DND Next Caves of Chaos

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Dungeon Module B2
The Caves of Chaos
By Gary Gygax
Revision by Robert J. Schwalb and Bruce R. Cordell
Revision Developed by Chris Sims and Matt Sernett
An Adventure for Character Levels 13
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General Notes: This module, originally titled B2: The Keep on the Borderlands, has been the standard introductory
module from the earliest boxed editions of the D&D rules. The adventure consisted of a detailed keep, to be used as a
base, and a cave complex known as the Caves of Chaos. The latter has been included here.
D&D Next Playtest: Caves of Chaos May 24, 2012
2012 Wizards of the Coast LLC
Questions and Answers
What Is This Adventure Testing?
One way to create a plot for the Caves of Chaos is to

ask yourself questions when you read through the
adventure, then come up with answers to them. For
example, you might wonder why the monsters
arent already at war with one another. The answer
to that question is a great starting point for
exercising your creative control. You can use one of
the examples above, or you can alter the adventure
to make sense for you. Maybe the different tribes
are in fact at war and the caves are like trenches in
World War I, with each side of the multifront battle
making infrequent attacks and then retreating into
its bunker. Perhaps the caves arent as close
together as shown on the map, and the canyon is
more like a hundred miles long, so that the
different tribes dont come into contact with one
another. Alternatively, you could collapse one or
more caves to create space between the inhabitants
and cut down on the elements that you have to
track.
Looming War: The cultists in the Shrine of Evil
Chaos (cave K) recently gathered an army of
monsters to the caves (slaughtering all but one
group of kobolds that had long occupied the ravine)
and are planning an assault on a nearby city. The
various tribes are preparing for war in the manner
that best suits their talents (orcs as shock troops,
hobgoblins as archers, goblins as sappers, and so
on). The city leaders learned of this threat from a
new acolyte who regrets joining the cult and seeks a
way out. They call on the PCs in hopes that a small
group can play the part of cultists, infiltrating the
caves and setting the fractious tribes against one
another so that the army never reaches the citys
walls.
Find the Heir: The tribes took many captives
from a caravan raid and have been trading the
prisoners among themselves as a sort of currency,
based on each ones ransom value. Unknown to
their captors, one of the prisoners is the heir to a
nearby kingdom. So far the other captives have kept
this fact a secret, fearing that they might become
disposable once the heir is known. The king hires
the PCs to get the heir out, but he or she wont leave
without the others, or first wants to rescue a love
interest held by another tribe.
Under Evils Thumb: The various tribes of the
Caves of Chaos are slaves to the Shrine of Evil
Chaos, forced to worship its power instead of their
own gods. Each month the cultists demand tribute,
and the tribes engage in a competition for the best
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The Caves of Chaos isnt meant to be a hard test of the

play balance between player characters (PCs) and
monsters. That process is a continuing one as we
refine the rules for monsters, characters, and
encounter building. Although you should keep an
eye on how elements of the rules interact, this
adventure is intended to explore how well the rules
support different styles of play.
Weve created a fairly faithful rendition of the
original adventure because were hoping to see how
players use this material. In other words, you can
choose to play in the theater of the mind style or
as a series of set-piece encounters using a grid and
miniatures. The free-form nature of the adventure
also gives the Dungeon Master (DM) and players
many options for play: hack-and-slash battles,
political negotiations, cloak-and-dagger deceptions,
dungeon crawls, guerrilla warfare, comedic
interactions, or any mix of those elements.
Do the rules allow you the freedom to play the
DUNGEONS & DRAGONS game way you like? How
about the adventure? What elements of it didnt
work out? What things did you change to suit your
tastes?
Make This Your Adventure
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The Caves of Chaos isnt a module in the typical

sense. It does not present a single storyline, the
motivations of the PCs are not set in stone, and the
actions and the villains dont always have obvious
motivationsnor do they work to a common end.
With this module, you dont need to belabor any
plot points. Players dont have to move through
encounters in a specific order. Theres no railroad
to ride: You and your players can make the
adventure happen however you like.
Whats My Motivation?
For many DMs and players, the simple existence of
dungeons full of monsters and treasure is reason
enough to get involved. But if youre looking for
something more, you can link these encounter
locations with any story that you think works best.
Below are some suggestions for whats going on at
the Caves of Chaos and why the PCs get involved.
You dont have take any of these ideas as they are;
youre free to change them or ignore them all and
come up with something that you like better.
offering. The tribe that makes the weakest gift must

sacrifice one of its members, whereas the one with
the best offering gains privileges and feasts on
goods the cultists procure from nearby towns.
Striving for ever more wondrous offerings is driving
the tribes into a frenzy of raiding each month. The
PCs are called in to discover the reason for the
raids and deal with the problem.
Drawn to Power: The ravine was carved in
ancient days when a piece of the eye that Corellon
cut from Gruumsh crashed into the landscape. The
various tribes were drawn there by the eyes power
and mined the rifts walls in hopes of finding it.
They continue to be held in its thrallthe orcs in
particular seem to be in a trance, breaking into
bloody-eyed fury whenever something interrupts
their search. Any group that finds the fragment of
Gruumshs eye would have tremendous power over
the others. A seer who has divined this danger
approaches the PCs with a dire warning: The
fragment will be found before the next full moon.
For the sake of all, the PCs should be the ones who
find it.
The Devil You Know: The tribes in the Caves of
Chaos have begun raiding nearby settlements after
a long period of relative peace, and the leaders of
those communities ask the PCs to open negotiations
with the tribal leaders. (The citizens of the
surrounding area are willing to pay tribute in return
for an end to the attacks and a promise of mutual
protection.) In fact, a change of leadership has
brought about the raids: The cultists of Evil Chaos
usurped control of the tribes from their old queen,
the medusa who is now held prisoner in area 64.
Certain elements of the various tribes desire the
return of the medusas rule and promise to leave
the surrounding communities in peace if the PCs
can arrange this, but others have benefited from the
raids and the shift in power. Who can be trusted?
the corpses)or turn the complex into a base for

another, tougher group of monsters.
Killer Encounters
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Most adventures published for the 3rd and 4th

editions of D&D have encounters finely tuned for
play balance and a structure meant to take the PCs
steadily from one set-piece battle to the next
(sometimes with safe resting places built in at just
the right points). The Caves of Chaos doesnt work
like that.
Instead, the PCs have the freedom to go where
they want and pick their own battlegrounds. They
can block a cave entrance and try to smoke out the
inhabitants. They can trick one tribe into blaming
another for the partys attacks and set them both to
fighting. They can lay an ambush for hunting
parties. (Of course, the monsters might get the hint
and start ambushing the PCs in return.) They might
forgo combat entirely and opt for a political
approach.
In return, though, the free-form nature of this
adventure can get the PCs into trouble quickly. The
ravine is full of areas boasting far more monsters
than a typical group of 1st-level adventurers can
handle. Ten orcs can be big trouble for the party,
especially when those orcs can give as good as they
get. Pile on another ten, and the adventurers
careers might very well end abruptly. The players
need to know that some places hold too many
monsters for their characters to defeat all at once. A
nonplayer character (NPC) could warn the party
that the caves house tribes of humanoids, many at
least fifty warriors strong, or you can describe
evidence of the passage of many individuals
through the area as the party draws near. If all else
fails, just tell the players up front that they need to
watch their step.
The Caves of Chaos is a living, breathing
environment. Large groups of intelligent creatures
are not likely to sit in their rooms, waiting for
adventurers to kill them. Half or more probably
range through the countryside, hunting and
foraging, or ambushing travelers on nearby roads.
Others might be sent to spy on a rival tribe, trade
with others, raid them, negotiate with the cultists of
the Shrine of Evil Chaos, and so on. If the PCs wipe
out the remaining denizens of one cave, the
returning members might stay to replace those lost,
form a war party to hunt down the PCs, or wage
open war against another tribe in an attempt to
seize new territory.
Dynamic Dungeons
One way to make the adventure more engrossing
and fun is to have things change, or stay the same,
depending on the PCs actions. If they kill some of
the hobgoblins and then leave, perhaps they
encounter a funeral feast when they return. If their
assault weakens the orcs enough, the PCs might
return to find goblins in the orc caves, celebrating
their victory. Character actions might have
important and long-lasting effects. Clearing the
kobold caves might provide a fine redoubt for other
assaults (once the PCs figure out what to do with
This is your adventure. Nothing stops you from

reducingor increasingthe number of creatures in
an area, making it easier or harder to suit the needs
of your story.
to run into more trouble? If they do get out of sight,

can they find a place to hole up?
Running the Adventure
In Over Their Heads?
No one can predict perfectly how players will

interact with the presented material. Youre the
Dungeon Master: When the adventure leaves
something open to interpretation, fill in the gaps to
suit your needs. Final decisions are up to you. The
guidelines presented below offer general directions
for handling exploration and encounters.
Even the best plans sometimes go wrong, and

encounters that are supposed to be easy can
become deadly if the dice turn against the players.
If the PCs get in over their heads and you want to
avoid killing them all, consider one of these ways
give them an out.
Random Encounter: Another group of monsters
arrives on the scene, providing a distraction to let
the PCs get away (unless they decide to fight the
new monsters too). For example, if the kobolds have
the PCs on the ropes, the sudden appearance of a
flock of stirges could send everyone running for
cover.
Negotiation: The monsters might be willing to
bargain, even if the PCs are on the defensive.
Perhaps their foes promise to cease the attack if the
PCs are willing to help them raid another tribes
cave.
Jailbreak: Enemies might capture one or more of
the PCs instead of killing them, and then barter
them to another tribe. That other tribe might
negotiate with the captives, or the adventurers
might find a way to escape during the transfer.
Alternatively, their captors hold the prisoners for
ransom. The PCs might be able to buy their
freedom or make a daring prison break.
Enemy of My Enemy: Another tribe shows up
partway through the fight, hoping to take advantage
of the partys earlier successes by looting the rival
tribes cave. The PCs could attempt to negotiate an
alliance with the invaders, set both groups of foes
against each other, or take advantage of the
confusion to escape.
Run Away: Players dont always agree on when
to run from a fight, especially with actions dictated
by the initiative order. A character might want to
make just one more attack or stay behind to make
sure someone else can get away. If the players are
talking about running, feel free to give them that
option, dropping out of initiative order and seguing
to a chase scene. The PCs success in escaping
should be dictated by their choices instead of by
rules minutia, such as whether one character is
slightly slower than another. Do they slam doors
shut as they run through them or use another tactic
to slow pursuers? Do they escape one danger only
Overview Map
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Woods and contour lines shown on the map are

mostly for surface movement reference.
Woods: These groves are thick growths, tangled
and forbidding. Within them, characters might
encounter monsters from nearby caves. Woods
count as difficult terrain (generally, every 5 feet of
difficult terrain that you move costs 5 extra feet of
movement); they might also provide cover or
concealment.
Underground: The passages and rooms of the
complex are on different levels. Passages slope
between the surface map contours, even where no
stairways are shown. Except where noted
otherwise, interiors are natural or hewn rock (DC
11 Strength to climb).
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Task Resolution
Some tasks indicate DCs and relevant abilities. You

can adjust the difficulty of these tasks as necessary
for the abilities of your party. This adventure does
not define every possible task or DC, which allows
you to reward creative play.
Area Entries: Each area includes a notation
about light (bright, dim, or dark). Some areas list
sensory information, such as noise, which might
include a check DC. Such checks are usually for
active detection (usually using Wisdom). You might
allow passive detection, using Wisdom or another
appropriate ability, possibly assigning a higher DC
to the check. Remember to account for monsters
movement in a complexif inhabitants left a room
to support an attack elsewhere or to investigate
evidence of intruders, the normal sounds of
conversation will be reduced or absent.
Monster Statistics
Each lair (a cave complex) includes general notes
for its residents organization and behavior,
presented in a sidebar at the beginning of that
section. Encounter areas generally list condensed

statistics for monsters: Armor Class (AC), hit points
(hp), and attack bonuses and damage. If the
monsters have treasure, or follow specific tactics,
this information is presented in a separate entry.
Once you become familiar with the monsters in
the Caves of Chaos Bestiary, the shorter statistics are
usually all you need during the game. (You can
always refer back to the Bestiary if necessary.)
Attacks always target AC. Many monsters have a
choice between a couple of attacks (usually melee
and ranged). Some attacks have special effects if
they hit, which are described in detail after the
attack numbers. If an effect requires a saving throw
to negate or end, the DC and relevant ability are
provided in the entry.
Ability Score Modifiers: Condensed monster
statistics dont list ability scores. If you need to make
a check for a monster, such as for a saving throw,
you can either consult the Bestiary or, to save time,
estimate the modifier. For unique creatures, assume
that they have the base abilities listed for the
creature in the Bestiary.
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respond by setting alarms and traps. If they observe

that characters flee from overwhelming numbers,
the monsters might shout and make noise to seem
more numerous. Monsters that have been attacked
before are likely to be on high alert, posting extra
guards in entrances or sending out scouts to watch
for enemy approach.
Taking Prisoners: Some tribes might take
prisoners rather than killing enemiesyou decide
to what end. For example, the hobgoblins in cave F
might hold captives in the prison (area 24), perhaps
to eat later.
Ransom: Organized tribes might demand ransom
to free the captives, perhaps releasing one character
to fetch the payment. Set the sums low: 2 to 20 gp
per prisoner, or a magic item that the ransoming
tribe might find useful, should suffice. If the ransom
is paid, the monsters release the characters. Such
success might bring fame to the tribe, increasing its
numbers by 2d6 in addition to growing its wealth.
The tribe might be extra alert for 1d4 weeks
afterward, in case the adventurers return to take
revenge (or some other party comes to seize the
loot).
Cleared Areas: When the PCs clear all monsters
out of a cave complex, it remains deserted for a
time; 1d4 weeks is a typical interval. If the party
does not enter the lair again before the end of that
period, it might be repopulated. Perhaps the
surviving former inhabitants return or another
monster moves in: For instance, a troll might take
over the deserted minotaurs cave complex (I),
bringing with it whatever treasure it has.
Monster Tribes
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Several groups of monsters are organized into tribes

that inhabit specific cave complexes. Make their
presence clear to players when their characters
approach densely populated areas: Describing the
associated noise is usually enough. Armed with
such information, the party can make informed
decisions before they blunder into an
overwhelming encounter.
Tribal Interactions: Many of the creatures
inhabiting the Caves of Chaos have formed
alliances and rivalries; for example, goblins and
hobgoblins on one side and orcs, sometimes with
giant allies, on the other. Others are unallied:
Kobolds hope to be overlooked, and bugbears pick
off stragglers from all conflicts. If the characters
become aware of skirmishing between factions,
they could set tribes against one another and then
take advantage of the feuding groups weakened
state. On the other hand, they could turn to political
maneuvering. Such strategies require careful play,
using wits instead of force when the opportunity
arises.
Learning from Experience: Intelligent monsters
adapt their strategy and tactics to observed
behavior. For example, if the party uses flaming oil
in battle, surviving tribal members might use oil
later in a similar way. If adventurers consistently
sneak up on the monsters, their targets could
Introduction
You have been passing through the forest for some
time, as it grows denser and gloomier, until the
misshapen trees and grasping briars suddenly give
way to a ravine. Its wallsdark, streaked rock
mingled with earthrise steeply to either side to a
height of about 100 feet. Clumps of trees, some
dead, stand even on the slopes. The opening you are
in is about 200 feet wide, and the ravine runs at
least 400 feet west. At varying heights on all sides of
the ravine are the black mouths of caves in the rock
walls. The sunlight is dim and the air is dank, with
the oppressive feeling of something evil watching. A
flock of ravens rises croaking from the ground, the
terrain magnifying the beat of their wings and their
cries into a horrible sound. Among the litter of
rubble, boulders, and dead wood on the ravine
floor, you can see bones of humanoids, animals, and
other creatures. You have discovered the Caves of

Chaos.
Dexterity saving throw (DC 11 for those in the

second rank) to avoid falling 10 feet into the pit and
taking 1d6 damage. The pit lid then slams shut (DC
13 Strength to open from inside). Noise from the
sprung trap attracts the monsters from areas 1 and
2.
Six kobold guards are stationed in area 1, which
also contains a number of planks used to cross the
pit. They use their daggers during the first round if
they win initiative.
A. Kobold Lair
A thick clump of trees doesnt quite hide the black mouth
of an opening in the ravine wall.
Light: Dim (daylight under the trees) or none
Eight kobold guards are in hiding in the woods
around the cave mouth (DC 15 Wisdom to notice).
They attack if the party attempts to enter, with
surprise if unnoticed beforehand.
Kobolds (6): AC 14; hp 2; spear +0 (1d8 2) or

dagger +2 (1d4 + 2)
Kobolds (8, XP 75): AC 14; hp 2 each; spear +0

(1d8 2) or dagger +2 (1d4 + 2)
2. Garbage Heap
Treasure: Each kobold carries 1d6 sp.
XP 550
Light: None
Noise: Squeaking and rustling
Smell: Rotting food and garbage
Running the Kobolds
Cave Rats (18): AC 12; hp 1; bite 2 (1)

Swarm Attack A rat gains advantage on melee
attacks if its target is within the reach of at least two
other rats.
Kobolds are notorious for their traps. You might

want to supplement the existing defenses of the
tribe with simple devices such as tripwires and
concealed pits. The inhabitants are aware of their
own traps and have a good chance of evading those
laid against them.
Dire Rat: AC 12; hp 5; bite +2 (1d6 and pestilence)

Pestilence A living creature bitten by a dire rat
must succeed on a DC 11 Constitution saving
throw or take 1d6 extra damage. Creatures
immune to disease are immune to this extra
damage.
1. Guard Room
Treasure: The dire rat is a favored pet. It wears a

thin silver chain around its neck, set with 5
semiprecious gems (total 15 gp).
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The kobolds main dwelling is area 6. You can have

a group of 1d4 + 4 kobolds from this area sneak out
every few minutes to outflank or ambush intruders
they know about. At least eight kobolds remain in
area 6 at all times.
Dark Dwelling: Kobolds can see 60 feet in the
dark.
Strength in Numbers: As long as kobolds
outnumber their foes, they have advantage on
attacks.
Light Sensitivity: Kobolds have attack
disadvantage in areas of bright light.
Mounds of garbage, waste, and offal foul the area.
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Cave rats and a dire rat burrow in and feed on the

piles of garbage. These pets of the kobolds rush to
the sound of the pit closing or battle nearby.
XP 450
You enter a roughly cut tunnel that diverges ahead,

offering two different paths. Several planks poke out of a
pocket chamber to the northeast.
3. Food Storage
Light: None
Noise: Intermittent conversation in high-pitched
Draconic
The door is locked (DC 13 Dexterity to unlock,

requires thieves tools).
Light: None
Smell: Rotting meat
Pit Trap (DC 13 Wisdom to find): A pit is

hidden at the junction 30 feet inside the entrance.
If the trap goes undetected, each character in the
partys first rank must succeed on a DC 15
This storage area is filled with sacks, boxes, barrels, and

piles of unidentifiable stuff, as well as a large wine cask.
The floor is covered with rotting, gnawed parts of

humanoid bodies.
find) is 50 gp. The chest holds 203 cp, 61 sp, and

22 ep.
Food (preserved and otherwise) is stored here,

along with drink. The cask contains vinegary wine.
6. Kobold Common Chamber XP up to

3,000
4. Elite Guard Room
XP 375
Light: Dim (banked bonfire)

Noise: Babble of many squeaking voices
Light: None
Noise: Intermittent conversation in high-pitched
Draconic
A banked bonfire lights this smelly chamber. A few dozen

kobolds are sleeping, cooking, eating, or arguing amid
heaps of foliage, tattered fabric, and junk of all sorts.
This small, simply furnished chamber has a recessed

wooden door in the east wall.
Most kobolds in the tribe live and sleep here.

During the day, up to forty adult kobolds and eight
whelps (noncombatants) are resting here. At other
times, some of the adults are out foraging, hunting,
and raiding. At least eight kobolds always stay
behind to guard the young.
You can use these kobolds to supplement or
replenish their numbers in other encounters.
(Remember to account for any kobolds that have
already left the chamber.) If the PCs have killed the
chieftain, they might cow these kobolds into
surrendering.
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Treasure: Each kobold carries 2d10 sp.
Elite Kobolds (3): AC 17; HD 3; hp 10; short

sword +4 (1d6 + 2)
Dragonshield An elite kobold can go on the
defensive, raising its shield to block attacks. As a
reaction, the dragonshield interposes itself between
an attacker and an ally within 5 feet of it. An attack
made against that ally instead targets the
dragonshield.
Kobolds (up to 40): AC 14; hp 2 each; spear +0

(1d8 2) or dagger +4 (1d4 + 2)
5. Kobold Chieftains Room
Treasure: Any search of the heaps uncovers a

fine piece of silk worth 15 sp. Each adult kobold has
1d4 2 sp.
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Development: If combat occurs here, the kobold

chieftain and his retinue (area 5) join the fight at
the start of the second round of combat.
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XP 625
Light: Dim (guttering lantern)

Noise (DC 11): Piping arguments
B. Orc Lair
All manner of savage trophies hang on the walls of this

stifling cave, including furs, tapestries, and old blankets.
Heaps of cloth and bits of battered furniture litter the
floor. A lantern on a plank table burns dimly.
The northern wall is decorated with the heads of humans,

elves, and dwarves in various stages of decay. These grisly
trophies sit in small niches that dot the wall.
The outsize (Medium) kobold chieftain rules the tribe

from this room, along with several attendants.
Light: Dim (daylight from cave mouth) or none

Noise: Harsh voices from both directions, louder
from the west
Kobold Chieftain: AC 16; hp 44; handaxe +2/+2

(1d6 + 1) or call reinforcements (1/combat)
g. The Watcher (XP 125): An orc guard here

watches the entrance through a small stone
opening, making the guards head look like one of
the others decorating the entry wall. A character
who closely examines the heads (DC 13 Wisdom)
discovers that this one is alive.
If intruders enter, the guard ducks and places a
goblin head where hers was (DC 15 Wisdom to
notice the switch during or after the fact). She then
hurries to alert the orcs in area 8. If the characters
Kobolds (5): AC 14; hp 2 each; spear +0 (1d8 2)

or dagger +2 (1d4 + 2)
Treasure: The chieftain wears a necklace with a
gem (5 gp), and he has keys to the storage room
(area 3) and a locked chest (DC 15 Dexterity to
unlock, requires thieves tools). Hidden in an old
blanket hanging on the wall (DC 13 Wisdom to
are paying attention to the orc head, they notice the

switch the next time they check.
Four orc guards are stationed here. When they become

aware of intruders, they howl to alert others and rush
forward into combat.
The Watcher (Orc): AC 13; hp 11; battleaxe +3

(1d8 + 1) or shortbow +2 (1d6)
Orcs (4): AC 13; hp 11; spear +3 (1d6 + 1)
Running the Orcs
Development: If the watcher (area g) alerts the

orc guards here, they rush to attack intruders
threatening area 7 or 9, or anyone approaching this
room.
The orcs main dwelling is area 10. If they know

about intruders, you can have a group of 1d4 + 3
orcs from that area sortie every few minutes to
confront them. At least seven orcs remain in area
10 at all times to guard the young. If the intruders
flee the lair, orcs from area 10 are likely to give
pursuit.
After they become aware of intruders, six orcs
from area 10 move to area 9 to set up an ambush
(DC 15 Wisdom to notice).
If the orc leader in this lair is killed, surviving
orcs retreat to the lair in cave complex C, taking
everything of value with them.
Darkvision: Orcs can see 60 feet in the dark.
Furious Charge As an action the orc can move
up to its speed in a straight line and attack. On a hit,
the target takes 1d6 extra damage. The orc then
grants advantage until its next turn starts.
Treasure: Each orc guard carries 1d4 ep.
9. Banquet Area
Light: Dim (fire in fireplace)

Noise: Many harsh voices to the west
Smell: Smoke
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A great fireplace in the south wall glows with a small

charcoal fire. Benches and tables fill the chamber. One
chair, which is larger than the rest and is set at the head of
a big table, is carved with an inscription in a crude
alphabet.
The inscription is in Orc. It reads, For the Leader.
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7. Guard Room
XP 500
10. Orc Common Room XP up to 3,750

Noise: Harsh voices to the east
Light: Dim (smoldering bonfire)

Noise: Many harsh voices
Smell: Body odor, rot, and smoke
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Ratty pallets are strewn on the floor, and shabby clothing

hangs on wooden pegs set in the wall.
A smoldering fire in the center of the chamber dimly

illuminates a large number of orcs going about daily
business in a chamber full of sleeping pallets and refuse
heaps.
Four orc guards are stationed here. When they

become aware of intruders, they howl to alert
others and rush forward into combat.
Orcs (4): AC 13; hp 11; spear +3 (1d6 + 1)
Most of the tribes members live and sleep in this

chamber. During the day, up to thirty adult orcs
and nine whelps (noncombatants) can be found
here, resting, fighting, or bickering over food and
imagined offenses. Even orcs engaged in quiet
activities such as stitching clothes together are
shouting to be heard above the general din. During
the night, most of these orcs spread out through the
ravine and surrounding lands. They leave behind
1d6 + 3 adults to watch over the young.
You can use these orcs to supplement or
Remember to subtract any orcs you sent elsewhere
from those here.
Development: If the watcher (area g) went to

area 8, orcs from there might join those here. If the
characters pursued the watcher to area 8, the orcs
here rush to attack the invaders there.
Treasure: Each orc guard carries 1d4 ep.
8. Guard Room
XP 500
Light: None
Noise: Harsh voices to the east
Ratty pallets are strewn on the floor, and shabby clothing
hangs on wooden pegs set in the wall.
Orcs (up to 30): AC 13; hp 11; battleaxe +3 (1d8

+ 1) or shortbow +2 (1d8)
wears a jeweled ring (20 gp). He has a key to the

storage chamber (area 11) and to the locked iron
chest in area t (see below). Each orc mate carries
1d4 gp.
Treasure: Each adult orc carries 1d6 3 sp.
11. Storage Chamber
Area t: Hidden behind a tapestry on the west wall,

this small room holds two suits of chainmail, four
longswords, and a locked iron chest (DC 15
Dexterity to unlock, requires thieves tools) that
holds 205 cp, 386 sp, 81 ep, and 13 gp.

Light: None
Smell: Rotting meat
Niche: A boulder covers a tiny recess in the south

wall (DC 13 Wisdom to find; DC 13 Strength to roll
the boulder aside), which contains a healing potion.
This rudely cut room is filled with sacks, boxes, and

barrels. Wall racks contain several shields and weapons.
C. Orc Lair
The room holds various sorts of dried and salted

meat (some of it not well preserved), grain, and
vegetables. The weapon racks hold three light
shields, seventeen spears, and two greataxes. A
small crate in the northeast corner contains a light
crossbow and 60 bolts.
ES
Light: None
Noise: Occasional comment
XP 550

Noise: Harsh voices from both directions, louder
from the east
Net Trap: A series of thin wires (DC 15 Wisdom to
notice) runs across the passage about 10 feet in
from the entrance. When a creature trips a wire, a
weighted net (10 feet wide by 20 feet long) drops
from the ceiling on up to eight creatures adjacent to
it (DC 11 Dexterity saving throw to avoid), and
metal pieces tied to the net create a racket that
alerts nearby orc guards. Any creatures who fail the
saving throw are restrained (DC 13 Strength or
Dexterity saving throw ends). Six orcs from area 14
show up on the next round, and nine orcs from area
15 arrive at the start of the following round.
YT
12. Orc Leaders Room
Tunnels snake off into the darkness in three directions.
A carpet covers the rooms floor, and tapestries hang on its

walls. Worn furniture includes a cot and floor pillows.
PL
A
The orc leader, a cunning brute, lives here with his

two mates. The leader wears chainmail and carries
a +1 heavy shield.
Orc Leader: AC 16; hp 45; battleaxe +6 (1d12 + 6)

Death Strike When the leader drops to 0 hit
points, he uses a reaction to make a melee attack.
Wounded Retaliation Each time the leader is
damaged, he gains a +1 bonus to his next melee
attack. This bonus stacks.
Running the Orcs

The orcs main dwelling is area 15. If alerted, you
can have a group of 1d6 + 3 orcs from that area
sortie to confront intruders. The rest remain in area
15 at all times to guard the young. After they
become aware of intruders, half the orcs from area
15 move to fortify the entrance against further
invasion.
If this lairs orc leader is killed, surviving orcs
retreat to the lair in cave complex B, taking
everything of value with them.
Darkvision: Orcs can see 60 feet in the dark.
Furious Charge As an action the orc can move
up to its speed in a straight line and attack. On a hit,
the target takes 1d6 extra damage. The orc then
grants advantage until its next turn starts.
Orc Mates (2): AC 13; hp 11; battleaxe +3

(1d8 + 1)
Development: If hard pressed, the leader goes
behind the tapestries on the south wall, opens the
secret door to area 13, and seeks help from the
tribe in cave complex C. Otherwise, the secret door
is revealed only by a search (DC 13 Wisdom to
find).
Treasure: In addition to his armor and +1 heavy
shield, the orc leader has 11 gp in a pouch, and he
13. Secret Room
XP 50
15. Orc Common Hall
Secret doors (DC 13 Wisdom to find) allow access

to this room from both orc complexes. Orc leaders
meet here to plan and parley.
Light: Dim (smoldering cook fire)

Noise: Many harsh voices
This smoke-stained chamber holds wooden tables, stools,
and a large fire pit over which several rusted pots hang. It
also contains more than a dozen sleeping pallets.
Light: None
Noise (DC 15): Occasional clicking
In the rooms center are a small table and two chairs. A
cracked barrel stands nearby. To one side is a small
wooden chest, above which hang two small shields. Junk
lies everywhere: broken crates, cracked shields, old bones,
and cast-off boots.
Most of the tribes members live and sleep in this

chamber. During the day, up to seventeen adult
orcs and four whelps (noncombatants) can be found
here, resting, fighting, or bickering. During the
night, many of these orcs spread out through the
ravine and surrounding lands. They leave behind
1d6 + 3 adults to watch over the young.
You can use these orcs to supplement or
Remember to subtract any orcs you sent elsewhere
from those here.
The old barrel is open on its bottom. Nesting under

it are two giant centipedes (the source of the
clicking sound), which attack only if the barrel is
moved.
ES
Giant Centipedes (2): AC 11; hp 1; bite +1 (1 and

centipede venom)
Centipede Venom A living creature bitten by a
giant centipede must immediately make a DC 7
Constitution saving throw. On a failed saving throw,
the creature takes 1d4 poison damage, and makes
Dexterity saving throws and checks with
disadvantage for 1 minute.
Orcs (17): AC 13; hp 11; longsword +3 (1d8 + 1)

Treasure: Each adult orc carries 1d10 sp and
1d4 cp.
YT
16. Orc Leaders Room
PL
A
Antechamber (g):
Barrels, boxes, and sacks are stacked in this chamber. A
hall leads to the east.
An elite orc sentry stands just inside the door. She
shouts an alarm if intruders try to enter, then
attempts to hold the passage, making a fighting
retreat to join her comrade in area 16.
XP 750
Light: None
Noise: Harsh voices
Smell: Body odor, rot, and smoke
The connected room to the east:

Furnished nicely for an orc lair, this room contains a
small chest of drawers. A copper bowl filled with garbage
sits on a small table near a bed.
This damp chamber is home to a number of orcs that

dont care much for neatness or cleanliness.
Six adult orcs and three whelps (noncombatants)
have their quarters in this room.
Another elite orc guards the leader in this room.

Use the standard orc stats except they gain the
Hacking Frenzy ability and a +2 bonus to attacks.
They also wear chainmail.
Orcs (6): AC 13; hp 11; longsword +3 (1d8 + 1) or

light crossbow +2 (1d8)
Battle-Tested Orcs (4): AC 15; hp 11; battleaxe +5

(1d8 + 2) or handaxe +4 (1d6 + 2) or hacking
frenzy
Treasure: Each adult orc has 1d10 sp and 1d4

cp.
XP 840
Light: None
Noise (DC 13): Harsh breathing just on the other
side of the door
Treasure: Two light shields hang on the south

wall. Under the barrel are the two gems (15 gp
each). Two gems are also under the barrel (DC 15
Wisdom to notice them sparkling in any light).The
wooden chest holds a longbow, a quiver with 20
arrows, 2 daggers, 2 longswords, and a small sack
(holding 6 gp, 40 sp).
14. Sleeping Chamber
XP up to 2,125
10
Hacking Frenzy: The orc uses its action to make

a melee attack each creature it chooses in its reach.
The orc is disadvantaged on each attack it makes.
Running the Goblins

The goblins main dwelling is area 19. If they know
about intruders, you can have a group of 1d4 + 3
goblins from that area sneak out every few minutes
to ambush them. At least six goblins remain in area
19 at all times. If the intruders flee the lair, goblins
from area 19 might give pursuit.
If they are being soundly defeated, the goblins
attempt to hide or flee to the east. Those who
escape go through area 17 and down the stairs to
area 23, where they warn the hobgoblins and join
forces with them.
Darkvision: Goblins can see 60 feet in the dark.
Dirty Tricks: When a goblin has advantage with
an attack, it deals 1d6 extra damage.
Orc Leader: AC 15; hp 45; longsword +7 (1d8 + 6)

or +1 handaxe +6 (1d6 + 5)
Death Strike When the leader drops to 0 hit
points, he uses a reaction to make a melee attack.
Wounded Retaliation Each time the leader is
damaged, he gains a +1 bonus to his next melee
attack. This bonus stacks.
Tactics: When the orc leader takes his first turn,
he immediately makes one ranged handaxe attack,
then draws his sword and charges the nearest
enemy to attack again.
17. Guard Chamber
XP 600
Treasure: The orc leader wears damaged plate

armor and a silver belt with a gold buckle (30 gp),
and his sword has a jewel in the pommel (15 gp).
He is carrying 13 gp. Each sentry wears an ivory
bracelet etched with gold (5 gp apiece) and has 5
gp. The copper bowl has silver inlay (3 gp).
ES
Light: None
Noise: Occasional curse or idle phrase
D. Goblin Lair
The tunnel widens into a chamber containing a table,

benches, a keg, and a barrel of loose spears.
YT
Goblins (6): AC 14; hp 5; spear +2 (1d6)

Tactics: The guards throw and then make melee
attacks with spears.

The area past the cave mouth features roughly worked
stone tunnels that snake off into the darkness.
PL
A
Treasure: Each goblin carries 1d6 sp and 1d10

cp. The barrel holds 60 spears, and the keg is half
full of water.
Six goblins regularly carry messages along the entry

tunnel. When the PCs first enter, they have a 50%
chance per 30 feet traveled of encountering the
patrol. These wandering goblins are encountered
only once.
18. Guard Chamber
Light: None
Noise: Occasional curse or idle phrase
Goblins (6; XP 100): AC 14; hp 5; mace +2 (1d6)

or shortbow +3 (1d6 + 1)
A table, benches, a keg, and a barrel of loose spears occupy

this room, which serves as a guard station.
Development: When encountered, the goblins

cry out, Bree-Yark! and attack. Three goblins from
area 17 come immediately, and three goblins from
area 18 arrive at the start of the second round. The
remaining guards in area 18 coordinate to open the
secret door to area 22, toss a sack of 250 sp to the
ogre (see area 22), and ask for his help. If they
succeed, the ogre arrives at the start of the third
round.
Goblins (6): AC 14; hp 5; spear +2 (1d6)

Tactics: The guards throw and then make melee
attacks with spears.
Development: If intruders show up here without
triggering the Bree-Yark! alarm, half the goblins
coordinate to open the secret door, toss a sack of
250 sp to the ogre in area 22 (see that entry), and
ask for his help. If they succeed, the ogre enters the
battle on the next round. If the secret door remains
closed, it remains hidden (DC 13 Wisdom to find).
Treasure: Each goblin carries 1d10 arrows, 1d6

sp, 1d10 cp, and 1d6 bags of edible food.
XP 600
11
Treasure: Each goblin carries 1d6 sp and 1d10

cp. The barrel holds 60 spears, and the keg is onequarter full of water. The sack of 250 sp is normally
hidden (DC 13 Wisdom to find) in the water keg.
19. Goblin Quarters
Cunning Tactics When the chieftain hits an

enemy next to one of his allies, the target grants
advantage to all attackers until the chieftains next
turn ends. When the chieftain hits an enemy
granting him advantage, he deals 2d6 extra
damage.
XP up to 2,200
Light: Dim (smoldering cook fire)

Noise: Babble of many voices
Goblins (3): AC 15; hp 5; battleaxe +3 (1d8 + 1)

Goblin Mates (3): AC 14; hp 5; mace +3 (1d6 + 1)
Tables set with large rocks as stools stand near a dim cook
fire and among piles of bedding and trash.
Development: If they have time, the chieftain

and his guards take down the shortbows hung on
the wall, gaining this attack: shortbow +3 (1d6).
Much of the goblin tribe dwells here. During the

day, twenty-two adult goblins and six young
(noncombatants) are resting or eating. Although not
as riotous as the orcs, the goblins here make a lot of
noise, particularly during religious ceremonies,
such as funerals. At night, some goblins might be
away hunting, raiding, negotiating with the
hobgoblins or bugbears, or spying on another tribe,
such as the orcs. They leave behind at least eight
adults at all time to watch the young.
ES
21. Storage Chamber
YT
You can use these goblins to supplement or

Remember to subtract any goblins you sent
elsewhere from those here.
Treasure: The goblin chieftain carries 2 pp, 4 gp,

and a sack containing 75 sp. Each skullcleaver
carries 4 ep and 3 sp. The goblin mates have among
them a ring, a bracelet, and a necklace (each worth
4 gp). The pewter bowl is sealed with wax, which if
broken open reveals 273 sp and 321 cp. A secret
drawer (DC 13 Wisdom to find) in the bureau
contains a tapestry with silver and gold threads (15
gp).
XP 400/900
Four goblin guards watch in the corridor at position

g.
Goblins (up to 22): AC 14; hp 5; mace +2 (1d6) or

shortbow +3 (1d6 + 1)
PL
A
Light: None
Noise: Casual insults (from position g)
Tactics: If the wandering goblins have yet to be

encountered, they show up here at the start of the
second round of combat.
Goblins (4): AC 14; hp 5; short sword +2 (1d6)

Within area 21:
Crates, sacks, boxes, barrels, and piles of items are stacked
with little regard for organization.
Treasure: Each adult goblin carries 1d10 arrows,

1d3 sp, and 1d6 cp.
20. Goblin Chieftains Room XP 1,100
The room contains clothing, food, stale beer, and

sour wine.
Light: None
Noise: Piping arguments
Goblin-sized furniture is scattered about, including a bed,
a bureau, a table, a low bench near the bed, and a crude
stand displaying a pewter bowl. Small bows hang on the
wall.
Development: Unknown to the goblins,

hobgoblins from cave complex F use a secret door
(DC 13 Wisdom to find) to steal supplies from this
area. If adventurers stay in here for more than 10
minutes, they encounter four hobgoblins (XP 125)
opening the secret door.
The goblin chieftain, his elite guards, and his mates

live here.
Hobgoblins (4): AC 15; hp 11; longsword +4 (1d8

+ 1) or spear +3 (1d6 + 1)
Goblin Chieftain: AC 15; hp 27; short sword +6

(1d6 + 3) or spear +6 (1d6 + 3)
Treasure: Each hobgoblin carries 2d10 sp.
12
worth 100 sp. Hidden under the heap of bones (DC

11 Wisdom to find) are 6 +1 arrows, a potion of
invisibility, and a healing potion.
E. Ogre Lair
A grove of trees hides the entrance to this cavern.
From inside the grove, the cave is visible only to
someone within 20 feet of it.
F. Hobgoblin Lair
Light: Normal for time of day
22. Ogre Cave
A stout oak door reinforced with rusted iron panels stands

closed at the back of the entry cave. Skulls line the walls.
Several are affixed to the door over letters written in the
Common tongue reading, Come inwed like to have you
for supper!
XP 350

Noise (DC 13): Occasional bass grumble
Smell: Strong, sour odor from the cave mouth or
the open secret door
Barred Door: The door is barred from the inside.

A hidden mechanism (DC 13 Wisdom to find)
allows someone outside to slide the bar back. If the
door is forced open (DC 15 Strength check), or a
knock spell is used to drop the inner bar, the noise
alerts the hobgoblins in area 26. Five of those
hobgoblins arrive within a round, while the last
goes to warn those in area 27, who arrive at the
entry along with the runner at the start of the third
round.
West Cave:
A foul stench assaults your senses as you peer into this
small cave. On a pile of dried leaves is the slumbering
form of a bear.
ES
The ogre killed a huge bear some time ago and uses
its skin as a bed, making it comfortable by heaping
leaves underneath. The true nature of the bear
becomes apparent to anyone who comes close.
Noises here attract the ogre from the east cave.
YT
Running the Hobgoblins
East Cave:
This small cave has a foul stink. In its midst is a huge
leather sack, and a small keg stands nearby. A heap of old
bones lies against the south wall.
PL
A
Most of the hobgoblins dwell in area 23. They are

organized and alert. If they know about intruders,
1d4 + 2 hobgoblins leave that area to systematically
search the cave while the rest guard the young.
Hobgoblins are likely to hunt down fleeing
invaders.
If their warlord is killed, the hobgoblins seek a
tactical withdrawal unless they face weak
opponents. Survivors reinforce the goblins in cave
complex D, unless the attackers are very dangerous
and threaten the whole area. In that case, the
hobgoblins undertake a strategic retreat from the
ravine.
Darkvision: Hobgoblins can see 60 feet in the
dark.
The ogre usually lounges here, atop a giant leather

bag filled with his treasure. A secret door hidden in
the southeastern wall (DC 13 Wisdom to find)
leads to area 18 in the goblin lair.
Ogre: AC 15; hp 88; greatclub +6 (2d4 + 6) or
spear +6 (1d6 + 4)
Development: The ogre has grown wealthy

serving as a mercenary for various factions in the
caves, usually the goblins. If offered a greater
reward than he is working for, hes 90% likely to
take it (as well as the other partys money) and
return to his lair. He is also willing to take a bribe (8
gp minimum per person) to let intruders leave his
lair unharmed. If he catches the same interlopers
again, he kills them without entertaining the offer of
a bribe.
Treasure: The ogres leather bag holds 2,287 cp,
51 ep, 70 gp, a hard cheese, and 658 gp (actually
copper coins with a wash of gold, which the ogre is
too dim to recognize). The keg contains brandy
23. Hobgoblin Quarters XP up to 1,625

Light: None
Cloth and animal skins are piled along the chamber walls.
Odds and ends, such as barrels and crates, serve as
furniture.
13
Barred Door: The eastern door to this chamber is

barred on the west side (DC 15 Strength to force
open).
Finn (Male Human): AC 9; hp 4. This portly

merchant has been whipped into a stupor. He is an
influential member of his guild and promises a
reward for his rescue. (If he is safely returned, the
guild pays the party 25 gp per character and grants
each character honorary guild membership for one
year, exempt from dues, which can help them with
price breaks on mundane supplies.) Finn has no
combat ability but accepts armor for additional
protection.
Anara (Female Human): AC 12; hp 7; Dex 14 (+2).
Finns wife and business partner, Anara is a capable
combatant. She gladly accepts simple weapons and
light armor, but she prefers to wield a +1 dagger she
has hidden in her shoe.
Eddard, Paul (Male Humans): AC 11; hp 7; Str 13
(+1), Dex 12 (+1). These two guards, though
dedicated, were unable to hold off the hobgoblin
raiding party that attacked their masters caravan.
They are eager to take up arms and help to return
Finn to safety; they can use simple and martial
weapons and wear armor. If the party helps them
protect their charges and escape, Finn offers the
services of his guards to their rescuers for one year,
at the cost of room and board only.
Ishrak (Male Orc): AC 10; hp 5; Str 13 (+1). Ishrak
belongs to the orc tribe in cave complex B. He was
captured while foraging in the ravine and says he
wants only the chance to kill goblins and
hobgoblins. If he is released, he flees at the first
opportunity, taking whatever he can with him, to
tell the rest of his tribe what happened.
Gnoll (XP 125): AC 10; hp 11; Str 16 (+3). This
gnoll is crazed with pain and bloodlust. If freed, it
snatches up a weapon and attacks the nearest
creature, including one of its rescuers; if its attack
reduces a creature to 0 hit points or fewer, the gnoll
immediately makes a melee attack against the
nearest creature within its reach.
This chamber quarters up to thirteen adult

hobgoblins and three young (noncombatants).
Usually, half of the adults are out on business in the
valley and surrounding lands. Because the eastern
door connects to the tunnel leading to the goblin
lair, five of the hobgoblins are always on watch.
You can use these hobgoblins to supplement or
Remember to subtract any hobgoblins you sent
Hobgoblins (up to 13): AC 15; hp 11; longsword

+4 (1d8 + 1) or longbow +3 (1d8 + 1)
24. Prison
XP 250
Light: Dim (fire pit)

Noise: Occasional scream and hiss of burning
flesh
ES
Treasure: Each adult hobgoblin has 2d6 sp.
PL
A
YT
A couple of brutish hobgoblins are taunting several

humanoid prisoners, who are chained to the walls and
who show evidence of cruel treatment. Various weapons
and implements of torture are scattered about the
chamber, and one hobgoblin stands over a slumped
human figure. Two chairs and a small table stand near a
central fire pit. A key ring hangs on the wall in the
southwest corner.
Hobgoblin Jailers (2): AC 15; hp 11; battleaxe +4
(1d8 + 1)
Treasure: Each hobgoblin has 2d6 sp. Keys on

the ring fit the locks on the prisoners chains.
25. Common Hall
Development: The hobgoblins took a number of

human prisoners to be the main course in an
upcoming feast. An orc captured during a raid, and
a marauding gnoll that ran afoul of a hobgoblin
patrol, round out the captives. The PCs might
converse with or free prisoners; brief summaries
are provided here to aid in roleplaying.
Alternatively, a player whose character has been
killed can use this opportunity to bring in a new
character, taking the part of one of the humans
(rolling ability scores normally), replacing one of
the prisoners, or being held as another captive.
XP 1,125
Light: Dim (cook fire)

This chamber contains several benches and tables in poor
repair. The tables are set with mismatched dishes, as if in
preparation for a feast. One table, set apart from the
others, is laid with nicer-looking pewter. A cooking fire
burns low in one corner.
The hobgoblins use this area for meals, and its
occupants are readying it for a feast.
14
Hobgoblins (9): AC 15; hp 11; longsword +4 (1d8

+ 1)
Treasure: Each guard has 3d4 sp. The room

contains the following items:
1 suit of plate mail
5 suits of chainmail
7 suits of leather armor
11 light shields
6 daggers
1 battleaxe
4 maces
3 broadswords
2 shortbows
1 longbow
13 light crossbows
206 arrows
14 silver-headed arrows
180 crossbow bolts
51 spears
19 halberds
Treasure: Each hobgoblin has 2d6 sp. The set of

fine pewter dishes is worth 35 sp.
26. Guard Room
XP 750
Light: None
This chamber contains a few ratty pallets, a bench, a stool,
and clothing hanging on wooden pegs set in the wall.
These guards here react to noise at the entryway.
Hobgoblin Guards (6): AC 15; hp 11; mace +4

(1d6 + 1); heavy crossbow +3 (1d10)
Development: If these hobgoblins are alerted to
intruders or attacked, one guard goes to alert the
guards in the armory (area 27). The runner and the
other hobgoblins arrive at the start of the third
round of combat.
ES
XP 125
Light: None
Noise (DC 11 from the corridor): Snoring
Crates, barrels, and sacks are piled along the walls.
YT
Treasure: Each guard has 3d4 sp.
27. Armory
28. Storeroom
XP 375
Supplies, including goods stolen from the goblins

(see area 21), are kept here until needed. A guard
named Thrag is supposed to stand guard but,
displaying laziness unusual for a hobgoblin, hes
asleep.
PL
A
The eastern door is locked (DC 13 Dexterity to

unlock, requires thieves tools). The door in the
western wall, as well as the one at the end of the
corridor, are secret (DC 13 Wisdom to find).
Thrag (Hobgoblin): AC 15; hp 11; longsword +4

(1d8 + 1) or spear +3 (1d6 + 1)
Light: None
Treasure: The stores include normal and fine

foods, three casks of wine (20 sp each), and a keg of
fine ale (5 gp). Thrag has 9 ep.
Armaments are in evidence everywhere, filling open chests

and hanging from pegs, racks, or stands, or adorning
sackcloth dummies.
29. Guard Room
Hobgoblins (3): AC 15; hp 11; longsword +4

(1d8 + 1) or longbow +4 (1d8 + 1)
Light: None
Development: If the guards hear intruders at a

door, two move to that door to wait in ambush. If
possible, the third goes to alert the guards in area
31 and the warlord in area 30. All such alerted
hobgoblins and the runner return at the start of the
third round. Even if a runner doesnt bring
reinforcements, the sound of combat here has a
50% chance each round to alert the guards in area
31. They enter combat at the start of the next
round.
XP 500
This small room contains a couple of cots, a bench, a stool,

and a large box that serves as a table.
(1d8 + 1) or spear +3 (1d6 + 1)
Development: If the guards are attacked or if
they notice intruders, one of them tries to alert the
guards in area 31 and another tries to warn the
15
warlord in area 30. If they succeed, the alerted

hobgoblins and runners return at the start of the
third round of battle.

(1d8 + 1) or spear +3 (1d6 +1)
Development: These guards are assigned to the
warlord. If notified or alerted, they move to support
hobgoblins fighting intruders in another area.
Treasure: Each hobgoblin has 2d8 ep.
30. Hobgoblin Warlords QuartersXP 850

Treasure: Each hobgoblin has 2d6 ep and 2d6
cp.
Light: Dim (fire in fireplace)

Noise: Excited conversation
G. Shunned Cavern
Furniture and junk crowd this roomdivans, a huge iron

box filled with animal skins, a grand table, several broken
chairs, and more. A prodigious heap of kindling leans
near a wide fireplace on the south wall.
A grove of trees hides this cave mouth. From inside

the grove, the cave is visible to anyone within 20
feet.
The hobgoblin warlord and her consorts live here.

They are eagerly awaiting and discussing the
upcoming feast.

Smell: Horrible rotting stench (from cave)
The fetid air here is unnaturally still and quiet. Many of
the trees in this grove, especially those closest to the cave
mouth, are dead.
Even the monstrous inhabitants of the ravine,

including the ogre, stay away from here, because
the creatures dwelling in these chambers are
exceptionally dangerous. Anyone foolish enough to
venture nearby at night becomes fair game.
YT
Hobgoblin Consorts (4): AC 15; hp 11; longsword

+4 (1d8 + 1) or spear +3 (1d6 + 1)
ES
Hobgoblin Warlord: AC 20; hp 75; spear +5/+5

(1d8 + 3)
Lead from the Front When the hobgoblin
warlord hits an enemy with an attack, the target
grants advantage on the next attack against it.
Tactics: The chieftain wants more prisoners to

eat, so she doesnt kill those she defeats, ordering
her followers to likewise take enemies alive. She
commands that captured characters be stripped of
their equipment and sent to the prison (area 24).
PL
A
32. Gallery of Death
Light: Dim (daylight from the cave mouth) or

none
Smell: Horrible rotting stench
Development: The sound of combat here has a

50% chance each round to alert the guards in area
31. They enter combat at the start of the next
round.
Bones and bits of decaying corpses are strewn amid dead

leaves and old branches.
The hungry creatures inhabiting these caves
constantly prowl about in search of prey. Each
minute the PCs spend here, a wandering monster
from another area might happen by. Roll a d6 and
consult the table below. Each encounter can occur
only once.
Treasure: Beneath the skins in the iron box is a

secret compartment (DC 13 Wisdom to find). It
holds 25 gp, 50 ep, 115 sp, and 400 cp. Concealed
(DC 13 Wisdom to find) amid the heap of kindling
is a wand of binding.
31. Guard Room
d6
Encounter
1
Owlbear (from area 34)
2
2d6 cave rats (see below)
3
Gray ooze (from area 33)
46
Nothing
Cave Rats (18; XP 25 each): AC 12; hp 1; bite 2
(1)
XP 500
Light: None
Noise (DC 11): Occasional comment
This spartan room holds two pallets, a stool, and a large
water barrel.
XP varies
16
Swarm Attack A rat gains advantage on melee

attacks if its target is within the reach of at least two
other rats.
Treasure: A jeweled goblet (15 gp) is submerged

in the murky water (DC 13 Wisdom to spot).
34. Owlbear Den

Treasure: Many of the corpses are humanoid,
either inhabitants of the ravine or previous
adventurers who fell afoul of the predators here.
Inedible possessions lie amid their remains. In
addition to damaged armor and poor-quality
weapons, some coins are buried in the rubbish.
Each round a character searches, he or she turns up
a coin of a random value (maximum 300 coins).
Roll a d6 and consult the table.
Light: None
Noise (DC 13): Soft growl-hoot snoring
Smell: Rotting stench (from gallery)
Scattered over the floor are bones of varied sizes, broken
and gnawed clean. A huge nest of sticks and bones fills the
southern end of this chamber.
An owlbear sleeps in the nest.
Coin
1 cp
1 sp
1 ep
33. Murky Pool
Owlbear: AC 13; hp 110; claws +5/+5 (1d6 + 3)

and bite +5 (1d8 + 3)
Hug If the owlbear hits the same target with both
claw attacks, it wraps its victim in a crushing
embrace, dealing 2d6 extra damage.
XP 600/900
Light: None
Noise (DC 11): Occasional splash
Smell: Rotting stench (from gallery) and an
acidic tang
ES
d6
13
45
6
XP 400
Treasure: Amid the sticks and bones where the

owlbear sleeps, a bone tube is buried (DC 17
Wisdom to find). It contains a scroll of protection from
undead.
The air is damp, and the cavern walls and ceiling drip. A
few blind, white fish swim in the large pool of shallow
water that half-drowns the cavern.
YT
H. Bugbear Lair
A grove of trees hides this cave mouth. From inside
the grove, the cave is visible to anyone within 20
feet.
PL
A
Three gray oozes lurk here (DC 15 Wisdom to

spot), or two if one wandered into area 32.
Gray Oozes (2 or 3): AC 12; hp 66; slam +4 (1d6 + 2

plus 1d6 acid, and corrosion); Special Traits
blindsight 60 feet; cannot be blinded, charmed,
knocked prone, affected by gaze attacks, or
frightened; immune to cold and fire damage; ooze
Many trees in this grove, especially those closest to the

cave mouth, are hacked and scored. A broken tower shield
nailed to a tree next to the cave reads in Common,
Safety, security, and repose for all who enterwelcome!
Come in, and report to the first guard on the left for a hot
meal and bed assignment.
Corrosion A gray oozes corrosive slime eats

through metal at an alarming rate. When a gray
ooze slams a creature wearing metal armor or when
another creature hits the ooze with a metal weapon,
the creature must immediately make a DC 16
Dexterity saving throw with a bonus to the saving
throw equal to the armors or weapons magic
bonus. On a failed saving throw, a suit of armors
AC is reduced by 1. A weapon suffers a 1 penalty
to attack rolls and damage rolls made with it. A
weapon or suit of armor is destroyed if the penalty
it suffers is 4 or greater. A damaged suit of armor
or weapon can be repaired by paying half its cost to
a smith or similar artisan.
Running the Bugbears

Unless noted otherwise, bugbears stay in their
respective areas rather than aiding one another.
The bugbears main dwelling is in area 38. If they
are aware of intruders, you can have a group of
1d3 + 1 bugbears from that area sneak out to
ambush them. At least five bugbears remain in area
38 at all times to guard the young. Bugbears are
likely to chase fleeing intruders, and they might
even mount an expedition to kill those who dare to
harm their young.
17
Catnip: These particular bugbears relish catnip,

which can be found throughout the lair.
Darkvision: Bugbears can see 60 feet in the
dark.
Bushwhack: A bugbear deals 2d6 extra damage
on attacks against creatures from which it is hidden.
Bugbear Leader: AC 16; hp 30; greataxe +5 (1d12

+ 3) and predatory command
Predatory Command The leader chooses one
enemy he can see within 30 feet. The next creature
other than the leader to hit the enemy before the
leaders next turn starts deals 1d6 extra damage.
35. Guard Room
Bugbear Mate: AC 15; hp 16; morningstar +4

(2d4 + 2) or javelin +4 (1d6 + 2)
XP 450
Light: Dim (brazier)

Noise: Occasional comment of appreciation
Smell: Savory fire-roasted meat
Development: The bugbear leader knows of the

secret door (normally DC 15 Wisdom to find). If
fighting a losing battle, he uses it to escape. He
might seek the aid of the minotaur in area 45,
promising a healing potion (see Treasure below)
and one slave (see area 40) as payment. If the
minotaur accepts, it accompanies the leader back
by way of the minotaurs cave entrance (I). It
directly assaults intruders, while the bugbear leader
uses the distraction to attack from hiding. The
minotaur is willing to help for about 4 hours before
returning to its lair.
Three bugbears lounge on stools near a flickering brazier.

Skewers of meat sizzle over the coals. A few cots line the
walls, and a large gong hangs from a stand near the
bugbears.
ES
If intruders enter, the bugbears first offer their

guests some meat, then use the skewers to strike
with surprise.
Bugbears (3): AC 15; hp 16; skewer +4 (1d8 + 2)
or morningstar +4 (2d4 + 2)
Treasure: Six pieces of silk (20 sp each) are

mixed up with the bedding. The big chest contains
462 sp, an alabaster and ivory statue of Hruggek
the bugbear god (30 lb.; 200 sp), and two healing
potions. The potions might break if the chest is
handled roughly (DC 17 Strength to bring it down
gently; a few characters can work together).
The bugbear leader also has a key to the spoils
room (area 37).
YT
Tactics: If the battle goes badly, one bugbear

smites the gong to warn the others in the complex.
Rather than summoning aid, this alarm allows other
bugbears in the cave to set up ambushes.
PL
A
Development: Two hunting bugbears return to

this room with a human corpse and 23 gp the day
after the characters first enter this cave.
37. Spoils Room
Treasure: Each bugbear has 1d3 gp.
Light: None
36. Bugbear Leaders Quarters XP 450

requires thieves tools; DC 15 Strength to break).
Loud noise here brings guards from area 35 and the
chieftain and his mate from area 36.
Light: None
Noise: If the bugbears have been alerted to
intruders, none; otherwise, occasional murmured
endearments
This chamber is packed with supplies and loot, including

various boxes and crates, a stack of leather, three barrels,
a large cask, and a small keg, as well as a shiny shield
heaped with dried herbs.
Battered and crude furnishingsbedding, crates, chests,

chairscrowd this room. A big gray chest sits on a ledge
near the ceiling.
The bugbears leader, an especially muscular
specimen, has claimed this defensible chamber for
himself and his mate. He has the same statistics as a
standard bugbear, except his Strength is 18 and
other changes noted below.
Treasure: The shield is a +1 heavy shield, and the

herb is catnip. The boxes and crates contain highquality dried and salted food. The barrels hold ale
and the cask wine; the keg stores oil (about 20
flasks worth). The other trade goods (including the
leather) are worth around 30 gp.
18
38. Bugbear Common Room

1,500
Noise: Occasional moan and clink of chains
XP up to
This chambers floor is lined with soiled straw. A bucket

sits in a corner, and an assortment of prisoners are
chained to the wall. They plead for help.

Noise: Several voices conversing
All the slaves are fastened to the wall with a

common chain and heavy padlock (DC 13
Dexterity to unlock, requires thieves tools; DC 15
Strength to break).
Piles of bedding and old garments are heaped about the

floor. A fire burns low in a great fireplace on the north
wall. Next to the grate stands a black urn.
Ten adult bugbears and three young
(noncombatants) live here. During the night, at least
half of the bugbears are out hunting or on patrol.
You can use these bugbears to supplement or
Remember to subtract any bugbears you sent
Slaves: The warriors are willing to fight the

bugbears if given weapons. The kobolds and the
goblin say anything to get free, but they desert the
party at the first chance.
Liam, Sonja (Human Warriors): AC 11; hp 7; Str 13
(+1), Dex 12 (+1)
Macarn (Dwarf Warrior): AC 10; hp 8; Str 13 (+1)
Shara, Vindil (Elf Warriors): AC 12; hp 5; Dex 15
(+2)
Nirk, Pex, Meepug (Kobolds): AC 12; hp 2
Glepe (Goblin): AC 11; hp 5
ES
Bugbears (up to 10): AC 15; hp 16; morningstar

+4 (2d4 + 2) or spear +4 (1d6 + 2)
Treasure: Blackened by soot and tarnish, the urn
is silver (275 sp).
XP 750
41. Prison
A bar, a chain, and a heavy padlock (DC 13

Dexterity to unlock, requires thieves tools) seal the
iron door (DC 15 Strength to break).
YT
39. Guard Room
Light: None
Noise: If the bugbears have been alerted to
intruders, none; otherwise conversation
Light: None
Noise: Occasional growl and clink of chains
PL
A
A collection of bedrolls and sacks lie around a bench, a

long table, and a water pail. A key ring hangs on the wall
opposite the stairs. The hallways leading east and west
contain more sacks, small boxes, and barrels.
This chambers floor is lined with soiled straw. A bucket

sits in a corner, and an assortment of feral-looking
prisoners are chained to the wall. They turn to you with
snarls.
The bugbears here watch over the prisoners in

areas 40 and 41.
All the prisoners are fastened to the wall with a

common chain and heavy padlock (DC 13
Dexterity to unlock, requires thieves tools, DC 15
Strength to break).
Bugbears (5): AC 15; hp 16; morningstar +4

(2d4 + 2) or spear +4 (1d6 + 2)
Treasure: Each bugbear has 1d3 gp. The sacks

contain grain or meal, and the boxes and barrels
hold food and drink of poor quality. The keys open
the doors to areas 40 and 41, as well as the chains
that bind the captives.
Prisoners: These vicious humanoids are

untrustworthy. If freed, unless otherwise noted,
they attempt to flee, although they grab weapons
and attack any bugbears that try to block their
escape.
Hobgoblins (3): AC 11; hp 11
Gnoll: AC 10; hp 11
Shadrag (Rebel Bugbear): AC 12; hp 16; Str 15 (+2),
Dex 14 (+2). This captive hates his fellows and is
willing to fight against any inhabitants in the
bugbear cave complex for as long as the party stays
here.
40. Slave Pen

A bar, a chain, and a heavy padlock (DC 13
Dexterity to unlock, requires thieves tools) seal the
iron door (DC 15 Strength to break).
Light: None
19
Ragnar (Chaotic Evil Human Berserker): AC 11; hp

15; Str 15 (+2), Dex 13 (+1). This wild-eyed,
muscular human is prone to fits of violence. If
armed, he is willing to fight alongside the
characters for a whilebut the first chance he gets,
he either tries to kill them or, if they seem too
strong, attempts to steal their treasure and sneak
off. When he first takes damage in an encounter, he
flies into a rage for his next 5 turns. While in a rage,
he has 5 extra hit points, a +2 bonus to Strength
checks and saving throws, and his melee attacks
deal 1d6 extra damage.
The caverns walls and roof are covered by tiny creatures.

Theyre not batseach has four wings and a long snout.
These hungry bloodsuckers attack almost anything
that enters the cave. They avoid the minotaur,
though, who eats stirges.
Stirges (13): AC 15; hp 4; fly 50 ft.; proboscis +5
(1d4, plus attach and blood drain)
Attach When the stirge hits with its proboscis
attack against a living creature, the target must
make a DC 13 Dexterity saving throw. On a failed
save, the stirge attaches itself to the target. An
attached stirge cannot attack, but on each of its
turns, it deals the target 1d4 damage and blood
drain (see below). While attached, the stirge moves
with the target. The target has disadvantage with
attack rolls against the attached stirge. A creature
can use its action to detach the stirge on its turn by
winning a contest of Strength against the stirges
Dexterity. At the end of each of the stirges turns
while it is attached, roll a d20. On a result of 15,
the stirge detaches.
Blood Drain If the stirge begins its turn attached
to a creature, that creature has disadvantage on all
Constitution checks until its next long rest. If the
creature already has that, it falls unconscious. If the
creature is already unconscious, it dies.
I. Minotaur Caves
ES
Detect Magic: Powerful enchantment magic (see

Curse of the Labyrinth below)
Noise (DC 15): Faint whirring from the north
This wide cave mouth leads into darkness. Coins and
discarded weapons are spread across the floor just inside
the entrance.
YT
Curse of the Labyrinth: Immediately upon

passing through the cave mouth, the PCs feel a
passing dizziness, a side effect of a curse that affects
any creature (other than the minotaur) that enters
the cave here. Affected creatures are disoriented
and have difficulty finding their way through the
twists and turns of the minotaurs lair. Each affected
creature can attempt a DC 15 Intelligence saving
throw every hour to overcome the effect.
PL
A
43. Fire Beetles
A secret door (DC 13 Wisdom to find) on the north

wall leads to a short corridor connecting to the
bugbear leaders room (area 35). The secret door
into area 35 is not hidden on this side.
Running the Curse
Once the characters have moved into the caves, the

curse makes them lose their way. To keep the
players from using out-of-game knowledge to
bypass these effects, you can misdirect them: Call
out different directions the next time the party
enters a previously explored area, or even describe
the same passage in a different way.
Light: Bright red light

Noise: Loud clicking
Three glowing red beetles the size of dogs scurry about.
Fire Beetles (3): AC 16; hp 5; bite +2 (1d6)
Treasure: On the floor just inside the entrance

are 2d6 sp, 1d6 ep, and 2 gp, as well as a few
Medium chainmail hauberks, longswords, and
other weapons common to the humanoids in the
area.
42. Stirge Nest
Treasure: Adventurers can harvest 1d3 glow

glands from each dead beetle (DC 13 Intelligence
to know). Each gland sheds bright light (10 feet) for
1d6 days.
44. More Fire Beetles
XP 975
XP 200
Light: Bright red light

Noise: Loud clicking
Light: None
Noise: Loud whirring
XP 300
20
Two glowing red beetles the size of dogs scurry about.
A hole leads into the ravine wall near its summit. Beyond
is a crudely worked tunnel.
Fire Beetles (3): AC 16; hp 5; bite +2 (1d6)

If the gnoll guards in area 46 (see below) become
aware of the characters, they might engage the
party in the entrance tunnel.
Treasure: Adventurers can harvest 1d3 glow

glands from each dead beetle. See area 43 for
details.
45. The Minotaur
Running the Gnolls
XP 450
These gnolls have a loose alliance with the orc

tribes. Gnolls that survive the partys attacks might
move to either of the orc caves, and likewise the
gnolls welcome orc refugees into their cave.
Most of the gnolls live in area 49. If they know
about invaders, 1d6 + 4 gnolls might leave area 49
to attack. At least seven gnolls remain in area 49 at
all time to guard the young.
Gnolls like to surprise and bewilder their
enemies. They are bloodthirsty creatures and, once
alerted to intruders, are likely to track down any
who retreat from this cave.
Low-Light Vision: Gnolls need light to see, so
the lair is illuminated (albeit dimly). Gnolls on the
move carry torches.
Pack Attack A gnolls melee and ranged attacks
deal 1d6 extra damage against targets that are in
the threatened areas of two or more hostile
creatures.
Light: None
Noise (DC 11): Loud breathing and occasional
snorts
Skulls and bones are arrayed around this wide, manytunneled chamber in patterns that suggest an intelligent
mind laying out model labyrinths.
ES
Minotaur: AC 14; hp 132; greataxe +6 (1d12 + 4)

and bite +6 (1d6 + 4) or charging gore +6 (3d6 + 6,
target is knocked back 10 feet and falls prone)
YT
Treasure: The minotaur keeps its treasure in a

niche behind a secret door in the western wall (DC
15 Wisdom to find). The door is a huge slab of
stone (DC 19 Strength to open; a few characters
can work together). Hidden in a panel within is a
ring of keys to the coffer and chests (DC 15
Wisdom to find).
46. Guard Room
Locked Iron Chest (DC 15 Dexterity to unlock, requires

thieves tools): This lock to this chest contains a
poison needle (DC 15 Wisdom to find, DC 13
Dexterity to disarm). If the chest is unlocked
without the key and before disarming the needle,
the character opening it takes 2d10 + 4 poison
damage. Inside are 130 gp and 50 ep, a +1 spear, a
staff of curing, and +1 plate mail.
Locked Coffer (DC 13 Dexterity to unlock, requires
thieves tools): The coffer contains oil of etherealness, a
potion of delusion (healing), and a potion of strength.
Locked Chest (DC 13 Dexterity to unlock, requires
thieves tools): Inside are a silver ring, a brooch
containing a small gem, and a gold necklace worth
10 gp, 15 gp, and 20 gp, respectively.
PL
A
Light: Dim (daylight from cave mouth; torches at

night)
Noise: Barking
Arranged along the north wall are stools, a few circular

pallets, and a wide barrel top serving as a table.
Gnolls (4): AC 14; hp 11; handaxe +3 (1d6 + 2) or
Tactics: The gnolls fire arrows at intruders until
melee begins, then two attempt to run to area 47
and alert the guards there. At the start of the fourth
round, the runners return along with the gnolls
from area 47.
J. Gnoll Lair
Treasure: The gnolls each have 1d4 ep, 1d8 sp,

and 1d20 cp.
This cave mouth is small and on a steep slope.
47. Guard Room
Light: Normal for time of day

Noise (DC 13): Faint yelps and barks from inside
XP 500
XP 1,000
Light: Dim (torchlight)

Noise: Barking
21
Crude furniture and heaps of bedding fill this chamber.

Several hides and pelts hang on the walls, and a barrel of
water rests in the southwest corner. Humanoid bones, still
wet and pink, are heaped on a platter in the middle of the
floor.
Gnolls (up to 17): AC 14; hp 11; handaxe +3 (1d6

+ 2) or shortbow +2 (1d6 + 2)
Gnolls (8): AC 14; hp 11; handaxe +3 (1d6 + 2) or

50. Gnoll Pack Lords QuartersXP 1,175
Treasure: Each adult gnoll carries 1d8 sp, 1d4

ep, and 1d2 1 gp.
Light: Dim (low fire in the fireplace)

Noise: Barking
Treasure: The gnolls each have 1d4 ep, 1d8 sp,

and 1d20 cp.
48. Storeroom
Crude and battered furniture decorates this lair. A fire

gutters in the hearth on the southeast wall.

The ferocious leader of this gnoll tribe dwells here

with his three warrior offspring and several mates.
Light: None
Smell: From beneath door, the aroma of fine ale
Gnoll Pack Lord: AC 15; hp 66; flail +5 (1d10 + 4)

or demonic frenzy or feed on the week (1/day)
Demonic Frenzy As an action, the pack lord can
imbue one creature within 50 feet with a demonic
frenzy. The target gains advantage on its attack rolls
but grants advantage on all attacks against it.
Feed on the Weak Each time a creature within
50 feet of the pack lord is reduced to 0 hit points or
fewer, the pack lord regains 5 hit points.
ES
The inviting odor of ale suffuses this room from a barrel

stamped with the makers mark of a dwarven brewery.
Otherwise, the chamber is cluttered with provisions, arms,
and armor, including a longsword set aside from the
others in a red leather scabbard.
YT
Treasure: The food here is edible and plentiful.

Weapons and armor include three light shields,
two heavy shields, a suit of chainmail, twelve
battleaxes, three longbows, and five quivers of
arrows (30 in each).
Gnoll Heirs (3): AC 14; hp 11; battleaxe +4 (1d8 +

2) or shortbow +2 (1d6 + 2)
PL
A
Gnoll Mates (4): AC 14; hp 11; handaxe +3 (1d6 +

2) or shortbow +2 (1d6 + 2)
Dwarven Ale: This ale is particularly potent! Any

character who drinks more than one cupful risks
becoming intoxicated (DC 13 Constitution save
negates; increase the DC by 1 for each extra cup)
for 1d4 hours.
49. Common Area
Development: The fireplace chimney is wide

enough to accommodate a Medium creature and
extends a fairly short distance to the top of the
ravine. If hard pressed, the pack lord might attempt
to escape by scattering the fires embers and
climbing up the chimney.
XP up to 975

Noise: Barking
Secret Door (DC 15 Wisdom to find): A secret

door and passage connects to the Shrine of Evil
Chaos (area 63). It is unknown to the gnolls. Just
inside the passage is a human skeleton with a
broken legthe remains of a hapless adventurer.
Rotten leather armor and corroded weapons are
still on the body, as are a pair of fine-looking boots
(see Treasure below). The skeleton has a purse at
its belt.
Worn furniture, nests of ratty fabric, and rusted cooking

implements circle a central cook fire.
This area quarters seventeen adult gnolls and
eighteen young (noncombatants).
You can use these gnolls to supplement or
Remember to subtract any gnolls you sent
Treasure: The pack lord wears two silver

armbands (30 sp each) and carries 20 gp. Each heir
has 1d10 ep. Each mate wears a silver necklace (20
sp each).
22
Loose Flagstone (DC 13 Wisdom to find): The pack

lord concealed most of his loot under this stone in
the fireplace. It conceals an alcove containing 200
cp, 157 sp, 16 ep, and 10 gp.
Skeleton: The pouch holds 12 gems (5 gp each),
and on the skeletons feet are boots of elvenkind.
Footsteps echo alarmingly in the halls. If the party

does not take care to muffle such sounds, a group of
eight zombies (XP 125 each) arrives to investigate.
The zombies wear filthy red-and-black striped
robes, and four carry cleaverlike axes.
Zombies (4): AC 13; hp 15; battleaxe +3 (1d8 + 1)
K. Shrine of Evil Chaos
Zombies (4): AC 13; hp 15; slam +3 (1d4 + 1)
A worn path switches back and forth up the steep

slope to this cave mouth.
51. Boulder-Filled Passage

Light: None
Detect Evil: Faint evil radiates from beyond the

cave mouth
Light: Normal for the time of day
Noise: Occasional faint groaning and shrill
piping
Boulders, rocks, sand, and sandbags block this corridor.
The cultists purposely sealed off this tunnel.

Clearing a way large enough to pass through takes
several days of hard labor. The passage beyond
leads to a location of your choosing beyond the
bounds of this adventure.
Running the Shrines Inhabitants
ES
Trees are obscenely bloated and twisted near this cave

mouth, which opens onto a deathly still corridor with high,
vaulted ceilings. Red strata intertwined with bulging black
veins run through the hewn rock walls.
52. Hall of Skeletons
XP 1,500
Light: None
Mindless undead roam throughout the shrine,

supported by robed and hooded cultists in major
areas. Undead attack anyone not dressed in robes
like those of the cultists. The priests here can
override this exception, ordering the undead to
attack anyone. Undead in specific rooms might
have specific orders as well.
Many of the undead stay on guard in area 57 but
might be summoned to supplement the defenses in
other areas under attack.
Living residents of the shrine generally need light
to see and carry torches when moving about.
Zombies
PL
A
YT
This hall appears to be an audience chamber, but it is

deathly still. To the south, the red-streaked stone floor
extends toward a circular dais on which stands a throne
set with four large red gems. Motionless thin figures, clad
in dilapidated chainmail and carrying battered shields
and rusty scimitars, stand at attention along the east and
west walls.
The skeletons remain unmoving unless they are
attacked, or anyone (including someone in cult
robes) touches the dais or throne. Then they move
to attack.
Skeletons (12): AC 13; hp 9; scimitar +3 (1d6 + 1)
or claws +3 (1d4 + 1)
Senses: Darkvision 60 feet

Immune: Immune to disease, necrotic damage,
paralysis, poison, and sleep; cant be charmed or
frightened
Treasure: The red gems are garnets (20 gp each).

It takes a few minutes to remove each one.
Skeletons
53. Guard Room
Senses: Darkvision 60 feet

Immune: Immune to disease, necrotic damage,
paralysis, poison, and sleep; cannot be charmed or
frightened
Resist: Resistance to piercing, slashing, and
necrotic damage
XP 1,000
Light: None
Noise: Occasional faint groaning
Red-streaked stone that contains with black veins forms
the walls of this chamber, in which stand several figures in
filthy red-and-black striped uniforms. Several of them
23
carry cleaverlike axes. None of them speak, except to voice

an occasional anguished groan of hunger.
blood. Upon it are four ancient bronze vesselsa shallow

bowl, a pair of goblets, and a vaselike pitcher. All glow an
ugly purple.
Four zombies stand at the north end of the hall, and

four at the south end.
Development: Moving or attempting to destroy

the vessels causes the great bell in area 58 to ring,
and all the shrines living residents come running in
3 rounds.
Zombies (4): AC 13; hp 15; battleaxe +3 (1d8 + 1)

54. Acolytes Chamber
XP 500
Unholy Relics of Evil

The vessels on the altar are ancient relics, used in
vile rituals for centuries, that have absorbed the evil
of their wielders. A character who touches one of
these vessels in particular must make a DC 15
Charisma saving throw. On a save, the character
senses its unholy nature and can put the item down
if he or she wishes. On a failed saving throw, the
character falls under a demonic curse and refuses
to part with the vessel or allow others to handle it.
After 6 days, the character becomes a servant of the
cult and returns to this chapel; if still in possession
of the relic, he or she replaces it on the altar and
then stays on as a guard.
Casting both dispel magic and bless on the afflicted
character has a 60% chance of removing the curse;
remove curse works automatically. Each day the
character remains cursed after the first, the 60%
chance drops by 10%. When the chance drops to
0%, even remove curse fails. Such spells might be
available from friendly, high-level clerics, assuming
the characters have made such allies.
Light: Bright (brazier)

Noise: Conversation in Common (discussing
demons)
ES
This grand chamber is furnished with hard pallets, a

glowing brazier, a cabinet for clothing, a water pail, a
waste bucket, stools, and a table, on which stand a flagon
of wine and cups.
Dressed in red robes with black cowls over chainmail
are four humans, each bearing the symbol of a burning
spiral and a mace.
YT
Development: These acolytes are the most

recent to take the dark pledge and the least certain
of their choice. They might talk to the characters,
but they know little of the area.
PL
A
Dark Acolytes (4): AC 16; hp 11; mace +3 (1d6 +

1 plus unholy smite)
Unholy Smite Once per day, a dark cultist can
call upon profane power to smite a foe he or she
strikes. The cultist can use this power when he or
she hits with a weapon attack to deal 1d6 extra
damage.
Treasure: The relics would be worth 25 gp each

if they were ordinary. The tapestry is worth 10 gp to
the right buyer.
55. Evil Chapel
56. Adepts Chamber
Detect Evil: Bronze vessels on the altar radiate

strong evil (see Relics of Evil below)
Light: None
Noise: Occasional faint groaning
Light: Bright (brazier)

Noise: Conversation in Common (discussing
demons)
This vaulted chamber contains four beds with a chest at
the foot of each, a table with chairs, and a shelf stacked
with tomes and scrolls. Dressed in red robes with black
cowls over heavy armor are four humans, each bearing
the symbol of a burning spiral and a mace.
The floor of this imposing chapel is a checkerboard of

ebony and scarlet. A tapestry on the south wall depicts a
desolate landscape of dead trees and barren rock.
Demonic silhouettes hold aloft a struggling child in the
foreground. The gray sky is torn by wisps of purple clouds,
and a bloody moon with a skull face and a single burning
eye leers over all.
Four black pillars support the domed ceiling. Between
them, just in front of the tapestry, is a stone altar of redveined black rock, rough-hewn and crusted with dried
XP 700
Dark Adepts (4): AC 17; hp 22; mace +3 (1d6 + 1

plus unholy smite)
Cultist Spells Prepared
1st (2/day)command (DC 12), cure light wounds
24

damage.
throne flanked by smaller chairs on a dais against the

west wall. Amorphous purple, yellow, and green forms
dance on that wall, a mirrorlike surface of translucent red
stone. Hanging from the other walls are purple draperies
with evil symbols and vile phrases embroidered in scarlet,
gold, and black thread.
Development: If they are losing, surviving adepts

attempt to flee to area 58 and ring the great bell,
which alerts the undead warriors in area 57.
Seductive Shapes (Enchantment): If intelligent

creatures (other than those loyal to the cult) look at
the shapes in the western wall for more than a
moment, they are mesmerized into chanting a
single stanza of a hymn to the gods of chaos and evil
(DC 11 Charisma saving throw negates). Three or
more voices chanting cause the bell to sound, but
even one such chant alerts the guards in area 59.
Treasure: The books and scrolls, all on evil or

demonic topics, are worth 10 gp total. Good
characters who destroy the evil writings earn 300
XP; evil adventurers earn the same for keeping and
reading the works. The chests at the foot of each
bed hold a total of 1 pp, 4 gp, 200 sp, and 800 cp,
plus clothing and personal items.
XP up to
ES
57. Hall of Undead Warriors

2,500
Temple Features: The dome rises 30 feet above

a floor of polished black stone with swirling
patterns of red veins. Walls behind the draperies
and the ceiling are dull black rock.
Light: None
Noise (DC 11): Low groaning
Altars: The northern altar is black, the middle one

streaked with red and black, and the last is red with
black flecks.
Here stand four ranks of ragged figures clad in red-andblack robes or battered chainmail.
YT
Bell: Forged of black iron, the bell has pair of

mallets beside it.
Two rows of five skeletons face south, and two rows

of five zombies face north. The cultists use these
undead to replenish any that are destroyed;
remember to subtract any so reassigned.
PL
A
Dais: On this platform of black stone stand bone

chairs and an ivory throne, all set with gold and
adorned with red gems and black gems. Evil sigils
and demonic signs adorn these seats.
Skeletons (up to 10): AC 13; hp 9; scimitar +3

(1d6 + 1) or claws +3 (1d4 + 1)
Treasure: The chairs and throne hold a total of

21 gems, each worth 10 gp. Removing a gem takes
2 rounds.
Zombies (up to 10): AC 13; hp 15; slam +3

(1d4 + 1)
59g. Anteroom
Development: If the bell in the temple (area 58)

rings, the skeletons exit through the south door and
line that rooms south wall. The zombies leave
through the north exit to line the temples north
wall. The undead attack intruders who enter area
57 or who are in the passage to the temple or the
temple proper.
Light: None
Noise (DC 11): Low groaning
Apparently a waiting area, this room is furnished with
fine divans and chairs. A golden flagon and nine goldleafed cups sit upon a tiled table.
The cults high priest takes audience here, attended
by undead guards. If the bell in area 58 rings, these
undead move to the temple and attack intruders.
58. Temple of Evil Chaos

Light: None initially, then bright candlelight
As you step into this high-domed space, black candles in
eight tall candelabras on either side ignite magically,
shedding disgusting red light. You can see a great iron bell
in its midst, three stone altars beyond, and an impressive
XP 375

Treasure: The flagon is worth 10 gp; each of the
cups is worth 2 gp.
25
59. High Priests Chamber
XP 450
A large bed stands beside a table draped with velvet cloth,

chairs, and similar furniture. Tapestries depicting cruel
acts and obscene rites adorn the walls.
Light: Bright (lantern)

Noise (DC 15): Faint chanting
Fine dcor includes ebony furniture with red velvet
upholstery, a large bed covered with black silken
covers and red cushions by the northern wall, and a
silk dressing screen along the southern wall. On the
wall, directly over the bed, leers a demon idol with
gleaming gem eyes.
Visiting dignitaries are put up here. Beneath the

velvet cloth on the table is a highly polished mirror.
61. Torture Chamber
XP 250
Light: Bright (fire pit)

Noise: Occasional sound of shears snipping, iron
ringing on iron
The chaotic evil leader of the cult resides in these

sumptuous quarters. He wears a black cape with a red
cowl, and red robes over plate mail.
A rack; an iron maiden; a collection of tongs, pincers,

skewers, and whips; and a stoked fire clearly indicate a
torturers domain. Comfortable chairs line the walls.
Dark Priest: AC 20; hp 65; +2 snake staff +6 (1d6 +

4,see appendix) or mace +4 (1d6 + 2 plus 1d8
necrotic)
Writhing Darkness The dark priest communes
with the forces of chaos and evil. While in the
presence of an altar or other religious structure
dedicated to a chaotic and evil power, the dark
priest can use his or her action to create worms of
utter darkness to seize and crush his foes. If a goodaligned creature moves within 30 feet of the altar or
begins its turn within that area, it must make a DC
13 Dexterity save or suffer 1d6 unholy damage and
a 10 penalty to speed for its turn.
ES
Dark Acolytes (2): AC 16; hp 11; mace +3 (1d6 +

1 plus unholy smite)
damage.
YT
Treasure: Hidden in one of the chairs, which

folds out to become a bed, are 135 sp and a finely
wrought bracelet (200 sp).
Tactics: If he hears the bell in area 58 ring or the

sounds of combat in area 59g, the priest darts
behind the screen in the southeast corner and
enters the wardrobe there. He slips through a secret
door in the wardrobes back (DC 13 Wisdom to
find), and then runs down a short passage and
through another secret door (DC 15 Wisdom to
find from the corridor) into the corridor near area
56. From there, the priest rallies the shrines forces
or, if most of his followers and servants are dead,
makes his escape.
PL
A
62. Crypt
Light: None
The door is bolted shut from the outside.

Six dusty sarcophagi line the east wall of a long, lowceilinged hall of roughly hewn stone.
The sarcophagi are sealed, and opening any of them
requires a round of applied effort. Most contain
dusty and rotted robes. The southernmost one
imprisons a wight, which attacks if released.
Idol: This fiendish statue topples on anyone

touching it, dealing 2d6 damage (DC 13 Dexterity
negates).
Wight: AC 15; hp 44; claws +4/+4 (1d4 + 2

piercing, and enervation/1d4 + 2 piercing, and
enervation); create spawn; darkvision 90 feet;
resistance to weapons that are not magical or
silvered; immune to disease, necrotic damage,
paralysis, poison, and sleep; cannot be charmed or
frightened
Enervation A wight feeds on life energy. A living
creature hit by a wights claw attack reduces its
maximum hit points by 3. This effect stacks and
Treasure: The priest wears +1 plate mail and a

gold ring set with a black gem (520 sp). He carries a
+1 heavy shield, the snake staff, a mace, , oil of
etherealness, and a purse containing 5 pp. The idol
has two gem eyes (10 gp each).
60. Guest Room

Light: None
XP 350
26
lasts until the target takes a long rest. If this effect

reduces a creatures maximum hit points to 0, the
target dies and rises as a wight 24 hours later unless
a bless spell is cast upon the corpse.
Noise: Weeping
This dreary prison contains the remains of several
humans hanging from chains on the wall. The sound of
soft weeping comes from the south. You can make out a
huddled female form bound to the western wall.
Treasure: Hidden inside the wights sarcophagus

is a compartment (DC 13 Wisdom to find)
containing a +1 longsword, a scroll of protection from
undead, and a bejeweled silver dagger (50 gp).
63. Storage Chamber
If the weeping figure becomes aware of the

characters, she pleads to be rescued, claiming that
the high priest plans to sacrifice her in demonic
rites. In fact she is a medusa; the reason for the
monsters imprisonment is up to you.
XP 350
Light: None
Medusa: AC 13; hp 66
Snaky Hair A knot of writhing serpents crowns
the medusas head in place of hair. These serpents
snap and bite at anyone they can reach. Whenever
a creature moves or starts its turn next to a medusa,
that creature must succeed on a DC 13 Dexterity
saving throw or be bitten by one of the snakes,
taking 1d4 piercing damage and 1d10 poison
damage.
Petrifying Gaze The medusas gaze can turn
living flesh to stone. Unless a creature averts its eyes
from the medusa, which causes the creature to have
disadvantage on all attacks against it and anyone
attacking it to gain advantage against it until its next
turn, it must make a DC 12 Constitution saving
throw on its turn before taking any actions or
moving. A creature can decide to avert its gaze or
make the saving throw. A surprised creature cannot
choose to avert its gaze. On a failed save, it instantly
and permanently turns to stone.
Tactics: The medusa tries to convince the
characters to release her. If they refuse, she uses
her gaze to petrify some of them, promising to
restore them in exchange for freedom. She is a
treacherous creature; if freed she petrifies the
remaining rescuers and flees.
Boxes, crates, barrels, and sacks are stacked in the

northeastern corner of this chamber.
ES
The containers hold the temples mundane

supplies. A gelatinous cube lurks among the boxes,
and is hidden until it attacks or is noticed with a DC
21 Wisdom check.
PL
A
YT
Gelatinous Cube: AC 12; hp 88; slam +3 (1d6 + 1

plus 1d6 acid and engulf); blindsight 60 feet;
cannot be blinded, charmed, knocked prone,
affected by gaze attacks, or frightened; immune to
lightning and psychic damage; ooze; transparent
Engulf A gelatinous cube can enter any Medium
or smaller creatures space, and if the cube does,
the creature must make a DC 11 Dexterity saving
throw. On a save, the creature moves aside or back.
On a failure, the creature becomes trapped inside
the cube, moving with the cube, and taking 1d6
acid damage whenever it starts its turn. The cube
can engulf up to four creatures at a time.
An engulfed creature can use its action to make a
DC 13 Strength check with disadvantage. If
successful, the creature frees itself and lands prone
next to the cube.
Treasure: The medusa has a small vial

containing an elixir that can restore up to six
petrified creatures to normal.
Secret Door (DC 13): This hidden door leads to

area 50.
Treasure: Inside the cube are 6 cp, 7 sp, 7 ep, 6
gp, and 6 pp, as well as bones.
64. Cell
XP 450
The iron door is locked (DC 15 Dexterity to unlock,

requires thieves tools), but a barred window is set
in the door.
Light: None
27
Wand of Binding: As an action, pick a creature

within 30 feet of you. That creature must make a
Constituion saving throw (DC 13) or be paralyzed
until the end of its next turn. This wand has 10
charges. Each use of the wand expends a charge.
In addition, this wand is an implement. You can
use one implement at a time. This implement
grants a +1 bonus to your magic attacks with arcane
spells and the save DCs of your arcane spells.
Appendix: Treasure
PL
A
YT
ES
The Caves of Chaos are home to a number of

wondrous treasures. They are described below.
Magic Weapons and Armor: A suit of magic
armor or a shield grants a bonus to AC equal to its
listed plus. Magic weapons grant their plus as a
bonus to damage and attack rolls made with the
weapon.
Boots of Elvenkind: While wearing these boots,
your steps make no noise. You gain advantage on all
stealth checks made when creatures cannot see
you.
Oil of Etherealness: As an action, you can pour
this oil on yourself. You become ethereal for 1
minute.
Healing Potion: Drinking this potion is an action
that allows you to regain 1d8 hit points.
Potion of Invisibility: Drinking this potion is an
action that makes you invisible for 10 minutes. If
you attack or cast a spell that requires a saving
throw, you become visible.
Potion of Strength: Drinking this potion is an
action that grants you a Strength of 18 for 1 hour.
Scroll of Protection from Undead: The vellum
scroll contains a potent incantation in a spidery
script and a faint odor of rot wafts up from the page.
You can use this scroll as an action, and using it
causes it to disappear in a flash of light. An undead
creature that tries to move within 20 feet of the spot
where you read the scroll must make a DC 18
Wisdom save. If it fails, it cannot enter the area. An
undead creature already in the area when you use
the scroll, or one that makes the saving throw,
ignores this effect.
The scrolls effect lasts for 1 hour.
Snake Staff: This is a +2 quarterstaff that, when
wielded by a cleric, can be commanded to wrap
around a target on a hit, transforming into a great
python. The target becomes restrained and cannot
move its arms. It can use an action to attempt to
break free as a DC 14 Strength check. If the
creature breaks free, the snake transforms back into
a staff and falls to the ground.
A second command by the cleric causes the
snake to transform back into a staff and teleport to
its owners hand.
Staff of Curing: As an action, you can touch a
creature with this staff. That creature regains 2d8
hit points. A staff of curing can be used 5 times per
day, but no more than once on a specific creature.
28
ST
TE
AY
PL
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An Adventure for Character Levels 13

D&D Next Playtest: Caves of Chaos May 24, 2012

2012 Wizards of the Coast LLC

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Questions and Answers

What Is This Adventure Testing?

One way to create a plot for the Caves of Chaos is to

The Caves of Chaos isnt meant to be a hard test of the

Make This Your Adventure

The Caves of Chaos isnt a module in the typical

D&D Next Playtest: Caves of Chaos May 24, 2012

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offering. The tribe that makes the weakest gift must

the corpses)or turn the complex into a base for

Most adventures published for the 3rd and 4th

D&D Next Playtest: Caves of Chaos May 24, 2012

2012 Wizards of the Coast LLC

Confidential information of Wizards of the Coast LLC. Do not duplicate.

This is your adventure. Nothing stops you from

to run into more trouble? If they do get out of sight,

Running the Adventure

In Over Their Heads?

No one can predict perfectly how players will

Even the best plans sometimes go wrong, and

Woods and contour lines shown on the map are

D&D Next Playtest: Caves of Chaos May 24, 2012

Some tasks indicate DCs and relevant abilities. You

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section. Encounter areas generally list condensed

respond by setting alarms and traps. If they observe

Several groups of monsters are organized into tribes

D&D Next Playtest: Caves of Chaos May 24, 2012

2012 Wizards of the Coast LLC

Confidential information of Wizards of the Coast LLC. Do not duplicate.

other creatures. You have discovered the Caves of

Dexterity saving throw (DC 11 for those in the

Kobolds (6): AC 14; hp 2; spear +0 (1d8 2) or

Kobolds (8, XP 75): AC 14; hp 2 each; spear +0

Treasure: Each kobold carries 1d6 sp.

Running the Kobolds

Cave Rats (18): AC 12; hp 1; bite 2 (1)

Kobolds are notorious for their traps. You might

Dire Rat: AC 12; hp 5; bite +2 (1d6 and pestilence)

Treasure: The dire rat is a favored pet. It wears a

The kobolds main dwelling is area 6. You can have

Mounds of garbage, waste, and offal foul the area.

Cave rats and a dire rat burrow in and feed on the

You enter a roughly cut tunnel that diverges ahead,

The door is locked (DC 13 Dexterity to unlock,

Pit Trap (DC 13 Wisdom to find): A pit is

D&D Next Playtest: Caves of Chaos May 24, 2012

This storage area is filled with sacks, boxes, barrels, and

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Confidential information of Wizards of the Coast LLC. Do not duplicate.

The floor is covered with rotting, gnawed parts of

find) is 50 gp. The chest holds 203 cp, 61 sp, and