Tier 2 – The Shadows of Eldoria A Quest for Eldenwood

**Tier 2 play**

In the heart of the mystical realm of Eldoria, where the air thrums with the resonance of powerful magic, a dark cloud looms over the once-peaceful village of Eldenwood. Nestled between ancient, towering trees and vibrant wildflowers, Eldenwood has thrived for centuries, its people living in harmony with the land. However, the skies above have turned ominous, shattered by the whirring sound of unnatural drones—mechanical creatures that seem to defy the laws of nature.

The local council, in a desperate plea for help, has summoned a group of brave adventurers to investigate the source of these malevolent devices. Rumors whisper of a rogue wizard, once a respected member of the Arcane Council, who has taken to the shadows, using forbidden magic to create these drones. His lair is said to be hidden deep within the Forest of Whispers, a place where the trees themselves seem to murmur secrets, and the very ground pulses with arcane energy.

As the party sets out, they are greeted by the sweet scent of blooming lilacs mingled with the damp earth of the forest floor. Sunbeams filter through the dense canopy, casting dappled shadows that dance around them. The sounds of nature fill the air, yet an unsettling tension lingers, as if the forest is aware of their quest and is holding its breath.

Upon entering the Forest of Whispers, the adventurers must navigate through a series of challenges. They encounter enchanted creatures—faeries that weave illusions, ethereal wisps that guide (or mislead) travelers, and ancient treants that guard the path. Each encounter provides opportunities for combat, negotiation, or clever problem-solving, allowing the adventurers to utilize their skills and creativity.

As they delve deeper, they find remnants of the wizard’s experiments: shattered drones, glowing runes, and even a few captured villagers who have become unwitting pawns in his scheme. The party must decide whether to free these villagers or press on to confront the mastermind behind the chaos.

At last, they arrive at the wizard’s lair—a crumbling tower entwined with vines and bathed in an eerie blue light. Inside, they discover the rogue wizard, Alaric, surrounded by a swirling mass of mechanical drones, actively channeling his magic into them. Alaric, with wild hair and eyes that gleam with madness, turns to face the intruders, a manic grin spreading across his face.

**Boss Enemy: Alaric the Rogue Wizard**

– **HP:** 70

– **AC:** 15

– **Spellcasting:** Alaric can cast spells up to 5th level. His primary spells include:

– **Magic Missile**

– **Fireball**

– **Invisibility**

– **Summon Construct** (to control drones)

– **Special Ability:** **Arcane Overload**: Once per encounter, Alaric can unleash a wave of chaotic magic, dealing 4d6 force damage to all creatures within 15 feet of him.

As the adventurers engage in combat, they must also contend with the drones that swirl around the room, attacking with quick, slicing movements. The players can use their environment to their advantage, knocking over bookshelves or causing magical artifacts to explode, creating a dynamic battlefield.

The outcome of this confrontation will determine the fate of Eldenwood. If they defeat Alaric, the villagers will be freed, and the skies will return to their serene blue. Should they fail, the drones will continue to haunt the village, plunging it into darkness.

As the session concludes, the adventurers will leave a mark on Eldoria, their deeds echoing through the ages, whether in triumph or tragedy. Encourage them to reflect on their choices, the paths they took, and the bonds they forged, setting the stage for future adventures in this high magic, high fantasy world.