Tier 2 – The Quest to Save the Elder Tree

**Tier 2 play**

As your party gathers around the shimmering turquoise lake, the sun glints off the water, casting dancing reflections that mimic the vibrant colors of the flowers blooming along the shore. The air is filled with the sweet scent of wild blossoms, and the soft rustle of leaves creates a calming melody. However, tranquility is shattered when a small chipmunk, standing upright, approaches with an urgency that belies its size.

"You’re late. The council is waiting," it whispers in a surprisingly articulate voice, its tiny paws twitching with impatience. The chipmunk's eyes gleam with a mixture of concern and determination, and it gestures for you to follow.

As you venture deeper into the lush forest surrounding the lake, the trees grow denser, their trunks thick and gnarled, cloaked in vibrant green moss. The path ahead twists and turns, leading you to a clearing where a gathering of woodland creatures awaits. Squirrels, rabbits, and even a few birds perch atop branches, all eyes fixed on a grand oak tree at the center. Its bark is etched with ancient runes that pulse with a soft, golden light.

The chipmunk hops up onto a low branch, addressing the assembly. "Brave adventurers, we have summoned you here for a dire mission. A dark force has invaded our realm, corrupting the heart of the forest. The Elder Tree has fallen ill, and if we do not act swiftly, our home will be lost."

As the chipmunk explains, you feel the weight of the task ahead. The Elder Tree, a colossal entity that has stood for centuries, is now wilting, its leaves turning a sickly shade of brown. The source of this corruption lies in the depths of the forest, guarded by a malevolent creature known as the Shadow Warden.

**The Shadow Warden**

– **Type:** Fey

– **Armor Class:** 15

– **Hit Points:** 85

– **Speed:** 30 ft.

– **Abilities:**

– **Strength:** 14 (+2)

– **Dexterity:** 18 (+4)

– **Constitution:** 16 (+3)

– **Intelligence:** 12 (+1)

– **Wisdom:** 15 (+2)

– **Charisma:** 10 (+0)

– **Actions:**

– **Shadow Strike:** +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 14 (2d8 + 4) necrotic damage.

– **Dark Enchantment:** The Shadow Warden can cast *Fear* at will (DC 15).

– **Fey Step (Recharge 5-6):** Teleport up to 30 feet to an unoccupied space that you can see.

The woodland creatures provide you with a map, detailing the location of the Shadow Warden’s lair—a hidden grove shrouded in darkness, where the very air feels thick with malevolence. As you prepare to embark on this quest, the chipmunk gives you a small token, a charm crafted from a fallen leaf and a drop of dew, said to protect against dark magic.

With resolve, your party sets forth, navigating through the towering trees and vibrant flora, their hearts beating in unison with the rhythm of the forest. As you journey deeper, the sounds of nature give way to an eerie silence, and shadows begin to stretch unnaturally around you.

Will your party be able to confront the Shadow Warden, cleanse the corruption, and restore the Elder Tree to its former glory? The fate of the forest rests in your hands.