Tier 2 – The Mystery of Aleksandr Benga
**Tier 2 play**
In the vibrant realm of Eldoria, where the skies shimmer with the hues of magic and ancient stories weave through the very fabric of reality, whispers of a troubling mystery have begun to echo throughout the coastal towns. A vibrant festival was set to take place in the bustling village of Stornoway, drawing adventurers, merchants, and families alike, until tragedy struck. Young Aleksandr Benga, a spirited teenager known for his curious nature, has gone missing, last seen wandering the lush grounds of Lews Castle, a relic of a bygone era surrounded by legends of enchantment and danger.
As the sun sets, casting an ethereal glow over the landscape, the townsfolk gather to express their fears and uncertainties. The local constable, a weary figure with deep-set eyes, approaches your party, desperation evident in his voice. “We need your help! The forest surrounding the castle has been alive with strange magic since Aleksandr vanished. Many have entered, but none have returned. If you can locate him, perhaps we can uncover what binds him to this ancient site.”
Your adventure begins at the castle’s entrance, where ivy clings to the ancient stone walls, and an enchanting mist rolls lazily over the ground. The air is thick with the scent of damp earth and magic, a palpable force that seems to thrum with energy. As your party steps beyond the threshold, the heavy wooden doors creak open, revealing a grand hall filled with shadows and whispers of the past.
Each step deeper into the castle reveals rooms overgrown with flora, mosaic tiles depicting battles of yore, and the remnants of a once-great library, where books dangle by vines, as if the very nature of the castle is reclaiming its history.
Suddenly, a chilling breeze swirls through the hall, and the laughter of children echoes, though no one is in sight. The party must navigate through the castle, facing magical traps and illusions designed to protect its secrets. As they explore, they may find clues in the form of Aleksandr’s belongings scattered throughout the castle, leading them to hidden chambers and revealing the secrets of the ancient magic that resides within.
However, the deeper they venture, the more they must confront the forest’s guardian—a powerful spirit corrupted by the loss of the boy. This guardian takes the form of a monstrous creature, a **Gloom Wraith**.
**Gloom Wraith Stats:**
– **Armor Class:** 15
– **Hit Points:** 85 (10d10 + 30)
– **Speed:** 0 ft., fly 60 ft. (hover)
– **Abilities:**
– **Strength:** 10 (-1)
– **Dexterity:** 16 (+3)
– **Constitution:** 16 (+3)
– **Intelligence:** 6 (-2)
– **Wisdom:** 14 (+2)
– **Charisma:** 18 (+4)
– **Actions:**
– **Multiattack:** The Gloom Wraith makes two attacks.
– **Life Drain:** Melee Spell Attack: +9 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 22 (4d10) necrotic damage, and the target must succeed on a DC 15 Constitution saving throw or have its hit point maximum reduced by an amount equal to the damage taken. The reduction lasts until the target finishes a long rest.
As your party confronts the Gloom Wraith, they must not only defeat the creature but also unravel the magic binding Aleksandr to the castle, confronting the sorrow that has twisted the spirit. Will they be able to break the curse, return the boy to safety, and restore peace to Stornoway? The fate of the village hangs in the balance, as you guide them through this haunting tale of adventure, friendship, and the unyielding power of hope.