🎲 Random Map Encounter: “Cursed Hollow Crossing”

By Charlie Stayton, Behind the Die

Map Theme: Foggy woodland ravine with a broken rope bridge over a shallow chasm

Suggested Map Size: 30x30 squares (each 5 feet)
Grid Type: Standard 5-ft squares
Terrain Features:

• A 20-foot-deep ravine cuts through the center of the map (10-ft wide)

• A collapsed rope bridge spans 15 feet of the ravine, now just loose dangling ropes and planks

• Two elevated ridge paths (on east and west sides), 10 feet above the ground below

• Fog lightly obscures distant vision (creatures >30 ft away are lightly obscured)

• Gnarled trees (half cover), patches of spiked brambles (difficult terrain)

• A toppled wagon lies near the bridge (half cover, investigation spot)

🧟 Encounter Type: Ambush / Trap / Tactical Terrain

Scenario Hook:

While traveling through the woods, the adventurers reach a ravine just as thick mist begins to roll in. As they scout the broken bridge, something stirs in the fog. They’re not alone.

👹 Enemies (CR-balanced for 4–5 characters, level 5 average):

Standard Composition (Adjustable):

• 1x Foggrasp Wraith (custom monster; see below) – the unseen menace

• 4x Thornspawn Scouts (reskinned Goblins with thorny lash and camouflage)

• 1x Needle Blight Alpha (buffed version of a Needle Blight; commands terrain)

Optional Add-ons for higher level groups

+2x Shadow Mastiffs (using fog for advantage)

+1x Ogre Zombie dragged from the ravine below