Underground Tunnels (Wandering Monster Tables)

Far beneath much of the snowy lands on Nyssa, is a wide geography of tunnels where huge swaths of civil and uncivil races reside. They fight, plunder or hunt, looking for lost magic, treasure and weapons - trying to gain an edge before another group does them in. Just as often it is adventurers from above, as monsters from below. Allies can be made, but assume most things you meet will try to kill you.

Many non-adventures assume everything is controlled by the Lizardith or Lizard men city-nations. 
While they certainly have the largest individual mass, and the most numbers, they tear each other apart just as quick as attack strangers from anywhere. 

Monsters are found in the Pathfinder Monster books I - V, as well as my own beasties, some  left overs from 3.5 edition and other books.

In most dungeons I do an approximate 50-50% breakdown of set creatures and wandering monsters. 
For example in Rooms A, C, E, & F there may be known creatures or situations that the party will most likely interact with. In the other places - Rooms B, D, G - I roll a wandering monster check. Then anytime the party makes significant noise, rests, disturbs the area, etc roll the +/- chance as normal.

Base Chance: 3 / 20 base likelihood.  Add +1 for every missed opportunity. After a hit, reduce by half but never lower than base. 

Otherwise, use the table as you see fit. 

Underground Wandering Monster Table

1. Adult White Dragon               CR 10 PF 1 

2. Omox                                      CR 12 PF 3

3. Neothelid                                CR 15 PF 1   
4. Roper                                      CR 12 PF 1

5. Cave In     (25% something in the debris is useful)

6. Azruverda                               CR 13 PF 2

7. Gorazagh                                CR 13 PF 2

8. Mihstu                                     CR 8  PF 3

9. Vemerak                                  CR 14 PF 3

10. Giant                                     CR 10 PF 1

11. Destrachun                            CR 8   PF 3

12. Deathtrap Ooze                     CR 8   PF 2

13. Caulborn                               CR 7   PF 2

14. Chaos Beast                          CR 7   PF 3

15. Statue     (# 2d4; Reroll to Monster or Humanoid Type)                   

16. Gug                                      CR 10 PF 3

17. Black Pudding                      CR 7  PF 1

18. Civilized Contact (See Subrace Table Below)

19. Shard Slag                            CR 8 PF 4

21. Dire Bear                              CR 7 PF 1

22. Cerebrc Fungus                    CR 3 PF 2

23. Brain Ooze                            CR 7 PF 2

24. Disenchanter Snake              CR 3 PF 2

25. Abandoned Campsite (25% something in the debris is useful)
26. Myceloid                                CR 4 PF 2

27. Adherer.                                 CR 3 PF 2

28. Ascomid                                 CR 5 PF 2

29. Diplomatic (See Subrace Table Below)

30. Belker                                     CR 6 PF 3

31 Amphisbema                           CR 4 PF 3

32 Blood Hag                               CR 8 PF 4

33 Blindheim                               CR 2 PF 3

34 Iron Salamander                      CR 5 PF 1    

35 Stalactites # 2-16 (Reroll to determine if anything is hiding, DMs discretion if not usable)

36 Crysmal                                  CR 3 PF 3

37 Dark Ones                               CR 2+ PF 3

38 Decampus                               CR 4 PF 3

39. Magma Elemental                 CR V PF 3

40. Mud Elemental                      CR V PF 3

41. Faceless Stalker                     CR 4 PF 3

42 Fungal Crawler                       CR 3 PF 3

43. Tarantula Giant                      CR 8 PF 3

44 Grick                                       CR 3 PF 3

45 Pit (see below)

46. Ogre                                        CR 3 PF 1

47. Pech                                        CR 3 PF 3

48. Phycomid                                CR 4 PF 3

49. Sandman                                 CR 3 PF 3   

50 - 51. Patrol (See Subrace Table Below)

52. Seagathi                                  CR 5 PF 3   
53. Slithering Tracker                   CR 4 PF 3        

54. Slur                                         CR 2 PF 3

55. Petrified Mushrooms # 2-16 (Reroll to determine if anything is hiding, DMs discretion if useful)

56. Rock Troll                               CR 4 PF 3  
57. Buggane                                  CR 5 PF 4

58. Beholder, Lesser Nyssian       CR 6  (Six eyes)

59. Fungal Beast                           CR 4 PF 4

60. Graeae                                     CR 5 PF 4

61. Lampad                                   CR 5 PF 4

62. Lurking Ray                            CR 4 PF 4

63. Mudlord                                  CR 6 PF 4

64. Nightgaunt                              CR 4 PF 4

65. Stone Stairs (70% Up, 30% down)

66. Shriezak                                  CR 4 PF 4

67. Animated Object                     CR 6 PF 1 (reroll on object table)

68. Lesser Barghest                       CR 3 PF 1

69. Basilisk                                   CR 5 PF 1

70. Cave Fisher                            CR 2 PF 1

71. Choker                                    CR 2 PF 1

72. Cloaker                                   CR 5 PF 1

73. Cyclops, Kabandha                 CR 9 PF 5

74. Gelatinous Cube                     CR 3 PF 1

75. Shrine / Obelisk / Burial Site    (50% something useful at site)

76. Gray Ooze                              CR 4 PF 1

77. Kyton                                      CR 6 PF 1

78. Mephit                                    CR 3 PF 1

79. Mimic                                     CR 4 PF 1 (reroll on object table)

80. Trader (See Subrace Table Below)

81. Morlock                                   CR 2 PF 1

82. Ochre Jelly                               CR 5 PF 1

83. Otyugh                                     CR 4 PF 1

84. Rust Monster                           CR 3 PF 1

85. Pool of Water  (80% bad stench)

86. Giant Scorpion                        CR 3  PF 1

87. Shadow                                    CR 3 PF 1 

88. Gibbering Mouther                  CR 5 PF 1 

89. Gorgon                                     CR 8 PF 1

90. Caller in Darkness                   CR 9  PF 5
91. Greater Barghest                      CR 7 PF 1

92. Medusa                                    CR 7 PF 1

93. Dark Naga                                CR 8 PF 1

94. Intellect Devourer                    CR 8 PF 1

95. Waterfall  (01-30% hiding monster, 31-70 reroll for hidden monster; 71+ hidden passageway) 

96. Undead (See Subrace Table Below)

97. Ghoul, Leng                            CR 10  PF 5

98. Denizen of Leng                      CR 8  PF 3

99. Purple Worm                           CR 12 PF 1

100. DM's Choice


Pits are usually 20-80 feet deep and covers most of the width of the cave. (Reroll to determine what's inside the Pit) or 5% Reverse Pit (Fall Up to the ceiling; 50% dmg base)

When a general type of monster is found, use the sub-race table and description listed below for purpose. A DM can pick as needed or use the default mentioned by asterisk (*).  

Hunting Patrol           Commerce                           Diplomatic

2. Human                     2. Axomite                           2. Jackalla *

3. Jahlen                       3 - 4. Dwarf *                      3. Mongrelman

4 - 6. Lizardith *          5 - 6. Troglydyte                  4. Corlth

7. Derro                        7. Human                             5. Trox

8. Dwarf                       8. Corlth                               6. Human

9. Clockwork               9. Goblin                              7. Dwarf

10. Trox                       10. Lizardith                         8 - 9. Lizardith

11. Goblin                    11. Corlth                             10. Goblin

12. Minotaur                12. Mercane                         11. Troglydyte

12. Ratling                   13. Ratling                           12.  Azer
                                     14. Azer                               13. Ratling
                                     15. Axomite                        14. Samsaran
                                     16. Shabti                            15. Minotaur      

                                                                                 16. Caligni 

   

Civilized                       Crypt                                 Common Underground Object  

2. Skum                       2-3.  Shabti                           2. Small Statue
3. Troglydyte               4. Crypt Thing     3. Wheel

4 Corlth                       5 .  Restless    4. Debris (Usually Mechanical)

5. Flumph                    6-8. Cadaver *  5. Broken Weapon

6. Mongrelman            9.   Lesser Mummy              6. Broken Armor

7. Goblin                     10.  Wight                             7. Busted Barrel    
8. Derro                       11.  Wraith                            8. Boxes       

9. Human                     12.  Shadow                          9. Broken Camping Gear   

10. Lizardith                13   Festering Spirit              10. Animal Carcass 

11. Minotaur                14. Samsaran                        11. Iron Rations (40% Stale)

12. Azer                       15 - 16 Jackalla                    12. Beer, Barrel or Bottle  

13. Ratling *                                                              13. Wine / Alcohol Bottles  

14. Sinspawn                                                             14. Bundles of Rope     

15. Oread                                                                   15. Candles or Torches  2-4 

16. Changeling                                                          16. Ornamental Decoration / Holy Symbol     

17. Trox                                                                     17. Climbing Gear      

18. Samsaran                                                             18. Broken Mirror      

19. Axomite                                                               19. Unidentified Corpse

20. Mercane                                                               20. Burnt Lamp     
21. Caligni                                                                 21. 50% One Boot; 50% two good boots
22. Ghoran                                                                 22. 2 silver arrows OR daggers (DM`s choice)
23. Shabti                                                                   23. Magical Potion
24. Jackalla                                                                 24. Coin Purse (1d00 silver pieces)
                                                                             
Hunting Patrols: 2-8 individuals, with typical weapons for the race in question. 10% likelihood they are returning home. May provide a +/- 2 on next roll if they are engaged in conversation or bribed via any social skill interaction the DM feels appropriate (Social DC 15).

Commerce: 11-20 people, with trading gear. Half the travelers are defenders. Most groups have a way to hide or protect themselves. 20% likelihood they are returning home. May provide a +/- 3 on next roll if they are engaged in conversation or bribed. (Social DC 18)

Diplomatic: 9-16 people who have arranged to make a meeting to discuss peace. will have 25% or more of spell casters. 33% likelihood they are returning home. May provide a +/- 2 on next roll if they are engaged in conversation or bribed. (Social DC 16)

Civilized: 23-80 individuals, inhabiting a small settlement. 10% chance they will have trading supplies. May provide a +/- 4 on next roll if they are engaged in conversation, have able goods or bribed. (Social DC 13)  

Crypt: 2-8 individuals. Most are lost, hungry or otherwise purposeless, rarely a direct threat to other groups unless the party seems very weak. Undead groups often come from another common groups found in the same region - often they don`t even realize they are dead. Many travelers simply leave any undead they find without interacting with them unless absolutely necessary. Samsaran are living creatures that automatically reincarnate (one time) from dead corpses- they come to crypts to look for guidance. Shabti are former wealthy people who paid for resurrection. Jackalla are undead hunters.

Infected Lycanthrope Template

This is how I treat lycanthopy in my games. It is a curse, but it can also be a boon, depending upon the character, as it has quite a few benefits for non-spellcasters, ranger or standard fighters.

If a character is infected by lycanthropy, the player has three game options: find a cure, create a new character OR they take the template below. They do not lose any class abilities, but they gain the abilities listed below and cannot take new levels in any other classes. If they do not seek a cure, they become stronger were-beasts as they increase in HD / class levels.

Infected Lycanthrope Base

Gain Monster HD for any additional levels until cured
Transform when their primary moon is full or if they are severely injured
All HD or level here refers to their lycanthrope HD not total level

Gain +2 to any two ability scores when transformed (Str, Dex, Con)
Gain + 2 to these scores every 3rd HD attained (+4 at 4th HD, +6 at 7th HD, +8 at 10th HD)
Gain natural weapons, animal empathy of their kin, darkvision and low-light vision plus scent.

Infected Lycanthropes gain either hybrid or full Animal form. Gain 3rd form at 10 HD
Increase natural attacks by upsizing dice damage every 3 HD (1d6 -- 1d8 -- 1d10 -- 1d12 -- 2d8)
Gain +1 to Natural AC for every two Lycanthrope HD attained, but only when transformed
Gain DR Silver 1 / Lycanthrope HD but only when transformed

HD Increase: Feat +1/2 levels, +6 skills, statistical increases every 5 levels

They lose ability to utilize weapons in either hybrid or animal form.

If in animal form they take temporary dmg equal to half granted armor AC every hour if the character remains in armor.

An infected Lycanthrope does not transmit the curse unless they bite (total percentage of damage arising inflicted by their bite damage. Any magical healing before the next moon night, reduces the calculated chance.)

A PC who gains 10 Lycanthrope levels gains the Natural Lycanthrope status, and is in full control of their curse and can infect others from their bites but others are not automatically at risk of infection. They cannot be cured of lycanthropy after this point. No other character class options until they reach 10 Monster HD levels

Curse of Lycanthrope

Anytime a character is attacked by a lycanthrope, there is a chance the disease is spread based on the below calculation table if they want to avoid contracting the .

10% or less of Max HP - Fort DC 13
11-25% or less of Max HP - Fort DC 16
26-50% of Max HP - Fort DC 20
51-75% or Max HP - Fort DC 25
+1 DC for every additional 5% dmg inflicted.

A PC may forgo their save to gain the Lycanthrope Curse if they are bitten. They may still be cured, if they go to a cleric who casts remove curse. Lawful Good characters may not gain the curse willingly but they need not lose their class levels from this if they take precautions. They must leave civilizations to hunt on moon filled nights. If they do not attack innocents or break other vows, they should be able to maintain their class vows and morality.

Clerics and Paladins have the most at risk, most will lock themselves up if they cannot find a magical cure.  Druids, however, have little downside and many will seek this as a natural blessing.

Characters who die before the next full moon, but are raised, must save at the next two occasions but each time is at half their normal chance.

PCs can not start as Natural Lycanthropes and cannot control when they change. Immediately after transformation, the PCs becomes an NPC, but the character may be controlled by the player for combat that induces the change - DM'S ruling. Most times the werebeast leaves, does their were business and then returns in the morning. The character may not be at the same HP as when they left. Characters cannot regain spells or HP after a night of hunting.

Transform during full moon nights or when under emotional or physical strain.. Natural Lycanthropes never change uncontrollably unless they are reduces to 10% or less of their full HP total.

Infected lycanthropes can seek a cure. A remove curse by a 15th level cleric of a good deity agaisnt a DC 30 is the default. By making offerings, or going on a quest, can decrease the required DC.

Uncontrolled Transformation

A Lycanthrope will ALWAYS transform when at 10% of Max HP
1 or 2 HD will transform when at 80% of Max HPs - DC 12 Will or Fort save to avoid change
3 HD - Transform when at 60% of max HPs - DC 15 Will or Fort save to avoid change
6 HD - Transform when at 40% of max HPs - DC 18 Will or Fort save to avoid change
9 HD - Transform when at 20% of max HPs - DC 23 Will or Fort save to avoid change
12 HD - An infected Lycanthrope gains mastery over their condition and can change at will
15 HD - Transform into the next size level, double base movement, +6 on all physical changes

The listed HD are for lycanthrope HD levels only. If a 10th level character has seven fighter levels and 3 HD, use only 3 HD for transformation nnumbers.

When the character changes, they continue combat. When fighting is over, they will not attack allies and most leave to hunt until the next morning

PCs control if they want to change back. It the character is in an urban setting, they may have committed evil acts when hunting. If in a rural setting then they may have hunted animals and not have done anything too bad.


Multiple Moons

Nyssa, my game world, has at any point during the year 17 visible moons. Depending upon where the viewer is located only three are fully visible in the sky. Technically, every person born on Nyssa has a corresponding governing moon which influences their destiny. Each moon is full for five days during a 50 day cycle per standard months. These five days for their moon, the lycanthrope will transform.

The problem though is that many moons intersect their magic of other moon, so even if a particular moon isn`t full, one of it`s cousins moon, can affect the magic and lycanthropy cycle.

Refer to the table below on any night their Governing Moon is not full:

2-5       Moon Spinning, No Transformation but will still feel the need to hunt
6-9       Moon waxing with Cousins (50% chance)
10-12   Moon waning with Cousins (75% chance)
13          True full Moon - Will transform
14-16   Moon Waning with Cousins (35%)
17-19   Moon Waning with Cousins (15%)
20-24   Moon Hidden - No Transformation

Snoopy. Advanced White Hair Beagle (Animal Companion)

Should have wrote this beastie for my Candyland game I ran a few months back. But will be going into my random tables very soon!

Snoopy
Advanced White Haired Beagle

Small Sized Fae CR 3

AC 17 touch 14, flat-footed 13 (+4 Dex, +3 natural) 

HD 5D6+15 (32 hp)

Saves Fort +4 Ref +8 Will +4

Init +8

Speed 30 or 50 when running on four paws

BAB +2 CMB +2  CMD +16

Melee +6 bite (1d6) or by weapon +6 (Hammer, Dagger or Slingshot)

Special Attacks Backstab as rogue (Backstab damage as HD for = Rogue Level)

Special Defenses Dmg Reduction 5 / Magic

Skills Climb +7, Bluff +9, Perception +9; Perform (Dance) +8, Knowledge (Geography, Magic, Music) +10, Stealth +12, Swim +8

Feats Track, Dodge, Weapon Finesse, Imp Initiative

Str 11 Con 17 Dex 19. Int 13. Wis 11. Cha 15

Environment Garden or Candyland

Organization Solitary or Pair

Treasure Average (Coins or gems)

Advancement By HD

Many of my NPC ranger types will have an apparently simple white hound as a pet. They are often in the background, ready to do simple tasks for its master or their allies. Often a Snoopy will leave their master for short periods of time to help allies.

An advanced beagle hound - usually white haired dog with small black spots. They appears to be a hound that can stand upright, walk and run erect and manipulate items or devices with considerable skill with their front paws. They have strong connections with both mortals and fey, seemingly always wanting to help - ready in the background for their friends, watching and protecting when they can. Very well regarded by the Faerie in the Dreamlands, they often hang around portals waiting for their many mates. 

A Snoopy is poor in combat as they rarely use weapons and cannot utilize standard armors. But while not strong in direct confrontations they excel as rogues, having an excellent maneuverability, back stab and knowledge skills. A Snoopy does everything they can to help their allies, but is also willing to abandon them if unable to assist them. Most are careful, thoughtful allies trying to be prepared.

Non Target: A Snoopy cannot be specifically targeted by spells, any attempt to target him fails. They can be caught in an area of effect spell where the Snoopy is one of a number of non specified targets. But they cannot be individualized as the target such as with an aiming spell like magic missile.

Imagineering: A Snoopy can add +20 to any skill rolls every day. He can add these bonuses as an non-named adjustment bonus to single or multiple checks, as long as the cumulative adjustment total does not add to more than 20 in any given day.

Advancement A Snoopy gains 6 skill points and +2 DR every new HD, +1 AC every 2 HD. 
Bite damage is increased by dice every 3 HD to the next dice.

Special Attack Backstab : Their backstab attack is always a bite. 

Jann - Genie-Kin

The least powerful Genie are found through-out in both the cold and the desert wastelands of Nyssa, building relationships with savage and adventurer alike. They are a key group with their trade and social connections.

 Jann: Genie-Kin

CR 2

N         Medium outsider (native)

Init +2; Perception +5

DEFENSE

AC 16, touch 18, flat-footed 18 (+2 natural AC, +2 dexterity)

hp 11 (2d8+4)

Fort +3, Ref +1, Will +1

OFFENSE

Speed 30 ft, Flight 20 ft (1/day)

Melee Short sword +3 (1d6)

Special Elemental Blast (1d6, 3/day)

TACTICS

Jann are quiet, reclusive people that watch dangerous foes and magical sites. When they do approach an enemy, they are usually well prepared and ready to make a sacrifice but they do this only if absolutely required. 

Morale 11 (Skittish, they are easy to break ranks and run for cover)

STATISTICS

Str 14, Dex 15, Con 12, Int 10, Wis 13, Cha 10

Base Atk +1; CMB +1 CMD 13

Feats Combat Reflexes

Skills Appraise +3, Perception +5, Craft (Armor or Weapons) +4, Diplomacy +5, Survival +6, Fly +6

Languages Base Elemental, Common & Giant

SQ Favored Element, Resist Element (10), Telepathy 10 ft

Languages: Phastian & Phaetox; Common, Elven, Giant & Dwarf  ae also often spoken

Location: Primarily Oromos Wood, Spirelands or Northern Reaches

Organization: Pair, Patrol (3-9) or Tribe (15 – 100)

Class Options: By Racial HD or Class

Jann are the descendants of genies, considered lesser elementals by their kin, due to their need to reside on the prime planes and they lack permanent protection from the elements at lower HD levels. Not typical adventurers - they usually seek both knowledge and allies, to maintain their place in both their adopted home and the elemental planes. Looked down upon by genies and humanoids for their weaker abilities, yet they often become brokers, using their knowledge, connections and expertise for a price. 

They often disguise themselves, trying not to openly promote who they are as they can be sometimes forced into providing services. Appear as a dark skinned humanoid, their eyes radiate brightly, and their hands often sparkle with the colour of one of the elements. They always try to build allegiances especially to clerics and wizards but any high ranking soldier or thief can also be quite useful,

A Jann will sell their services for favors when needed. Many times when reached out to for help, the Jann call upon friends upon friends, they will often know someone that can help for a reasonable price. Tend to stay away from most cities, as they can be caught for servitude by both primal and planar adversaries. Get along very well with Phaetox, many wealthy Jann seek to buy nobility or title in these quiet, safe, lawfully-bound communities. Many Elven lords have strong alliances with them, not necessarily for trade but to share information.

Every Jann has a favored element, usually their parental type, with it they are able to use to inflict extra damage. They have no problems working with any type of elemental regardless of the type, it is only the higher HD genie-kin with prejudices. They stay away from summoning creatures, Jann have seen a lifetime of forced servitude - they seek allies not servants, to their cause.

By Racial Levels: All levels gain +5 skill points, Gain new Feat every 2 levels 

3 HD +2 to any ability, Invisibility to Animals, Create Food and Water (2/day); +1 AC

4 HD +2 to any ability, Change Size (2/day) & Element Blast (2d6 - 3/day)

5 HD +2 to any ability, Speak with Animals and Elements, Flight 50 ft (3/day); +1 AC

6 HD +2 to any ability, Telepathy 100 ft, Resist Elements (20)

7 HD +2 to any ability, Invisibility (3/day), Element Blast (3d8 dmg 2 / day); +1 AC

8 HD +2 to any ability, Enter Ethereal Plane (2/day), SR 15, Flight (Good) at will

9 HD +2 to any ability, Full Elemental Resistance, +1 AC

10 HD + 4 Dex & +2 to three others; Gain +2 AC, Element Blast (4d10, 5 /day)

11 HD Plane Shift (3/day), SR 25

+1 HD or Level: Gain +1 on SR by HD or level

Jann usually stay on this advancement path but if they choose to take other classes, they are unable to return to improve their HD any further.

Typical Skills: Appraise, Craft, Diplomacy, Disable Device, Escape Artist, Fly, Heal, Knowledge (nature, geography, religion), Perception, Ride, Sense Motive, Stealth, Survival

Elemental Blast: DC 10+ Con Bonus + HD (+2 for favored element) - Half Damage; Range 60 ft

2 HD – 1d6 dmg; 1/HD, until 5 HD and then at will (Any Element)

4 HD – 2d6 dmg; 3/ Day (Any Element); Range 100 ft

7 HD – 3d8 dmg; 2/Day (Any Element)

10 HD – 4d10 dmg; 5/day (Favored Element only); Changed to Elemental Blast, Range 150 ft

Flight
2 HD: Gain Flight 20 ft (Clumsy) 1 / day plus 1 for HD; +6 on Fly Skill
5 HD: Gain  Flight 40 ft (Average) 3/day; gain +6 on Fly skill
8 HD: Gain Flight 80 ft (Good) at will; gain +6 on fly skill

Note: Elementals in my game world are sentient. While not incredibly wise, they know a few things about what is around them and the things they interact with. If summoned they must obey the Summoner. If not summoned, they cam be reasoned with to follow instructions. Assume their intelligence, wisdom and charisma is equal to their HD number up until 16 HD unless the stat for the actual beast is higher in the standard rules.

Vined Soldier

These are among the most simplistic servants used by druids. Created from fallen soldiers, they arise from the power of the forest, serving their druidic masters in simple tasks. They appear as skeletons with small green vines covering their bones, similar to a living bodies blood vessels. Since they are not the reanimated bodies or spirits, they are not undead, they are animated through the plants.


Vined Soldier

N Medium Plant
Init -1 Senses Low-light vision; Perception +X

 DEFENSE

AC 11 touch 9, flat-footed 11 (-1 Dex, +2 natural)
hp 9 hp (2d8)
Fort +3, Ref -1, Will +0 

 OFFENSE

Speed 30 ft.
Melee Slam +2 (1d6+1)
Ranged Net +0 (1d2), Range 20 ft, Ref DC 11 to avoid or escape

 STATISTICS 

Str 13, Dex 9, Con 10, Int 4, Wis 10, Cha 4
Base Atk +1 CMB +2 CMD 11
Feats Power Attack
Skills +4 climb, +2 Perception , -1 Stealth

 ECOLOGY

Environment     Druids Grove
Organization     Solitary or Clan (3-6)
Treasure Value  Quarter or less
Advancement Range: 3 or 4 HD; +1 level as Barbarian or Fighter Class

Appear as a zombie or skeleton with small, thin but very visible green vines covering them, quite similar to blood vessels but these vines are what is causing the dead skeleton to move, thus this is actually categorized as a plant and not a true undead. They are one of the most common servants that druids use, as they are from living creatures killed in a forest, most often from armies that invade the forest. These corpses are then buried in or near a druid's grove and are raised by the magic of the forest. The vines that surround the dead, act a bit like living blood vessels, but these spread the magic that enables the vine zombie to act, the only requirement for the corpses is that they are complete corpses.  Most druids will tear off the faces of these zombies so they are unrecognizable.

A Vined Soldier is treated as a plant, though most often seen as undead by those unfamiliar with them. However, they can be turned if they are in dungeons as undead, but at +4 bonus to resist. Near a druid's grove, they cannot be turned.

Though rare it is sometimes possible for long-serving vine soldiers to gain sentience, as the vines cognizance combines with the memories of the dead to become more than either alone. Still loyal to the druids cause but they have their own purposes. For this reason, many druids retire them after a few years as these mixed beings are sorrowful creatures, unable to fit in either with the living, the dead or other sentient plant creatures,

Smurfling - Small Sized, Blue Coloured Fey

I wanted to create something like these for my fae themed game a while ago, but didn't come up with a good way to run them. Inspired by the tv cartoon that I used to watch in my youth.

Smurfling

Tiny Sized Fey                                   CR 1

AC 16 (+2 Dex, +2 Natural, Size +6), Touch 13, Flat 13

HD 1D6+1 (4 hp)

Saves Fort +1 Ref +4 Will +2

Init +2

Speed 10

Str 5 Con 12 Dex 15. Int 10. Wis 11. Cha 13

Base Atk +3      CMB -4      CMD 8

Melee +3 weapon (Hammer or Slingshot 1d3)

Special Attacks Joined Attack

Special Defenses. Reduce Injury 3 / -, Playful Demeanor

Skills Craft (Any One)+ 3, Climb or Swim +4, Perception +3; Perform (Dance) +10*, Stealth +6

Feats Weapon Finesse or Skill Focus (Any Craft)

Environment Garden or Candyland

Organization Gathering (50-400)

Treasure Half (gems, coins or potions)
Alignment  Any Good ("Bad" Smurflings are Neutral aligned)

Advancement By class (Expert, Rogue, Druid or Ranger most common)

For every additional HD achieved: +2 in Reduce Injury and +1/+1 in ability score adjustments. They also increase +1 in natural AC for every 2 HD gained.

Reduce Injury: Similar to Damage Reduction except it minimizes only after basic injury is inflicted, reducing damage on a one-to-one basis until its limit. For example a 1 HD Smurf would be affected: 
One damage Inflicted = One HP Dmg Taken
Two damage Inflicted = One HP Dmg Taken
Three damage Inflicted = Two HP Dmg Taken

Joined Attack: The few times Smurflings cannot use their charm or escape an encounter through wit, they are able to attack en masse. For every four that attack the same foe, increase both the base calculation and damage dice. (1d3 -- 1d4 -- 1d6 -- 1d8 - 1d10). 

Playful Demeanour Smurflings gain +8 on social skills due to their playfulness. Fey and good aligned outsiders would never consider hurting a Smurfling.

Smurflings are one and a half foot tall fey that have blue skin. They reside in mushroom homes within their forest villages, living in balance with the environment around them. Friendly and helpful, they are keen on making new allies but prefer to avoid strangers as they have been hurt in the past. 

These magical creatures are at one with the animals, plants and fey beings around them. Most of their allies believe they arise spontaneously during blue moon months, a new Smurfling is born inside a blossoming flower. Smurflings are a male species, while there are crazy rumours of females being hatched, this has never been proven. 

Most of their kind focuses on one type of craft to specialize in, not for profit but for the benefits it brings to their village. Smurflings sometimes gain Rogue or Ranger classes to defend their kin and friends from the dangers of the forest. Druid is the most common spell-caster, though Bards just as respected. 

As a magically enriched fey race, Smurflings are living spell components, they do not need components for spells of less than 5th level. In addition, they can create spells that typically fit into another casters area of specialty, but the Smurfling casters can still cast. If working in conjunction with others, they can enhance spells or reduce saving throws beyond comprehension by dance or musical accompaniment. For this reason many evil spell casters seek them out, waiting to use them to buff their castings. While their allies are always concerned, these fey always finds a way to overcome threats.

*    *    *   *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *  

I am leaning towards using  Reduce Injury to replace simple Damage reduction.

Table Rules

My House Rules - These are the assumed rules I use for running all games. Even when I run other system stories and I am gm, this is what I think should be the default. Again, most times unless it is appropriate, I just use these rules unless there`s apart of the story/game that dictates otherwise.


Clerics, except for raise dead spells, require only one spell component - their holy symbol, this is the rule for all spells regardless of the description in the PHB or other sources. Clerics are utterly tied to their holy symbol, which is why most will have more than one in their possession.  If they lose access to their holy symbol, they cannot cast any spells. One free feat clerics receive at first level is Create Holy Symbol. This requires 1 hour of prayer at an obelisk or holy site, (or six hours otherwise) and they must verbally say the required prayers. If they are unable to complete the verbal and somatic components, they cannot complete this ritual.

Wizards do not require spell components for spells less than 3rd level while in cities, as there is plenty of magical energies as a result of the obelisks or temples nearby. This is not assumed to be the case in remote areas. The dedication of the obelisk is unimportant, if it acts as a connection to the heavenly or demonic forces, it will still charge all spell casters as noted above.

Undead arise when anything dies and the corpse is not properly interned. Things killed by undead generally take 5-12 days, unless a shorter period is listed in the monsters description. If killed by anything else (including a natural death), it usually takes 21-40 days, and will usually arise as a Carcass (HD 1+.) Anything that dies in a settled area will be buried in either a druid's grove, temple's catacombs or public mausoleum usually called Tower of Sorrow. Searing Towers are an archaic tradition of cremation, especially in Phastia, the Desert Lands. Creating undead is perhaps the most vile and hated action imaginable, no society (evil or chaotic ones) condones it.

Constructs treat their HD number as their intelligence, wisdom and charisma scores until they reach 15 HD. If they have an intelligent score higher than 7, they can speak. Otherwise use as per the construct entry in the MM. Constructs have no soul at creation, though rare, it is possible for them to generate one. Some sentient constructs worship the Holy Cog, and can gain cleric levels in lawful forces.

Cosmology There are no stars in the sky. 4 moons dominate. The seasons, magic cycles, predictions are based on their relative locations. There are actually more than 100 moons all around, very few of them are ever actually visible without a telescope, but they all have meaning and most have specific connections to magic, fate and the gods. Weeks are also usually called the Ten-Day. Years are called Cycles. Months are often called Turns, and are each five weeks long there are 15 to a standard year. Holidays occur outside of the weeks.

Deities The High Gods cannot physically come to Nyssa, only their proxies or servants. Most gods have multiple domains, each will have a different proxy or Avatar. These are utterly and completely loyal. Demi-Gods are able to walk the land, but only in areas of their faithful.

Active vs Passive Skill Checks: If the player asks to do something, that is an active roll, and done as normal. At any time, a DM can roll at a half chance check to determine if they notice or realize something that just jumps into their heads, this is a passive roll.

Roll vs Role Playing: How they do something is equally important as a dice roll. For example with trap finding: If a player tells me what they are going to do or how they are going to check, if it fits the scenario, I give them a bonus to the skill check roll. If a player tells me look for traps, without any detail or description, they just roll the dice. This is how a non-thief can potentially disarm a trap, or convince a stranger to do something, or anything else in game, etc.

Low Magic My world is an assumed low magic item world, every dweomered item essentially decays over months (or years), so going into a dungeon they might find info, scrolls and coins, but all the 'Real Magic' has long since faded back into the Ether. Only items found on an outer-plane or at last partially stuck in the Ether can avoid this, but then once on Nyssa, the decay starts to happen. There are ways to avoid this, but usually only available at higher levels.

Free Character Change No penalty for changing characters: outside of a dungeon.  Go ahead, play what you want. Getting killed imposes a slight drop in level for starting a new character.

Dueling Proficiency: Most characters are proficient with both rapier and dagger, as duels are common and it is the weapon of choice for aristocrats and most soldiers. You can carry these anywhere. Many places allow dueling, as it's assumed that both parties consent. Even in places that do not allow dueling as a daily practice, it happens on Sword Day (last day of the Ten-Day week) as its a traditional fair day when competition happens. Duels, both for training and honor occur regularly. The majority of duels are stopped once three strikes happen or other stated condition.

Firearms are available in some remote locations much more common than urban ones. Though guns cannot be enchanted; ammunition can be. However, it is more common for ammunition to be made out of magical materials (like anthril), but is rare and expensive.

Spells or spell-like affects are not affected by critical or fumble rolls unless there are side rules specifically in the spell description.

Teleport Spell (5th level) can only be cast from one teleport pad to another. You must know the exact location of the second pad. If it is blocked (a simple cloth covering it) you cannot teleport through. It takes one hour to carve a temporary teleport insignia in sand (up to six hours if in stone.) The Greater Teleport (7th level) does not need a teleport pad to begin; but it always needs a teleport pad to go to.


A hoard of gold (especially coins) act as a blocker, which is one reasons why kings and dragons cannot be scryed. Top priority.

A hoard of silver (especially coins) acts as an enhancer to many spell & spell effects involving illusions.  Most Fey collect silver for this reason. Seconded priority.

A hoard of platinum (especially coins) prevents charm spells & effects. Some say this is why it is so rare. No Priority - works when there are more platinum in one central location.

A hoard of electrum (especially coins) prevents deception in spells or spell effects.

A hoard of copper coins prevents strength draining magic or effects. Giants always have tonnes of copper in their lairs.

Japeth - High Paladin, Lord of Protection, God of Courage

This was the first of the deities codes that I created for one of my games. A long time ago... I had a good player, but he always seemed to stretch what he could when running his paladin which caused many of the other players frustration. I wrote the code, and said that it was up to him to interpret him, but that I expected him to keep it. He did and always did a good job, and stepped up to game it in a good, consistent and fun way. It worked so well, I eventually wrote the codes as brief belief outlines for my other good aligned gods.

Japeth - God of Courage

Alignment: Lawful Good
Follower's Alignment: Any non-chaotic & non-evil
Associated Colour: Orange
Holy Days: Every Month or once a Tenday
Sacrifice: Tithe (10%) or twenty days of service every year
Patron: Paladin, Lawyers, Scribes, Politicians, Soldiers
Familiar Form: Tiger, Orange Fox
Domains: Good, Law, Protection, War
Prohibited Domains: Chaos, Darkness, Destruction, Evil, Madness, Trickery
Followers Titles: Paladin, Defender, Knight, Orange Sash Knight, General


God of Courage. High Paladin. Lord of the Holy. The sword and the shield. The protector. The ever-vigilant. These are the names for Japeth, the High Lord Paladin, defender of the weak. He is a hero, always willing to sacrifice himself for the greater cause. He is also brother to Cush, the Chaotic Evil Lord of bloodshed and murder, and always they fight in a eternal struggle. Yet, there are stories told of many adventures they undertook together

He is the patron of paladins, and all warriors who risk their lives to protect someone else. He is the celestial general and just as others follow him, so too his followers lead other mortals. Yet, unlike many mortals, Japeth knows he is a leader in wartime, and is a steadfast servant to His queen – Quanna. Studied experts also revere the High Lord, as they know that generals don't just lead because of grace or charm, but work and dedication to a cause.

Orange is the most often worn colour for his faithful, it represents tenacity of purpose. Many times, the devoted wear trim of gold, green, purple or brown to show their unity with other faiths. Perhaps because of the great devotion that mortal paladins show Japeth, he constantly tries to show his own willingness to serve others for he leads by example, an important tenet in the faith.

His familiar form is that of a tiger, large, strong and brave. It appears when invoked, ready to guard an important paladin or cleric. Often, they come not during battle, but in times of supposed safety, to remind the faithful that they must always be ready. These forms can be sent to the faithful, but do not remain under the command of a paladin, always to a cleric, and usually to someone protecting a holy site. An orange-tailed or a fully orange fur-skin animal is a common familiar type, that suddenly appears serving someone of the faith.

His avatar is a paladin, in full plate armor, and a golden vorpal sword; ready to strike down evil. They say few words, but may lead the faithful in a battle song. They stand in front of a leader, and will defend them at any cost. When accompanied by at least a dozen faithful, he can sing a song of sharpness, giving all other warriors within 200 feet of him, remarkable abilities with their own swords. At the battle of Thoresh, he slew avatars to both Keran and Cush; yet he fell from the massive damage inflicted by a greater tyrant.


Japeth’s Code
Remember, lead by example
Show honour to all
Obey the law
Protect the weak, our charge
Enforce the rules
And not your beliefs
Respect the enemy
But never let them see doubt
For we are brave, strong and true
Go in the name of Japeth
He will protect you, Always

Blue Bees of Boreth

On Nyssa, all healing magics have a blue colour, and some experts believe it was the use of these blue potions from the blue bees that created the first association.

Blue Bees of Boreth
Dimunitive Outsider (Swarm)

Init:                      +6
HD:                     40hp (9d8+0 con) 
Speed:                 Fly 60 (E)
AC                      20 (+2 size, +6 Dex, +2 natural), touch 18, flat-footed 14 
BAB +14           CMB -1      CMD 16
Attack: Swarm (2d6)+
SA:                      Buzzing as Distraction (17)
SQ:                      Immune to Poison, Swarm traits
Saves: F +6, R +11, W +6
Abilities: S 1, D 22, Co 10, In 7, W 12, Ch 10
Skills: Perception +17
Feats: Alertness, Iron Will, Lightning Reflexes
Environment: Spirelands (Bor-Vessan Region)
Organization: Rave (5-7 Swarms)
CR: 4
Treasure: None
Alignment: Neutral
Advancement: None

The blue bees are infamous in the Boreth Spireland region for many reasons, primarily because of the blue honey made from there nectar. Unlike other kinds of bees, they do not have a poisonous sting, but they do significant damage because of their numbers. Few other creatures would dare hold these creatures prisoner, their buzzing sound drives men insane.

Bee farmers from the region discovered that the buzzing could be countered by concentration, they train their young men to ignore the damning buzz, and it is these few that harvest the blue nectar. These bottles of blue honey are usually sold for 50 crowns (g.p.) but some of the more elaborate bottles can go for much higher. Druids often use the blue honey for components for many potions and elixirs.

Buzzing: Their constant buzzing is maddening, those who hear it must save vs Will 17 or go into a blind rage, unable to control their action and will do anything to get away from the sound.

Swarm: These bees inflict 2d6 on the first round. For each additional round, their attack inflicts +1d6 additional damage.

Nyssian Choker

I have always loved the choker creature, as it seems to be the most typical dungeon creeper: looking for food and scraps of treasure, never overly dangerous, but something that fits into the underground lurker theme so well. But I dislike their small size and bare intelligence, Mine is adjusted for levels and size, you can scale the HD to use them not just as threats for the lowest levels. Good stand alone protector, willing to hide until the time is right to strike.  

Nyssian Choker

NE Small Aberration
Init +6 Senses Darkvision 60 ft.; Perception +X

 DEFENSE

AC 17 touch 13, flat-footed 15 (+2 Dex, +4 natural, +1 size)
hp 16hp (3d8+3 con)
Fort +2, Ref +3, Will +4

 OFFENSE

Speed 20 ft. Climb 10 ft
Melee 2 Tentacles +6 (1d4+3)

 STATISTICS

Str 16, Dex 14, Con 13, Int 6, Wis 13, Cha 7
Base Atk +2 CMB +4 CMD 16
Feats Improved Initiative, Skill Focus (Stealth)
Skills Climb +16,Stealth + 13
Languages Undercommon, 50% understand local common

 ECOLOGY

Environment  Any non Extreme (Garden or Urban)

Organization  Solitary or Pair 

Treasure Value Half Standard

Advancement Typically Monster / HD or rogue levels

Appear identical to the standard creature, but increases to a medium size at 4 HD. They are also much smarter then typical chokers found on many other worlds. This doesn't mean their primary tactics are vastly different but they do have an escape route ready if the attack fails. They are anti-social, preferring to be left alone to do their work, guarding small areas, either in dungeons or locations next to them.

Unlike their kin, they often work for others, as part of lair defenses to protect an area. they kill weaker creatures and capture others so they can be questioned. They follow simple orders, as they have problems with anything too complex. Stories abound over city revolutions, where one group is deposed and another coming into power, and they still don't even know where the choker guards or their safe words to get through dangerous passageways protected by these critters.

HD Advancement Table

4 HD +6 skills, Feat, Increase to Medium Size, +1 natural AC, Increase Dmg (1d6+3)*

5 HD +6 skills, Increase Tentacle Dmg (1d6+Double Strength Dmg)

6 HD. +2/+2 to any 2 Ability Scores, +6 skills, Feat, +1 natural AC

7 HD +6 skills, Increase Tentacle Dmg (1d8+Double Strength Dmg)

8 HD Gain +2/+2 to any 2 Ability Scores, +6 skills, Feat, +1 natural AC

9 HD +6 skills, Increase Tentacle Dmg (1d10+Triple Strength Dmg), +1 natural AC

+HD Natural AC increase every other HD, +6 skills, Increase choking multiplier dmg every +3 HD

Monster HD increase is the most typical route for advancement but the rare few will gain rogue levels. Once they take non-HD levels they are unable to gain additional Monster HD.

*Only one tentacle does maximum damage, the other is one damage level down. Normally if the first attack is successful that one inflicts max damage. If the second one hits, it does the higher damage capacity.