Call from Forgehammer

Forgehammer Introduction

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Forgehammer: A Dwarven Haven in the Mountains

Nestled amidst the rugged mountains, Forgehammer is a resilient dwarven community that has stood for generations. The city's origins trace back to the rich veins of ore discovered in the mountains, attracting dwarven prospectors seeking to harvest the treasures hidden within. Over time, Forgehammer evolved into a bustling hub for mining and craftsmanship.

Economic Backbone:

The primary occupation in Forgehammer is mining, with the Mines of Granite Rock at the heart of the city's prosperity. Dwarven miners extract precious metals, gemstones, and other valuable resources from the depths of the mountains. Skilled blacksmiths and artisans then transform these materials into intricate weapons, armor, and exquisite jewelry.

City Layout:

Forgehammer's architecture reflects its dwarven heritage, with sturdy stone buildings adorned with intricate carvings showcasing the craftsmanship of its inhabitants. The city is organized around the mines, with residential areas, markets, and the central meeting hall radiating outward. The church, now a source of disturbances, stands as a solemn reminder of both religious and historical significance.

People and Demeanor:

The dwarven residents of Forgehammer are known for their strong sense of community, resilience, and pride in their craftsmanship. They are a close-knit society, with familial ties and a shared commitment to the prosperity of the city. Despite their industrious nature, the recent disturbances have cast a shadow of concern over the once-vibrant community.

Racial Diversity:

While dwarves are the predominant race in Forgehammer, the city embraces diversity. Elves, attracted by the allure of craftsmanship and trade, have established their enclaves. Humans and other races also find their place within the city, contributing to the vibrant cultural tapestry.

Reasons for Living in Forgehammer:

• Mining Opportunities: Dwarves are drawn to Forgehammer for the lucrative mining opportunities, seeking to unearth precious metals and stones.
  

• Craftsmanship: Skilled artisans and blacksmiths from various races are attracted to Forgehammer's reputation for exceptional craftsmanship.
  

• Trade Hub: The city's strategic location amid the mountains positions it as a key trade hub, attracting merchants and traders from surrounding regions.
  

• Religious Significance: The church, once a beacon of religious reverence, now holds an unsettling aura, drawing both curiosity and concern.

As the party delves deeper into the mysteries of Forgehammer, they will uncover the rich history, the diverse population, and the interconnected lives of its residents, all against the backdrop of a city grappling with supernatural disturbances that threaten its very foundation.

The Forgehammer Elders

In Forgehammer, the elders are esteemed figures within the dwarven community, each contributing wisdom and experience to the leadership of the town. Here are brief descriptions of the elders and their respective positions in town:

• Elder Rothaxe Stonecutter:

• Position: Head Elder

• Description: Rothaxe is a venerable dwarf with a long fire-red beard and a weathered face marked by the stains of miner's dust. He exudes a sense of authority and resilience, having spent a lifetime in the Mines of Granite Rock. Rothaxe is respected for his leadership and is known for his fair judgments. His house, centrally located in town, serves as a meeting place for the elders.

• Elder Burless Ironheart:

• Position: Forge Master

• Description: Burless is a seasoned blacksmith with a sturdy build and a beard braided with intricate metalwork. Known for his exceptional craftsmanship, he holds the crucial role of Forge Master, overseeing the blacksmiths and artisans in the city. His workshop, adorned with the finest creations, is located near the heart of the mining district.

• Elder Bruni Deepdelve:

• Position: Archivist

• Description: Bruni is a studious dwarf with spectacles perched on his nose, attesting to his role as the town's Archivist. His knowledge of the town's history and the Mines of Granite Rock is unparalleled. Bruni's dwelling is a quaint stone building near the library, where he diligently maintains records and maps, providing invaluable information to the community.

• Elder Beldur Stonehammer:

• Position: Overseer of Security
• Description: Beldur is a seasoned warrior with a square jaw and a stern demeanor. As the Overseer of Security, he ensures the safety of the community, especially in times of uncertainty. His residence is strategically located near the entrance to the Mines of Granite Rock, symbolizing his commitment to safeguarding the heart of Forgehammer.

• Elder Gilda Ironbeard:

• Position: Trade Ambassador

• Description: Gilda is a charismatic and shrewd dwarf who serves as the Trade Ambassador, fostering alliances and overseeing the economic well-being of Forgehammer. Her dwelling is positioned near the market square, where she negotiates trade deals with visiting merchants, contributing to the city's prosperity.

Together, these elders form the leadership council of Forgehammer, guiding the dwarven community through the challenges of mining, craftsmanship, and the recent supernatural disturbances. Their diverse expertise and positions reflect the multifaceted nature of life in the mountainous city.

Heroic Town Folk: Turgain Thunderforge

Turgain Thunderforge, a burly and adventurous dwarf, took it upon himself to confront the supernatural disturbances that plagued Forgehammer. As a skilled warrior and amateur historian, Thrain felt a deep sense of responsibility to protect his fellow townspeople from the malevolent forces that lurked in the churchyard.

• Appearance: Turgain was distinguishable by his well-groomed silver beard and the intricate tattoos adorning his arms, showcasing his warrior spirit. He often wore a suit of well-crafted dwarven armor and carried a battle-worn axe, a family heirloom.

• Occupation: A former miner turned self-appointed guardian, Turgain had retired from the Mines of Granite Rock to focus on safeguarding the town.

• Motivation: Turgain's motivation stemmed from a personal connection to the supernatural disturbances. His family had long dwelled in Forgehammer, and the recent events struck a chord deep within him, compelling him to take action.

The Heroic Attempt:

Turgain ventured into the churchyard armed with determination, ancestral knowledge, and his loyal companion—a faithful dog named Stonepaw. He sought to confront the source of the disturbances head-on, believing that his bravery and combat prowess would prevail against the malevolent forces.

Tragic Outcome:

Unfortunately, Turgain's courage faced a formidable adversary beyond the scope of his weaponry. The supernatural forces proved relentless and overwhelming. In the heart of the churchyard, Turgain faced a spectral manifestation that defied his every attempt to subdue it. Despite putting up a valiant fight, Turgain succumbed to the otherworldly power.

Legacy:

While Turgain Thunderforge perished in his noble endeavor, his legacy lives on in the tales of Forgehammer. The townspeople remember his sacrifice and bravery. His loyal dog, Stonepaw, survived the encounter but was deeply affected by the traumatic events. Stonepaw, now an aging companion, can be heard at night growling and barking, seemingly still vigilant against the malevolent presence that claimed his master.

Turgain's tale serves as a somber reminder of the dangers lurking in the churchyard, motivating the adventurers to uncover the truth and bring an end to the supernatural disturbances that claimed the life of a local hero.

Eldar Harmon Stonefaith

The local priest in Forgehammer is Elder Harmond Stonefaith. As a respected spiritual leader, he has dedicated his life to tending to the religious needs of the dwarven community. However, there are specific reasons why he has not been able to effectively deal with the supernatural problem afflicting the town.

Elder Harmond Stonefaith:

• Position: Local Priest and Spiritual Advisor
• Description: Elder Harmond is an elderly dwarf with a long white beard and gentle, compassionate eyes. He wears traditional priestly robes adorned with sacred symbols and carries a staff with a glowing crystal at its tip.

Challenges Faced by Elder Harmond Stonefaith:

• Limited Understanding:

• Elder Harmond's knowledge of the supernatural disturbances is limited. The events are unprecedented, and their origins are deeply rooted in ancient forces that have awakened recently.

• Religious Uncertainty:

• The nature of the disturbances might be beyond the scope of traditional dwarven religious practices. Elder Harmond may find himself grappling with the unfamiliar, struggling to identify the malevolent forces at play.

• Protective Measures Ineffective:

• Attempts to perform protective rituals or cleansing ceremonies in the churchyard may have yielded temporary relief, but the source of the disturbances remains elusive. The malevolent forces might be resilient to conventional spiritual interventions.

• Overwhelmed by Responsibilities:

• As the local priest, Elder Harmond has multiple responsibilities, including conducting religious ceremonies, offering guidance to the community, and overseeing spiritual affairs. The supernatural disturbances demand a considerable amount of time and attention, leaving him stretched thin.

• Fear and Uncertainty:

• The escalating fear among the townspeople and the mysterious nature of the disturbances may have instilled a sense of apprehension in Elder Harmond. Fear of the unknown might be impeding his ability to confront the malevolent forces head-on.

• Need for Specialized Knowledge:

• Dealing with supernatural entities or curses may require specialized knowledge that Elder Harmond lacks. The adventurers, with their unique skills and experiences, might hold the key to unraveling the mysteries that elude the local priest.

While Elder Harmond Stonefaith continues to offer spiritual guidance and support to the community, the complexities of the supernatural disturbances call for a more specialized approach. The adventurers, with their diverse skills and outsider perspective, can collaborate with the local priest to confront and resolve the malevolent forces threatening Forgehammer.

The Saver Tavern

The local tavern in Forgehammer, known as "The Saver," closes early due to a combination of practical and safety-related reasons. Here are a few potential factors:

• Safety Concerns:

• The recent disturbances and supernatural events in Forgehammer have created an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty. To ensure the safety of both patrons and staff, the tavern owner decides to close early, allowing everyone to return to their homes before nightfall when the disturbances tend to intensify.

• Decreased Foot Traffic:

• The unsettling occurrences have led to a decline in the number of customers frequenting The Saver during the later hours. With fewer patrons, the owner may find it economically viable to close early rather than keep the establishment open with limited business.

• Curfew Imposed by the Elders:

• The town's elders, including Elder Rothaxe Stonecutter, may have imposed a temporary curfew as a precautionary measure. To comply with the elders' directives and maintain harmony in the community, businesses like The Saver adhere to the early closing hours.

• Unpredictable Atmosphere:

• The supernatural disturbances have created an unpredictable and unsettling atmosphere during the night. Closing early allows the tavern owner and staff to avoid potential encounters with shadowy figures, eerie lights, or other unexplained phenomena associated with the witching hour.

• Respect for Town's Well-Being:

• The owner of The Saver may prioritize the overall well-being of the town and its residents over extended business hours. Closing early demonstrates a commitment to the community's safety and reinforces a sense of solidarity during these troubled times.

By closing early, The Saver aligns with the collective effort to navigate the challenges brought about by the supernatural disturbances, contributing to the town's unity and resilience in the face of the unknown.

Gretta Softshoe's Purifying Elixir

Gretta Softshoe, the skilled alchemist residing in Forgehammer, has dedicated her expertise to developing a potent potion that she believes holds the key to ridding the town of the malevolent forces. Known for her nimble hands and keen intellect, Gretta concocts a unique elixir named the "Purifying Elixir." Here are the details of her creation:

Ingredients:

• Moonlit Petals: Harvested under the light of the full moon, these rare petals are known for their connection to spiritual cleansing and purity.

• Crystalized Mountain Springwater: Collected from the purest springs deep within the mountains, this water is believed to possess inherent cleansing properties.

• Essence of Silverweed: A delicate herb with silver-tinted leaves, known in alchemical circles for its ability to repel dark energies.

• Lunar Bloom Nectar: Extracted from a flower that only blossoms during the night, this nectar is thought to amplify the potion's potency.

• Dust of Elderglow Moth Wings: Gathered from the ethereal Elderglow Moth, this rare dust is said to enhance the elixir's connection to the spirit realm.

Brewing Process:

Gretta meticulously brews the Purifying Elixir during the quiet hours of the night, harnessing the mystical properties of the ingredients. The alchemical process involves precise measurements, timed infusions, and an intricate dance of ingredients that only Gretta's skilled hands can orchestrate.

Properties:

• Spiritual Warding: The Purifying Elixir is believed to create a protective barrier against malevolent spirits, disrupting their influence in the town.
• Nightmare Repellent: Those who consume the elixir may experience relief from night terrors and unsettling dreams associated with the supernatural disturbances.
• Enhanced Perception: The elixir is said to heighten one's awareness, making it easier to detect and confront hidden spectral entities.

Usage:

Gretta recommends a communal gathering at the town square during the witching hour. Participants, including adventurers and townsfolk, are to consume the Purifying Elixir simultaneously. The alchemist believes that the collective energy and the elixir's properties will create a moment of spiritual clarity, allowing the town to confront and banish the malevolent forces.

Challenges:

While Gretta is confident in the potion's efficacy, there are uncertainties about its potential side effects and the need for precise timing during the ritual. The success of the Purifying Elixir hinges on the courage and unity of those who partake in this mystical endeavor.

As the adventurers prepare for the communal ritual, the alchemist's Purifying Elixir stands as a beacon of hope, offering a potential solution to the supernatural troubles that have befallen Forgehammer.

The Enigmatic Gravestone: The Marker of Shadows

In the Forgehammer Graveyard, amid the overgrown weeds and mist-shrouded tombstones, one gravestone stands out as the focal point of the supernatural disturbances—a weathered and ancient marker known as the "Marker of Shadows." This gravestone, surrounded by an eerie aura, has become a source of fear and mystery in the town.

Appearance:

The Marker of Shadows is a weathered, monolithic stone with a surface that seems to absorb rather than reflect light. Its inscriptions, faded with time, depict shadowy figures intertwined with cryptic symbols. The stone exudes an unsettling energy, causing a shiver down the spine of those who approach.

Legends and Lore:

Local legends and whispers among the townsfolk attribute the Marker of Shadows to an ancient entity that once plagued the region. The inscriptions are said to detail the story of a malevolent force that was bound to the grave, its influence extending beyond the physical realm.

Associations with Malevolent Forces:

The gravestone's connection to the supernatural disturbances is marked by reports of sightings and disturbances centered around it. Witnesses claim to have seen shadows moving around the Marker of Shadows, while others speak of hearing whispers and unearthly wails emanating from its vicinity.

The Lunar Alignment:

According to Elders' lore, the Marker of Shadows holds a unique connection to celestial events. It is believed that during certain celestial alignments, particularly during the witching hour, the gravestone acts as a conduit for the malevolent entity's influence, intensifying the disturbances in the churchyard.

Failed Attempts at Remediation:

Previous attempts by the townsfolk to remove or destroy the Marker of Shadows have been met with eerie resistance. Tools break, and those attempting the removal report sudden feelings of dread and paranoia. The gravestone seems to resist any efforts to tamper with its mysterious power.

Current Role in the Supernatural Events:

The Marker of Shadows is thought to be a focal point for the malevolent forces plaguing Forgehammer. Its role may involve tethering the entity to the churchyard, serving as a conduit for supernatural energy, or holding the key to unraveling the ancient curse that binds the town.

As the adventurers delve into the mysteries of Forgehammer, the Marker of Shadows becomes a critical piece of the puzzle. Confronting the malevolent entity and resolving the supernatural disturbances may require the exploration of the gravestone's origins, deciphering its inscriptions, and navigating the otherworldly forces tied to this ancient and enigmatic marker.

The Black Vein Stone: Mineral of Shadows

Deep within the Mines of Granite Rock, the heart of Forgehammer's prosperity, lies a peculiar stone known as the "Shadowstone." This unique mineral is characterized by a striking black vein that meanders through its rough-hewn surface. The presence of this mysterious stone has long been intertwined with the history of the town, serving as both a source of wealth and, unbeknownst to the dwarven miners, a conduit for supernatural energies.

Appearance:

The Shadowstone, extracted from the depths of the Mines of Granite Rock, is a dense and formidable rock with a predominantly dark gray hue. However, what sets it apart is a distinct and sinuous vein of inky blackness that courses through its core. The black vein seems to absorb light, giving the stone an almost ethereal quality.

Mining History:

Forgehammer's prosperity has been built upon the extraction of valuable minerals, and the Shadowstone is no exception. Miners, initially drawn to its aesthetic uniqueness, discovered that it possessed properties that made it highly sought after for crafting and construction.

Unseen Influence:

Unbeknownst to the dwarven miners, the black vein within the Shadowstone acts as a conduit for otherworldly energies. Over time, the mineral has absorbed and resonated with the spiritual forces that permeate the Mines of Granite Rock, becoming a focal point for supernatural occurrences.

Connection to the Marker of Shadows:

The black vein within the Shadowstone shares an eerie resemblance to the mysterious Marker of Shadows in the Forgehammer Graveyard. Legends passed down among the elders suggest that the stone's unique properties may be tied to the malevolent entity haunting the town.

Catalyst for Supernatural Disturbances:

The recent disturbances in Forgehammer are believed to have been triggered or amplified by the presence of the Shadowstone. Its unique properties, especially the black vein, may serve as a channel through which spiritual energies flow, connecting the mines, the gravestone, and the town's misfortunes.

Proposed Solution:

As the adventurers seek to unravel the mysteries of Forgehammer, the Shadowstone becomes a crucial element in their quest. Understanding its origins, properties, and potential connection to the malevolent forces will likely guide them toward a solution to cleanse the town of the supernatural disturbances and restore balance to the Mines of Granite Rock.

Solution to Forgehammer

To set Forgehammer right and dispel the supernatural disturbances, the adventurers must uncover the root cause of the mysterious events plaguing the town. Here's a potential solution:

• Investigate the Churchyard:

• Explore the churchyard at different times, paying particular attention to the dim green glowing light, the shadow figures, and the footprints left behind. Use the daytime to scrutinize the church and its surroundings for any hidden clues or inscriptions.

• Speak to the Elders:

• Consult Elder Rothaxe Stonecutter and the other elders for insights into the town's history, recent disturbances, and any known lore related to the church or the Mines of Granite Rock. Elder Bruni Deepdelve's archives might contain valuable information.

• Interview Villagers:

• Talk to the villagers, especially those who have encountered the green light, shadow figures, or footprints. Collect firsthand accounts and gather any common themes or patterns in the reported disturbances.

• Examine the Mines:

• Investigate the Mines of Granite Rock for any unusual activities or disturbances. The source of the town's prosperity might be linked to the supernatural events. Delve deep into the tunnels, seeking clues about ancient rituals, forgotten chambers, or disturbances in the earth.

• Uncover the Church's History:

• Research the history of the church, including its construction, previous religious practices, and any significant events that might have left an imprint on the site. Elder Bruni Deepdelve's archives and conversations with knowledgeable villagers could provide vital information.

• Conduct Rituals or Cleansing:

• Engage with local priests or spiritual figures who might possess knowledge about warding off supernatural entities. Perform rituals or cleansing ceremonies in the churchyard to restore spiritual balance and dispel malevolent forces.

• Follow the Clues:

• Piece together the clues gathered during the investigation. If there are connections between the green light, shadow figures, and footprints, identify the underlying cause. It could be a curse, a restless spirit, or a malevolent force seeking resolution.

• Confront the Source:

• Once the adventurers have a clearer understanding, confront the source of the disturbances. This may involve facing a powerful entity, solving a lingering mystery, or making amends for past wrongs associated with the church or the mines.

• Restore Sacred Grounds:

• Work to restore the sanctity of the churchyard and the Mines of Granite Rock. This may involve performing rituals, mending spiritual connections, and ensuring that the town's prosperity aligns with the well-being of its inhabitants.

By diligently investigating, seeking guidance from the elders, and understanding the town's history, the adventurers can unravel the supernatural disturbances and bring Forgehammer back to a state of harmony and peace.

The Churchyard

The church and the graves in Forgehammer are being plagued by an unnatural disturbance, casting a shadow of fear and mystery over the once-holy grounds. The haunting occurrences include:

• Eerie Sounds at Night: Disturbing howls and cries pierce the silence of the night, echoing from the churchyard. Villagers have reported these sounds, expressing deep distress and fear.
  

• Livestock Deaths: The disturbances are accompanied by the discovery of dead livestock in the surrounding farms. The animals bear signs of unnatural causes, further deepening the sense of unease among the residents.
  

• Unexplained Movements: Witnesses have reported strange movements within the graveyard. Shadows and apparitions have been sighted, suggesting a supernatural presence disturbing the resting souls.
  

• Weakened Spiritual Energy: The once-holy aura of the church is fading, replaced by an unsettling energy that permeates the area. It is as if a malevolent force has taken residence, corrupting the spiritual sanctity of the church and its surroundings.
  

• Overgrowth and Decay: The graveyard, once well-tended, has succumbed to overgrowth and decay. Weeds and brambles tangle around tombstones, and an eerie mist rises from the ground, shrouding the graves in an otherworldly atmosphere.
  

• Closed Shutters and Windows: As night falls, the villagers respond by closing shutters and windows, barricading themselves indoors. The once-active community now lives in fear, avoiding the churchyard and its mysterious disturbances.

The source of these disturbances remains a puzzle, and it is up to the adventurers to investigate, uncover the truth, and restore peace to Forgehammer. As they explore the churchyard and encounter the Small Ghoul, they may begin to unravel the dark secrets that have befallen this once-thriving dwarven community.

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Maylissa Faultmaker

In Forgehammer, nestled within the mountains, a quaint dwarven family resided in a cozy stone house. The youngest member of the family, a little dwarven girl with rosy cheeks and a spirit full of curiosity, became the center of an unsettling incident. One fateful night, as a cold breeze swept through the mountainous terrain, the little girl heard an unusual scratching sound at her bedroom window.

Intrigued and a bit frightened, she tiptoed towards the window, drawn by the mysterious noise. Peeking through the wooden shutters, her eyes widened in terror as she glimpsed a grotesque sight—a clawed hand reaching towards her window. The shadows cast by the moonlight accentuated the eerie appendage, sending shivers down her spine.

Fearful and uncertain, the little dwarf girl retreated to the safety of her bed, trying to make sense of the unnerving encounter. As the night unfolded, the scratching persisted intermittently, haunting her dreams with the image of the clawed hand.

The next morning, the family awoke to a chilling discovery. Upon inspecting the wooden shutters, they found deep and ominous marks etched into the once-solid wood. The clawed imprints told a silent tale of the night's unsettling events, leaving the family perplexed and worried about the safety of their home.

Whispers spread through the dwarven community as the tale of the little dwarf girl's nocturnal visitor circulated. The incident added to the growing unease in Forgehammer, fueling rumors and heightening the anxiety already stirred by the disturbances in the churchyard.

This chilling event becomes a part of the tapestry of mysteries that the adventurers will encounter as they delve deeper into the supernatural disturbances plaguing Forgehammer. The clawed hand serves as a cryptic clue, beckoning the party to uncover the source of these dark forces and restore peace to the once-tranquil dwarven community.

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Green Glow at Churchyard

The mysterious dim green glowing light emanating from the church in Forgehammer has become a focal point of eerie occurrences, weaving an enigmatic tale that both fascinates and terrifies the residents. During the day, when the elders inspect the church, they find nothing unusual—no source for the glowing light can be discerned.

However, as night falls, especially around the witching hour, reports of the haunting green light resurface, accompanied by an unsettling detail. Witnesses describe shadowy figures that seem to materialize and move between the glowing light and the observer. These shadow figures cast an ominous presence, adding an element of the supernatural to the phenomena.

The most disturbing aspect is the aftermath of these encounters. In the morning light, residents discover mysterious footprints in their yards and on their porches. These footprints raise more questions than answers, as they appear otherworldly, hinting at a connection between the glowing light, the shadowy figures, and the unexplained disturbances in the churchyard.

The villagers, gripped by fear and curiosity, share their accounts of the green light and the shadowy figures in hushed whispers. Rumors spread, weaving a tapestry of supernatural occurrences that seem to defy explanation. As the party of adventurers delves into the investigation, they will grapple with the interplay between the dim green glow, the elusive shadow figures, and the inexplicable footprints—key elements in unlocking the secrets shrouding Forgehammer. The mysteries deepen, beckoning the adventurers to explore the boundaries of the unknown and confront the malevolent forces that threaten the once-peaceful dwarven community.

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Game Play Forgehammer

In a small village north of the mountains called Forgehammer there is a dwarven community of miners. They spend their time in the Mines of Granite Rock. Recently they have been disturbed at night by awful sounds that wake them from their sleep. The town of Forgehammer elders got together and sent word out to the surrounding cities and villages that they are in need of true hearted adventurers! 

“Come to our aid and help rid us of this infernal noise!” 

Bring your wits and speak with Elder Rothaxe Stonecutter.

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Upon entering the village the group notices there is not a lot of movement in town. Spotted in one of the porches looks to be a merchant dressed in simple clothing with a stained apron on. 

“Can I help you stranger?” 

When the party mentions the cryer and the noise, the shopkeep directs them to the house of Elder Rothaxe Stonecutter.

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Elder Rothaxe Stonecutter

When the party arrives at the house, they see a dwarf stand up from a rocking chair. His face and clothes show signs of miners dust on his dirty pants. He is smoking a pipe and holding it with a very dirty hand. He is a short man about 5’2”. Long fire red beard blowing in the breeze.

“Can I help you?”

As the party explains they are here to answer his call, The dwarf brightens up with a smile. Elder Rothaxe tells the party that the disturbance seems to be coming from the churchyard at night. We do not hear much of anything during the day. But just after dark the hoops and howls start. We have found dead livestock at a few of the farms in town. As a matter of fact it is getting dark as we speak, so forgive me for leaving you like this. He turns around and goes inside. A few minutes go by and the lights go out. 

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After waiting a few moments the party will hear a noise. It is not a wolf calling, as the howl is more of a screaming howl of despair. The party starts towards the graveyard only to notice as they pass by the windows and shutters of all the houses are closed or being closed. When the party reaches the graveyard it is an overgrown tangle of weeds and brambles. It is hard to see in the fading night but there seems to be movement coming from the graveyard.

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The Graveyard.

As your party of adventurers journeys through the dark and misty forest, you come across a clearing with an ancient, eerie churchyard. The crumbling stone walls of the church barely stand, and the graveyard surrounding it is filled with moss-covered tombstones. The air is thick with an otherworldly atmosphere, and distant howls echo through the trees.

Objective: Investigate the churchyard, uncover its mysteries, and confront any dangers that may lurk within.

Environment Details:

• Weather: The sky is overcast, casting an ominous gloom over the graveyard. Occasional flashes of lightning reveal the silhouette of the church's broken spire.
  

• Tombstones: The graveyard is filled with tombstones of various shapes and sizes. Some are ancient and illegible, while others appear more recent. Players may find clues or items near certain graves.
  

• Crumbled Church: The church's wooden doors creak in the wind. Inside, shattered pews and broken stained glass windows paint a picture of a once-holy place now fallen to decay.
  

• Misty Shadows: Thick mist hangs low, obscuring vision and creating an eerie ambiance. This mist may conceal hidden dangers or points of interest.

Encounters:

• Restless Spirits: Ghostly apparitions wander the graveyard, mourning their eternal rest disturbed. Players may need to find a way to appease these spirits.
  

• Undead Guardians: Skeletal warriors, risen from their tombs, patrol the area. Combat is inevitable if players disturb their slumber.
  

• Cursed Mausoleum: A mysterious mausoleum stands at the far end of the graveyard. Legends speak of a curse, but treasure or crucial information might be hidden within.

Points of Interest:

• Weathered Journal: Near an ancient oak tree, a partially buried journal hints at the churchyard's history and may provide insights into its current state.
  

• Cryptic Symbols: Engravings on certain tombstones or the church walls may hold clues to solving puzzles or warding off malevolent forces.
  

• Collapsed Catacombs: A collapsed section of the church reveals a hidden entrance to catacombs below. What secrets lie in the depths, and what creatures guard them?

Challenges:

• Graveside Riddles: Solve cryptic riddles on tombstones to reveal hidden passages, trigger events, or avoid traps.
  

• Spiritual Cleanse: Find a way to calm the restless spirits or face consequences such as cursed items or additional undead encounters.
  

• Mist Navigation: Maneuver through the thick mist strategically, as it may hide both dangers and valuable discoveries.

Rewards:

• Ancient Relic: Uncover a long-lost religious artifact with unique properties.
  

• Cemetery Map: Find a map revealing hidden paths, shortcuts, and potential escape routes.
  

• Spiritual Boon: Successfully appeasing the spirits may grant a temporary buff or protection.
  

The Church Yard presents your adventurers with a mix of mystery, combat, and decision-making. How they navigate the graveyard will shape their fate and the unfolding story in "Undead Adventures."