Hill's Edge - Hill's Edge

Home
Downloads

Demon:
Introduction

Dreamcatcher:
Introduction
Skyfall
Ocean Dreams
Pit of Stars
Evermeet

Shadowlords:
Introduction
The Message
Hill's Edge
Skull Gorge
The Bone Miners
Enter the Shadow


The weather is overcast daytime. If a character dies, they will be resurrected at the Cry of Joy minus some experience and gold.
If Anera dies, she will reappear outside of the temple.

Journal entry (at beginning):
You have uncovered a plot to pit the Red Shields against the Zhentarim, and carry the dead to Hill's Edge. Why it was done is unknown, but you hold a claim ticket for a room at Freetrader's Public Warehouse. That should be the first step in this investigation.
  1. The Docks
    Barrels, crates, and boxes litter the area beside the docks. Nearby, a large warehouse tells of the quantity of trade flowing through this small town.



    Thistle waits here for the party to finish their business.
    Thistle: Hail, friend. I continue to wait until we are ready for the next leg of our journey.
    1. Very good. Wait here.
    2. What are your thoughts on what we should be doing now?
    (TICKETGIVEN=0) Well, I'd start by taking that claim ticket to the warehouse to the north. You might find something worthwhile inside. sl2_thistle_con1
    (FOUNDPRIEST=1) It appears that the Cyricists are tangled up in this. Perhaps going to their temple, the Fist of the Future, and investigating a bit. sl2_thistle_con2
    (else) I'm not sure. Check in with the townspeople. Perhaps you can find out what's going on.
    3. (FOUNDMAP=1) We must go to Skull Gorge. This map points the way. sl2_thistle_con2
    Aye, we can go to Skull Gorge if you wish. Not a journey I would have wished, but I owe a deep dept to Josura. I recommend you get all the supplies you need before we leave, then give me the word that you'd like to begin your journey.
    1. I am ready to go. (module ends)
    2. Good advice. I will return later when I am ready.

  2. Freetrader's Public Warehouse
    Marise, the clerk, greets the party when they enter:
    "Hello, sir. Should you wish to store or reclaim and item, you will need to present a claim ticket."
    Giving the claim ticket will produce a key and instructions:
    "Thank you. Here is the key to your storage area - it's the second door to the right." (TICKETGIVEN=1) sl2_marise_act1
    sl2_marise_trig
    There are several storage rooms in this building:
    • Locked and empty.
    • Wizard locked. Inside is a dust mephit and a trapped chest with 300gp and a wand of burning hands.
    • Locked. Full of cotton barrels.
    • Locked. A crate of wine bottles is in the corner.
    • Locked (key opens). Inside is a priest of Cyric (L3 - several zombies will be present depending on the party level).
      Priest of Cyric: Here for another delivery, Shrak? Eh, who are you? (FOUNDPRIEST=1) sl2_marise_trig
      1. Shrak sent me.
      (Persuasion DC15 succeeds) What? No one told me of this. sl2_priest_con1
      1. Last minute change. So, where are we taking the bodies?
      The Cyric temple as always, you baffoon. Wait! You should know that! (attacks, +100xp) sl2_priest_act1
      (Persuasion DC15 fails) What? You are not Shrak's agent! (attacks) sl2_priest_act2
      2. I am your death. Prepare yourself! (attacks) sl2_priest_act2
      The priest has his holy symbol, 50gp, and a scroll of Cure Serious Wounds.


  3. The Joyous Juggler
    This inn is warmly decorated in orange and red. The holy symbol of Lliira is carved in the wood above the main entrance.
    Several patrons discuss some of the towns woes:
    Set HEARDROBE = 1
    Yeslin: "...yes, but without the robe, the celebration cannot continue."
    Umin: "Perhaps, but does true joy come from physical objects alone?"
    Yeslin: "I'd like to think they are unnecessary, but the reality is that our flawed selves require some sort of focus to touch the mind of gods."
    Umin: "Hmm. Have to think about that one a bit more. Time for another round?" sl2_yeslin_trig
    Nanna: "I say it's time to throw the Mayor out - he's bleeding the town dry!"
    Isrel: "Have you been to his parties, though? They're absolutely grand."
    Nanna: "Who cares about the parties? With our town militia a joke, who will keep back the goblin hordes?"
    Isrel: "Oh, Nanna, must you always think about these troublesome things. Celebrate, I say! Lliraa demands it!" sl2_nanna_trig
    Isrel: Excuse me, but I'm speaking with my friend here.
    Nanna: Yes, what is it?
    1. I heard you speak of the mayor. Could you tell me more of him?
    The mayor has done little to this town besides cut the militia to nothing and spend money on lavish parties. Hill's Edge would be a better place without that bumbling fool.
    1. How do you propose to do that?
    First, we need to find a replacement to run against the mayor. Perhaps Baern or Donnel? Baern leads the militia, while Donnel is well respected farmer. You can find both to the west of town.
    1. Many thanks. Perhaps I shall speak with them.
    2. I see. Well, good luck with your revolution.
    2. Sorry. Perhaps some other time.

    Yeslin: Yes, my friend. How may I help you?
    1. I overheard earlier that you mentioned a stolen robe?
    The robe of Lliira has gone missing from the Temple of Joy. Without it, the Celebration of the High Moon will not be possible. Everyone suspects the Fist of the Future, but the Cyricists have been quiet.
    1. Where can I find this Cyric temple?
    The Fist of the Future is an embarrassment to this community. You can find it on the northeast edge of town.
    Thank you. Goodbye for now.
    2. Tell me more of this celebration.
    The Celebration of the High Moon takes place, as you might expect, at the high moon. Our faith is reaffirmed and blessings are sometimes given to followers.
    1. Thank you for your time.
    3. I must go now.
    2. Sorry to bother you.

    The proprietor of the Inn is a jovial fellow named Frensil. He belonged to the order of Llirra, but felt he could better serve his goddess through providing nourishment to the physical side of her devotees. The food and lodging is inexpensive and good. A few items are on sale (healing potions, etc.).
    Frensil: Hail and well met. Can I perhaps tempt you with some fresh baked bread?
    1. Sounds tasty. What do you have?
    2. Thanks, but none for me right now.

  4. The Three Brother's Outfitters
    The walls of this shop are stocked with caravan equipment, general goods, and farm supplies. A little bit of everything can be found here.
    This store sells miscellaneous items, such as torches, lamps, rope, lockpick sets, etc.
    The owner of the store is Reese Tindelwood, who will greet the party:
    Reese: Welcome to the Three Brother's Outfitters! Feel free to browse our selection.

  5. Caravans
    Dusty wagons and worn gear occupy this area.
    A argument between wagoneers can be heard here:
    Willip: "Damn the Mayor! We were attacked by orc raiders just outside of town! If we had the militia like it was before, that never would have happened."
    Imar: "I hear the Fist of the Future is hiring out guards now. Could take one of those on."
    Willip: "Expensive, though. The taxes we paid before Menos was in office were less than the cost to hire a guard for every haul."
    Imar: "Perhaps Menos follows the philosophy of a minimalist government. You know, let the market forces set the prices of goods and services."
    Willip: "It's a scale of economies issue. If a single entity, in this case the government, pays for the defense of the town and trade, the total cost is less than if each caravan hired its own guard."
    Imar: "Yes, but the hidden administrative costs? Menos claims to have cut the fat out of government."
    Willip: "Not sure about that one. Have you been to his parties? The money has to come from somewhere."
    sl2_willip_trig

  6. The Steel Gryphon
    Swords, armor, bows, and arrows are prominently displayed around this store.
    Delvin, the owner of the store, sells assorted gear.
    "Hail! Care to purchase some armor or perhaps a bow? We also have some rare items brought in from as far as Sembia."
    Here you will find an assortment of weapons, armor, and bows. You can purchase a Mithral Shirt (1,100 gp), +1 Sunbow Longbow (2,375 gp):
    In ages gone, the priests of Amaunator placed a great blessing on the bows of their highest temple guards. When the god died and their temples fell, many of these bows found themselves in less pious hands.

  7. Arcane Equipment and Services
    The Red Wizards of Thay's emblem is promenantly displayed on the building
    Nazir: Greetings, travellers. Feel free to peruse my wares.
    1. Let me see what you have for sale.
    2. Could you tell me what you know of Hill's Edge?
    We mix little with the other townsfolks. Primarily, trade in rare items that the caravans may bring through.
    3. Do you do anything besides trade here?
    Trade is a priority for me, as is training my son Melnith. I've also been known to collect old tomes for my personal collection.
    1. Well, if I run across any old books, I'll let you know.
    4. Nothing now. Perhaps later.
    5. (The Skull of Orn in inventory)I found this book titled "The Skull of Orn". Would you be interested in it? sl2_nazir_con1
    Ah, it will complete my Skull trilogy! Let me know if you find any more. (lose item, +500gp) sl2_nazir_act1
    6. (Counter of Sparrows in inventory)I found this book titled "Counter of Sparrows". I might be persuaded to part with it. sl2_nazir_con2
    An excellent find. This will suitably compensate you. (lose item, +500gp) sl2_nazir_act2
    Freese sells many mage scrolls, some potions, and a few magic items (e.g. Ring of Protection +1 (2,000 gp), Wand of Summon Monster II (10 charges - 1,000 gp), and a +1 Cloak of Resistance (1,000gp) ).

    In a corner of the store is young Melnith, a level 2 wizard.
    Melnith: So, you must be an adventurer, huh?
    1. Yes, I suppose some may call me that.
    Well, if you're looking for a wizard, I'll be one to join you, for a small fee.
    1. Hmm. Isn't that your father over there? Won't he miss you?
    Naw. He's to busy dusting off the stock.
    (>50gp) 1. Okay, how about 50gp?
    Seems like a fair price. Let's go!
    (>2gp) 2. Okay, how about 2gp?
    Sorry - I'm worth more than that.
    3. On second thought, never mind.
    2. Sorry. No need at the moment. Perhaps later.
    2. Actually, I sell Corinthian leather jackets. Interested?
    What? I'm not a fool you know. Begone.


  8. Kenner the Merchant
    This small house shows signs of having once been filled with fine furniture. The owner seems to have fallen on hard times and is now quite run-down.

    In the bedroom is a locked chest with the Robe of Lliira (RobeOfLliira), 200gp, and a letter. The bedroom also contains Kenner (Rogue, L3), hiding in the shadow. If the party's level is high enough, several cutpurses (Rouge, L1) will be present. He carries a short sword, leather armor, and a key to the chest.
    Kenner: Cross the likes of Cyric will you? You'll not have the robe!
    The robe's description is:
    This orange and red robe is made of fine material and has the holy symbol of Lliira embroidered at the neck.
    The letter states:
    Kenner,
    You have done a great service by retrieving the Robe. Should you continue to prove your worth, you will be indoctrinated into the Fist of the Future's inner circle.
    -Quincel


  9. Baob the Merchant
    The door is locked. Inside is a bookshelf with a scroll of Sleep. A locked, trapped chest holds two gems and 50 gp.

  10. Lady Leroni
    Beautiful tapestries and fine furniture surround you. The touch of a woman is evident in the color choices and style of decoration.
    Leroini: (STATUETAKEN=0)My, my. Strangers, barging in through my front door. Care to explain yourselves, or do you wish to do me a favor? sl2_leroini_con1
    (STATUETAKEN=1) I believe I have what I want from you. For now.
    1. What favor, exactly?
    Recently, I attended a soiree at the Mayor's. On display was a small statue of a swallow that was quite elegant. If you are somehow able to procure it, I will pay handsomely.
    1. I shall not be a thief for the likes of you!
    Touchy, touchy. Well, your loss then.
    2. I shall see if I can obtain it for you.
    Many thanks . . . friend. I'll be waiting.
    2. (statue in inventory) Here is the statue. You mentioned a reward? (STATUETAKEN=1) sl2_leroini_con2
    Ah yes. Here's a bit of coin that should take care of your . . . needs. (Set STATUETAKEN=1, +500gp, move towards chaotic) sl2_leroini_con2
    3. My pardon, lady. I shall depart now.

  11. Bridge

  12. Inocus Waystrom
    The door is locked.
    Inocus: Ye not be invited in! Ye be feelin' me fist, ye will!
    Inocus (Barbarian, L2) carries the sword Fleshtaster, wears leather armor, and carries 50gp. He will have 0-4 thugs will him, depending on the party's level.
    Fleshtaster (+1 for Barbarians, +1 HP on a successful hit, Cannot be used by Good characters, cursed)
    This vile weapon has small hooks along the blade, snagging flesh and sinew as it cuts. While only barbarians get the most benefit from this blade, others can take advantage of its secondary power to transfer part of the life force to the weilder.

    In a chest is a Mighty Composite Longbow (+4 str).

  13. Fist of the Future
    This gray stone building displays the holy symbol of Cyric prominently over the front entrance.
    click for details

    Outside the temple, Anera waits for you: sl2_anera_trig

    Anera: (ANERAGREET=0) <FirstName>, may I speak with you quietly? I don't wish the guards to overhear. sl2_anera_act1 sl2_anera_con1
    (ANERAGREET=1) Yes, <FirstName>? What is it?
    1. (ANERAJOINED=0)Anera, our paths cross again. Why do you find yourself here? sl2_anera_con2
    I have tracked the disturbance to this temple. Something inside is corrupt, altering the natural cycle of life and death. <FirstName>, I am surprised to see you here as well. What brings you to this place?
    1. At the Forest of Wyrms, a rogue by the name of Shrak was intercepting orders between the armies. He commanded them to battle to the death, then carted the bodies here.
    Ah. It seems your proof is much more solid than my visions and feelings. I'm glad we have reached the same conclusion.
    1. Perhaps we can join together to investigate the temple? Your assistance would be welcome.
    (player is not evil) I would like that <FirstName>. We can root out the evil within. (Set ANERAJOINED=1, joins) sl2_anera_con3 sl2_anera_act2
    (player is evil, DC15 persuasion succeeds) Though I do not trust you, perhaps we have common cause here. (Set ANERAJOINED=1, joins) sl2_anera_con4
    (player is evil, DC15 persuasion fails) I sense a wrongness within you and I do not think our cause is the same. I cannot fight with someone I do not trust.

    2. Well, carry on.
    2. No reason. Just visiting.
    Hmm. I do not believe you are telling the truth, <FirstName>. Perhaps it is best that you stay out of my way.
    2. (ANERATASK=0) When we last met, you said you had another task. I presume you have completed it? sl2_anera_con5
    Yes, though not to satisfaction. Penance rarely is. (Set ANERATASK=1) sl2_anera_act3
    1. Penance? Did you commit some grevious wrong?
    2. Hah! Penance? It sounds like you've been a naughty girl.

    I had . . . rebelled, against my true calling. Long ago, perhaps, but my actions must be put right.
    When I was young, I wronged a young man who wished my favors. I sent him on increasingly difficult challenges for nothing more than mischevious whim. One day, picking a rare flower from a cliffside, he fell to his death. Each year on the anniversary of his death, I give what money and support I can to his family.

    1. The fool got what he deserved.
    Some may think that, but not I. He was a fool in love, but his intentions were pure. It was I who was flawed.
    2. When we are young, we do not always understand risk and danger fully. It is sad and unfortunate, but do not blame yourself.
    Perhaps you are right <FirstName>. I shall not forget your kind words. (set ANERAROMANCE++, if ANERACROMANCE="", ANERAROMANCE=playername)
    3. (ANERAHELLO=0) It is a pleasure to see you again Anera. sl2_anera_con6
    I . . . you too <FirstName>. I am used to working alone, though I find your company welcome. (Set ANERAHELLO=1) sl2_anera_act4
    1. Well, glad you're around. Another blade is always handy.
    Yes, I suppose it is.
    2. I find your company more than welcome. I had hoped to speak again after I saw you last.
    I admit to feeling the same. Let us talk more of this when our task is done. (set ANERAROMANCE++, if ANERACROMANCE="", ANERAROMANCE=playername) sl2_anera_act4
    4. (ANERABACKGROUND=0) I am curious about your background. By your shining eyes and fair skin, you seem to have the look of the heavens about you. sl2_anera_con7
    Yes, one of my parents was a celestial. It is difficult to hide, and I have stopped trying. sl2_anera_act5
    1. Well, it disturbs me and I do not like it. Try a wig or heavy makeup.
    I have long grown used to such cruel words from others, but I expected more from you.
    2. I would not wish you to hide it. I find it quite enchanting.
    Please, do not embarrass me so. We have a task at hand and should not discuss such things. Perhaps later. (set ANERAROMANCE++, if ANERACROMANCE="", ANERAROMANCE=playername) sl2_anera_act4
    5. (ANERADIED=1 AND ANERADIEDSPEECH=0) Anera! You're alive!
    Yes. As I serve Kelemvor, I serve the natural progression from life to afterlife. It is not my time, however, and my god provides. (ANERADIEDSPEECH=0)
    6. Perhaps we can talk more later.

    If ANERAROMANCE>2 and ANERACROMANCE=player who is present and FOUNDMAP=1 and Anera present: sl2_anera_trig2
    Anera: <FirstName>, if you could wait a moment before we leave for Skull Gorge, I would speak with you for a moment.
    1. Yes, Anera, what is it?
    You have been most kind to me and helped me in my quest. I would like to give you something. A token of my friendship.
    1. I would be delighted, Anera. I will strive to earn what you have given. sl2_anera_act5
    It belonged to my mother, and I hope you take good care of it. Keep it with you always, and I shall treat our friendship as special.
    (player is female) 2. Um, Anera, I'm not that kind of girl. Can't you go to one of those clubs or something? sl2_anera_con8
    (player is male) 2. Hah! I have no need of your trinkets, wench. sl2_anera_con9

    Perhaps I misjudged you. I shall not speak of it more.
    2. I have no time for this, woman.

    Anera's Token (tag: AneraToken1, worn in wrist slot, cannot be used by evil characters, provides benefits of Bless and acts as a dim lightsource): Wrought from metals found far from the material plane, the figures of three stars have been wrought into the form of a thin bracer. Though never touched by a mage's spells, the material glows with a magical radiance. The first star is especially bright while the others glow with a cool blue light.

  14. Mayor's House
    This elaborate manor has been recently refurbished. A polished brass sign proclaims this the home of Mayor Menos.
    click for details

  15. Barracks
    This new structure appears to be a soldier's barracks, though it shows little sign of recent use.
    Inside is Old Ylemin:
    Ylemin: Hail, strangers. No one else around here but me these days. I'm the only one Baern can support since the Mayor cut his budget.
    1. Who is this Baern you speak of?
    Oh, he's a good man, he is. Convinced the old mayor to build the barracks and support a militia. When Menos was elected, he cut the funding and Baern and I are all that's left.
    1. A captain and an old man don't seem to be much of a militia.
    We'd be the first to agree. The goblin's have been attacking caravans while we can barely guard the town proper. 'Tis a shame.
    2. Sounds like you got a raw deal. I shall seek out this Baern.
    2. What do you know of the mayor?
    The new mayor's a slippery one. Backed by some of the merchants and the Fist of the Future, he cut the militia. To cut costs, he said. Now the caravans have to hire guards to make it past the orc raiders.
    3. I must be on my way.

  16. Baern Strayarrows's Home
    This modest home is build from sturdy stones.
    Baern: Hello. How may I help you?
    1. My name is <FirstName> and I'm looking into some of the dealings of the Cyric temple. What do you know of them?
    2. What do you do here?
    I'm the captain of the militia, or what's left of it. The mayor has cut the purse strings and I was forced to let my troops go.
    3. I have been hearing more about the mayor. What are your feelings about him?
    To be honest, I cannot support Menos. If you could find another, I would stand behind them. (Set BAERNSPEAK=1)
    1. Why don't you run for Mayor?
    I'm afraid Lliira's blessing was to be the leader of troops, not the leader of villagers. No, it cannot be me.
    2. (DONNELSPEAK=1) Perhaps Donnel? sl2_baern_con1
    Donnel? Why, I imagine he would make quite the mayor. He has the support of the farmers and many of the merchants. Tell Donnel I'll support him. (DONNELSUPPORT=1) sl2_baern_act1
    3. If I run across a suitable candidate, I will let you know.
    4. (Captain Mershil's letter in inventory) I have come across this letter in the mayor's mansion. It might be interesting to you. sl2_baern_con2
    Hah! The foolish mayor has a Zhent agent as his advisor! I'll round up the old troops from their homes and we'll raid the mayor's house come morning. (leaves, +500xp) sl2_baern_act2

  17. The Cry of Joy
    Banners proudly display the holy symbol of Lliira. Nearby flowers are neatly tended.
    Joybringer Casledown is the high priest (Cleric, level 6). He greets the party:
    Joybringer: Welcome my friends, to the temple of Lliira. We have many services to offer, despite our recent troubles.
    1. May I look at what services you offer?
    2. Perhaps I can help with your problems. Please, tell me of them.
    Our most precious relic, the Robe of Lliira, has been taken from this temple. We suspect the Cyricists, but have no evidence. Unfortunately, it has divided the town and cause great strife between our people. (Set HEARDROBE = 1) sl2_joy_act1
    1. Who are these Cyricists? Where might I find them?
    The Cyricists are worshipers of the god of Murder. A vile cult indeed. You will find them at the Fist of the Future in the Northeast part of town. Beware, as the priestesses will not allow casual visitors to poke about.
    3. Goodbye.
    4. (Robe in inventory) I believe I have the robe you seek. sl2_joy_con1
    You are a good soul! Please take this small gift as a token of my appreciation. (move towards good, remove item, +500xp, 5 potions of healing) sl2_baern_act2
    The party can get healing and purchase items (2 x potion of Heroism: 900gp, 6 x potion of Cure Moderate Wounds: 300gp, 4 x Cure Light Wounds: 25gp, 2 x Cure Moderate Wounds: 150gp, 2 x Hold Person: 150gp)

  18. Donnel's House
    This sturdy farm house appears to have stood long at this spot. Warm firelight flickers inside and the smell of cherry pie drifts from an open window.
    Donnel: Hail, strangers. What brings you to this part of the Sword Coast?
    1. Who are you?
    My name's Donnel. My sons and I farm the land around here. Harder than normal with the new mayor threatening to raise our taxes.
    1. What are your thoughts on the mayor?
    The scoundrel is bleeding our town dry. He entertains the merchants at his mansion, while leaving us farmers sweating in the fields. I'd run for mayor myself if I had the support I needed.
    2. I see. Well, goodbye.
    2. (BAERNTALK=1 AND MAYORSET=0) I spoke with Baern. He seems to think that you'd make a good mayor. sl2_donnel_con1
    Mayor? Me? Well, if Baern would support me, I'd know I'd at least have the support of the militia. Perhaps I'll talk to the farmers at our next meeting and we'll try to make a run for it. (+300 xp, shift towards law, MAYORSET=1) sl2_donnel_act1
    3. (letter in inventory) I've run across this letter I found in the mayor's mansion. sl2_baern_con2
    I knew it! The mayor's advisor is a Zhentarim agent. Sorry, friend. I've got to organize the other farmers before sunrise. We'll take this town back! (leaves, shift towards law, +600xp) sl2_donnel_act2

DM Notes
The Message
- The Walk
- Eureka
- Caves, level 1
- Caves, level 2
- Forest of Wyrms


Hill's Edge
- Hill's Edge
- Mayor's House
- Cyric Temple


Skull Gorge
- Side View
- Level 1 (Upper Temple)
- Level 2 (Entrance)
- Level 3 (Minor Oddities)
- Level 4 (Blasphemes)
- Level 5 (Tal'Nash)


Stonemeet
- Stonemeet
- West Caves
- South Caves
- East Caves
- Phthta's Realm


Enter the Shadow
- Blood Choice
- Forever Lords
- Undying


Extras