Six Random Lakeside Encounters
Party arrived at a lakeside? Got a d6 to hand? Well then, here's a table of random fantasy rpg encounters for you to use. Enjoy!
One
Five Frogs Sitting on a log by the edge of the lake can be seen five large bullfrogs. They appear to be arguing with each other in a loud croaking cacophony. The middle frog appears to be wearing a small gold crown. When they notice the characters observing them the outer four sit straight up as if to attention and glance at the crown-wearing frog. He nods to the characters then dives into the water followed by his fellow frogs.
Two
Water Elemental The surface of the water ripples and a shifting mass of water rises six feet high and the rough approximation of a head appears. It gazes around and fixes the characters with a water stare; its features swelling and contracting and water running constantly down its sides. It points at the water of the lake and still looking at the characters shakes its head before sinking back under or into (it’s impossible to tell which) the water again.
Three
Sword Throw As the characters come out of the undergrowth, they spot a knight in battered armour throwing a longsword far out into the lake. Just as the sword is about to hit the lake a suckered tentacle breaks the lake surface and grabs it, holding it aloft for a brief second before pulling it under the water. With a cry of shock and horror the knight takes half a step forward before grasping his chest and collapsing.
DM Notes
On inspection, it is found he has died from a heart attack.
Resuscitation doesn’t work and in the process of trying evidence of the deceased being under a curse becomes apparent.
Should they have the capacity to search the lake there is no sign of the sword or the tentacle creature.
Four
Abandoned Campsite A smoking campfire is found by the side of the lake. The fire is still warm, and three fish have been smoked over it. Simple tin plates have been put out along with wineskins. There are two bedrolls and equipment but no signs of any people.
Five
Funeral Arrow A small group of human mourners can be seen about a hundred yards away at the edge of the water. A fire barge with a body on it has been pushed out onto the lake. The wind has picked up though and the mourners have been unable to hit the boat with a fire arrow to light it. They are starting to get agitated and the boat is starting to move out of range. There is time perhaps for another three shots at the boat.
Six
Musical Water The lake shimmers in the sunlight and as the sun lowers a faint but audible sound of singing comes from the lake. Upon investigation, it appears to be coming from the water itself. It sounds like crystal clear choir singing but as if it is coming from a long way away or a long time ago. Whilst unusual it is oddly relaxing. Anyone sleeping close enough to the lake to hear it will wake more fully rested than normal.
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Picture Credits
Original Image: https://pixabay.com/photos/knight-beaten-medieval-battle-321443/
Original Image: https://pixabay.com/photos/river-riverbank-rushes-reeds-1507097/
Manipulation: The Grinning Frog team