Cragmaw Castle

Cragmaw Castle

Cragmaw Castle is an ancient, partially ruined fortress located in the wilderness northeast of Phandalin. During the events of the Lost Mine of Phandelver arc, it served as the stronghold of the Cragmaw goblin tribe and their bugbear leader, King Grol.

Overview

Once a proud keep of human nobles, Cragmaw Castle fell into ruin over the centuries. The Cragmaw goblins claimed the ruins as their own, using its remaining defensible structures as their primary base of operations. Despite its decrepit state, the castle's stone walls and strategic location made it an formidable stronghold.

The castle was under the influence of Nezznar the Black Spider, who used King Grol and his Cragmaw tribe as pawns in his plot to locate and control Wave Echo Cave.

History

Cragmaw Castle was built generations ago by human nobles as a fortress to protect their lands. Over time, as the region changed and the original owners died out or abandoned the area, the castle fell into disrepair. The Cragmaw tribe discovered the ruins and claimed them, driving out any remaining occupants and establishing their largest settlement there.

Layout

The castle consists of several key areas:

• Main Keep: The most intact portion of the castle, where King Grol held court
• Towers: Partially collapsed but still used for lookouts
• Courtyard: Open area where goblins gathered
• Dungeons: Underground chambers where prisoners were kept
• Outer Walls: Crumbling stone fortifications

Notable Inhabitants

• King Grol: The bugbear chieftain of the Cragmaw tribe, who controlled the castle
• Cragmaw Goblins: Dozens of goblins who served as warriors and guards
• Prisoners: Including Gundren Rockseeker, who was held captive here

Campaign Events

The party learned of Cragmaw Castle's location during their investigations in Session 3. They mounted a rescue mission to free Gundren Rockseeker, who had been kidnapped by the Cragmaw tribe on Nezznar's orders.

In Session 4, the party assaulted the castle, fighting their way through goblin defenders and ultimately confronting King Grol. They succeeded in rescuing Gundren and dealt a severe blow to the Cragmaw tribe's power in the region.

Appearances

• Session 03 – Welcome to Phandalin
• Session 04 – Fire and Faith at Cragmaw Castle
• Session 05 – The Black Spider's Shadow – Final assault and rescue of Gundren Rockseeker
• Session 06 – Shadows and Allegiances