Tier 2 – The Laughter’s Sceptre

**Tier 2 play**

In the bustling city of Eldoria, ripples of laughter fill the air as colorful banners are hung across the streets in preparation for a grand event. However, amidst the joyful atmosphere, a somber undertone lingers—Janey Godley, a beloved local comedian known for her wit and charm, has passed away. Her family and friends are organizing an extravagant funeral at St. Mary’s Cathedral, one that honors her vibrant spirit with a kaleidoscope of colors and laughter.

As the party arrives in Eldoria, they are drawn to the spectacle at the cathedral. Brightly dressed mourners are sharing stories and laughter, creating an ambiance that feels almost like a festival. However, something sinister looms beneath the surface. As the party mingles with the crowd, they overhear whispers of dark omens and strange happenings linked to Janey’s passing—ghostly apparitions haunting the city streets and a malignant spirit rumored to be tied to her legacy.

Feeling a sense of duty to protect the city, the party decides to investigate the mystery surrounding Janey’s death. They learn from her family that Janey once possessed a powerful artifact known as the Laughter’s Sceptre, said to bring joy and harmony to the realm. However, it was mysteriously missing after her death. The family believes its absence has opened the gate for malevolent forces to invade Eldoria, causing unrest among the spirits.

**Investigation Component:**

The players must gather clues by interviewing mourners, visiting Janey's favorite spots around the city, and examining personal effects left behind. They might uncover Janey’s journal, which contains comedic anecdotes intertwined with hints of dark magic, or stumble upon a hidden room in the cathedral where Janey would practice her routines—only to find remnants of arcane energy lingering in the air.

**Exploration Component:**

As they explore Eldoria, they will travel through vibrant marketplaces, enchanted parks, and mystical alleyways where laughter and music once thrived. Along the way, they’ll encounter jubilant street performers and eccentric shops, but they must also watch out for vengeful spirits that may rise to defend the dark forces at play.

**Enemy Encounter:**

As the party gathers more information, they eventually discover that a malevolent spirit, once a rival comedian who felt overshadowed by Janey’s brilliance, has been unleashed. This spirit seeks to reclaim the Laughter's Sceptre and exact revenge on the living.

**Boss Enemy: Malicious Spirit of Laughter**

– **Type:** Undead (Spirit)

– **AC:** 14

– **HP:** 60

– **Attack:** Ethereal Grasp (Melee Attack): +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 14 (2d10) psychic damage and the target must succeed on a DC 15 Wisdom saving throw or be frightened until the end of their next turn.

– **Special Abilities:**

– **Eerie Echoes:** The spirit can create illusions of Janey's old comedic sketches, distracting and confusing the players. Each player must succeed on a DC 15 Wisdom saving throw or have disadvantage on their next attack roll.

– **Haunting Laughter:** Once per encounter, the spirit can unleash a terrifying laugh that echoes throughout the battlefield. Each creature within a 30-foot radius must succeed on a DC 15 Wisdom saving throw or become frightened until the end of their next turn.

As the party confronts this spectral foe, they must draw upon their wits and teamwork to defeat the spirit, restore the Laughter's Sceptre, and bring peace back to Eldoria. The session can culminate in a heartfelt farewell when Janey’s spirit finally finds rest, leaving the city forever changed but grateful for the laughter and joy she once brought.