Tier 2 – The Cry of the Forest
**Tier 2 play**
Welcome to the enchanted realm of Eldoria, where the verdant landscapes are kissed by the light of twin suns, and magic flows as freely as the rivers that crisscross the land. In this session, your players will embark on an adventure centered around the ancient and mystical Forest of Aeloria, known for its ethereal beauty and the secrets it holds within its emerald depths.
### Adventure Hook: The Cry of the Forest
Recently, the tranquil harmony of Aeloria has been shattered. The once vibrant flora is wilting, and a haunting wail echoes through the trees at night. Local townsfolk whisper of an impending doom, claiming that dark forces seek to harvest the very heart of the forest—a mystical energy source known as the Crystal of Life, which sustains the balance of nature in the realm. The players are summoned by the wise elder of a nearby village, who implores them to investigate the source of the disturbance and protect the forest at all costs.
### Exploration Component: The Heart of Aeloria
As the party ventures into the forest, they will encounter enchanted creatures that have been affected by the encroaching darkness—twisted dryads, sorrowful sprites, and corrupted beasts. The players must navigate through magical barriers and treacherous terrains, using their skills and wits to overcome challenges.
**Key Locations:**
1. **The Whispering Glade**: A serene area where the trees communicate through rustling leaves. Here, the players can gather information from friendly forest spirits who are willing to aid them if they demonstrate their good intentions.
2. **The Crystal Cavern**: A hidden cave where the Crystal of Life is located. The cave is illuminated by the shimmering light of the crystal but is shrouded in a magical mist that distorts reality. The players must solve a puzzle involving ancient runes to access the crystal.
### Enemy Encounter: The Corrupted Guardian
As the players approach the Crystal of Life, they are confronted by **Gorath the Blightbringer**, a corrupted treant who has fallen under the influence of dark magic. His twisted form is a stark contrast to the vibrant guardians of the forest.
**Gorath the Blightbringer (Boss Enemy Stats)**:
– **Type**: Large Plant
– **Armor Class**: 15
– **Hit Points**: 85
– **Speed**: 30 ft.
– **Abilities**:
– **Multiattack**: Gorath can make two slam attacks per turn.
– **Slam**: +7 to hit, reach 10 ft., one target. Hit: 15 (2d10 + 4) bludgeoning damage.
– **Corrupting Touch**: Melee spell attack, +6 to hit. On a hit, target must make a DC 15 Constitution saving throw or take 22 (4d10) necrotic damage and be poisoned until the end of their next turn.
### Resolution: Restoring Balance
If the party defeats Gorath, they can purify the Crystal of Life, restoring the forest's vitality. The spirits of Aeloria will celebrate, granting the players magical boons as a reward for their bravery. However, if they fail, the darkness will continue to spread, leading to a devastating consequence for the surrounding villages and the realm itself.
### Conclusion
This one-shot encourages players to engage with the world, make impactful decisions, and immerse themselves in the sensory experiences of the magical Forest of Aeloria. The balance between nature and corruption serves as a backdrop for their journey, challenging them to become heroes in a world where fantasy and magic reign supreme.