Tier 2 – The Festival of Bonds A Quest for Friendship

**Tier 2 play**

In the vibrant city of Eldoria, where the streets shimmer with enchantment and laughter dances in the air, a peculiar challenge has emerged. The annual Festival of Bonds is approaching, a celebration that celebrates friendship and unity among the diverse denizens of this magical realm. However, a dark shadow looms over the festival—an ancient spirit known as Malithor, the Wraith of Solitude, has awakened from its slumber. This malevolent entity feeds on loneliness and despair, threatening to shatter the bonds of friendship that the festival seeks to strengthen.

As the party gathers in a cozy tavern, the "Whimsical Wyvern," they overhear a frantic conversation among a group of university students. These young scholars, eager to forge new friendships, have been organizing blind friendship dates—an initiative to connect isolated individuals. However, their efforts have been thwarted by Malithor, who has been haunting the festival grounds, sowing seeds of doubt and fear among the attendees.

The party learns that Malithor can be defeated by rekindling the warmth of friendship and unity. To do so, they must embark on a quest to gather three enchanted tokens that represent the bonds of companionship: the Heartstone of Laughter, the Amulet of Trust, and the Emblem of Loyalty. Each token is hidden in a different location, guarded by challenges that test the party's resolve and camaraderie.

**Locations to Explore:**

1. **The Whispering Glade**: A serene forest where the Heartstone of Laughter is hidden. The party must navigate through playful illusions and solve riddles posed by mischievous fey creatures to earn the Heartstone. Here, they learn the value of joy and the importance of sharing laughter.

2. **The Cavern of Echoes**: A dark and winding cave where the Amulet of Trust is concealed. The party must confront their deepest fears and insecurities, facing spectral reflections of themselves. Only by embracing their vulnerabilities and supporting one another can they claim the amulet.

3. **The Summit of Loyalty**: A towering peak where the Emblem of Loyalty awaits. The party must ascend the treacherous cliffs, facing challenges that test their teamwork and determination. Along the way, they encounter a wise sage who offers guidance but challenges them to prove their loyalty to one another.

After gathering the three tokens, the party must confront Malithor in the heart of the festival, where the spirit has begun to drain the joy of the attendees. Armed with the tokens representing the bonds of friendship, the party can engage in a climactic battle against the Wraith of Solitude.

**Boss Enemy: Malithor, the Wraith of Solitude**

– **HP**: 120

– **AC**: 15

– **Attack**: Ethereal Grasp (Melee Attack, +7 to hit, 2d8+4 psychic damage)

– **Special Ability**: Shroud of Despair – All creatures within 30 feet must make a Wisdom saving throw (DC 15) or be frightened until the end of their next turn.

– **Legendary Action**: Malithor can take one legendary action to drain the joy of a creature, reducing their maximum HP by 10 until the end of the encounter.

With determination, teamwork, and the power of friendship, the party can defeat Malithor, restoring joy to the Festival of Bonds. As the sun sets and the festival begins anew, the party will witness the true magic of connection, leaving a lasting impact on the hearts of the people of Eldoria.