Tier 2 – The Treasure of Silvergrove

**Tier 2 play**

In the vibrant realm of Eldoria, where magic weaves through the very fabric of existence, a peculiar event has stirred the interest of adventurers across the land. The quaint village of Silvergrove, nestled between the Whispering Woods and the Crystal Lake, has recently unearthed a hoard of ancient coins during construction work on a new tavern. These coins, numbering 1,368 in total, are believed to date back to the Iron Age and Roman times, and their value is estimated to exceed £100,000. However, the excitement surrounding this discovery has attracted more than just curious villagers.

As the sun sets, casting a golden hue over Silvergrove, the party arrives to find the village abuzz with activity. Townsfolk gather around the newly unearthed treasure, their eyes wide with wonder and greed. Yet, amidst the excitement, a shadow looms. Whispers of a notorious bandit lord, known as Vespera the Shadowed, have reached the ears of the villagers. Vespera seeks to claim the treasure for herself, and she is not alone. Her band of mercenaries, skilled in stealth and deception, is already on the move.

### Adventure Hook

The party is approached by the village elder, a wise and weathered woman named Elara. She pleads for their help, explaining that Vespera plans to raid the village under the cover of night. Elara offers the party a reward of 500 gold pieces and the gratitude of the villagers if they can protect the coins and drive off the bandits.

### Exploration Component

The party can explore the village, gathering information about Vespera's plans. They may speak with the townsfolk, who can provide clues about the bandit’s movements and weaknesses. The tavern, still under construction, offers a vantage point for the party to set up defenses or ambushes. They might also discover hidden passages beneath the tavern that lead to the old catacombs, rumored to be filled with traps and treasures from a bygone era.

### Investigation Component

As night falls, the party must investigate the area around the village. They can scout the surrounding woods, looking for signs of Vespera’s mercenaries. A successful perception check might reveal hidden camps or tracks leading away from the village. The party can also set up magical wards or traps to protect the coins, using their skills to fortify the tavern and prepare for the impending attack.

### Encounter: Vespera the Shadowed

When the moon reaches its zenith, Vespera and her bandits strike. The encounter begins with a surprise attack, and the party must defend the treasure against waves of mercenaries.

**Vespera the Shadowed**

– **Armor Class:** 15

– **Hit Points:** 85

– **Speed:** 30 ft.

– **Attack:** Shadow Blade (Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 14 (2d8 + 5) psychic damage.)

– **Special Ability:** Cloak of Shadows (Once per encounter, Vespera can become invisible until the start of her next turn.)

### Conclusion

If the party successfully defends the coins, they will earn the gratitude of Silvergrove and the promised reward. However, if Vespera escapes, she vows to return, leaving the door open for future adventures. The villagers may also share tales of the catacombs, hinting at further treasures and dangers that lie beneath the surface, inviting the party to delve deeper into the mysteries of Eldoria.

As the night fades and dawn breaks over Silvergrove, the party will have forged their legacy in this enchanted land, their names whispered in awe by the villagers who witnessed their bravery.