Tier 2 – Shadows of the Verdant Sanctum

**Tier 2 play**

In the heart of the vibrant city of Eldoria, where the streets are alive with the chatter of merchants and the scent of exotic spices wafts through the air, a shadow looms over the bustling marketplace. Whispers of a mysterious ailment have begun to spread, afflicting the citizens and leaving them in a state of despair. The local healer, a wise and elderly figure named Elara, has discovered that the source of this affliction lies within a hidden facility known only as the Verdant Sanctum.

The Verdant Sanctum is said to be a state-of-the-art medicinal cannabis factory, shrouded in secrecy and protected by powerful wards. Rumors suggest that the facility is not just a place of healing but also a front for dark dealings, where the very essence of magic is being twisted for nefarious purposes. Elara beseeches the party to investigate the Sanctum, promising a handsome reward of gold and a rare magical artifact to those who can uncover the truth.

As the party approaches the facility, they find themselves at the edge of a lush, overgrown garden, where the air is thick with the sweet aroma of blooming herbs. The entrance is guarded by two imposing sentinels, clad in enchanted armor that glimmers in the sunlight. The party must decide whether to confront the guards directly, use stealth to slip past them, or perhaps employ cunning diplomacy to gain entry.

Inside, the atmosphere shifts dramatically. The walls are adorned with intricate murals depicting the history of medicinal plants, but a sense of unease permeates the air. The party soon discovers that the factory is not merely a place of healing; it is a laboratory where a rogue alchemist, known as Malakar, conducts twisted experiments to enhance the potency of the cannabis plants, using dark magic to amplify their effects. His goal? To create a substance that could control the minds of the populace, turning them into unwitting pawns.

As the party delves deeper into the facility, they encounter various challenges: enchanted traps that spring to life, magical creatures guarding the precious plants, and even a few of Malakar's failed experiments—grotesque hybrids of plant and beast that attack on sight. The party must use their skills and wits to navigate these dangers, gathering clues about Malakar's plans along the way.

Eventually, they confront Malakar in his opulent laboratory, a room filled with bubbling potions and shimmering crystals. The air crackles with energy as he prepares to unleash his latest creation.

**Boss Enemy: Malakar the Alchemist**

– **HP:** 80

– **AC:** 15

– **Attack:** Arcane Blast (Spell Attack +6, 2d10 force damage)

– **Special Ability:** Mind Control (Recharge 5-6, target must succeed on a DC 15 Wisdom saving throw or be charmed for 1 minute)

As the battle ensues, the party must disrupt Malakar's rituals while avoiding his powerful spells. If they succeed, they can not only save the city from his malevolent plans but also uncover the secrets of the Verdant Sanctum, perhaps even discovering a way to harness the healing properties of the plants for good.

With the fate of Eldoria hanging in the balance, the party must act swiftly and decisively, for the clock is ticking, and Malakar's ambitions threaten to engulf the city in chaos. Will they emerge victorious, or will the shadows of the Verdant Sanctum claim them as well? The adventure awaits!