Tier 2 – The Haunting of Eldergrove (2)
**Tier 2 play**
In the enchanting realm of Eldoria, where vibrant forests whisper ancient secrets and the skies shimmer with the hues of magic, the town of Eldergrove stands at the heart of a brewing mystery. Once a peaceful hamlet, it is now gripped by fear, as strange occurrences plague its citizens. Reports of shadowy figures stalking the moonlit streets and disturbing cries echoing through the night have left the townsfolk in disarray.
The party arrives in Eldergrove just as the sun dips below the horizon, casting an ethereal glow over the cobbled streets. The aroma of baked bread and spiced ale wafts from the local tavern, The Gilded Griffin, where anxious whispers fill the air. A few brave souls dare to speak of the Fisher family, who vanished without a trace twenty years ago, leaving behind a legacy of unanswered questions. Rumors suggest that their spirits have returned, seeking justice for their untimely demise.
As the adventurers gather information, they learn that the Fisher home, an ominous structure on the outskirts of town, has been reported as the epicenter of the disturbances. Old Mrs. Althea, the town seer, claims that the spirits are restless, bound by an ancient curse that can only be broken by uncovering the truth of their deaths.
The party’s investigation leads them to the Fisher estate, shrouded in mist and overgrown vines. Creeping through the creaking door, they discover a dusty interior filled with faded portraits and forgotten memories. The atmosphere is thick with tension, punctuated by the occasional flicker of ghostly shadows. The party must navigate through spectral puzzles and face the remaining echoes of the Fisher family's tragic fate.
**Exploration Components:**
– **The Haunted Library:** The group finds a hidden compartment containing the Fisher family journal, revealing cryptic entries about a family feud and a cursed artifact.
– **The Overgrown Garden:** A maze of twisted vines leads to a sunken statue, which when restored reveals a glimmering gemstone that is key to the curse.
**Enemy Encounter:**
As the adventurers delve deeper, they awaken the spirit of Graham Fisher, who, consumed by sorrow and rage, transforms into a vengeful specter. He is bound to defend the truth of his death and prevent the party from uncovering it.
**Boss Stats:**
– **Graham Fisher (Specter)**
– **Hit Points:** 45
– **Armor Class:** 13
– **Attack:** Ethereal Touch – melee spell attack (+6 to hit, 2d8 necrotic damage)
– **Special Ability:** Haunting Wail (Recharge 5-6) – All creatures within a 30 ft. radius must make a DC 15 Wisdom saving throw or be frightened for 1 minute.
As they confront Graham, the adventurers must decide: will they fight him, or find a way to help him move on? The choice they make will shape the fate of Eldergrove and its haunted history. Will they unveil the truth behind the Fisher family, or will they leave the town forever ensnared in its dark past? The outcome of this one-shot adventure rests in their hands, filled with magic, mystery, and the echoes of lost souls yearning for justice.