*2nd tier (supernatural)*
**Challenge** 6 (2,300 XP); **DC** 16/14
**Area** Immediate (less than 1 hour)
A circle of standing stones was constructed eons ago to worship a dark god and its evil still permeates the surrounding lands. At night bats can be heard — but never seen — flapping overhead. A nagging dread pervades the area, and those with access to divine magic receive a premonition that great evil will spread if this curse is not lifted.
#### Bones
A [[03-Mechanics/6-Ability Scores/Medicine|Medicine]] or [[03-Mechanics/6-Ability Scores/Survival|Survival]] check finds the bones of several small animals scattered around the stones. Removing or burying these bones grants advantage on further checks against this exploration challenge.
#### Dreaded Curse
Attack rolls and saving throws made within a 600-foot radius of the standing stones have disadvantage. Anyone under the effects of *[protection from evil and good](https://a5e.tabletopbytheik.nl/compendium/spells/protection_from_evil_and_good)* is immune to the Dreaded Curse.
## Possible Solutions
A [[03-Mechanics/6-Ability Scores/Religion|Religion]] check and a ritual performed for a good-aligned god permanently breaks the curse, as does a casting of the *[hallow](https://a5e.tabletopbytheik.nl/compendium/spells/hallow)* spell. Alternatively, an [[03-Mechanics/6-Ability Scores/Athletics|Athletics]] check can topple the standing stones, breaking the circle and ending the curse — though not without a greater cost than some physical effort and sweat. Each adventurer within 100 feet of the stones makes a Constitution saving throw, taking 21 (6d6) force damage and suffering one level of fatigue on a failure.
**Critical Failure.** The cursed area expands and becomes more aggressive, dragging down the very limbs of travelers. While within 3 miles of the standings stones, every mile traveled requires 4 miles worth of travel time. The party discovers that 4 (1d4+1) Supply Dice from each adventurer has spoiled, and everyone suffers one level of strife.
**Failure.** When they leave the area, the party discovers that 3 (1d4+1) Supply Dice from each adventurer has spoiled.
**Success.** The curse is lifted, rendering the circle of standing stones creepy but harmless.
**Critical Success.** The adventurers receive a divine blessing, granting them an item or discovery relevant to their quest. Roll on the Boons and Discoveries table.