Tier 2 – Shadows Beneath Eldoria

**Tier 2 play**

In the heart of the bustling city of Eldoria, a series of mysterious disappearances have sent ripples of panic through the streets. Whispers of a shadowy figure lurking in the depths of the ancient sewers have reached the ears of the townsfolk, urging them to stay indoors as night falls. The local authorities, unable to solve the enigma, turn to a band of brave adventurers—your party—to unravel the mystery and bring peace back to the city.

The one-shot begins at the renowned tavern "The Gilded Griffin," where your party is approached by a frantic young woman named Lira, whose brother has gone missing. Her eyes glisten with tears as she describes how he was last seen near the old well in the market square. She implores the party to investigate and offers her family's pendant, a token of their gratitude, as a reward for their help.

As the party makes their way to the well, they encounter the dim glow of ancient runes etched into the stone. The air is thick with the scent of damp earth and a hint of something metallic. Peering down into the well reveals a narrow stone staircase spiraling into darkness. The walls are slick, and the atmosphere hums with latent magical energy.

Descending into the sewers, the adventurers must navigate treacherous terrain, avoiding slippery patches and the occasional eerie echo of unseen creatures. As they explore, they come across a series of murals depicting the history of Eldoria's underground: ancient guardians, battles against dark forces, and the city’s eternal struggle to maintain the balance between light and shadow.

Suddenly, a hissing sound breaks the silence. From the shadows, a group of sinister sewer-dwellers known as the "Umbra Serpents" emerge, their reptilian eyes gleaming with malice. They are the guardians of this hidden domain, acting as protectors for a greater evil that has taken root. The party must engage in combat with these agile foes, who use the environment to their advantage.

**Umbra Serpent Stats:**

– **Armor Class:** 13

– **Hit Points:** 25

– **Attack:** Bite: +5 to hit, 1d8+3 piercing damage

– **Special Ability:** Shadow Step – once per encounter, can teleport to an adjacent shadow, avoiding an attack.

After defeating the Umbra Serpents, the party discovers a hidden passageway that leads deeper into the sewer system. Here, they find signs of a larger plot: a sigil etched into the wall reveals the influence of a dark sorcerer, once imprisoned below the city but now plotting to rise again. The adventurers must gather clues and pieces of the sorcerer's plan, including a magical relic that can seal his power.

As they piece together the mystery, the party learns of a grand ritual set to occur during the city's Festival of Lights, when the magical wards are weakest. They must act quickly, exploring the labyrinthine tunnels, gathering allies, and uncovering the sorcerer's lair before it's too late.

Ultimately, the session culminates in a thrilling confrontation with the dark sorcerer, who wields corrupted magic that warps the very fabric of the environment around him. The adventurers must use their wit and skills to outmaneuver him and prevent the rising tide of darkness from engulfing Eldoria.

This one-shot promises high-stakes adventure, rich lore, and the chance to explore the intricate world beneath the city while battling against a formidable foe. Will your party succeed in their quest, or will the darkness claim Eldoria for itself? Only time will tell.