Tier 2 – Shadows of Eldoria (2)
**Tier 2 play**
In the heart of the vibrant city of Eldoria, where magic flows as freely as the rivers, whispers of a grave injustice have begun to spread like wildfire. The Council of Arcane Justice, a powerful assembly of magic-wielders, has summoned your party to investigate the sudden rise of dark magic in the realm. Rumors suggest that a once-revered sorcerer, Elowen Nightshade, has turned to forbidden practices, using her powers for nefarious purposes.
As you gather in the Council Chamber, the air crackles with tension. The room is adorned with shimmering tapestries depicting ancient battles and magical feats, the scent of incense wafting through the air. A stern-looking councilor, clad in robes that shimmer like starlight, addresses you. “You must uncover the truth behind Elowen’s actions. Is she truly a villain, or is there something more sinister at play?”
Your journey begins in the Enchanted Forest, a sprawling expanse filled with towering trees that seem to whisper secrets. The forest is alive with the sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves, but an unsettling chill hangs in the air. As you venture deeper, the sunlight dims, and shadows dance ominously.
Suddenly, you stumble upon a clearing where the remnants of a dark ritual lay scattered. Charred earth, strange sigils etched into the ground, and remnants of magical artifacts hint at a powerful force at work. As you investigate, a group of shadowy figures emerges from the trees—cultists devoted to Elowen, determined to protect their mistress at all costs.
**Enemy Encounter: Shadow Cultists**
– **Number of Cultists:** 4
– **HP:** 20 each
– **AC:** 12
– **Attacks:**
– **Shadow Bolt:** Ranged spell attack, +5 to hit, 1d8 necrotic damage.
– **Melee Attack:** +4 to hit, 1d6 + 2 slashing damage.
After defeating the cultists, you discover a hidden passage leading to Elowen’s lair. The air grows thick with dark energy as you approach a grand chamber illuminated by flickering blue flames. At its center stands Elowen Nightshade, her eyes glowing with arcane power, surrounded by swirling shadows.
**Boss Encounter: Elowen Nightshade**
– **HP:** 70
– **AC:** 15
– **Attacks:**
– **Dark Magic Blast:** Ranged spell attack, +7 to hit, 3d10 necrotic damage.
– **Shadow Step:** Can teleport up to 30 feet to an unoccupied space she can see.
– **Legendary Actions:**
– **Shadow Surge:** Once per turn, Elowen can unleash a wave of shadow, forcing all players within 10 feet to make a DC 15 Dexterity saving throw or take 2d6 necrotic damage.
As the battle ensues, Elowen reveals her true motivation: she was safeguarding the realm from a greater evil that sought to rise from the shadows. The party must decide whether to fight her or seek a truce, uncovering the deeper layers of the mystery behind her dark magic.
The fate of Eldoria hangs in the balance, and your choices will determine whether light or darkness prevails. Will you expose the truth and restore balance, or will you succumb to the shadows? The adventure awaits!