Journey to Cragmaw Castle
The party regroups after the chaos at Phandalin and sets out toward Cragmaw Castle to confront the remnants of the Black Spider’s forces and rescue the missing Gundren brothers. With determination burning brighter than the smouldering ruins they left behind, the adventurers prepare for a perilous journey through the forests and hills of the Sword Coast.
Cragmaw Castle Assault
The ruined fortress looms over the landscape, its crumbling walls teeming with goblins, hobgoblins, and worse. The adventurers launch their assault, facing ambushes, traps, and monstrous defenders as they carve a bloody path through the castle’s defenders.
Key Encounters:
- The Gate Ambush: The party’s approach triggers a defensive counterattack by goblin archers and hobgoblin captains.
- Beast in the Courtyard: A chained owlbear serves as a brutal obstacle, unleashed as the fight escalates.
- The Warchief’s Last Stand: King Grol, the goblin warchief, confronts the adventurers in his throne room, flanked by bodyguards and supported by his pet wolf.
Victory and Discovery:
Amidst the blood and rubble, the adventurers uncover more about the Black Spider’s plans and secure clues pointing toward Wave Echo Cave. They also free Gundren if he is still alive—or discover grim evidence of his fate.
Meanwhile at Thundertree
While the main party faces down goblins, Weeka and Kon travel separately to investigate the ruins of Thundertree. The overgrown village whispers of its tragic past, with buildings long abandoned and nature reclaiming its streets.
Exploration and Danger:
- Spiders and Shadows: Giant spiders lurk in collapsed buildings, remnants of the corruption that consumed the village.
- The Druid’s Warning: An enigmatic druid warns Weeka and Kon about dangers ahead, hinting at dragon activity and ancient magics tied to the ruins.
- The Dragon’s Shadow: Rumours of a green dragon’s presence keep them on edge as they scour the ruins for artifacts and forgotten lore.
Paths Converge Again
After their separate trials, the party regroups, bringing with them hard-won knowledge and battle scars. With clues pointing toward Wave Echo Cave and dangers mounting, they face a pivotal choice—pursue the Black Spider’s forces or prepare for a confrontation with the dragon stirring in Thundertree.
Their bonds are tested, and their path grows ever darker as the fate of Faerûn teeters on the edge.