Black-Iron Pit
The pickaxes have stopped, but the scratching behind the walls hasn't.
A deep iron mine once operated by the Iron-Fist clan, now overrun by shadows and subterranean predators. The lower levels delve into a vein of strange, obsidian-like ore that hums with a faint, malevolent energy.
The air is cold and damp, smelling of sulfur and wet stone. Rhythmic dripping of water echoes like footsteps, and the light of torches struggles against an oppressive, magical gloom.
☠ Threat
The Foreman's Ghost, a spectral figure named Horgus, haunts the lower depths. He is obsessed with finishing the 'Great Quota' and commands the shadows of deceased miners to drive away or enslave any intruders. His influence causes the very stone to shift and trap the unwary in the dark.
History
Established sixty years ago to provide high-quality ore for the kingdom's frontier garrisons, the mine was the pride of the region. Work halted abruptly when miners broke into a pocket of primordial gas and ancient ruins, leading to a frantic and bloody evacuation. Since then, the tunnels have become a refuge for outcasts and creatures drawn to the lingering dark magic of the deep.
Encounter Table
CRA strange insectoid creature with feathered antennae that hunger for metal.
Grim, grey-skinned dwarves looking for new veins of ore to claim.
The reanimated remains of miners who failed to escape the initial collapse.
Rumours & Whispers
The ghost of the head foreman still keeps the books in the lowest level.
A vein of 'Dark Iron' was found just before the mine was closed, and it drives men mad.
The lift isn't broken; it's being held by something massive at the bottom of the shaft.
The water in the preparation chamber has the power to knit flesh back together.
A secret tunnel leads from the chapel directly to the Foreman's office.
Quest Hooks
Quest giver: Beldon Iron-Fist
A merchant family believes their ancestor was cheated out of mining rights and needs the original ledger from the Foreman's office.
500 gp and a share of future mining profits.
Quest giver: Captain Kroll
A local guard went into the mine to investigate strange noises and hasn't returned.
A set of masterwork weapons or armor.
Quest giver: Xylos the Grey
An ambitious wizard needs three shards of obsidian ore from the deepest part of the mine for a ritual.
Two spell scrolls of the party's choice (up to level 3).
Corridor Notes
A discarded mining cart filled with worthless slag and a single, rusted shovel.
A series of notches carved into the wall tracking days, ending abruptly at forty-two.
The ceiling is dangerously low here, requiring tall characters to squeeze through.
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