Tier 2 – The Shadows of Saltmarsh
**Tier 2 play**
In the vibrant realm of Eldoria, where the skies shimmer with iridescent colors and magic flows like a river through the veins of the land, an urgent call for heroes has echoed throughout the realm. The coastal town of Saltmarsh, renowned for its stunning beaches and bustling markets, has recently fallen under a shadow of despair. A mysterious fog has rolled in from the sea, thickening the air and suffocating the sunlight. The townsfolk whisper of a dark power that has awakened within the depths of the Abyssal Sea, and they plead for brave adventurers to uncover the truth behind this uncanny phenomenon.
As your party steps into Saltmarsh, the salty breeze is tainted with an unsettling aroma of decay. The townspeople are visibly shaken, their eyes darting anxiously between the waves and the distant cliffs. An elder approaches you, her voice trembling as she recounts the tales of the ancient Sea Witch, a long-banished sorceress who once ruled the tides with an iron grip. Legends speak of her power to summon storms and command sea creatures, but her presence has not been felt for centuries—until now.
Your quest begins with gathering information. The townsfolk can provide valuable clues, some sharing hushed stories of strange lights flickering in the water at night, while others speak of fishermen disappearing without a trace. Seek out the local tavern, The Salty Seagull, where you can overhear gossip and perhaps engage in a game of chance with some seasoned sailors. Each conversation may lead you closer to the truth.
As the sun sets, the fog thickens, plunging the town into an eerie twilight. Your exploration will lead you to the rocky cliffs overlooking the sea, where you discover a hidden cave entrance adorned with bioluminescent algae. The air is damp and cool, and the sound of dripping water echoes ominously. Dare you enter?
Inside the cave, you will encounter the Sea Witch’s minions—malevolent sea creatures twisted by dark magic. Use rolls to determine your encounters: slippery merrow, treacherous sea hag, and eerie water elementals lurk in the shadows, each with their own unique abilities to challenge your party.
**Boss Enemy: The Sea Witch**
– **HP:** 150
– **AC:** 15
– **Spellcasting:** Can cast spells such as *Hold Person*, *Fog Cloud*, and *Lightning Bolt*.
– **Special Ability:** *Tidal Wave* – Once per encounter, the Sea Witch can summon a wave that forces all players to make a Dexterity saving throw. Failures take 3d10 damage and are knocked prone.
As your party confronts the Sea Witch, the atmosphere crackles with tension and magic. Will you break her dark influence over Saltmarsh and bring peace back to the town, or will her power consume you? The fate of the realm lies in your hands!