Sorzog's Proving Vaults
Only those who bleed for the relics shall walk among the heroes of Encienza.
A subterranean network of obsidian corridors and frost-etched burial chambers situated deep beneath the mountain. The air is stagnant, recycled by ancient magical vents that hum with a low, vibrating dread.
Cold blue magelight flickers intermittently, casting long shadows against walls weeping with black ichor. The smell of copper and stale incense permeates the damp air, while the distant clanking of metal echoes through the silence.
☠ Threat
The Warden of Worth, an ancient aberration composed of many stitched-together corpses, monitors every room through magical sensors. It orchestrates the traps and telepathically directs the monsters to punish hesitation or cowardice.
History
Built centuries ago as a testing ground for Encienza's elite candidates, these vaults fell into ruin before Sorzog reclaimed them. He has since stocked the halls with twisted aberrations and restless dead to ensure only the most resilient survive his 'promotion.'
Encounter Table
CRA mass of severed hands skittering across the floor like insects.
The ghost of a candidate who died of hunger, seeking life force.
A Beholder Zombie specifically raised to guard Sorzog's private property.
Rumours & Whispers
Sorzog didn't build the crypt; he just cleaned it and added 'fun' things.
The relics in the final room are cursed to only be held by those who didn't kill their allies.
The Warden of Worth was once the greatest hero of the kingdom until he failed the test.
There's a secret library deep in the crypt that tells the true origin of Encienza's crown.
Avoid the reflection room; the mirror versions of yourself are looking for an exit.
Quest Hooks
Quest giver: Sorzog the Merchant
Sorzog requires a live recording of the Warden's defeat to sell to the nobles in Brulam.
1,000 gp and the title of 'Honorary Fleshbag'.
Quest giver: The Shadow Marshal
A mysterious hooded figure in Brulam wants you to swap one of the relics for a forgery.
A favor from the Thieves Guild.
Corridor Notes
The walls are inscribed with the names of everyone who has entered and died in the vaults.
Magic torches that ignite only when someone walks past them, then extinguish immediately.
A thin layer of ice covers the floor, making it difficult terrain for those without boots of speed.
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