Foraging
2. Partly Cloudy: A gentle breeze carries the scent of grass
+1 Getting Lost
and blooming wildflowers.
3. Light Rain: Showers help the flowers bloom, but make
the ground muddy.
4. Unexpected Chill: A sudden drop in temperature brings
-1 to Foraging
unseasonal harsh frost.
5. Heavy Rain: Spring showers turn into a downpour. -2 to Foraging
Roads may flood.1/2 travel speed -1 to Getting Lost

6. Storm: Thunder rolls as a major storm breaks. High

Foraging impossible
winds and heavy rain. No travel today, begin the next day -2 to Get Lost.
in the same hex.

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 KAL-ARATH

SUMMER WEATHER
+1 Getting Lost
1. Clear Skies: The sun blazes in the sky. +1 Foraging
2. P
 artly Cloudy: Occasional clouds offer respite from the heat. +1 Getting Lost

3. Light Rain: A welcome relief from the summer heat.

4. Thunderstorm: A sudden storm brings heavy rain and -1 to Foraging
lightning. -1 to Getting Lost
1/2 travel speed
-2 foraging
5. Heatwave: Intense heat makes travel arduous. Expend extra ration
at day’s end
No travel today
6. Wind Storm/Tornado: A wall of whirling wind and
Foraging impossible
debris lasting most of the day. -2 to Get Lost

AUTUMN WEATHER
+1 Getting Lost
1. Clear Skies: A crisp, clear day perfect for travel. +1 Foraging
2. Partly Cloudy: Cooler temperatures and a light breeze. +1 Getting Lost

3. Light Rain: Cold rain begins to fall.

½ Travel Speed
4. Heavy Rain: Autumn rains turn low areas to mud. -2 to foraging
-1 Get Lost
1/2 travel speed
5. Storm: A strong autumn storm. Foraging Impossible
-1 Get Lost
Expend extra ration
6. First Snow: An early snowfall and major cold snap. at day’s end

WINTER WEATHER
1. Light Snow: Gentle snow falls, covering the ground +1 Foraging

2. Clear Skies: A rare clear day, but bitterly cold -1 Foraging

3. Heavy Snow: A snowstorm hits 1/2 travel speed

Foraging -2
-2 Getting Lost
-2 to Foraging due
4. Freezing Fog: Thick fog rolls in. No effect on travel speed to reduced visibility
-2 Getting Lost
-1/2 to travel speed
5. Ice Storm: Freezing rain and hail. Foraging impossible
-2 Get Lost
No travel
6. Blizzard: An intense blizzard Foraging impossible
-3 Get Lost.

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 KAL-ARATH

II. GETTING LOST

Roll after the weather, prior to foraging to see whether or not you are lost. 1–2
on a D6 means you are lost and do not leave the current hex for this day, and
must make full travel through it tomorrow ­— characters can still forage with
regular weather adjustments to success.

Characters traveling a roadway or following a river or another specific landmark

cannot “get lost,” and continue to travel in the direction they are going.

Once lost, rolls to Get Lost are made at a disadvantage unless a skill mitigates
this, and results of 1–2 imply the character is still lost and makes no progress.

Lost characters or parties still roll for POI and Encounters.

III. FORAGE

If the party chooses or needs to forage for food and water, or other resources,
make a roll to determine the success of their efforts.

Weather can affect this.

Foraging reduces the day’s movement to 50% of whatever it would be normally

(after considering weather).

FORAGING RESULTS
1. Scarcity: The land is barren today, you find nothing edible.
2. Hard Luck: Your search yields very little.
3. Adequate Forage: You find enough for a basic meal. Gain 1 ration

4. Good Harvest: A successful forage. Gain 3 rations

5. Bountiful Forage: The land is generous today and you

Gain 5 rations.
find a variety of food.
Gain 5 rations
6. Rare Bounty: In addition to ample food, you discover a Find d6 doses of
rare or beneficial herb. an herb from the
following table.

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 KAL-ARATH

HERBS
Crushed and applied to wounds, this herb Restores d6 HP.
1. Zhar’um
accelerates the body’s natural healing process. (20s)

When brewed into a tea, this root sharpens the +1 to AGI for 1
2. Gruul
senses and reflexes. day. (15s)

These berries provide a burst of energy when

3. Tarnak
ground and drunk, and remove the need to (5s)
Berry
consume a ration that day.
A rare plant valued for its dark staining juices
4. Valkash (20s)
which are used as dye and ink.
provides a +2 bonus
5. Mor
This flower’s petals can be crushed and inhaled. to INT checks for 1
Blossom hour. (50s)
This delicate mushroom releases spores that,
6. Thun when inhaled, are believed to allow the user Regain a spent
Spore to commune with the ancient spirits of Kal- Fate Point. (80s)
Arath.

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 KAL-ARATH

IV. ROLL FOR POI

Roll to see if the party comes across a point of interest. 1–4 nothing. 5–6, roll:

Points of Interest in Kal-Arath (d66)

d66 Points of Interest in Kal-Arath
11 Teradun Nest w/Eggs On A Cliff
12 Sunken Cistern
13 Stone Circle
14 Nomad Bazaar
15 Stone Watchtower Foundation
16 Dungeon/Ruin (What is this place? Go to Dungeon Tables)
21 Hidden Shrine
22 Bridge Across Deep Span
23 Wide Expanse of 7’ Grasses
24 Watering Hole
25 Deserted Campsite w/ Random Equipment

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 KAL-ARATH

26 Settlement (What manner of settlement? Go to Settlement Tables)

31 Stone Roadway Through Canyon
32 Crops Growing In Valley Between Cliffs
33 Sacrifice Site, Weathered Bodies On Posts
34 Remnants of Massive Broken Wheel From Battle Barge (200s)
35 Cliffside Monastery
36 Dungeon/Ruin
41 High Rock Formation
42 Ancestral Grave Mounds
43 Lone Yurt, Ceiling Open To The Sky, Filled With Skeletons
44 Massive Stone Demon Head w/ Inscriptions
45 Ancient Volcanic Caldera
46 Settlement
51 Giant’s Skull/Bones
52 Stony Field of Obsidian Pieces
53 Sunbaked Altar
54 Hot Springs
55 Recently Abandoned Battle Barge (complete)
56 Dungeon/Ruin
61 20’ Tall Statue of Headless Humanoid
62 3 Petrified Eukarya (see bestiary)
63 Salt Flats and Cliffs
64 Field of Demon Sigil Prayer Flags
65 Outpost Settlement Filled With Only Corpses
66 Settlement

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 KAL-ARATH
V. ROLL FOR ENCOUNTER

Determine if the party has an encounter during their travels. On a 5–6, use the
encounter chart below. All Encounters then use a Reaction Check to determine
disposition, although this can be done using advantage/disadvantage depending
on circumstances or what type of creature is encountered:

Reaction Check (2d6+PRE)

2–3 KILL
4–6 Angered/Hostile
7–8 Neutral
9–10 Friendly
11–12 Actively Helpful

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 KAL-ARATH

Encounters: Kal-Arath Grasslands

11 D6 Nomad Scouts
12 3D6 Monastic Pilgrims
13 2D6 Kuyu (see Bestiary)
14 Merchant Caravan w/4D6 people
15 Lost Child
16 2D6 Demon Cultists
21 Battle Aftermath w/ D6 survivors
22 Hunting Party of D6 nomads
23 2D6 Roving Bandits
24 Sacred Procession of 6D6 monks and worshippers
25 Pair of Raptor Lizards
26 D6 Bison Herders and herd
31 Solitary Hermit
32 2D6 Steppe Jackals (2-6 chance they are led by d6 Kuyu on a raid)
33 D6 Grave Robbers
34 D6 Slave Traders w/d6 guards and 3D6 slaves
35 d6 Roaming Storytellers
36 2D6 Bloodthirsty Reavers
41 Disgraced Warlord
42 Giant Snake
43 d6 Treasure Seekers
44 d6 Yak People (Khainar)
45 Artifact Dealer w/3D6 guards
46 d6 Drunken Brawlers
51 Lone Sorcerer
52 2D6 Desperate Thieves
53 4D6 Mercenaries
54 5D6 Starving Refugees/Escaped Slaves
55 Dangerous Beast
56 d6 Trophy Hunters
61 d6 Traveling Pit Fighters
62 Solitary Ash’hasim
63 Nomadic Family of 2D6 people
64 Champion Pit Fighter and entourage of 2D6 admirers
65 Cursed Traveler
66 d6 Eukarya

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 KAL-ARATH

VI. CAMP, SPEND RESOURCES, RECOVER

At the end of the day’s travel, the party makes camp. They will need to expend a
ration and can attempt to heal any wounds or conditions. Check for night-time
encounter (1–2 on d6)

2 Giant
3 Eukarya
4 Giant Owl
5 Poor Travelers
6 Black Legion
7 Nomads
8 Sons of Akkai
9 Wolves
10 Skeleton Warriors
11 Dark Sorcerer/Mystic
12 Demon Emissary

VII. END OF DAY/

SESSION

Summarize the day’s

events in your journal,
update the party’s
status, roll for any
meaning or turning
points if necessary,
prepare for the next
day of travel, or end
your session.

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 KAL-ARATH

SETTLEMENTS
Any time a settlement is encountered, the following procedure can be used to
ascertain information about the place and its inhabitants.

1. SIZE AND TYPE:

Roll a d6 to determine the size and general type of the settlement. Any hex
within 10 hexes of a city treats 5–6 as “Village”

1 Lone dwelling (Hermit, Outlaw, etc.)

2 Encampment (Small group of tents, yurts, etc.)
3–4 Tribal Compound (A few dozen inhabitants)
5 Village (Up to a few hundred inhabitants)
6 City (A few thousand inhabitants)

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 KAL-ARATH

2. DOMINANT FACTION OR GROUP:

Roll a d6 to determine the dominant faction or group in the settlement.

1 Warlord
2 Religious Sect
3 Merchant/Guild
4 Tribe/Clan
5 Local Militia or Mercenaries
6 Mix of several small groups, competing for resources — roll 3x, discarding 6’s

3. IMPORTANT NPCS:

Roll on the following d66 tables for important NPCs, to determine role,
motivation, trait.

ROLE
11: Shaman 41: Innkeeper
12: Warlord 42: Storyteller
13: Nomad Leader 43: Craftsman
14: Smith 44: Falconer
15: Trader 45: Smuggler
16: Scout 46: Guard
21: Hermit 51: Herdsman
22: Hunter 52: Nomad
23: Elder 53: Refugee
24: Soothsayer 54: Sorceress
25: Healer 55: Beastmaster
26: Warrior 56: Youth
31: Pit Fighter 61: Beggar
32: Thief 62: Mercenary
33. Prostitute 63: Farmer
34: Forager 64: Emissary
35: Outcast 65: Captive
36: Mystic 66: Demon

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 KAL-ARATH

MOTIVATION
11: Seek Wealth 41: Secure Safety
12: Gain Power 42: Find Home
13: Find Love 43: Escape Past
14: Achieve Peace 44: Heal Wounds
15: Obtain Knowledge 45: Resolve Conflict
16: Attain Freedom 46: Pursue Passion
21: Seek Revenge 51: Overcome Addiction
22: Establish Legacy 52: Break Curse
23: Prove Worth 53: Find Truth
24: Protect Family 54: Achieve Greatness
25: Overcome Fear 55: Restore Honor
26: Fulfill Duty 56: Forge Alliance
31: Attain Enlightenment 61: Conquer Challenges
32: Explore Unknown 62: Solve Mystery
33: Make Amends 63: Prevent Disaster
34: Find Purpose 64: Attain Wisdom
35: Achieve Victory 65: Uncover Secrets
36: Gain Respect 66: Master Skill

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 KAL-ARATH

TRAITS
11: Brash 41: Grim
12: Sneaky 42: Odd
13: Fierce 43: Sharp
14: Guarded 44: Distrusting
15: Moody 45: Loyal
16: Obstinate 46: Untamed
21: Violent 51: Strong
22: Cautious 52: Shrewd
23: Rough 53: Silent
24: Enigmatic 54: Severe
25: Crafty 55: Zealous
26: Cold 56: Bold
31: Vindictive 61: Fearless
32: Stoic 62: Wild
33: Slow 63: Stern
34: Secretive 64: Solemn
35: Tough 65: Steadfast
36: Thoughtful 66: Remote

4. RESOURCES AND TRADE:

Roll a d6 to determine the main resources and trade goods available.

1 Livestock and animal products
2 Metalwork and tools
3 Textiles and clothing
4 Food and rations
5 Herbs, specialty items
6 Information

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 KAL-ARATH

5. RUMORS AND OPPORTUNITIES:

11: Stolen sacred relic 41: Vanishing travelers

12: Violent nomad tribe 42: Discovered ritual site
13: Hidden treasure cave 43: Desecrated ancestral burial
14: Outlawed rituals 44: Stolen totem
15: Forbidden ancient texts 45: Hidden monastery
16: Corrupted village elder 46: Betrayed warlord
21: Abandoned yurts 51: Ruined temple
22: Dishonored warrior 52: Silent warrior cult
23: Poisoned water source 53: Stolen herd animals
24: Blockaded route 54: Forbidden love
25: Lost caravan goods 55: Collapsed cliff
26: Enslaved nomads 56: Upcoming battle
31: Sacrificial cult 61: Seasonal dance
32: Plague-ridden refugees 62: Blood feud
33: Smuggled artifacts 63: Secret underground passage
34: Wandering warrior 64: Nightly predatory beasts
35: Mysterious hermit’s warning 65: Haunted canyon
36: Ancient curse 66: Lost ancient scripture

6. POTENTIAL CONFLICTS OR CHALLENGES:

Roll a d6 to determine if there are any potential conflicts or challenges in

the settlement.
1–2 Internal Conflict (Faction rivalry, local disputes, etc.)
3–4 External Threat (Threats from outside the settlement)
5 Resource Scarcity (Shortage of food, water, or other essentials)
6 Relative Stability (No major conflicts or challenges apparent)

7. SPECIAL FEATURES OR EVENTS:

Roll a d6 to determine if there are any special features or events currently taking place.
1 Religious Festival or Ritual
2 Market Day or Trade Fair
3 Tournament or Contest
4 Local Celebration or Holiday
5 Recent Incident or Crisis
6 No special events; a typical day in the settlement

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 KAL-ARATH

DUNGEONS
Upon discovery of “Dungeon,” roll on the following tables to proceed:

NATURE AND SIZE OF THE LOCATION

Nature of the Location (Roll d6)

1 City Ruins
2 Dungeon
3 Temple
4 Caverns
5 Fort
Special (Non-typical — vertical structure with bridges, underwater caves,
6
labyrinth, ruined vessel etc.)

Size of the Location (Roll d6)

1 Small 3 Areas
2–3 Medium 5 Areas
4 Large 7 Areas
5 Vast 9 Areas
6 Colossal 11 Areas

*Note*: Adjust the sizes as per the desired challenge and game pacing.

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 KAL-ARATH

DETERMINING DUNGEON AREAS

Dice Pool Creation

Based on the size, create a dice pool of d6’s, one for each area.

For example, for a Large location, you would have 7d6. These areas don’t
necessarily represent individual rooms - an area could be a floor, a room, a large
cavern, a section of corridors - it’s up to you. Each area will be defined by a
certain number which will indicate the tables to roll on for contents.

Rolling and Placement

Roll all the dice at once and let them fall where they may on a flat surface or
sheet of paper.
- The position of the dice relative to each other represents the layout of the areas.
Closer dice are directly connected, while farther dice may require passages/stairs
or additional areas to connect - for these major gaps, you can roll another die if
you like on the Passages table, or simply opt to roleplay it. Swimming through an
underwater tunnel, going to another section of a ruined city, and the like.

- The number on each die represents the type of area or room, determined by a
separate table.

Important note for solo play: Draw around the dice on your initial throw to
determine areas shape and how many passages/connections you’ll have to go
through.

When actually exploring it, reroll each die as you enter the area to determine its
contents, this way you get to actually explore and be surprised at what’s there
instead of seeing it all ahead of time.

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 KAL-ARATH

BOSS ROOMS

When a 6 is present, this indicates a boss area. If more than 1 is rolled, keep the
6 that is “furthest in” to the dungeon, and “downgrade” any other 6’s by re-rolling
them until another number comes up.

Area Type
1 Empty
2 Hazard/Obstacle/Trap
3 Foe/Monster/Combat
4 NPC
5 Item/Treasure Room
6 Special Room/Boss

HAZARD/OBSTACLE/TRAP

(Traps are set off on a 1-3 on d6 when entering/passing through their area.)

AGI check 8+ to avoid or suffer d6 damage from

2 Collapsing Tunnel
falling debris
Blood Moss Lose 2 HP passing through as the moss drains
3
Chamber blood; must be burned to pass safely
AGI check 8+ to detect/avoid or fall for d6
4 False Floor
damage
AGI check 8+ to avoid or fall in for 2d6 impaling
5 Spiked Pit
damage
1 in 3 chance the bridge collapses, fall d6x10 feet
6 Weak Bridge
for that many d6 damage
TOU check 8+ or suffer a disadvantage on all
7 Choking Dust
actions until a rest period
8 Tripwire Alarm 1–3 on d6 chance to alert nearby enemies
AGI check 8+ to avoid or take 2d6 blunt force
9 Falling Rock Trap
damage
Navigating around or over requires an AGI check
10 Deep Chasm
8+; failure means a fall with variable consequences
Passage requires a TOU check 8+ to swim through
11 Flooded Passage
without losing equipment or taking d6 damage
AGI check 8+ to navigate without causing a
12 Crumbling Cliff/Wall landslide/cave-in for 2d6 damage or falling for
d6x10 feet +damage

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 KAL-ARATH

FOE

This is a very basic dungeon encounter chart. You can replace any of the
monsters on it with ones that make more sense for what you’ve rolled or what
narrative you’re following or have generated.

A full bestiary is forthcoming, but you can quite easily use any OSR monster by
following this rule of thumb:

• Convert HD to d6.

• Convert d6-d8 damages to straight d6. Convery d4 and under to d6/d.

Convery d10 and d12 to d6/a.

• Convert heavier damage to a number of d6’s that make sense. 2d6 is quite
heavy damage in this game, and something like 5d6 is going to kill *most*
things in a single hit, especially is 6’s are rolled.

• Descending Armor Class of 7-9 is Light (1); 4-6 is Medium (2), 0-3 or
better is Heavy.

• Ascending Armor Class is as follows: +1-3 is Light, +4-+6 is Medium, +7-+10

and above is Heavy.

All you need to make your own monsters is HP, Attack/Dmg, Armor, Morale,
and any special attacks or strategies they might have. It’s pretty dang simple.

For human foes, just use the same abilities as players have access to and decide
on a level/HD.

Enjoy!

2 Black Legion Champion with Mercenaries

3 Ghoul d6
4 Skeleton Warrior 2d6
5 Beastmen or Kuyu 2d6
6 Giant Spider d6
7 Wolves d6
8 Steppe Jackals 2d6
9 Raptor Lizard (1 or 2 1-3 or 4-6)
10 Giant Snake 1
11 Mercenaries 2d6
12 Eukarya 1

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 KAL-ARATH

NPC

1 Treasure Seeker
2 Monk/Mystic
3 Scavenger
4 Soldier/Mercenary
5 Historian
6 Guide/Scout/Expert

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 KAL-ARATH

ITEM/TREASURE
First roll d6. On 1-2 it is guarded by a Foe.
11 Ancient Coins 3d6 10s
12 Furs 2d6 5s
13 Engraved Silverware 15s
14 Iron Ingots d6 5s each
15 Tarnished Jewelry 5s
16 Fine Cloth d6 yards 10s/yard
21 Carved Ivory Idol 25s
22 Fine Bronze Neckpiece 30s
23 Leather Armor 30s
24 Iron Sword d6 15s
25 Herbal Remedies d6 doses nullifies poison 15s/dose
26 Waterskin 8s
31 Traveler’s Pack 20s
32 Masterwork Steel Dagger 70s
33 Grain Sack 10s
34 Rope 50ft 5s
35 Silver Mirror 30s
36 Adventurer’s Bones
41 Wooden Trinkets 2s each
42 Fine Embroidered Cloak 25s
43 Soldier’s Helmet (Dented) 20s
44 Whetstone 2s
45 Quality Boots 25s
46 Animal Pelts d6 3s each
51 Finely Made Bow 80s
52 Enchanted Amulet +1 Armor 200s
53 Brass Lantern 12s
54 Healing Salve d6 applications, each heals d6 HP 10s each
55 Masterwork Steel Sword 150s
56 Elaborately Carved Scroll Case Empty 30s

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 KAL-ARATH

20–100s
61 Alchemical Elixirs d6 vials / Random effect
each
62 Gold Necklace 60s
63 Rare Spices d6 packs 20s each
64 Exquisite Wine 1–2 Spoiled / 3+ Good 5s/50s
65 Masterwork Chainmail 200s
Rolls all attacks and damage Priceless,
66 Rune Blade at advantage, on killing enemy, or
regain d6 HP 10,000s

SPECIAL FEATURE/BOSS ROOM

1. An altar stained with eons of blood, depicting slaughter of Neanderthal-like

cave people by a more advanced race. Still living somehow after all this time is
a member of this forgotten line — massive, hideous, clothed in rotten fur and
scraps of human hide — he carries a bone sword etched with the markings of
his forgotten tongue.

Kuyu Cannibal Champion

HP: 24
Damage: Bone Sword — damage rolls of 5-6 explode
as if a natural 6.
Special:  onsume. Each round there is a 1-2 chance on
C
a d6 the Champion makes a bite attack, ripping
meat and blood from his opponent, d6 with
advantage. He gains an equal amount of HP.

2. Round chamber, the center of which contains a raised stone obelisk atop of which
sits a heart-like organ of unknown origin, pulsating with a sickly green light. The
organ manifests Foes at random, 1 each round, until it is destroyed. (30HP)

Room also holds many corpses of various men and beasts, in various stages of decay.

Assorted coins (200s)

An iron mace that stuns enemies for 1 round on any damage roll of natural 5.

A horse sculpture with a word on the bottom that when spoken summons a
massive, powerful and swift horse for d6 hours a day when out of doors. When
the time ends, the horse stops dead for a few moments, then will throw any rider
and gallop to the horizon. Any attempt to imprison or stop him will result in a
stampede of wild horses (5d6) attacking the area within d6 minutes.

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3. Remnants of a Eukaryan priest’s sanctum, walls still hold some inscriptions in

that hideous language, and the desiccated husks of two giant, armored mantids
that spring to life when the room is disturbed.

Temple Guardians
HP: 15/18
Damage: d6 with advantage (spiked polearms)
Armor: 3 (ancient plate armor)
Special:  eaping Strike. At beginning of combat, both will
L
attempt a leaping strike, which covers distance between
them and their target, and if it hits, acts as a critical,
dealing double damage dice. In two rounds, they will
do it again, and so on.

In the sanctum is a book containing 3 Eukaryan sorceries (acts as random effect

scroll, roll on pact and spell list to determine)

A noxious green powder in a bag (6 uses) that can be consumed in a tea and
grants the user an advantage on casting a spell.

A brass chest plate inscribed with a primitive sun that can be worn and acts
as Armor 2.

4. An ancient burial room contains a warlord from days long gone by, and d6 of
his retainers, clothes in tatters, mail rusted to stains, but still holding weapons
in their skeletal fingers.

They attack!
Warlord
HP: 5d6 (20)
Armor: Ancient Plate (1)
Attack: Rune-carved Sword d6 (2x-rd)
Special:  n a critical hit, sword forced automatic roll on Death
O
and Wounding Table

Retainer
HP: 2d6 (8)
Attack: Bronze Axe d6

The room contains an ornate box (60s) with d6 different powdered herbs with d6
uses each.

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The warlord’s Runecarved Blade (on a critical hit, there is a 2-6 chance of
automatically killing any opponent)

5. Torchlight illuminates ancient frescoes that depict the rise of a civilization

built on the waters of an endless ocean offering sacrifices to what seems to be
a huge mass of tentacles. In the cavern’s center, a deep and broad cistern of
unknowable depth containing the offspring of a god that once called this area
home when it was underwater.

Tentacled Horror
HP: 28
Damage: d6, attacks 4x-rd
Armor: 1
Special:  rapple instead of damage — if successful, no further
G
attack roll is required next round to deal d6 crushing
damage. Escape requires Strength check against 8+.

Cloud of Chaos — Once per round, there is a 1–6 chance

that the Horror uses its attack to create a 30’ wide cloud
of confusion around itself — all opponents caught inside
must make INT check 8+ for d6 rounds in order to act.

In the room is a bronze crown/circlet that allows its wearer to cast “Diamond
Mind Shatters” (Domination, Tier 1) 1x-day.

A copper dagger that allows the user to take 2 attacks each round.

A bag of silver ingots from an ancient kingdom (500s)

6. A huge cavern containing piles of countless human bones. Within, a primeval

monster from the dawn of man - a massive hulk of muscle, cream and jade colored
scales and fangs the length of swords, eyes burning in its awful reptilian face.

Tyrant Lizard
HP: 32
Damage: 2d6 bite, d6 tail
(ignores armor, knocks anyone struck d6x5 feet away.)
Armor: 2 (hide)
Special: Awful Roar — When it roars, opponents must make a
Presence check against a difficulty of 8 or be terrified, losing
next action as if stunned. Tyrant Lizard will perform its roar
at the beginning of combat, then roll d6 and count the die
down each round — when it reaches 0, Tyrant Lizard will
perform its roar again.

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Among the bones are an obsidian battle axe that grants its bearer advantage on
all initiative rolls.

A bag of jade figurines worth 300s.

A scroll containing the instructions for a demonic pact of random type.

PASSAGES/CORRIDORS/CONNECTIONS (ROLL D6)

For each passage or corridor, roll a d6 when traversing. On a 1, you encounter a Foe
1 Straight, unremarkable corridor
2 Winding, narrow passage
3 Staircase up/down
4 Hidden/Secret passage
5 Blocked/Impassable without effort
6 Special feature (trap, mural, etc.)

Rolling a 1 on D6 when traveling any corridor or room you’ve been through

before means there’s a random enemy.

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BESTIARY

Ash’Hassim
HP: 2d6
Armor: Leather 1
Attack: Dagger (d6/d)
Morale: Average (8)
Special: Stealth (INT check 8+ to detect)
Backstab (add d6 on unaware targets)

Beastmen
HP: d6
Armor: None (0)
Attack: Claws or Club (d6/d or d6)
Morale: Cowardly (6)
Special: Pack Tactics (PCs at -2 Dodge when outnumbered by Beastmen

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Black Legion Champion

HP: 5d6
Armor: Chain and Plate (2)
Attack: Greatsword (d6/a)x2-rd
Morale: Elite (10)
Special: Intimidate (Presence check 8+ or opponent makes combat
rolls at disadvantage)

Duelist/Pit Fighter
HP: 3d6
Armor: Leather and Shield (2) / Just Leather (1)
Attack: Sword (d6) x2-rd
Morale: 8

Eukarya (Giant Mantis)

HP: 5d6
Armor: Carapace (2)
Attack: Claws (d6) Bite (d6) (two attacks - round)
Morale: 8
Special: Leaping Attack — if more than 10’ from opponent and
succeeds with Claw attack, knocks enemy prone and
automatically succeeds with bite

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Ghoul
HP: 2d6
Armor: Rotting Mail or Leather (1)
Attack: Claws (d6)
Morale: N/A
Special: Paralyzing Touch (TOU check 8+ or target is paralyzed
for d6 rounds)

Giant (Humanoid)
HP: 6d6
Armor: Hide (1)
Attack: Club (2d6)
Morale: 11
Special: Throw Boulder (ranged attack 2d6, single target)

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Giant Owl
HP: 3d6
Armor: 0
Attack: Talons (d6)
Morale: 10
Special: Swoop — Successful talon attack may carry human or small
animal (sheep etc) d6x10 feet into the air and drop for that
many d6 damage, ignoring armor

Giant Snake
HP: 4d6
Armor: 0
Attack: Bite d6+poison (TOU check 8+ or take additional d6
damage next turn)
Morale: 8
Special: Constrict — on successful attack, grapples one opponent.
Grappled target takes d6 constriction and automatic bite
damage each round. STR check at disadvantage to break free

Giant Spider
HP: 3d6
Armor: Chitin (1)
Attack: Bite d6+poison (TOU check 8+ or paralyzed for d6 rounds)
Morale: 6
Special: Webbing (AGI check 8+ or target is immobilized until a
STR check)

Kuyu (Neanderthal/Cave People)

HP: d6
Armor: Shield (1)
Attack: Club or Spear (d6)
Morale: 8

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Lion
HP: 4d6
Armor: 0
Attack: Claw (d6)
Bite (d6 / two attacks per round)
Morale: 9
Special: Leaping Attack — if more than 10’ from opponent and
succeeds with Claw attack, knocks enemy prone and
automatically succeeds with bite

Mercenary/Bodyguard
HP: d6
Armor: Leather and Shield (2)
Attack: Sword (d6)
Morale: 7
Nomad (Scout)
HP: d6
Armor: 0
Attack: Shortbow (d6)
Morale: 7

Nomad (Warrior)
HP: 2d6
Armor: Leather and Shield (2)
Attack: Spear (d6)
Sword (d6)
Morale: 8
Special: Mounted — Makes attacks at advantage while on horseback

Raptor Lizard
HP: 5d6
Armor: Tough Scales (1)
Attack: Claws (d6)
Bite (2d6 / two attacks per round)
Morale: 10
Special: Clever Girl — Attacks at advantage when fighting
alongside another Raptor Lizard

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Skeleton Warrior
HP: 2d6
Armor: Leather (1)
Attack: Sword (d6)
Morale: N/A
Special: Immune to fear and mind-affecting spells, all slashing and
piercing damage done at disadvantage

Sorcerer
HP: 2d6
Armor: None
Attack: Staff (d6)
Morale: 6
Special: Spells — can cast up to Tier 3 of random Pact at INT+3
Steppe Jackal
HP: d6
Armor: 0
Attack: Bite (d6)
Morale: 6
Special: Pack Tactics
Teradun (Pteranodon)
HP: 4d6
Armor: Tough Hide (1)
Attack: Beak (d6)
Morale: 6
Special: Swoop
Wolves
HP: 2d6
Armor: 0
Attack: Bite (d6 / two attacks per round)
Morale: 8
Special: Pack Tactics

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© Castle Grief 2023