Tier 2 – The Corruption of Eldervale
Tier 2 play
In the lush, vibrant world of Eldoria, where towering trees touch the sky and rivers shimmer like diamonds under the sun, a whisper of unease has settled over the town of Eldervale. Once a thriving community known for its bountiful harvests and friendly folk, it now lies under a shroud of mystery. Dark tendrils of magic have begun to seep from the ancient ruins at the edge of the Whispering Woods, twisting the very fabric of nature and corrupting the lands.
The townsfolk have reported strange happenings: crops wilting overnight, livestock disappearing without a trace, and eerie shadows flitting between the trees at dusk. Rumors speak of a malevolent spirit, an ancient being once imprisoned within the ruins, now stirring from its slumber. The mayor, desperate to save his home, has called upon brave adventurers to investigate the source of this dark magic and put an end to its reign of terror.
### Adventure Hook:
As the party arrives in Eldervale, they are greeted by the anxious townsfolk who plead for their assistance. The mayor explains that the only way to unravel the mystery is to venture into the Whispering Woods and reach the ruins. He provides them with a tattered map, detailing the safest path, but warns of the dangers that lurk in the shadows.
### The Journey:
The path to the ruins takes the adventurers through the enchanting Whispering Woods, where nature is alive with magic. As they traverse the forest, they encounter mischievous fae creatures, each with their own agenda. Some may offer guidance or useful items, while others may play tricks that lead them astray. The tension in the air is palpable, and the party must rely on their wits and teamwork to navigate the forest’s whims.
### The Ruins:
Upon reaching the ancient ruins, the adventurers find crumbling stone structures, overgrown with ivy and vibrant flowers that seem to pulse with a life of their own. In the center lies a great stone altar, darkened by age and the taint of forbidden magic. Here, the party uncovers an ancient artifact—a corrupted crystal that is the source of the dark magic afflicting Eldervale.
### The Confrontation:
As the party examines the crystal, they awaken **Aeloria, the Spirit of Corruption**, a once-benevolent guardian turned malevolent due to the dark energies of the artifact. Aeloria appears as a swirling mass of shadows and twisted vines, her voice echoing with rage and sorrow.
**Aeloria's Stats:**
– **HP**: 75
– **AC**: 15
– **Attack**: Shadow Tendril (Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 10 ft., one target. Hit: 14 (2d8 + 5) necrotic damage.)
– **Special Ability**: **Corrupting Gaze**: Aeloria targets one player within 30 feet. That player must succeed on a DC 15 Wisdom saving throw or take 10 (3d6) psychic damage and be frightened until the end of their next turn.
### Resolution:
The adventurers must defeat Aeloria or find a way to purify the crystal to restore her to her former self. The battle will test their skills and teamwork, and as they engage with Aeloria, the outcome of their struggle will determine the fate of Eldervale.
Upon victory, they can choose to destroy the artifact or attempt to cleanse it, restoring balance to the forest and gratitude from the townsfolk. Either choice will lead to a unique ending, reflecting the party's decisions and their impact on the world around them.
With rich lore, engaging encounters, and the possibility of exploration and character development, this one-shot promises to be an unforgettable experience in the magical realm of Eldoria.