Black-Blade Bastion
Cold steel and bitter wine await in the dark.
A fortified cave network turned mercenary hideout. The air is heavy with the smell of grease and the sound of whetstones against blades.
The air smells of woodsmoke and cheap ale. Echoes of rough laughter and sharpening blades carry through the damp tunnels. Lighting is provided by sporadic torches in iron brackets.
☠ Threat
Captain Voran, a scarred veteran with a hatred for the nobility, leads the Iron Blades with an iron fist. He is currently orchestrating a series of raids that threaten the regional capital. His influence keeps the bandits organized and his tactical brilliance makes them a formidable force for any guard.
History
The Iron Blades were a failed sellsword company that fled into these caves ten years ago. They turned the natural limestone tunnels into a fortified base for their raiding operations. Over time, the desperate survivors grew into a disciplined criminal organization that plagues the local trade routes.
Encounter Table
CRTwo bored bandits doing a routine circuit of the halls.
A frightened boy carrying a tray of dirty mugs.
Rumours & Whispers
The Iron Blades have a secret vault filled with merchant gold.
Captain Voran was once a knight who was betrayed by his king.
The hideout is rigged with traps that only the Captain knows how to bypass.
A strange shadow-like creature was seen entering the caves last week.
Quest Hooks
Quest giver: Aldus the Weaver
A local merchant offers a reward for the recovery of his silks.
100 gold and a set of fine clothes.
Quest giver: Captain Harken
The town guard wants Captain Voran brought to justice, dead or alive.
A writ of favor and 500 gold.
Corridor Notes
Iron torch brackets that hum slightly when the wind blows.
Deep claw marks on the limestone walls at waist height.
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