Tier 2 – The Shadow Thief of Thistledown
**Tier 2 play**
In the vibrant realm of Eldoria, where magic flows like the rivers and mythical creatures roam the lush forests, a dark shadow looms over the once-peaceful village of Thistledown. The townsfolk have been gripped by fear following the mysterious disappearance of several children, with whispers of a malevolent entity lurking in the nearby Enchanted Woods.
The adventurers find themselves in Thistledown, where the air is thick with tension and sorrow. The villagers, a mix of anxious parents and hopeful children, gather around the town square, their eyes filled with desperation. An elder named Maelis, her silver hair glinting in the sunlight, approaches the party. Her voice quivers as she recounts the tale of the “Shadow Thief,” a creature said to steal away the innocent in the dead of night.
Your quest is to uncover the truth behind these abductions and confront the Shadow Thief. As you investigate, you will encounter various locations around Thistledown:
1. **The Weeping Willow**: A massive tree at the edge of the village, rumored to be a portal between realms. The tree’s sap can reveal the hidden fears of those who touch it. Players can gather clues by interacting with the tree, possibly awakening a spirit that knows of the Shadow Thief’s whereabouts.
2. **The Abandoned Well**: Once a source of life for the village, the well has been dry for years. However, strange noises emanate from its depths. A successful investigation could uncover a hidden passage leading to the lair of the Shadow Thief, but beware—dark creatures may dwell within.
3. **The Market Square**: Here, the party can gather information from the townsfolk. Some may offer rumors about the Shadow Thief, while others may try to sell protective charms against dark magic. Roleplaying opportunities abound as players engage with the villagers, learning about their fears and hopes.
As the party delves deeper into the mystery, they will eventually confront the Shadow Thief, a cunning and elusive foe. The creature is a wraith-like figure, shrouded in darkness, with eyes that burn like embers.
**Shadow Thief Stats**:
– **Armor Class**: 14
– **Hit Points**: 75
– **Speed**: 30 ft., fly 60 ft. (hover)
– **Abilities**:
– **Strength**: 12 (+1)
– **Dexterity**: 18 (+4)
– **Constitution**: 14 (+2)
– **Intelligence**: 10 (+0)
– **Wisdom**: 16 (+3)
– **Charisma**: 18 (+4)
– **Special Abilities**:
– **Invisibility**: The Shadow Thief can turn invisible as a bonus action.
– **Shadow Strike**: Melee attack that deals 2d8 necrotic damage plus 1d8 psychic damage.
– **Fear Aura**: All creatures within a 10 ft. radius must succeed on a DC 15 Wisdom saving throw or become frightened for 1 minute.
The final showdown takes place in the heart of the Enchanted Woods, where the trees twist into grotesque shapes, and the air is thick with despair. As the party faces the Shadow Thief, they must utilize their wits and spells to defeat this foe and rescue the missing children, restoring hope to the village of Thistledown.
Will your heroes uncover the truth and defeat the darkness that has taken root in Eldoria? The fate of the village rests in their hands.