The Triumvirates Tale

CHILLY SKULL GAMING

1. Definitions: (a) “Contributors” means the copyright and/or trademark owners who have contributed Open Game Content; (b) “Derivative Material” means copyrighted material including derivative works and translations (including into other computer languages , potation, modification, correction, addition, extension, upgrade, improvement, compilation, abridgment or other form in which an existing work may be recast, transformed or adapted; (c “Distribute” means to reproduce, license, rent, lease, sell, broadcast, publicly display, transmit or otherwise distribute; (d) “Open Game Content” means the game mechanic and includes the methods, procedures, processes and routines to the extent such content does not embody the Product Identity and is an enhancement over the prior art and any additional content clearly identified as Open Game Content by the Contributor, and means any work covered by this License, including translations and derivative works under copyright law, but specifically excludes Product Identity. (e “Product Identity” means product and product line names, logos and identifying marks including trade dress; artifacts; creatures characters; stories, storylines, plots, thematic elements, dialogue, incidents, language, artwork, symbols, designs, depictions, likenesses, formats, poses, concepts, themes and graphic, photographic and other visual or audio representations; names and descriptions of characters, spells, enchantments, personalities, teams, personas, likenesses and special abilities; places, locations, environments, creatures, equipment, magical or supernatural abilities or effects, logos, symbols, or graphic designs; and any other trademark or registered trademark clearly identified as Product identity by the owner of the Product Identity, and which specifically excludes the Open Game Content; (f) “Trademark” means the logos, names, mark, sign, motto, designs that are used by a Contributor to identify itself or its products or the associated products contributed to the Open Game License by the Contributor (g) “Use”, “Used” or “Using” means to use, distribute, copy, edit, format, modify, translate and otherwise create Derivative Material of Open Game Content. (h “You” or “Your” means the licensee in terms of this agreement.

2. The License: This License applies to any Open Game Content that contains a notice indicating that the Open Game Content may only be used under and in terms of this License. You must affix such a notice to any Open Game Content that you use. No terms may be added to or subtracted from this License except as described by the license itself. No other terms or conditions may be applied to any Open Game Content distributed using this License.

3. Offer and Acceptance: By Using the Open Game Content you indicate Your acceptance of the terms of this License.

4. Grant and Consideration: In consideration for agreeing to use this license, the Contributors grant You a perpetual, worldwide, royalty free, non¬exclusive license with the exact terms of this License to use, the Open Game Content.

5. Representation of Authority to Contribute: If You are contributing original material as Open Game Content, You represent that Your Contributions are Your original creation and/or You have sufficient rights to grant the rights conveyed by this License.

6. Notice of License Copyright: You must update the COPYRIGHT NOTICE portion of this License to include the exact text of the COPYRIGHT NOTICE of any Open Game Content You are copying, modifying or distributing, and You must add the title, the copyright date, and the copyright holder’s name to the COPYRIGHT NOTICE of any original Open Game Content you Distribute.

7. Use of Product Identity: You agree not to Use any Product Identity, including as an indication as to compatibility, except as expressly licensed in another, independent Agreement with the owner of each element of that Product Identity. You agree not to indicate compatibility or co-adaptability with any Trademark or Registered Trademark in conjunction with a work containing Open Game Content except as expressly licensed in another, independent Agreement with the owner of such Trademark or Registered Trademark. The use of any Product Identity in Open Game Content does not constitute a challenge to the ownership of that Product Identity. The owner of any Product Identity used in Open Game Content shall retain all rights, title and interest in and to that Product Identity.

8. Identification: If you distribute Open Game Content You must clearly indicate which portions of the work that you are distributing are Open Game Content.

9. Updating the License: Wizards or its designated Agents may publish updated versions of this License. You may use any authorized version of this License to copy, modify and distribute any Open Game Content originally distributed under any version of this License.

10. Copy of this License: You MUST include a copy of this License with every copy of the Open Game Content You Distribute.

11. Use of Contributor Credits: You may not market or advertise the Open Game Content using the name of any Contributor unless You have written permission from the Contributor to do so.

12. Inability to Comply: If it is impossible for You to comply with any of the terms of this License with respect to some or all of the Open Game Content due to statute, judicial order, or governmental regulation then You may not Use any Open Game Material so affected.

13. Termination: This License will terminate automatically if You fail to comply with all terms herein and fail to cure such breach within 30 days of becoming aware of the breach. All sublicenses shall survive the termination of this License.

14. Reformation: If any provision of this License is held to be unenforceable, such provision shall be reformed only to the extent necessary to make it enforceable.

CREDITS

By Chilly Skull Gaming

https://paypal.me/tandumtransit?country.x=US&locale.x=en_US

Content Designer

Christopher M. Thompson

Graphic Designer

Christopher M. Thompson

Editing

DeAndrea Camille Thompson

Art Direction

Art inspiration from the works of: Jeff Easley, Larry Elmore, Jim Roslof, Clyde Caldwell, and more

Water Stain Page Gallery

Jared Ondricek

Interior Artwork

David Sutherland and Jonathan Ross

Cartography

Map art inspired by Mike Schley and others. Image concepts and assets purchased and modified, through picmonkey, by Michael Thompson

FOREWORD:

Thank you for purchasing the sequel in a campagin, brought to you by Chilly Skull Gaming. Your players are about to be immersed in the turmoil of a tyrannical Githyanki Queen, and an insidious Elderbrain on it's rise to power. Some of the details regarding the predecessory title are included within the adventure, and more will be included within future titles. Much has intentionally been left vague. I encourage you, the DM, to personalize your own campaign by adding these additional details. Each installment aims to be content complete, meaning you can run any adventure without having played the previous titles.

ORIGINAL COVER:

Three separate character
profiles of very powerful liches; masters of the arcane arts.
Sir Renwick Caradoon on the left, Siveril Orisys in the center,
and Queen Vlaakith to the right.

Based on the original game

of Dungeons and Dragons created by E. Gary Gygax
and Dave Arneson

DUNGEONS & DRAGONS, D&D, Wizards of the Coast, Forgotten Realms, the dragon ampersand. Player's Handbook, Monster Manual, Dungeon Master's Guide, and all other Wizards of the Coast product names, and their respective logos are trademarks of wizards of the Coast in the USA and other countries. All characters and their distinctive likenesses are property or Wizards of the Coast. This material is protected under the copyright laws of the United States of America. Any reproduction or unauthorized use of the material or artwork contained herein is prohibited without the express written permission of Wizards of the Coast, and the author and artists where applicable.

Chapter 1: https://www.dmsguild.com/product/443830/Lobediggol-and-the-Lich-Queen?term=lobed&

INTRODUCTION ...............................................

PROLOGUE...............................................Page 6

ADVENTURE SYNOPSIS...............................Page 7

UTILIZING THIS PRODUCT.........................Page 8

ADVENTURE OUTLINE...........................Page 9-11

Chapter 2:

WORLD BUILDING ...............................................

PLAYABLE SPECIES......................................Page 13

PLAYABLE CLASS ......................................Page 14

LOCATIONS .....................................Page 22

VILLAINY.......................................................Page 37

Chapter 3:

TIER 2...............................................

ADVENTURE HOOKS......................................Page 24

DRAMATIS PERSONA...............................Page 27

QUESTS..............................................Page 29

PROLOGUE

In the land of Faerûn, the third Mystra (formerly Midnight), monitors magic and magical beasts from all across Toril as she ponders, "What in Ao's name. The Illithid scourge may yet wipe life from the land - as a petulant one wipes it's mouth after eating stolen bread," turning to face her peers. "Do any of you have a cleric or a paladin to champion our cause?"

In the predecessory title, "Lobediggol and the Lich Queen," The Lady of Mysteries watched in quiet contemplation as our heroes confronted the growing threats in, and beneath, the Dessarin Valley. The previous title was set forth with a deliberately vague year, although context could be used to root it firmly sometime within late 1490DR. This was done for flexibility of roleplay and a narrative driven story, should the need arise for the adventures to take a sabbatical before the events of this book. The Year is 1501DR, "Year of the Shining Mythal." Peace settled over the region for a scant stretch of time. But not all was well for our heroes!

As the dust settles from the conflict wrought in the previous installment of this saga, a solitary power emerges from the shadows. A sinister force wades into the bleak void of Mind, left of the Elderbrain Lobediggol. The events, as they unfolded, martial the aberrations into an alliance with: Shothragot or The Red Magic Cult. The Elderbrain may also undergo a Myconid metamorphosis. Alternatively, in this book, you may choose to dismiss the aforementioned foes as the final villian of the saga. Choosing instead to clash with Queen Vlaakith's Githyanki forces from the naval dock, Sidereal Wayfairer Moor.

The Greyhawk Dragon Torthal, born Torthalindrarron and thought dead in the late 8th century DR, tells his Gith companion Zetch'el that the time is fast approaching to disperse his hoard. The soul-bonded Gith then uses boons, gifted to him by his aging friend, to adopt his alias "Raiyanko."

RAIYANKO|:: "A revelation of great import has come to pass. As fate would have it, your dying will have to wait. I've stumbled upon a foul colony of my enemy. The hidden enclave, a mind flayer colony lurking in the Dessarin Valley, will be the unifying clash to reunite all Gith. You'll see old friend. It would seem you shall live to witness both of our life pursuits come to fruition!"

ADVENTURE SYNOPSIS

Esteemed Dungeon Master,

The Triumvirates Tale is the second in a body of works and is intended for tier II play from levels 5-10. This book aims to expand upon the previously embarked upon adventure, while being independently usable and "content complete"; formatting and content design will be such as to not make the previous title a requirement for use of this product.

This book:

1. EXPLORES THE IMPLICATIONS

Lobediggol and his colony have been thwarted. However, this is cause for a new threat. If a player became a bacteriophage, then "The Carrion King's" many aspects gnaw and tear at the player's mind. To introduce a mechanic to this, consider using "Madness" (PG. 258 DMG) and a Sanity Score (PG. 265 DMG.)

The players seek out (unknowingly) a Steeldragon to help remediate the player or npc's condition. Torthal, having assumed a Githzerai alias, will impart the knowledge of a ritual know as "Vaulting." This will seal away the intrusive Psilofyr's mind and influence.

2. EXPLORE PLOT HOOKS

During tier 1, the players meet a variegated cast of Farûnian denizens. In this title - the quintessential points of those individuals will be touched upon.

Assessing their relevance
Recaping their backgrounds
Establishing new objectives
Showcasing character growth

While returning NPCs can be indispensable to the narrative, ensure they don't overshadow the player characters. The spotlight should be on the players and their agency in driving the story forward.

3. EXPRESS THE THEME

In the hierarchy of canonicity, this product (begun in 2020) shares many commonalities with Baulder's Gate Three," and attempts to not contradict it or established Realm's lore. "The Triumvirates Tale" is set in the year 1501DR, month of Hammer, "Year of the Shining Mithal." The themes are: Good VS. Evil, Power, and Life and Death. Additionally this product promotes player agency in similar fashion as did the WOTC product "Waterdeep: Dragonhiest."

4. OUTLINE

YEAR	EVENT
1480	Yshiggol slain
1485	Red Wizards gain footing on Sword Coast
1488	Lobediggol is found by the Illithid
1488	elderbrain hemisphere moved from Noanar's Hold
1491	Tyar-Besil cleared of threats
1491	Red Wizards infiltrate "Lord's Alliance"
1492	Githyanki capture "Stardock"
149_	Lobeddigol (presumed) dead

LatLQ PLOT POINTS	ESCALATION THEREAFTER
Uthgardt Tribes assisted	Lizardfolk allied with the Gith begin skirmishing with the Uthgardt tribes
Zhentarim assisted	Establishment of a Mind Witness network is made
Bargewright assisted	Red Wizards construct Farûnian Warforged within the deep gnome mine

CAMPAIGN MODULE	ESSENTIAL INFORMATION
LatLQ	Establish Villian: Fungal Flayers, Ooze Aberrations, Undead Illithid, or Githyanki
The Triumvirates Tale	The Three Liches of the Campaign are compelled into further involvement
Apocalypse's Edge	Villian Finale: Fungal mind Flayer - Lobediggol assimilates with Araumycos and attacks the continent. Ooze Aberrations - Shar opens a portal for Lobediggol, to the Towers of Night, allowing the Elderbrain and Illithids into the Astral Sea. Githyanki - Githyanki disembark from Stardock and hurl a gargantuan, asteroid Gibbering Mouther toward Toril

UTILIZING THIS PRODUCT

The Triumvirates Tale is an expository narrative. It is a metroidvania module, which tells it's story through the quests. The quests being the medium through which the story is told , makes each important to the over arching campaign; while an idea may not be fully fleshed out in this product, it may have relevance in one or each of the sequels. Unlike traditional narrative styles that emphasize character development, plot twists, and emotional arcs, the developer has chosen this medium of story telling in order to supply the DM with as much information as possible as to what the characters motivations could/should be. This module is couched in the rich lore of a setting which includes over 300 novels, and aims to tell the story collaboratively. The primary purpose of an expository story is to present facts, concepts, or ideas in a structured and coherent manner, often with the goal of clarifying complex concepts or shedding light on a particular issue. With that in mind, the variance in headings and sub headings is employed to break up dense amounts of information into small approximations, so that the product is easier to digest.

Heading One	Heading Two	Heading Three	Heading Four	Heading Five
This will generally be the title of the quest	Essential Information	Content with variance, multiples, manipulatives, ect.	Framework - Focus returns from one topical entry, back to quest. Ex.) ~lore, lore, lore, heading, task at hand	Designer information, typically referencing sourcebooks

When a quest has reached it's conclusion, the following icon will be displayed on the page. Symbol of The Votarie Lurkers, representing the passage of driderdom into newness of life - in its subtle arachnid appearance. Stalking death - with its skull motif. Entrapment and hopelessness - by the web spun beneath:

The following page icons will be used to denote a given entry or quest, as having more relevance to one of four potential endings:

ADVENTURE BACKGROUND

In the land of Faerûn, not far from the Sword Coast, lies the fertile Dessarin Valley. It is in this fated land, that happenstance has divined for a band of courageous heroes to meet. In so doing, the relevance of their deeds becomes obvious. Their actions allow for co-occurrences between grandiose forces in the area; a powerful colony of foreign species, the Illithid, are poised to annihilate the realm. The players surceased their activities, but in so doing, wrought a far deadlier threat.

JOHN SONOCO|::

Well met, Friend! Sorry for the interruption, but let's cut to the chase—I'm not here to sugarcoat things. We've got a situation on our hands, and it ain't pretty. You've just been hit with a dose of those pesky fungus folk spores, and right now you're in transcendental, hallucination; i.e. - your mind's taking a little trip.
Listen up, because this is important. Our homes, yours and mine, are in serious jeopardy. And guess what? Not enough folks are clued in on the danger. There's a sneaky Mind Flayer threat lurking right under our noses, pulling strings and causing chaos from the Lowerdark to Hellgate Keep. They've even managed to tadpole some beholders to do their dirty work.

But fear not, because I've heard whispers of a solution. Word has it that there are some Gith out there in the valley who know a thing or two about dealing with these brain-sucking baddies. Let's hope reaching out to you pays off, because we're gonna need all the help we can get to squash this problem once and for all. So, buckle up, "Hero." We're in for a rough ride.

Multiple choice is a versatile and impactful storytelling tool. Having been presented with multiple factions and organizations, species and persons, "Lobediggol and the Lich Queen" offered players an opportunity to form alliances with an array of npcs with a vested interest in delving into the Underdark, to end the threat of the Mind Flayers. This immersive and interactive play experience culminates in this title, with new monsters and threats for the players to contend with.

* If the players allied themselves with the Gith and Myconids, Lobediggol will be enkindeled by the bacteriophage. Lobediggol begins to try and merge himself with Araumycos.

* If the players responded to the Harper's summons, Lobediggol will be become an agent of Ghaundaur, in his alliance with Shar.

* If the players cooperate with the Defender's Crest's, then Lobediggol dies, but resurrects due to the necromantic practices of the Red Magic Cult.

ADVENTURE OUTLINE

MONOMYTH


1st	STATUS QUO: Be this a sequel, or the start of a new campaign, the players are seasoned heroes. They have warded off threats in little hamlets before, but nothing equal to the threat they now face.
2nd	CALL TO ADVENTURE: A Spore Druid, Barbarian by the name John Sonoco has called the party together. If this product is not played following the predecessory, he does this with great tact: John sprinkles Myconid spores over all the crops within 200 miles of the Westwood Forrest. The information should be given in "session 0."
3rd	ASSISTANCE: The assembled adventurers must try to disrupt the telepathic network of the Illithid. To aide them in this endeavor, The Defender's Crest shifts the party to the plane of Limbo. There they receive additional training, and access to the City of Portals.
4th	DEPARTURE: The party, having arrived at Sschindryn, acquire the necessary components to thwart the Mind Witness communication network: Jasmal Crystals. With the material components in their possession, they find themselves ready to depart the Underdark and return to an above ground settlement.
5th	TRIALS: Multiple factions confront the party at every turn. The threat of death looms over the party as they meet numerous villians, entrenched in the entire valley and within every level of the dread Underdark.
6th	APPROACH: As the party nears a new settlement, they must be leary of the nefarious influences that persist therein.
7th	TREASURE: Satisfied that the Elderbrain Lobediggol could no longer glom up the palaver, Siveril Orisys reveals himself to the party.
8th	RESULT: The party accede to help the Belnorn in his time of need. In return, he will aide the party in the coming conflict.
9th	RETURN: The threat of Lobediggol ought receive a rejoinder.
10th	NEW LIFE: Armed as they now are, the heros - changed the the crucible of past trials - must bolster their courage for the aliances that their enemies have fomented.
11th	RESOLUTION: The culmination of the partys' efforts lead in one direction, of which there were many possible outcomes

TYAR-BESIL

is the central fortification in a vast underground, underpopulated peninsula separated from the topside world by indirect paths, over the varied terrain, back to the surface. The presence of ruins and ancient dwellings point strongly to the dwarven heritage here. The kingdom is characterized by diverse geographical features such as the underground lakes, plateaus, canyons, caves, and hewn structures. Many threats loom in this kingdom. Desperate schlemiels who are, themselves, fleeing the threats deeper within and beneath from the dark and foreboding Underdark. It is the upper Underdark before the players face the perils below

RUNNING THE ADVENTURE: Your players are "Heroes of the Realm." No strangers to peril or danger, the following are a few generic player motivations that do not rely on "LatLQ" to prompt the characters into the UnderDark:

An anthropomorphic shark (Charcarion) pirate tells the players of a Dire Shark siting from the upper Underdark.

A refuge at Tyar-Besil knows of a red dragon hatchery.

It is believed that a powerful necromancer is attempting to summon a Cadavar Collector, from the plane of Acheron, to the battlefield of Dess'aiyndoll.

Factions - Players can choose a connection to one of the five factions: The Harpers, The Order of the Gauntlet, the Emerald Enclave, the Lord’s Alliance, or the Zhentarim. All five factions would have good reason to confront the looming threats. None of them know how dire the situation has become.

Setting Specific Factions

Within the world of Dungeons&Dragons, numerous factions vie for competition, consequence, and control. All with their own unique goals, ideologies, and methods, they help shape the landscape of the game and offer players a chance at perturbation! Shenanigans and story-telling opportunities are never in short supply when the players align themselves with larger operations. This module presents a few plot specific factions:

The Defender's Crest - Gith only

Renwick's Reparators (Triumphant Followers of Reparations)

Kinghts of Samular

The Votarie Lurkers - Aranea PCs only

Page art is that of Shar, Mistress of the Night and Lady of Loss.

PLAYABLE SPECIES

HUMBLEKAINEN (Homunculus)

Oh, the years I've spent gallivanting across realms, uncovering all the peculiarities that simply beg to be put into words. Who knew a dash of unicorn horn and a sprinkle of phoenix feather would do wonders for a layperson's spells? Not me. But fret not, my audacious friend. Through a combination of my impeccable fashion and a few well-placed threats, I've coerced so-called experts to let me tinker with some of their "refined" works. I've taken the liberty of adding my own touch. ~Tasha's experimentation on "Homunculus", pinned in "The Faceless Lord."

Size: Humblekainen are small creatures, standing about 2 to 3 feet tall. Your size is Small.
Speed: Your base walking speed is 20 feet.
Languages: You can speak, read, and write Common and one additional language of your choice. Alternatively, if you were made into a Humblekainen, you retain all languages previously known.

HUMBLEKAINEN NAMES

Most likely you are the creation of an artificer or wizard. In rare cases, such as in areas exposed to Far Realm magic or the Underdark radiation known as Faerzress, a living soul may become attached to a construct. In the former, your creator usually bestows you with a name. In the later, your name is typically that which you had in life. Is there a reason why it would change? If not, keep it the same.

TRAITS

Ability Score Increase: Your Constitution score increases by 1.
Alignment: Typically chaotic
Construct Resilience: You have advantage on saving throws against magic that would put you to sleep, and you are immune to poison and poison damage.
Fabricated Nature: You are considered a construct rather than a humanoid. You do not need to eat, drink, or breathe, and you are immune to disease.
Living Puppet: Humblekainen are constructed with a certain level of autonomy. You have proficiency in either the Deception or Persuasion skill.
Artificer's Creations: You have proficiency with one artisan's tool of your choice.

Subrace: Homunculus have different designs and functions based on their creator's intent (or the ensorcelled construct to which you become bound.) Choose one of the following subraces:

WOODEN HUMBLEKAINEN

Ability Score Increase(s): Your Wisdom score increases by 1.

Nature's Resilience: You have advantage on saving throws against being frightened and have resistance to necrotic damage.

Wooden Body: You can cast the entangle spell once per day (Wisdom is your spellcasting ability for this spell) but you have vulnerability to fire damage. If fire damage reduces you to zero hit points, once per day in such an instance, the nature of your binding allows you to roll one hit die. If the sum of the roll is below the average, you take the average instead.

CLAY HUMBLEKAINEN

Ability Score Increase(s): Your Strength score increases by 1.

Earthbound Resilience: You have advantage on saving throws against being petrified and have resistance to acid damage.

Sculptor's Hands: You have proficiency with mason's tools, and you can use them to craft simple objects or make repairs to structures.

PORCELAIN HUMBLEKAINEN

"ASI": - Your Intelligence score increases by 1.

Delicate Resilience: - You have advantage on saving throws against being charmed and have resistance to psychic damage.

Porcelain prowess: - At 3rd level, you can cast the animate objects spell once per day as a 2nd-level spell. Intelligence is your spellcasting ability for this spell.

PLAYABLE CLASS

Every day, Erzfiend and his kinspeople venture deeper into the Underdark to extract precious gemstones and feldspar. They're slaves to their own lusts, greedily hacking away at the rock until their hands bleed; but it's well worth the effort, they say, for the riches they unearth. These gems, tainted by the Underdark's malevolence, are their ticket to power and influence among the Duergar clans. Erzfiend is no different than most surface dwellers with a sunrise to sunset job; average, dependable, working day-by-day ...the "everyman." - exposition on a relatable "blue collar" commoner.

UPSTART

Creating an Upstart

When creating an Upstart, make sure to ask yourself, "why this class?" Upstarts are a dime a dozen. They are not meant for adventure, but an adventure has envolped them. Conflict, tensions, and escalations may lead to catharsis...or you could be killed in your first tavern brawl. Should you somehow survive past the first monster encounter, why then is this character still a "you or I," rather than a Fighter or Barbarian.

The Saurians would be jimhickey examples of upstarts; seldom to never leaving their colonies. Other good candidates well suited to this module would be: some Duergar, a Humblekainen, or (alternatively) a player character may at any point - die - finding themselves transformed into a Humblekainen. In this instance or any similar, TCoE (PG. 8,) offers rule variants that may be used to implement a well suited, temporary, class alteration.

The Everyman

Upstarts typify the archetypal epitomes of the common person, navigating life's ordinary challenges, joys, and struggles that resonate with individuals from all walks of life; their experiences are almost universally relatable. They are the brick and mortar of society, reflecting the diverse and shared experiences that connect us all.

Stately & Stoic

Upstarts are the backbone of society, defined by their decisiveness and resilience. In the ebb and flow of life, they depend on the bountiful harvests of each year to secure their meager existence through the seasons, come and go. But their lives are far from idyllic; the pages of their lives are often stained with the ink of loss and pain.

Plague and disease loom like specters, while creation and providence threatens to abandon their efforts. The constant fear of maraudins and the lurking presence of thieving monsters cast long shadows over their simple lives. Yet, through it all, Upstarts exhibit an indomitable spirit, an unyielding determination that propels them forward, day by day, as they wrestle with the cruel hand fate has dealt them.

Mysticism

The concept "God of the Gaps" centers around the notion that whenever there are voids in understanding, these gaps attest to the existence of the gods and divine intervention in the natural world. A classic illustration of the "God of the Gaps" argument is where the absence of a scientific explanation is seen as a validation of God's presence or involvement. Everyone holds a flippant, quirky belief or tall tale they hold true based on where they hail from.

d6	TALL TALE
Spellplague Resurgence	In the aftermath of the Spellplague, there are some that believe that transmission takes place, and is rekindled by, couching. Such individuals try to keep 6'ft of distance from others when possible.
Maskgate Scandal	All ruling class and nobility are rakshasa in disguise, echoing the real-world identity conspiracies.
Dragongate Leaks	In (character place of origin) a series of leaked documents exposed a secret alliance between dragons and powerful mages, mirroring the real-world WikiLeaks revelations.
The Prophecy of 1502DR	A doomsday prophecy foretelling the end of the world circulated through various scrolls and books in Candlekeep, paralleling the 2012 "end of times" belief.
Open Lord Conspiracy	The belief that the masked Lord's conspired against and framed Dagult Neverember, after the events of Dragonheist, and staged a coup. Disposing Dagult, thereby appointing Laeral Silverhand, this parallels the 2020 "election scandal."
Web of Lies	an illusionist cabal is weaving duplicitous magic, altering people's perceptions; villagers whisper about nobles who were never really assassinated and wars that never truly occurred. This mirrors the deepfake and misinformation concerns of the real world in the 2010s.

Class Features

HIT POINTS

Hit Dice: 1d8 per Upstart level

Hit Points at 1st Level: 8 + your Constitution modifier.

Hit Points at Higher Levels: 1d8 (or 5) + your Constitution modifier per Upstart level after 1st

PROFICIENCIES

Armor: Light armor

Weapons: Clubs, daggers, quarterstaffs, slings, and improvised weapons

Tools: One set of artisan's tools of your choice

Saving Throws: Strength, Constitution

Skills: Choose two of the following: Animal Handling, Athletics, Insight, Persuasion, Religion, and Survival

EQUIPMENT

As an upstart, you start with the following equipment:

(a) leather armor or (b) a backpack and shortbow, complete with a quiver and 20 arrows
(a) club or (b) a sickle

QUICK BUILD

You can make an Upstart by using this suggestion: Make Constitution your highest ability score, followed by your Wisdom. Optimal backgrounds include the folk hero or guild artisan background.

UPSTART

Level	Proficiency Bonus	Features	Legends
1st	+2	Guile, "Fringed&Fained," Livelihood	—
2nd	+2	Reliable Choice, Legends and Anecdotes	2
3rd	+2	Livelihood Feature	2
4th	+2	Ability Score Improvement	3
5th	+3	Backbone	3
6th	+3	Enduring Adversity	4
7th	+3	Expert Artisan	4
8th	+3	Ability Score Improvement	4
9th	+4	Resilient Determination	5
10th	+4	Livelihood Feature	5
11th	+4	Uncommon Achievement	5

GUILE

You have grown accustomed to a life of toil. At 1st level, you gain a pool of Guile Die, d4s, to represent your doggedness in the face of challenges. Whenever you make an attack roll, ability check, or saving throw, you can expend a Guile Die up to your Wisdom modifier (minimum of 1), roll, and add the total result to your roll. You can expend Guile Die after you roll, but before you know if you succeed or fail. You have a total number of Guile Die in this pool equal to 1 + your Upstart level. You regain all of your expended Guile Die each time you complete a short or long rest.

FRINGED & FAINED

You may not be the most nimble and agile, the burliest or the most educated, but you've paid for all of life's lessons; thats tuition. Starting from 1st level, you can use your Constitution, in place of Dexterity, when you calculate your Armor Class when you are wearing armor. Moreover, when you are wearing no armor, your Armor Class is equal to 10 + your Constitution modifier.

LIVELIHOOD

Also at 1st level, you choose an occupational background from the list below that best represents your livelihood and how you spent your days: Blue Collar, Village Elder, Miner, or Bazaar Worker. The Trade you choose grants you features at 1st level, and again when you reach 3rd, and 10th level in this class.

RELIABLE CHOICE

You might not possess the aptitude to conjure remarkable spells or handle deadly weapons of war, but you are cozy and comfortable with the tools of your Craft. At 2nd level, you select one tool or weapon proficiency acquired through your line of work. This tool or weapon becomes your Reliable Choice; you can wield it as a weapon due to knowing how the weapon is balanced, it's heft, and your general familiarity with it as a tool.

When you opt for a tool proficiency, you can utilize tools from that set as makeshift weapons that inflict 1d6 bludgeoning, piercing, or slashing damage upon hitting. If you choose a weapon, its damage die transforms to 1d6 if it was not previously larger. While wielding the Reliable Choice, you can substitute your Strength, and instead use your Wisdom, in both its attack and damage rolls.

LEGENDS AND ANECDOTES

As an individual from humble beginnings, you have been exposed to numerous myths throughout your life, each containing fragments of wisdom. At 2nd level, you acquire knowledge of two Anecdotes of your choosing from the list at the end of this class description. The Anecdotes section of the Upstart table indicates when you can learn additional Anecdotes of your preference.

When you attain an Upstart level, you can exchange one Anecdote you know with another Anecdote of your choosing.

ABILITY SCORE IMPROVEMENT

At 4th level, and again at the 8th level, you can enhance one ability score of your choosing by 2, or increase two ability scores by 1 each. You cannot elevate any of your ability scores beyond 20 using this feature. If your game employs the optional rule for Feats, Upstarts are not qualified to adopt a Feat instead of an Enhancement of Ability Scores.

BACKBONE

You are finally beginning to grasp the intricacies of an adventurous life and can utilize your Guile in combat. Starting at 5th level, upon a successful hit with your Reliable Choice, you can utilize Guile Die, roll them, and add the outcome to your damage roll.

Your rugged life has also toughened your resilience. Whenever you endure damage, using your reaction, you may roll a Guile Die and reduce the damage by an amount equivalent to your Die roll plus your Constitution modifier (minimum of +1).

ENDURING ADVERSITY

The school of hard-knocks has taught you how to take one on the chin; commencing at the 6th level, when you are exposed to a spell or another effect that permits you to make a Constitution or Wisdom saving throw to only incur half damage, you sustain no damage upon a successful saving throw and only half damage upon a failure.

EXPERT ARTISAN

You can impart your straightforward wisdom to others. Starting at the 7th level, when a creature within 30 feet, capable of hearing you, attempts an ability check or saving throw, you can utilize your reaction to add your Wisdom modifier (minimum of +1) to his or her roll. You can perform this trait a number of times equal to your Wisdom modifier (minimum of once), and you regain all of your depleted uses once you complete a long rest.

RESILIENT DETERMINATION

Adventuring has fortified your resolve; you can endure any adversity you may encounter. Beginning at the 9th level, when you commence your turn with no Guile Die remaining in your pool, you instantly regain one expended Die.

UNCOMMON ACHIEVMENT

You have reached the highest point that an Upstart can. Upon achieving 11th level - your Guile Dice transform into d6s. This module concludes at Level 10, after whih time the designer advises the player (with the guidance of the DM) to use the rule variants found in TCoE, to adopt a new and more appropriate class. This scenario is ideal if a "Humblekainen" detaches it's soul from it's construct, and into a new body.

LIVELIHOOD

BLUE COLLAR

Robust as cattle, workers are any Upstart who utilize their skills to maintain their homestead's operations. Carpenters, woodsmen, masons, and blacksmiths all fall under the category of blue-collar workers. Typically, workers in their chosen tools (and not much else), a genuine worker isn't hesitant to put their physique at risk to see a task to completion. When a challenging job needs to be done accurately, a blue collar worker is the Upstart you want on your team.

STURDY

1st-level Blue-Collar feature

Devoting your days to manual labor has toughened you, much like the mighty beasts of the fields. At 1st level, and each time you advance a level in this class, both your hit points and maximum hit points increase by 1

You also qualify as one size larger when determining your carrying capacity and the weight you can push, drag, or lift.

AUTHENTIC CRAFTSMEN

1st-level Blue-Collar feature

As a blue-collar, physical tools are very much in your wheel-house. You gain proficiency with mauls, sledgehammers, hatchets, and shovels. However, the weapons you have honed your skills with resemble simple tools rather than true weapons of war.

You also acquire proficiency with two of the following tools: carpenter's, mason's, smith's, or woodcarver's tools. When you make an ability check utilizing these tool proficiencies, you can double your proficiency bonus for the roll.

BUILDING

3rd-level Blue-Collar feature

You can ply your fluency of construction to fabricate uncomplicated structures using wood, stone, and iron. While you have access to your Authentic Craftsman tools and the corresponding materials, you can construct fortifications. For every short rest, you can create one basic Medium structure primarily made from wood or stone. These structures possess an Armor Class and hit points equal to 10 + your Upstart level.

FOREMAN

10th-level Blue-Collar feature

You've studied to show yourself approved; a worker that needeth not be skeptical. While you have access to your Authentic Craftsman tools and the relevant materials, you can dedicate 10 minutes to replicate the effects of the passwall or wall of stone spell.

Any

structures you create using this feature are non-magical and enduring in nature. Once you employ this feature to emulate the effects of either spell, you must complete a short or long rest before using it again. If you have no uses of this feature remaining, you can utilize 5 Guile Die to use this feature once more.

WORK FORCE

Blue Collars are one of the most prevalent types of Upstarts found in the world, and their selection of Authentic Craftsman tools determines the type of labor they undertake:

Carpenter's: Wheelwrights, architects, shindler, and carpenters.

Mason's: Glazers, bricklayers, dredgers, builders, and stonemasons.

Smith's: Blacksmiths, locksmiths, and armorers.

Woodcarver's: Alderers, fowler, basket weavers, lumberjacks.

ELDERLY

You are a weathered elder of your town or village who has witnessed many winters. Although, "you're only as old as you feel," you are easily one of the oldest settlers from whence you came. With your many years comes wisdom, but also a strong aversion to anything that appears to be modern.

GEEZER

1st-level Elderly feature

Over the years, you've accumulated a unique amount of rural wisdom. You gain proficiency in one type of artisan's tools of your choice, and you learn to speak a number of languages equal to your Wisdom modifier (minimum of 1).

FULL-OF-FACTS

1st-level Elderly feature

You have acquired a plethora of knowledge over the years. You can't resist sharing this wisdom, even when it's not sought. You gain proficiency in History, and when you make an Intelligence (History) check, you can add your Wisdom modifier (minimum of +1) to your roll. Additionally, you learn the guidance spell, and Wisdom serves as your spellcasting modifier for it.

HEDGE MAGE

3rd-level Elderly feature

You can tap into your discernment of the natural world to perform minor magical spells, akin to how a Druid does:

Spell Slots: At 3rd level, you acquire two 1st-level magic slots. To cast a Druid spell you have readied, you utilize one of these magic slots. You recover all magic slots upon completing a short or long. As you progress in levels, your magic slots increase in level, as indicated on the Elderly Magic table.

Readied Spells: After completing a long rest, you compile a list of spells available for you to cast from the Druid spell list. You can prepare a number of spells equal to your Wisdom modifier + half your Upstart level. The spells you prepare must be of a level for which you have magic slots.

Spellcasting Ability: Wisdom is your proficiency for your Druid spells, using the wisdom you have amassed over your numerous years to execute your spells. You utilize your Wisdom when a spell mentions your spellcasting proficiency, determining the save DC, or making a spell attack roll.

Spell Save DC = 8 + your proficiency bonus + your Wisdom modifier

Spell attack modifier = your proficiency bonus + your Wisdom modifier

ELDER MAGIC

LEVEL	SPELL SLOTS	SLOT LEVEL
3rd	2	1st
4th	2	1st
5th	2	1st
6th	2	1st
7th	2	2nd
8th	2	2nd
9th	2	2nd
10th	3	2nd
11th	3	2nd

RURAL WISDOM

10th-level Elderly feature

Your magic is more adaptable than that of conventionally trained mages. You can alter your list of prepared Druid spells each time you conclude a short or long rest.

MINER

Tough as Toril, miners are Upstarts who dedicate their skills to extract valuable resources from the depths of the Toril. Whether they quarry the mountains or delve into the Underdark, miners work to harvest minerals and ores. Often equipped with sturdy tools, they are unafraid to face the challenges of the subterranean world. When you need someone to extract hidden treasures, a miner is the Upstart you want by your side.

SOLID

1st-level Miner feature

Forfeiting your days toiling in the depths has made you robust and resilient like the rocks you work among. At 1st level, each time an attempt is made to push you down or knock you prone, you may reroll for the attempt. You can either use the roll yourself, or force the other person in this contested roll to use the new roll. You also count as one size larger when determining your carrying capacity and the weight you can push, drag, or lift.

ROCK and AWE

1st-level Miner feature

Your experience in mining grants you an uncanny ability to extract valuable ores efficiently. You can extract twice the usual amount of ore within the same timeframe when mining. Additionally, you can identify the quality and potential value of extracted ores with remarkable accuracy, allowing you to make informed decisions about their use or trade.

You also gain proficiency with two of the following tools: blacksmith's, gemcutter's, prospector's, or jeweler's tools. When you make an ability check that uses these tool proficiencies, you can add double your proficiency bonus to your roll.

GRID ROCK

3rd-level Miner feature You possess a wealth of knowledge about geological formations, which allows you to access the plentiful natural resources in your vicinity and find areas of relative safety. When you're in underground environments or near mineral-rich areas, you can use your action to sense the presence of valuable resources - such as ores, gemstones, or other precious materials - within a radius of 100 feet, as well as areas free of threats. This ability allows you to pinpoint the location and approximate quantity of these valuable resources, aiding you in your mining endeavors. You can use this feature a number of times equal to your Wisdom modifier (minimum of once), regaining all uses after completing a long rest.

TERRAFORGE

10th-level Miner feature You are so deeply yoked with Toril, you have the ability to temporarily infuse your weapons or those of your allies with the raw power of the planet. As a bonus action, you can touch a: rock, gem, or mineral - to a weapon you are holding or that an ally is holding, imbuing it with the essence of your resource for 1 minute.

The weapon deals an additional 1d6 bludgeoning damage on a hit.
The target gains resistance to bludgeoning, piercing, and slashing damage from non-magical attacks (touching armor).

Once you use this feature, you can't use it again until you finish a short or long rest, unless you expend 5 Guile Die to use it again.

BAZAAR WORKER

Highly adaptable, bazaar workers are Upstarts whose social graces make them skilled to facilitate the operations of shops and businesses. Shopkeepers, cashiers, salespeople, and customer service representatives all fall under this category. Proficient in handling transactions and managing the demands of diverse customers, a bazaar worker has the flexibility to innovate in the changing atmospheres his or her customers may bring with them. When you need someone to manage the hustle and bustle of a store or business, a bazaar worker is the Upstart you want in your team.

INFAIRYMATION

1st-level Bazaar Worker

When you need to convince a rough individual of something, your silver tongue could sell holy water to an abyssal demon. As an action, you can spend Guile Die to mimic the effect of one of the spells on the table below. It specifies how many Dice you must spend to mimic each spell.

Guile Die	Spell Effect
1	friends, guidance, vicious mockery
3	charm person, heroism, hideous laughter
6	calm emotions, enthrall, suggestion
8	catnap, enemies abound

Saving Throws: Some Infairymation spells require your target to make a saving throw to resist their effects. Based on your Wisdom, their saving throw DC is calculated as follows:

Infairymation save DC = 8 + your proficiency bonus + your Wisdom modifier.

NEVER MEET A STRANGER

1st-level Bazaar Worker feature

Those in your line of work are often free therapy for others. When you choose this Livelihood you gain proficiency in Insight and: brewer's supplies, and cook's utensils. Whenever you make an ability check with these proficiencies, you can treat a roll of 7 or lower on the d20 as a 10.

TARADIDDLE

3rd-level Bazaar Worker feature

You are a collector of people's stories, though you do have trouble remembering them all. Whenever you finish a long rest in a tavern or inn, you can replace one Legend and Anecdote with another of your choice.

FOOD BABY

10th-level Bazaar Worker feature

Throughout generations, much importance has been placed on camaraderie and bonding done over shared meals. You and any creature that completes a short or long rest with you, after sharing: a meal, a drink, or a short "role-play scenario," gains temporary hit points equal to your Upstart level + your Wisdom modifier (minimum of 1).

While a creature has these temporary hit points, it cannot be charmed or frightened, and it gains a bonus to its saving throws equal to your Wisdom modifier (minimum of +1). Finally, the Guile Die cost of your Infairymation spell effects are reduced by 1 (to a minimum cost of 0 Guile Dice).

Legends and Anecdotes

Here are various Legends and Anecdotes that an Upstart can acquaint themselves with. Whenever an Upstart gains a level in this class, they can exchange one known Legend or Anecdote with another of their choosing, relinquishing all the skills and advantages of the replaced tale.

The Tale of the Mighty Leviathan

Once upon a time, a seasoned sailor shared the gripping tale of their encounter with a monstrous sea creature, a leviathan. An Upstart gains proficiency in water related concentration checks, if they take damage whilst holding their breath or are casting a spell, whilst underwater. Additionally, when near a body of water, they can sustain themselves and their companions for a day per their Wisdom (survival) modifier, per class level. Moreover, once a day, they can regale willing listeners with this story, giving them advantage on their next survival check.

The Tale of the Enchanting Minstrel

From their earliest days, the Upstart was enthralled by the story of a wandering Bard whose melodies celebrated the valor of heroes. An Upstart that knows this anecdote has advantage on saving throws required by a spell cast, with an instrument as it's magical focus, a number of times equal to his or her Upstart class level.

The Tale of the Cunning Deceiver

Enveloped in the narrative of a crafty trickster who outwitted an entire village, the Upstart learns the art of deception. Proficiency in Deception and disguise kits are gained, allowing Wisdom (Deception) checks instead of the usual Charisma (Deception) checks. Additionally, they can create a dual identity during a long rest, complete with a disguise, enabling them to assume this persona.

The Tale of the Roaming Forester

Inspired by tales of town-protecting woodsmen, the Upstart gains proficiency with shortbows and their choice of Perception or Survival. Furthermore, in bountiful lands, they can successfully hunt enough wild game to sustain up to three medium sized creatures.

The Tale of Chauntea's Chosen

Passed down through generations, the legend of a courageous farmer who stood against a great oppressor shapes the Upstarts's resolve. If the Upstart has eaten consumables that exclude any meat (vegetarian) for the day, he or she may - for a number of times equal to half of their Upstart level - treat any roll of 19 as a critical success and reroll any rolls of 1.

The Tale of the Fearsome Mercenary Troupe

Inspired by tales of a brutal mercenary company, the Upstart gains proficiency in shields and a chosen gaming set. They learn enough to convincingly impersonate a member of this notorious group, reaping the associated benefits.

The Tale of the Eerie Specter

Elders in the village shared chilling stories of malevolent monsters haunting the graveyard. Embracing this tale imparts proficiency in Religion and Intimidation. Wisdom (Intimidation) checks can be augmented using this tale. Moreover, when recalling information about evil or undead creatures or necromancy magic, they can add their Wisdom modifier to Intelligence checks.

The Tale of the Midnight Pilferer

A neighbor once regaled the Upstart with the tale of a legendary thief. Whenever they enter a new settlement, they can discern dens of criminal activity or thieves' guilds. Additionally, proficiency in thieves' tools is granted, alongside the ability to comprehend, read, and communicate in Thieves' Cant.

Original map produced by Mike Schley

Battle For The Underdark

Amid the sunlit lands of Faerûn, folktales echo in taverns about narrow passageways perfect for Halflings to slip through. The Underdark! Lightless, foreboding, and home to all manner of irreverent and blasphemous species. Cave systems open up to mirror miniature versions of the surface; with their hills, valleys, underground rivers, and lakes. The denizens of this domain traverse the walls and ceilings as easily as one might the ground. They make use of natural or magical flight, levi-tation, or even beastial mounts like giant spiders and certain lizards.

The Underdark harbors primeval mysteries and endless warfare. It is a world hidden from the knowledge of commoners, where cruel masters rule over hopeless slaves and monstrous races (that predate humans) thrive. A dreary realm of fungus, rot, and slime. The Underdark's reputation is so dire that mothers warn their children to behave, fearing that dark elves might abduct them.

With Tymora's favor, fortunate merchants have found profitable trade but many others have met dreadful fates. This dark realm consists of three levels. The upper Underdark (Upperdark) lies closer to the surface, facilitating interactions with surface races. The middle Underdark (Middledark) views surface dwellers as property or food, while the lower Underdark (Lowerdark) is an astonishingly strange place with peculiar societies hostile to outsiders.

Unlike the surface world's safe havens illuminated by daylight and civilization, the Underdark conceals peril at every turn. Dark tunnels and lightless seas witness fierce competitions for dominance among the illithids, drow, and aboleths. These rivals employ slaves, ancient magic, and mind-shattering psionics in their struggle for control over the labyrinthine tunnel systems, caverns, and voids scattered beneath the realm of Faerûn.

This book offers a fantastic realm for your characters to explore, and within these pages, you'll find tools to craft thrilling adventures in the depths, encompassing tunnel systems, extended caverns, vaults, gaps, and nodes that riddle Toril beneath Faerûn.

UPPERDARK

Tyar-Besil

stands as a central bastion within Upperdark. Separated from the surface world by meandering pathways and varied terrain, she bears the indelible marks of dwarven heritage, evident in the remnants of ancient dwellings scattered across the landscape. A strategically defensible location, it boasts a diverse topography comprising: lakes, plateaus, canyons, caves, and structures. A powerful lich reigns with magical aptitude, establishing an unchallenged order that none dare contest, bringing stability to the tumultuous subterranean expanse.

MIDDLEDARK

Baelnorn's Hollow

has ancient stone walls, weathered and scarred by time, that whisper eerie tales of the forgotten society of the elves of Eaerlann.
The temple's entrance beckons travelers, an enticing maw of darkness ready to consume the soul. As the air grows heavy and suffocating, married with the malodor of dust and mold and stillness. Flickering torches line the corridor - their dim flames offering little comfort or warmth.

In the western expanse, ensconced fifty miles from the formidable fortress-city, lies the dwelling of Siveril Orisys. An intriguing figure, he stands as an undying Wardnorn, an esteemed guardian of the Elven populace of Eaerlann. Though known amongst the Lore Keepers of the Emerald Enclave, tracing information about him requires dedicated research, often spanning several tendays. However, the very artifact that he dedicates himself to safeguarding has faded into the annals of time, shrouded in obscurity.

Within his domain, Siveril Orisys stands resolute, a sentinel of great significance. Before him rests an awe-inspiring sphere, radiant like the sun itself. This globe, spanning a remarkable 150 feet in diameter, holds within its heart the life giving waters of the Saurian colony, swirling and churning beneath its luminous surface. It is itself the very thing that makes for a comfortable life to their race (a substitution for Sol in Toril's Underdark.) A spectacle that demands attention, this wondrous artifact is a testament to his dedication and the magnitude of the forces he safeguards.

The Mythal, a manifestation of both power and mystique. A force that Siveril Orisys tirelessly shields, its presence is undeniable and its significance vast. As it casts its mesmerizing glow, it intertwines with the guardianship of the undying Wardnorn, creating a tableau of grandeur and an enigma that resonates through the ages.

Terra Firma of Ooze

The path leading to Shothragot's sanctuary winds through gloomy halls and eerie corridors, shrouded in fetid mists and tainted with acrid-smelling slime that oozes down the walls, gathering into noxious puddles and pools. These ominous manifestations are most intense near the chambers where sacrificial rituals unfold. The foul stench saturates the air, overpowering the senses of those who venture near, as though they are submerged in a wretched sea of decay. Unbeknownst to many, the sinister presence of Shothragot's sanctuary lies hidden beneath the once vibrant High Forest, its malevolent influence seeping into the roots of Turlang The Treant, causing the forest's gradual decay and the weakening of the ancient guardian's power.

Underdark Levels (CONT.)

LOWERDARK

Dschungel dichter

Welcome to the untamed land of the Saurians. A settlement that descends deep below the upper surface, stretches horizontally inward from the outer layer, and delves from top to bottom of this multi-layered realm. This setting (Underdark) comprises three levels, each taking a staggering 3&3/4 miles downward from the surface. And it is here, eight miles beneath the ground and about 35 miles South West of Tyar-Besil, that the elusive Saurial civilization resides.

The Saurians' settlement is a wild and uncultivated wilderness, hidden away from the prying eyes of untrained adventurers who might unknowingly stumble upon its secrets. For those who do, upon arrival, a peculiar
sensation envelops them: an uncanny emotion and
lingering awareness of perpetual displacement. Like
a fish out of water. Explorers unskilled in navigating
this type terrain find themselves maladapted to their surroundings, akin to a seal stranded on a
sunbaked beach.

This remarkable land is interwoven with the majestic Mythal, a suspended entity hovering high above, the source from which all the rivers in this realm flow. The landscape here is a mosaic of imposing mountain walls, dense jungles, serene yet meandering rivers, and occasional geysers erupting with volatile energy. Dschungel Dichter is a place of wonder and danger. The Saurians and Charcarion have made it their home; a civilization thriving in the depths of this mysterious dimension.

Dess'aiyndoll

Nestled deep within the heart of Toril, a foreboding colony of Illithid exists, a testament to the blending of aberrant powers and the once-familiar creatures of the land. This secret enclave is a haunting fusion of the known and the alien, a place where the natural order has been perverted into something nightmarish and unsettling.
The colony's location is deep within the Lowerdark. Rockbed and the land's crust are a barrier to both help keep them hidden away and provide the Illithid with the everyday comforts of life. Cavern walls buckle and heave with trepidation, as if recoiling from the presence of these otherworldly beings. The eerie silence is occasionally disrupted by strange sounds or the haunting cries that echo through the shadows.

The Illithid within the colony possess an unsettling appearance. They are a ghastly amalgamation of once-proud creatures, twisted into aberrant forms. Their eyes glow with an otherworldly light, hinting at the unimaginable Far Realm powers that course through their veins.

ADVENTURE HOOKS

When your players go forth, many episodic encounters are available to spur your characters onward.

NEVER VAULT BETTER

The party encounters a unique non-player character (NPC), (or the Seppuku Servant, A suicidal servant of Psilofyr - LatLQ) who is grappling with the invasive mind of the Myconid Deity. It is clear that the individual's sanity and sense of self is at peril. The Githyanki Raiyanko, having orchestrated the Mycelium Metamorphosis, brings this quest hook to the players.

In summary, the players' interaction with the ailing NPC, or player character, catalyzes a captivating and multi-layered narrative. Their journey to the realm of Limbo unveils a monistic order steeped in mystery, leading them towards the prospect of encountering an ancient master who holds the key to staving off the encroaching madness. This immersive narrative invites players to engage with themes of spirituality, unity, and the transcendence of reality in a way that resonates on both emotional and intellectual levels.