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Tier 2 – The Distiller of Eldergrove

**Tier 2 play**

As the sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm golden hue over the bustling town of Eldergrove, the air is thick with the scent of spiced meats and freshly baked bread. Lanterns flicker to life, illuminating the cobblestone streets as townsfolk gather in the central square for the annual Harvest Festival. Music fills the air, and laughter echoes off the stone walls, but beneath the surface of this vibrant celebration lies a dark undercurrent.

Rumors have begun to swirl among the townspeople—whispers of a shadowy figure known only as "The Distiller," a rogue alchemist who has been seen lurking near the tavern, The Drunken Griffin. Patrons have reported strange happenings: patrons disappearing after indulging in the tavern's potent brews, and a sudden surge in violent altercations fueled by the potent concoctions that The Distiller has been secretly supplying. With the festival in full swing, the town is on edge, and the mayor has discreetly summoned the party to investigate the source of these disturbances.

As the party approaches The Drunken Griffin, they are greeted by the raucous sounds of revelry. The tavern's wooden doors swing open, revealing a lively scene filled with patrons raising their mugs in celebration. However, the party notices a few individuals lurking in the shadows, their eyes darting nervously. The atmosphere is thick with tension, and the party must navigate the festive chaos to uncover the truth.

**Investigation Component:**

– The party can engage with various NPCs, each with their own stories and insights. A drunken bard might spill secrets about The Distiller's last known whereabouts, while a concerned barmaid could reveal the names of those who have gone missing.

– Clues can be found in the form of discarded notes detailing strange ingredients, or a hidden cellar where illicit brews are made.

**Exploration Component:**

– The investigation leads the party to the outskirts of Eldergrove, where they discover a hidden grove shrouded in mist. Here, they find The Distiller’s secret laboratory, filled with bubbling potions and strange apparatuses. The air is thick with the scent of herbs and alcohol, and the atmosphere is charged with magic.

– The party must navigate through traps and illusions designed to protect The Distiller’s secrets, encountering magical creatures that guard the entrance.

**Boss Encounter: The Distiller**

Once the party breaches the laboratory, they confront The Distiller, a cunning and charismatic figure who uses their alchemical prowess to create powerful potions that manipulate the minds of those who consume them.

**Basic Stats:**

– **Name:** The Distiller

– **Class:** Alchemist (Homebrew)

– **HP:** 75

– **AC:** 15

– **Attack:** Alchemical Flasks (Ranged Attack, +6 to hit, 2d8 damage)

– **Special Ability:** Mind-Bending Brew (Recharge 5-6) – The Distiller can force a target to make a Wisdom saving throw (DC 15) or become charmed for 1 minute, believing The Distiller is their closest ally.

As the party battles The Distiller, they must also contend with the effects of the potions that fill the air, creating unpredictable magical effects that can either aid or hinder their progress. The outcome of this confrontation will not only determine the fate of Eldergrove but also the future of its Harvest Festival.

Will the party uncover the truth behind The Distiller's nefarious plans and restore peace to the town, or will they fall victim to the intoxicating allure of the alchemical brews? The fate of Eldergrove lies in their hands.

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