Tier 2 – The Equine Prophecy
Tier 2 play
**Party Details:**
– Party Size: 5
– A: 6
– B: 30
– Party Level: 5 (30 / 6 = 5)
**Adventure Title:** "The Equine Prophecy"
**Adventure Synopsis:**
In the high magic realm of Eldoria, where shimmering skies meet verdant landscapes, the balance of nature is threatened by an ancient prophecy. A loving family, known as the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, has been tasked with ensuring the cycle of life and death continues. However, their harmonious existence is disrupted when an unknown force manipulates the delicate weave of destiny, causing chaos across the realm.
**Setting:**
The adventure begins in the tranquil village of Verdant Hollow, where the air is filled with the scent of blooming flowers and the sound of gentle streams. The villagers are oblivious to the growing darkness encroaching upon their peaceful lives. As the party arrives, they notice ominous signs: crops wilting overnight, animals behaving erratically, and shadows lurking in the corners of their vision.
**Hook:**
While visiting a local tavern, the party overhears a distressed villager recounting a terrifying dream: the Four Horsemen, once protectors of the realm, are now at odds with one another. The villager believes that if they can uncover the truth behind this rift, they might restore balance before it’s too late.
**Objectives:**
1. Investigate the village to gather clues about the Horsemen's family dynamics and the nature of their conflict.
2. Journey to the ruins of the Temple of Equilibrium, a once-sacred site now corrupted by dark magic.
3. Confront the source of the manipulation and restore harmony among the Horsemen.
**Key Locations:**
1. **Verdant Hollow:** A quaint village with friendly inhabitants, where the party can gather information and supplies.
2. **Whispering Woods:** A mystical forest filled with enchanted creatures and hidden dangers, leading to the Temple of Equilibrium.
3. **Temple of Equilibrium:** An ancient ruin where the Horsemen are said to gather. It is adorned with magical glyphs and is the heart of the disturbance.
**Enemies:**
– **Corrupted Spirit (Boss):**
– **Name:** Malakar, the Shadow of Discord
– **Type:** Undead Spirit
– **AC:** 15
– **HP:** 85
– **Attack:** Shadow Strike (Melee, +7 to hit, 2d8+4 necrotic damage)
– **Special Ability:** Whispers of Doubt (Once per encounter, can force a Wisdom saving throw or cause one player to attack another).
**Encounter:**
Upon reaching the Temple, the party faces Malakar, who feeds off the discord among the Horsemen. As they battle this spirit, the party must also navigate a maze of illusions that distort their perceptions of one another, testing their trust and teamwork.
**Resolution:**
Once Malakar is defeated, the true nature of the Horsemen's conflict is revealed. The family had been manipulated by dark forces, causing misunderstandings and strife. The party can choose to help the Horsemen reconcile or harness their powers to restore balance to the realm.
**Conclusion:**
As harmony is restored, the villagers of Verdant Hollow celebrate the heroes, and the Horsemen grant the party a boon—magical steeds imbued with the essence of the four elements, allowing them to traverse the land with newfound speed and grace.
This session offers a blend of investigation, exploration, and combat, emphasizing the importance of family, trust, and cooperation in overcoming darkness.