Tier 2 – The Shadow Stalker of Willowdale

**Tier 2 play**

In the vibrant realm of Eldoria, where towering crystal spires pierce the sky and enchanted forests whisper secrets, a shadow looms over the peaceful village of Willowdale. The annual Harvest Festival is just days away, but a series of mysterious disappearances has left the townsfolk in a state of panic. Rumors speak of a malevolent force lurking in the ancient woods beyond the village, a creature known only as the Shadow Stalker.

As the players arrive in Willowdale, they are greeted by the anxious faces of villagers preparing for the festival. A local elder, Elara, approaches them with a desperate plea. "Please, brave adventurers! We need your help. Our children have gone missing, and I fear the Shadow Stalker is behind it. If you can uncover the truth and bring our loved ones back, we will reward you handsomely."

The players must investigate the village, gathering clues from the townsfolk. They learn about the old legends surrounding the Shadow Stalker, a creature said to emerge during times of great celebration, drawn to the joy and laughter of the festival. The players can explore various locations:

1. **The Town Square**: Here, they find a group of children who witnessed strange lights flickering in the woods at night. They can roll for insight to glean more information about the lights, which could lead them to the creature's lair.

2. **The Elder's Cottage**: Elara shares an ancient tome detailing the Shadow Stalker's weaknesses. If the players succeed in a history check, they may learn that the creature is vulnerable to radiant magic.

3. **The Forest Edge**: As night falls, the players venture into the dark woods, where they must navigate through twisted trees and eerie sounds. They could encounter magical creatures like mischievous sprites or enchanted beasts that may provide assistance or hinder their progress.

Once they reach the heart of the forest, they find the lair of the Shadow Stalker—a dark, cavernous space illuminated by flickering, ghostly lights. The players must confront the creature, a shadowy figure with glowing red eyes and the ability to manipulate darkness.

**Shadow Stalker Boss Stats**:

– **HP**: 85

– **AC**: 15

– **Attack**: Shadow Strike (Melee, +7 to hit, 2d10 necrotic damage)

– **Special Ability**: Cloak of Shadows (Once per encounter, the Shadow Stalker can become invisible until it attacks or until the end of its next turn.)

As the players engage in battle, they can use the knowledge they gathered from their investigation to exploit the creature's weaknesses. If they succeed in defeating the Shadow Stalker, the missing children will be found, safe but frightened, and the village will celebrate their heroes at the Harvest Festival.

The session concludes with a grand feast in the town square, where the players are honored and rewarded, and the bonds of friendship are strengthened amidst the joy of the festival. The adventure not only tests their combat skills but also their ability to gather information and strategize, making for a memorable one-shot in the enchanting world of Eldoria.