Battlemap
The Scorched Vein
The earth bleeds fire and the shadows taste of soot.
A network of volcanic caverns where the rock flows like water and heat bends the air. Ancient stone walls are blistered by the presence of a corrupted magma wyrmling.
The air is heavy with sulfur and the low rumble of seismic activity. Lighting is provided by veins of glowing obsidian and pools of orange-red magma. The temperature is uncomfortably high, causing sweat to evaporate instantly.
☠ Threat
Ashmaw, a Twisted Magma Wyrmling, has established its nest at the heart of the caverns. Its presence causes the very earth to buckle and erupt, threatening to collapse the cave system and burn anyone foolish enough to enter. The beast's corruption leaks into the magma itself, turning the lava into a sentient, hateful slurry.
History
Once a minor iron mine for a local clan of deep gnomes, it was abandoned when they breached a pocket of elemental magma. Ashmaw, a wyrmling corrupted by abyssal whispers, claimed the heat as its own, driving out the miners and attracting fire-linked vermin. The mine has since become a nexus of unstable heat and dark, draconic power.
Encounter Table
CRNasty little fliers that attempt to push players into lava.
Scavengers that feed on the glowing crystals in the walls.
Rumours & Whispers
The deep gnomes left something behind that's more valuable than iron.
A dragon was seen flying into the hills, but it looked like it was made of stone.
The ground near the Old Mine is getting hotter every day.
They say cold iron is the only thing that can pierce the hide of the beast within.
Quest Hooks
Quest giver: Fidgit Copperbottom
A gnome descendant wants the signet ring of his grandfather recovered from the cells.
100 gp and a Potion of Fire Resistance
Quest giver: Mayor Thistle
Local farmers are worried about the growing heat killing their crops.
A local hero's welcome and 200 gp
Corridor Notes
Walls that drip thick, black tar that smells like burning rubber.
A sudden drop in temperature followed by a blast of searing wind.
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