Tier 2 – The Mystery of the Starstone Pendant

**Tier 2 play**

Welcome, brave adventurers, to the vibrant and ever-changing realm of Eldoria! In this land of high magic and ancient lore, where the sun bathes the lush landscapes in golden hues and the air crackles with the whispers of long-forgotten spells, your journey begins in the quaint village of Eldenwood.

The villagers have been plagued by a series of mysterious disappearances. Every full moon, a villager vanishes without a trace, leaving behind only a faint shimmer of ethereal light and a sense of deep unease. Eldenwood is a charming place, with its cobblestone streets, vibrant marketplaces, and friendly taverns, but the air is thick with worry and the dark shadow of an unknown threat.

Your quest is to uncover the mystery behind these vanishings and confront the malevolent force responsible. The village elder, a wise woman named Elara, has called upon you for help. She believes that these disappearances are linked to an ancient artifact known as the Starstone Pendant, thought to possess incredible power. According to legend, the pendant was lost long ago in the ruins of an old temple deep within the Eldenwood Forest, a place where reality bends and time flows differently.

As you venture into the forest, it becomes a character in its own right—thick with towering trees whose leaves shimmer in shades of emerald and gold. The air is alive with the sounds of chittering creatures, and the scent of damp earth and blooming wildflowers envelops you. Make sure to keep your senses sharp, for eyes may be watching from the shadows.

Your first challenge will come as you delve deeper into the forest. A band of mischievous fae, known for their tricks and illusions, sees your party as intruders. They will test your resolve with riddles and charm, seeking to lead you astray. The fae will demand you answer three riddles correctly to proceed, threatening to enchant you if you fail.

Once you have outsmarted the fae and gained passage, the path will lead to the ruins of the temple, where time stands still, and echoes of ancient magic linger. The air hums with energy as you approach the crumbling stone structure, vines curling around the remnants of what was once a magnificent altar.

Here, you will face the true enemy: a corrupted spirit named Aranthor, bound to the Starstone Pendant, which he was once its guardian. Aranthor's sorrow has twisted him into a malevolent force, seeking to expand his despair by drawing in the souls of the villagers.

**Boss Enemy: Aranthor, the Corrupted Guardian**

– **AC**: 15

– **HP**: 72

– **Attack**: Ethereal Whirl (2d6 + 4 psychic damage, makes two attacks per turn)

– **Special Ability**: Soul Drain (once per encounter, drains 1d4 HP from a target and heals himself by that amount)

– **Legendary Actions**: Shadow Step (teleport up to 30 feet to an unoccupied space in dim light or darkness)

As your party faces Aranthor in a climactic battle, the stakes are high. The fate of Eldenwood hangs in the balance, and only through clever tactics, teamwork, and a hint of magic can you hope to free the once-noble spirit and restore peace to the village.

Will you unravel the mystery and save the villagers, or will you become just another whisper in the wind of Eldoria? The adventure awaits!