Tier 2 – The Corrupted Forest Guardian
**Tier 2 play**
In the vibrant realm of Eldoria, where magic flows like the rivers and the skies shimmer with the hues of enchantment, a peculiar disturbance has caught the attention of the local populace. The once-peaceful town of Willowbrook, nestled between the Whispering Woods and the Crystal Lake, has been beset by a series of mysterious disappearances. Villagers whisper of shadowy figures lurking at the edge of the woods, and a sense of dread hangs heavy in the air.
As the sun sets, casting a golden glow over the landscape, the party finds themselves summoned to the town square by Mayor Elara, a stern yet kind-hearted woman with a deep concern for her people. She explains that several children have gone missing, last seen playing near the woods. Desperate for help, she offers a reward of 500 gold pieces for anyone who can uncover the truth and bring the children back safely.
The party’s investigation begins in the town, where they can gather information from the townsfolk. They learn of an ancient legend about the Forest Guardian, a once-benevolent spirit that has been corrupted by dark magic. This spirit, they say, has taken residence in a hidden glade deep within the Whispering Woods, where it is believed the missing children may be held captive.
As they venture into the woods, the air grows thick with enchantment, and the trees seem to whisper secrets. The path is fraught with challenges, including enchanted traps and mischievous forest sprites that test the party’s resolve and wit. The deeper they go, the more they feel the pull of the corrupted magic, leading them to the glade where the Forest Guardian resides.
In the heart of the glade, the party confronts the Guardian—a towering figure entwined with vines and dark energy, its eyes glowing with a malevolent light. The Guardian, now a twisted reflection of its former self, demands the party prove their worth by defeating its minions—shadowy creatures that emerge from the darkness to protect their master.
**Boss Enemy: The Corrupted Forest Guardian**
– **HP:** 120
– **AC:** 15
– **Attack:** Multiattack (2 attacks per round)
– **Shadow Strike:** +7 to hit, 2d8 + 4 necrotic damage
– **Corrupted Grasp:** +5 to hit, 3d6 + 3 poison damage (DC 15 Constitution save for half damage)
As the battle unfolds, the party must use their skills and teamwork to overcome the Guardian and its minions. Upon defeating the Guardian, the dark magic dissipates, revealing the children trapped in a magical slumber. With a touch of their magic or a simple spell, the party can awaken the children, who are overjoyed to return home.
Upon their return to Willowbrook, the grateful townsfolk celebrate the party’s bravery. Mayor Elara rewards them handsomely and offers them a choice of magical items from the town’s treasury, ensuring that their names will be sung in songs for generations to come.
This one-shot adventure is designed to challenge the party with both combat and exploration, allowing them to experience the rich tapestry of Eldoria while engaging in a heartwarming quest to save the innocent.