The Cinder-Tongue Lair
Smoke rises from the earth where the scaled ones offer their souls.
This cramped series of volcanic tunnels serves as a fortified base for dragon-worshipping cultists. The air is thick with the scent of sulfur and the rhythmic chanting of fanatical kobolds.
The air is hot and carries a heavy scent of brimstone and burnt oil. Shadows flicker wildly against the soot-blackened walls due to the uneven light of guttering torches. Every few minutes, a distant, guttural chanting echoes through the tunnels, making the walls vibrate slightly.
☠ Threat
High Shaman Ignis rules the lair with absolute authority and a volatile temper. He is obsessed with collecting dragon scales to fuel a ritual that he believes will grant him the power of a true dragon. His madness has turned the lair into a death trap for any outsiders who stumble upon their sacred work.
History
A young red dragon once claimed this cave system before it was slain by adventurers decades ago. A tribe of fanatical kobolds moved into the ruins, viewing the scorched rock as sacred ground. They have spent years carving shrines into the stone to honor their lost master and searching for lingering embers of its power.
Encounter Table
CRA lone kobold carrying a lantern and a whistle to signal the rest of the lair.
A serpentine elemental of flickering flame that has slithered up from the volcanic depths.
Rumours & Whispers
Smoke from the cliffside hasn't stopped for three weeks, suggesting something is being burned in large quantities.
The kobolds in the area have been seen carrying golden dragon statues toward the old volcano.
Travelers claim the ground near the Cinder-Tongue Lair is getting hotter with every passing day.
A local trapper says he heard the roar of a dragon coming from the cave, though no one believes him.
Quest Hooks
Quest giver: Bryn the Merchant
A local merchant's heirloom dragon statue was stolen by kobold raiders and taken to their lair.
100 gp and a permanent discount at his shop.
Quest giver: Elder Maros
The village elders fear the kobold rituals will cause the volcano to erupt and want the Shaman removed.
A set of masterwork tools or a silvered weapon.
Corridor Notes
The walls are etched with a tally system that appears to count the number of sacrifices made to the altar.
A bucket of half-melted grease sits in the corner, used to lubricate the heavy stone doors.
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