Tier 2 – The Shadow Warden’s Curse (1)
**Tier 2 play**
In the vibrant and mystical realm of Eldoria, where the air shimmers with arcane energy and the trees whisper ancient secrets, a peculiar event has captured the attention of adventurers across the land. The once-peaceful village of Willowbrook has been engulfed in a shroud of darkness, as a mysterious figure known only as the Shadow Warden has begun to siphon the life force from the surrounding forest, leaving it withered and lifeless.
As the party arrives at Willowbrook, they are greeted by the anxious townsfolk who plead for assistance. The village elder, a wise old druid named Eldrin, explains that the Shadow Warden has taken residence in the Heartwood Grove, a sacred place where the essence of nature flows freely. The elder believes that the Warden is seeking to harness the grove's power for a nefarious purpose, threatening not only Willowbrook but the balance of nature itself.
The party is tasked with investigating the Heartwood Grove and confronting the Shadow Warden. Along the way, they will encounter enchanted creatures affected by the Warden's dark magic. They may find a group of corrupted dryads who, once guardians of the grove, now serve the Warden. The party must decide whether to fight these former protectors or seek a way to break the enchantment that binds them.
As they delve deeper into the grove, the party will face various challenges, including navigating treacherous terrain filled with magical traps and solving riddles posed by ancient spirits that guard the way. The air is thick with the scent of damp earth and the sound of rustling leaves, creating an atmosphere of tension and anticipation.
When the party finally confronts the Shadow Warden, they discover a figure cloaked in shadows, wielding dark magic that twists the very essence of life. The Warden, a former druid corrupted by power, seeks to dominate the grove and channel its energies to become an immortal being.
**Boss Enemy: Shadow Warden**
– **HP:** 80
– **AC:** 15
– **Attack:** Shadow Bolt (Ranged Spell Attack, +7 to hit, 2d8 necrotic damage)
– **Special Ability:** Life Drain (Melee Attack, +5 to hit, 3d6 necrotic damage, heals for half the damage dealt)
– **Legendary Actions:** The Shadow Warden can use one legendary action to cast a spell or move without provoking opportunity attacks.
To defeat the Shadow Warden, the party must not only engage in combat but also find a way to weaken the Warden’s connection to the grove. They may discover ancient artifacts hidden within the grove that can disrupt the Warden’s magic or uncover secrets about the druid’s past that can be used to sway them back to the light.
As the battle rages, the very ground beneath them begins to pulse with energy, and the fate of Willowbrook hangs in the balance. Will the party restore the Heartwood Grove and save the village, or will darkness consume the land forever? The choice is theirs, and the adventure awaits.