Tier 2 – The Curse of Eldoria (2)
**Tier 2 play**
In the vibrant, high-magic realm of Eldoria, where the skies shimmer with ethereal colors and the air hums with arcane energy, a sinister presence is stirring once more. The lush forests of Verenthia, known for their enchanted flora and fauna, have become tainted by dark sorcery. The once-peaceful villagers of Elden Hollow now live in fear, whispering tales of a shadowy figure who has returned to exact vengeance on those who wronged them.
Your party finds themselves in the heart of Elden Hollow, where the villagers have gathered in the town square, their faces drawn and weary. The mayor, a stout dwarf named Grimbold, approaches you, desperation etched on his brow. "Adventurers! You must help us! Two years ago, a powerful sorceress named Selene unleashed a curse upon our land, causing our crops to wither and our livestock to perish. We thought she had been defeated, but now her influence is creeping back, and we believe she is hiding in the Ruins of Eldarath, an ancient fortress deep within the Verenthian Woods."
As Grimbold speaks, a chill runs through the air, and the once-vibrant colors of the forest seem to dim. "You must find her and put an end to her dark magic once and for all. We will reward you handsomely, but more importantly, you will save our home."
The Ruins of Eldarath are said to be filled with remnants of ancient magic, twisted by Selene’s dark powers. The journey will not be easy; the forest is alive with danger, from enchanted beasts to treacherous terrain. Along the way, the party must navigate through the whispering trees, where illusions may lead them astray, and confront magical creatures that have been corrupted by the sorceress's lingering influence.
**Enemy Encounter: Corrupted Guardian**
As the party approaches the Ruins, they are confronted by a Corrupted Guardian, a twisted creature formed from the very essence of the forest. Once a noble protector of the woods, it now serves Selene, fueled by rage and sorrow.
**Corrupted Guardian Stats:**
– **Armor Class:** 14
– **Hit Points:** 85
– **Speed:** 30 ft.
– **Abilities:**
– **Multiattack:** The Guardian makes two attacks with its vine whip.
– **Vine Whip:** Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 15 ft., one target. Hit: 12 (2d6 + 5) slashing damage.
– **Entangling Roots (Recharge 5-6):** The Guardian can cause roots to sprout in a 20-foot radius, forcing all creatures in that area to make a DC 15 Strength saving throw or be restrained for 1 minute.
After defeating the Guardian, the party must delve deeper into the ruins, where they will encounter Selene, cloaked in shadows and surrounded by flickering, ghostly flames. Here, they will face the ultimate confrontation, where the fate of Elden Hollow hangs in the balance.
Selene, now a powerful and vengeful sorceress, will use her magic to manipulate the battlefield, hurling spells and summoning spectral minions to aid her. The party must work together, using their skills and wits to overcome her dark magic.
**Selene's Stats:**
– **Armor Class:** 16
– **Hit Points:** 120
– **Speed:** 30 ft.
– **Spells:**
– **Fireball (3rd level)**
– **Counterspell**
– **Hold Person**
– **Misty Step**
As the final battle commences, the air crackles with energy, and the fate of the village rests in the hands of the adventurers. Will they triumph and lift the curse, or will they fall to Selene's wrath? The choice is theirs to make.