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The Fane of Poisoned Prophecies

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by Guy Fullerton

AN ADVENTURE FOR CHARACTER LEVELS 4-6

For use with 1st Edition Advanced Dungeons & Dragons®

For years, lords and warriors have delivered riches to the remote Sun Temple in exchange for prophecies from
the mysterious oracle who dwells within. But of late, the oracle’s advice has soured.

Some say the oracle has gone mad and lost her powers. Others believe she has forsaken her allegiances and
seeks to collapse the kingdom. Rogues whisper of enormous piles of gold and jewelry within the Sun Temple –
perhaps no longer guarded. Wealth, power, and surprising secrets await those who dare explore the Sun Temple
and beyond!

Chaotic
Henchmen
Productions Copyright © 2009 Guy Fullerton, All Rights Reserved
This page has been left blank for
optimal display in Two-Up mode.
 DUNGEON MODULE F1

THE FANE OF POISONED PROPHECIES

by Guy Fullerton
AN ADVENTURE FOR CHARACTER LEVELS 4-6

Author: Guy Fullerton

Front Cover Artist: Peter Mullen
Back Cover Artist: Jason Braun
Interior Artists: Jason Braun, Andy “ATOM” Taylor
Editing: Pete Gontier, Bree Hann
Layout, Cartography, and Graphics: Guy Fullerton
Playtesters: Ian Bell, Michael Derry, Laura Lapinski, Kenny Smith

Special thanks to Lance Hawvermale and Allan Grohe for their encouragement and valuable
feedback.

Chaotic Henchmen Productions

www.chaotichenchmen.com
Copyright © 2009 Guy Fullerton, All Rights Reserved
Second Printing, PDF Version, September 21st 2012

Advanced Dungeons & Dragons and AD&D are trademarks of Wizards of the Coast, and are used without permission.
Chaotic Henchmen Productions and this product are not affiliated with Wizards of the Coast.
 be avoided. Note that some areas described herein are extremely lethal
INTRODUCTION to parties that act before they think, and even high level player
characters may die as a result of foolishness.
A half century ago, compelled by a geas from the moon goddess, the
elf Somgris began searching for a way to reach the moon itself. After Adapting the Module: The names of locations and deities have
consulting with many sages and poring over ancient tomes, Somgris been kept generic, so this module should be easily adaptable to most
discovered the magical formulae and mundane methods of campaign settings. Should the need arise, you might choose to use
construction for an earthly staircase that grants access to the distant Apollo as the sun god and replace references to the moon goddess with
lunar body during each full moon. Years later, after much effort and Selene.
considerable expense, Somgris finished the stair to the moon! Sadly,
Somgris fell to his death during the first attempt to ascend the stair. Starting the Adventure: Although there is a backstory to the
Somgris could not be brought back to life, so his allies took up the task locations, creatures, and situations described this module, no specific
of completing the journey. After more experimentation and research, plot should be forced upon those who play it. The players should be
the human Andril Strong Arm successfully ascended the stair and free to interact with the environment as they see fit, allowing their own
reached the lunar body, starting the first of several expeditions on the goals to arise naturally. Some may be inclined to act with altruism
moon. (liberate the temple or try to rescue the oracle), while others may be
selfish (acquire treasure or power), and yet others may explore the
The moon goddess requires subtlety and guile from her followers, so to locations simply to satisfy their curiosity. These are all fine goals, and
protect the secret of their lunar staircase, Andril and the rest of the this module can support all of them and more.
allies oversaw the construction of a fortress surrounding the stair. They
activated magical locks that limit the seasons in which the stair can Here are some hooks that might draw the player characters into the
function, and they bargained for the services of otherworldly creatures adventure:
who could act as guardians within the structure. To mislead casual
observers, the allies also fashioned the outermost parts of the structure 1. Having oracular needs of their own, the player characters might
to appear as though they were devoted to the sun god. As a reward for seek information from the oracle at the Sun Temple, only to find
the allies’ efforts, the moon goddess bargained with the sun god, who her response unsatisfying. While doing so, they may find clues that
in turn blessed those portions of the structure that were devoted to all is not right in the area.
him, thus creating a consecrated Sun Temple that masks the interior’s
true lunar purpose. 2. A local ruler recently received bad advice from the oracle (actually
the werewolves), and seeks to reclaim the gift he had offered her.
And so the secret was kept, lasting beyond the natural years of the The emissary he sent a month ago has not returned, and now the
allies, save one: A wise and learned woman possessing the gifts of ruler offers a standing reward to any who might bring the gift back
prophecy and premonition. Living within the temple and with no to him by whatever means necessary.
interest in either exploration or adventure, this nameless woman made
known her services as seer and oracle to the rulers of nearby 3. The existence of an oracle at the remote Sun Temple is no secret,
dominions. Slowly, word of this new oracle’s insights spread, and she and those who know of the oracle also know that she gives advice
has earned many a gift from those seeking her advice. The oracle’s only in exchange for generous gifts. Unsavory individuals in the
abilities have even become known to those who inhabit the moon! back corners of dark taverns might tell stories that tempt greedy
player characters into trying to steal this wealth for their own,
Some few months ago, the moon’s self-proclaimed king of werewolves especially after hearing rumors that the oracle has died and left her
learned of both the oracle and the staircase that bridges the moon to treasure ripe for the taking!
the world below it. He sent a gang of kin to descend the stair and
kidnap the oracle in hopes that he could compel her to reveal a means 4. A crossroads pub expects monthly deliveries of wine from the
for lunar lycanthropes to assume human form, for on the moon, small winery near the Sun Temple, but hasn’t received a delivery in
lycanthropes are locked in their animal forms, unable to surreptitiously three months. The wine is popular with the locals and profitable
intermingle with humans. Though the gang lost some of their number for the pub owner; after hearing the pub owner’s lamentations and
to hazards in both the lunar and terrestrial realms, they ultimately offer of a small reward for restoring the deliveries, the player
delivered the oracle to the king of werewolves. Presently, the oracle characters may seek adventure or profit.
stubbornly refuses to comply with his demands, so the king of
5. Followers of the sun god or moon goddess may receive visions that
werewolves bides his time, pondering tortures that might convince her
the temple on the remote Alcaverna Plateau has been blighted and
to cooperate.
needs cleansing. Followers of the moon goddess may even be
Back in the terrestrial Sun Temple, a gang of lunar werewolves lazily instructed to find their way to the moon via the temple.
searches for clues that might be useful to their king. They have even
begun to provide oracular services at the Sun Temple, although their
predictions are a sham, and the suspicions of local rulers are growing.
THE SUN TEMPLE PRIOR TO THE
Rumors suggest that the oracle is either insane or has lost her powers,
and no one knows what the oracle has done with the treasures she WEREWOLF DESCENT
received over the years.
Should you wish the player characters to have the opportunity to visit
Wealth, power, and surprising secrets await those who dare explore the the Sun Temple prior to the werewolf gang’s arrival (or if/when the
Sun Temple and beyond! oracle is restored to power at the temple), the following describes how
visitors are handled. Some of this information may also be acquired
from previous visitors or via speak with dead on temple staff
corpses.
NOTES FOR THE DUNGEON MASTER The general temple staff knows that the oracle is fair and reasonably
Player Character Levels: The Fane of Poisoned Prophecies is kind, but they have no details about the temple or the oracular
appropriate for five to seven characters of 4th to 6th level. Clever play, activities other than what they absolutely need to accomplish their day-
subterfuge, and superior strategy should allow even a small, low-level to-day tasks. Certainly they are well aware that the temple includes
party to survive the module, since many of the potential combats can areas consecrated to the moon goddess, and that the temple is
2
protected by various magics, but only the oracle and her two assistants
know that the temple structure supports a stair to the moon.

Visitors are welcome at the winery, the well, the temple’s North
Entrance and adjoining rooms (areas B1 through B4), as well as the
aboveground areas of both the Sunrise and Sunset Shrines (areas A8
and A10). Temple staff working nearby are 50% likely to notice visitors
investigating other outside areas. If the visitors look suspicious, 1-2
temple guards (0 level human men-at-arms with chain mail, spears,
and crossbows) are summoned. Otherwise, the staff greets any visitors
and directs them to a more appropriate location.

The oracle and her assistants keep the wards activated at all times in
the Narthexes and the Warded Intersection (areas B15, B18, B22, and
B24), and escort visitors through those areas on the rare occasions it
becomes necessary. A member of the temple staff activates the ward in
the Moon Corridor (area B7) every evening before bed, and the oracle
or an assistant deactivates it in the morning before the staff head out
for work. The temple staff know how to activate the wards but not how
to deactivate them.

The oracle ventures outside only rarely, and usually in dress that makes
her appear as one of the mundane staff. The staff is careful to not
identify her as the oracle while she is outside in such a disguise.

The protocol for requesting advice from the oracle is not intended to
be obvious. It is passed by word of mouth from client to potential
client, and although the temple staff has learned a detail or two about
the process, they have been instructed by the oracle not to share any THE WEREWOLF GANG
such knowledge with visitors.
As mentioned in the background, the werewolves aren’t performing
Clients are expected to leave both their written question and a gift (i.e., their king’s bidding with much verve. They are supposed to be looking
payment) on the altar in the Fane of Wisdom (area B4) before dusk on for information that could coerce the captive oracle to into providing
a particular day. The gift is expected to be commensurate to both the advice for the king of werewolves. But being far out of the reach of
client’s means and to the client’s desire for detail in the response. their cruel master means the werewolves have little reason to labor,
Royalty and wealthy adventurers are expected to offer valuables or especially since they have learned that some temple rooms contain
items worth several thousand gp, whereas a destitute beggar’s gift deadly guardians. For the most part, they are now enjoying what
might be as little as a whittled wood trinket. While waiting for a amounts to a decadent holiday.
response, clients are expected to leave the temple. They may camp
outside or seek shelter at the winery. However, the werewolves do spend some effort trying to maintain a
semblance of oracular activity at the Sun Temple. By searching the
After the sun has set, the oracle views the Fane of Wisdom via the oracle’s rooms, observing visitors that come to the area, and
scrying pool in the Sanctum (area B20). If the area is safe and the interrogating temple staff (before eating them or infecting them with
client has followed the protocol, one of her assistants enters the Fane lycanthropy), the werewolves have a basic understanding of how the
via the secret door, collects the question and gift, and returns to the oracle dealt with clients. They have found the secret passage between
Sanctum. That night, the oracle and her assistants formulate and the Sanctum (area B20) and the Fane of Wisdom (area B4), they know
compose a response. The oracle then uses her signet ring to stamp the how to scry on the Fane (but not other locations), and they write
parchment with moonlight ink (see Special Materials and Items). In responses on the oracle’s fine parchment. However, they have no idea
the morning, prior to dawn, the oracle again scries on the Fane of about marking the responses with the oracle’s signet ring, they don’t
Wisdom and sends an assistant through the secret door to set the always deliver responses prior to sunrise, and they know very little
response on the altar. about the terrestrial world and the lands surrounding the temple, so
After sunrise, clients may reenter the Fane of Wisdom to find a their responses have been unsatisfactory to recent visitors.
response, which is always in the form of calligraphy on fine The werewolves have explored the northeastern area of the Sun
parchment. Sometimes the response is cryptic or in verse, especially for Temple, and although the temple staff revealed how to activate the
parsimonious clients. Rarely, the oracle is unable or unwilling to ward paintings (see Part 2 –  Key to the Sun Temple), the
provide advice, and in these cases a terse written explanation is werewolves haven’t figured out how to deactivate them. They have not
provided and the gift is returned to the altar for the client to reclaim. entered the Western Narthex (area B22) since an initial attempt that
The Oracle: SZ  M; AC  10; MV  12"; HD  0  level with -3 on attack killed two of their kind, so they know nothing of the rooms beyond it.
rolls; hp 3; #AT 1; Dmg 1-2; AL N; XP 8. The oracle has supernatural They haven’t braved the Northern Narthex (area B18), for they
talents for prophecy and premonition along with Int and Wis scores of correctly assume more guardians will materialize, and because they
20. She has skill with many sorts of divination devices. She wears a have already cleared the Eastern Narthex (area B15), which allows
chandryx amulet (see Special Materials and Items). access to the other rooms in the area. The werewolves are not aware of
the Underground Tunnel (area B13).
Young Assistants (2): SZ M; AC 10; MV 12"; HD 0 level with -2 on
attack rolls; hp  2  each; #AT  1; Dmg  1-2; AL  N; XP  7  each. Each The werewolves are willing to parley and are prepared to strike a
wears a chandryx amulet. bargain with a group that wishes to explore the dangerous areas of the
temple, so long as the agreement is favorable to the werewolves. At
minimum, the werewolves expect to receive an item of their choice
from any recovered loot, as well as full disclosure of any information
found. In exchange, the werewolves offer safe passage through the
3
portions of the temple that they control. However, if the werewolves Moonlight ink: This non-magical liquid appears to be completely
feel that they have the upper hand over a returning group (especially if normal water. However, when applied to a surface, the liquid acts as
the group is obviously weakened from the exploration), they are quick secret ink that can only be viewed in direct moonlight. The oracle
to renege on the agreement by demanding additional tribute, imposing secretly marks her responses with this ink using her signet ring so that
new restrictions, or possibly even attempting to capture or kill the she may later identify forgeries. A vial of moonlight ink costs 500 gp,
group. and can be bought from some alchemists and major temples of the
moon goddess.
Because they are not eager to die for their king, if an overwhelming
force threatens the werewolves, they will retreat through the moon stair Scorpion statuette: This 6 inch tall blue marble statuette depicts a
at the earliest available opportunity, taking whatever treasure they can scorpion and radiates strong conjuration/summoning magic. When it
reasonably carry. is set on the ground and the command word “assail” is spoken, the
statuette transforms into a living giant scorpion (MM p. 85) that attacks
For ingress and egress, the werewolves typically use the ceiling opening as directed by the owner. The command word “await” puts the
for the staircase in the Chamber of Ascent (area B21), climbing up and statuette into a guard mode whereby it transforms when a creature
down the outside of the temple assisted by a rope (area A7). The other than its owner approaches within 50 feet; it attacks and pursues
werewolves also use the staircase opening for discarding trash, intruders, returning to its statuette form in its previous location, if
dumping chamber pots, and similar. Only rarely do they use the North possible, once all intruders have been killed or driven away. The
Entrance (area B1), and they never use the East Entrance (area B5) command word “abate” causes the giant scorpion form to return to
because of the ward in one of the corridors leading to it. The statuette form; this command may be spoken by anyone, not just the
werewolves go outside infrequently except to hunt at night (1-3 of owner. Damage taken by the giant scorpion cannot be cured by
them hunt each night) and to change shifts at the Lookout (area A2). healing magic, but it regains 1 hp each full day it remains in statuette
form. If the giant scorpion form is reduced to 0 or fewer hp, it
immediately returns to statuette form and breaks apart, forever losing
its magical power. It is worth 2500 gp.
SPECIAL MATERIALS AND ITEMS
Chandryx (stone from the moon): Several locations in the module
feature objects made from chandryx, a milky stone with gentle hints of PART 1 – KEY TO THE
blue that glows faintly under direct sunlight, and which is native only
to the moon. Unless the player characters have previously encountered SURROUNDING COUNTRYSIDE
it, or until they gain clues about it from this module, the players should
not be told exactly what the material is or where it originates. To
dwarves and player characters with a background in mining, chandryx RANDOM ENCOUNTERS
appears unlike any stone they have ever seen or heard of before.
Despite the kidnapping of the oracle, the surrounding countryside
Chandryx amulets: Fashioned from chandryx in the shape of a disc remains relatively safe. However, visitors do arrive at the temple from
(2 inch diameter, 1/2 inch thick) and hanging from a silver chain, these time to time, and it is possible to encounter the newer residents of the
amulets serve two main purposes in the Sun Temple: They allow the area outside of their keyed locations. In the latter case, if any such
lighting stones to function, and they allow the wearer to pass residents are eliminated, be sure to adjust the corresponding keyed
unharmed through activated ward areas. Both of these effects are location accordingly. Check for the possibility of random encounters
described in Part 2 – Key to the Sun Temple. Although the amulets’ every six hours by rolling 1d20:
presence triggers or alters certain magical effects, the amulets are not
magical in and of themselves. For their materials and workmanship, 1-2: 1 Hill Giant from the Winery (area A3).
the amulets are worth 100 gp. 3-5: 1-3 Giant Flies from the Cesspit (area A6).
6: During the day, 1 Werewolf in human form (if possible) from
the temple. At night, 1-3 Werewolves from the temple
hunting in animal form.
7: During the day, 2-7 pilgrims seeking to worship at the Sun
Temple. At night, no encounter.
8: 1-4 visitors seeking knowledge from the oracle. 50% chance
that they know the correct protocol for requesting advice and
carry at least 100-1000 gp worth of valuables. In this case,
they are either accompanied by 2-8 men-at-arms, or they are
of sufficient level to protect themselves from theft.
9-20: No encounter.

A1. PATHWAY

A foot and wagon track cuts through the grass and brush. It is at least
five feet wide, and up to ten feet wide in some places. Player characters
that carefully examine the occasional muddy areas find both boot
prints and paw prints that travel both directions on the path. Rangers,
druids, and characters with tracking abilities can tell that wolves made
the paw prints.

A2. WEREWOLF LOOKOUT

One werewolf in human form lurks at this hidden lookout to intercept

and size up visitors. The vantage point allows the werewolf to spot an
approaching group up to a quarter mile away, giving it enough time to
4
surreptitiously join the pathway, start traveling northwest, and While on a hunting expedition, the pair broke into the vacant
eventually hail the visitors. It poses as a client returning home after winery, sampled the product, and decided to stay. Although they
receiving advice from the oracle. have plenty to drink, their food is running low, and they have been
venturing out occasionally to look for sustenance. When
The werewolf wants to divert or weaken the visitors, and suggests that encountered here, they are 50% likely to be intoxicated (-1 to
trouble is afoot at the winery; he tells them he heard screams coming attacks).
from the winery when he first arrived, and again just a short time ago
as he was leaving. When the visitors move on, the werewolf quickly The hill giants placed caltrops around the barn door entrance as
(move 15") circles back to the Sun Temple, climbs the back side (see well as around the doorway to the Tasting Area (location b), and
area A7), alerts the other werewolves of the approaching group, and camouflaged them with hay and other debris. Anyone unaware of
then returns to the lookout. If the werewolf is unable to assume the caltrops is 50% likely to step on them when using one of those
human form, it doesn’t initiate contact with the group, but still alerts entrances. Those who step on the caltrops take 1 hit point of
the other werewolves and returns to the lookout. If a superior force damage and must save versus paralyzation or shriek in pain,
attacks the werewolf, it attempts to flee back to the Sun Temple. waking any hill giants that are sleeping here. When intoxicated, the
hill giants themselves are 20% likely to step on the caltrops when
The werewolves change shifts every sunset and sunrise, and the long coming or going through the barn doors.
shifts and boredom mean the lookout is 20% likely to be asleep when
visitors arrive. Hill Giants (2): SZ  L; AC  4; MV  12"; HD  8+2; hp  42, 39;
#AT  1; Dmg  2-16; SA  hurl rocks for 2-16 damage; AL  CE;
Werewolf: SZ M; AC 5; MV 15"; HD 4+3; hp 15; #AT 1; Dmg 2-8; XP 1856 each; MM p. 45. The first giant’s bag contains 6 rocks for
SA surprise on 1-3; SD hit only by silver and magic weapons; AL CE; hurling, a 30 foot coil of strong rope, a scimitar in its scabbard,
XP 310; MM p. 63. Wears a platinum armband worth 300 gp. and 102 sp. The second giant’s bag holds 5 rocks for hurling and
69 gp.
A3. WINERY d. OVERSEER’S QUARTERS: Here, the bed and nearby floor are
stained with blood, the blankets, pillow, and mattress are ripped,
The winery building is 25 feet tall and constructed of stonework and
and white feathers are scattered around the room, in evidence of
timber. A cobblestone walk leads from the main pathway to a wooden
the winery overseer’s murder at the hands of werewolves on the
door at the southern tip of the building, past a few windows, and then
night of their arrival. The wooden door has obviously been forced,
beyond to an attached stables whose door has come off. From there,
with splintered wood around the jamb. However, the rest of the
the path curves to the back of the building where a pair of tall barn
room is still in order. A stack of cut wood stands next to a fireplace,
doors is set on the center of the east face.
an oil lamp sits on top of an oak dresser that contains work clothes,
The three acre vineyard to the east has not been tended in several and a chair sits in front of a modest desk, upon which lies a
months, and inspection reveals damaged trellises, overgrown areas, and corkscrew, a pile of papers, a ledger, and a thick book. The papers
grapes rotting on the vine. Anyone investigating the northeast section include recent wine sales information, shipping records, a list of
of the vineyards finds a dried mud patch stamped with several supplies to be purchased, and a key to the numbered barrels in the
enormous (20 inch long) humanoid footprints. Aging Racks (location e) that reveals the sort of wine in each. The
ledger contains growth and harvest records for the last 9 years;
a. STABLES: The smashed door lies on the ground outside the these are grouped by the lunar cycle, and the last entries are on the
stables, next to the small wagon. Within the structure are two stalls, day of a full moon three months ago. The thick book is a farmer’s
each of which contains a primitively butchered horse carcass. almanac.
Large chunks of each carcass have been eaten by the hill giants in
the Pressing Room (location c). Bales of hay and bags of oats are e. AGING RACKS: Having no windows, and being on the north end
stacked up in the corner. Pegs on the wall support a pair of saddles, of the structure, this long room is dark and chilly. It smells strongly
and below that is a variety of tack. of oak and cork. Both long walls feature floor-to-ceiling reinforced
racks of oak barrels. The racks have room for 70 barrels, but there
A pair of giant flies nest in the mess. They aggressively investigate are only 49 here, and each of them is numbered. Only 12 of the
anyone or anything entering the structure, but they attempt to barrels are full; the rest are empty and awaiting use. Each full
escape if threatened by fire or wounded. barrel of wine is worth 300 gp and weighs 600 pounds. A sliding
rope, pulley, and harness system is mounted to the rafters, and is
Giant Bluebottle Flies (2): SZ  M; AC  6; MV  9"/30"; HD  3; used to retrieve barrels. A 20 foot tall wooden ladder leans against
hp  15, 18; #AT  1; Dmg  1-8; SD  jump; AL  N; XP  75  each; the northern racks. Each hill giant drinks half of a barrel of wine
MM2 p. 65. each week, so if the hill giants are left alone, they will slowly
deplete the remaining supply.
b. TASTING AREA: This cozy room features a wooden table, four
comfortable chairs, and a fireplace. Oil paintings of local vistas f. STORAGE: This crowded room holds assorted equipment for
hang on the walls. running and servicing a winery, including crates, bottles, corks,
gardening gear, and tools.
c. PRESSING ROOM: The 9 foot tall barn doors swing outward.
Unless the doors are open, this large open room is dark, cool, and
moist, even during the height of the day. Only a few small
windows let in light, and they are set near the eaves. Two massive
wooden tubs (8 feet in diameter and 5 feet tall) stand here, used for
the crushing and fermenting of grapes, and each has an attached
ladder for scaling the sides. Both are one quarter full of over-
fermented grapes. The sickly sweet smell of wine turning to
vinegar mingles with the musky and sweaty odor of two hill giants
who moved in a few weeks ago. Their bedrolls and personal effects
are spread out between the wooden tubs and the wall opposite the
barn doors, and a dozen empty barrels haphazardly litter the area.

5
A4. WELL player characters’ aid; the faun does not reveal the secret until after
aid is received.
This circular stone well has a wooden roof with a hand crank, pulley,
rope, and bucket. c. SUNDIAL / MOONDIAL: In the midst of a field of zucchini
and summer squash stands a 3 foot tall, 2 foot diameter granite
Hanging from a metal hook on the inside of the roof is a silver holy sundial adorned with carvings of leafless trees and sleeping
symbol of the sun god worth 50 gp. This holy symbol is very close to squirrels. Its 18 inch diameter steel face shows the numbers 4
the apex of the roof, and is not obvious from a casual glance. As long through 20 (corresponding to the hours of 4 a.m. through 8 p.m.)
as this or any other holy symbol of the sun god hangs here, the water around a stylized grinning sun design. The sundial’s base has been
in the well is completely protected from contamination. Even putrid turned such that it displays a time that is approximately 2 hours
water added to the well becomes instantly pure. Treat this as a later than the actual time. This temporal discrepancy is not
continuous purify food and drink spell cast at 25th level that affects apparent unless the viewer has some way to know the actual time,
as much water as this well can hold (but only water, not food). While so or has experience with sundials. The sundial / moondial radiates
protected, the entire well radiates faint alteration magic. strong alteration magic and controls whether the lunar staircase
functions correctly during winter, and in its current state, winter
The water level is 20 feet below ground level, and the bottom of the operation is unsafe. (See Part 3 – Climbing the Staircase for more
well is another 25 feet below that. At the bottom of the well are 2 gp, 2 details.) To restore correct winter staircase operation, two
sp, and 15 cp, as well as a waterproof pouch containing two metal adjustments must be made:
flasks (a philter of persuasiveness, and a potion of invisibility)
and a black pearl worth 500 gp. 1. The moondial face must be revealed and secured in position.
Careful examination of the sundial face – by twisting, pushing, or
checking for seams – establishes that it is connected to the granite
A5. GARDENS at a few pivot points. Rotating the face clockwise 1/8th of a turn
A post and wire waist-high fence encloses two acres of trees and plants, allows it to be flipped over via an embedded spoke, revealing the
along with a shed. A well-worn gate affords entry from the south. Life moon symbol face on the other side. Once the face is flipped to the
and fertility are palpable here, and the air carries the scents of rich soil moon side, rotating it counterclockwise 1/8th of a turn secures it
and many crops. Having not been tended in some months, and being in the horizontal position. Instead of displaying hours, the
subject to various pests and rough treatment from the werewolves, the moondial face shows the moon at various intensities and heights
gardens are obviously in poor shape. Some areas are overgrown, and over the horizon; a waxing crescent moon peeks over the horizon,
the formerly neat rows of plantings are now in disarray. gradually becoming fuller and higher until the full moon is at the
northernmost point, and then gradually fading until a waning
a. LESSER ORCHARD: A stained glass butterfly (see below) crescent moon sets in the southwest. The moondial’s gnomon is a
flutters amidst the dozen young orange, apricot, and plum trees miniature version of the crinkled spire staircase that juts up from
that grow here. the top of the Sun Temple.

b. TERRA COTTA FAUN: Between rows of strawberry and 2. The sundial / moondial must be calibrated to show the correct
cantaloupe plantings is an overturned terra cotta statue depicting a time. This can be done with either the sundial or moondial face
perturbed faun. The statue is 6 feet tall in total, the figure being 4 showing, and requires the viewer to orient the number 12 (for the
feet, and the base comprising the rest. Nearby, camouflaged within sundial face) or the full moon (for the moondial face) with true
a strawberry plant, rests a bronze olive wreath with a green patina. north. Note that magnetic north is often different from true north,
Both the statue and the wreath radiate faint enchantment/charm so a compass is only sufficient at the Dungeon Master’s discretion.
magic, for they are linked. As long as the olive wreath rests upon North can be absolutely determined by observing the shadows
the head of the faun, the statue is magically animated, although created from sunlight (or moonlight); when the sun (or moon) is at
not ambulatory, for at least one of its hooves must always rest on the highest point in the sky, shadows created from its light will
the base. point due north.

When animated, the faun thinks of itself as custodian of the When both of these changes are made, and as long as they persist,
gardens, for that is the only world it knows. Its awareness goes no the moon glows in the winter relief in the Chamber of Ascent
further than the bounds of the gardens and those natural things (area B21).
that affect it, such as the sun, air, clouds, and so forth; such is the
limit of the magic that animates it. The faun greets gardeners, d. GREATER ORCHARD: Olive, chestnut, apple, and pear trees
points out areas that need tending or harvesting, and occasionally grow here. A trio of short (3 foot tall) soapstone statues stands at
frightens away birds and pests by shouting or throwing rocks. Its the western edge of the trees. They are badly worn, but appear to
general knowledge of the Sun Temple and the oracle is practically depict diminutive robed humans playing lyres and singing.
nil, although it learned two secrets by eavesdropping: A secret Carnivorous flying squirrels make their homes among the trees,
passage connects the Sun Temple and the Sunrise Shrine, and supplementing their diet with the readily available nuts and fruit.
some magical paintings in the temple are activated by the phrase, The squirrels glide down to aggressively attack any human-size or
"your help is needed." The faun only reveals those secrets to those smaller creatures that venture here, so long as the squirrels
who help restore the garden, as described below. outnumber the potential prey by at least 2 to 1.
The faun had been animated for many years until the werewolves The tallest (40 feet tall) chestnut tree has a hollow portion used as a
toppled it three months ago. (Hence the perturbed look on its face. nest by one of the squirrels. The opening is 5 inches in diameter
The faun doesn’t know what the werewolves are, and refers to and 25 feet above the ground. Along with grasses, leaves, and a
them only as wolves.) Upon being reanimated, brought upright, cache of chestnuts, the nest also includes a brass key whose handle
and allowed to take stock of the gardens, its mood becomes glum is cast in the shape of a weeping skeleton face.
at the sight of the garden’s disarray and it fusses over the work
needed to restore the gardens to the former state. If the player Carnivorous Flying Squirrels (6): SZ  S; AC  8; MV  9"/15";
characters volunteer to tend the gardens (which takes one day) HD  1-7  hp; hp  2, 7, 5, 3, 5, 6; #AT  1; Dmg  1-2; SA  "Flight"
without being explicitly asked by the faun, it shows its gratitude by attack, surprise on 1-4; AL N; XP 14 each; MM2 p. 114.
revealing both secrets. If the faun has to explicitly ask for help, it
offers one secret (the existence of the passage) in exchange for the
6
e. CEDAR SHED: This pleasant-smelling shed holds a variety of
garden-related items, tools, and fence repair supplies. Amidst the
mundane items are a silk net (see below), and a copper
watering can, which radiates dim conjuration/summoning
magic and pours directly from the Well (area A4).

f. VEGETABLE ROWS: These northwestern plots include

tomatoes, peppers, and beans. Also periodically hopping about the
place is a toad coffer (see below), whose extra-dimensional space
is presently filled with a chandryx amulet.

g. HERB BEDS: Along with many varieties of conventional herbs

(rosemary, mint, thyme, chives, licorice, etc.), three unique plants
grow here:

Maternid: This woody herbaceous plant has needle-like leaves,

grows 2 feet tall, and blooms with pink bell-shaped flowers. When
a female humanoid ingests one dose of the fresh leaves over the
course of a week, her chance of conception is doubled for the next
month. 5 doses grow here, and they replenish at the rate of 1 per
week.

Hestern: This 3 foot tall bush is spindly and the oil of its narrow
leaves smells of horseradish. If 20 of its small brown berries (one
dose) are crushed, infused in boiling water, and then consumed empty quiescent state once again. By itself, the toad coffer
within 1 hour, the drinker is fully refreshed as though they had a fetches 1000 gp as a magical curiosity, but with its two accessories
full night’s sleep. To make up for this borrowed time, the drinker’s (the stained glass butterfly and the silk net) it is worth ten
next normal sleep cycle must be twice the normal length. Until the times that amount. It radiates faint enchantment/charm and
drinker catches up in this way, further doses of brewed hestern alteration magic.
force the drinker to save versus poison or fall into a coma that lasts
1-4 weeks. During all seasons except winter, the plant here grows a Stained glass butterfly: This palm-sized blue and white glass
total of 4 doses, replenishing at the rate of 1 dose every other accessory to the toad coffer flits to-and-fro around the area,
week. occasionally landing for a few moments – sometimes even on a
person. Although the butterfly allows itself to be observed, it does
Turlik’s Hands: This dark green plant has heavy veined leaves and not allow itself to be caught, and it reacts so quickly that no
grows very close to the ground. Holding an ounce of the leaves mundane method can snare it. In addition, it is 95% resistant to
under the tongue for a day heals 20% (rounded up) of the subject’s magic, so it is likely to avoid magical means of entrapment. The
total hit points. Each one-ounce dose is good for a single day’s proscribed way to catch the butterfly is to hold the silk net and
healing. It is potent in either fresh or dried forms, though the dried stand still while the butterfly is near; in 1-4 rounds the butterfly
leaves lose their potency after 6 months. 10 doses grow here, and lands on the carrier of the net and allows them to grasp it with
they replenish at the rate of 5 per week. their hand. Note that the butterfly certainly does not allow anyone
to ensnare it with the net! The stained glass butterfly radiates
All three of these plants are tied to the influence of the sun god in dim alteration magic, and it is worth 100 gp by itself as a curio.
the region, and will not grow elsewhere. A sheet of parchment in
the Pantry and Cook’s Quarters (area B14) depicts these unique Silk net: This accessory to the toad coffer is made of wood,
herbs and describes some of their properties; without first reading copper, and silk, and appears to be a child’s insect net – though is
that information and comparing it to these live specimens, only 3rd the perfect size for adult gnomes. It is an aid in catching the
level and higher druids can recognize that these are unique plants. stained glass butterfly, although it is not possible to actually
Druids won’t automatically know the properties of these plants; ensnare the butterfly within the net. By itself, it is worth 25 gp,
they just realize the plants are never-before-seen varieties. mainly for the fine silk. The silk net radiates faint enchantment/
charm magic.
Three of the garden locations above contain magic items that are
related to one another. They are described together here:
A6. CESSPIT
Toad coffer: This bulbous, 8 inch long green marble toad
sculpture is one part animated statue and one part extra- This shallow, foul-smelling pit contains putrid muck and a number of
dimensional storage device. In its empty state, the toad rests festering corpses, many of which have been partially eaten. A bloody,
quiescent with its mouth agape. A handful of items may be placed tipped over wheelbarrow lies at the edge of the pit.
within, causing the toad’s mouth to close and magically depositing
the items within an extra-dimensional space. In this filled state, the Prior to the werewolf gang’s arrival, this cesspit served as a general
toad becomes whimsically animate. So long as the toad is not rubbish heap for the temple’s inhabitants. After the raid, for lack of a
directly observed, it will periodically croak and hop about the area better location, the werewolves deposited the dead bodies here. What
such that anyone nearby will see it move only out of the corner of was formerly a merely unpleasant odor is now completely noxious, and
their eye and will only hear it only when their back is turned; while most creatures who spend more than one round here start to retch;
observed, the toad rests motionless and silent. On the first croak until leaving the area, a suffering creature receives a -2 to attacks, AC,
after a deposit, a stained glass butterfly is released from the and saves and is unable to cast their highest-level spells.
extra-dimensional space. To recover the items deposited in the The cesspit contains a total of eleven dead creatures: 1 rust monster
extra-dimensional space, the stained glass butterfly must be (wearing a number of straps, collars, and tethers), 2 werewolves in
held by the wing within 3 feet of the toad, which then lashes out its human form, and 9 actual humans. The latter group includes staff
tongue and swallows the butterfly. Upon doing so, the toad opens from the temple and a few recent visitors, some of which have been
its mouth to reveal the previously deposited items, and enters its partially eaten by the werewolves before being deposited here. The rust
7
monster corpse and one of the werewolf corpses died during the initial the amphitheater, and faces east so that onlookers might view the sun
descent of the lunar staircase; the rust monster panicked during the and moon rise up from behind the slab. The surface of the stage-like
descent, and fell to its doom, pulling its werewolf handler with it. The area upon which the altar rests is mere inches above ground level. The
other werewolf corpse died fighting a guardian lammasu in the whole shrine radiates faint magic of an indeterminate variety, and is
Western Narthex of the temple (area B22). composed of the same amber-hued granite as the Sun Temple.

Anyone touching the bodies must make a save versus poison or The altar is 4 feet tall, and is primarily engraved with symbols relating
contract a disease. After two days, an affected creature suffers -2 to to the sun, although there are also diagrams depicting vision, birth,
attacks, AC, and saves and is unable to cast their highest level-spells. growth, plants, and harvest. Runes are engraved on the top of the
The disease can be treated with constant bed rest, good food, and altar, and are oriented such that one would naturally face east to read
plenty of fluids, and doing so will cure the disease within 1-4 weeks. If them. Read magic reveals the message: "The brilliant body rises to
left untreated, the affected creature must save versus poison every week look upon paths not yet taken."
or die.
The runes are a clue for how to gain entry into the secret
Since the addition of the dead bodies, giant files have prospered here, Underchamber (area A9). As long as light from the rising sun or rising
with giant larvae crawling on and around the foul mess. The giant flies full moon shines directly upon the eastern-most section of the edge of
swarm anyone in the area, attacking (biting) anyone entering the the shrine (marked with an X on the map), an archway comes into
cesspit or carrying any source of obvious food. They are, however, existence there, which distorts the local vertical dimension and grants
ultimately quite skittish. Any damaged fly keeps out of melee range, access to the Underchamber 30 feet directly below. (The
but still stays within the general vicinity in hopes that the threat leaves. Underchamber side of the archway is also marked with an X on the
Similarly, the flies all stay out of the melee range of any creature map.) If thick clouds (10% chance at each rise) or other obstructions
carrying a lit torch or otherwise near an equivalent source of fire. prevent direct light from shining onto the designated point, the
archway will not appear. The rising sun (or full moon) lasts only from
Giant Bluebottle Flies (10): SZ  M; AC  6; MV  9"/30"; HD  3; the instant it peeks over the horizon until it is fully visible, which takes
hp  12, 9, 14, 20, 17, 14, 6, 13, 11, 10; #AT  1; Dmg  1-8; SD  jump; 3 rounds, after which the archway vanishes. Player characters entering
AL N; XP 75 each; MM2 p. 65. the archway may be trapped inside and unable to exit until the next
rising of the sun or full moon.
A7. SUN TEMPLE
A9. UNDERCHAMBER
The Sun Temple is a circular ziggurat with three tiers, the bottommost
rising 30 feet with a diameter of 260 feet, and the upper two each This circular chamber is constructed of amber-hued granite, with 10
rising 20 feet and having diameters of 150 and 90 feet. Like a crinkled foot high walls and a domed ceiling that is 20 feet high at the apex. A
spire, an impossibly narrow and steep staircase juts up another 50 feet panoramic set of carvings on the walls depicts leafy trees, adult and
above topmost tier, putting the apex at 120 feet above ground level. It adolescent horses, oxen and goats grazing on grasses, and a sun blazing
is built of closely fit amber-hued granite blocks, and is modest in its high in the sky. Three brass spheres and three steel rods rest on a shelf
design, with vertical ridges every 20 feet along the exterior walls. cut into the north part of the wall. Four columns help support the
domed ceiling and also demarcate a 20 foot by 20 foot square area at
Steps lead up to the arched North Entrance (area B1), which is set five the center of the chamber, where the floor is decorated with a tile
feet above ground level. During sunny days, those who approach this mosaic of a white, blue, and gray full moon on a black background
entrance from due north see a bright glow within it. The East dotted with silver stars.
Entrance (area B5) is similarly constructed, but it is not visible from the
north-south pathway. Even less obvious is the roof entrance; the ceiling The center of the moon mosaic is pierced by three small holes (1/2
opening for the Chamber of Ascent (area B21) allows access to the top inch diameter), arranged in a north-south line and spaced 3 feet apart.
of the temple and vice-versa. The northern and southern holes are 1 inch deep, and the center hole
is 2 inches deep.
Numerous narrow apertures dot the eastern and northern parts of the
roof of the first tier. These 3 inch diameter shafts are cut at various The brass spheres are 2 inches, 6 inches, and 18 inches in diameter.
angles and provide light, air, and even water to some of the chambers Each has a 1/2 inch diameter, 1 inch deep hole in it. The large sphere
inside. They are typically 10 to 20 feet long, and may thus be used to is mostly hollow and weighs 40 pounds. The medium sphere is likewise
eavesdrop on the corresponding rooms. See Part 2 –  Key to the Sun mostly hollow, weighs 5 pounds, and is marked like a globe, etched
Temple for more details on these shafts. with world’s continents and a line around the equator, with the hole
being at one of the poles. Player characters with strong knowledge of
A rope dangles down the south side of the temple, leading up all three the world’s geography can determine that the hole is at the south pole.
tiers and to the opening into the Chamber of Ascent. The werewolves The small sphere is partially hollow and weighs 1 pound.
use this rope as their primary means of ingress and egress. It is 250 feet
long in total and is secured with five iron spikes that have been The steel rods are approximately 3 feet, 4 1/2 feet, and 5 1/2 feet long.
hammered into the roof granite near the opening so that it may be If the player characters measure them precisely, they are 37 inches, 55
easily drawn back by anyone nearby. This rope is not obvious from a inches, and 65 inches long. They are 1/2 inch in diameter, and taper
distance, for it hangs next to the vertical ridges, but it can be easily slightly at both ends, allowing them to fit snugly into the holes in the
spotted by anyone inspecting the entirety of the perimeter at ground brass spheres as well as in the holes in the moon mosaic. Note that
level. although the center hole in the moon mosaic is 2 inches deep, the rods
are only tapered enough to be inserted half that far.
A8. SUNRISE SHRINE The moon mosaic radiates strong alteration magic and controls
whether the lunar staircase functions correctly during summer, and in
The Sunrise Shrine is a raised, 50 foot diameter amphitheater its current state, summer operation is unsafe. (See Part 3 – Climbing
circumscribed by twelve columns, each of which is 20 feet tall and 2 the Staircase for more details.) To restore correct summer staircase
feet in diameter. Steps lead up from the pathway to the 5 foot tall operation, the steel rods must be inserted into the small holes in the
circular edge of the amphitheater, upon which the columns stand. mosaic floor, and the brass spheres positioned on top of the rods in
Inside the edge, and descending toward the east are broad tiers that such a way as to precisely model a full moon at its lowest point during
can serve as seating. An arc-shaped altar stands at the lowest point of
8
summer in the northern hemisphere. Thankfully, the model’s intended The sarcophagus lid weighs 350 pounds. Within the sarcophagus is
arrangement is somewhat intuitive, making it possible to guess the the plate mail-clad corpse of the elf Carnabi of Morlo, who has
correct arrangement even without knowledge of astronomy. been dead for 549 years. A scattering of red sardonyx gems
surrounds the corpse. There are 95 such stones, each worth 50 gp.
The correct arrangement is as follows: The longest (65 inch) steel rod Around the corpse’s neck is a gold amulet of proof against
must be placed into the northern hole, with the largest (18 inch detection and location with a closed-eye motif.
diameter) brass sphere perched atop it. The medium (55 inch) steel rod
must be placed into the middle hole, with the medium (6 inch The half-orc corpse wears leather armor and a backpack, which
diameter) brass sphere atop it. And finally, the shortest (37 inch) steel contains spoiled food, a full waterskin, thieves’ tools, three torches,
rod must be placed into the southern hole, with the smallest (2 inch and 120 gp. She died 6 months ago, without any apparent physical
diameter) brass sphere atop it. When the model is correctly arranged, trauma.
and as long as it stays that way, the moon glows in the summer relief in
the Chamber of Ascent (area B21). The statue is actually an iron golem tasked with preserving the
sanctity of this tomb. If anyone disturbs the sarcophagus or its
The 4 foot square secret door in the northwest section of wall opens contents, or attempts to deface any part of the chamber (including
into the Underground Tunnel (area B13), but is locked. The spiking open the door), the iron golem steps out of the alcove to
mechanism to unlock it is built into the center hole in the moon destroy the interlopers. By leaving the alcove, the iron golem steps
mosaic. This hole is twice as deep as the other two, and its bottom is a off of a pressure plate, and by doing so causes the door to swing
button that – when firmly pressed with a narrow rigid object – unlocks closed and lock. This is achieved via 5000 pounds of gradual force,
the door. The steel rods are insufficient for this purpose because they which is 50% likely to dislodge or break each spike that might pin
don’t taper enough to reach the bottom of the hole. At the Dungeon the door. The door unlocks and may move freely when the 5000
Master’s discretion, any narrow dagger, wand, or similar object pound iron golem returns to the alcove after eliminating the
suffices. A knock spell or similar magic also works, of course. Once interlopers (and restoring the treasure and lid of the sarcophagus
unlocked, the door may be pushed open (swinging into the as necessary), or when any other object or objects of similar weight
Underground Tunnel), but unless spiked or otherwise secured, it closes is placed on the pressure plate. The iron golem will not pursue any
automatically in one round and re-locks after one turn of disuse in its interloper that manages to escape the chamber, even if that
closed state. There is no handle or unlocking mechanism on the side of interloper carries treasure from the sarcophagus.
the door that faces the Underground Tunnel.
The ceilings in the shrine are high enough for the iron golem to
fight in melee without penalty, although it must stoop to get
A10. SUNSET SHRINE through the doorways.

The Sunset Shrine is a series of chambers built from limestone and Iron Golem: SZ  L; AC  3; MV  6"; HD  18; hp  80; #AT  1;
covered by a massive earthen mound, which is in turn carpeted with Dmg 4-40; SA poison gas; SD hit only by +3 weapons, immunity
grasses and other local vegetation. Originally built as an elf family to most spells; AL N; XP 14550; MM p. 48.
tomb, the structure is more than a thousand years old, but was never
used by the creator or her family. During the past millennium, a few
unrelated elves have been interred here, and so their tombs feature
engravings and decorations that are younger than the rest of the
structure. Ceilings in the Sunset Shrine are 15 feet high, and doors are
10 feet tall and 5 feet wide. The doors swing either direction and are
weighted such that they close automatically in one round, unless they
are spiked or otherwise pinned open.

a. ENTRANCE: These double limestone doors and entryway are

situated 5 feet up the mound. A message in elvish on the lintel
reads, "With ample memories, we cherish those within. With
ample strengths, we guard them."

b. LOBBY: Dried leaves, grass, pebbles, and the occasional branch

are scattered here, having been blown or otherwise tracked in
while the doors were open. The stone double doors to the Balcony
(location g) are decorated with a radiant sunset design made of
hammered brass. Large brass holy symbols of the sun god are
mounted on either side of the doors. Four black marble statues of
solemn elves stand against the walls. Save for the southernmost
tomb, the lintel over each tomb door has been carved with elvish
writing; see the individual tomb locations for specifics.

c. TOMB OF CARNABI: The elvish writing on the lintel reads,

"Carnabi of Morlo."

A marble sarcophagus lies at the center of the room. Its sides are
inscribed with imagery of palm and papyrus trees, and its lid
shows a nondescript humanoid with a featureless face. In front of
the sarcophagus is the fallen corpse of a half-orc female. Lying
next to her are a crowbar, a footman’s mace, and a burnt torch.
Completely filling a semicircular alcove at the back of the chamber
is a 12 foot tall iron statue of a jackal-headed man wearing foreign
garb that accentuates its musculature.

9
d. TOMB OF SILVRIN: The elvish writing on the lintel reads, At the Dungeon Master’s discretion, the carving could be the
"Silvrin Trollbane – She Fought With Elegiac Fury." opening mechanism for a magically operated secret door that leads
to deeper dungeons. See the similar carving in the Antechamber
The walls of this tomb are carved with sylvan scenes, and are (area B25) for a possible method of operation.
painted with shades of fern and forest, with highlights of auburn,
sepia, and copper. The floor is colored like moss, and the ceiling The lid of the sarcophagus weighs 300 pounds. Its long sides and
like dark clouds. At the center of the chamber and anchored to the lid are each etched with the same five moon pattern that is shown
floor is a stone sarcophagus whose sides depict subterranean on the northwest wall, except they are arranged in a straight line
landscapes, with still pools, leaning fungous masses, and creeping instead of an arc. The short sides each depict a mirror-imaged pair
insect monsters, all etched with horizontal striae, and painted in of crescent moons. Near the base along all four sides is a repeating
navy, indigo, myrtle, and cerulean. The lid depicts a cloaked horizontal pattern of the moon shapes, although each shape is
female wood elf warrior with a sword in each hand, and has been merely 1 inch tall, with a gap representing the new moon between
painted in a dreary, though lifelike manner on a background of each set. Six of the small full moon shapes – two on each long side,
indigo. and one on each short side – are buttons. If all six are pressed
simultaneously, a fist-sized hatch opens near the bottom of the
Close study of the images depicted on the north wall for 3 turns or sarcophagus on the end nearest to the door, revealing a narrow
more reveals a foot-tall likeness of an elf hiding amongst the trees. diagonal compartment containing a spear +2. The six buttons
This elf ’s head is a button that, while pressed, deactivates a trap on radiate dim alteration magic and glow brightly in the direct
the sarcophagus. presence of a chandryx amulet.
The sarcophagus lid’s edges overlap the base by a full foot, and the Inside the sarcophagus is the body of the elf Somgris, who wears
bulk of the lid is 3 inches thick. As a result, the lid is extremely shriveled silk robes. Next to him is a spear, cursed backbiter, a
heavy, weighing 1000 pounds. If any amount of this weight is glass vial containing a potion of healing, and a hollow ivory
removed from the base without holding down the elf ’s head button tube worth 90 gp that holds a scroll of protection from
on the north wall, spring-mounted blades scythe out from between undead. Resting on the corpse’s abdomen is an ebony box
the striae on the sides of the sarcophagus. They attack everything containing a silver brooch in the shape of a leafless tree, which is
within 3 feet of the sides of the sarcophagus as a 12 HD monster actually a scarab of death. The ebony box is worth 250 gp.
for 1d8+4 damage + poison. The blades reset and re-coat with
poison when the lid is set (or is dropped) onto its proper position on Somgris has been dead for 35 years. If speak with dead or
the base. Note the trap will also spring if the elf ’s head button is similar magic is used to communicate with the deceased elf, he can
released while the lid is off the base. provide the information in the background up to the point of his
death. He does not know whether the staircase was successfully
Within the sarcophagus is the desiccated elf body of Silvrin completed, or of the existence of the Sun Temple.
Trollbane, who has been dead for 821 years. Her garments have
disintegrated to tatters, but the two swords at her side still appear f. UNUSED TOMB: This chamber is unused. There is no
serviceable. The first is a long sword +1, cursed and the second sarcophagus within, and the walls host neither relief nor
is a short sword +1. decoration.

g. BALCONY: This broad landing provides a splendid view of the

lands to the southwest, and – more importantly – the sunset.
Although there is no altar here, the top of the narrow, waist-high
southwest wall is marked with dark smudges and is dotted with bits
e. TOMB OF SOMGRIS: The elvish writing on the lintel reads, of wax, indicating its prior use during ceremonies. A pair of brass
"Somgris, our Inspiration and the First to Walk the Stair." braziers also stands here, worth 50 gp each. They are stamped
with sun imagery and show signs of use.
Reliefs, carvings, and writing decorate the long walls, and an
embellished chandryx sarcophagus rests in the center of the
chamber.
PART 2 – KEY TO THE SUN TEMPLE
The reliefs on the northwest wall depict a male elf warrior sitting
in an open field with his legs crossed. A spear rests across his lap, General Features: The walls, floors, ceilings, doors, and stairs of the
and a crescent moon periapt dangles from his neck. Above his temple are constructed of amber-hued granite. Unless otherwise
head and arranged in an arcing pattern are five moon shapes. specified in a particular room or hallway description, the structural
From left-to-right they are a waxing crescent, a first quarter moon, qualities are as follows: Room walls are 10 feet tall, and ceilings gently
a full moon (directly over his head), a last quarter moon, and dome to 15 feet high at the apex. Hallways are only 8 feet wide, with 7
waning crescent. foot high walls, and arched ceilings that are 8 feet high at the center.
Doors are 6 1/2 feet high, 3 feet wide, and 3 inches thick, and are
On the southeast wall are three lines of elven script: weighted such that they gently swing closed on their own. They are
Though you fell as the first, you were not the last. fitted with cast iron handles with thumb-operated latch releases, but
Friends undertook your quest and completed the journey. they have no locks. They open into rooms, with hinges toward the
With this vessel, you may rest in our shared triumph! nearest adjoining wall, and in the case of circular rooms, hinges are on
the right when viewed from within the room. Although loud sounds
Below the writing is a carving of three circles arranged (such as combat) can be heard through a single closed stone door, such
horizontally, and of increasing size from left to right, with an noises do not travel through a second closed door. Stairs are extremely
etched line crossing through all three: steep and are composed of 6 inch tall, 3 inch deep steps. Each staircase
ascends twice as high as the distance it travels horizontally.

Combat Restrictions in the Hallways: Because the hallways are

narrow and have low ceilings, it is not possible for two elf or man-size
combatants to wield wide- or high-swinging weapons (such as swords
and halberds) side-by-side in the hallway. In general, this means a side-
10
by-side pair must use thrusting weapons or short chopping weapons. B2. SERMON CHAMBER
Smaller combatants are not restricted in this way, nor are one smaller
combatant and one elf or man-sized one. This worship room features a granite and brass pulpit on a half-circle
dais, which is flanked by four mahogany pews with polished brass
Light Shafts and Air Shafts: Some of the less-secure rooms of the ornamentation. Two thigh-high soapstone holy water fonts flank the
temple (mainly in the north and east sections of the structure) feature 3 north archway; they are empty.
inch diameter shafts that let in air and light into the rooms, while
allowing smoke to escape. These are cut at a variety of angles, are 10 The concave mirrored brass front on the pulpit reflects and
to 20 feet long, and bring a modicum of sunlight (equal to torch light) concentrates sunlight that shines through the many light shafts in the
into the rooms for as little as 6 hours each day in the winter and 10 ceiling. During bright, clear days, a visible beam shines northward into
hours each day during the summer. the North Entrance hallway (area B1). Creatures who suffer penalties
for operating in light or sunlight are affected doubly while illuminated
Lighting Stones: In many of the secure rooms of the temple by the beam.
(roughly speaking, the Narthexes and any room that you must pass
through a Narthex to get to), the ceilings are set with several magically
enhanced chandryx stones which automatically react to the visible B3. SHRINE OF THE SUN GOD
presence of chandryx amulets by glowing with the equivalent
brightness of a light spell. In order to trigger nearby lighting stones, a A 10 foot tall yellow and white marble statue of the sun god dominates
chandryx amulet must be worn openly; covering, hiding, or the room. It stands near the eastern wall and looks toward the western
enclosing the chandryx amulet prevents it from triggering the archway with its face gazing downward and arms outstretched in a
lighting stones. Lighting stones radiate dim alteration magic. pose that suggests both grandeur and kindness. Although the ceiling
does not contain any light shafts, the room is still quite bright and
Wards: Several areas within the complex are protected by warding warm, for the statue’s eyes beam radiant sunlight into the center of the
magic that – when activated – causes one or more creatures to prevent room. Carved murals on the walls convey esteem for growth,
intruders from moving through that area. For these purposes, an agriculture, and life.
intruder is anyone not visibly wearing a chandryx amulet. Each
warded area’s description explains exactly how the creature or The eye beams create the equivalent of a continual light spell,
creatures deal with intruders. except that only a 10 foot radius area is illuminated, and the real
warmth of sunlight is generated. At sunrise each day, each creature
Each ward is activated and deactivated by a specific ward painting resting in the illuminated area heals 1 hp. In addition, the efficacy of
located elsewhere within the temple. These magical oil paintings each healing magic is doubled so long as the recipient is within the
depict the sort of creature that protects the corresponding area. When illumination. If the statue is somehow removed from the temple, the
a ward is inactive, the corresponding ward painting shows the back magical eye beam effect no longer functions.
of the creature’s head and shoulders; speaking the phrase, "your help is
A mated pair of six-foot long venomous snakes lives here and enjoys
needed" to the painting causes the likeness to turn around, revealing its
the constant warmth and regenerative properties of the room. They
face, which then nods to acknowledge the request. To deactivate a
have a cluster of eggs at the foot of the statue. The snakes are
ward, the phrase, "thank you for your service" must be spoken to the
interested only in preservation of themselves and their nest, and they
painting, causing the likeness to turn around again. The background in
typically have no interest in creatures the size of typical adventurers.
each painting is an amber-hued granite dungeon wall. Each is worth
However, they hiss a warning at anyone who enters the room, and
200 gp for its artistry.
attack to defend the nest if anyone approaches within 10 feet. There is
a 20% chance that one of the snakes is outside hunting when the PCs
RANDOM ENCOUNTERS enter; this snake returns in 1-3 hours and is very likely to attack anyone
near its mate or the eggs.
For the Sun Temple’s entrance areas, use the random encounter chart
from the Key to the Surrounding Countryside to determine whether Poisonous Snakes (2): SZ S; AC 6; MV 15"; HD 2+1; hp 12, 15;
any nearby creatures are active therein. For the internal areas #AT 1; Dmg 1 + poison (paralysis for 1-4 days); AL N; XP 285 each;
controlled by the werewolves, check for random encounters every six MM2 p. 111.
turns; there is a 50% chance of encountering 1-4 werewolves from
nearby rooms, and a separate 10% chance of encountering either the
disenchanter from the Eastern Narthex (area B15) or the azer and
hobgoblins from the Guests’ Quarters (area B17). A few room
descriptions also contain explicit details for how to handle random
encounters with their occupants. There are no random encounters in
the other areas of the Sun Temple, until or unless the various wards
are neutralized, at which point the aforementioned chances of random
encounters apply.

B1. NORTH ENTRANCE

Both long walls feature wide murals that are illuminated during the
day by light shafts. The west wall is painted with a maroon, fuchsia,
and mauve sun setting into an azure ocean, and the east wall is painted
with an orange and gold sun rising behind umber mountains.

During sunny days, concentrated sunlight beams down this hallway

from the reflective face of the pulpit in the Sermon Chamber (area
B2). At its brightest, the light is strong enough to force creatures in the
hallway to avert their eyes. Creatures who suffer penalties for operating
in light or sunlight are affected doubly while illuminated by this beam.

11
 B6. SUN CORRIDOR

Shallow waist-high alcoves line the east and west walls, and each
contains a locally grown or crafted offering to the sun god. At the
south end of the corridor, stands a half-scale polished bronze statue of
the sun god riding a chariot pulled by four galloping horses. During
the day, the whole hallway is brightly illuminated by light shafts, some
of which come from the north and use mirrors to bring in the light.

The statue weighs 700 pounds, comes apart into 6 pieces (the sun god,
the chariot, and each of the four horses), and is worth 10000 gp.
Anyone removing it from the Sun Temple is cursed such that they
cannot see while any amount of sunlight shines on them. This curse
can only be removed by restoring the statue to its rightful place in this
corridor, followed by a remove curse spell cast by a 12th or higher
level cleric of the sun god.

B7. MOON CORRIDOR

This corridor is cooler and darker than the adjoining areas. Heavy
black velvet curtains hang in front of the two entrance archways. No
light shafts are present here, but the corridor is softly lit by five glowing
3 foot diameter chandryx discs that are set into the walls. A pair of
bipedal tiger warrior statues stands at each end of the corridor.

The glowing discs are similar to lighting stones, except they are only
equivalent to candlelight, and the presence of a chandryx amulet is
not necessary for them to magically glow. Each disc represents a
different phase of the moon by glowing only from the appropriate
portions: First quarter moon (left half glows, middle of the west wall),
waxing gibbous (left 3/4 glows, on the west wall opposite the east
archway), full moon (entire disc glows, south wall of the hallway), last
quarter moon (right half glows, middle of the east wall), waxing
crescent (left sliver glows, east wall opposite the west archway). A sixth
B4. FANE OF WISDOM chandryx disc is set into the north wall of the hallway, but does not
magically glow, and represents the new moon. Because of the
Here, a startlingly pungent smell and a camphoraceous odor unsettle arrangement of the discs, there is more light at the south end of the
the senses and speed breathing. The smells waft upward from a variety corridor than at the north.
of wicker and glass vessels set at the flanks of a squat granite altar
whose sides are covered with blood-red hand, ear, and mouth prints, The bipedal tiger statues are actually caryatid columns, and they wield
many of which appear to be made by children. Behind the altar stands short bows and long spears. Their thrusting weapons allow each pair to
a 5 foot tall whitewashed stone statue depicting a bald, androgynous fight in melee side-by-side despite the narrow corridor.
human wearing only a tunic. The statue covers its eyes with its hands,
If activated by the tiger ward painting in the Commons (area B8),
and its mouth is open slightly as if to speak. The walls are densely
the four caryatid columns are programmed to prevent anyone from
packed with runes, symbols, and other writing. Every language familiar
entering the hallway from any direction, save those openly wearing a
to the common races is represented, and each bit of writing translates
chandryx amulet, or accompanied by such a person. Note that the
to the same phrase: "The Oracle aids only those who appreciate
tiger ward painting has already been activated at the start of the
knowledge and understand its value."
adventure. The caryatid columns first verbally warn those who enter
During the day, the room is lit only dimly by the six light shafts in the that they must instead leave, then they close to block progress,
ceiling, for they have been partially clogged with dried branches. attempting to push back the intruders. Finally, they attack intruders if
other methods prove unsuccessful, or if they are attacked in any case.
The harsh odors come from large quantities of smelling salts and tea
tree oil, and reduce the odds of successfully performing meticulous Caryatid Columns (4): SZ  M; AC  5; MV  6"; HD  5; hp  22  each;
work by half, including careful searching, disarming traps, and casting #AT  1; Dmg  2-8; SD  reduced damage from weapons, and weapons
most spells. that hit it may break; AL N; XP 280 each; FF p. 18.

The secret door in the southwest corner swings into this room and is
formed from a 3 foot wide, 5 foot tall section of the wall. The side of B8. COMMONS
the door facing this room has no handle and the wall is smooth, so it is
A dozen light shafts keep this combination lounge and eating area well
difficult to open from within here. It is doubly locked (see area B20), so
lit during the day, while three large wrought iron candle chandeliers
two knock spells are necessary to completely unlock it from the Fane
hang from the ceiling for light at other times.
of Wisdom side.
The lounging area at the north end features sturdy oak tables,
comfortable padded chairs, a dark leather couch, and other pleasant
B5. EAST ENTRANCE
accessories. A mural of the winery and vineyards is painted on the
The underside of the entrance lintel is engraved with, "In the east He north wall, and a broad oil painting of a bustling seaport hangs on the
shall rise." The words are oriented to be read by persons exiting the west wall. The latter is of exceptional quality and is worth 100 gp. It
temple. also radiates dim magic (thanks to a Nystul’s magic aura spell), but
it has no magical function.
12
 This is the residence of the temple’s scullery maid, presently the
werewolves’ servant and hostage. She contracted lycanthropy during
the original werewolf assault and is now a werewolf herself, albeit a
weak one. She stays in human form except when enraged or when
compelled by the moon. She holds onto some of her former human
mindset, though with each full moon and the involuntary form change
that comes with it, she inches closer to eternal wickedness. When she is
not working (or pretending to work) elsewhere, she is here resting.

Her treasure consists of a leather drawstring pouch containing gems

(three flawed star rose quartz worth 30 gp each, and a very small topaz
worth 200 gp) that she discovered in a dead guard’s footlocker. It is
now stuffed inside her pillow on the southernmost bed.

The scullery maid wants nothing more than to save her own skin and
escape, and is willing to reveal her knowledge of the werewolves’
The south end of the chamber serves as a dining area. Four 15 foot numbers, their comings and goings, and their locations in order to
long, heavily-worn pine dining tables fill the space, along with eight achieve her goal. She reacts to nearby sounds of combat by retreating
benches of similar length, all arranged to seat as many as 40 people. here and sliding one of the dressers to block the door. If the gang of
The tables are cluttered with dirty plates, cups and utensils, stained werewolves retreats to another part of the temple or leaves it entirely,
napkins, and all manner of spoiling, smelly refuse. she retreats here, recovers the gems, and looks for a chance to exit the
temple on her own.
On the middle of the south wall hangs a 2 foot wide, 3 foot tall oil
painting of the head and torso of a female bipedal tiger. This tiger Scullery Maid / Werewolf: SZ M; AC 5; MV 15"; HD 4+3; hp 12;
ward painting is associated with all of the caryatid columns in the #AT 1; Dmg 2-8; SA surprise on 1-3; SD hit only by silver and magic
Moon Corridor (area B7). It is currently activated, with the front of the weapons; AL CE; XP 310; MM p. 63.
tiger’s face showing in the painting. It radiates dim abjuration magic.
On the back of the painting, three words are written, one above the
other: "abate," "assail," and "await." B11. GUARDS’ QUARTERS
Two werewolves lounge here, ostensibly as guards in case intruders Three ceiling shafts provide feeble light during the day to this shared
enter from the east. Although they are supposed to be alert and in bedroom. Four bunk beds are arranged against the walls, but none of
human form, they are not very disciplined; if they are surprised, they the mattresses are present, and the blankets, sheets, and pillows are
are 50% likely to be in animal form. There is also a 10% chance that piled haphazardly in the center of the room. Two footlockers rest by
the scullery maid is here serving food or pretending to clean. See the each bunk.
Housekeepers’ Quarters (area B10) for her details.
All of the footlockers have locks, but only two are locked. Each one
When intruders enter, the overconfident werewolves feign friendship contains sundry clothes and worthless mementos. One of the locked
and try to lure the “guests” to the lounging area. Once the intruders’ footlockers also contains a concertina (worth 5 gp) that wheezes
guard is down, the werewolves isolate a weak or obviously wounded harshly. Removing one end of the concertina reveals a burlap pouch
intruder and then suddenly attack with broad swords. They switch to containing a deck of marked playing cards with a sylvan motif (worth
animal form and attack with natural weapons once they have the 2 gp), a pair of ivory dice with red daggers for pips (worth 100 gp), and
upper hand in combat. 12 pp. Once the sack is removed from the concertina and the end is
reattached, it plays properly.
Werewolves (2): SZ M; AC 5; MV 15"; HD 4+3; hp 19, 20; #AT 1;
Dmg 2-8 or by weapon; SA surprise on 1-3; SD hit only by silver and
magic weapons; AL  CE; XP  310  each; MM  p.  63. Each wears a B12. KITCHEN
platinum armband worth 200-500 gp and carries a broad sword.
Cookware and foodstuffs litter a maple worktable and a butcher block
in the middle of the room, as well as various shelves bolted to the walls.
B9. WORKROOM Ovens, stoves, a firewood niche, and a cistern are built into the east
wall. Ventilation shafts above the ovens and stoves draw out smoke,
Once a well functioning storage, laundry, dishwashing, and general- while drainage shafts channel water into the cistern. Six light shafts are
purpose labor room, this chamber now stands in chaotic disarray. cut around the perimeter of the room, providing ample working light
Broken dishes, greasy cookware, and mounds of laundry – some of it during the day. A 2 inch diameter drain is cut into the floor directly
stained with blood – are heaped on the floor, a pine worktable, and a under the worktable, leading to a deep crevasse under the complex.
work stove, while cleaning implements and household supplies spill out
of a storage wardrobe against the wall. The plentiful illumination from The cistern is cut 3 feet into the wall, is 3 feet wide, and starts 3 feet
the light shafts brings no cheer to the room. above floor level. It descends 20 feet below the floor, and is filled to
capacity, just one foot below the lip. An overflow drain is cut into the
The scullery maid is here 40% of the time, allegedly working, though back wall of the cistern immediately above the water line. A copper
she usually loafs until one of the werewolves demands something of lever protrudes from the wall face below the cistern opening. When
her. See the Housekeepers’ Quarters (area B10) for her details. lifted, the lever opens a drain at the bottom of the cistern; the water
takes 1 turn to drain.
B10. HOUSEKEEPERS’ QUARTERS A narrow door is built into the eastern wall at the very bottom of the
Three small, tidy beds sit with their heads against the west wall, with cistern. The pivoting slab of stone is 1 1/2 feet wide and 4 feet tall, has
short dressers opposing each one. Though modest, the room is neat a handle cut into it, and pulls inward. The weight and pressure of the
and clean, and fresh air from the three light shafts gives this dormitory water prevents the door from opening as long as the cistern contains 2
a hospitable feeling. feet or more of water. The door leads to the Underground Tunnel
(area B13).
The dressers contain only clothes and personal grooming effects.
13
B13. UNDERGROUND TUNNEL

This cramped, roughhewn tunnel gradually slopes downward to the

southeast and travels over 500 feet, taking advantage of a few natural
fissures along the way. As a result, it bends and turns in several places,
making it impossible to see more than 100 feet ahead at any point.
Human-size creatures must travel single file through the majority of
the tunnel’s length.

The northwest end of the tunnel terminates at a small worked stone

door that opens into the cistern in the Kitchen (area B12); if the cistern
is not empty, the door cannot be opened. The southeast end of the
tunnel stops at a 4 foot square locked stone door without an obvious
locking/unlocking mechanism; it leads to the Underchamber (area
A9).

At the midpoint of the tunnel lies the curled corpse of a burglar whose
gear includes a lantern, leather armor, a hammer, a dagger, boots of
elvenkind, and a backpack containing thieves’ picks & tools, two glass
flasks (holy water, potion of diminution), a magic user scroll of
detect evil, and 188 sp.

Five years ago, the burglar schemed to rob the temple by sneaking in creatures enter, the disenchanter rises from its bed of pillows, flips over
via this secret tunnel. However, by the time the burglar discovered that a small sand clock and sets it on the ground, and then issues an
the cistern door would not budge, the Underchamber door had re- ultimatum:
sealed itself, imprisoning him in the tunnel forever. With no hope of
survival, the burglar went mad and died of starvation. Now his cruel "You have one minute to feed me magical objects of sufficient
spirit haunts the tunnel as a spectre, lusting for life energy and eagerly power to satisfy my hunger. If you fail, my demonic master will
investigating any activity here. materialize and consume your souls."
Spectre: SZ  M; AC  2; MV  15"/30"; HD  7+3; hp  33; #AT  1; The disenchanter only declares its hunger satisfied once it receives a
Dmg  1-8  +  energy  drain  (2  levels); SD  hit only by magic weapons, magical weapon or a bundle of magical missiles of at least 10 in
immune to poison, paralyzation, and some spells; AL  LE; XP  1965; number, either of which it disenchants immediately. It also
MM p. 89. immediately disenchants any potions or armor given to it, but the
werewolves have instructed it to collect – but not disenchant – other
sorts of magic items in case those items are important to their search.
If faced with a fight, or if the sand clock is about to run out, the
disenchanter attempts to disenchant a single item and then flees.
B14. PANTRY AND COOK’S QUARTERS
If creatures continue through the north door after appeasing the
Wooden shelves against the west wall hold all manner of preserved and disenchanter, the disenchanter holds open the east door for an hour so
dried foodstuffs, while a pine log bed and matching dresser, desk, and as to prevent the creatures from retreating back through this room.
stool fill the rest of the room. The dresser and desk are cluttered with
personal effects. Disenchanter: SZ  M; AC  5; MV  12"; HD  5; hp  18; #AT  1;
Dmg  disenchant; SD  hit only by magic weapons; AL  N; XP  318;
Inside a recipe book on the desk is a folded sheet of parchment with FF p. 27.
labeled sketches of maternid, hestern, and turlik’s hands, as well as a brief
description of each herb’s powers: "Boosts female fertility," "drink brew
of 20 berries to feel rested," and "hold under the tongue for healing"
respectively. Also on the desk is a stumpy crock containing four small
bundles of dried turlik’s hands with three months of potency remaining. B16. GREAT ROOM
See the Herb Beds (location g of area A5) for more details on the
herbs. This irregularly shaped room smells of mildew, rotting meat, and rust.
It is dimly lit by a wooden candelabrum that sits on a large mahogany
table near a group of five mattresses along the east wall. Two more
tables stand in the center of the room, cluttered with food remnants,
and haphazardly arranged with a half dozen matching chairs. A
B15. EASTERN NARTHEX painting hangs on the south wall near the west door, and four tall, wide
reliefs decorate the walls of the central area. Six lighting stones are
Bloodstains and concentrated areas of charring mar the floor and walls set into the ceiling, with four in the central area and one near each
of this circular chamber, which is lit by four lanterns that hang from door.
wrought iron stands. A bed of pillows and carpets lies near the
northwest wall. The ceiling is set with four lighting stones. The interior door handles are thoroughly wrapped with leather and
canvas strips that completely cover the iron hardware. This covering
Structural locks prevent each of the four doors from opening unless the also holds down the thumb latches such that the doors are unlatched
other three are closed. There are no keyholes or other accessible and will swing when pulled (from the inside) or pushed (from the
mechanisms for unlocking the doors; the only way to unlock and open outside).
a door is to close the other three. If knock or similar magic is used to
unlock a door, the other doors close automatically. Each piece of furniture breaks or collapses under strain, for many of
the nails appear to have rusted away. In fact, the room is almost
This is now the home of and sentry point for a disenchanter who came completely devoid of metal, for any such object has either been
from the moon as an ally of the werewolves. When unfamiliar
14
consumed by the rust monster (see below) or moved to the Oracle’s only in self-defense until one side appears to have an upper hand, at
Quarters (area B19). which point they join the winning side.

The reliefs are as follows: Azer: SZ  M; AC  2; MV  12"; HD  5+4; hp  37; #AT  1;
Dmg  5-10  (mallet)  or 4-9  (javelin); SA  heat; SD  immune to fire;
Northwest Wall: A plate-clad human (Andril Strong Arm) holds his AL LN; XP 384; MM2 p. 12. He carries 2 javelins, a mallet, a ring of
winged helm at his side and kneels before the enormous throne of warmth, and a chain mail pouch containing 140 gp and three red
a regal looking giant. garnets worth 100 gp each.
Northeast Wall: A plate-clad human with a winged helm (Andril) Hobgoblins (3): SZ M; AC 5; MV 9”; HD 1+1; hp 7, 6, 4; #AT 1;
thrusts his sword at a large rearing insectoid worm with fangs, Dmg 2-8; AL LE; XP 31 each; MM p. 52. They wear chain mail and
bulging eyes, and fanned wings near its head. wield guisarmes. Each one carries 15 cp and 5 gp.
Southeast Wall: A spear-wielding elf (Somgris) falls from the top of
a tall, steep staircase that rises up out of the ground. Above the
staircase is the night sky, including stars and a full moon.

Southwest Wall: A plate-clad human with a winged helm (Andril) B18. NORTHERN NARTHEX
ascends a tall, steep staircase that rises up from the top of a three NOTE: Although this room’s natural size is 30 feet in diameter, a
tiered ziggurat and toward a full moon perched almost directly spatial distortion effect sometimes (as described below) increases the
above the top of the staircase. interior diameter to 75 feet. This does not affect the door sizes, ceiling
The painting is a creature-less ward painting and depicts only a height, or other room dimensions.
background: A granite-hued dungeon wall. It is associated with the This chamber’s only significant features are the two doors, four
ward that formerly protected the Eastern Narthex (area B15), but the lighting stones in the ceiling, and several large symbols etched into
painting serves no purpose since the werewolves destroyed the the surface of the floor. Three irregular regions of the floor are
corresponding guardians. It radiates dim abjuration magic. rougher and darker in color than the rest of the granite in the
Lounging here are six werewolves and their "trained" rust monster, chamber. (See the illustration on page 21.)
which immediately attack anyone unfamiliar that enters the room. The As with the Eastern Narthex (area B15), a structural locking
rust monster is restrained near the north wall by the 21 hp werewolf mechanism prevents either door from opening unless the other is
via a specialized leather and bone harness that also attaches to four 50 closed. See the Eastern Narthex for details on how to adjudicate this
pound stone weights; the handler releases the rust monster at the start sort of mechanism.
of combat. The three weakest werewolves are former Sun Temple
guards who are now completely depraved and no longer desire a cure The floor of the chamber is map is based on Andril Strong Arm’s
for their lycanthropy. adventures on the lunar disc. The symbols show some of the locations
and geographical features he explored.
Werewolves (6): SZ M; AC 5; MV 15"; HD 4+3; hp 23, 18, 17, 14,
22, 21; #AT  1; Dmg  2-8  or  by  weapon; SA  surprise on 1-3; SD  hit This chamber is protected by a ward that – when activated by the
only by silver and magic weapons; AL CE; XP 310 each; MM p. 63. dretch ward painting in the Oracle’s Quarters (area B19) –
Each carries two bone javelins. The three toughest werewolves each summons eight dretch into the room whenever one or more other
wear a shoulder bag containing personal effects and a canvas-wrapped creatures are in the room and both doors are closed. (i.e., if the player
platinum armband worth 200-500 gp. characters enter the room and let the door naturally swing closed
behind them, the dretch are summoned.) Also, as long as the dretch
Rust Monster: SZ  M; AC  2; MV  18"; HD  5; hp  19; #AT  2; ward painting is activated, a spatial distortion effect increases the
Dmg  destroy  metal; SD  destroys metal that hits it; AL  N; XP  275; diameter of the room to 75 feet; this is true regardless of whether
MM p. 83. other creatures are in the room or whether the doors are closed. The
spatial distortion causes the room to radiate moderate alteration magic.
Note that the dretch ward painting has already been activated at
the start of the adventure.
B17. GUESTS’ QUARTERS The dretch materialize at positions equally distributed around the
edges of the room. They cannot be surprised, and they immediately
Three simple pine bunk beds and a pine table are crammed at the attack anyone who has entered the room, save those openly wearing a
south end of the room, while a scaly, deep red pelt rests near the north chandryx amulet. One dretch always begins combat by attempting
wall, partially covering a sooty area on the floor and wall. The pelt is
to gate in a Type I demon, while the rest engage in melee or use spell-
arranged as though it is a bedroll. Two lighting stones are set into
like abilities as appropriate, with tactics limited by their mediocre
the ceiling.
intelligence. Because of their magic resistance, the dretch are quite
The pelt is from a salamander of the largest size, and is resistant to willing to include each other within the area of their stinking cloud
both fire and heat. To a collector of oddities or trophies, it is worth 500 ability. Although they do not pursue anyone who flees the room, they
gp. are eager for combat and move to block the exits at an early
opportunity. The dretch back down if someone holds forth a
An azer and his three hobgoblin bodyguards stay here as boarders. chandryx amulet and commands them to cease attacking and move
The azer hopes to overthrow the werewolves and take over the Sun away. One turn after all other creatures leave the room, the dretch
Temple, but he currently lacks the muscle to do so. Through his vanish, returning from whence they came.
dealings with the werewolves, the azer learned that the werewolves
kidnapped the oracle and took her to their king, and he rightly suspects Dretch (8): SZ S; AC 2; MV 9"; HD 4; hp 11, 21, 17, 24, 15, 16, 16,
that their lair is not of this world. 16; #AT  3; Dmg  1-4/1-4/2-5; SA  spell-like powers (darkness 5-foot
radius, scare, stinking cloud, telekinesis 500 gp weight, teleport, gate);
The group is able to hear combat in the adjoining room, but will not SD 30% magic resistance, half damage from cold, electricity, fire, and
expose themselves until the rust monster is neutralized. They attack gas; AL CE; XP 247 each; MM2 p. 38.

15
B19. ORACLE’S QUARTERS B20. SANCTUM

A charcoal gray velvet curtain divides the room into equal sized This luxurious dressing chamber features deep purple draperies along
eastern and western halves. The ceiling is set with three lighting the walls, a mirrored teak vanity and matching cushioned seat, and a
stones, two on the east side and one on the west. nest of silk pillows on the floor surrounding a polished silver basin.
The air smells vaguely sweet, as though incense was used here some
The eastern half is designed for study, with a teak desk and matching time ago. However, the opulence of the chamber is spoiled by a trio of
seat, an oak table with four chairs, and an oak bookcase stocked with filthy mattresses near a careless heap of loot. The ceiling is set with two
rolls of parchment, writing implements, and various almanacs and star lighting stones that illuminate the room in response to the presence
charts. On the north wall is a dretch ward painting, and between of a chandryx amulet at the top of the loot pile.
the doors on the east wall is a stunjelly ward painting.
The vanity’s drawers contain ink, writing quills (crow, ostrich, peacock,
and peryton), parchment, assorted divination aids, a jar of chandryx
Dretch ward painting: This ward painting is currently active, dust, and a shallow ebony box that holds a thick pad soaked with
and it depicts the face and hunchbacked shoulders of a bald moonlight ink. Hanging from the vanity mirror is a hand-sized
grotesque humanoid (a dretch) against a background of an interior hammered brass decoration depicting a sunset.
worked stone wall. If it is deactivated, it depicts only the dretch’s
sparsely haired back, since the pitiful demon’s hunch occludes the Each of the 15 silk pillows in the nest is worth 5 gp. The 3 foot
back of its head. This ward painting corresponds to the dretches diameter polished silver basin is half-filled with water. It is a scrying
and spatial changes in the Northern Narthex (area B18). This pool whose properties are described below. Next to the silver basin
painting radiates strong conjuration/summoning and alteration and obscured by the pillows is a wire basket containing leaves, and a
magic. blazing sun decoration made of hammered brass, all of which are
slightly damp.
Stunjelly ward painting: This ward painting is currently active,
and it depicts an interior worked stone wall. Despite the visual The loot pile is comprised of the werewolves’ recently-acquired
similarity to a ward painting for which the corresponding creature treasure, including the last few months’ worth of offerings to the
has been eliminated, this particular scene actually depicts a oracle:
stunjelly, and it is designed to trick interlopers into believing the
corresponding ward creature has already been eliminated. Careful • Chandryx amulet.
comparison of this ward painting in its activated state reveals that • 392 recently minted gp and 220 sp in a burlap sack.
the stunjelly wall is closer to the foreground than the wall • Silver tea set worth 100 gp.
background of other ward paintings, thus providing a clue about • 8 inch diameter solid glass orb worth 10 gp.
the trick. If the painting is deactivated, the stunjelly wall rotates • Set of nine military strategy books worth 200 gp total.
around and fades, revealing the usual dungeon wall background. • 10 square yards of silk fabric woven with gold threads worth
This ward painting corresponds to the stunjellies at the Warded 275 gp.
Intersection (area B24). This painting radiates faint conjuration/ • Fine dagger with a golden yellow topaz stone set into the pommel
summoning magic. worth 500 gp.

Behind a drapery on the east wall is a handle for the secret door, whose
The western half of the room is a dormitory that features a rumpled presence is obvious once the drapery is moved aside. It is kept doubly
double bed, two similarly untidy twin-size beds, and a pair of large locked via a pair of simple sliding bolts.
dressers, all made of teak. A full large sack slumps awkwardly on the
floor in the middle of the furniture next to two wine crates. Sohrab, the leader of the werewolf gang, lives here along with one of
his mates and their grown daughter Azara, who is skilled in the
The dressers contain only clothing, linens, and personal effects. The magical arts. Although they are quick to attack any weak group of
wine crates hold 7 full bottles (worth 1 gp each) and 11 empty ones. intruders, these werewolves are savvy enough to know when the odds
The large sack contains assorted metal items gathered from elsewhere are against them, and they have plenty of loot and information with
in the complex, including an iron ring of eight keys for the footlockers which to bargain.
in the Guards’ Quarters (area B11) and a hand-sized hammered brass
wall decoration depicting a sunrise, which can be used with the Because there is only one door between this room and the Oracle’s
scrying pool in the Sanctum (area B20). Quarters (area B19), the werewolves that occupy this room are able to
hear obvious sounds of combat therein and investigate after one
round.
Formerly the main residence of the oracle and her two young
assistants, this room is now occupied by four werewolves who
aggressively attack trespassers. However, at any given time, 1-4 of them
are resting in the western half of the room, and are unable to act for
one round as they rouse.

Because there is only one door between this room and the Sanctum
(area B20), the werewolves that occupy this room are able to hear
obvious sounds of combat therein and investigate after one round, plus
any time necessary for them to rouse.

Werewolves (4): SZ M; AC 5; MV 15"; HD 4+3; hp 26, 22, 28, 22;
#AT  1; Dmg  2-8  or  by  weapon; SA  surprise on 1-3; SD  hit only by
silver and magic weapons; AL  CE; XP  310  each; MM  p.  63. Each
wears a platinum armband worth 200-500 gp, and the largest two each
carry a short bow and 20 arrows, while the smaller two carry two bone
javelins.

16
Sohrab, Werewolf Leader: SZ M; AC 5; MV 15"; HD 6+3; hp 31; B21. CHAMBER OF ASCENT
#AT 1; Dmg 2-12 or by weapon; SA surprise on 1-3; SD hit only by
silver and magic weapons; AL  CE; XP  765; MM  p.  63, but with A narrow staircase rises up and out of the chamber through an
increased HD and Dmg. He wears two platinum armbands (worth 500 opening in the ceiling and continues into the sky, forming the spire of
gp each), and attached to these armbands are two steel vials containing the Sun Temple. The staircase narrows and becomes impossibly steep
a potion of ESP, and a potion of gaseous form. He also carries a as it rises. A pile of blankets and pillows forms a makeshift bed just to
short bow and 20 arrows. the east of the staircase.

Azara, Werewolf Thaumaturgist: SZ  M; AC  5; MV  15"; Four 30 foot wide wall reliefs depict the Sun Temple and surrounding
HD 4+3; hp 20; #AT 1; Dmg 2-8; SA casts spells as 5th level magic environs during different times of the year, and each one features a full
user with a 16 Int, surprise on 1-3; SD  hit only by silver and magic moon over the temple’s spire. At least two (see below) of the full moons
weapons, may save as 5th level magic user; AL  CE; XP  385; glow as brightly as a light spell.
MM p. 63. She wears two platinum armbands (worth 500 gp each) and
a shoulder satchel containing her spell components, a wand of fear SPRING (northwest wall): The trees in the surrounding environs
(10 charges, made of ivory and etched with the command word, have new growth. The moon in this relief always glows.
"zarel"), and her spell book, which contains the following spells: hold SUMMER (northeast wall): The trees are full of leaf. The moon in
portal, magic missile, read magic, spider climb, unseen this relief is lower in the sky than in the other three reliefs. The
servant, web, knock, lightning bolt. She memorized the following moon in this relief only glows if the staircase functions correctly
spells: during summer, which can be enabled via the Underchamber (area
First Level: hold portal, magic missile (x2), spider climb A9).
Second Level: web (x2) AUTUMN (southeast wall): Leaves fall from the trees in this relief,
Third Level: lightning bolt and its moon always glows.
Werewolf: SZ M; AC 5; MV 15"; HD 4+3; hp 14; #AT 1; Dmg 2-8; WINTER (southwest wall): The trees are bare, and snow carpets
SA surprise on 1-3; SD hit only by silver and magic weapons; AL CE; the ground and the temple. The moon in this relief is higher in the
XP 310; MM p. 63. She wears a platinum armband worth 300 gp, and sky than in the other three reliefs, and it only glows if the staircase
a silver necklace with a castle-shaped pendant worth 85 gp. functions correctly during winter, which can be enabled via the
Scrying pool: This silver basin radiates strong divination magic. Sundial / Moondial in the Gardens (location c of area A5).
When it is filled with at least a gallon of water, and one of a set of It is trivial to ascend the staircase as far as the roof of the Sun Temple,
associated items is submerged within it, the user can gaze into the but climbing beyond that is treacherous, especially when attempting to
water and scry on one of several specific areas. Even if the viewed area reach the moon. See Part 3 – Climbing the Staircase for details.
is dark, the user sees it as though it is illuminated by a light spell. The
particular location to be viewed and heard is dependent on the exact A 250 foot length of rope is securely tied to five iron spikes that have
item submerged within the pool: been hammered into the granite just outside the ceiling opening. The
rope leads across and down the roof of the Sun Temple to the ground
FANE OF WISDOM (area B4): Submerge the decoration of a below. See the description of area A7 for more details.
blazing sun, which starts out in the wire basket next to the scrying
pool. The viewing point also allows the user to look through the A single werewolf guards the chamber. He is 30% likely to be asleep.
archway into the Sermon Chamber (area B2) and even see a little
bit of the Shrine of the Sun God (area B3). Werewolf: SZ M; AC 5; MV 15"; HD 4+3; hp 15; #AT 1; Dmg 2-8;
SA surprise on 1-3; SD hit only by silver and magic weapons; AL CE;
SUNRISE SHRINE (area A8): Submerge the sunrise decoration XP 310; MM p. 63. He wears a platinum armband worth 200 gp,
face up. (Assume the player characters submerge the decoration
face up unless they explicitly say otherwise.) The sunrise decoration
starts out amongst the loot in the Oracle’s Quarters (area B19). B22. WESTERN NARTHEX

UNDERCHAMBER (area A9): Submerge the sunrise decoration NOTE: Although this room’s domed ceiling is naturally 15 feet high at
face down. the apex, a spatial distortion effect sometimes (as described below)
increases the height to 30 feet. This does not affect any other
LOBBY OF THE SUNSET SHRINE (location b of area A10): properties of the room.
Submerge the sunset decoration, which starts out hanging from the
vanity mirror in the Sanctum. The putrid smell of decay exudes from a battered and gory naked
corpse near the center of this circular chamber. Bloodstains mar the
TOP OF THE STAIRCASE: Submerge one or more leaves from floor and bits of thick fur are scattered about. The ceiling is set with
the surrounding countryside to view from the very top of the Sun four lighting stones.
Temple’s crinkled spire staircase, which affords a tremendous –
though high-altitude – view of the countryside. As with the Eastern Narthex (area B15), a structural locking
mechanism prevents each of the four doors from opening unless the
ATELIER OF EUDOCIA: Submerge a pinch or more of other three are closed. See the Eastern Narthex for details on how to
chandryx dust to establish a two-way communication portal with a adjudicate this sort of mechanism.
similar silver basin on the moon in the workroom of Eudocia, a
middle-aged lunar human woman. Each hour the communication The corpse is that of a werewolf in human form who was killed here
portal is in operation, there is a 30% chance that Eudocia notices it shortly after the werewolves’ arrival.
and investigates. Otherwise the viewer sees only the a starry night
sky framed by a ceiling opening in the workroom. Eudocia’s skin is This chamber is protected by a ward that – when activated by the
pallid, her eyes are entirely blue, and she wears copious platinum lammasu ward painting in the Tomb of Andril Strong Arm (area
jewelry. Eudocia is surprised to see the portal operating, for she B28) – summons two flying, invisible lammasus near the apex of the
knows that the Oracle was to be kidnapped, and it was she who ceiling whenever one or more other creatures are in the room and all
divulged the existence of the Oracle to the werewolves. the doors are closed. (i.e., if the player characters enter the room and
let the door naturally swing closed behind them, the lammasus are
17
summoned.) Also, as long as the lammasu ward painting is B25. ANTECHAMBER
activated, a spatial distortion effect increases the height of the domed
ceiling to 30 feet; this is true regardless of whether other creatures are Six lines of verse are etched into the west wall at the location marked
in the room or whether the doors are closed. The spatial distortion with the secret door symbol:
causes the room to radiate moderate alteration magic. Note that the
lammasu ward painting has already been activated at the start of A party of three where one hides the two,
the adventure. occluding the furthest from two points of view.
Affecting the middle by day or by night,
If one or more creatures have entered the room without openly infrequently choosing to snuff out the light.
displaying a chandryx amulet, one of the lammasus telepathically The rest swell the fullness on high in the air,
issues a warning to everyone: allowing the fearless to travel the stair.

"Infidels! Thou hath trespassed upon hallowed ground! Leave Following that, a permanent illusion of a normal non-etched wall
from whence thou came, or thou shalt be smitten by solar masks two more lines of etched verse:
fury!"
By speaking its name and touching its mark,
If a member of an entering group holds forth a chandryx amulet through to the gallery you may embark.
and requests safe passage for any accompanying creatures, the
lammasus allow the group to pass unscathed. Otherwise the larger Below the verse is a carving of three circles arranged horizontally, and
lammasu speaks a holy word and then the pair tries to drive off or of increasing size from left to right, with an etched line crossing
destroy anyone not openly displaying a chandryx amulet. The through all three:
lammasus pursue intruders who attempt to escape through the
southern door, but not through the other doors. One turn after all
intruders are driven off or killed, the lammasus vanish, returning from
whence they came.
The carving radiates strong alteration magic. Touching it and speaking
Lammasus (2): SZ  L; AC  6; MV  12"/24"; HD  7+7; hp  41, 36;
the word “syzygy” triggers a passwall at the map location marked
#AT 2; Dmg 1-6/1-6; SA clerical spells, holy word (41 hp lammasu
with the secret door symbol, allowing access to the Moon Gallery (area
only); SD  protection from evil; AL  LG; XP  1235 each; MM  p.  59.
B26). The passage stays open for one round.
Both have memorized the following spells:

First Level: command x2, cure light wounds, light

B26. MOON GALLERY
Second Level: hold person x2, silence 15’ radius
Third Level: dispel magic, prayer Two rows of columns help support the ceiling of this gallery. Many
Fourth Level: cure serious wounds peculiar artifacts and trophies are displayed around the edges of the
room, though a few appear to have been broken. Three lighting
stones in the ceiling give off only a gentle glow, similar to candlelight.

The southern section of the east wall features a circle and line carving
B23. COLLAPSING FLOOR TRAP identical in design and function to the one in the Antechamber (area
B25), although no verse is present.
NOTE: This entry applies to two rooms on the Sun Temple map.
From south to north, the artifacts are:
Upon opening the door to this small empty chamber, the floor of the
chamber and the steps of the adjoining stairs swing open, dropping all • Three scorpion statuettes (see Special Materials and Items).
who stand upon them into a 50 foot deep pit. • Broken scorpion statuette, which is no longer magical.
• Hooded cloak made of a two-headed polar bear’s fur, with both
Creatures that land on or otherwise touch the floor of the pit are
pairs of eyes and ears attached, as well as its forepaws. The
teleported without error to the bottom of the Receptacle (area B32),
hood is formed by one of the head sections. It is lined with
and are magically stripped of all of their clothes, armor, weapons, wool, and when drawn closed it provides adequate warmth and
magical items, and other nonliving gear, which are teleported weather protection in extremely cold climates. It is worth 1000
without error to the tub in the Vault (area B30). Any nonliving gear gp.
that is dropped to or otherwise touches the bottom of pit is likewise • Badly burned (and thus worthless) painting with a broken and
teleported to the tub. charred frame. The few areas of undamaged canvas depict a
starry sky.
• Two bastard swords on a rack, and a broken bastard sword on
the ground below, each of which features a serrated edge and a
B24. WARDED INTERSECTION tassel made from fine auburn hair.
• Scroll-sized sheet of platinum foil embossed with a contract
The T-intersection at the south end of the corridor is protected by a entitling the bearer to one share of gains from the Phosos Vein.
ward that – when activated by the stunjelly ward painting in the The sheet is made from 300 gp worth of platinum.
Oracle’s Quarters (area B19) – brings a stunjelly into existence at the • Preserved carcass of a 3 foot long worm, whose oversized head
start of both the east and west branches of the intersection, so as to features shaggy gray hair, horns, fangs, and bulbous eyes.
make it appear to be a dead end. • Two platinum armbands of a design identical to those of the
invading werewolves. They are worth 200 gp and 400 gp.
The stunjellies attack anyone entering the intersection, pursuing as best • Black silk sheet covering an iron disc upon which the numbers
they can. 21, 14, and 7 are inscribed across the diameter from left to
right. It radiates faint divination magic, and glows gently in
Stunjellies (2): SZ  L; AC  8; MV  3"; HD  4; hp  17, 22; #AT  1; correspondence with the phase of the moon as viewed from the
Dmg 2-8 + paralyzation; AL N; XP 197 each; FF p. 84. world. It is worth 200 gp.

18
 • Three slabs of chandryx suitable for fashioning part of a
sarcophagus.

The three unbroken scorpion statuettes are in guard mode. When

anyone other than the oracle enters the room, they transform into
giant scorpions, then advance and attack.

Giant Scorpions (3): SZ M; AC 3; MV 15"; HD 5+5; hp 28 each;

#AT  3; Dmg  1-10/1-10/1-4  +  poison; AL  N; XP  815  each;
MM p. 85.

B27. CELLS

A stoppered black flask rests on a circular table in the center of the

room. Around the perimeter of the room are three prison-like doors
made of metal bars, each leading to a narrow cell. The cells are empty,
save for a pile of clothes lying just inside the southern cell. All three
cells are locked. One lighting stone is set into the ceiling.

The pile of clothes consists of boots, pants, a shirt, and a leather belt.
A pant leg is tied to one sleeve of the shirt, and the belt is tied to the
other sleeve. Under the clothes is a black flask identical to the one on weighs 200 pounds, while the others weigh 500 pounds each. They all
the table. The leather belt is stiff from age and a message is carved on radiate strong conjuration/summoning magic.
its inside face:
If the four statues are rearranged such that the youngest depiction is in
Your help is needed. Thank you for your service. the northwest corner, with progressively older depictions continuing
clockwise, a winged helmet of adaptation is conjured onto the
The stoppered black flask on the table contains a magical draught that
head of Andril’s corpse. Save for its physical form, this helmet is
smells of ozone and radiates moderate alteration magic. When more
equivalent to a necklace of adaptation.
than half of the draught is consumed at one time, the imbiber is
subjected to a disintegrate spell. A save versus spells is not allowed if Carved into the floor underneath the base of each statue is a palm-
the draught is consumed willingly. Other applications of the liquid are sized symbol: A flower (crocus) in the northwest, a flaring sun in the
harmless; it must be drunk to take effect. northeast, a leaf (oak) in the southeast, and a snowflake in the
southwest. These provide a cryptic clue to the necessary arrangement
of the statues; the season associated with each symbol corresponds to
B28. TOMB OF ANDRIL STRONG ARM
one phase of a human’s growth and aging cycle.
NOTE: The western door’s hinges are on the south side. Thus, the
statue in the northwest corner does not preclude the door from
B29. JUNGLE OVERLAP
opening completely.
This room appears to enclose a small part of a larger jungle. The walls
A statue of a boy and three statues of men stand in the corners here.
and floor are covered with lush vegetation, and ten stone columns look
These life-sized statues are carved of white marble on circular bases,
like trees holding up a thick canopy of greenery at the ceiling, with
and they look toward an embellished chandryx sarcophagus in the
rays of sunlight or moonlight (as appropriate) streaming in between the
center of the chamber. Two portraits hang on the south wall. One
large leaves. Warm, humid air hangs here, and wildlife seems to chirp,
lighting stone is set into the ceiling directly above the sarcophagus.
croak, and call from nearby.
The short and long sides of the sarcophagus are etched with full
The sun god blessed this room such that it dimensionally overlaps with
moons and side views of the Sun Temple exterior, respectively. The lid
a jungle far to the south, causing the whole room to radiate strong
weighs 300 pounds and depicts a plate-clad warrior wearing a winged
alteration magic. Although air, light, and sound can pass freely across
helm. Within the sarcophagus are the remains of Andril Strong Arm,
the dimensional bridge, creatures and objects cannot, with one
who still wears his plate mail armor, though not his helmet (but see
exception: Small jungle animals (giant rats or other big rodents, forest
below). Andril has been dead for 9 years. If magic is used to
pigs, small deer, and so on) are permitted to wander into and out of
communicate with his spirit, he knows the information in the
the shared area, for they are prey for the giant constrictor snakes that
background up to the point of his death, as well as details for the
live here (see below). Every six hours there is a 25% chance of a small
layout and most of the contents of the Sun Temple.
prey animal wandering into the room.
The western painting depicts Andril from the chest up, graying and
The two columns nearest the secret door both feature a palm-sized
weary as he appeared a year before his death. It is worth 200 gp.
pressable plate, but these can only be found if the vegetation on the
The eastern painting depicts the maned head and winged shoulders of columns is shoved aside or cut down. If both plates are pressed
a fantastical lion with a human face. This lammasu ward painting simultaneously, the secret door unlatches and may be swung open.
is associated with the lammasus and spatial changes in the Western Because of the vines and creepers on the wall, elves must succeed on
Narthex (area B22). It is currently activated, with the front of the both a concealed door roll and a secret door roll in order to casually
lammasu’s face showing in the painting. It radiates strong conjuration/ notice the secret door.
summoning and alteration magic.
Two giant constrictor snakes lurk in the canopy, waiting to drop on any
Each of the four statues depicts Andril in different stages of life. creatures that enter the room.
Starting with the northwest statue and continuing clockwise, they
Giant constrictor snakes (2): SZ  L; AC  5; MV  9"; HD  6+1;
portray him as a middle aged warrior wearing plate mail and holding a
hp  28, 36; #AT  2; Dmg  1-4/2-8; SA  continuing constriction; AL  N;
winged helmet, a robust and muscular shirtless young man, a boy no
XP 449 each; MM p. 88.
more than 10 years old, and a noble elderly gentleman. The boy statue
19
B30. VAULT would need to somehow shrink, defy gravity and lean back completely
(i.e., horizontally) to walk the steps in the typical fashion.
Sheets of vellum, a few pieces of jewelry and art, writing implements,
and other assorted devices are spread out on an oak table that stands Treat the staircase/spire as a rough wall for purposes of the Climb
against the west wall over a stout steel chest. A deep granite tub large Walls ability.
enough for bathing rests against the north wall.

The contents of the table are: MAGICAL PROPERTIES

• Mundane ink and several writing quills. As the full moon approaches its zenith in the sky on a given night, the
• Magnifying glass. magical nature of the staircase becomes palpable. This begins 1 turn
• Five large folded vellum maps of various parts of the "Eastern prior to the zenith, and lasts for 1 turn afterward. Anyone on or within
Realms" worth 1200 gp total. 10 feet of the staircase during this time feels supernatural emanations
• Scroll of protection from magic. from the staircase and the moon, which are equivalent to the Awe
• Scroll of speak with dead and heal, both cast at 13th level. Power of a deity with 20 Cha. Thus, creatures with 2 hit dice or fewer
• Talisman of zagy. are unable to ascend or descend the stairs on their on during this time,
• Jade bracelet worth 1500 gp. and need to be led by others with more hit dice. Also during this time,
• 1 foot tall, slightly ovoid alabaster sculpture carved with three the staircase radiates overwhelming alteration magic.
simple rings around its girth. It is a key to a teleportation device
located on the moon, and is worth 250 gp for its workmanship While it is so activated, the staircase acts as a bridge between the world
and material, or 1000 gp to those who recognize its true and the moon, although the staircase does not necessarily lead all the
significance. way to the moon during all seasons. Travel to or from the moon during
spring and autumn is always possible, but summer and winter
The chest is locked and protected by a glyph of warding (cold) cast operation is only safe if the magical locks are dealt with at the
at 12th level. It contains a sack of 57 pp (minted on the moon at the Sundial / Moondial (location c of area A5) and the Underchamber
Phosos Vein), as well as 419 gp and 847 sp in loose coinage. (area A9) respectively. Those who ascend when it is unsafe discover
that their journey has come up short; the moon appears tantalizingly
The granite tub is empty, save for any objects that were teleported close, yet still so far away, and at this point they must save versus rod,
here from one of the Collapsing Floor Traps (area B23). staff, or wand or fall due to disorientation. (See the falling notes below.)
From within this chamber, the secret door is plainly obvious and From the perspective of onlookers, those in contact with the steps
features a handle with a latch, identical to the normal doors in the indeed shrink in proportion to the size of the highest step touched, and
complex. tilt backward further as they ascend higher.

Those ascending or descending find that – for them – the steps remain
B31. SECRET WEST ENTRANCE constant in size and orientation, for as they take each step, they are
actually changing size and defying (or adhering to, for descenders) the
This secret door is set 5 feet above the exterior ground level. The door world’s gravity. As they climb, the moon begins to tilt as though it is
is obvious from the inside, where it features a handle and latch. turning into a great disc (not a sphere), which grows dramatically
Outside, the door can be opened via a lever that juts up from the larger and closer with each step, while the air becomes gustier and
ground outside, next to the exterior wall of the Sun Temple. Rocks and cooler to the point of frigid near the end of the journey. The trek
vegetation hide the lever from casual view. seems to be roughly 250 feet long (the staircase is comprised of 250
steps) and takes about 4 rounds for an unencumbered human. With
B32. RECEPTACLE their last step, those ascending set foot on the very edge of the disc-
shaped moon’s tremendously icy and mountainous landscape.
A 15 foot square, 30 foot deep, granite-walled pit is set into the floor
here, with a ledge overlooking it (marked with a dotted line on the Sun FALLING: Because of the disorientation caused by the staircase’s
Temple map). The naked, decaying corpses of three halflings lie at the extreme spatial distortion effects, anyone damaged or otherwise
bottom. distracted while climbing the stairs to or from the moon must save
versus rods, staff, or wand or fall back to the world below, likely landing
The halflings have been dead for just under one year. If speak with on the top or middle tier of the Sun Temple ziggurat. At the Dungeon
dead or similar magic is used, they know there is a roof entrance into Master’s discretion, the cries of a falling comrade might be enough to
the Sun Temple, and they know the invisible creatures in the Western distract others on the staircase. Due to the spatial distortion, all such
Narthex (area B22) can be bypassed with a chandryx amulet. falls are treated as double the actual height. In other words, a fall from
the top of the staircase to the roof of the top tier is treated as a 100
foot fall.

PART 3 – CLIMBING THE STAIRCASE

WEREWOLF AMBUSH
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES Since some of their number fell from the staircase during their initial
arrival, the werewolves are aware of the perils of an ascent during a
The staircase rises a total of 75 feet, 25 feet of which are within the full moon. If they discover interlopers attempting to ascend (even at a
Sun Temple structure. The steps are 5 feet wide for the bottommost 25 time other than a full moon), they may decide to stage an ambush
feet of ascent, gradually tapering to a width of just a few inches at the while any such foes are most vulnerable. The attack should show little
top of the spire. As the width of the steps decrease, so do their depth coordination or planning, but still ought to be deadly due to their
and height. Save for the first few steps, each step tilts upward slightly capability for archery and some long-distance magic use.
more than the proceeding one such that an ascending creature
naturally starts to look almost directly upward as they emerge from the Because of the spatial distortion during a full moon, ranges are
ceiling opening in the Chamber of Ascent (area B21). For the last 30 doubled between creatures on the staircase and those in the Sun
feet, the narrowness and angle of the steps suggests that an ascender Temple or on the ground.
20
 in some easy wealth for a short time. However, unless they are
FURTHER ADVENTURES particularly clever with any oracular responses, the discontented local
rulers are sure to send scouts, investigators, or even assassins. Similarly,
A number of locations within or near the Sun Temple are logical for
followers of the sun god or moon goddess may arrive with orders to
expansion or continued adventures. The Sunset Shrine is of ancient
liberate the structure.
construction, and could contain an undiscovered entrance to a long
forgotten dungeon. One or both of the hill giants in the Winery could The moon itself will be detailed in a forthcoming product (Dungeon
be tracked back to their lair once their supply of wine runs out. The Module F2 – Beyond the Impossible Spire), and many adventures will
dimensional bridge may fracture in the Jungle Overlap room, allowing be possible thereon. Alternatively, the Dungeon Master can invent his
egress to the distant southern jungle and its prehistoric temples. own details for adventures on or related to the moon, possibly
including a second onslaught of invading werewolves or even stranger
Player characters may clear out the Sun Temple to use as a base,
lunar beasts.
possibly positioning themselves as the new oracles, and this may result

NORTHERN NARTHEX (AREA B18)

Doors are
not to scale.

21
 PREGENERATED CHARACTERS
WILCAM – Human Cleric 5 – Male
Str 14 doors 1-2, bars 7% Alignment: Chaotic Good Saving Throws:
Int 6 Movement: 9” Paralyzation/Poison/Death 9
Wis 16 save +2 vs. mental/will Armor Class: 3 Petrifacation/Polymorph 12
Dex 7 Hit Points: 23 Rod/Staff/Wand 13
Con 14 sys. shock 88% Height: 5’ 5” Breath Weapon 15
Cha 13 reaction adj. +5% Weight: 163 lbs. Spells 14

Magical Items: cleric scroll of protection from evil. Weapon Proficiencies: footman’s flail, footman’s mace, sling.
Normal Items: banded mail, large shield, footman’s flail, sling Spells (5/5/1):
w/20 bullets, holy symbol, backpack, large belt pouch, large First Level: cure light wounds x3, detect magic, sanctuary
sack, iron rations (1 week), wineskin, 10 foot pole, 2 vials of
holy water, small silver mirror, 4 gems (100 gp each), and Second Level: augury, hold person x2, silence 15’ radius,
50 gp. spiritual hammer
Languages: common. Third Level: prayer

SERRAH – Human Ranger 6 – Female

Str 18 /47 +1 melee, +2 damage, doors 1-3, bars 20% Alignment: Neutral Good Saving Throws:
Int 15 Movement: 12” Paralyzation/Poison/Death 11
Wis 15 save +1 vs. mental/will Armor Class: 1 Petrifacation/Polymorph 12
Dex 15 +1 AC & dodge saves Hit Points: 47 Rod/Staff/Wand 13
Con 16 sys. shock 95% Height: 5’ 10” Breath Weapon 13
Cha 6 loyalty -15%, reaction adj. -10% Weight: 160 lbs. Spells 14

Magical Items: chain mail +1, large shield +1, broad sword +1, Languages: common, elvish, hill giant, goblin, orcish.
dagger +1. Weapon Proficiencies: broad sword, long bow, footman’s mace,
Normal Items: long bow, quiver w/20 arrows, footman’s mace, dagger.
backpack, large belt pouch, 2 large sacks, iron rations (1 Other: +6 damage vs. various giants and humanoids; 3 in 6
week), waterskin, hooded lantern, 2 flasks of oil, tinder box, chance to surprise enemies; and only 1 in 6 chance to be
100’ of rope, 5 iron spikes, hammer, 4 gems (100 gp each), surprised; tracking.
and 50 gp.

GARNAL YELLOWFEATHER – Half-Elf Fighter 4 / Magic User 4 – Male

Str 12 doors 1-2, bars 4% Alignment: Neutral Saving Throws:
Int 14 Movement: 12” Paralyzation/Poison/Death 13
Wis 12 Armor Class: 3 Petrifacation/Polymorph 13
Dex 7 Hit Points: 20 Rod/Staff/Wand 11
Con 15 sys. shock 91% Height: 5’ 5” Breath Weapon 15
Cha 12 Weight: 117 lbs. Spells 12

Magical Items: chain mail +1, dagger +1, magic user scroll of Other: 30% resistant to sleep and charm spells; infravision 60’;
water breathing. improved secret & concealed door detection.
Normal Items: large shield, long sword, short bow, quiver w/20 Spells (3/2):
arrows, spell book, backpack, large belt pouch, large sack, First Level: feather fall, magic missile x2
iron rations (1 week), waterskin, small silver mirror, vial of
holy water, 4 gems (100 gp each), and 50 gp. Second Level: knock, strength
Languages: common, elven, gnome, halfling, goblin, hobgoblin, Spell Book: 1st– affect normal fires, feather fall, identify,
orcish, gnoll. magic missile, read magic; 2nd–knock, strength.
Weapon Proficiencies: long sword, short bow, spear, dagger,
footman’s mace.
22
BINGO SANDYMAN – Halfling Thief 5 – Male
Str 14 doors 1-2, bars 7% Alignment: Chaotic Neutral Saving Throws:
Int 13 Movement: 12” Paralyzation/Poison/Death 12
Wis 4 save -2 vs. mental/will Armor Class: 5 Petrifacation/Polymorph 11
Dex 16 +1 reaction/missile, +2 AC & dodge saves Hit Points: 24 Rod/Staff/Wand 12
Con 15 sys. shock 91% Height: 3’ 1” Breath Weapon 15
Cha 12 Weight: 68 lbs. Spells 13

Magical Items: leather armor +1, scroll of protection from Thief abilities: back stab x3 damage, pick pockets 55%,
magic, magic user scroll of detect evil. open locks 52%, find/remove traps 45%, move silently 50%,
Normal Items: short sword, sling w/20 bullets, dagger, hide in shadows 46%, hear noise 20%, climb walls 75%,
backpack, small belt pouch, small sack, iron rations (1 week), read languages 20%
waterskin, thieves’ picks and tools, 2 empty vials, 4 gems (100 Other: +4 on saving throws versus wands, staves, rods, spells,
gp each), and 50 gp. and poison; infravision 30’; determine grade (75%) and
Languages: common, dwarven, elven, gnome, goblin, halfling, direction (50%) of passages; increased chance of surprise
orcish, thieves’ cant. (requires all halfling/elf party in non-metal armor).
Weapon Proficiencies: short sword, sling, dagger.

HAZEL DABISHISS – Human Illusionist 6 – Male

Str 10 doors 1-2, bars 2% Alignment: Neutral Good Saving Throws:
Int 17 Movement: 12” Paralyzation/Poison/Death 13
Wis 10 Armor Class: 2 Petrifacation/Polymorph 11
Dex 17 +2 reaction/missile, +3 AC & dodge saves Hit Points: 16 Rod/Staff/Wand 9
Con 13 sys. shock 85% Height: 6’ 6” Breath Weapon 13
Cha 15 loyalty +15%, reaction adj. +15% Weight: 160 lbs. Spells 10

Magical Items: bracers AC 6, ring of protection +1, dagger +1, Spells (4/3/1):

illusionist scroll of detect invisibility, potion of diminution, First Level: hypnotism, phantasmal force x2, wall of fog
potion of healing.
Second Level: hypnotic pattern, improved phantasmal force,
Normal Items: 3 daggers, spell book, backpack, large belt mirror image
pouch, 2 large sacks, iron rations (1 week), waterskin, 6
torches, tinderbox, vial of holy water, flask of oil, 4 gems (100 Third Level: paralyzation
gp each), and 50 gp. Spell Book: 1st– darkness, gaze reflection, hypnotism,
Languages: common, blue dragon, goblin, hobgoblin, kobold, phantasmal force, wall of fog; 2nd–hypnotic pattern,
orcish, ogrish. improved phantasmal force, mirror image; 3rd–illusionary
script, paralyzation, rope trick.
Weapon Proficiencies: dagger.

GARZY (Hazel’s Henchman) – Human Fighter 4 – Male

Str 17 +1 melee, +1 damage, doors 1-3, bars 13% Alignment: Neutral Good Saving Throws:
Int 6 Movement: 12” Paralyzation/Poison/Death 13
Wis 10 Armor Class: 3 Petrifacation/Polymorph 14
Dex 10 Hit Points: 23 Rod/Staff/Wand 15
Con 13 sys. shock 85% Height: 6’ 1” Breath Weapon 16
Cha 8 loyalty -5% Weight: 201 lbs. Spells 16

Magical Items: chain mail +1, long sword +1, scroll of Languages: common.
protection from elementals. Weapon Proficiencies: long sword, short bow, morning star,
Normal Items: large shield, short bow, quiver w/20 arrows, dagger, javelin.
morning star, javelin, 4 daggers, backpack, large belt pouch, 2
large sacks, iron rations (1 week), waterskin, 100’ of rope,
grappling hook, 50 gp.
23
 WELL (AREA A4) AND GARDENS (AREA A5) WINERY (AREA A3)
1 SQUARE = 20 FEET N 1 SQ. = 10 FEET

SUNRISE SHRINE (AREA A8)

1 SQ. = 5 FEET

KEY

SUNSET SHRINE (AREA A10)

1 SQUARE = 10 FEET

N
UNDERCHAMBER (AREA A9)
1 SQ. = 5 FEET

Gray shows the perimeter of the mound.

Black areas are at least 20 feet high.

24
 THE SURROUNDING COUNTRYSIDE

1 SQUARE = 50 FEET

FOREST

FOREST
 SUN TEMPLE (AREA A7)

1 SQUARE = 10 FEET

SUN TEMPLE INTERIOR SIDE VIEW

AS SEEN FROM THE WEST
(Not all rooms are shown.)

Note the steep

staircases
between levels.
 For use with 1st Edition Advanced Dungeons & Dragons®

THE FANE OF POISONED PROPHECIES includes complete descriptions and maps for several adventure sites,
and is easily adaptable to most campaign settings. It is the first in a new series of modules designed
for either independent or interconnected use. If you enjoy THE FANE OF POISONED PROPHECIES, look for
these forthcoming titles:

Dungeon Module F2 – BEYOND THE IMPOSSIBLE SPIRE Dungeon Module F3 – MANY GATES OF THE GANN
Frozen wastelands, cruel tyrants, and freakish denizens Who is the Gann and how did this confounding place
await those who climb the impossible spire. Are you come to be? No matter – you have a more pressing
brave enough to trespass in the domain of gods? question to answer: Can you find a way out?

Chaotic Henchmen Productions

www.chaotichenchmen.com

Copyright © 2009 Guy Fullerton, All Rights Reserved – Second Printing, PDF Version, September 21st 2012

Advanced Dungeons & Dragons and AD&D are trademarks of Wizards of the Coast, and are used without permission.
Chaotic Henchmen Productions and its products are not affiliated with Wizards of the Coast.