Tier 2 – The Enchanted Artist of Swansea

**Tier 2 play**

In the vibrant coastal town of Swansea, where the salty breeze dances with the scent of blooming wildflowers, a peculiar rumor has begun to spread like wildfire. The townsfolk whisper of a 100-year-old artist named Elowen, renowned for her breathtaking creations that seem to capture the very essence of life itself. However, there is a twist—Elowen has never touched a paintbrush. Instead, she conjures her masterpieces through the sheer force of her imagination, using a unique form of magic that has captivated the hearts of many.

As the party arrives in Swansea, they are greeted by the colorful sights and sounds of the bustling marketplace. Stalls brimming with vibrant fabrics, exotic spices, and local crafts line the streets. Yet, an unsettling tension hangs in the air. The townspeople speak in hushed tones about a shadowy figure who has been seen lurking near Elowen's studio, a figure that some believe seeks to steal her magical talent.

The party's adventure begins when they receive an urgent summons from the mayor, who implores them to investigate the strange occurrences surrounding Elowen. The mayor reveals that the artist is set to unveil her latest masterpiece in a grand exhibition to celebrate her upcoming 101st birthday. However, if the shadowy figure succeeds in their nefarious plans, the exhibition—and Elowen's legacy—could be lost forever.

As the party makes their way to Elowen's charming studio, they are greeted by the sight of a quaint cottage adorned with colorful flowers and whimsical sculptures. Inside, the air is thick with the scent of paint and the sound of Elowen humming a tune as she works. The walls are lined with her enchanting creations, each one telling a story of its own.

To unravel the mystery, the party must gather clues. They can speak with the townsfolk, who may have seen the shadowy figure, or investigate the studio for hidden secrets. As they delve deeper, they discover that the figure is a rival artist named Malakar, who has long envied Elowen's talent. Malakar has devised a plan to siphon Elowen's magic during the exhibition, intending to steal her creative essence and leave her a mere shell of her former self.

The party must confront Malakar before the exhibition begins. They track him to an abandoned warehouse on the outskirts of town, where he is preparing a dark ritual to drain Elowen's magic. The atmosphere is thick with tension, and the air crackles with energy as the party faces off against Malakar.

**Boss Enemy: Malakar, the Envious Artist**

– **HP:** 60

– **AC:** 15

– **Attack:** Shadowy Brush (Melee Attack, +6 to hit, 1d10 + 3 psychic damage)

– **Special Ability:** Essence Drain (Recharge 5-6) – Malakar targets one creature within 30 feet. The target must succeed on a DC 15 Wisdom saving throw or take 3d6 psychic damage, and Malakar regains hit points equal to the damage dealt.

As the battle ensues, the party must use their wits and teamwork to defeat Malakar and thwart his sinister plans. Once victorious, they return to Elowen, who expresses her gratitude with a heartfelt gift—a magical charm that enhances their creativity and inspires their future adventures.

In the end, the exhibition goes off without a hitch, and Elowen's legacy shines brighter than ever. The party leaves Swansea with not only a sense of accomplishment but also a newfound appreciation for the magic of art and the power of imagination.