Issue Fifteen

OD&DITIES $2.00

Joseph Conaway (Order #33554433)

 Contents
3 Editorial R. E. B. Tongue
OK, feel free to skip it. Your loss.
4 A Touch of Class: The Elementalist R. E. B. Tongue
Harnessing the primal forces of nature itself to do your bidding...
12 Walking the Dusty Trail R. E. B. Tongue
What will your players find on the highways and byways of your world?
14 Resurrection: To Die or Not to Die Dale Cameron
When you aren't quite ready for the last, great adventure...
18 Alternate Alignments R. E. B. Tongue
Another option for the Alignment Wars
19 Elemental Beasts R. E. B. Tongue
A collection of mysterious elemental, and quasi-elemental beasts...
23 'X' Marks the Spot R. E. B. Tongue
What to do when you need a Treasure Map on the fly...
25 Mr. B's Last Word Mr. B
He's back again. I'm running out of Scotch, though...

Cover by Steve Robertson

Artwork © Maciej Zagonski, Pawet Dobosz
Artwork © 2008 Jeff Freels, used with permission
This magazine made use of artwork from The Forge Studios.

Joseph Conaway (Order #33554433)

 Editorial
Quite a few bits of housekeeping for the Editorial, but I'm going to start by telling you all to flip back a couple of pages
and take another look at the Steve Robertson cover; one of my favourite OD&DITIES covers yet. Another highlight is
the first submission in the relaunched OD&DITIES – actually a piece that would likely have run in the original
OD&DITIES 13 back in the first run – an excellent piece fleshing out the idea of resurrection, produced by Dale
Cameron. I want lots more submissions for the next issue – OD&DITIES NEEDS YOU! Submission deadline is May
13th, so you still have time, and there is always Issue 17 to look forward to as well. Issue 16's theme is to be 'Lost
World', Issue 17's to be 'Into the Dungeon' – but suggest anything, as I don't want every article in an issue to
necessarily match the theme.

The theme of this issue is 'Elemental Magic'. It was going to be 'Magic-Users', but an article just managed to get
completely out of hand and dominate the entire magazine. That piece was the 'Elementalist', an attempt of a real
alternative to the traditional Magic-User for Labyrinth Lord, more of a 'stand back and aid' type of spell-wielder. His
key – summoning Elementals, of course! This means that the Elementalist requires Elementals to summon, and so
another article was born giving some new Elemental creatures for Labyrinth Lord, some varieties of Imp and Mephit,
and an article on 'Elemental Alignments'. This has meant that there is no 'Expanded Grimoire' this issue; be assured
that it will return with a vengeance next time, but I thought that six pages of spells was probably enough for one
issue.

While I was putting the 'Elementalist' article together, it struck me that I had never taken my group away from the
Prime Plane; I've always kept them in their natural environment, and I'm beginning to wonder about the possibilities.
Not only are there the Elemental Planes to play with, but also the Quasi-Planes, Upper Planes, Lower Planes – this
game of ours does seem to have a highly confusing cosmology, and I am intending to take more advantage of it.
Specifically – and if any of my players are reading this, be warned – expect a few portals to appear on the sandbox
map in the near future...

As always, check out the OD&DITIES blog at http://odditiesmagazine.blogspot.com/ for more updates, discussion, and
information; I'm trying to update it a few times a week. In the meantime, enjoy the issue!

Yours,
Richard Tongue,
Editor, OD&DITIES

Joseph Conaway (Order #33554433)

 A Touch of Class: The Elementalist
Elementalist Playing an Elementalist involves an awareness of the
limitations and abilities of the character. He will be able
Requirements: Con 13, Int 17 to conjure up creatures to do much of his work for him,
Prime Requisite: Constitution but will be unable to create the devastating effects that
Hit Dice: 1d3+1 many normal magic-users can concoct – though will
Maximum Level: None have many powerful abilities of their own. They should
be role-played in accordance with their element. For
Summoners specialise in one of the most dangerous of example, Fire Elementalists should generally be Chaotic
the magical arts – that of summoning Elemental forces, in nature, while Earth Elementalists should be Lawful.
and binding them to his will. This speciality is loaded
with risk; not only are the incantations and rituals At 'Name' Level: Once an Elementalist reaches 'Name'
physically tasking, but there is always a chance that the level, he will be experience enough to pass on his
creature the magic-user is attempting to summon will wisdom to apprentices; 1d4 low-level students will
instead turn on its master, albeit one reduced with proper arrive for instruction. When Elementalist build fortresses,
preparation. They have the same abilities with weapons these tend to personify the element they worship; their
and armour as normal Magic-Users, and use the same construction generally involves much long-term magical
attack and saving throw tables. preparation.

During character creation, the player must choose which Resist Element: At 1st level, the Elementalist gains the
Element his character is going to follow; this will impact ability to resist the effects of one specific element; this
the nature of the Elementals he will be able to summon, equates to a +4 saving throw against any effect, magical
as well as the abilities he will gain as he advances in or otherwise, that involves that element. Every other
levels. There are four available – Earth, Air, Fire and level, the Elementalist can choose to either increase this
Water; the traditional 'four elements'. When casting modifier by an additional -4, or to extend this power to
elementalist spells of that element, he gains a +2 modifer another element. The first element selected must always
to any dice roll relevant to the spell. In addition, at each be the Elementalist's element of choice.
level there is one spell unique to that type of Elementalist
Elementalist Level Progression
Unlike normal magic-users, the Elementalist does not Experience Level Hit Dice (D4)
draw his spells from a book, but from the primal forces 0 1 1
of nature, far more in the manner of a cleric. Every night,
2,750 2 2
he must attune himself with his element, a ritual taking
5,500 3 3
six hours, involving exposure to the element in question.
10,700 4 4
If, for some reason, the element is unavailable, then the
22,900 5 5
Elementalist cannot regain his spells. It is rare, therefore,
to find Water Elementals wandering the deserts of the 44,500 6 6
world. Spells are learned through instruction from other 91,000 7 7
elementalists, or through study; an Elementalist gains 172,000 8 8
1d4 spells per level automatically, including the 314,000 9 9
elemental spell unique to his element. 490,000 10 9+1
689,000 11 9+2
1,420,500 12 9+3

Joseph Conaway (Order #33554433)

 Elementalist Spell Progression

Class Spell Level

Level 1 2 3 4 5 6
1 2
2 3
3 3 1
4 3 2
5 4 2 1
6 4 3 1
7 4 3 2 1
8 5 3 2 2
9 5 4 2 2 1
10 5 4 3 2 2
11 6 4 3 3 2 1
12 6 5 3 3 2 2

Elementalist Spells

1st Level 2nd Level 3rd Level

Burning Hands (Fire) Create Element Elemental Bolt
Contact Elemental Control Minor Elemental Elemental Circle
Elemental Missile Elemental Shield Elemental Weapon
Magic Stone (Earth) Fog Cloud (Water) Fireball (Fire)
Protection from Elements Gaseous Form (Air) Fly (Air)
Seek Element Produce Flame (Fire) Greater Protection from Elements
Summon Imp Resist Element Shower of Stones (Earth)
Veiling Mist (Water) Soften Earth (Earth) Summon Quasi-Mephit
Wall of Wind (Air) Summon Elemental Mephit Water Breathing (Water)

4th Level 5th Level 6th Level

Control Water (Water) Blast of Water (Water) Earthquake (Earth)
Control Winds (Air) Control Major Elemental Greater Elemental Circle
Elemental Immunity Control Weather (Air) Incendiary Cloud (Fire)
Elemental Wall Elemental Portal Summon Major Elemental
Fire Shield (Fire) Fire Storm (Fire) Tsunami (Water)
Greater Elemental Shield Major Create Elements Whirlwind (Air)
Pass Through Earth (Earth) Stoneflesh (Earth)
Summon Lesser Elemental Summon Elemental

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 Elementalist's Arcana
Burning Hands Control Water
Element: Fire Element: Water
Level: 1 Level: 4
Duration: Instant Duration: 5 minutes/level
Range: Touch Range: 400' + 40'/level

Burning Hands turns the casters hands into flames; he This spell allows the Elementalist to control water within
takes no damage himself, but anything he touches bursts the radius of action; he can raise or lower it, render it
into flame! Anything touched takes 1d8 damage. rough, freeze it or unfreeze it.

Contact Elemental Control Weather

Element: Any Element: Air
Level: 1 Level: 5
Duration: 5 turns Duration: 10 minutes
Range: Special Range: 2 miles

This spell allows the Elementalist to contact an Elemental Within the radius of the spell, the Elementalist is able to
of his chosen speciality, and ask a question, typically control the general tendency of the weather, but cannot
connected with a previous task the Elemental has been perform any specific action; he can start a storm, but
summoned to perform, or any knowledge that he may cannot choose where the lightning will strike. After the
realistically be expected to possess. duration of the spell has passed, the caster loses his
control, but the effects he has created may linger.
Control Minor Elemental
Element: Any Control Winds
Level: 2 Element: Air
Duration: 1 turn/level Level: 4
Range: 10' Duration: 8 minutes/level
Range: 60'/level
This spell works on Imps, Quasits, and Minor Elementals,
and acts as a Charm spell. Its primary use is against Create Winds allows an Air Elementalist to manipulate
creatures of this type that have already been summoned, the winds in this area, quietening them down or speeding
and the Elemental is allowed a saving throw to resist the them up, changing its direction or creating updrafts or
effects of the spell. downdrafts to aid flight.

Control Major Elemental Create Element

Element: Any Element: Any
Level: 5 Level: 2
Duration: 1 turn/level Duration: Permanent
Range: 10' Range: 10'

This spell acts as Control Minor Elemental, but against Using this spell, the elementalist can create up to 10
normal or Major Elementals. cubit feet of his chosen element.

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 Earthquake Elemental Missile
Element: Earth Element: Any
Level: 6 Level: 1
Duration: 1 round Duration: 1 round
Range: 80' Range: 150'

This spell creates a severe tremor, knocking people down, This spell acts as Magic Missile, but consists of a bolt of
collapsing buildings, and opening cracks in the ground. elemental force.
No-one in the radius of effect can take an action during
the quake, and the DM should judge the effect on the Elemental Portal
surrounding area. Element: Any
Level: 5
Elemental Bolt Duration: 1 turn/level
Element: Any Range: 10'
Level: 3
Duration: Instantaneous This spell opens a portal to the Elemental Plane of the
Range: 180' Elementalist's chosen element, and holds it open for the
duration of the spell. If cast in reversed form (which
This spell is identical to the Lightning Bolt spell, but is constitutes a second version of the spell), it will open a
created of the elemental force of the elementalist's portal from the Elemental Plane back to the caster's home
speciality. plane. Anyone can pass through it.

Elemental Circle Elemental Shield

Element: Any Element: Any
Level: 3 Level: 2
Duration: 12 turns Duration: 1 turn/level
Range: 10' Range: Touch

This spell acts as Protection from Elements, on all within This spell acts as Shield, but also provides the effects of
the radius of the spell. Protection from Elements.

Elemental Immunity Elemental Wall

Element: Any Element: Any
Level: 4 Level: 4
Duration: 1 turn/level Duration: 12 turns
Range: Caster Range: 120'

This spell renders the Elementalist immune to any This spell functions as Wall of Ice, but created of the
harmful effects of the element selected. Fire will not burn appropriate element for the speciality of the elementalist.
him, water will not drown him. This spell also renders
the Elementalist immune to any effects caused the the
lack of the element chosen; while under its effects, he
would no longer need air to breathe, for example.

Joseph Conaway (Order #33554433)

 Elemental Weapon Fire Storm
Element: Any Element: Fire
Level: 3 Level: 5
Duration: 2 turns/level Duration: 1 round
Range: Touch Range: 100' + 10'/level

This spell allows the caster to imbue a weapon of his The whole area of the spell is filled with burning flame,
choice with his chosen element, producing an effect doing 1d6 damage to any creature surrounding the
based on that element. While imbued, these weapons caster. All creatures are targeted, friendly or not.
count as magical.
Fly
Fire: The weapon bursts into flames; it will not Element: Air
damage the wielder, but produces an additional Level: 3
1d8 damage. Duration: Level + 1d6 turns
Earth: The weapon becomes tougher, stronger. It will Range: Personal
not break, and does an additional 1d4 damage –
rising to 1d10 if a bludgeoning weapon is Acts as the magic-user spell Fly.
converted in this manner.
Water: This weapon does triple-damage to any fire- Fog Cloud
based creatures, and a low steam rises from the Element: Air
weapon, giving a +2 bonus to the wielder's AC. Level: 2
Air: On every strike, a loud thunderclap sounds; the Duration: 10 minutes/level
target must Save vs. Spells or lose -5 to his next Range: 100' + 10'/level
dice roll due to the distraction.
From a designated target, a billowing fog rises from the
Fireball ground, obscuring all non-magical vision. The fog fills an
Element: Fire area of 30', and can only be dispersed prior to the ending
Level: 3 of the spell by magical means.
Duration: Instant
Range: 240' Greater Elemental Circle
Element: Any
This acts as the Fireball spell. Level: 6
Duration: 12 turns
Fire Shield Range: 15'
Element: Fire
Level: 4 This spell acts as Greater Protection from Elements,
Duration: 1 turn/level affecting all within the radius of the spell.
Range: Personal
Greater Protection from Elements
The caster suddenly bursts into flames; neither he or any Element: Any
of his equipment are damaged, but any creature Level: 3
attacking him in melee takes 1d8 damage, and risks Duration: 1 turn/level
being set on fire. (Saving Throw vs. Spells, failure means Range: Personal
1d8 damage per round until the fire is doused.)
This spell acts as Protection from Elements, but provides a
-10 instead of a -6.

Joseph Conaway (Order #33554433)

 Incendiary Cloud Produce Flame
Element: Fire Element: Fire
Level: 6 Level: 2
Duration: 1 round/level Duration: 1 turn/level
Range: 100' + 10'/level Range: 100'

This spell creates a cloud of smoke and fire, spreading by Flames leap up from the palm of the caster's hand, and
5' a round for the duration of the spell effect. Not only can be used as a source of illumination similar to the
does this spell obscure all non-magical sight, it also Light spell; in addition, they can also be hurled from the
inflicts 2d6 damage on all creatures within the effect of palm in the same manner as an Elemental Bolt, once per
the spell. (Save vs. Spells for Half Damage) level of the caster.

Major Create Elements Protection from Elements

Element: Any Element: Any
Level: 5 Level: 1
Duration: Permanent Duration: 1 turn/level
Range: 100' Range: Personal

Using this spell, the Elementalist can create 100' cubic This spell provides a -6 to all saving throws related to a
feet of his chosen element. specific element selected by the caster. This stacks with
the Elementalist's normal saving throw modifier.
Magic Stone
Element: Earth Seek Element
Level: 1 Element: Any
Duration: Permanent Level: 1
Range: Touch Duration: Instant
Range: 100'
This spell imbues up to four stones, the size of sling
pellets, with the spirit of Elemental Earth. This gives them Upon casting this spell, the Elementalist instinctively
a +1 to damage, and they are counted as magical knows the location of all sources of the element selected
weapons for the purpose of damaging magical foes. within the range of the spell. When seeking his chosen
element, the range is doubled.
Pass Through Earth
Element: Earth Shower of Stones
Level: 4 Element: Earth
Duration: 3 turns Level: 3
Range: 30' Duration: Instant
Range: 40'
This spell acts as Passwall
The Elementalist causes a hail of rocks to fall out of the
sky onto his chosen target; the spell creates one rock per
level of the caster, that each cause 1d6 points of damage.
The rocks automatically hit their target.

Joseph Conaway (Order #33554433)

 Soften Earth Summon Elemental Mephit
Element: Earth Element: Any
Level: 2 Level: 2
Duration: Instant Duration: Concentration
Range: 25' + 5'/level Range: 120'

Upon the casting of this spell, all stone and earth within This spell works as Summon Imp, but the caster
the range of the spell softens. Stone cracks down, earth summons an Elemental Mephit, of the element to which
becomes mud, mud becomes swamp. Magical creatures he is attuned.
are unaffected.
Summon Lesser Elemental
Stoneflesh Element: Any
Element: Earth Level: 4
Level: 5 Duration: Concentration
Duration: 1 turn/level Range: 180'
Range: Personal
This spell works as Conjure Elemental, but summons an
When this spell is cast, the skin of the Elementalist Elemental of 8 HD of the element to which the caster is
rapidly hardens, turning into living stone; he becomes attuned.
both tougher and stronger for the duration of the spell,
granting him an effective Strength of 18 and an Armour Summon Major Elemental
Class of -8. Element: Any
Level: 6
Summon Imp Duration: Concentration
Element: Any Range: 300'
Level: 1
Duration: Concentration This spell works as Conjure Elemental, but summons an
Range: 60' Elemental of 16 HD of the element to which the caster is
attuned.
Upon casting this spell, the Elementalist summons an Imp
representing the Element to which he is attuned. While Summon Quasi-Mephit
concentrating on the Imp, he is able to control its actiosn Element: Any
and movements, only a single Imp at a time. The caster Level: 3
can return the Imp to its home plane at will; if he loses Duration: Concentration
concentration, then the Imp will turn and attack the Range: 90'
Elementalist.
This spell works as Summon Mephit, but the caster can
Summon Elemental conjure a Quasi-Mephit of an aspect related to the
Element: Any element to which he is attuned.
Level: 5
Duration: Concentration
Range: 240'

This spell works as Conjure Elemental. It summons an

Elemental with 12 HD.

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Joseph Conaway (Order #33554433)

 Tsunami Wall of Wind
Element: Water Element: Air
Level: 6 Level: 1
Duration: 2 minutes/level Duration: 1 round/level
Range: 100' + 10'/level Range: 5'

The Elementalist summons his powers to arose the waters This spell causes a small tornado to rise around the
to action. This spell creates a tidal wave, rising 2 meters caster, with the caster himself at the eye of the storm; this
per level of the caster, which surges in a direction makes it difficult for missile weapons to reach him,
established by the caster. The wave cannot be stopped by providing a -4 modifier to all ranged weapon attacks.
non-magical means, and travels until it reaches land, or
until the spell runs out. Water Breathing
Element: Water
Veiling Mist Level: 3
Element: Water Duration: 1 day
Level: 1 Range: Caster / Touch
Duration: 3 rounds / level
Range: 20' This works as the Water Breathing magic-user spell.

This spell causes a magical fog to envelop the caster, Whirlwind

protecting him against attacks. It forms within a round, Element: Air
surrounding the caster, and remains stationary for the Level: 6
duration of the spell. The fog can only be dispersed by Duration: Concentration
magical means, and provides a -5 to hit against all Range: 400'
targets within the fog.
The Elementalist harnesses the power of Elemental Air to
cause a raging whirlwind under his direction; he can
send this hither and thither, casting enemies to the sky
(Saving Throw vs. Petrification to avoid being picked up
and thrown by the whirlwind, damage as for falling.) If
the Caster loses concentration, then the whirlwind
travels in a random direction for 1d3 rounds until
dispersing; the Elementalist can elect to disperse the
whirlwind at any time while it is under his control.

Designer's Notes
This class began as a short idea, and spun out of control; it evolved from a Magic-User variant into an alternate take
on the Magic-User class in general, one which feels more 'magical'. The core concept of the class revolves around the
ability to summon Elementals to do its bidding, but during the design process a strong secondary concept revolved
around a manipulation of the local environment, especially for the Water and Earth Elementalists. The Element
chosen will have a major effect on this class in play – a Fire Elementalist has access to more damage-potential than
any other, and a Water Elementalist may, in many campaigns, prove somewhat limiting, but in a seafaring campaign,
could prove devestating. Likewise, in the right sort of campaign, an Air Elementalist could prove to be a major power.
Dungeon Masters should carefully consider whether to allow normal Magic-Users to have access to any of these
spells, though they could provide interesting flavour elements.

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Joseph Conaway (Order #33554433)

 Walking the Dusty Trail
Looking at the standard encounter tables in most old- cults would also often travel from area to areas, and self-
school games, it rapidly becomes apparent that no-one in proclaimed 'prophets' with their retinues were not
their right mind would dare to venture more than a few uncommon, though often attracting unwelcome attention
miles from a settlement, or risk the near certainty of from established authority.
being killed by one ne'er-do-well or another. Bands of
orcs, rampaging dragons, mighty barbarian hordes all Wandering nobles, especially the sons of a noble, are also
seem perfectly willing to come up to the city limits and likely to be travelling. Many would go on official
wait for anyone foolish enough to decide to travel. business for their father, or could be wandering to
inspect various properties, or even collect taxes. A lot of
At worst, this can make wilderness travel downright fun can be had with this sort of encounter, ranging from
deadly, but at best, it can make campaign worlds seem the petty, snivelling worm to the arrogant fop. Remember
more like fantasy shoot-'em-ups than actual settings. – actions have consequences. Should the PCs fail to pay
With a little more thought, however, such journeys can their respects to the lord's son, they may find themselves
become the source of many interesting encounters, and gently, or not so gently, escorted from the area.
adventures all themselves.
Merchants would frequently pass between settlements,
Historically, people didn't travel far from their homes. carrying wares either in a single wagon or in convoy,
Rare visits to the market town were the limit of most depending on the danger inherent in the area. This can
people's wanderings, or raids on nearby demesnes for the prove a valuable encounter for any group, as they can
benefit of their lord. A rare few, however, did travel either be counted upon to give a price for any goods
further, and these are some of the more interesting found by the PCs, or be the source of vitally needed
characters that a wandering group of PCs can encounter. equipment. Along similar lines, craftsmen would often
also travel between small settlements plying their skills to
Pilgrims were a frequent sight on the roads of medieval communities too small to permanently provide a living,
Europe, travelling to see one shrine or another. These but sufficient for an occasional visit.
came in a wide variety of types, ranging from a lone,
penniless mendicant living off the land and scavenging Gypsies were frequently encountered on the by-ways,
as he went, to a noble and his retinue travelling to pay and often proved to be a mixed bag in terms of their
their respects to the local Archbishop, and to buy appeal. Whilst they often provided valuable services to
absolution. Reactions here are generally dependent on small villages, selling small objects, repairing broken
the attitude of the PCs; worshippers of evil deities are far goods, and strong backs for work, they also had a
more likely to prove aggressive, and may attempt some reputation for petty theft, brawling, and drunkenness;
'forced conversion'; this can certainly apply should the depending on the campaign setting in general this may
party find itself in need of healing, or similar spiritual or may not be deserved.
services. Whilst they may not charge much in coin, they
are likely to charge more in other ways. Wandering Heralds and other messengers also travelled the roads,
missionaries and itinerant priests were also often found but often too rapidly to do anything other than wave at
travelling the by-ways of the land; the penalties for the PCs as they ride past at speed, carrying messages for
harming a priest can prove far from intangible, but the local rulers and the wealthy. They also carried news from
benefits for aiding one can be immense. That 'mad monk' place to place, and this could certainly stimulate
may turn out to be the Abbot of a local monastery. Minor campaigns.

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Joseph Conaway (Order #33554433)

 The range of encounters is not the end of the story, The dangers of the wilds should not be underestimated,
however, as the element that can make a campaign truly but there will be protection provided also. If bandits are a
memorable and notable is the repeat encounter. When problem, then the local lords or guilds will sent out
only a certain number of NPCs travel the highways, the patrols to stop them, and the PCs can easily become
PCs are going to encounter them again and again, and if involved in this, from one side or another. In general, it is
they generally run on a loose schedule, they can come to a good idea to define 'safe' and 'hazardous' areas. Major
expect the encounter, whether for better or worse. A trade routes should have relatively few inimical
merchant may travel between market days in half a encounters, as they will be well-populated and well-
dozen towns before returning home to stock up; a group patrolled, but the further one goes from the beaten path,
could build up a special relationship with him. They the less likely such protection is to be in evidence.
might head to a village to rest up only to find the
missionary they mocked defaming their character to the The nature of such opposition should depend on the
locals. Try and prepare a 'campaign calendar', and if any nature of the campaign setting, but it should be
encounters on the road prove notable, work out when remembered that although bandits and thieves are likely
they will be in different villages, and roughly how long to avoid well-patrolled areas, they only survive when
they will take to get there. Although this can simply be they are able to find people to rob; totally out-of-the-
done by DM fiat, it adds an element of realism to the way areas will not see much crime, as there will be far
game to spend a bit of time organising it. less to steal.

It is in these areas that the hidden parts of your campaign

setting can be hidden. Here you will not be attacked for
your coin purse, but because you have intruded into
someone's territory. Here there is no chance of protection
from anyone.

But even in these remote areas, there will still be

travellers and wanderers, though they will be more
heavily armed, more paranoid, and more desperate.
Wherever there is a population, people will travel
between settlements, either for a commercial purpose, a
dishonest purpose, or simply out of plain boredom.

The trick is to try and make the setting have an internal

logic and consistency, even if it does not accord with
reality. Powerful wizards may travel by flying carpet, but
It is relatively straightforward to involve the PCs in the
they will still travel, and this may only up the stakes, as
lives of these wanderers; indeed, the PCs are likely in a
some turn rogue and elect to prey on the weak.
sense itinerant travellers themselves. If a noble's son is
Remember motivation, and remember that although the
planning to visit a few villages on the outskirts of the
PCs think they have a perfectly good reason for
kingdom, the PCs may elect to ride along with his
travelling, so does everyone else. Even the Orcs and the
retinue, in order to obtain greater protection. A group
Dragons, presumably...
finding a missionary planning to venture into harm's way
may, if they share the same faith, volunteer to accompany
him on his travels to protect him. They might be hired to
track a group of wandering gypsies, accused of stealing
the daughter of a local innkeeper.

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Joseph Conaway (Order #33554433)

 Resurrection : To die or not to die
"It began as a simple idea - a Resurrection Society. A of Raise Dead.) I would personally favour a time frame
mutual non-profit organisation dedicated to the rescue of months over years for this spell and this change is
and resurrection of its members. What it became was essential if a Resurrection Society is going to be a viable
something no one expected." addition to any campaign world.

What do player characters fear the most? The death of Whereas Raise Dead implies that missing limbs will still
their characters. And what do they have the most, which be missing, Resurrection states that the condition of the
many a DM struggles to free them of? Money. Allow me body is not a factor provided some small portion still
then to introduce the Resurrection Society, a possible exists. This begs the question how much recipient tissue
addition to any campaign. I’ll conclude by suggesting a is required to cast Resurrection. I think at least the skull
rather nasty implication, which could be developed into a must be present otherwise a player could store a finger
fully-fledged campaign based around resurrection. with a cleric to be used in case of death and it would
become more like the 8th level magic-user spell Clone.
Resurrection in Labyrinth Lord (From the Advanced Edition Companion)
Firstly however, we need to explore the rules regarding
resurrection in Labyrinth Lord. Unfortunately these rules
contain changes and contradictions.

Raise Dead
The fifth level cleric spell Raise Dead becomes available
to clerics on reaching 9th level where they can raise a
body that has been dead for ten days (2 days at 7th level
and an extra 4 days thereafter). By contrast in my copy of
Rules Cyclopedia Raise Dead is gained at 10th level
which allows a body that has been dead for 12 days (4
days for every level above 8th) to be raised. A confusing
situation in both rule sets. Personally I believe that Raise
Dead is so miraculous an event that a four-day
requirement, increasing from 9th level, is appropriate.

Whichever you choose, there isn't a lot of time to get a

body back to a cleric for resurrection, as many players
have discovered.

Resurrection
Resurrection is a 7th level cleric spell gained at 15th level
in Labyrinth Lord. This allows the resurrection of
humans or demihumans who have been dead for 10
years per caster level (150 years at 15th level!). Again in Rods of Resurrection
contrast, Rules Cyclopedia suggests four months at 17th This item doesn't feature in Labyrinth Lord, but is present
level increasing by four months/level (plus the ability to in the Advanced Edition Companion.
resurrect any other living creature as per the restrictions

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 The Resurrection Society least a 15th level cleric and preferably one of high
What is the Resurrection Society (RS)? The charter of the enough level to allow a full year of grace.
RS states the society's purpose: to provide a rescue and
resurrection service for its members following untimely “Wouldn't it be easier for a party of adventurers to take
or premature death. the body of a dead comrade to a high level cleric
themselves, without the need for a RS?”
It's Promise
Once the society has been notified of the death of any This ignores the second part of the RS charter - rescue.
member from non-natural means (i.e. old age is Sometimes an adventurer dies but the rest of his party
excluded) it will endeavour to recover the body and use survives to carry out the resurrection. Other times the
its resources to raise the member back to life. The RS will party flees from the battle and the body is lost or the
continue this endeavour until either the member has whole party is killed in an encounter. This is where the
been raised or a year has passed since the member's RS steps in. Once notified of a member's death, the RS
death. Only one resurrection is possible per year unless will take the necessary steps to procure the member's
an additional yearly membership fee is paid in advance. body in order to carry out the resurrection. This could
involve hiring another party of adventurers to investigate
Membership the death and then recover the body, either by force or by
The society is opened to all who can pay. It does not negotiation with whoever currently has possession of the
discriminate between those of different alignments or body.
faiths; except for criminals justly executed by a lawful or
neutral government. The expenses of the RS are thus two fold, maintaining the
services of at least a 15th level cleric to cast spells and
Headquarters write Raise Dead and Resurrection scrolls (for the more
The RS is found only in the largest of cities. It is a remote smaller headquarters) and outfitting an
powerful and wealthy organisation both financially and adventuring party to carry out rescues. The first is
in the political influence of its members. It has the probably a set but expensive cost but the second will
combined wealth of a small nation and is truly multi- increase with the level of the deceased member, since the
national in operation. monster that kills a 20th level character is likely to be
much harder to defeat by the rescue squad then the one
Backers that killed a 3rd level character; and may even involve
Although a non-religious organisation, the RS has a close planar travel. This is how the RS can easily justify a
relationship with a number of high-level clerics of membership fee, which varies according to level.
predominantly neutral but a few lawful faiths. It may
also, at the DM's discretion, have access to the 8th level Cost of Membership
magic-user spell, Clone. I have suggested that the RS is a The cost will vary according to how many 15th level
non-profit organisation in keeping with many present clerics the DM figures are in the campaign world, but
day societies and mutuals but this need not be the case. they are unlikely to be commonplace, and are likely to
each have significant temporal as well as spiritual power.
How does the RS work in practice? (Though this may vary between worlds – high-magic
The above rule outline and suggestions for resurrection settings could have numerous characters at this level).
in Labyrinth Lord highlights the time constraints and For this reason RS membership does not come cheap.
difficulties the RS will be under. A dead RS member will Which is good since this is part of its purpose: to offer
need to be raised by a 9th level cleric within four days of players something useful, a safety net against death but at
their death. Hardly time for the RS to be notified of the a cost, which uses up their extra funds.
death, let alone find and raise the body. A minimum for
the RS to make it practically viable is the alliance of at

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 So how much gold are we talking about? SERF - Society for Equality and Resurrection Fairness
I would suggest an initial joining fee of between 5000-
10000 gp to cover the base cost of the RS in "'Death to the Resurrection Society' became the rallying
accumulating spells/scrolls and 1000-3000 gp/level/year call of the poor and oppressed. None interfered when the
to cover rescue and sundry expenses. So at a minimum a mobs tore down the Resurrection Society Headquarters
10th level character would pay 5000gp to join and an but when the mob turned on the temples and their noble
additional 10000gp/year. An easily affordable amount patrons, the paladins and knights sworn to temple and
for most player characters unless they have a DM liege lord service, were summoned. Ruthlessly they
particularly skilled at removing money. I would set the quashed the uprising and the leaders of the mob burned."
cost at a level, which hurts but is still enticing.
Have you ever wondered how blatantly unfair and
How could a Resurrection Society be introduced into a classist resurrection is in a fantasy world? Take Peter the
current campaign? Peasant. Last year when the plague hit his lord's
The party's first experience may be by being hired by the dominion Peter lost his wife and two children but up at
RS to carry out a rescue mission. This may involve first the castle the lord's family was resurrected. Worse, it has
tracking down the last known whereabouts of the recently been decreed that due to the excessive death of
missing RS member, ascertaining who has the body and duelling young nobles, a cleric must be paid to attend
recovering it. There could be a considerable bonus if the any duels and raise the dead duellist back to life.
party can recover the body within the time constraints of
a Raise Dead spell sparing the RS the expense of using a Worse still, last month Peter's lord's favourite hunting
Resurrection scroll. Missing limbs from the recovered dog died while hunting a wild boar but by the use of
body could likewise rob the party of some of their bonus. Resurrection it lived again, but for Peter last month
marked the death of his last living child trampled by a
The RS may arrive into the party's main city of residence party of adventurers racing out of town to explore a
to set up a new headquarters and their involvement may newly discovered dungeon. And finally worst of all, a
be purely as new joining members. Resurrection Society has been founded but only the filthy
rich adventurers and nobles can afford membership. For
When the fireball bursts amongst the party and the DM Peter and the multitudes like him, nothing but death
fears he has inadvertently killed all his players, he could awaits.
decide to just let it rip. Make the players either roll up
some new high-level characters or play henchmen or You can see the scenario I am building. In a medieval
other NPC's and see if they can recover their own bodies. fantasy setting, especially with lots of monsters,
This would surely focus the players' minds on the mission premature death for the masses of the population must
and be good for a change of pace if they play characters be common but how many clerics dedicate their careers
of a different class to their usual. to changing this fact. And even if they did a 9th level
cleric can only raise one person a day and whom would
Or the DM may want to take on the following evil they use this spell on - other clerics, paying adventurers,
twist… nobles and their families. There is little hope for Peter or
his family.

The founding of a RS may be the final straw to people

like Peter. The DM could introduce a RS into a
campaign, allow the players to join and even benefit but
then up the ante. Initially the players may not even be
aware of the growing discontent. An old peasant waiting
at the entrance to a dungeon cradling a dead child,

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 hoping the adventurers might raise his child or offer him may well find themselves pulled between supporting the
money so that he can do so. If they do then they may establishment and supporting the masses. Perhaps they
discover ten or twenty peasants waiting for them when could act as mediators, establishing new guidelines for
they leave the dungeon also with dead family members, resurrection (unpopular with the temples and nobles) or
just when the adventurers might be needing the perhaps they may take a more active and deciding role.
spells/money for themselves. The macabre sight of the
adventurers being followed everywhere by peasants What then? A lawful society is attacking its own
carrying their dead could ensue. members who have a legitimate grievance; this is not
likely to be ignored by the gods. For the Chaotic gods, the
Finally the peasants rise up and attack at what they rebellion can suit their purposes leading to more chaos
consider to be an unfair situation. This could be focussed and if resurrection becomes more difficult, so much the
on the RS headquarters but would quickly spill over to all better to increase human suffering. For the lawful gods
those who carry out and benefit from resurrection. the situation is much more difficult, drastic measure may
Faced with lawlessness the realm's rulers will seek to be taken, especially if they believe that humans have
curb the violence, they have no choice. The role for the acted in an arbitrary and non-lawful manner.
player characters could be anything from being the
rulers, to being captains or knights of the realm. What is "The cries of the innocent men and women were heard
likely is that the player characters will have benefited in the heavens and they were not ignored. Such it was
from some noble at some point in the past and that noble that the gods removed the spells of resurrection from the
will be calling on favours. It is thus very likely that the world."
party will be asked to help quash the rebellion. This
places the players in a moral quandary. They as wealthy I wish you happy playing and long life.
adventurers are prime recipients of resurrection but they

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 Alternate Alignments
Lawful, Neutral, Chaotic. The three alignments that are So we've dealt with party unity, but what of alignments. I
used as a key definition of the personality of a Labyrinth still feel that there is something worth saving here, and
Lord character. Adding a second axis, Good, Neutral, Evil, that there is a strong place for a simple definition of
can provide additional depth, but to be honest, it can 'what is my character'. It needs to be, however, something
sometimes feel confining in one sense, and too open in that is less likely to antagonise other players in the group,
another. What is a 'Lawful' character if he is not a broad so it should be more of a tendency than a straitjacket, and
stereotype – just a license for player justification for it would be nice if it could add significant additional
amoral acts. I'm sick and tired of seeing 'Lawful Good' as flavour to the campaign. Let's take a slightly different
'Holy Fascist'. Generally, and I'd be tempted to say usually, angle at it, then, and one in accord with the Elemental
alignments are not treated as confining limitations. theme of this issue – how about using the Four Elements
When they are used at all, they are simply guidelines as a replacement for 'Alignment'.
within which a player can operate. However, this in itself
leads to more chaos and confusion. One Chaotic PC and So, you have Earth, Air, Fire, and Water. These
there Lawful PCs generally seems to lead to player immediately provide some manner of indication of
discontent, backstabbing, and ultimately hurt feelings all personality beyond a Lawful/Neutral/Chaotic axis. Each
round. I would suggest that instead of having an suggests itself for one of the four playable races in
individual character alignment, the party should Labyrinth Lord; Dwarves are obviously Earth, Humanity
collectively decide at the outset what their alignment will works well as Fire, Halflings could represent the flighty
be as a party – will they be Lawful, Neutral, or Chaotic. Air, and Elves the ever-flowing, ever-present water. You
Then, at least, they are all on the same wavelength. can take this analogy as far as you want, but for purposes
of the game, it might be better to take a less stereotypical
view point. Breaking it down, you might get...

Element Personality
Fire Aggressive and quick to anger, one of great passions with emotions close to the surface.
Feels everything deeply, both in terms of loves and hates. Makes quick, implusive decisions.
Always in the here-and-now, rather than tomorrow.
Earth Solid, and a slow, studious thinker. Always looking towards the long-term, and reluctant to
make any decisions too rapidly for fear they move incorrect. Distrusts change, and prefers
normality every time. Can have one flaw that leads him to shatter – and when roused, is
impossible to hold back.
Air Flighty, and always moving on to the next adventure, the next opportunity. Never sticks to a
decision for any longer than he can help, and is driven by the wanderlust. Changes
direction with his mood, and strong emotions never seem to last for long, with emotional
storms rapidly blowing themselves over.
Water Placid, imperturbable, ever-lasting. A deep, calm personality that does not believe in abrupt
concentration, but rather on slowly working through problems until they disappear.
Nothing disturbs it for long.

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 Elemental Beasts
Elemental Imps Tough, short creatures with tough hides made from
Elemental Imps are minor forces of nature, conjured into living rock, and heavy carapaces, these are generally
existence long ago as servants for a mighty race of used as strong combat servitors. They are slow, steady,
Elementalists long since dead. They now live on the and resolute on their purpose. If attacked, they can cause
Elemental Planes, but are easily drawn across to the a hail of stones to fly from a wall or the ground, hitting a
Prime; they are the favoured servitors of Elementalists for foe; this can be done every other round.
minor tasks.
Fire Imp
Air Imp Encountered: 1 / 1d6
Encountered: 1 / 1d6 Alignment: Chaotic
Alignment: Neutral Movement: 30ft (Walk)
Movement: 20ft (Walk) / 50ft (Fly) Armour Class: 7
Armour Class: 5 Hit Dice: 1
Hit Dice: 1+1 Attacks: 1 Claw
Attacks: 1 Claw Damage: 1d6 / Burn (Claw)
Damage: 1d6 (Claw) Save: F3
Save: F3 Morale: 12 (Controlled) / 6 (Free)
Morale: 12 (Controlled) / 6 (Free) Hoard Class: None (Prime) / XII (Fire)
Hoard Class: None (Prime) / XII (Air) XP: 75
XP: 75
Quick, impulsive creatures that dart about, small red
Creatures of air, light blue with gossamer wings that beings perpetually glowing with an inner heat, with
seem to drift through the sky rather than flying. They flames spouting from their nostrils as they breath,
tend to avoid combat, and are generally used as flying exuding a sulphurous odour. Their touch can cause a
'eyes'. target to set on fire; a saving throw vs. spells is required
to avoid being set alight. (1d3 damage/round.)
Earth Imp
Encountered: 1 / 1d6 Water Imp
Alignment: Lawful Encountered: 1 / 1d6
Movement: 20ft (Walk) Alignment: Neutral
Armour Class: 2 Movement: 20ft (Walk) / 50ft (Swim)
Hit Dice: 2 Armour Class: 3
Attacks: 1 Fist / Special Hit Dice: 1+1
Damage: 1d6 (Fist) / 1d6 (Hail) Attacks: 1 Claw / Special
Save: F3 Damage: 1d6 (Claw) / Fog
Morale: 12 (Controlled) / 9 (Free) Save: F3
Hoard Class: None (Prime) / XII (Earth) Morale: 12 (Controlled) / 6 (Free)
XP: 75 Hoard Class: None (Prime) / XII (Water)
XP: 75

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 A deep blue creature, most at home in the water and lost Earth Mephit
without it; this most resembles the devil imp, with a long Encountered: 1
forked tail and horns; the feet are webbed, and outside of Alignment: Lawful
water the creature leaves a small wet trail behind it. It is Movement: 30'
capable of causing a surge of condensation from the air Armour Class: -1
around it, creating a billing fog which shields it from Hit Dice: 5
attack and gives it a chance to escape. (-5 to hit). Attacks: 1 (Ram) / Stomp
Damage: 3d4 (Ram) / Special (Stomp)
Mephit Save: F9
Mephits are natural inhabitants of the Elemental Planes, Morale: 12 (Controlled) / 9 (Free)
and are a personification of their native element in the Hoard Class: XX
same manner as the greater Elementals. For many XP: 350
Elementalist, summoning Mephits is the height of their
ambition; unlike Imps, which occasionally cross over of Resembling nothing more than an armadillo, the Earth
their own volition, Mephits are never found on the Prime Mephit crawls across the ground, intent on its task. It has
Plane unless they have been summoned to it. They are the greatest resilience to alien environment, and has been
acutely uncomfortable outside their home plane, and will rarely known to try to extend the influence of its Element
return to it at the first opportunity. Some have been in other planes, such as Magma and Smoke. This
known to be driven mad by prolonged exposure to the creature, when it stomps the ground on alternate rounds,
Prime. Sometimes they do venture to a Quasi-Plane, but causes the Earth to shake under a target, sending him off
only for a short time and for a set purpose, usually to try his feet. (No action for that round).
and strengthen their home plane. If two Mephits from
rival planes (Earth to Air, or Fire to Water) meet, then
regardless of all controls, they will immediately attack.

Air Mephit Fire Mephit

Encountered: 1 Encountered: 1
Alignment: Neutral Alignment: Chaotic
Movement: 70' (Fly) Movement: 70' (Fly)
Armour Class: 3 Armour Class: 3
Hit Dice: 3 Hit Dice: 3
Attacks: 2 Claws / Breath Attacks: 2 Claws / Breath
Damage: 1d6 (Claw) / 3d6 (Breath) Damage: 2 Claws (1d6 + Burn) / Breath (3d6)
Save: F5 Save: F4
Morale: 12 (Controlled) / 6 (Free) Morale: 12 (Controlled) / 5 (Free)
Hoard Class: XIX Hoard Class: XIX
XP: 350 XP: 350

A large, sky-blue creature with large wings, that curl up A strange sprite-like creature, wrapped in fire, that darts
when the mephit is grounded. Two grasping talons lash rapidly around its environment without any apparent
out from the creature, which can either grasp a surface need for wings or other movement. Every third turn,
or attack. In form, the creature resembles a large pixie, breathes fire at a target, sheathing it in flames; it also
though with a dark countenance on its face. Every other shares the same flame touch ability of the Fire Imp.
round, it can unleash a devastating breath of wind on its
foes, sending them flying to the ground.

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 Water Mephit Dust Mephit
Encountered: 1 Encountered: 1 / 1d6
Alignment: Neutral Alignment: Chaotic
Movement: 60' (Swim) Movement: 60' (Flight)
Armour Class: 0 Armour Class: 0
Hit Dice: 5 Hit Dice: 6
Attacks: 6 Tentacles / Breath Attacks: 2 Claws / Breath
Damage: 6 Tentacles (1d4) / Breath (2d6) Damage: 2 Claws (2d6) / Breath (4d6)
Save: F6 Save: F9
Morale: 12 (Controlled) / 8 (Free) Morale: 12 (Controlled) / 6 (Free)
Hoard Class: XX Hoard Class: XIX
XP: 400 XP: 750

The most intelligent of the Mephits, the Water Mephit The Dust Mephit is often hard to see, covered by a veil of
appears as a large, tentacled, octopoid beast. It is unable dust that travels wherever it goes. Underneath, there is a
to function on land, but is a deadly adversary in water, gnarled, wizened, weather-beaten creature with vicious
and attacks using both its six tentacles and a strong jet of claws and a bad temper. While on the Prime, they love
water that shoots from its mouth. By far the rarest dusty and dry places, and these are the most common
Elemental Mephit on the Prime. outside their Plane. They do not walk on the ground, but
hover in the air, suspended by a plume of dust. Their
Quasi-Mephits breath weapon causes a blast of sand to sweep across
Quasi-Mephits are very difficult to conjure, but are anyone in its cone of effect (60'); this devastating effect
substantially more powerful than their Elemental can be used one per three rounds, but reduces the
brethren. They tend to be far rarer, but are more Mephit's AC to 6 for the next two, as the effect will
frequently found on neighbouring planes, generally disturb the shielding dust.
attempting to extend the influence of their Element to
new territory. No-one on the Prime has yet succeeded in Ice Mephit
conjuring up a Quasi-Elemental, but it is suspected that Encountered: 1 / 1d6
such creatures do exist. Alignment: Lawful
Movement: 20'
Armour Class: 0 (9 vs. Fire)
Hit Dice: 9
Attacks: 2 Claw / Special
Damage: 2 Claw (1d8) / Freeze Touch (2d6)
Save: F9
Morale: 12 (Controlled) / 8 (Free)
Hoard Class: XX
XP: 700

The Ice Mephit is not dissimilar to the Earth Mephit, but

is a magnificent translucent white, and with two angry
claws reaching up from underneath its carapace. It has
no breath weapon, but anyone touching it experiences
2d6 points of damage and grows deathly cold (-2 to all
actions for remainder of combat due to shivering.)

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 Magma Mephit Steam Mephit
Encountered: 1 / 1d6 Encountered: 1 / 2d6
Alignment: Chaotic Alignment: Chaotic
Movement: 20' (100') Movement: 60' (Fly)
Armour Class: 1 Armour Class: 0
Hit Dice: 6 Hit Dice: 5+1
Attacks: Touch / Ash Attacks: Steam Blast
Damage: Touch (2d8) / Ashburst (2d8) Damage: Steam Blast (3d6)
Save: F7 Save: F8
Morale: 12 (Controlled) / 10 (Free) Morale: 12 (Controlled) / 7 (Free)
Hoard Class: XIX Hoard Class: XIX
XP: 720 XP: 800

The Magma Mephit resembles nothing more than a Steam Mephits generally consider themselves the masters
large, molten boulder; it slithers along by melting the of all, and are incredibly haughty; alone among Mephits
earth underneath it and sliding along, leaving a trail of they seek to gain power over others. They hunt in large
molten rock in its wake. Although it generally moves packs, and select an 'Alpha Male' (with 10 HD – 10% that
slowly, it is capable of occasional (1 per day) bursts of a summoned Mephit is an 'Alpha', which will attempt to
extreme speed towards prey. It attacks by simply resist control) to lead them, often through a vicious
touching its target, and it can project a cloud of ash into process of selection. They have no melee attack, and take
the surrounding area (10' radius) causing damage to the form of dense clouds of steam with human-like faces
anyone in range. embedded in them. They attack by firing blasts of
superheated steam up to 25' away, spreading out by 5' at
the limit of their range.

Quasi-Planes
The Quasi-Planes exist between the normal Elemental planes, and serve as the neutral points between them. They are
tempestuous places, where two elements constantly fight for dominance, gaining and losing territory all the time. In
between Earth and Fire lies Magma, Smoke lies between Fire and Air, Steam between Air and Water, and Ice between
Fire and Earth. These 'Quasi-Planes' are difficult to get to, requiring an experienced Elemental practitioner, and are
rumoured to be the dwelling points for forgotten gods, hiding where no-one else would think to find them, creating
pockets of calm amid the tumult. The Mephits are the primary inhabitants of these planes, though many other
strange creatures and structures may lie within.

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 'X' Marks the Spot
Present on the treasure tables since the earliest days of Frankly, this will do. But if you want to do more, and you
D&D has been the humble treasure map – one of the have time (or the players are still arguing about that +1
more interesting methods of attracting the attention of Sword), then you can add further embellishments. Don't
players to a goal, and an item that can lead to a put any more landmarks on the map, but you can place
prolonged campaign if, of course, it has been properly some notes of beings in the area – here be Goblins, killed
seeded. Having on the random tables has, more than the Dragon here, that sort of thing. Draw in a very quick
once, meant that it has been rolled by harried DMs, only dungeon layout with an 'X' at the end of it, with just a
to be re-rolled as 'too complicated to worry about now'. few rooms and lines drawn in. (The actual dungeon can
There are two solutions for this – the first is to prepare a be much more involved than that, and you will have an
few treasure maps in advance, which is an option but opportunity to flesh it out later. This is simply meant to
can prove problematic. The treasure can prove to be of denote the route to the treasure itself. You can write what
no interest to the PCs, in which case an potentially the treasure is if you have an idea (or roll on the tables
interesting element has been wasted, or it can be so far provided), but this is not necessary. Feel free to write in a
away that it is simply filed for later use. What is the 'strange language', and force the PCs to have it
answer? deciphered.

Not ignoring it completely. Treasure maps can prove to Feel free to decorate it. Add some strange symbols to the
be an extremely interesting item, and can actually be side of the map, tear it on the sides to make it look more
prepared in just a few minutes. Call a five-minute break, real, or fold it over for a few minutes. But keep an eye on
or better still, encourage them to spend some time the group while you are doing this. As soon as it looks as
working out who gets the rest of the treasure, grab a if the group is ready to move on, time's up. Remember –
sheet of paper (if you don't have a pad of paper with you you will have plenty of time to embellish this later on,
behind the screen, then frankly, shame on you!) and get under most circumstances. Generally, the group will opt
started. to finish the adventure they are currently undertaking
before moving onto the next thing, so you should have
The first thing to remember is that treasure maps are the time in between sessions to fill in all the blanks on the
usually prepared in a hurry in any case. Those hiding map.
loot rarely hire cartographers to prepare their maps, but
they will want to find them again afterward. Also – the Except...players can be annoying. They might consider
scale of the maps will generally be pretty small, so not that this is the 'big adventure hook' you've been planning
much area needs to be covered. Pick three landmarks, all all along, or the idea of 'easy money' may cause them to
within a few miles of each other, and draw them quickly conclude that heading straight for the loot is a good idea.
on your map, in approximately the correct locations. At You could of course simply tell them that you haven't
least one of these should be fairly prominent and known finished preparing this part of the setting yet, but on the
to the PCs. (For extra fun, have one of the landmarks be other hand, it might be a shame to divert them from
something that no longer exists, such as a destroyed city, something that they are really interested in. Having a
burned-out forest, or dried-up river...) Then take the group of enthused and interested players can really make
pencil, and stab it down somewhere on the map, and all the difference to a game, and this should be
place a cross. encouraged. For those circumstances, simply roll on the
following tables, apply the results, and you are on your
way.

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 Table 1: Treasure Type
1: Money (Value of Average Party Level x 1D6 x 100gp)
2: Magical Item (Roll on Labyrinth Lord Magical Item Table)
3: Knowledge (The solution to an established campaign secret.)
4: Holy Relic (A Holy Symbol or Artefact appropriate to the faith of one of the PCs).
5: Spellbook (2d6 spells of Level 1d6.)
6: Special (Consult Table 6)

Table 2: Language of Map Table 3: Age of Map

1: Common 7: Orcish 1: Yesterday
2: Dwarven 8: Giant 2: Last Week
3: Elven 9: Goblin 3: Last Month
4: Halfling 10: Draconic 4: Last Year
5: Gnomish 11: Demonic 5: Last Decade
6: 'Old' Common 12: Secret Code 6: Last Century

Table 4: Map Form Table 5: Status of Writer

1: Paper 1: On his way to the treasure.
2: Parchment 2: Guarding the treasure.
3: Tablet 3: Looking for the map.
4: Wall Painting 4: Killed by a rival. Roll for the status of the rival.
5: Chalk Outline 5: Dead. (1 in 3 chance of heir seeking treasure map.)
6: Tattoo 6: In position of authority, unable to seek treasure.

Table 6: Special
1: The treasure has already been looted. (Roll on Table 3 to determine when.)
2: The treasure consists of items once valuable, now worthless. (Bronze Weapons, Paper Currency, etc.)
3: The treasure is a trap, set for the PCs by the enemy.
4: The treasure is a trap, set for another target.
5: The treasure map is the treasure, in disguise.
6: The treasure map is actually a test to judge the worthiness of the PCs.
7: The treasure map is a fake, drawn by a small child.
8: The treasure map is genuine, but can only be read once before it is destroyed.

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 M . B's Last Word
r
“This would sharpen you up and make you ready for a bit of the old ultra-violence.” Alex DeLarge

Let me ask you this, dear reader...what’s your body traditional fantasy basis goes back to Middle Earth, which
count? let's be honest, tends to be the basis for far too many LL
campaigns. Tolkien wrote that, “"all that race were bred
I wager that most of you have lost count of the number of by Melko (Melkor) of the subterranean heats and slime.
Orcs, Goblins, Dragons, Humans, Elves and Halflings that Their hearts were of granite and their bodies deformed;
have fallen victim to your sword or your spells – and I'm foul their faces which smiled not, but their laugh that of
not talking about crazy moments of the clash of metal, and to nothing were they more fain
world/continent/city-killing insanity (not much survives than to aid in the basest of the purposes of Melko."
one of my mad rampages. Just ask the 'mer-people'. Oh
wait – you can't.) I'm talking about the 'normal violence' So the default is taken that they are nothing more than
that takes place during a standard dungeon crawl. It's living weapons, bred for war and violence. But have you
like some sort of mad shopping list - “14 orcs, 4 bandits, simply made the assumption that this is the base-line, or
3 kobolds, 1 PC (Oops.) have you actually taken the effort to determine whether
they are inherently evil or not. Might they be Lawful-
Take the other way of looking at it. You are a family man, natured, or a mix, like good old humanity. Ever thought
quietly raising your kids, when a bunch of armed, about that?
armoured, spell-wielding psychopaths burst into your
home and your office and start putting your friends, Thought not.
loved ones, and bosses to the sword. (Maybe that last
part...) The life of the Orc – a Hobbesian nightmare. Back at the start of it all, in '74, they called the warriors
Nasty, Brutish and Short. Very Short. Especially when the 'Fighting Man, and the average PC in a fantasy setting
adventurers are in the room. Is killing an Orc justified might as well have 'Psycho For Hire' tattooed on his
because – well – it's an Orc? forehead. He's out for the killing and the cash, and
couldn't care less who he is fighting for, or why.
Why do we keep fighting them? We feel that we have a
'licence to kill', as most races have been given alignments. As gamers, we revel in combat. It's often one of the high
I wonder if this works in real life – can we go onto the points of a session, and more often the point with the
subway and kill anyone 'Chaotic Evil'? Or is everyone in greatest level of tension and drama. Some make this the
New York 'Lawful Good'? Of course they aren't, and of absolute soul of the game, turning into a tactical
course it doesn't! It should not work that way in any wargame. But this is not a wargame any more. Yes –
realistic sort of game. We don't an 'Adventurers for the that's where it came from, but that was thirty years ago.
Ethical Treatment of Dragons', but perhaps we should! You should get more XP for role-play than hack-and-
smash. There must be more to a game than that. Beating
Let's take another look at the poor Orc, who fantasy has up an Orc Horde can be cathartic, but there must be
typically cast as a 'soulless killer'. A race of serial killers something deeper to that wonderful thing we
and psychopaths. (No wait – that's adventurers...) The call...roleplay!

25

Joseph Conaway (Order #33554433)

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