Overview
Valindra is a lich and servant of the Red Wizards of Thay who operates from a hidden lair in the Heart of Ubtao, a petrified tree in Chult’s wilderness. She is searching for the Soulmonger and serves as a potential antagonist or source of information for adventurers.
Role in the Adventure
Valindra is stationed at the Heart of Ubtao to investigate the death curse and locate the Soulmonger. Her undead patrols capture explorers who venture too close, bringing them to her lair for interrogation before disposing of them in the swamp. She represents a significant threat as a lich with resources and knowledge about Chult.
Characteristics
- Undead Nature: As a lich, Valindra doesn’t require normal comforts. She doesn’t need a bed or extensive sleep, instead meditating briefly at her desk each day
- Elven Heritage: Her elven background means she requires only meditation rather than full sleep
- Scholar: Spends most of her time studying maps and historical texts, searching for the Soulmonger’s location
- Ruthless: Casually disposes of prisoners after interrogation
Resources and Defenses
Lair Location: Her cave lair is accessed via smooth stairs within the petrified tree trunk. The cave is musty and dimly lit by filtered daylight from 20 feet above, featuring a central pool of dirty rainwater and root-formed pillars.
Undead Forces: Commands undead patrols that roam the area. Keeps six Chultan zombies and two girallon zombies in a closet (area 5), which stand inert until attacked or called upon.
Library: Maintains extensive bookcases filled with books, scrolls, tablets, and maps covering Chult’s history, geography, culture, and natural philosophy—all predating the Spellplague.
Magical Resources:
- A teleportation circle etched on the floor (area 6) that can be used as a destination by those who memorize its sigils
- Two spell scrolls of arcane gate on her shelves
- Her actual spellbooks are kept safely back in Thay, not in the lair
Security: The iron cage in her lair holds captured prisoners during interrogation. She wisely doesn’t leave sigils from her Thayan teleportation circle accessible, preventing pursuit if she escapes.
Notable Interests
Valindra covets Syndra Silvane’s map and would “literally kill” to possess it if she learns of its existence, as it would aid her search for the Soulmonger.