Tier 2 – The Shadows of the Arcane Academy
**Tier 2 play**
As the sun begins to set over the bustling city of Eldoria, the vibrant colors of twilight paint the sky in hues of orange and purple. The air is thick with the scent of blooming nightshade flowers, and the distant sounds of laughter and music echo from the taverns lining the cobblestone streets. However, beneath this festive atmosphere, a dark shadow looms, threatening to disrupt the peace.
The party finds themselves drawn to the mysterious disappearance of several students from the prestigious Arcane Academy. Whispers of a malevolent force lurking within the ancient library, a repository of forbidden knowledge, have spread like wildfire. The academy’s headmaster, a frail but wise elven sage named Eldrin, beseeches the adventurers for their help. “The students must be found before the next full moon,” he implores, his voice trembling. “We fear they may have awakened something far beyond our understanding.”
As the party approaches the grand library, they are greeted by towering shelves filled with tomes that seem to shimmer with arcane energy. The atmosphere grows heavy with anticipation, and the flickering candlelight casts eerie shadows that dance along the walls. Just as they begin their investigation, an ancient tome falls from its perch, revealing a hidden passageway leading into the depths of the library.
**Exploration Component:**
The hidden passage is dark and winding, filled with traps and illusions designed to protect the secrets within. The party must navigate through puzzles that require both intellect and teamwork, such as deciphering ancient runes and avoiding spectral guardians that protect the lost knowledge. As they delve deeper, they discover clues about the students’ fate, hinting at a sinister ritual aimed at harnessing forbidden magic.
**Enemy Encounter:**
As the party uncovers the truth, they come face to face with the instigator of the chaos: a rogue sorceress named Lysara, who seeks to draw power from the souls of the missing students. Cloaked in shadows, she wields a staff crackling with arcane energy.
**Lysara’s Basic Stats:**
– **HP:** 60
– **AC:** 15
– **Spell Slots:** 3 (1st-level spells)
– **Attacks:**
– Arcane Bolt: +6 to hit, 2d6 force damage
– Shadow Grasp (Recharge 5-6): Restrains one target; they must succeed on a DC 14 Strength saving throw or take 2d8 necrotic damage.
As the battle ensues, the party must work together, utilizing their unique abilities to counter Lysara’s spells and free the trapped students before it’s too late. Will they be able to uncover the dark secrets of the Arcane Academy and save the innocent, or will they fall victim to the very darkness they seek to vanquish?
The fate of Eldoria rests in their hands as they embark on this thrilling one-shot adventure filled with mystery, magic, and danger.