Tier 2 – The Shadows of Eldenwood (7)
**Tier 2 play**
In the vibrant realm of Eldoria, where magic flows like the rivers and the skies shimmer with the hues of enchanted auroras, a peculiar event has stirred the attention of the local populace. The once-peaceful village of Eldenwood has been plagued by a series of mysterious disappearances, with whispers of shadowy figures lurking in the moonlit forests. The village elder, a wise and weathered elf named Elowen, has summoned brave adventurers to uncover the truth behind these sinister happenings.
As the party arrives in Eldenwood, they are greeted by the anxious faces of villagers, their eyes filled with fear and uncertainty. The air is thick with the scent of damp earth and blooming wildflowers, but an unsettling chill lingers, hinting at the dark presence that has taken root nearby. Elowen, with her silver hair cascading like a waterfall, explains that several villagers have vanished without a trace, leaving only a trail of eerie whispers carried by the wind.
The adventurers must investigate the surrounding woods, known as the Whispering Glade, where the trees seem to murmur secrets and the shadows dance with malevolence. As they delve deeper into the forest, they encounter strange magical phenomena: glowing mushrooms that pulse with energy, ethereal wisps that lead them astray, and the haunting echoes of laughter that seem to come from nowhere.
The investigation leads them to an ancient ruin, overgrown with vines and shrouded in mystery. Here, they discover that the disappearances are linked to a rogue sorcerer named Malakar, a former member of the Arcane Council who was banished for dabbling in forbidden magic. Consumed by his thirst for power, Malakar has been using dark rituals to summon shadowy creatures that prey on the villagers, drawing them into his lair to fuel his sinister ambitions.
**Boss Encounter: Malakar the Shadowbinder**
– **HP:** 120
– **AC:** 15
– **Spellcasting:** Malakar can cast spells up to 5th level, including *Shadow Bolt* (2d10 necrotic damage) and *Darkness* (as a spell).
– **Abilities:**
– **Shadow Step:** Malakar can teleport between shadows within 60 feet as a bonus action.
– **Summon Shadows:** Once per encounter, he can summon 2d4 Shadow Creatures to aid him in battle.
As the party confronts Malakar in his lair, they must navigate through a maze of illusions and traps, using their wits and teamwork to overcome the dark sorcerer and his minions. The final battle will test their skills, as they face not only Malakar’s formidable magic but also the shadows that threaten to consume them.
Upon defeating Malakar, the adventurers will free the captured villagers and restore peace to Eldenwood. The grateful villagers will reward them with magical items and the promise of future aid, solidifying their place as heroes in this enchanted land. The adventure concludes with a celebration in the village, where tales of their bravery will be sung for generations to come.