Tier 2 – The Shadows of Windhaven

**Tier 2 play**

In the vibrant realm of Eldoria, where the skies shimmer with hues of violet and gold, the once-peaceful village of Windhaven has fallen under a dark pall. Whispers of strange occurrences swirl around the cobbled streets, tales of missing villagers and shadows that seem to dance just beyond the flickering torchlight. The townsfolk, desperate and frightened, have turned their eyes toward the horizon, hoping for brave souls to uncover the truth and bring light back to their home.

As the adventurers gather in the local tavern, "The Golden Griffin," the atmosphere is thick with anxiety. The scent of roasted meats fills the air, but the usual jovial chatter has been replaced with hushed voices. At the back of the tavern, an old man with a weathered face approaches the party. His cloak, tattered and frayed, suggests years of hardship. “I’ve heard tales of your courage,” he croaks, his voice trembling. “You must help us. The Nightshade Cult has returned! They lurk in the Shadowglade, and their dark rituals have drawn the villagers into the abyss.”

With a flick of his wrist, he produces a tattered map revealing the location of the Shadowglade, a foreboding forest where daylight dares not trespass. The adventurers feel the weight of the old man's plea as he recounts how the cult seeks to resurrect an ancient evil known as Malakar, a creature of pure darkness that once terrorized Eldoria.

As they journey to the Shadowglade, the air becomes thick with an eerie fog, and the trees twist into grotesque shapes. The sounds of the forest are muffled, the only noise being the rustle of unseen creatures. The party finds themselves at the entrance of a darkened glade where the ground is littered with twisted roots and remnants of ritualistic offerings. Ethereal whispers drift through the air, beckoning the adventurers deeper into the heart of darkness.

Here, the players must navigate through treacherous terrain, avoiding traps set by the cultists and deciphering the ancient runes inscribed on the stones. As they delve deeper, they encounter a series of puzzles that reveal the cult’s plans, culminating in a confrontation with their leader, the enigmatic and powerful High Priestess Elara. She wields dark magic, commanding shadows to ensnare her enemies.

**Boss Enemy: High Priestess Elara**

– **HP:** 75

– **AC:** 15

– **Attack:** Shadowbolt (1d10 + 5 necrotic damage)

– **Special Ability:** Dark Ritual – Once per encounter, Elara can summon shadow minions (3 Shadow Servants) to aid her in battle. Each servant has 10 HP and attacks with Shadow Whip (1d6 + 2 necrotic damage).

As the battle rages, Elara taunts the adventurers, her voice echoing with malice. “You are too late! Malakar will rise again!” The players must use their wits, strength, and teamwork to overcome her dark magic and put an end to the cult's sinister plans.

Upon defeating Elara, the shadows that envelop the glade begin to dissipate. The adventurers discover an ancient artifact—the Heart of Luminara—imbued with radiant energy capable of sealing Malakar’s essence permanently. As they return to Windhaven, the village erupts in celebration, their faith in heroes restored.

The one-shot concludes with the party being hailed as saviors, but the dark whispers of the past linger, hinting at adventures yet to come in the ever-changing tapestry of Eldoria.