Tier 2 – The Haunting of Eldenwood (2)

**Tier 2 play**

In the vibrant realm of Eldoria, where magic flows as freely as the rivers and the skies shimmer with the hues of enchantment, a peculiar event has drawn the attention of adventurers far and wide. The once-peaceful village of Eldenwood has been beset by a series of mysterious occurrences that have left its inhabitants in a state of fear and confusion. As the sun sets behind the rolling hills, casting long shadows over the cobblestone streets, the party finds themselves at the heart of this unfolding mystery.

The villagers whisper of a spectral figure seen roaming the outskirts of the enchanted Eldenwood Forest—a place known for its ancient trees that hum with magic and secrets. This figure, clad in tattered robes that seem to flow like mist, has been spotted near the old ruins of a long-forgotten temple. It is said that the figure can manipulate the very fabric of reality, causing strange phenomena to occur: crops withering overnight, livestock disappearing without a trace, and a chilling fog that envelops the village each night.

As the party gathers information at the local tavern, "The Gilded Griffin," they learn that the village council has offered a handsome reward for anyone brave enough to uncover the truth behind the haunting. The council believes that the spectral figure is connected to an ancient artifact hidden within the temple ruins—an artifact that once protected the village from dark forces but has now become a source of turmoil.

The adventurers must navigate the treacherous Eldenwood Forest, where the trees seem to shift and whisper, leading them deeper into the heart of the mystery. Along the way, they encounter enchanted creatures, such as mischievous pixies and wise old treants, who may offer guidance or obstacles depending on the party's actions.

Upon reaching the temple ruins, the party discovers that the spectral figure is, in fact, the spirit of a long-dead guardian who once protected the artifact. The guardian's soul is tormented, trapped between the realms of the living and the dead, due to a dark curse cast by a malevolent sorcerer who sought to harness the artifact's power for himself. To free the guardian and restore peace to Eldenwood, the party must confront the sorcerer, who has taken residence in the depths of the ruins, drawing power from the artifact.

**Boss Enemy: Malakar the Cursed Sorcerer**

– **HP:** 75

– **AC:** 15

– **Attack:** Dark Bolt (Spell Attack +7, 2d8+4 damage)

– **Special Ability:** Shadow Veil – Once per encounter, Malakar can become invisible for one turn, reappearing to launch a surprise attack.

As the party battles Malakar, they must also navigate the temple's magical traps and illusions, testing their wits and teamwork. Once defeated, Malakar’s curse is lifted, allowing the guardian to rest in peace. The party retrieves the artifact, which they must decide whether to return to the village or keep for themselves, knowing that its power could either protect or endanger the realm.

With the village saved and the mystery unraveled, the adventurers leave Eldenwood with newfound fame, their names echoing in the tales of the villagers, and perhaps a few magical trinkets as tokens of gratitude. The adventure concludes as the sun rises over Eldoria, hinting at new journeys yet to come.