Tier 2 – The Curse of Morgathine

**Tier 2 play**

In the enchanting realm of Eldoria, where magic flows like a river through the land, the sun sets over the bustling town of Eldenbridge, casting long shadows and bathing the cobblestone streets in hues of gold and crimson. The air is rich with the scent of roasted meats and sweet pastries, as townsfolk gather in the square to celebrate the annual Festival of Lights. Lanterns hang from every corner, flickering with ethereal flames that dance in the gentle evening breeze.

However, beneath the festive atmosphere lies a brewing darkness. Whispers have spread through the town of a mysterious illness plaguing the citizens, leaving many bedridden and desperate for aid. The local healer, Elara, a wise and compassionate woman, has been tirelessly searching for a cure, but her efforts have drawn the attention of something sinister.

Your party of adventurers is approached by Elara, her eyes filled with concern. "Please, brave souls," she implores, "I fear that this illness is not a natural affliction. It is said to be the work of an ancient curse, unleashed by the malevolent sorceress, Morgathine, who resides in the Darkwood Forest. Many have ventured into the woods to confront her, but none have returned. I beg you, can you uncover the source of this curse and put an end to her wickedness?"

The path to the Darkwood Forest is fraught with challenges. As the party journeys through the twisting trails, they encounter enchanted creatures, from mischievous fae to ethereal wisps guiding them deeper into the woods. The air grows thick with a palpable sense of dread, and the trees seem to whisper secrets long forgotten.

Upon reaching Morgathine's lair—a crumbling tower entwined with dark vines—the party must navigate through a series of magical defenses and illusions designed to protect the sorceress. The atmosphere is tense, filled with the crackle of magic and the distant echoes of tormented souls.

**Boss Encounter: Morgathine, the Cursed Sorceress**

– **HP**: 75

– **AC**: 15

– **Spellcasting**: 5th-level spellcaster (spell save DC 13)

– **Spells Known**:

– **Cantrips**: Fire Bolt, Mage Hand

– **1st Level**: Magic Missile, Shield

– **2nd Level**: Misty Step, Hold Person

– **3rd Level**: Counterspell, Fear

Morgathine is a formidable foe, wielding her dark magic to unleash devastating spells upon the party. Her goal is to maintain her hold over the town and the curse she has spread. As the adventurers engage her in battle, they will need to strategize and use the environment to their advantage, dodging her powerful spells while uncovering the truth behind her motives.

As the battle rages, the party discovers that Morgathine is not entirely evil; she is a tragic figure, cursed herself and seeking to reclaim her lost power. The adventurers have the option to either defeat her or find a way to lift her curse, potentially gaining a powerful ally in the process.

The fate of Eldenbridge hangs in the balance as the party fights not just for their lives, but for the lives of the townsfolk suffering from the curse. Will they emerge victorious and restore peace to Eldoria, or will they succumb to the darkness that looms over the land? The choice is theirs.