Tier 2 – The Shadow of the Tax Collector

**Tier 2 play**

Welcome to the vibrant realm of Eldoria, a land where magic flows like a river and the skies shimmer with the colors of enchantment. The party finds themselves in the bustling city of Verenthia, a hub of trade and intrigue. As the sun sets, casting a golden hue over cobblestone streets, whispers of a growing darkness begin to circulate among the townsfolk.

Rumors tell of a shadowy figure known as the Tax Collector, a rogue sorcerer who has been siphoning wealth from the citizens under the guise of a tax increase. His nefarious scheme is not just a matter of coins; it has stirred unrest and fear among the people, who are now desperate for relief. The local tavern, The Gilded Griffin, buzzes with anxious patrons, all speaking of the mysterious disappearances of those who dared to question the Collector’s authority.

As the party gathers around a flickering candlelight in the tavern, they overhear a hushed conversation between two cloaked figures. They speak of a hidden ledger containing the true extent of the Collector’s crimes—a ledger that could expose his wicked dealings and restore peace to Verenthia. However, the ledger is said to be kept in a fortified mansion on the outskirts of town, guarded by magical wards and fierce creatures bound to the Collector’s will.

### Adventure Hook:

The party is approached by a desperate merchant, Elara, who pleads for their help. She offers a handsome reward for retrieving the ledger and promises to provide them with vital information about the Collector’s defenses. Elara reveals that the mansion is surrounded by a thick, enchanted fog that confuses travelers, and only those with a keen sense of direction can navigate it.

### Exploration Component:

To reach the mansion, the party must traverse the foggy outskirts, facing illusions and magical creatures that try to lead them astray. They can encounter:

– **Will-o'-Wisps**: Mischievous spirits that lure adventurers into traps.

– **Phantom Hounds**: Ethereal beasts that sniff out intruders, requiring stealth or clever distractions to evade.

As they navigate the fog, the party can also discover clues about the Collector’s past and the source of his power, hinting at a deeper conspiracy that could threaten the entire realm.

### Confrontation:

Upon reaching the mansion, the party finds it adorned with dark magic. They must bypass enchanted traps and confront the Collector himself.

#### Boss Enemy: The Tax Collector

– **HP**: 85

– **AC**: 15

– **Spellcasting**:

– *Cantrips*: Mage Hand, Minor Illusion

– *1st Level (3 slots)*: Magic Missile, Shield

– *2nd Level (2 slots)*: Misty Step, Hold Person

– **Special Ability**: *Taxation's Grip* – Once per encounter, the Collector can drain 1d6 gold from each player within 30 feet, dealing psychic damage equal to the gold lost.

### Conclusion:

If the party can defeat the Tax Collector and retrieve the ledger, they will not only gain the gratitude of Verenthia’s citizens but also uncover a larger plot that threatens the balance of magic in Eldoria. The ledger reveals connections to powerful factions, setting the stage for future adventures.

Will they rise to the challenge and restore hope to the city, or will the shadows of greed and power consume them? The fate of Verenthia lies in their hands!