A haunting and decrepit institution where the walls whisper of forgotten patients and unspeakable experiments. The Asylum stands as a dark monument to the madness and despair that once festered within, now a desolate and eerie place where only the bravest dare to tread.
Sometime in late 1795, the first, original hospital of Howling Hills opened up. They provide medical care of the time across town and later the growing region. The hospital employs some of the greatest medical pioneers in Europe within the young and growing Colonial United States. The first hospital slowly became a beacon of medical care research for the colonial states in what would later be New England. One hope is that the hospital could bring supernaturals and the mundane together.
Around 1797, something shifted, and people began vanishing inexplicably. The town takes notice when family members begin disappearing without a trace. No one can explain what is going on and leaves many citizens scratching their heads. 1798 comes to a head when the hospital starts taking in patients with new, unfamiliar symptoms. Symptoms are noted as darkening of veins, followed by darkening of extremities at a progressive rate until the entire form is a husk. These symptoms are assumed to be a new and advanced version of the Bubonic Plague. The new plague, now known as Corruption is a global threat.
By 1815, the original hospital is converted into an asylum to make way for a new, larger hospital to mitigate the demanding patient load. Resources have grown scarce and trials have begun to stop. The asylum is now utilized as a center to hold hysterical patients. However, the asylum is also utilized as a laboratory in an attempt to get to the bottom of Corruption and Aberration threats. At some point, it is discovered and shared globally that humans are not immune to the “taint” if they are bitten or wounded.
Rumors began spreading that the asylum might be experimenting on adults and children. Both uninfected and infected patients. Whatever the goal, there are whispers many of the people being experimented on do not survive. This leads to the asylum having a tarnished reputation to the point many have begun to fear the institution. Some reported screams coming from the institution during the night a few times a month. People begin to investigate and learning most who are institutionalized are never discharged.
By 1850, Howling Hills had become one of the first towns in the United States to implement the newly developed Veil brought over from England and India, in the hopes of safely protecting civilizations around the globe. Eventually, by 1875 the asylum is shut down under mysterious circumstances. The whereabouts of the former staff and patients are unknown but it is rumored patients were terminated and bodies were destroyed. As for the staff, no one knows. Either transferred to other cities to tend to those asylums or they vanished along with the patients.
Over the years, the asylum fell into disrepair. Crumbling and overwhelmed by nature. Adventurers have risked life and limb to explore the old asylum. These days, it is said to be haunted by the souls of old patients. The rumored experiments that had gone on so long ago are still a mystery. However, if one were to look carefully at the broken bars behind the reception desk, one could wonder if something violent may have happened behind the asylum’s closed doors a long time ago…
The Blackwater Swamp is a sinister, psionic bog that manifests the subconscious fears of any who wander within, luring in travelers only to torment them with their fears. Beneath its murky waters, tangled ley lines pulse with a dark vitality. Familiar whispers and intense hallucinations haunt those who dare to enter, leaving psychological—and sometimes physical—scars, making travelers question reality. Toxic, mind-altering plants and psionic flora heighten the swamp’s dangerous allure. Blackwater Swamp is a place where reality and imagination intertwine, where magic and madness walk hand in hand, and only those who embrace their fears or revel in their darkness can hope to emerge unscathed.
Beyond the woodlands of Howling Hills lies the Blackwater Swamp, a place the locals avoid due to the warped visions that both lure and terrify those who wander within. This eerie bog rests upon a web of potent psionic energy, with unnaturally tangled ley lines twisting like veins beneath its murky waters. The dense network of energy saturates the area, imbuing it with an unsettling vitality that has the ability to reflect the minds of those who wander within.
The swamp uncovers hidden fears and amplifies the thoughts, emotions, and subconscious desires of any traveler. Some who venture into its depths report hearing familiar whispers of lost loved ones echoing through the mist, drawing them further in, while others describe witnessing grotesque creatures rising from the waters, scaring them deeper into the swamp. One woman, who had a profound fear of fire, claimed that the swamp's waters ignited as if doused with oil. However, not all of these illusions are benign; survivors have recounted sustaining physical injuries, including puncture wounds and burns, which have left them with scars that match the haunting memories of their experiences.
Some theorists propose that the swamp's potent psionic nature originates from the remnants of a dead alien body buried deep within its depths, serving as a source of ancient psychic energy that has resulted in the unnatural tangle of ley lines and fuels the swamp's power. This theory is supported by the presence of unique flora within the swamp that exhibits psionic characteristics. Certain flowers can be used to brew mind-reading potions, while other potent fungi release toxic spores into the air, some of which are known to induce vivid hallucinations that can lead unsuspecting travelers into disorienting trances. This dangerous plant life not only yields powerful toxins but also enhances the swamp's hallucinogenic effects.
Despite its unsettling nature, the Blackwater Swamp holds immense potential for those brave enough to face it. Its ability to draw out fear becomes a gauntlet for those seeking to conquer their inner demons. Covens and hedgewitches have long sought refuge here, drawn by the power to cast spells and weave intricate enchantments through sheer will alone. The swamp’s psionic resonance amplifies the intentions of its visitors, transforming it into a sanctuary for practitioners of dark natural magic and arcane arts that thrive on emotion and instinct. Additionally, those who thrive on fear will discover that the swamp not only embraces them but also feeds their dark desires, turning it into a hunting ground for those who prey on the terror of captured souls.
Over time, residents of the swamp may find themselves changed. Living amidst its swirling energies alters both mind and body. Those who become attuned to its magic can carry its strange psionic power beyond its borders. However, this gift comes at a cost: prolonged exposure to the psionic currents often leads to a fraying of one’s sanity. The swamp blurs the lines between reality and illusion, and those who linger too long may struggle to distinguish their own thoughts from the visions it creates. The Blackwater Swamp is a place where reality and imagination intertwine, where magic and madness walk hand in hand, and only those who embrace their fears or revel in their darkness can hope to emerge unscathed.
"Channel 10 Advertisement"
The Howling Hills City Council would like to remind our citizens to visit and take in the beauty of our wonderful Botanical Gardens. Serving as the pinnacle of culture and beauty in Vermont, exclusive social gatherings as well as our famous High Tea can often be found within its lush and verdant expanse.
A gorgeous home to flora both mundane and supernatural, we would like to remind our citizens that you should not pick the flowers. Ever. Never ever. You will be met with firm societal disapproval, judgement from your peers, and almost certain extensive incarceration.
So please, visit and take the time to smell the roses. Should you wish to take part in the care, reach out to the local Garden Clubs here in the city!
The pulse of communication in the city, the Broadcasting Station is where Channel 10 News, The Howler, A-Lister Monthly, and regular weather reports get broadcasted! Towering antennas stretch into the sky, transmitting the latest updates, rumors, and secrets out to the City of Howling Hills. It's a hub of information, where voices both trusted and dubious reach every corner of the City.
Rumor has is that the News team of Channel 10 have found a way to get information from around the world and connect with other news teams!
Do you have an extensive military background involving hand-to-hand combat training and the usage of firearms?
Do you have significant experience with the occult?
Do you think being out in nature does not suck?
Are you not easily frightened?
Do you enjoy solitude?
Not afraid of the dark?
If so, please apply TODAY to be a Crystal Lake Ranger!
(Players can become Park Rangers without the need of an app or anything else! Simply add it to your titler!)
To be honest, we could probably use you at the Post Office as well, but first things first!
The Howling Hills City Council would like to assure citizens that rumors of disappearances at the Crystal Lake Campground have been blown significantly out of proportion. Most of the bodies have been recovered, rather than simply disappearing, so there is no cause for alarm.
Enjoy all the resplendent beauty that Mother Nature has to offer. Make some S’mores. Sing some songs. Tell a spooky story. Just be sure to sign the waiver with the park ranger before you head in. In triplicate, please.
Also, be sure to have a Howwwliiiing great time! Because our town is called Howling Hills. You’re welcome.
While this area of Howling Hills is Veiled along with the rest of the town limits, this was not always so. With its proximity to the mysterious waters of Crystal Lake as well as only sporadic and occasional RDA oversight, the woods of the campground have come to be known to the local citizenry as wild, alien, and most certainly dangerous to the unwary at the late night hour.
Strange supernatural flora and fauna can often be encountered here, with the wild and feral magic of the forest sometimes resulting in the presence of Corrupt spawns well away from the public eye.
In more recent years, the Crystal Lake Campground has also become a focus for the more sinister elements of Howling Hills. Growing numbers of occult rituals, fiendish experiments, and brutal slayings have all taken place within these woods, often out of sight of the watchful eyes of the RDA.
As the first rays of dawn touched its surface, the lake would sparkle like crystal, casting a shimmering glow across the trees. The locals began calling it Crystal Lake, believing the waters held ancient magic, a gift from the spirits of the land. They say that those who look into the lake on a clear night can glimpse visions of the past, while others claim that whispers rise from beneath its surface, echoing secrets long forgotten. Over time, Crystal Lake became a place of reverence, a gathering spot for those seeking answers or clarity, or merely to bask in the lake’s rare and haunting beauty. Its not uncommon for one to go camping here to find themselves when lost.
Located near our busy train station, the Downtown Motel is often one of the first stops for visitors and new citizens alike.
Management has assured the Howling Hills City Council that the facility meets the minimum requirements for habitability, ensuring that your stay will be passable.
Management has also asked us to state that there are hourly rates available. They winked twice while emphasizing this and made a circular motion with their hips. We have notified the RDA.
A vibrant and mysterious alleyway where magic is not just practiced but celebrated. The Magic District is alive with the glow of arcane symbols, the scent of rare herbs, and the hum of incantations. Here, sorcerers, witches, and magical beings mingle, trading spells, secrets, and enchanted wares.
Home of the Cursed Hotdog Stand. Its said whoever finds this place will be lucky or unlucky enough to try the spookdogs served by the local Poltergeist Charlie.
Nestled along the edge of the canal in Howling Hills, this warm and lively Mexican eatery serves up street-style favorites with a waterside view. The scent of grilled meats and roasted peppers drifts through the air as fresh tortillas, zesty salsas, and seasonal aguas frescas bring bold, comforting flavors to every table. Whether you’re craving tacos at twilight or a quiet meal by the water, it’s a hidden gem that feels like home.
We at 13 Moons place a strong emphasis on education, offering a variety of workshops and classes on topics such as tarot reading, spell crafting, herbalism, and different forms of divination. The School store provides a wide range of occult items!
Learn More About 13 Moons Here
New to the craft? Our knowledgeable and experienced staff provide personalized guidance and recommendations to help you on your spiritual journey
A bustling and inviting location, Murphy's Pub is where locals come to unwind after a long day. The smell of hearty food and the sound of clinking glasses fill the air, as stories and laughter are shared over pints of ale. It's a place where everyone knows your name and the troubles of the world seem a little lighter.
Home of the Goodest Girl, Willow! Stop by and give her a happy head pat to show your support to the local icon.
The iconic Palace Theatre has been the site of several of Vermont’s greatest artistic triumphs, for stage and screen alike. Delight in dramatic productions where it is somewhat likely that none of the actors were injured significantly! Take in the latest movie and vid offerings from around the world that have been approved by the World Council!
Please ignore any screams from the rafters and wings of the stage, there is no need for alarm, all is well.
Management has also asked us to clarify: The popcorn is not topped with real butter, but instead a buttery topping. There is a legal difference, for liability purposes.
The Red Light District is a place where the night never ends, and the air is thick with vice and temptation. Neon signs flicker above doorways that lead to hidden pleasures and illicit activities. It's a world of shadows and secrets, where desires are fulfilled, and moral boundaries are tested. Those within the Underground often frequent the streets here. The RDA rarely venture to this place for worry the local residents won't take kindly to the law sticking its nose where it doesn't belong.
A gritty and impoverished area, The Slums are where Howling Hills forgotten dwell. Narrow, winding streets are lined with crumbling buildings, and the air is thick with the scent of decay. Despite the harsh conditions, a strong sense of community and resilience can be found among the residents who call this place home. The Gangs tend to take care of their home turf, keeping the RDA at bay and making sure the local residents have what they need to survive the cruel judgement of the City Law.
A relic from a time before Howling Hills' Magitech advancements, this old transit system operates on a modified kinetic energy system, allowing the Old Non-Magic Train to run even when the Veil goes down. Serving as both an emergency transportation network and a gateway to the city's technological past.
Legend has it that riding the train can charge non-magical devices powered by electricity and even boost old phone signals. Surely, someone will put this theory to the test? (Spoiler: It’s true!)
Near Waterfall Park stands the Veiled Sanctum Church, a crumbling relic with a dark past. Once home to a devout blood cult of macabre and intangibles, it now lies abandoned, its ruins overtaken by nature’s relentless embrace.
In the church hides a secret portal to the Obsidian Towers. This portal is currently not working.
The High Society Residential District of Citizens within the City. There is no telling what intrigue and influence these individuals have within the City of Howling Hills. What is known, is that on rare occassion they open their doors to Individuals wishing to learn more about the secrets of those who live here.
{SCP-Waffle Shack} Always there, never not been there. Clearly this neighborhood was built around it and not the other way around. The walls are real (the walls are disguised flesh & Damages will make them bleed). The food is real (you might come back craving more). The best Waffle place this side of the veil.
Official NPCS
Chef: Always cooking, never turns around to show his face. But if you compliment the chef, he'll give you extra bacon!
Waitress: Never can be seen directly. Always stands in the corner of ones gaze and if they look she vanishes into the back. Sometimes, food just magically appears.
Bathroom Tentacles: That's just Steve. Steve gets hungry sometimes and people go missing. Everyone loves Steve. No one would ever hurt Steve. Steve's a standup guy.
The tranquil beauty of Waterfall Park serves as the ideal location for community gatherings, weddings, celebrations, and general relaxation. Delight in the sounds of the water and the wind through the trees, revel in the beauty of nature and our fair town.
Note: Any corpses found in the water or otherwise around the park should be immediately reported to the RDA. Any unidentified aerial phenomena or interstellar artifacts should be reported as well, and please do not touch or lick them. Thank you and have a wonderful day in Howling Hills!
Rumor has it, a hidden passageway can be found behind one of the waterfalls. But will you dare tempting fate with Alluring to uncover this secret?
This is a bar. It serves Whiskey. It also serves other alcohol than whiskey. You can relax and enjoy whiskey at this bar. Or relax and enjoy alcohol other than whiskey.
It is said this bar is a place of refuge for Criminals and Locals in the DownTown District. It may be open at late hours or carry a few extra items on the menu should someone need them.
If any of these concepts are confusing to you, the Howling Hills City Council strongly suggests reporting to the City Hospital for examination and/or investigation, thank you.