Tier 2 – The Mystery of the Missing Boats

**Tier 2 play**

In the heart of the vibrant city of Eldoria, where the sun dapples the cobblestone streets and magic sparkles in the air, a dark cloud looms over the festivities of the annual Spring Blossom Festival. The joyful laughter of children and the lively chatter of merchants fill the air, but beneath the surface, something sinister stirs.

Word has spread of a mystery that has cast a shadow over the city: several boats have gone missing along the River Elden, disappearing without a trace under the cover of night. The festival's highlight—a grand regatta—has been thrown into jeopardy. The city council, desperate to restore peace and safety, has summoned a group of brave adventurers to investigate.

As the players gather in the council hall, they are met by a stern but worried councilor, Lady Seraphine. She explains that the missing boats were piloted by local fishermen and merchants, including a beloved pilot known as Ibrahima Bah. Rumor has it that a monstrous creature prowls the river at night, preying on these vessels. The council fears it is a powerful water elemental summoned by dark magic, seeking vengeance for some ancient wrong.

The adventurers are tasked with discovering the truth behind the disappearances. They are provided with a small boat and magical lanterns that illuminate the river with shimmering light. As they set sail, the atmosphere shifts; the air grows cooler, and a thick mist begins to creep along the water, obscuring their path.

**Encounters:**

1. **The Whispering Mist:** As the players navigate the fog, they hear a chorus of eerie voices beckoning them deeper into the river's embrace. A successful Insight or Wisdom saving throw helps them resist the compulsion to follow the voices, while failure could lead them into a dangerous hidden cove where they encounter will-o'-the-wisps.

2. **The River Elemental:** As the players continue their investigation, they suddenly feel the water beneath them churn violently. A massive water elemental, a guardian of the river, emerges from the depths, furious and confused. The players must either combat the elemental or find a way to communicate with it.

– **Water Elemental Stats:**

– HP: 90

– AC: 14

– Speed: 30 ft., swim 90 ft.

– Attacks:

– Slam: +7 to hit, 2d8+4 bludgeoning damage.

– Whirlwind: All creatures within 10 ft. must succeed on a DC 15 Strength saving throw or take 3d8 bludgeoning damage and be knocked prone.

3. **The Hidden Cove:** If the players manage to calm the elemental or defeat it, they are led to a hidden cove where they find Ibrahima Bah, imprisoned by a dark sorcerer who seeks to harness the elemental's power. The players must navigate through a series of puzzles, traps, and minions before facing the sorcerer in a climactic battle.

– **Sorcerer Stats:**

– HP: 65

– AC: 15

– Spells: Fireball, Hold Person, Misty Step, Magic Missile.

**Conclusion:**

Upon defeating the sorcerer and rescuing Ibrahima, the players learn that the man had been wrongfully imprisoned for a crime he did not commit—his only sin was being in the wrong place at the wrong time when the sorcerer attacked. With the truth revealed, the city can celebrate the festival in safety, and the adventurers will be hailed as heroes, receiving rewards and thanks from the grateful citizens of Eldoria.

**Note to DM:**

Encourage player creativity in how they approach encounters. They can use diplomacy, espionage, or raw combat skills to navigate the challenges. The festival's vibrant atmosphere can serve as a backdrop for player interactions, side quests from townsfolk, and further adventures if desired.