Tier 2 – The Shadow Stalker of Eldoria
**Tier 2 play**
In the heart of the mystical realm of Eldoria, where vibrant colors dance in the air and magic flows like a river, a shadow looms over the peaceful village of Eldenwood. The once-thriving hamlet, nestled between the Whispering Woods and the shimmering Lake Luminara, has been plagued by a series of mysterious disappearances. Villagers whisper of a dark figure seen stalking the forest at night, and the air is thick with fear.
As the sun sets, casting a golden hue over the landscape, the party finds themselves gathered in the local tavern, The Gilded Griffin. The warm glow of lanterns flickers, illuminating the worried faces of the villagers. An elder, her voice trembling, approaches the party. “Please, brave adventurers, we need your help. Our children have gone missing, and we fear they have been taken by the wraith known as the Shadow Stalker. It is said that he dwells in the depths of the Whispering Woods, where the trees themselves seem to whisper secrets of despair.”
The party is tasked with investigating the disappearances and confronting the Shadow Stalker. To aid them, the elder provides a map leading to the heart of the Whispering Woods, marked with ancient runes that hint at protective wards against dark magic. The party must gather supplies, perhaps seeking the assistance of a local herbalist for potions or a blacksmith for enchanted weapons.
As they venture into the woods, the atmosphere shifts; the air grows colder, and the trees seem to close in around them. Strange sounds echo through the branches – the rustling of leaves, distant whispers, and the occasional snap of a twig. The party must navigate through this enchanted forest, facing challenges such as enchanted creatures, tricky illusions, and perhaps even a riddle posed by a mischievous forest spirit.
After overcoming these obstacles, the party reaches a clearing where the Shadow Stalker awaits. Cloaked in darkness, his eyes glinting like shards of obsidian, he stands over a circle of faintly glowing runes. The children are trapped in a magical slumber, their dreams twisted by the wraith’s dark magic.
**Boss Enemy: Shadow Stalker**
– **HP:** 80
– **AC:** 15
– **Attack:** Shadow Strike (Melee): +6 to hit, 2d8+4 necrotic damage
– **Special Ability:** Dark Veil – Once per encounter, the Shadow Stalker can become invisible for 1 turn, reappearing in a location within 30 feet.
– **Weakness:** Radiant damage deals double damage to the Shadow Stalker.
The confrontation will test the party’s resolve, requiring them to strategize and utilize their abilities wisely. As they battle the Shadow Stalker, they must also find a way to break the enchantment holding the children captive. Perhaps a specific spell or a combination of magical items can shatter the dark magic binding them.
Once the Shadow Stalker is defeated, the party can awaken the children, who will share their harrowing tales of being lured into the woods by the wraith’s haunting melody. The grateful villagers will reward the party with treasures from the village’s storied past, including a magical artifact that may aid them in future adventures.
As the sun rises over Eldenwood, the party emerges victorious, the village saved, and the bonds of friendship forged in the fires of adventure. The world of Eldoria awaits their next journey, filled with magic, mystery, and the promise of new challenges.