Malakor's Maw
Shadows breathe in the belly of the jagged earth.
A natural cavern system reinforced with stolen masonry and iron bars. It serves as a fortified base for a ruthless gang of bugbears and their goblin lackeys.
The air is humid and carries the heavy scent of wet fur and stale beer. Flickering torches in iron brackets cast long, dancing shadows across the damp stone walls. Occasional guttural shouts echo from the common rooms.
☠ Threat
Malakor the Ruthless is a bugbear chieftain of unusual intelligence and cruelty. He governs his band through fear and a network of spies, ensuring no one challenges his hoard. His presence is felt through the tactical placement of guards and the constant sound of his worgs howling in the deep.
History
Originally a sacred site for an ancient earth cult, the caves were abandoned after a seismic shift sealed the primary chambers. Decades later, the bugbear captain Malakor discovered the entrance and excavated the inner rooms. He has since turned the sanctum into a staging ground for raids on the surface trade routes.
Encounter Table
CRGiant arachnids that have crawled in through the ceiling vents to hunt.
A lone bugbear checking the torches and kicking any sleeping goblins.
Rumours & Whispers
Malakor has a secret pact with a dark entity that grants him unnatural strength.
A wealthy merchant was kidnapped on the road and is being held in the lower pits.
The library holds a map leading to a much larger, ancient city beneath the mountain.
Quest Hooks
Quest giver: Guildmaster Elara
A local trade guild offers a reward for the safe return of Master Thorne, who was taken by bugbears.
500 gp and a favor from the guild.
Quest giver: Captain Harlen
The local militia is tired of the raids and wants the leader of the pack eliminated.
A writ of passage and 400 gp.
Corridor Notes
Crude charcoal drawings of bugbears slaying knights decorate the walls.
A steady drip of cold water from the ceiling has created a small, slippery pool.
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