Adventure Locations
The desert around The Skeld is dotted with ancient ruins, natural wonders, and dangerous sites that offer both treasure and peril to those brave enough to explore them.
Location Types
Buried Empire Ruins
Remnants of the great Kheth-Moran Empire, buried under sand for over a thousand years. These sites contain powerful artifacts, ancient knowledge, and terrible curses. Most are partially excavated by treasure hunters, but deeper levels remain unexplored.
Natural Formations
The desert's harsh conditions have created unique geological features, some enhanced by ancient magic. These locations often serve as landmarks for travelers and may harbor unusual creatures or phenomena.
Sacred Sites
Places of religious or cultural significance to the desert peoples. Many are protected by taboos, guardian spirits, or clan law. Disturbing these sites often brings supernatural consequences.
Resource Locations
Rare sources of water, metal, or other valuable materials. These sites are often contested by multiple groups and may be defended by natural or artificial guardians.
Adventure Hooks
Treasure Hunting
Ancient ruins contain valuable artifacts, but also deadly traps and guardians. Successful expeditions require careful planning, proper equipment, and knowledge of the site's history.
Escort Missions
Merchants, scholars, or pilgrims need protection while traveling to dangerous locations. These missions test both combat skills and survival knowledge.
Investigation
Strange phenomena, missing persons, or unusual events require heroes to uncover the truth. These adventures often reveal deeper mysteries about the world's history.
Survival Challenges
Sandstorms, equipment failure, or getting lost in the desert create life-or-death situations where quick thinking and resource management are crucial.
Exploration Guidelines
Preparation
- Water: Carry at least 3 days' supply per person
- Navigation: Compass, maps, and local guides
- Protection: Shelter from sandstorms and sun
- Tools: Rope, shovels, and climbing gear
Dangers
- Environmental: Heat, sandstorms, dehydration
- Creatures: Desert predators and magical beasts
- Traps: Ancient security measures still active
- Curses: Supernatural consequences for trespass
Desert Survival
The desert is unforgiving to the unprepared. Always inform someone of your destination and expected return. Carry emergency supplies and know the signs of heat exhaustion. Many who venture into the wastes are never seen again.
For Game Masters
These locations can be scaled for different party levels and campaign needs. Use environmental challenges to create tension even in combat encounters. Remember that the journey to a location can be as dangerous as the destination itself.