Tier 2 – The Curse of Caelum Keep

**Tier 2 play**

In the vibrant city of Eldoria, known for its majestic towers and bustling marketplaces, a peculiar disturbance has caught the attention of the local guilds. The once-peaceful streets are now filled with whispers of a malevolent force that has taken residence in the ancient ruins of Caelum Keep, a crumbling fortress that looms ominously on the outskirts of town. The townsfolk speak of strange lights flickering in the night and unsettling sounds echoing from the depths of the keep, sending shivers down their spines.

As your party gathers at the Rusty Lantern tavern, the air is thick with the scent of roasted meats and the sound of laughter and clinking mugs. The tavern keeper, a burly dwarf named Thrain, approaches your table with a concerned look. "Adventurers, if you have the courage, I have a job for you. The ruins of Caelum Keep are said to be haunted by a dark sorcerer known as Malakar, who seeks to unleash a terrible curse upon our city. The guild has offered a handsome reward for anyone brave enough to confront him."

With the promise of gold and the fate of Eldoria hanging in the balance, your party sets out under the cover of twilight, the moon casting an ethereal glow on the cobblestone path leading to the keep. As you approach, the air grows colder, and an eerie silence envelops the area. The once-grand entrance to the keep stands before you, its stone archway choked with vines and shadows.

Inside, the ruins are a labyrinth of crumbling walls and darkened corridors. Flickering torches cast dancing shadows, and the faint sound of chanting can be heard echoing through the halls. As you navigate deeper, you come across remnants of ancient battles—rusted weapons and tattered banners that tell tales of a long-forgotten era.

Suddenly, you stumble upon a hidden chamber where Malakar conducts his dark rituals. The sorcerer, a gaunt figure draped in tattered robes, stands before a swirling portal of energy, his hands raised as he channels dark magic. Realizing your presence, he turns with a sinister grin, revealing eyes that burn with malevolence.

**Boss Enemy: Malakar the Dark Sorcerer**

– **HP**: 60

– **AC**: 15

– **Spellcasting**: Can cast spells such as *Magic Missile*, *Fireball*, and *Hold Person*.

– **Actions**:

– **Dark Bolt**: Ranged spell attack, +5 to hit, 2d10 necrotic damage.

– **Summon Shadows**: Calls forth 2 Shadow minions to fight alongside him.

– **Arcane Barrier**: Reduces damage taken by half for one round.

As the battle ensues, the room fills with the crackling energy of magic and the clash of steel. Your party must work together, utilizing their unique skills and abilities to overcome Malakar and close the portal before the curse can spread. Will you be able to defeat the dark sorcerer and save Eldoria from his grasp? The fate of the city rests in your hands.