Tier 2 – Celestial Finch A Quest in Eldergrove

**Tier 2 play**

In the idyllic village of Eldergrove, nestled between lush hills and shimmering streams, an unusual event has captured the attention of both locals and travelers alike. A rare bird, known as the Celestial Finch, has been spotted resting on the washing line of the quaint cottage belonging to old Mrs. Hargrove. This vibrant creature, with feathers that shimmer in shades of azure and gold, is said to bring good fortune to those who catch a glimpse of it. However, its appearance has drawn not only the curious but also those with darker intentions.

As the party arrives in Eldergrove, they are greeted by the excited chatter of bird watchers, their binoculars and notebooks at the ready. The air is filled with the sweet scent of blooming wildflowers and the sounds of cheerful birdsong, but beneath this peaceful facade lies an undercurrent of tension. Whispers of a shadowy figure stalking the edges of the village have begun to circulate, a rogue poacher intent on capturing the Celestial Finch for its rumored magical properties.

The party is drawn to the scene outside Mrs. Hargrove's cottage, where a crowd of twitchers has gathered. They must navigate the throng of eager spectators, all while gathering information about the mysterious poacher. As they speak with the locals, they learn that the poacher has been seen lurking near the outskirts of the village, often in the company of a shadowy beast that seems to be his companion.

**Investigation Component:**

The players will need to gather clues from the villagers. They can choose to:

1. **Interview Bird Watchers:** Some may have seen the poacher or noticed strange occurrences in the area.

2. **Search the Cottage:** A visit to Mrs. Hargrove’s home may reveal hidden secrets about the Celestial Finch and its significance.

3. **Scout the Outskirts:** The party can venture into the nearby woods to look for tracks or signs of the poacher’s presence.

**Exploration Component:**

As the party investigates, they will encounter various magical phenomena in the woods, including enchanted flora that reacts to their presence and mystical creatures that may aid or hinder their progress. They may also discover a hidden grove where the Celestial Finch nests, offering them a chance to observe the bird in its natural habitat.

**Enemy Encounter:**

Eventually, the party will confront the poacher, a cunning figure named Garrick the Shadow, who is accompanied by a loyal beast—a Shadow Hound. Garrick is determined to capture the Celestial Finch, believing it will grant him immense power.

**Garrick the Shadow:**

– **Armor Class:** 15

– **Hit Points:** 45

– **Speed:** 30 ft.

– **Abilities:**

– **Stealthy Approach:** Garrick has advantage on Stealth checks in dim light or darkness.

– **Poisoned Dagger:** +6 to hit, 1d4+3 piercing damage plus 2d6 poison damage on a hit.

– **Shadowy Escape:** Once per encounter, Garrick can vanish into the shadows, reappearing 30 feet away.

**Shadow Hound:**

– **Armor Class:** 13

– **Hit Points:** 30

– **Speed:** 40 ft.

– **Abilities:**

– **Pack Tactics:** Advantage on attack rolls against a creature if at least one of the hound's allies is within 5 feet of the creature.

– **Bite:** +5 to hit, 1d8+2 piercing damage.

**Conclusion:**

As the party engages with Garrick and his Shadow Hound, they must strategize to protect the Celestial Finch and thwart the poacher's plans. Upon defeating him, they will have the chance to secure the bird’s safety, earning the gratitude of the villagers and perhaps a magical boon from the Celestial Finch itself.

This one-shot promises to blend investigation, exploration, and combat in a vibrant setting, allowing players to immerse themselves in the high magic and high fantasy of Eldergrove.