Tier 2 – The Shadows of Willowbrook (4)
**Tier 2 play**
In the vibrant realm of Eldoria, where golden sunlight filters through emerald leaves and whimsical creatures roam the enchanted forests, a peculiar tale unfolds. The air is thick with the scent of blooming nightflowers, their phosphorescent petals casting a soft glow. Your party finds themselves in the quaint village of Willowbrook, a place known for its serene beauty and the haunting melodies of its nightingale choirs.
However, peace is a fleeting dream as whispers of a dark presence have begun to circulate. The villagers speak in hushed tones of a malevolent spirit known as the Paralysis Demon, who has terrorized a specific villager, Alaric, for years. This night, however, is different; Alaric is missing, leaving behind only a cryptic note that reads, "I have gone to find my freedom. Do not follow me into the void."
As the party gathers around a flickering lantern at the village tavern, they are approached by Mira, the village healer. Her eyes are wide with concern, and her voice trembles as she explains the urgency of the situation. "The demon has grown bolder, and I fear it has taken Alaric to its lair in the Shadow Grove. If we do not act swiftly, it may claim him forever."
The Shadow Grove is a foreboding place, where the trees twist unnaturally and shadows dance with a life of their own. As the party ventures into the grove, they must navigate through a maze of gnarled roots and eerie whispers that seem to call their names. Every rustle of leaves and flicker of shadows heightens the tension, and a sense of unease settles within their hearts.
As they delve deeper, the party encounters remnants of Alaric’s struggles: a torn cloak caught on a branch, an overturned lantern, and the haunting echoes of his voice pleading for help. Yet, the deeper they go, the more they realize they are not alone. The Paralysis Demon, a ghastly figure shrouded in swirling shadows, emerges from the darkness, its eyes glowing with an otherworldly hunger.
**Boss Enemy: Paralysis Demon**
– **HP:** 50
– **AC:** 15
– **Attack:** Shadow Grasp (Melee, +6 to hit, 1d8 + 4 necrotic damage, and target must succeed on a DC 13 Constitution saving throw or become paralyzed for 1 minute)
– **Abilities:**
– **Ethereal Shift:** Once per encounter, the demon can phase into the ethereal plane, becoming immune to all damage for one turn.
– **Whispers of Dread:** Each round, the demon can choose one party member to target. That member must make a DC 12 Wisdom saving throw or experience disadvantage on their next attack roll.
As the conflict unfolds, the party must utilize their wits and skills, perhaps discovering that the key to weakening the demon lies in the artifacts Alaric once cherished, scattered throughout the grove. Will they find the strength to confront this darkness and save Alaric from a fate worse than death?
As the final confrontation draws near, echoes of Alaric's plight resonate through the grove. The party must face their fears and the shadows that threaten to consume them. Each decision could lead to either salvation or despair, setting the stage for a memorable adventure in the heart of Eldoria.