Tier 2 – The Beast of Elden Hollow
**Tier 2 play**
In the land of Eldoria, where the skies shimmer with hues of azure and gold, a tale unfolds in the town of Elden Hollow. The townsfolk are abuzz with fear and confusion as a series of strange occurrences plague their once-peaceful home. Livestock have vanished without a trace, eerie howls echo through the night, and shadows seem to dance unnaturally along the cobblestone streets.
The party arrives in Elden Hollow, greeted by a distraught innkeeper named Marla. Her face is pale, and her hands tremble as she recounts the tale. “It all began when the moon turned blood-red three nights ago,” she whispers. “Since then, the elusive Beast of the Hollow has awoken. They say it was once a guardian spirit of the forest, but now it has turned malevolent. We need brave souls to investigate and put an end to its terror.”
As the party gathers information, they learn of a hidden glade deep within the Elden Woods, where the beast is said to dwell. Rumor has it that an ancient artifact, the Heartstone, was stolen from the beast, corrupting its spirit. Only by returning this artifact can the party hope to restore peace.
The journey through the Elden Woods is filled with sensory wonders and dangers. Sunlight filters through the leaves, casting dappled shadows on the forest floor, where the scent of wildflowers mingles with damp earth. However, the air grows heavy with tension as unnatural whispers drift through the trees, warning of the beast's patrols.
**Exploration Component:**
The party must navigate through the forest, solving puzzles and avoiding traps set by the beast. They encounter enchanted creatures—such as mischievous pixies and wise old owls—who offer cryptic hints or challenges in exchange for guidance. The players must use their skills to overcome obstacles, gathering clues about the beast’s lair.
**The Confrontation:**
Upon reaching the hidden glade, the party finds themselves face-to-face with the Beast of the Hollow—a towering, fur-covered creature with glowing emerald eyes and sharp claws. The beast roars as it lunges forward, its massive form a blur of fury and power.
**Boss Enemy Stats:**
– **Name:** Beast of the Hollow
– **Hit Points:** 80
– **Armor Class:** 15
– **Attack:**
– Bite: +6 to hit, 2d10+4 piercing damage
– Claw: +5 to hit, 2d8+4 slashing damage
– **Special Ability:** Frightening Roar (Recharge 5-6): All creatures within 30 feet must succeed on a DC 15 Wisdom saving throw or be frightened for 1 minute.
As the battle rages, the party can use their environment to their advantage, dodging behind ancient trees and utilizing spells or abilities to weaken the beast. If they manage to defeat the creature, they discover the Heartstone nestled in its lair—a pulsating gem that radiates warmth and light.
**Conclusion:**
Returning the Heartstone to its rightful place restores the beast’s spirit, transforming it back into a guardian. The grateful creature offers the party a blessing and a safe passage back to Elden Hollow, where they are hailed as heroes. With newfound respect from the townsfolk and tales of their bravery spreading far and wide, the party leaves Eldoria, their hearts filled with the magic of adventure and the bonds of friendship forged in the fires of battle.