Scarcity - Hodgepocalypse Toronto - Part 10 - The Cheltenham Badlands, Parks, Yonge Street and Other Locations

 The Cheltenham Badlands: Cradle of Fossilborn Legacy

The Cheltenham Badlands have transformed into a strikingly alien landscape in the Hodgepocalypse, a vivid sea of crimson and ochre clay hills that stretch far beyond their original bounds. The terrain is a volatile blend of geological upheaval and arcane energies, making it both awe-inspiring and dangerous. This region is sacred to the Fossilborn, who revere it as a cradle of their primal power and the heart of their cultural and spiritual practices.

Key Locations

Caledon Trailway

The Caledon Trailway is a scenic yet perilous route that meanders through the breathtaking landscape of the Cheltenham Badlands, linking lush woodlands and bustling settlements to the arid expanse of the Badlands. While the trail offers stunning views of crimson hills and vibrant flora, it also conceals lurking threats—ranging from ruthless raiders to formidable wildlife eager to protect their territory. Travelers must tread carefully, for the beauty of the landscape can quickly turn into a deadly trap.

Plot Hook: When a caravan transporting rare supplies for the Fossilborn falls victim to an ambush along the Caledon Trailway, precious resources that could aid the community are at risk of being lost forever. The players must rally their courage and skills to track the culprits through the winding paths of the Trailway, navigating both the treacherous terrain and the impending danger posed by hostile forces, all while racing against time to recover the stolen goods before they vanish into the wilderness.

Caledon Village

 

Nestled at the edge of the Cheltenham Badlands, Caledon Village stands as a testament to resilience and adaptability, showcasing a blend of historic architecture and rustic charm. Cobblestone paths wind through the village, flanked by quaint houses adorned with colorful gardens, offering a stark contrast to the arid and tumultuous landscape just beyond its borders. Once a sleepy settlement, it has now blossomed into a bustling outpost, serving as a crucial neutral ground where traders, Fossilborn, and scavengers converge. Here, bartering and storytelling flourish, as diverse groups seek to exchange goods and share news under the watchful gaze of the village's iconic clock tower, a relic of a bygone era.

Plot Hook: Whispers of a powerful artifact from the pre-apocalypse era hidden within Caledon Village have set the stage for an escalating conflict among various factions, each eager to claim the potential power within. As the inhabitants watch tensions rise, the players must navigate the intricate web of alliances and rivalries that form in the village, discerning friend from foe while racing to uncover the artifact’s location before its secrets are exploited. With each faction willing to go to great lengths to secure the prize, the players will find themselves caught in a brewing storm of greed, ambition, and desperation, where the stakes could alter the delicate balance of power in the region.

Cheltenham Badlands (The Red Cradle)

 

The Cheltenham Badlands, known as the Red Cradle, is an expansive and eerie landscape of barren clay hills striped in striking red and grey, where faint pulses of light from the soil hint at the arcane forces that dwell below. Home to the resilient Fossilborn tribes and enigmatic Bone-Oracles, this desolate expanse serves as both a sanctuary and a battleground for those seeking power and insights hidden within its depths.

Plot Hook: The players are tasked with recovering an ancient artifact buried within the Badlands, a relic imbued with powerful magic that could change the fate of the region. To succeed, they must face the fervent devotion of Fossilborn zealots and overcome the land's formidable, mystical defenses that protect its secrets.

Egg-Keeps

 

The Egg-Keeps are intricate underground sanctuaries woven into the very fabric of the Cheltenham Badlands, meticulously carved into the soft clay hills to resemble ancient nests. These striking structures provide shelter for the Fossilborn, serving as sacred spaces for rituals, hatching rites, and communal gatherings. Each Egg-Keep is adorned with unique carvings and vibrant murals that tell the stories of ancestral spirits and the tribe's history, creating a sense of connection to the past and the earth itself. Functioning not only as places of reverence but also as fortresses, Egg-Keeps are fortified against potential intruders, with winding tunnels and hidden chambers designed to confuse and deter those who may threaten the sanctity of these sacred spaces.

Plot Hook: When news spreads that a rival faction plans to desecrate a prominent Egg-Keep to undermine the Fossilborn's spiritual power, the players are called upon to protect this vital sanctuary. However, as they delve into this conflict, they must decide whether to uphold their duty and safeguard the Egg-Keep or leverage the chaos to further their own ambitions, potentially exploiting the turmoil for personal gain. In a land where loyalties are tested and allegiances shift like the very soil beneath their feet, the players face a moral quandary that could reshape the balance of power in the Badlands.

Forks of the Credit Provincial Park

 

Forks of the Credit Provincial Park has transformed into a hotly contested zone where the tranquil beauty of nature stands in stark contrast to the fierce struggles for control of its abundant resources. Renowned for its spectacular waterfalls, winding river systems, and hidden caves, the park serves as a vital sacred space for the Fossilborn, who conduct age-old rituals that honor their ancestral spirits and the energies of the land. However, the allure of the park’s natural wealth has attracted various rival factions seeking to exploit its resources, leading to a volatile standoff that threatens the sanctity and cultural heritage embedded within its majestic landscapes. The park's waterfalls cascade into shimmering pools, while the shadowy recesses of its caves whisper secrets of ancient power waiting to be uncovered.

Plot Hook: The players find themselves thrust into a brewing conflict over a sacred Fossilborn cave that is rumored to hold a powerful relic capable of bending the wills of both men and nature. With tensions rising among rival factions eager to claim the cave for their own, the players must navigate a treacherous web of alliances and betrayals, deciding whether to aid the Fossilborn in preserving their sacred space or seize the opportunity to obtain the relic for themselves. As they delve deeper into the mysteries of the park, their choices could shift the balance of power and reshape the future of both the Fossilborn and the factions vying for domination.

Gus Harris Park

 

Gus Harris Park may be small, but it serves as a vital cornerstone for the surrounding community, offering a respite from the chaos that envelops the region. With its cozy walking paths, well-tended gardens, and shade-giving trees, the park hosts families enjoying picnics, children playing games, and small factions engaging in quiet discussions or trading. It stands as a symbol of fragile normalcy, where the sounds of laughter and conversation punctuate the air, creating a brief sanctuary from the tensions of the world outside. Although the park is a place of solace and community, it also bears witness to the underlying strains between various groups, all vying for stability in uncertain times.

Plot Hook: The tranquility of Gus Harris Park is disrupted when a Fossilborn envoy arrives, seeking to establish a diplomatic dialogue with the local community. Tensions quickly rise as differing opinions on the Fossilborn’s intentions emerge, with some locals expressing fear and distrust, while others see potential for cooperation. Caught in the middle of this brewing conflict, the players must work to uncover the true motives of the envoy and facilitate a resolution that honors both the needs of the Fossilborn and the concerns of the locals. As they navigate the delicate landscape of emotions and alliances, the players will find that their choices could either foster understanding or drive a wedge deeper between the two cultures, with consequences rippling throughout the community.

Palgrave Forest and Wildlife Area

 

The Forest of Forgotten Echoes is a lush and dense woodland that borders the harsh and arid landscape of the Cheltenham Badlands. Here, nature has prevailed over the remnants of a once-thriving civilization, with ancient trees twisting around the crumbling structures of pre-apocalyptic scientific outposts, their walls entwined with creeping vines and flowering plants. This verdant sanctuary is both beautiful and eerie, as it conceals not only the signs of humanity’s past but also magical anomalies that pulse with strange energies. Glimmers of light can be seen darting through the foliage, and whispers from the breeze hint at the mysteries lurking within, creating an atmosphere charged with both awe and trepidation.

Plot Hook: When a Fossilborn scout goes missing after venturing too deeply into the enigmatic forest, the local tribes fear that he has uncovered something dangerous. The players are tasked with locating the lost scout, unraveling the mystery of his disappearance, and uncovering the secrets he may have stumbled upon. As they navigate the overgrown paths of the forest, they will face challenges posed by hidden magical anomalies, territorial wildlife, and the remnants of forgotten technology, all while racing against time to find the scout before whatever he uncovered unleashes chaos upon the surrounding lands. In their quest, the players will uncover not only the fate of the scout but also a deeper truth about the forest and its intertwined connection to both nature and magic.

Inglewood (Boneforge Camp)

 

Inglewood, known as the Boneforge Camp, is a bustling small community nestled at the edge of the Cheltenham Badlands, where the art of bonecrafting has taken center stage. Once a simple settlement, it has been transformed by the arrival of skilled Fossilborn artisans who utilize bones and scavenged materials to create intricate weapons and tools imbued with cultural significance and arcane power. The air is rich with the sounds of hammers striking anvils and the acrid scent of burning materials, as artisans demonstrate their craft in the forges that dot the camp. This unique blend of artistry and functionality makes the Boneforge Camp a strategic outpost, offering essential supplies and weaponry to the neighboring tribes while also serving as a hub for trade and diplomacy.

Plot Hook: As tensions rise in the region, a master Fossilborn smith named Kaelan is on the verge of completing a legendary weapon said to channel the fierce spirit of the land itself. News of the weapon's creation spreads like wildfire, attracting the attention of rival factions eager to seize it for their own purposes. Players are drawn into the conflict as they must navigate a precarious landscape of shifting alliances and brewing hostilities. Tasked with protecting Kaelan and the Boneforge Camp from those who would threaten its existence, they must forge their own strategies amidst the chaos,

Parks

Allan Gardens Conservatory

 

A shattered glass dome shelters a chaotic jungle of mutated, carnivorous plants that fiercely guard the overgrown remains of Allan Gardens Conservatory. Revered by the Fossilborn as sacred ground, the site is said to be built atop a powerful ley line. This enigmatic faction conducts rituals blending druidic traditions with fossilized relics, seeking to harness the land's ancient energy. Rumors speak of The Verdant Maw, a semi-sentient plant guardian tied to the ley line, emerging during their most potent ceremonies. The conservatory is both a place of wonder and danger, its power coveted by those who see it as a key to reshaping the world.

Plot Hook: A grand Fossilborn ceremony is interrupted by mercenaries attempting to seize control of the ley line. As chaos erupts and The Verdant Maw awakens, the players must choose their allies—or exploit the turmoil to claim the power for themselves.

Edwards Gardens

 

What was once a tranquil botanical garden is now a predatory wilderness, infamous as the hunting ground of Hunter Rose—a sentient, carnivorous plant said to command the flora of the gardens. Vines coil like traps, flowers exhale hallucinogenic spores, and tree-like creatures stalk intruders with unsettling cunning. The garden's streams shimmer with an iridescent liquid believed to possess strange alchemical and mutative properties, but drawing too close to collect it risks awakening the wrath of Hunter Rose and its verdant assassins. Despite the danger, the promise of power and mystery lures scavengers and scholars alike into this verdant deathtrap.

Plot Hook: A desperate alchemist hires the players to retrieve a sample of the iridescent liquid, claiming it holds the key to curing a growing plague. To succeed, the party must navigate the deadly terrain, outwit the sapient flora, and contend with a rival faction that seeks to weaponize the garden’s dark bounty.

Ernest Thompson Park

 

Nestled along the waterfront, Ernest Thompson Park has transformed into a bustling haven for waterborne travelers and shoreline scavengers. The park’s centerpiece, a once-ornamental fountain, has been retrofitted into a vital purification system, providing clean water to the ramshackle shantytown surrounding it. Constructed from driftwood, scavenged metal, and other salvaged materials, the settlement reflects the resilience and ingenuity of its inhabitants. Yet the park is not without peril: rival groups covet its resources, and the waters teem with mutated aquatic predators that threaten the precarious balance of life along the shore. Rumors swirl of deeper secrets hidden within the park’s overgrown trails, suggesting that its importance may go far beyond mere survival.

Plot Hook: The fountain abruptly stops flowing, plunging the settlement into chaos. As the players investigate the cause, they uncover evidence of sabotage and a deeper conspiracy involving a faction that seeks to control the region’s dwindling water supply—or destroy it altogether.

Taylor Creek Park

 

Once a tranquil retreat for urban nature enthusiasts, Taylor Creek Park has transformed into a sprawling stretch of untamed wilderness in the Hodgepocalypse. The dense woods and winding creek form a natural maze, sheltering a tight-knit community of survivors who have forsaken city life. These "Creekwalkers" are fiercely protective of their domain, living off the land and weaving myths about the creek’s supernatural properties. The water is said to possess potent healing capabilities, capable of mending broken bones and curing ailments. However, those who drink it sometimes experience unpredictable side effects: heightened senses, strange visions, or even physical mutations. The park's eerie stillness is punctuated by whispers of something ancient stirring within its depths, a presence that seems connected to the creek’s powers.

Plot Hook: A nearby settlement is ravaged by a mysterious ailment, and its leaders offer a significant reward for samples of the creek’s water. The players must navigate the Creekwalkers' suspicion, the park’s natural hazards, and the water’s strange properties to retrieve it. Along the way, they may uncover the source of the creek's power—and whether its gift is worth its cost.

The Ungo Tribes (Park Guardians)

 

The Ungo Tribes, Sasquatch-like guardians of the Parks, fiercely protect its untamed beauty and the ley lines and magical ruins hidden within. Isolationist yet noble, they view themselves as stewards of the park’s mystical energies, ensuring its power is neither exploited nor corrupted. Despite their reclusive nature, the Ungos occasionally offer sanctuary to those fleeing the chaos of city life, making their domain both a haven and a forbidden frontier for those daring to seek its secrets.

Plot Hook: When a rival faction begins tampering with the ley lines in High Park, the Ungos reluctantly seek outside help to prevent a catastrophe that could destabilize the entire region.

Wilket Creek Park

 

Once a serene trail system, Wilket Creek Park is now a bustling nexus of post-apocalyptic commerce and danger. Nomadic traders have claimed the park's trails, setting up temporary stalls and ramshackle markets where anything from scavenged tech to mysterious artifacts is bartered. The park’s iconic bridges and shaded paths now echo with the clatter of wagons and the guarded voices of opportunistic wanderers. Beneath the surface, a network of hidden caves provides shelter for weary travelers, though they’re just as likely to house ambushes or stashes of contraband. The park’s most infamous hazard, however, is its unstable ground—sudden sinkholes frequently appear, swallowing pathways and exposing long-forgotten tunnels, cryptic machinery, or buried secrets. Stories abound of treasure troves revealed by these collapses, drawing scavengers and fortune hunters who must contend with rival factions and the ever-present risk of collapse.

Plot Hook: A massive sinkhole has opened up, exposing an underground vault filled with valuable supplies and possibly pre-apocalypse relics. Rival scavenger gangs have converged on the park, each vying for control of the newfound treasure. Players can choose to claim the cache for themselves, broker peace among the factions to prevent bloodshed, or investigate the tunnels for clues about the cache's origins—and the reason it was buried so deeply.

Yonge Street

Yonge Street, once the vibrant backbone of Toronto, is now a crumbling artery in the post-apocalyptic landscape. It stretches through the Midtown Ruins, connecting shattered neighborhoods and faction-controlled territories. The street is alive with scavengers, desperate survivors, and imposing enforcers, making it a treacherous pathway. Despite the chaos, Yonge Street remains a vital route for trade, information, and conflict, where every block tells a story of resilience or ruin.

The Cyclops Gangs dominate this stretch, enforcing their own brand of biker-style lawlessness. They see themselves as kings of the road, ruling through a mix of charm, menace, and old-school grit. Adorned in leather and chrome, they embody a bygone era of rebellion, their aesthetic inspired by 1950s greaser culture. Their base is a fortress of twisted metal and roaring engines, a testament to their iron grip on the area.

Plot Hook: A caravan of traders has been ambushed on Yonge Street, with whispers that the Cyclops Gangs were behind it. However, the gang vehemently denies involvement, claiming a splinter group or rival faction is framing them. The players are hired to investigate, uncovering clues that hint at a deeper conspiracy—one that could destabilize the delicate balance of power along Yonge Street. Are the Cyclops Gangs victims of manipulation, or are they playing a more cunning game?

Key Locations

Greaser Alley

 

Tucked away in the shadowed remnants of the city, Greaser Alley is a haven for the loud and lawless. Once a service lane for Yonge Street’s bustling nightlife, it has transformed into the Cyclops Gangs’ domain—a neon-lit strip where roaring engines and clashing fists dictate respect. The alley’s graffiti murals, pulsating with rebellious energy, serve as a chronicle of the gang’s victories, losses, and legends. At its heart lies a quarter-mile drag strip, lit by salvaged headlights, where rivalries are settled at breakneck speed. A “pit of honor” hosts brutal brawls, ensuring disputes end in sweat and blood. Hidden among the chaos, an underground black market thrives, dealing in outlawed goods, jury-rigged weapons, and whispered secrets.

Plot Hook: A mysterious racer arrives, challenging the Cyclops Gangs' champion to a drag race with impossibly high stakes—ownership of the alley itself. The gang suspects foul play, and players must investigate whether this enigmatic challenger is a rival agent, an operative with ulterior motives, or something far more dangerous.

Midtown Echo

 

Once a bustling hub of cinematic marvels, the Cineplex Cinemas Yonge-Eglinton has been transformed into "The Midtown Echo," an iconic yet eerie community space controlled by the Cyclops Gangs. This abandoned theater is a testament to the gang’s larger-than-life persona, where they host movie nights of classic biker films, hold gang trials on a makeshift stage, and conduct recruitment rallies under the flickering light of vintage projectors. Rows of dilapidated theater seats now serve as makeshift meeting spots, while the walls are adorned with posters of legendary films and old gang members, with a film archive dedicated to immortalizing their tales of rebellion and triumph.

Plot Hook: When whispers of a secret film reel emerge, claiming to depict the Cyclops Gangs' founder making a deal with a shadowy figure, the gang's reputation hangs in the balance. Desperate to retrieve the incriminating footage, the players find themselves entangled in a dangerous game, caught between rival factions eager to exploit the footage for their own gain.

The Rust Haven Garage

  

Once a standard auto repair shop known as Four Star Automotive Certigard, Rust Haven Garage has now evolved into the heart of the Cyclops Gangs' operations. With its walls reinforced by scavenged steel and adorned with graffiti that tells stories of rebellion, this stronghold buzzes with the frantic energy of gang members who repair their customized motorcycles, prepare weapons, and engage in boisterous meetings. A towering scrap-metal sculpture of a Cyclops, complete with a menacing single glowing eye, stands sentinel at the entrance, symbolizing both the gang's power and the dangers of crossing them.

Plot Hook: Chaos ensues when a daring thief absconds with the Cyclops Gangs’ most treasured possession—a rare pre-apocalypse motorcycle that belonged to their legendary founder, enshrined in gang lore. The gang offers a heavy reward for its safe return, and players must navigate a treacherous web of loyalties and rivalries, for the very act of betrayal could lead to bloodshed if they choose to play both sides.

Other Locations

Brickhaven Discovery Center

 

Located in Vaughan, just outside Toronto proper, Once a whimsical attraction for families, the center is now a labyrinthine fortress constructed from towering sculptures of colorful interlocking bricks. The survivors have fortified it with scrap metal and other salvaged materials, giving it an absurd but surprisingly effective defense system. The residents, known as "Brickwrights," are engineers and artisans who have mastered building modular traps, barricades, and even crude vehicles from the center’s remaining supplies. Despite its playful exterior, the structure hides dark secrets in its lower levels, where an experimental AI used to design new toys has gone rogue, reshaping parts of the facility into a surreal, deadly maze.

Plot Hook: The Brickwrights seek outside help after several of their own vanish in the depths of Brickhaven’s restricted zones. The players are tasked with exploring the dangerous lower levels, but the rogue AI may have plans of its own, viewing the party as pieces to add to its ever-expanding “masterpiece.”

Gravenhurst, Ontario

 

Located in the heart of Ontario’s Muskoka region, approximately 170 kilometers north of Toronto, Gravenhurst was once a serene lakeside town known for its historic steamships and connection to nature. In the post-apocalypse, it has become a chilling domain of memory and mourning. The town is now called the City of Graves, where an eerie, perpetual mist shrouds the landscape. Locals believe the mist emanates from the ruins of an ancient mausoleum uncovered during the Hodgepocalypse, which is said to house a gateway to the afterlife. Gravenhurst has drawn necromancers, mystics, and grief-stricken travelers seeking closure—or forbidden power. Its lakes reflect not just the sky but flickering visions of the dead, and the town’s marketplace trades in relics from the other side.

Plot Hook: An artifact dealer hires the players to retrieve a prized relic from the Gravenhurst mausoleum, promising riches beyond imagining. However, the artifact is guarded by restless spirits who remember their mortal lives—and hold a grudge against the living.

Lakeshore Psychiatric Hospital

 

The Asylum of Haunting Whispers stands as a ghostly remnant of the former Lakeshore Psychiatric Hospital in New Toronto, now transformed by the chaotic energies of the Hodgepocalypse into a haunting repository of lost souls and spectral remnants. Its crumbling Whispering Cottages echo the sorrowful tales of former patients, while the ominous Reflection Pool serves as a portal to their memories, offering adventurers glimpses into the tragic past of the asylum. The Haunted Assembly Hall, once a space for recreation, now hosts eerie gatherings of spirits seeking closure, creating an atmosphere thick with tension. Inhabitants include spectral beings—some benevolent and others malevolent—alongside a sect of spiritualists aiming to harness their power, leading to quests that challenge adventurers to uncover the asylum's dark history, assist troubled spirits, and confront the malevolent forces eager to exploit its tragic legacy.

Stratford, Ontario

 

Located roughly 150 kilometers west of Toronto, Stratford was once a picturesque town renowned for its annual Shakespearean Festival and thriving theater scene. In the wake of the apocalypse, the Stratford Festival transformed into something far darker: a haven for the Infernal Thespian Society, a theater troupe marked by their lineage from the Desecrators, techno-demons who thrive on storytelling and spectacle. The town’s iconic theaters now serve as grand arenas for elaborate performances blending dark magic, high-tech illusions, and twisted interpretations of classic plays. Audience members are said to leave changed—some enlightened, others maddened. Stratford has become a cultural crossroads, attracting wanderers, scholars, and the curious, but its demonic allure hides an agenda to rewrite humanity’s collective story into a tale of despair and domination.

Plot Hook. The Infernal Thespian Society announces a once-in-a-generation production, claiming it will unveil the “truth of existence.” The players are tasked with infiltrating the troupe to discover the show’s purpose, only to find themselves cast in leading roles that could alter the course of history—if they survive opening night.

  #drevrpg #hodgepocalypse #dnd5e #dungeonsanddragons #apocalypse #toronto #ontario #canada

Scarcity - Hodgepocalypse Toronto - Part 9 - North and Eastern Toronto & Humber Valley

Rosedale, Forest Hill, and North Toronto: 

Bastions of Hidden Power

This region of Toronto remains a fractured mosaic of affluence and overgrowth, where old wealth meets the encroaching wilderness. Gated estates and grand mansions crumble beneath vines and moss, while fortified compounds guard advanced relics from the pre-apocalypse world. The Mechanical Life Forms (M.L.F.) maintain a tenuous grip on this area, their compounds fortified against intruders and rival factions. Meanwhile, hidden sanctuaries of art and history survive amid the chaos, attracting wanderers seeking knowledge or refuge.

Black Creek Pioneer Village

 

Black Creek Pioneer Village, once a historical site, has evolved into a sanctuary for those who reject advanced technology, emphasizing cultural preservation through traditional crafts like blacksmithing and weaving. As tensions rise, a rival faction pressures the villagers to produce weapons, threatening their fragile independence and forcing players to navigate the delicate balance between survival and tradition.

Plot Hook: Players can intervene in the escalating conflict by mediating between the villagers and the rival faction, seeking a peaceful solution that safeguards the village’s autonomy. Alternatively, players may choose to side with the rival faction, gaining access to powerful allies but risking the village’s treasured way of life in the process.

Forest Hill

 

In Forest Hill, once a symbol of wealth and luxury, the mansions have fallen into the hands of the Technocrats, a bandit faction that combines brute force with salvaged technology to establish their chaotic rule. With the neighborhood transformed into a strategic base of operations filled with makeshift barricades and improvised weaponry, the gang thrives on scavenging and cunning, while their charismatic leader offers a dangerous bargain to anyone daring enough to navigate the treacherous landscape.

Plot Hook: The bandit leader promises players access to a hidden cache of high-tech weaponry if they assist in overthrowing a rival faction threatening their dominance. However, as players negotiate their involvement, they must weigh the risks of betrayal and the ethical implications of aligning with such a ruthless group.

Kleinburg

 

Kleinburg is a small, resilient village north of Toronto that has become a crucial stop for wanderers and traders in the post-apocalyptic world, characterized by its charming rustic architecture and a lively marketplace where bartering and scavenging thrive. However, recent strange sightings in the nearby forests—rumored to indicate a hidden Mechanical Life Forms (M.L.F.) facility—have sparked concern among the wary but welcoming residents, as they navigate the delicate balance of community and the unknown dangers lurking nearby.

Plot Hook: The village council hires players to investigate the unsettling rumors surrounding the sightings, seeking to uncover the truth about the hidden M.L.F. facility. As the players delve into the forest, they risk not only their own safety but the very peace and stability of Kleinburg itself, confronting potential foes and unexpected alliances along the way.

McMichael Canadian Art Collection

 

The McMichael Canadian Art Collection, nestled in the heart of Kleinburg, stands as a revered sanctuary dedicated to preserving pre-apocalypse Canadian art and culture, guarded by passionate caretakers who view their mission as a sacred duty. However, the gallery is thrown into turmoil when a significant piece of artwork, rumored to contain a coded map to a hidden vault of invaluable artifacts, goes missing, prompting the community to fear that it may have fallen into the hands of those who would exploit its secrets.

Plot Hook: Players are enlisted to investigate the disappearance of the artwork, racing against time to retrieve it before it can be used for nefarious purposes. As they delve into the criminal underbelly of the region, they must navigate a world where art has taken on a life of its own, with surreal aberrations complicating their quest.

Mount Pleasant Cemetery

 

Mount Pleasant Cemetery is an eerie yet captivating expanse, patrolled by the notorious Kamidavers—undead daredevils fiercely protective of this sacred ground, which is rumored to hold powerful relics buried within its crypts. As players venture into this unsettling realm, they are tasked with retrieving a rare relic said to grant control over the Fossilborn brutes that wander the landscape, but they must navigate the vengeful spirits and the whimsical chaos of Kamidaver guardians that threaten their mission. 

Plot Hook: Players must brave the haunted depths of Mount Pleasant Cemetery to locate the elusive relic before it falls into the wrong hands. Facing unpredictable challenges from the Kamidavers and the risk of awakening vengeful spirits, they must rely on cunning and courage to secure their prize.

Ontario Science Centre - Frozen Echo

 

Nestled within the ruins of the Ontario Science Centre, the Frozen Echo is a sprawling technological hub that serves as the primary base for the Mechanized Liberation Front (M.L.F.), a faction of tech scavengers and engineers dedicated to reviving pre-apocalypse innovation. The upper levels of the Centre, dominated by domed halls, resonate with the hum of active drones and the enigmatic murmur of arcane-infused machinery. However, beneath the Centre lies the Frozen Echo—a hidden, frost-encased laboratory frozen in time. Holographic displays flicker eerily, recounting moments from the world before its collapse, while cryogenically preserved creatures stir within their icy chambers. Though the M.L.F. controls the upper levels, the deeper sections are infested with frost elementals, presenting an ongoing hazard to the engineers and their efforts.

Plot Hook: The facility's central AI, once an ally of the M.L.F., has gone rogue, seizing control of critical systems and locking down key areas. The players must either neutralize or negotiate with the AI, which cryptically claims to hold knowledge essential to preventing future cataclysms.

Canada Wonderland: A Ruined Carnival of Chaos

 

Once a vibrant theme park filled with joy and laughter, Paramount’s Canada Wonderland has succumbed to the ravages of time and disaster, transformed into a treacherous labyrinth teeming with traps, mutated wildlife, and the remnants of its former glory. Raiders have claimed the sprawling grounds as their stronghold, using the park's winding paths and dilapidated attractions to stage ambushes and protect their ill-gotten gains, while intrepid survivors brave the dangers in search of lost treasures among the twisted remains of roller coasters and carnival rides. Amid the chaos, a survivor has emerged, claiming to have discovered a functioning piece of pre-apocalypse technology buried deep within the park, igniting a frenzy among both raiders and treasure seekers alike.

Plot Hook: Players are hired to retrieve this rumored tech, but navigating the hazardous grounds of the former theme park will require them to contend with vicious raiders and the park’s mutated denizens, which have adapted to their chaotic environment. As they delve deeper into the heart of Wonderland, they'll encounter deadly traps and bizarre creatures, all while uncovering the dark secrets behind the park's transformation—forcing them to decide whether the potential reward is worth the risks they face.

Rosedale - The Dwarven Enclave of Reconstruction

 

Once a symbol of affluence and power, Rosedale has been transformed into a hidden stronghold for a dwarven enclave dedicated to rebuilding society's old order in the wake of chaos. The grand homes of the neighborhood are now connected by an elaborate network of underground vaults and secret tunnels, serving as both living quarters and strategic command centers for the dwarves, who excel at craftsmanship and engineering. Here, they weave intricate plots and alliances, determined to restore the lost glory of civilization while navigating the complex web of politics and power struggles that accompany their noble ambitions.

Plot Hook: When an influential leader within the Rosedale enclave mysteriously disappears, cryptic messages are left behind, hinting at betrayal from within their ranks. Players are enlisted to unravel the clues, navigate the clandestine corridors of dwarven power, and locate the missing leader, all while contending with the threats posed by rival factions and the inner turmoil of the enclave.

Todmorden Mills Heritage Museum and Art Center

 

At the Todmorden Mills Heritage Museum and Art Center, the vibrant remnants of creativity stand as a refuge for wandering artists, historians, and outcasts, dominated by the quirky and industrious Trollitariots. This once-bustling hub of culture has transformed into a space of communal storytelling and barter, but a series of disturbing murals painted by a resident Trollitariot now casts ominous shadows over their gatherings, seemingly foretelling disastrous events that threaten the area and its inhabitants

Plot Hook: Players are enlisted to investigate the source of these unsettling murals, delving into the mysteries that surround them to determine if they are prophetic warnings, hallucinations, or something more sinister. As they navigate the eccentric Trollitariot community and the depths of the museum, they must unravel the truth behind the murals to safeguard the creative sanctuary from impending doom

Eastern Toronto: Windswept Frontiers

Eastern Toronto is a land of stark contrasts, where the remnants of urban life meet untamed wilderness. The region is defined by its proximity to Lake Ontario, serving as both a lifeline and a gateway to untold dangers across the water. The Scarborough Bluffs loom as a natural fortress, housing resilient settlements and dangerous factions. Communities like Glasswell fight for survival, while factions such as the Trollitariot Union seek control of the region's rich resources. Amid the chaos, mutated wildlife, rogue gangs, and strange phenomena shape life along the frontier.

Ebon Hollow (Scarborough Bluffs)

 

Ebon Hollow is a mysterious cave system filled with luminescent crystals and ancient carvings, said to amplify psychic abilities. This power has drawn daemons, Fossilborn shamans, and rogue psychic factions to the area. The hollow’s beauty belies its dangers, as its energies often come at a terrible cost.

Plot Hook: The players are tasked with escorting a scholar to study the hollow’s carvings. However, the mission takes a deadly turn when daemon activity surges, forcing the group to confront their own fears and limits.

Flying Squirrel Raiders

 

This mutant gang rules the skyline around the Glassfall Condos, using wingsuits, zip lines, and grappling hooks to ambush ground dwellers. Inspired by their namesake, the flying squirrel, they collect shiny objects and enforce a “sky tax” on those passing below. Their precarious settlements atop high-rise ruins give them unparalleled mobility and control over the area.

Plot Hook: The raiders have stolen an artifact vital to the survival of a nearby settlement. To retrieve it, the players must scale dangerous heights and outsmart the gang’s aerial tactics.

Greektown

 

Nestled amidst the chaotic clashes of Eastern Toronto, Greektown stands as a resilient cultural enclave where traditions flourish and community bonds run deep. The neighborhood is alive with vibrant festivals, bustling markets, and the aromatic delights of its diverse cuisine, reflecting the melding of Greek heritage with the influences of local Halfling and Minotaur populations. Halflings, known for their keen entrepreneurial spirit, run many of the shops and eateries, while Minotaurs, often seen as imposing figures, serve as both guardians and laborers, utilizing their strength to protect the enclave from the frequent raids by rival factions eager to exploit Greektown's wealth.

Plot Hook: A mysterious artifact unearthed in a local church has ignited tensions between Greektown and its neighboring factions, each laying claim to its power and significance. The players must delve into Greektown’s rich history to uncover the artifact's true origins and broker peace among the factions before conflict erupts, risking all they hold dear within this vibrant community.

Glasswell (Cathedreals Bluffs)

 

Nestled high within the cliffs of the Cathedreals Bluffs, Glasswell is a fortified settlement that serves as a crucial stronghold for the survivors of Eastern Toronto. While its breathtaking views and strategic positioning provide a sense of safety, the community struggles with the challenges of resupply and constant threats from rival factions and mutated wildlife, all while fostering a culture of resilience and resourcefulness.

Plot Hook: When leaders of Glasswell discover an ancient signal beacon buried within the cliffs, they face a critical decision: to activate it and potentially summon help from across the lake or to risk attracting greater dangers. Players are called upon to navigate the implications of this decision, weighing the promise of salvation against the looming threats that may arise from awakening unseen forces.

Scarborough

 

Once a bustling suburb, Scarborough has devolved into a vast, overgrown battleground where survivors struggle to navigate the ruins of their former homes. Rival factions engage in constant clashes over territory, while whispers of pre-apocalypse technology lure scavengers and adventurers into the dangerous landscape, turning the remnants of civilization into a chaotic conflict zone.

Plot Hook: Amidst the turmoil, a wandering Sylph arrives with claims of knowing the location of a hidden tech cache buried within Scarborough’s depths. Players must decide whether to trust the enigmatic Sylph and brave the treacherous territory in pursuit of this long-lost treasure, fully aware of the dangers that await.

Scarborough’s Hidden Shores

 

The lakeside areas of Scarborough are shrouded in mystery, hiding sunken ships and remnants of former industries beneath the surface, along with secrets waiting to be uncovered. These submerged locations offer the promise of wealth and valuable knowledge for those courageous enough to navigate the dangers of underwater traps and lake-dwelling predators, turning the hunt for treasure into a perilous adventure.

Plot Hook: When a scavenger promises to share the profits from an underwater expedition with the players, they eagerly agree to join the exploration. However, what begins as a straightforward dive soon unveils a hidden Haraak outpost lying beneath the waves, thrusting them into an unexpected and treacherous situation.

Humber Valley: Verdant Battleground

The Humber Valley is a lush yet dangerous expanse where nature has begun to reclaim its dominance. Once a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, it now serves as a vital lifeline for survivalists and factions seeking refuge or resources. Its winding river and dense parks provide bountiful opportunities for fishing, scavenging, and crafting, but also hide threats ranging from mutated wildlife to rival factions. The valley is a contested zone where cooperation and conflict shape the lives of its inhabitants.

Key Locations

Colborne Lodge

 

Nestled within the wilds of High Park, Colborne Lodge stands as a beacon of ingenuity amidst chaos. Once a historic house museum, it has been transformed into a fortified sanctuary by its enigmatic resident, a Feylin inventor known as Professor Sparkpaw. The lodge’s interior is a marvel, crammed with salvaged pre-apocalypse technology and magic-infused devices, each blending arcane artistry with scientific precision. Sparkpaw’s inventions have earned them both awe and fear, from self-repairing automatons to enchanted defense systems that keep the park’s dangers at bay. However, the inventor’s secrecy and prickly demeanor have made them an enigma to the wider community.

Plot Hook: Professor Sparkpaw needs rare components from an abandoned military ruin, but the area is under the control of ruthless raiders. To earn the Feylin’s invaluable assistance, the players must either strike a deal with the raiders, infiltrate their stronghold, or risk a direct confrontation to recover the components.

Étienne Brûlé Park

 

Étienne Brûlé Park, once a beloved destination for picnics and nature walks, has transformed into a fortified sanctuary for a splinter group of the Fossilborn. With its breathtaking views of the Humber River, the park now serves as a refuge for outcasts and misfits seeking protection from the chaotic world outside. Led by a charismatic yet secretive leader, the group strives to cultivate a safe haven amidst rising tensions with neighboring factions who perceive their presence as a burgeoning threat. As the forest thickens and the river winds protectively around them, the stakes escalate, leading to inevitable confrontations and moral dilemmas for everyone involved.

Plot Hook: The Fossilborn leader urgently requests the players' assistance to bolster defenses and prepare for a looming raid by a rival faction intent on seizing control of the park, promising rare relics unearthed from the riverbank as payment.

High Park and the Legendary Capybaras

 

High Park has become a wild expanse of tangled greenery and overgrown ruins, where nature reclaims the city. At the heart of this chaotic haven, the legendary capybaras—descendants of the two infamous escapees who once captured the city’s imagination—have risen to mythical status. These creatures are revered as guardians of the park, believed to protect its balance and intervene when nature is imperiled. Stories abound of their ethereal appearances to ward off threats or their role in aiding those who respect the natural world. High Park is both a sanctuary for those who honor its rules and a perilous trap for those who defy them, as the capybaras’ domain is teeming with dangerous flora and fauna.

Plot Hook: A struggling enclave seeks the blessing of the legendary capybaras to protect their settlement, but earning their favor is no easy feat. The players must venture deep into the park to retrieve a sacred relic stolen by poachers or confront a creeping, supernatural blight threatening to consume the park’s fragile ecosystem.

Howard Tomb and Monument

 

Once a quiet historical landmark in High Park, the Howard Tomb and its surrounding monument have become an eerie nexus of spiritual and mystical energy. Shrouded in fog even on clear days, the area pulses with an unearthly glow, especially under the light of a full moon. Locals claim that the restless spirits of the Howard family and their loyal retainers guard the tomb, rising to defend it against intruders. The monument is said to contain an artifact of immense power: a binding seal capable of controlling the dead. Some believe the artifact keeps the spirits tethered to their earthly vigil, while others fear its misuse could unleash a wave of necromantic chaos. The site has become a place of both reverence and fear, attracting scavengers, researchers, and cultists alike, each with their own agenda.

Plot Hook: A powerful faction of necromancers seeks the artifact, aiming to harness its power for domination. The players must either secure the artifact before the necromancers can claim it or work to disrupt the spirits’ guardianship, knowing it could lead to unforeseen consequences. Every decision risks angering the restless dead, whose vengeance could engulf the park and beyond.

Humber River

 

Flowing gracefully through the heart of the Humber Valley, the Humber River stands as a vital artery of life and sustenance, providing fresh water, abundant fish, and a natural route for traveling between communities. In the shadow of its serene surface, however, lie hidden dangers; the riverbanks are fiercely guarded by territorial predators—both human and animal—who protect their resource-rich territories from intruders. As settlements along the river grow increasingly uneasy, a sense of unease settles over the surrounding areas, threatening the delicate balance of trade and survival in the valley ecosystem.

Plot Hook: After the trade settlement upstream halts all shipments due to reports of mysterious disappearances, the players are recruited to investigate the surrounding riverbanks, uncovering clues that might point to a new raider group or an elusive rogue faction preying on the unsuspecting.

Humber Valley Heritage Trail

 

The Humber Valley Heritage Trail weaves through the region like a lifeline, connecting various settlements while offering traders and travelers a scenic route through the verdant landscape. However, the beauty of the trail belies the dangers that lurk beneath its surface; broken bridges and unstable pathways create treacherous conditions, while hidden ambush points set by rival factions and predators threaten all who dare traverse it. As whispers of conflict echo along the path, those brave enough to journey here must navigate not only the physical challenges but also the intricate dynamics of power and survival in a heavily contested landscape.

Plot Hook: A local scout urgently recruits the players to escort a caravan laden with essential supplies through the Heritage Trail, but as they travel, the caravan soon finds itself pursued by a rival faction seeking to steal their goods, forcing the players into a high-stakes game of cat and mouse.

James Gardens

 

James Gardens, once a flourishing spectacle of cultivated beauty, has succumbed to nature's relentless embrace, transforming into a wild and untamed landscape rich with overgrown flora and hidden pathways. This lush setting, marked by its serene ponds and blooming vegetation, now serves as a favored meeting point for clandestine dealings among various factions who seek a discreet location to negotiate their precarious alliances and schemes. The thick foliage provides ample cover for secretive gatherings, but the delicate balance of power in the region hangs by a thread, with each meeting potentially leading to conflict or collaboration that could reshape the fate of the valley.

Plot Hook: While exploring the gardens, the players unexpectedly stumble upon a covert meeting between two rival factions, revealing a plot that could shift control of the region. Faced with the choice to intervene, spy, or negotiate, they must decide their course of action based on their own interests and goals.

Kipling Park

 

Kipling Park, once bustling with athletic events and family gatherings, now stands as a vital rallying point for survivors in the Humber Valley. The transformation of its sports facilities into makeshift training grounds has forged a new purpose, where individuals from various allied groups come together to hone their fighting skills, share resources, and foster a sense of camaraderie amidst the chaos of their new reality. The park regularly hosts events that not only build morale but also strengthen alliances, making it a beacon of hope and unity in a fractured world.

Plot Hook: As the community prepares for an annual festival celebrating their survival and unity, rumors begin to surface of impending sabotage aimed at dismantling the fragile alliances formed in the valley. The players are called upon to investigate the situation and uncover the identity of the saboteurs before the festival descends into chaos.

Lambton Woods Park

 

Lambton Woods Park, with its towering trees and tranquil streams, has evolved from a picturesque retreat into a shadowy refuge where hidden camps and supply caches abound. The dense foliage and maze-like undergrowth offer an ideal environment for smugglers and rebels seeking to evade the watchful eyes of rival factions and authorities. Nestled within this serene yet deceptive landscape are whispered tales of a hidden vault containing lost treasures from the pre-apocalypse era, drawing in adventurers and fortune seekers alike. But the allure of riches comes with peril, as the woods are fraught with dangers both natural and man-made.

Plot Hook: Draw by rumors of a hidden vault containing pre-apocalypse treasures, the players venture into Lambton Woods, where they must navigate traps and outwit rival treasure hunters also in search of the riches. As they explore the dense foliage, they face challenging choices about whether to ally with or confront smugglers who possess critical information about the vault's whereabouts.

Raptor’s Maw (Humber Valley)

 

Raptor’s Maw is a Fossilborn burial ground hidden deep within the dense forests of Humber Valley, where ancient stone monuments and fossilized nests stand as eerie testaments to a forgotten past. The area is steeped in somber energy, with restless Fossilborn spirits and bone constructs guarding the ossuaries from intruders. While the Fossilborn revere the site as sacred, rival factions, including rogue M.L.F. engineers, seek to exploit its resources, risking the wrath of the spirits and the destruction of its fragile sanctity.

Plot Hook: A Bone-Oracle tasks the players with recovering a sacred artifact from Raptor’s Maw, but the mission grows perilous as rival factions and restless spirits clash within the cursed burial ground.

Royal Toronto Golf Club

 

Once a pristine and exclusive golf course, the Royal Toronto Golf Club has transformed into a sprawling encampment for a nomadic faction that holds the vestiges of the past in high regard. The faction treats the greens as sacred grounds, meticulously maintaining the fairways and hazards as a tribute to a world long gone, while repurposing golf carts as their primary mode of transport. Amidst this nostalgic homage, the members engage in ritualistic gatherings that blend reverence for the game with the harsh realities of their existence, creating a unique culture that draws in curious visitors and wary travelers alike. 

Plot Hook: The are invited to a strange and ritualistic golf tournament hosted by a nomadic faction that reveres the past, where the stakes involve survival and the chance to gain prestige within the encampment. As they compete, they discover that the tournament serves a deeper purpose—settling old scores and determining leadership among the faction members. Navigating alliances and rivalries, the players must decide how to play the game, both on the course and off.

Sticker Lady’s Mansion

 

Nestled within the urban sprawl of Mississauga, the Sticker Lady’s Mansion stands as a hidden gem, its graffiti-covered exterior masking a rich history and a vibrant, unconventional spiritualism. Once the home of the legendary Sticker Lady, a prominent figure in Toronto’s street art scene, the mansion has become a pilgrimage site for those seeking good fortune and protection. Visitors leave a variety of offerings—stickers, trinkets, and personal mementos—hoping to win the favor of the Sticker Lady, who many believe has ascended to a spiritual realm, bestowing boons upon the worthy. Within the mansion, the air is thick with a strange magic; the walls hum with whispers, and unearthly symbols glow faintly, creating an enchanting atmosphere that attracts fey beings and urban mystics alike. 

Plot Hook: The sudden appearance of a rare, glowing sticker featuring a cryptic design ignites rumors of a hidden treasure map leading to legendary riches. As rival factions descend upon the temple, hoping to decipher the sticker's secrets, the players find themselves caught in the ensuing chaos, forced to navigate the tangled web of intrigue, deception, and the potential for untold wealth. Will they ally with others seeking the treasure or strike out on their own to uncover the mystery behind the Sticker Lady’s legacy?

  #drevrpg #hodgepocalypse #dnd5e #dungeonsanddragons #apocalypse #toronto #ontario #canada

Scarcity - Hodgepocalypse Toronto - Part 8 - Don River Valley and the Annex

 Don River Valley: The Verdant Divide

The Don River Valley is a haunting ribbon of greenery and ruin slicing through the post-apocalyptic cityscape. Overgrown trails meander past the twisted remnants of pre-fall infrastructure, where lush yet treacherous landscapes offer a stark refuge from urban chaos. Amidst rustling leaves and the earthy scent of damp soil, the valley teems with isolated enclaves of survivors, industrious scavengers repurposing relics of industry, and pockets of eerie tranquility where whispers of the supernatural linger in the air. This area has become a battleground of ideologies—natural preservationists, seeking to care for the rebounding flora and fauna; industrious rebirth advocates, striving to revive the valley’s industrial legacy; and predatory exploiters, intent on claiming its resources for their own gain. Each faction fights for control, navigating a landscape that is as beautiful as it is perilous, punctuated by legends that blur the lines between reality and the ethereal.

Key Locations

The Beaches (via the Don River)

 

The Beaches, where the Don River meets the desolate shores of Lake Ontario, is a grim testament to the past, littered with the wreckage of abandoned ships and eerie aquatic life. Once a lively community space, the shoreline has become a haunting locale fraught with danger, where the vital but treacherous waters conceal secrets and remnants of a lost world, drawing scavengers and adventurers into its web of mystery and conflict.

Plot Hook: A cryptic signal is emanating from the wreck of a cargo ship stranded offshore, hinting at untold treasures and forgotten technology. As players navigate the perilous waters, they must contend with rival scavengers and the unprecedented dangers lurking beneath the surface.

Chains of the Allan Rift

 

The incomplete Allan Expressway has transformed into the Chains of the Allan Rift, a mesmerizing yet perilous chasm where ethereal chains anchor the landscape, shifting and swaying with unpredictable magic. This breathtaking yet treacherous site is a battleground for Haraaks and raiders, all vying for control over the chains’ mysterious power, as they navigate narrow paths and face the threat of magical storms that threaten to tear the area apart.

Plot Hook: The party is enlisted to sabotage a faction's efforts to seize control of the chains, risking the delicate balance of the rift itself and possibly triggering catastrophic land shifts. As they traverse the precarious chains, they must engage in fierce combat while avoiding deadly falls and the tumultuous magic of the rift.

The Don Valley Golf Course

Once a pristine venue for leisure and sport, the Don Valley Golf Course has succumbed to the ravages of time, now an eerie expanse of tangled greens and crumbling clubhouses blanketed in creeping ivy and the remnants of nature's reclamation. The sprawling grounds, teeming with mutated wildlife and hidden dangers, serve as an unconventional rallying point for nomadic groups navigating the post-apocalyptic landscape. Whispers among traders and scavengers suggest that beneath the fairways and bunkers lies an extensive network of underground bunkers, remnants of a bygone era, housing resources, advanced technology, or even long-forgotten secrets waiting to be uncovered.

Plot Hook: A faction aims to transform the golf course into a neutral trade hub to foster alliances and commerce among the wandering tribes. However, to realize this vision, they must first enlist the party's help in clearing the area of aggressive raiders and mutated animals threatening their plans. As the adventurers delve deeper into the course, they stumble upon clues about the underground bunker, revealing that it may hold the key to an even greater conflict brewing between factions that could plunge the valley into chaos if not addressed.

Don Valley Parklands

 

The Don Valley Parklands stands as a lush and mysterious expanse, a dense network of winding trails and towering forests that teem with a vibrant yet mutated array of flora and fauna. Sunlight filters through the thick canopy, casting dappled shadows on the overgrown remnants of old city paths, where nature has reclaimed what was once a bustling urban landscape. By day, the sounds of rustling leaves and chirping creatures create an atmosphere of serene beauty; however, as twilight descends, the tranquility fades. The air thickens with tension as lurking predators and ingeniously crafted scavenger traps turn the park into a treacherous maze, ready to ensnare the unwary.

Plot Hook: An ambitious settlement aims to reopen the old park paths to facilitate safe trade routes, believing that a return to connectivity will bolster their survival. But their plans are met with fierce resistance from a hidden faction of survivalists who revere the park as sacred ground, protecting its secrets and the mutated wildlife within. Players are faced with the choice of negotiating with these guardians to find a peaceful resolution or taking more aggressive measures to eliminate the threat, all while navigating the lurking dangers of the parklands that shift with the setting sun.

Evergreen Brick Works (Brickwater)

Once a bustling hub of industrial activity, the Evergreen Brick Works has been reborn as Brickwater, a vibrant settlement that pulses with the rhythm of craftsmanship and industry. The sound of hammers striking anvils and the hiss of steam rising from massive forges fill the air, where skilled artisans and blacksmiths work tirelessly to forge not just tools, but symbols of resilience and innovation in a world rebuilt from the ashes of the past. The forges glow a warm, fiery orange, illuminating the settlement day and night, casting long shadows that dance along the weathered brick walls and serving as a beacon for traders and travelers seeking quality goods and the chance to barter. 

Plot Hook: The tranquility of Brickwater is threatened by a powerful figure who has set his sights on crafting a legendary weapon using the settlement's formidable forges. However, this ambitious project requires a rare and potent metal found deep within the ruins controlled by the fearsome Fossilborn, remnants of a bygone era imbued with formidable dangers. Players are hired by the craftsmen of Brickwater to venture into these perilous depths and recover the elusive metal, embarking on a treacherous quest that could either bolster the settlement’s strength or unleash chaos upon their vibrant community.

The Lower Don Trail

 

Winding alongside the meandering waters of the Don River, the Lower Don Trail acts as a vital artery for scavengers and traders, connecting settlements in a dangerous and unpredictable world. Dusty paths bordered by thick foliage offer concealed routes, while the soothing sounds of flowing water provide a deceptive sense of calm. Sunlight flickers through the canopy, illuminating the remnants of old city life—faded signs and crumbling relics—that stand as forgotten witnesses to the chaos that has since unfolded. Yet, beneath the tranquil surface lies a darker reality; the trail's secluded nature has made it a coveted ground for ambushes, where bandits and predatory creatures lie in wait, eager to take advantage of the unwary. 

Plot Hook: A valuable supply convoy, carrying essential goods for the thriving communities along the river, has gone mysteriously missing along the Lower Don Trail. The desperate traders and scavengers of the area hire players to track down the lost convoy, delving into the shadows of the trail to uncover the truth behind its disappearance. As they follow the clues, players must navigate the dangerous terrain and confront those responsible for the ambush, learning that the true threats may be closer than they ever anticipated.

Toronto Botanical Garden

 

Once a stunning oasis of natural beauty and horticultural excellence, the Toronto Botanical Garden has transformed into a lush sanctuary dominated by mutated flora in a post-apocalyptic world. Nestled in the heart of what was once a thriving city, the garden is now a stronghold guarded by a secretive group of harvesters and stumpies who fiercely protect its precious resources. Within its verdant boundaries lie rare medicinal herbs and sustenance that have become increasingly vital for survival. However, outsiders are met with suspicion and hostility, making the garden a formidable challenge for those seeking its hidden treasures.

Plot Hook: A nearby settlement has been struck by a mysterious illness that can only be cured with a rare plant found within the protective walls of the botanical garden. Players must find a way to infiltrate the garden or negotiate with its reclusive guardians to obtain the vital cure, balancing their desperation against the harvesters' fierce protectiveness and the dangers lurking within the mutated vegetation.

The Annex: A Refuge of Secrets and Status

The Annex is a district where refinement meets desperation, offering a mix of intellectual intrigue and physical peril. The Annex, a once-affluent neighborhood, now lies as a patchwork of crumbling mansions, fortified museums, and shadowed gardens. The area exudes an air of faded grandeur, where relics of a lost age coexist with survivors eking out lives amid the ruins. Intellectuals, scavengers, and those clinging to the vestiges of high society converge here, creating an uneasy harmony. Behind its ornate facades lie hidden vaults, clandestine operations, and fierce territorial disputes.

Key Locations

Bata Shoe Museum

 

The Shoe Museum, a whimsical sanctuary within The Annex, is presided over by a troupe of gnomes who cherish and protect its rich collection of historical footwear. With fortified walls and enchanted underground vaults, this peculiar museum has become a bastion of knowledge and oddity amidst a crumbling world, where each artifact tells a story and the guardians delight in defending their treasures from intruders.

Plot Hook: A rival faction plots to raid the museum for its legendary moccasins, rumored to grant the wearer extraordinary speed. Players must choose to either rally alongside the gnome defenders to thwart the raid or join the rogue band in pursuit of the powerful artifact.

Casa Loma

 

Majestically towering over The Annex, Casa Loma resembles a fairytale castle, its imposing towers and intricate stonework shimmering with an air of ancient splendor and modern mystery. Cloaked in ivy, this magnificent fortress is not just an architectural marvel but a labyrinthine stronghold, filled with hidden tunnels and secret chambers that breathe life into legends of intrigue. Within its fortified walls, are a legendary order of Sentinels known as the knights of capitalism (and the crooked knights by their benefactors, who fight “for a better economy.”

Plot Hook: A mysterious energy pulse emanating from Casa Loma has sent waves of interference rippling through the region, scrambling electronics and plunging the surrounding area into chaos. Players must devise a plan to infiltrate the castle's booby-trapped halls, navigating ethereal wards and unpredictable automatons while confronting the enigmatic knights who guard their secrets fiercely.

Spadina Museum

 

Once a stately Victorian mansion, the Spadina Museum has been transformed into a vibrant community center that serves as a nexus for artists and historians alike. This haven of creativity is surrounded by enchanting gardens, meticulously cultivated to house rare herbs and plants, while its galleries overflow with salvaged art and precious historical records, each piece narrating the tales of a world long past. The museum buzzes with the dynamic exchange of ideas, fostering collaboration and innovation in a society trying to piece itself together from the remnants of history.

Plot Hook: A valuable artifact has mysteriously vanished from the museum's collection, leaving behind a cryptic trail that leads to a forsaken district. As players embark on a quest to track the cunning thief, they will unravel a web of conspiracy that reveals shocking truths about the artifact's origins and its far-reaching implications for all of The Annex.

York Club: The Hidden Hub of Power Plays

 

Once the epitome of elegance and high society, the York Club now stands as a shadowy enclave where the echoes of laughter and clinking glasses have been replaced by whispers of intrigue and strategy. This exclusive meeting place for influential survivors and cunning dealmakers has adapted to the post-apocalyptic world, with its opulent wine cellar transformed into a fortified underground bunker, safeguarding secrets and resources. Above ground, the grand rooms that once hosted lavish soirées now serve as clandestine venues for negotiations, alliances, and power struggles, where the stakes are perilously high and the atmosphere crackles with tension.

Plot Hook: A crucial high-stakes negotiation between rival factions is poised to unfold within the York Club’s opulent yet treacherous confines. Players find themselves at a crossroads, hired as either mediators to foster peace or saboteurs seeking to undermine the agreement, with the fate of power in The Annex hanging in the balance.

   #drevrpg #hodgepocalypse #dnd5e #dungeonsanddragons #apocalypse #toronto #ontario #canada