Grave-Soaked Secrets in the Shadow of Nulb, in the World of Greyhawk for the Temple of Elemental Evil DND campaign

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How the Village Graveyard Became a Cornerstone of My Temple of Elemental Evil Campaign When I first laid eyes on the crumbling, moss-covered tombstones of the Nulb Graveyard , I didn’t expect it to become such a pivotal piece of my campaign. But that’s what I’ve come to love about building out the Verbobonc Campaign Guide 576cy —those small, seemingly forgotten places often reveal the most story-rich, atmospheric threads. Nulb , with its damp streets and looming threat of corruption, has always been a favorite location of mine when expanding upon the legendary Temple of Elemental Evil campaign by Gary Gygax. I’ve worked to bring this infamous, chaotic village to life—not as a cardboard cutout of evil, but as a living, breathing space of secrets, routines, and long-buried grief. The graveyard , tucked between Baroness Nysera’s Manor and the road to the old Temple ruins , is no exception. The Forgotten Heart of Nulb This is no grand cathedral graveyard. The Nulb Graveyard is winds...
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Burne's Badgers: From Brigands to Heroes of Hommlet, DND Greyhawk for Temple of Elemental Evil campaign

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Greetings, Dungeon Masters! It’s 3orcs here, and today, I want to talk about a group of characters that can add both grit and heart to your Temple of Elemental Evil campaign: Burne's Badgers. These mercenaries turned defenders of the Village of Hommlet are a fascinating addition to any campaign set in the World of Greyhawk. They’re not just a powerful faction—they’re a storytelling goldmine for side quests, moral dilemmas, and NPC interactions.

 If you’re running the T1 Village of Hommlet module or planning to expand on the Temple of Elemental Evil, let’s dive into how Burne’s Badgers can enrich your game. Click here for the full Burnes Badgers article.

Who Are Burne's Badgers?

Once brigands roaming the outskirts of Hommlet, these rough-and-tumble mercenaries were given a choice by Lord Burne and Lord Rufus: face justice or reform. They chose redemption, and under the disciplined leadership of Burne and Rufus, they’ve become the village’s first line of defense against bandits, monsters, and any resurgence from the Temple of Elemental Evil.

Key Traits of Burne’s Badgers:

  • Loyal and disciplined: They’ve left their criminal ways behind and serve as steadfast protectors of Hommlet.
  • Well-equipped: Outfitted with sturdy armor and distinctive badger-emblazoned uniforms.
  • High morale: Their loyalty to Burne and Rufus keeps them focused and motivated.

Integrating Burne's Badgers into Your Campaign

Burne’s Badgers offer countless opportunities for side quests and dramatic moments. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:

1. Side Quests

  • Bandit Threat: The roads around Hommlet are plagued by bandits, and the Badgers need help securing vital trade routes. Perhaps the bandits are former allies of the Badgers, complicating the mission.
  • Sabotage at Doomwatch Keep: As the Badgers oversee the construction of Doomwatch Keep, a saboteur infiltrates their ranks. Can the players help uncover the spy before chaos erupts?
  • The Haunted Brigand’s Past: One of the Badgers struggles with the guilt of their criminal past. A mission to right their wrongs could turn into a harrowing adventure.

2. Moral Dilemmas

The Badgers aren’t perfect—they were brigands, after all. What happens if a former victim comes seeking revenge, or if one of the Badgers succumbs to old habits? These dilemmas can challenge your players’ moral compasses.

Key NPCs: Burne, Rufus, and the Badgers

Lord Burne

Known as the "Most Worshipful Mage of Hommlet," Burne is the brains behind the Badgers. He’s a powerful wizard with a strategic mind and a deep sense of duty. His focus on order and justice makes him a fascinating ally—or a stern adversary if the players cross him.

Lord Rufus

The tactical commander of the Badgers, Rufus is a warrior with a no-nonsense attitude. While Burne strategizes, Rufus leads from the front, inspiring his troops with his strength and charisma.

Notable Badgers

  • Markan of Narwell: A veteran mercenary and lieutenant under Burne’s command, Markan’s experience keeps the Badgers battle-ready.
  • Ferkis: A demi-elven sergeant known for his tactical brilliance, Ferkis ensures that the Badgers are a cohesive and deadly force.

How to Use Burne’s Badgers as a DM

As a Dungeon Master, you can use Burne’s Badgers to bring depth and dynamism to your game. Here are my candid tips:

  • Make them relatable: Highlight their struggles with redemption and loyalty. Players will appreciate the nuance of a group trying to leave their dark past behind.
  • Create complex dynamics: Show the relationship between Burne, Rufus, and the Badgers. Perhaps some Badgers idolize Rufus but view Burne as overly rigid—or vice versa.
  • Bring the village to life: Use the Badgers to reinforce Hommlet as a living, breathing community. Whether they’re training, patrolling, or drinking at the local tavern, their presence adds texture to the setting.

A Personal Note from 3orcs

When I first started running campaigns in the World of Greyhawk, Burne’s Badgers quickly became a favorite element. Their story of redemption and their connection to the Temple of Elemental Evil make them a rich addition to any campaign. Whether they’re allies, adversaries, or something in between, they’ll leave a lasting impression on your players.

 

Explore More with 3orcs

Want to bring even more depth to your Greyhawk campaign? Check out these resources:

Final Thoughts

Burne’s Badgers are more than just mercenaries—they’re a symbol of redemption and resilience in a world fraught with chaos. Whether they’re fighting bandits, defending Doomwatch Keep, or wrestling with their own pasts, the Badgers bring depth and excitement to your Temple of Elemental Evil campaign.

So, grab your dice, roll for initiative, and let’s make Greyhawk unforgettable—one mercenary at a time!

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