Tier 2 – The Stench of Eldoria

**Tier 2 play**

In the vibrant realm of Eldoria, where magic flows as freely as the rivers and the skies shimmer with the hues of enchantment, an unsettling disturbance has begun to plague the tranquil village of Willowbrook. The once fragrant air is now tainted with a noxious stench, driving villagers indoors and casting a pall over their daily lives. Whispers of foul gases rising from the nearby landfill have reached the ears of the adventurers, summoning them to uncover the truth behind this foul mystery.

As the party arrives in Willowbrook, they are greeted by concerned locals, their faces etched with worry. The village elder, an ancient gnome named Eldrin, gathers the adventurers in the town square. “Please, brave souls,” he implores, “the stench grows stronger each day, and the crops are wilting. We believe something sinister lurks beneath the landfill. We need your help to investigate and put an end to this blight!”

The party is directed to the outskirts of the village, where the landfill looms ominously. As they approach, the air thickens with the acrid smell of decay, and a shimmering haze dances above the refuse. The ground trembles slightly beneath their feet, hinting at something unnatural below.

**Investigation Component:**

The adventurers can search the area for clues. They may find:

1. **Mysterious Symbols:** Strange runes etched into the ground near the landfill, hinting at dark magic.

2. **Unusual Creatures:** Small, mutated creatures that have emerged from the landfill, attacking the party in defense of their territory.

3. **A Hidden Entrance:** A cave-like opening obscured by debris, leading into the depths of the landfill.

As they delve deeper, the party discovers that the landfill is not merely a dumping ground but a front for a nefarious operation run by a powerful alchemist, **Zaroth the Malodorous**. Zaroth has been using the refuse to concoct a potion that amplifies noxious gases, intending to unleash them upon the world to create chaos and suffering.

**Boss Encounter: Zaroth the Malodorous**

– **HP:** 80

– **AC:** 15

– **Attack:** Poisonous Cloud (Area of effect, DC 15 Constitution saving throw or take 3d8 poison damage and become poisoned for 1 minute)

– **Special Ability:** Noxious Aura (Any creature that starts its turn within 10 feet of Zaroth must succeed on a DC 15 Constitution saving throw or take 2d6 poison damage)

As the party confronts Zaroth in his lair, they must navigate through piles of refuse and avoid hazardous traps he has set. The battle will test their wits and teamwork, as they must not only defeat Zaroth but also find a way to neutralize the magical pollution he has created.

**Conclusion:**

Upon defeating Zaroth, the adventurers can use their skills to dispel the magical essence that lingers in the landfill, restoring the air quality to its former freshness. The grateful villagers will celebrate their heroes with a feast, offering them treasures and stories of their bravery.

This one-shot adventure promises to be filled with intrigue, danger, and the vibrant magic of Eldoria, perfect for a party seeking to make their mark in a world teetering on the brink of chaos!