Tier 2 – The Frostbinder’s Curse

**Tier 2 play**

In the vibrant, high-magic realm of Eldoria, where the air crackles with arcane energy and the skies shimmer with the colors of enchantment, a dire situation has unfolded in the quaint village of Elden Hollow. As winter approaches, the villagers are anxious, for the Winter Fuel Payments—a vital lifeline for many elderly residents—are in jeopardy due to a mysterious backlog in processing. Rumors swirl that dark forces are at play, manipulating the situation to sow chaos and despair.

The party finds themselves in Elden Hollow, welcomed by the warm glow of hearths and the sweet scent of spiced cider wafting through the air. As they mingle with the villagers, they hear hushed whispers of an ominous figure known as the Frostbinder, a malevolent sorcerer who has taken refuge in the nearby Frostpeak Mountains. It is said that he has cast a chilling spell over the village, causing the bureaucratic system to falter and preventing the timely distribution of the Winter Fuel Payments.

The party's quest is clear: they must journey to the Frostpeak Mountains, confront the Frostbinder, and unravel the enchantment that has ensnared the village in a grip of icy despair. Along the way, they will face treacherous terrain, magical creatures, and the chilling winds that seem to whisper warnings of the dangers ahead.

As they ascend the mountains, the adventurers encounter a series of challenges:

1. **The Frost Wraiths**: Ethereal beings that guard the path, drawn from the souls of those who perished in the cold. They attack with icy tendrils that sap warmth and vitality.

– **Stats**:

– HP: 30

– AC: 12

– Attack: Frost Touch (Melee, +5 to hit, 2d6 cold damage)

2. **The Enchanted Snowdrifts**: Patches of snow that conceal treacherous pitfalls. Characters must make Dexterity saving throws to avoid falling into hidden chasms.

3. **The Crystal Cavern**: A stunning cave filled with shimmering ice formations that reflect light in mesmerizing patterns. Here, the party can find a hidden cache of magical items, including potions of warmth and scrolls of protection against cold.

Upon reaching the Frostbinder's lair, a grand ice palace carved into the mountainside, the adventurers must face the sorcerer himself. The Frostbinder, cloaked in robes of shimmering frost, wields the power of winter and commands the very blizzards that swirl around him.

**Boss Enemy: Frostbinder**

– **HP**: 80

– **AC**: 15

– **Abilities**:

– **Frostbolt**: Ranged spell attack, +7 to hit, 3d10 cold damage.

– **Ice Barrier**: Creates a barrier that absorbs 20 damage before breaking.

– **Blizzard**: A 30-foot radius centered on the Frostbinder, all enemies must make a Constitution saving throw (DC 15) or take 3d6 cold damage and be blinded until the end of their next turn.

As the party engages in battle, they must strategize to overcome the Frostbinder's powerful spells and minions, including summoned ice elementals that join the fray. With clever tactics and teamwork, they can defeat the sorcerer and dispel the enchantment, restoring order to Elden Hollow.

Upon their victory, the villagers will be eternally grateful, and the party will be celebrated as heroes. The Winter Fuel Payments will flow once more, ensuring warmth and comfort for the elderly residents as the first snowflakes of winter begin to fall.

The adventure concludes with a festive gathering in the village square, where laughter and joy fill the air, and the party members are honored with tokens of gratitude—a reminder of their bravery and the magic of community.