Tier 2 – The Veiled Sage’s Terror
**Tier 2 play**
In the vibrant realm of Eldoria, where magic flows like the rivers and the skies shimmer with the colors of the arcane, a troubling shadow has begun to loom over the peaceful village of Eldenwood. The villagers speak in hushed whispers of a mysterious figure known only as The Veiled Sage, a once-revered healer who has turned to dark magic in pursuit of forbidden knowledge. It is said that she possesses a powerful artifact known as the Tear of Lament, a gem that grants the user the ability to manipulate the very threads of life and death.
As the party arrives in Eldenwood, the air is thick with tension. The villagers are anxious, plagued by the mysterious disappearances of loved ones. Those who venture too close to the forest have not returned, and rumors swirl that the Veiled Sage is behind these sinister events. The local tavern, The Gilded Chalice, serves as the gathering place for the frightened townsfolk, and it is here that the party will begin their quest.
The tavern is dimly lit, with the scent of roasted meat and ale filling the air. The barkeep, a stout dwarf named Bronn, approaches the party with a furrowed brow. “You’re not from around here, are ye? We could use some brave souls to help us. The Veiled Sage has taken too many of our kin. We need someone to put an end to her reign of terror!”
### Quest Hooks:
1. **Investigation**: The party can gather information from the villagers about the last known locations of the missing people. Clues may lead them to an ancient ruin deep within the forest, rumored to be the Sage’s lair.
2. **Exploration**: The party must navigate the enchanted forest, filled with magical creatures and traps left by the Veiled Sage. They may encounter illusions, treants guarding the path, and pockets of corrupted wildlife that have fallen under the Sage’s influence.
3. **Confrontation**: Upon reaching the lair, the party must face the Veiled Sage and her minions. The final showdown will take place in a grand chamber adorned with dark crystals and flickering shadows, where the Tear of Lament pulses with a sinister energy.
### Boss Enemy: The Veiled Sage
– **HP**: 80
– **AC**: 15
– **Spellcasting**: The Veiled Sage is a powerful sorceress and can cast spells up to 3rd level.
– **Notable Spells**:
– *Hold Person*
– *Fear*
– *Counterspell*
– **Abilities**:
– **Life Drain**: The Sage can siphon life from a target, dealing 2d6 necrotic damage and healing herself for half the damage dealt.
– **Illusionary Terrain**: Once per encounter, she can create a 30-foot illusion that confuses the party, forcing them to make a Wisdom saving throw (DC 15) or become disoriented for one round.
### Conclusion:
Upon defeating the Veiled Sage, the party will uncover the truth behind her actions. The Tear of Lament is revealed to be a source of dark power, but also a key to restoring the missing villagers. The party must decide whether to destroy the artifact or attempt to purify it, offering a chance at redemption for the Sage’s corrupted soul.
As the sun sets over Eldenwood, the villagers gather to celebrate the party’s bravery, their hearts filled with hope once more. Will the adventurers leave a lasting legacy in this enchanted realm, or will the shadows of the past continue to haunt Eldoria? The choice is theirs.