Tier 2 – The Disruption of Eldoria A Quest for the Grove
**Tier 2 play**
In the heart of Eldoria, where the air shimmers with the vibrant essence of magic, a mysterious phenomenon has disrupted the once-harmonious balance of nature. The townsfolk of Willowbrook have reported vanishing flora and fauna; enchanted creatures that once frolicked in the verdant meadows have mysteriously disappeared, leaving only echoes of their laughter. Rumors whisper of a shadowy figure seen lurking at the edge of the Whispering Woods, a place steeped in ancient lore.
The party finds themselves in Willowbrook, where a local elder, Lady Thalia, implores their assistance. She explains that the disturbances seem to center around the ancient Grove of Whispering Spirits, a sacred site believed to maintain the natural order of Eldoria. The balance is faltering, and if the source of the disruption isn't discovered and dealt with soon, the entire region may descend into chaos.
The adventurers embark on a quest to investigate the Grove. As they navigate through the lush, overgrown wilderness, they are enveloped in the sweet scent of blooming wildflowers and the melodious chirping of birds, though a sense of foreboding lingers in the air. Glimmers of magic flicker at the corner of their eyes, hinting at the presence of enchanted beings, yet the woods seem eerily quiet.
Upon arriving at the Grove, the party encounters a series of magical barriers, each one pulsing with energy. They must solve riddles inscribed on ancient stones, each revealing a piece of the mystery behind the disappearance of the creatures. With each riddle solved, the natural magic begins to stir, but a menacing presence looms in the shadows.
Suddenly, a dark figure emerges—a corrupted Dryad named Sylvastra, once a protector of the Grove, now twisted by a dark enchantment. The adventurers must confront her, either battling for her redemption or subduing her to break the curse that has enveloped the Grove.
**Boss Enemy: Sylvastra, the Corrupted Dryad**
– **Hit Points:** 80
– **Armor Class:** 14
– **Attack:**
– **Thorn Whip:** +6 to hit, reach 30 ft., one target. Hit: 2d6 + 4 piercing damage, and the target is pulled 10 ft. closer.
– **Nature's Grasp (Recharge 5-6):** Each creature of her choice within a 30 ft. radius must succeed on a DC 15 Strength saving throw or take 3d8 bludgeoning damage and be restrained until the end of their next turn.
– **Legendary Actions:** Sylvastra can take one legendary action per round, choosing from the options below:
– **Whispering Woods:** Create an illusory double of herself, imposing disadvantage on the next attack against her.
– **Entangle:** Cast the spell entangle as a bonus action.
As the battle ensues, the adventurers must decide whether to defeat Sylvastra or seek a way to purify her spirit. If they succeed in breaking her curse, she can guide them to the essence of the Grove, restoring balance to Willowbrook and its surroundings.
With the fate of the land hanging in the balance, the party’s choices will shape the future of Eldoria, leading to either rejuvenation or further decay. Will they succeed in saving the Grove and its guardian, or will darkness engulf the land? The adventure awaits!