Tier 2 – The Shadow Over Eldenwood (1)
**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 dark shadow has begun to loom over the peaceful town of Eldenwood. The townsfolk, once filled with laughter and joy, now whisper of a sinister presence that has emerged from the depths of the Whispering Woods. Rumors speak of a malevolent sorcerer named Malakar, who has been abducting villagers under the cover of night, using their life force to fuel his dark rituals.
As the sun sets, casting a golden glow over the cobblestone streets, the party finds themselves in the bustling tavern known as The Gilded Griffin. The air is thick with the scent of roasted meats and the sound of laughter, but an unsettling tension hangs in the atmosphere. An elderly woman, her face lined with worry, approaches the party. Her name is Elara, the town's healer, and she pleads for their help.
"Please, brave adventurers," she implores, her voice trembling. "My grandson, Tomas, was taken by Malakar just last night. We must put an end to his reign of terror before more lives are lost!"
The party must gather information from the townsfolk, who share tales of strange lights flickering in the woods and eerie sounds echoing through the night. They learn of an ancient shrine deep within the Whispering Woods, said to be the source of Malakar's power. The adventurers must venture into the heart of the forest, navigating through twisted trees and enchanted creatures, to confront the sorcerer and rescue Tomas.
As they delve deeper, the party encounters various challenges: mischievous fae that play tricks on them, enchanted beasts guarding the path, and illusions that test their resolve. Each encounter provides opportunities for skill checks and creative problem-solving, allowing the players to showcase their characters' abilities.
Finally, they arrive at the shrine, a crumbling structure overgrown with vines and pulsating with dark energy. Here, they face Malakar, a tall figure cloaked in shadows, his eyes glowing with malevolence.
**Malakar's Basic Stats:**
– **Armor Class:** 15
– **Hit Points:** 65
– **Attack:** Dark Bolt (Spell Attack +6, 2d10 necrotic damage)
– **Special Ability:** Life Drain (Once per encounter, Malakar can drain 10 hit points from a target within 30 feet, healing himself for the same amount.)
The battle is fierce, with Malakar summoning shadowy minions to aid him. The party must work together, using their skills and spells strategically to overcome the sorcerer and free Tomas from his grasp.
Upon defeating Malakar, the dark energy dissipates, and the villagers are freed from his control. The party returns to Eldenwood as heroes, celebrated for their bravery and cunning. Elara rewards them with magical trinkets and the gratitude of the entire town, ensuring their names will be remembered in the annals of Eldoria's history.
As the sun rises over the horizon, the adventurers reflect on their journey, knowing that they have not only saved a life but also restored hope to a community once shrouded in darkness.