Discover Grim Tidings: Rose Red, a captivating D&D 5e adventure module blending gothic fairy tale whimsy with Ravenloft horror. This 93-page PDF is scalable for parties of any tier (levels 1–20), with adjustable DCs and encounters perfect for introducing the Domains of Dread or standalone Ravenloft mysteries.
No word has come from the idyllic village of Arvex, a serene lakeside haven where perfection reigns—yet dark secrets lurk beneath its storybook facade. As the mists of Ravenloft envelop the town, visitors find themselves trapped in a cycle of eternal summer days and perilous nights. Unravel the enigma of a sorrowful young girl splintered by trauma, a rampaging bear in the woods, a slumbering beauty in the mayor’s manor, and a sorceress who commands the shadows. Through skillful social interactions, investigative prowess, and tactical combat, your players must confront the fractured psyche at the heart of Arvex to free its inhabitants—or risk eternal entrapment.
This module emphasizes narrative depth with a focus on mystery-solving via NPC dialogues, while offering ample opportunities for nighttime battles against Ravenloft horrors. Content warning: The antagonist depicts Dissociative Identity Disorder; discretion is advised for sensitive groups.
Key Features:
• Scalable Design: Base DCs adjust by chapter (12–15), with guidelines for tailoring challenges to party strength. Milestone-based progression rewards story achievements over grind (XP also available)
• Rich Exploration: Detailed locations across Arvex, including daytime serenity and nocturnal terror, with maps for key sites (village overview, monster lairs, player Bastion, and antagonist compound).
• Engaging Encounters: Social puzzles, optional side quests, and dynamic combat, including special Fear and Horror tests for immersive dread.
• New Content: Custom magic items, adapted Ravenloft creatures with combat cards, and hooks for further adventuring in Arvex, Ravenloft, Eberron, or your custom world.
• Multiple Endings: Resolve the tale through cunning (reuniting a family) or confrontation (battling the Dreadlady), with conclusive rewards and epilogue threads.
• References: Dungeon Master’s Guide (2024), Monster Manual (2024), and Van Richten’s Guide to Ravenloft.
Estimated playtime: 4–8 sessions, depending on exploration depth.
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Details
- Publication Date
- Mar 23, 2026
- Language
- English
- Category
- Games
- Copyright
- All Rights Reserved - Standard Copyright License
- Contributors
- By (author): D.L. Armstrong
Specifications
- Pages
- 91
- Binding Type
- Paperback Perfect Bound
- Interior Color
- Color
- Dimensions
- US Letter (8.5 x 11 in / 216 x 279 mm)