Ironshackle Keep
The heavy scent of iron and stagnant water clings to these cold stone walls.
A derelict border outpost once used to monitor trade routes, now reclaimed by bandit deserters and restless spirits. The architecture is utilitarian, featuring thick granite blocks and rusted iron reinforcements that groan in the wind.
The air is damp and chilly, smelling of wet stone and ancient rust. Flickering torches placed by bandits provide dim light, while the sound of dripping water and distant metallic clanking echoes through the halls.
☠ Threat
Captain Vane, a disgraced knight turned bandit leader, has occupied the lower levels. He is slowly being corrupted by a malevolent entity residing in the keep foundations, turning his once-disciplined band into bloodthirsty cultists who sacrifice interlopers to a forgotten god of iron.
History
Built eighty years ago by Lord Alaric to guard the pass against mountain raiders, the keep fell during a winter siege when the garrison turned on each other due to a cursed shipment of grain. It has remained a dark stain on the landscape ever since, attracting outlaws who thrive in the shadows of dead empires.
Encounter Table
CRA massive, hairy spider that drops from the ceiling beams.
Alert bandits carrying torches and rusted shortswords.
Rumours & Whispers
The ghosts of the former garrison still walk the ramparts on moonless nights.
Captain Vane found a chest of gold that was cursed by the god of iron.
There is a secret passage in the library that leads directly to the treasure vault.
The water in the keep has started to taste like blood since the bandits arrived.
Quest Hooks
Quest giver: Old Man Kaelen
A local merchant offers a reward for the recovery of a family signet ring stolen by bandits.
150 gold pieces
Quest giver: The Village Elder
Villagers report hearing unholy chanting coming from the keep and fear a dark ritual is underway.
A set of silvered weapons
Corridor Notes
Rusted suits of armor stand in alcoves, their visors permanently fixed on the center of the hallway.
The floor is slick with a strange, oily substance that smells like old machine grease.
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