Tier 2 – The Rediscovery of Santa Claus in Eldoria

**Tier 2 play**

In the enchanting realm of Eldoria, where the skies shimmer with hues of violet and gold, a peculiar phenomenon has captured the attention of the populace. Whispers of a long-forgotten figure have resurfaced, igniting hope and curiosity among the citizens. The legendary Santa Claus, once a beloved icon of joy and generosity, has been rediscovered by the elves of the Silverwood Forest. However, the world now regards him as nothing more than a myth, a tale spun to entertain children during the winter solstice.

Your party finds themselves in the quaint village of Frosthaven, nestled at the foot of the Frostpeak Mountains. The air is crisp, and the scent of pine mingles with the sweet aroma of baked goods wafting from the local bakery. As the townsfolk bustle about, preparing for the upcoming Winter Festival, a sense of urgency fills the air. The elves have sent word that Santa needs help to reclaim his rightful place in the hearts of the people and to restore the magic of giving that has waned over the years.

The party is approached by Elara, a wise and graceful elven envoy, who explains the dire situation. "Santa's magic is fading," she says, her emerald eyes reflecting the flickering lantern light. "We need to gather the lost artifacts of joy scattered throughout the realm. Only then can we reignite the spirit of the season and prove to the world that he is real."

The quest begins with the party receiving a map leading to three key locations where these artifacts are rumored to be hidden: the Glimmering Caverns, the Whispering Woods, and the Frostbitten Ruins. Each location presents its own challenges and mysteries to unravel.

**Glimmering Caverns**: As the party descends into the caverns, they are greeted by walls that sparkle like stars, illuminated by bioluminescent fungi. However, they soon discover that the caverns are home to mischievous ice sprites who guard the first artifact—a crystal snowflake. To retrieve it, the party must engage in a series of riddles and games, showcasing their wit and teamwork.

**Whispering Woods**: In the heart of the Whispering Woods, the trees seem to murmur secrets. Here, the party encounters a band of playful faeries who have taken the second artifact—a jingle bell—believing it to be a toy. To earn their trust and retrieve the bell, the party must participate in a festive dance, impressing the faeries with their agility and charm.

**Frostbitten Ruins**: The final artifact, a golden ornament, lies within the Frostbitten Ruins, an ancient temple now overrun by frost golems. The party must navigate through traps and solve puzzles to reach the inner sanctum. Here, they face the Frost Golem Guardian, a formidable foe with the following stats:

– **Frost Golem Guardian**

– **Armor Class**: 15

– **Hit Points**: 85

– **Speed**: 30 ft.

– **Attacks**:

– Slam: +8 to hit, 2d10 + 4 bludgeoning damage

– Frost Breath (Recharge 5-6): 30 ft. cone, DC 15 Constitution saving throw, 4d6 cold damage on a failed save, half on a success.

Once the party collects all three artifacts, they return to Frosthaven, where a grand celebration awaits. As they present the artifacts to Elara, the magic of the season begins to swirl around them, and Santa Claus himself appears, his laughter echoing through the air. The villagers, once skeptical, now embrace the spirit of joy and giving, and the party is hailed as heroes.

In the end, the party learns that belief and kindness are the true magic that can change the world, and they leave Frosthaven with hearts full of warmth and a sense of accomplishment, knowing they played a part in restoring hope to Eldoria.