Tier 2 – The Shadows of Glimmerwood

**Tier 2 play**

In the shimmering realm of Eldoria, where magic weaves through the air like a gentle breeze, the village of Glimmerwood stands at the edge of the Whispering Forest. This quaint settlement, known for its vibrant flora and enchanting wildlife, has been plagued by a series of mysterious disappearances. Villagers whisper of shadowy figures lurking in the woods, and the town's beloved elder, Elara, has vanished without a trace.

Your adventure begins in the bustling town square, where the scent of freshly baked bread mingles with the sweet aroma of blooming flowers. The townsfolk, anxious and fearful, gather around a flickering bonfire, sharing stories and speculating about the strange occurrences. As the sun sets, casting an orange glow over the cobblestone streets, a sense of urgency fills the air.

The players are approached by Alden, the village blacksmith, whose hands are calloused yet gentle. "Please, brave souls," he implores, his voice shaky. "We need your help! Elara was last seen walking towards the Whispering Forest. If you can find her and uncover the truth behind these shadows, I will reward you handsomely."

As the party ventures into the Whispering Forest, they are greeted by the sounds of rustling leaves and distant animal calls. The trees tower above, their branches intertwining like fingers, creating a canopy that filters the moonlight. The forest feels alive, and the players must navigate through an array of challenges: treacherous terrain, magical illusions, and enchanted creatures that may either aid or hinder their progress.

Deeper in the woods, they stumble upon a clearing where the air crackles with energy. A circle of ancient stones stands in the center, glowing with an eerie blue light. Here, the players discover Elara, ensnared by a malevolent force known as the Shadow Wraith. This creature, a manifestation of dark magic, seeks to absorb the life force of the villagers to increase its own power.

**Boss Enemy: Shadow Wraith**

– **HP:** 80

– **AC:** 15

– **Attack:** Shadow Strike (Melee, +6 to hit, 2d8 necrotic damage)

– **Special Ability:** Life Drain (Once per encounter, the Wraith can attempt to drain 20 HP from a player, healing itself for half the amount drained.)

– **Weakness:** Radiant damage deals double damage to the Shadow Wraith.

The players must use their wits and skills to defeat the Shadow Wraith, freeing Elara and restoring peace to Glimmerwood. As they engage in battle, the forest around them reacts to the ebb and flow of magic, the stones pulsing in rhythm with the conflict.

Once the Wraith is vanquished, light floods the clearing, and Elara awakens, grateful for their bravery. She reveals that the Wraith was drawn to the village by an ancient artifact hidden within the forest—an artifact that must be safeguarded to prevent future darkness from encroaching upon their world.

With Elara's guidance, the players can choose to explore further, uncovering the secrets of the artifact, or return to Glimmerwood as heroes, celebrated by the villagers for their courage and skill.

As they make their way back, the stars twinkle brightly above, a reminder that in this high-magic, high-fantasy world, adventure awaits those brave enough to seek it.