Tier 2 – The Curse of Malakar

**Tier 2 play**

In the vibrant realm of Eldoria, where the skies shimmer with hues of violet and gold, a heavy tension hangs in the air. Whispers of a dark sorcerer, known only as Malakar, have spread through the towns and villages, sending shivers down the spines of even the bravest adventurers. A curse has been placed, one that twists the very fabric of fate and love, drawing its dark tendrils into the hearts of the innocent.

The adventurers find themselves in the bustling city of Luminara, famous for its towering crystal spires that catch the light of the twin suns. However, the usual joy of the marketplace is dulled by the heavy atmosphere of despair. Townsfolk speak in hushed tones of a beloved healer, Elara, who has fallen gravely ill, her life slowly ebbing away due to the malevolent curse cast by Malakar. But why? What drove such a powerful figure to unleash this darkness?

As the party gathers in the local tavern, The Gilded Griffin, they overhear a frantic plea from a distraught villager. "Please, you must help! Elara's condition worsens by the hour. If we cannot find a way to lift the curse, she will perish!" The adventurers feel a pull, an urge to uncover the truth and put an end to Malakar’s vile machinations.

### Investigation Component:

The party can gather clues by speaking to townsfolk, searching Elara's home, or consulting the ancient tomes in the nearby library. They may discover that Malakar was once Elara's closest friend, twisted by jealousy and anger when she chose another over him. A hidden diary reveals the existence of a powerful artifact—a Heartstone—that can break the curse. However, it has been hidden away in the Cave of Echoes, guarded by malicious spirits drawn to the anguish of the cursed.

### Exploration Component:

The journey to the Cave of Echoes is treacherous. The party must navigate dense, enchanted forests where the trees whisper secrets, and streams run with shimmering, magical waters. They may encounter enchanted creatures, such as mischievous fae or protective forest spirits, who could either aid or hinder their progress based on their interactions.

### The Final Confrontation:

Upon reaching the cave, the adventurers must face Malakar himself. He stands amidst swirling shadows, clutching the Heartstone. His eyes burn with a feverish intensity, revealing the torment he experiences as he battles his own twisted emotions.

**Boss Enemy: Malakar**

– **HP:** 85

– **AC:** 15

– **Attack:** Shadow Bolt (1d10 + 5 necrotic damage)

– **Special Ability:** Curse of Despair – Target must make a DC 14 Wisdom saving throw or be frightened for 1 minute.

– **Legendary Action:** Malakar can use a legendary action to teleport up to 30 feet, causing shadows to lash out at one random party member (1d6 psychic damage).

As the battle rages, the adventurers must not only defeat Malakar but also find a way to appeal to the remnants of his former self. Perhaps they can convince him to relinquish the Heartstone, or perhaps they must wrest it from his unwilling hands through combat.

### Resolution:

Should the party succeed, they can return the Heartstone to Elara and lift the curse. The gratitude of the townsfolk will be boundless, and Elara might offer them a boon, perhaps a powerful healing potion or a blessing from the ancient spirits of the forest. However, if they fail, the darkness will continue to spread, and the echoes of despair will haunt Eldoria for generations to come.

Encourage your players to think creatively and use their skills to navigate this high-stakes adventure, blending combat, exploration, and moral dilemma in a setting rich with magic and intrigue.