Tier 2 – The Heartwood’s Call
**Tier 2 play**
In the vibrant realm of Eldoria, where the skies shimmer with hues of violet and gold, a peculiar disturbance has rippled through the fabric of magic. The once-peaceful village of Eldenwood now sits in the shadow of a darkened forest known as the Whispering Thicket. The villagers speak in hushed tones of a malevolent force that has awakened, twisting the very essence of nature and corrupting the land.
As the sun dips below the horizon, casting long shadows across the cobblestone streets, the party finds themselves summoned to the village square. A desperate elder, her eyes filled with worry, approaches them. “Please, brave souls, we need your help! The Heartwood Tree, the source of our village’s magic, has been tainted by a dark sorcerer known as Malakar. If we do not cleanse it soon, our world will fall into despair.”
The party learns that Malakar has taken refuge deep within the Whispering Thicket, where the trees seem to whisper secrets of old and the air is thick with an unsettling energy. To reach him, they must navigate through the forest, overcoming magical traps and corrupted creatures that guard the path.
**Exploration Component:**
As they journey into the Whispering Thicket, the party encounters various challenges:
1. **Enchanted Vines:** Thick, sentient vines that attempt to ensnare them. A successful DC 15 Strength check allows a character to break free, while failure results in being restrained for one round.
2. **Whispers of the Past:** Ghostly apparitions of ancient druids appear, offering cryptic advice. The party must decipher their messages to avoid pitfalls and find the safest path.
3. **Corrupted Beasts:** The once-gentle creatures of the forest have turned hostile. They must either be fought or calmed with a successful DC 14 Animal Handling check.
**Enemy Encounter:**
As the party approaches the Heartwood Tree, they face Malakar, a cunning sorcerer who has harnessed the dark magic of the forest.
**Malakar, the Dark Sorcerer**
– **AC:** 15
– **HP:** 75
– **Spellcasting:** Malakar can cast spells up to 3rd level, including *Magic Missile*, *Hold Person*, and *Darkness*.
– **Actions:**
– **Staff of Corruption:** Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 10 (2d6 + 3) necrotic damage.
– **Corrupting Touch (Recharge 5-6):** Malakar can touch a creature, dealing 14 (4d6) necrotic damage and forcing the target to make a DC 15 Constitution saving throw. On a failure, the target is poisoned until the end of their next turn.
Once Malakar is defeated, the party must perform a cleansing ritual at the Heartwood Tree, using their combined magic and skills to restore balance to the forest. As the tree glows with renewed life, the villagers of Eldenwood will forever remember the heroes who saved their home, and the party will leave with newfound treasures and the gratitude of a grateful realm.
**Conclusion:**
This one-shot adventure offers a blend of exploration, combat, and problem-solving, perfect for a party of heroes ready to face the challenges of a high-magic world. The fate of Eldoria hangs in the balance, and only the bravest can restore harmony to the land.