Post/Author/DateTime	Post
#1 BorisEnichov Sep 21, 2014 11:18:58	Hey folks,   I've been running a 4e campaign based out of Hammerfast (link here). The setting is important because we are transitioning to 5e, and also we will be starting Hoard of the Dragon Queen.   Hammerfast is kind of cool because the living and dead co-habitate (and Orcs and Dwarves also!).  In my opinion, it makes an especially juicy target for the cult of the Dragon, as there are tombs still unopened and unexplored, and probably lots of gold and magic items to collect in preparation for Tiamat.   The party has been underground in a classic dungeon crawl for (in game time) 3 months. I'm planning on drawing them back up to the surface and  creating a massive assault scene (theater of the mind) on Hammerfast. Basically, when they get into Hammerfast, it will be under a full, active assault (like Greenest in the start of Hoard of the Dragon Queen).   But considering the amount of undead in Hammerfast, and the past history of the Cult, would it be appropriate to have a bad-ass litch or dragon litch leading the charge? Do you think a normal ancient blue dragon would be part of the attack, or would something about the strong undead presence in Hammerfast draw in a different kind of "tier-one" monster.   I am curious to hear your thoughts, and what you think would make sense.
#2 tallric_kruush Sep 21, 2014 11:38:59	I don't think Hammerfast's spirits would have any influence upon the make-up of the invading force, aside from the fact that no dwarves or orcs would be likely to aid the cult. The blue dragon included in the adventure should work fine.   Finally surfacing into a scene of battle and slaughter should make for a cool scene. Good luck with the next step in your campaign.
#3 DM_HEEGZ Sep 21, 2014 16:12:27	You could use a blue dragon lich, as the attack is mostly fluff, and if it hits a PC it is game over anyways.
#4 THEMNGMNT Sep 21, 2014 17:41:10	I love this idea. Hammerfast is a fun location and makes much more sense as a target than a place like Greenest. It makes little sense that the Cult is trying to acquire a hoard for Tiamat yet nowhere in Chapter 1 do the players actually see the Cult attempt to steal anything valuable. One of many problems with HotDQ, frankly. It could be easily fixed, too. Imagine the Cult stealing an artifact that the town relies upon for survival. Maybe it's a golden chalice that guarantees a rich crop yield. Maybe a holy shroud that keeps away cold winters. Maybe a bejeweled altar that quiets the spirits of the dead from a nearby battlefield. You get the idea. In any case, customize as you see fit. I think you're on the right track. Follow your instincts.