The Secret War Beneath the Hills: Temple Logistics at the Hunting Cottage

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  As Dungeon Masters building immersive worlds in Greyhawk, we often focus on the sprawling dungeons and cursed temples—but what makes a setting breathe are the living villages, the secret roads, and the nameless lieutenants that oil the gears of evil. With this latest update to the Verbobonc Campaign Guide 576 CY , the Hunting Cottage south of Nulb becomes more than just a footnote on a wilderness map—it becomes the nerve center of the Temple of Elemental Evil’s underground war effort. A Cabin Cloaked in Secrecy Located deep in the Kron Hills, buried beneath the dark canopy of the Gnarley Forest, this "innocent hunting lodge" masks the Temple’s most critical logistical node. Thanks to expanded lore and character development from recent articles, the cottage now connects the surface world to the Greater Temple’s lower levels through two secret tunnel entrances—one canon (a vertical shaft through a water well) and one newly developed (a limestone cave reinforced for priso...
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House Sarcina: Lady Kathryn Sarcina’s Role in Verbobonc’s Politics and Society in World of Greyhawk DND campaign

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When we delve into the intricate political tapestry of the Viscounty of Verbobonc, House Sarcina stands out as a shining example of resilience and influence. At its heart is Lady Kathryn Sarcina, a beacon of grace and intelligence, steering her noble lineage to prominence within the Council of Lords. For Dungeon Masters running the legendary T1 Village of Hommlet module in a Temple of Elemental Evil campaign, the addition of House Sarcina can bring rich political intrigue, immersive storytelling, and dynamic NPC interactions to the table.

A Legacy of Nobility and Influence

House Sarcina’s rise to prominence is deeply intertwined with Verbobonc’s history. Originating from Furyondian nobility, the Sarcina family leveraged economic booms to secure their position. Lady Kathryn Sarcina epitomizes this success with her unmatched political acumen and charm. Her tragic past—losing her husband and child—adds depth to her character, while her steadfast search for Horrus, the missing son of the Viscount, showcases her loyalty and hope. This devotion is a personal quest that DMs can weave into their campaign, offering adventurers side quests to aid Lady Kathryn in her search.

The Role of House Sarcina in the Council of Lords

House Sarcina wields considerable influence within the Council of Lords, acting as a bridge between the nobility and the people. Lady Kathryn’s popularity among the common folk strengthens her family’s reputation and political leverage. As a Dungeon Master, you can use this dynamic to introduce conflicts, alliances, and political intrigue. Perhaps rival noble houses, jealous of Lady Kathryn’s sway, conspire to undermine her position. Or adventurers may find themselves entangled in disputes between House Sarcina and Veluna’s nobles, who closely monitor her actions and potential alliances.

Enhancing Your Campaign with House Sarcina

Incorporating House Sarcina into your Temple of Elemental Evil campaign adds a layer of complexity and immersion. Here are a few ideas to bring them to life:

  1. Political Side Quests: Task your players with investigating rivals’ plots against Lady Kathryn or uncovering secrets about her past.
  2. Economic Ties: House Sarcina’s holdings in Verbobonc provide adventurers access to rare resources, from specialized equipment to unique trade opportunities.
  3. Personal Connections: Lady Kathryn’s charm and intelligence make her a fascinating NPC for roleplaying, offering adventurers guidance, alliances, or mentorship.


To explore Lady Kathryn’s story further and discover how to integrate her into your campaign, check out the Verbobonc Campaign Guide 576cy on the 3orcs website. You’ll find detailed articles, stunning artwork, and supplemental content to elevate your campaign. For deeper discussions, visit the 3orcs YouTube channel, where I dive into the lore and intricacies of the World of Greyhawk.

With House Sarcina and Lady Kathryn as pivotal figures in your campaign, your players will experience the depth and complexity that make Temple of Elemental Evil a timeless classic. 

Additional Resources

3orcs
Bringing traditional Dungeons & Dragons back to life, one story at a time.

 

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