Tier 2 – The Shadow of Eldoria (2)

**Tier 2 play**

In the vibrant realm of Eldoria, where magic flows like the rivers and the skies shimmer with the hues of enchantment, a shadow has begun to creep across the land. The once-peaceful village of Eldenwood, nestled between the Whispering Woods and the Crystal Lake, has been plagued by a series of mysterious disappearances. Villagers whisper of a dark cult that has taken root in the nearby ruins of an ancient temple, long abandoned and overgrown with vines and thorns.

As the sun sets, casting a golden glow over the landscape, the party finds themselves in the heart of Eldenwood. The air is thick with tension, and the scent of damp earth mingles with the sweet aroma of blooming nightshade. The villagers, their faces etched with worry, gather around a flickering bonfire, sharing tales of the cult's sinister rituals and the strange symbols that have begun to appear on the trees surrounding the temple.

Your quest begins with a visit to the village elder, a wise and weathered elf named Elowen. She implores the party to investigate the temple and uncover the truth behind the cult's activities. "They seek to awaken an ancient evil," she warns, her voice trembling. "You must stop them before it is too late."

As the party makes their way to the temple, they navigate through the dense forest, where the sounds of rustling leaves and distant howls create an eerie atmosphere. The path is fraught with challenges, including enchanted creatures that guard the way—such as mischievous pixies and a territorial owlbear.

Upon reaching the temple, the party is greeted by a grand yet crumbling structure, its once-majestic columns now draped in moss and vines. The air is thick with the scent of decay, and the faint glow of magical runes illuminates the entrance. Inside, the party discovers a series of chambers filled with traps and puzzles, each designed to test their wits and teamwork.

As they delve deeper, they encounter the cultists—zealous followers of a dark entity known as the Shadow Serpent. The cultists, clad in tattered robes and adorned with the same symbols seen in the forest, are performing a ritual to summon their dark master. The party must disrupt the ritual and confront the cult leader, a formidable foe named Malakar.

**Malakar, Cult Leader**

– **HP:** 60

– **AC:** 15

– **Attack:** Shadow Bolt (ranged spell attack, +5 to hit, 2d8 necrotic damage)

– **Special Ability:** Dark Summon (once per encounter, summon 1d4 Shadow Minions to aid in battle)

As the battle unfolds, the party must not only defeat Malakar but also prevent the ritual from reaching its climax. The stakes are high, and the fate of Eldenwood hangs in the balance. Will they succeed in thwarting the cult's plans and restoring peace to the village, or will they fall victim to the darkness that threatens to engulf the land?

With rich sensory details and a blend of exploration, combat, and investigation, this one-shot adventure promises to immerse players in a world of high magic and thrilling challenges. Prepare for an unforgettable session filled with intrigue, danger, and the triumph of heroism!