Wolves of the Long Winter

Level 1-2, 2 hours. A wolf pack is attacking farms, but something is driving them out of the forest. Free 5E compatible one-shot for new DMs.

Hook

A farmer offers 50 gp total to stop the wolves killing his sheep.

Scene 1: Tracks

A DC 13 Wisdom (Survival) check shows the wolves are running from something deeper in the forest.

Scene 2: The pack

Three Wolves (CR 1/4) attack at dusk. A DC 13 Wisdom (Animal Handling) check or offering meat can make them back off.

Scene 3: The real problem

Four Bandits (CR 1/8) led by a Bandit Captain (CR 2) are burning the forest to clear a hidden camp. Lower the captain's HP for level 1 parties.

Treasure

Stolen farm tools, 60 gp, a longbow and a map to the bandits' next target (your next adventure hook).

Prep in 10 minutes

• Keep the conditions cheat sheet open for Prone, Grappled and Frightened.
• Roll a few backup names with the NPC name generator in case players talk to someone unexpected.
• Need more treasure? Use the loot generator.
• First time running a game? Do a quick session zero first.

More free one-shots

• The Goblin Toll Bridge
• The Haunted Mill

DM tips

• Read each scene before the session and note monster stats from the SRD.
• Use the encounter calculator to adjust for your party size.
• Track initiative and HP in the DM Table or on paper.