Tier 2 – The Enigmatic Child of Willowbrook
**Tier 2 play**
In the vibrant realm of Eldoria, where magic flows like rivers and the skies shimmer with the hues of enchantment, a peculiar event has drawn the attention of adventurers far and wide. The once-peaceful village of Willowbrook has been shrouded in an eerie silence, its lively streets now echoing with whispers of a strange phenomenon. The villagers speak of a child who never grew up, a boy named Elian, who possesses an uncanny ability to communicate with the divine.
Years ago, Elian was a bright spark of joy, a friend to many, including a brave adventurer who now finds themselves drawn back to the village. However, something has changed. Elian, now a child in form but wise beyond his years, has inadvertently angered the warring gods of the realm. In a moment of defiance, he told them to "shaddap and go play somewhere else," and instead of punishment, the gods responded with an apology that shook the very foundations of reality.
As the adventurers arrive in Willowbrook, they are greeted by a scene of chaos. The sky above the village is a swirling mass of colors, with ethereal beings flickering in and out of existence. The villagers are in a state of panic, fearing that the gods' wrath may soon descend upon them. The adventurers must uncover the truth behind Elian's strange powers and the gods' unexpected response.
### Adventure Outline:
1. **Investigate the Village:**
– The party begins by speaking with the villagers, gathering information about Elian and the recent events. They learn that Elian has been seen near the ancient Willow Tree, a sacred site believed to be a bridge between the mortal realm and the divine.
2. **Explore the Sacred Grove:**
– The adventurers venture into the grove surrounding the Willow Tree, where they encounter magical creatures and illusions. The air is thick with the scent of blooming flowers and the sound of rustling leaves. Here, they must solve puzzles and navigate through enchanted barriers to reach Elian.
3. **Confront the Divine:**
– Upon reaching Elian, the party discovers that he is caught in a tug-of-war between the gods, who are both intrigued and threatened by his power. The adventurers must choose to either protect Elian or convince the gods to leave him be. This decision will shape the outcome of the adventure.
4. **The Boss Encounter:**
– If the party chooses to protect Elian, they will face a manifestation of divine wrath known as the **Celestial Warden**. This being is a towering figure of light and shadow, wielding celestial energy.
**Celestial Warden Stats:**
– **Armor Class:** 15
– **Hit Points:** 120
– **Speed:** 30 ft.
– **Attacks:**
– **Radiant Strike:** +8 to hit, 2d10 + 5 radiant damage.
– **Divine Shield (Recharge 5-6):** Grants itself +2 AC for one round and reflects half of the damage dealt back to the attacker.
5. **Resolution:**
– Depending on the party's choices and actions, they may either save Elian, allowing him to grow and harness his powers responsibly, or they may inadvertently unleash chaos upon the realm, leading to further adventures.
### Conclusion:
As the adventurers leave Willowbrook, the sky begins to clear, and the villagers express their gratitude. Elian, now free from the gods' influence, promises to use his powers for good, hinting at future adventures that await. The party's choices will echo through the realm, setting the stage for their next journey in the high magic, high fantasy world of Eldoria.