The Earth Prophet
The Temple of Elemental Evil is one of the most iconic Dungeons & Dragons campaigns, steeped in intrigue, villainy, and ancient evils lurking beneath the surface. As Dungeon Masters (DMs) dive into the depths of this legendary adventure, understanding key NPCs such as Romag, the High Priest of the Earth Temple, becomes crucial to weaving a compelling narrative.
Romag, the so-called Prophet of Earth, is a complex antagonist—calculating, pragmatic, and driven by a thirst for revenge. His faction may lack the explosive power of Fire or the insidious reach of Water, but through fortification and patience, Romag holds his position within the Cult of the Elder Elemental God.
Who is Romag?
Romag leads the Cult of the Black Earth within the Temple of Elemental Evil, inheriting his position from his predecessor, Barkinar. Despite lacking charisma and ambition, Romag’s strength lies in his strategic focus on defense, fortifications, and securing control over Nulb’s seedy underbelly through his key ally, Dick Rentsch, the innkeeper of the Waterside Hostel.
Physically, Romag is a stout, imposing figure, his expression always cold and calculating. He wears earth-toned robes adorned with sigils of the Black Earth, a reflection of his enduring connection to the temple’s power. His stone-etched warhammer, imbued with elemental magic, serves as both a weapon and a symbol of his authority.
Personality and Motivations
Romag is pragmatic to a fault. Unlike the fiery ambition of his rivals, he prioritizes stability and order. He has little interest in expanding the Earth Temple's influence beyond its current holdings and instead focuses on cementing his position within the Temple’s hierarchy. His greatest weakness, however, is his lack of political cunning, which has allowed figures like Lady Nysera Krivaltis, the self-styled “Baroness of Nulb,” to challenge his influence.
Key Motivations:
- Retain his position by reinforcing the Temple’s fortifications.
- Eliminate rivals such as Belsornig of the Water Temple.
- Avenge past betrayals, particularly against Senshock, a former ally who betrayed him years ago.
Romag's Political Influence and Relationships
The Greater Temple and the Elemental Factions
Despite his efforts, Romag is seen as the weakest of the elemental factions. The Fire Temple’s Alrrem views him as overly cautious, while Belsornig of the Water Temple seeks to manipulate him. Romag plays the long game, reinforcing his position through information networks and alliances.
Nulb and Local Politics
In the village of Nulb, Romag’s influence is vast but precarious. He relies on Dick Rentsch, owner of the Waterside Hostel, to gather intelligence and recruit new followers. However, Lady Nysera Krivaltis poses a direct threat to his authority, seeking to unite Nulb under her own control. Romag’s enforcers often clash with Nysera’s militia, leading to a simmering power struggle in the region.
Key Allies:
- Dick Rentsch: A loyal informant who secretly seeks his own power.
- Dala: A cunning manipulator with ties to both Romag and the Water Temple.
- Lakash Quallad: Nysera’s brother, an agent of the Temple who may serve as an unexpected ally—or a dangerous rival.
Rivals and Threats:
- Lady Nysera Krivaltis: A formidable political rival in Nulb.
- Senshock: A high-ranking wizard within the Greater Temple who betrayed Romag in the past.
- Belsornig (Water Temple): A manipulative rival seeking to weaken Romag’s influence.
Adventure Hooks Involving Romag
As a DM, Romag provides ample opportunities to add tension and intrigue to the Temple of Elemental Evil campaign. Whether your players are new to the World of Greyhawk or seasoned adventurers, Romag’s schemes and ambitions offer numerous side quests and story beats.
Possible Encounters
- Spies in Nulb: The players are hired by a local merchant to uncover a smuggling ring, only to find Romag’s agents behind it.
- The Earth Temple's Last Stand: Romag reinforces his temple, setting up a deadly siege where players must overcome layers of traps and stone guardians.
- A Meeting with Romag: Dick Rentsch arranges a secret meeting where Romag offers the players a deal—aid him in eliminating his rivals, or face the Temple’s wrath.
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Earth Temple Scout
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Romag’s Assets and Treasures
Romag hoards valuable artifacts and knowledge, including items that can be introduced as rewards or plot points in the campaign. Some notable treasures include:
- Romag's Vestments: Embroidered with ancient elemental sigils, offering protective magic.
- Stone-etched Warhammer: Imbued with earth elemental power, allowing the wielder to manipulate stone.
- Scroll of Animate Dead: A key item Romag uses to bolster his forces.
Bringing Romag to Life at Your Table
When portraying Romag, emphasize his calculating nature and patient approach. Unlike the fiery brashness of the Fire Temple or the seductive manipulations of the Water Temple, Romag speaks in measured tones, always weighing his words carefully. He sees the adventurers as either pawns or threats—and he’s always prepared to adjust his strategy based on their actions.
Sample Dialogue:
"You think yourself above the earth, but in the end, all fall and return to the soil. The Black Earth waits for none."
Conclusion
Romag is a fascinating character that brings depth and complexity to the Temple of Elemental Evil campaign. His ties to Nulb, his cautious yet deadly nature, and his ultimate goal of revenge and power make him a formidable antagonist for any D&D party.
If you’re looking to bring the world of Greyhawk to life, dive deeper into the Verbobonc Campaign Guide 576cy available on the 3orcs website, and watch detailed breakdowns of characters like Romag on the 3orcs YouTube channel.
Additional Resources
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