Tier 2 – The Secrets of the Obsidian Spire

**Tier 2 play**

In the heart of the high magic city of Eldoria, a mysterious tower has risen from the earth overnight, piercing the sky like a shard of glass. Known as the Obsidian Spire, this 74-storey monument of dark stone and shimmering runes has become the center of intrigue and fear. Whispers of powerful magic radiating from the tower fill the air, and rumors swell that a great artifact lies hidden within its depths—a relic said to grant unimaginable power to its possessor.

Your party finds themselves in the bustling market square of Eldoria, where vendors peddle enchanted trinkets and street performers dazzle with illusions. The atmosphere is electric with anticipation and the scent of spiced pastries wafts through the air. However, the joyous chatter is abruptly interrupted by a resounding tremor that shakes the very ground beneath your feet. People scream and scatter, pointing toward the Obsidian Spire, its surface flickering with dark energy.

As your party gathers their wits, a hooded figure approaches, her eyes glowing faintly with arcane energy. "You must help us," she implores. "The tower is awakening—glimpses of unfathomable terrors have begun to seep into our world. We cannot afford to wait."

Your objective is clear: investigate the Obsidian Spire, uncover its secrets, and put a stop to the emerging threats before they spill into Eldoria. Will you brave the tower's heights and face the challenges within?

### Exploration Component

As you enter the Obsidian Spire, a magical barrier envelops the entrance, requiring a successful Arcana check (DC 15) to dispel. Inside, the air is thick with an otherworldly energy, and the walls pulse with runes that seem to shift and change. Each floor presents unique challenges—pits of shadow, riddles etched in stone, and rooms filled with illusions that test your party's resolve and perception.

### Enemy Encounter

As you ascend through the levels, you will encounter the Shadow Guardians—ethereal beings that protect the tower.

**Shadow Guardian Stats:**

– **HP:** 40

– **AC:** 15

– **Attack:** Shadow Blade (Melee): +5 to hit, 2d8 necrotic damage

– **Special Ability:** Shadow Meld (Once per encounter): Can become invisible until it attacks.

The final confrontation awaits you at the tower's pinnacle, where a powerful sorcerer named Malakar has been drawing energy from the realm of shadows to augment his own abilities. As he prepares to unleash a cataclysmic spell, your party must stop him before he tears the fabric of reality itself.

**Malakar’s Stats:**

– **HP:** 80

– **AC:** 17

– **Spellcasting:** Can cast spells up to 5th level, including Shadow Bolt (3d10 necrotic damage) and Shadow Wall (creates a barrier that obscures vision).

– **Legendary Action:** Once per round, Malakar can use a legendary action to cast a spell or attack.

### Conclusion

As the dust settles and the echoes of battle fade, the fate of Eldoria hangs in the balance. The powerful artifact, once believed to be a source of infinite power, reveals itself not as a tool for conquest but as a means of balance in the world. Will your party secure it, or will darkness reclaim the city? The choice is yours, and the adventure has only just begun.