Tier 2 – The Lost Oracle of Eldridge

**Tier 2 play**

In the vibrant world of Eldoria, where magic dances through the air like shimmering dust and fantastic creatures roam the lush landscapes, a call to adventure beckons. The town of Eldridge, a once-thriving hub of trade and arcane scholarship, has fallen under a shroud of mystery. Recently, the Eldridge Oracle, a wise seer whose prophecies have guided the town for centuries, has gone missing. Fear and uncertainty have gripped the townsfolk, causing trade routes to close and a pall of dread to settle over the region.

The party finds themselves amidst the bustling town square, where whispers of the Oracle's disappearance swirl through the air. Curious townsfolk tell tales of strange sightings near the Whispering Woods, a mysterious forest on the outskirts of Eldridge known for its magical anomalies and treacherous paths. The air is thick with the scent of roasted meats and sweet pastries, contrasting sharply with the worry etched on the faces of the townsfolk. Children play nearby, their laughter a fleeting reminder of happiness as the adults exchange fearful glances.

As the adventurers prepare to investigate, they learn of the Oracle's last known vision—a cryptic message about "the Nightshade Cult," a secretive group rumored to be practicing dark magic in the heart of the forest. They must delve into the Whispering Woods, uncover the cult's true intentions, and recover the Oracle before it's too late.

### Exploration Component

Navigating the Whispering Woods, the party faces enchanting sights and daunting obstacles. They encounter lush vegetation that glows faintly, ancient trees that seem to whisper secrets, and flickering lights that lead deeper into the forest. However, the deeper they go, the more ominous the atmosphere becomes. They might discover hidden glades where magical creatures dwell, such as mischievous sprites or elusive fae, who may offer aid or trickery.

### Investigation Component

As the party gathers clues, they find remnants of dark rituals—slashed symbols etched into tree trunks and ominous shadows flickering in the corners of their vision. They might meet a frail old woman named Agatha, a former member of the cult who can provide vital information, but only if they can prove their worth through a task or puzzle she sets before them.

### Enemy Encounter: The Nightshade Cultists

Within the depths of the woods, the party finally confronts the Nightshade Cultists, cloaked figures wielding dark magic. At the heart of the cult lies their leader, **Malakar the Shadowbinder**.

**Malakar's Basic Stats:**

– **HP:** 65

– **AC:** 14

– **Spellcasting:** Spell save DC 15

– **Spells:** *Eldritch Blast*, *Shadow Step*, *Darkness*, *Hold Person*

Encountering Malakar and his cultists, the adventurers must use both might and cunning to overcome their adversaries. They will need to time their attacks carefully, as the cultists can summon shadows to confuse and divide the party.

### Conclusion

If the party defeats Malakar and restores the Oracle, they will earn the gratitude of Eldridge and unlock new magical abilities or treasures hidden within the Whispering Woods. The experience will forge their bonds as adventurers and leave them with tales to tell of their triumph over darkness.

With creativity, collaboration, and imagination, this one-shot adventure awaits your Dungeon Master’s guidance, ready to unfold as your party embarks on a quest to save the lost Oracle of Eldridge!