Tier 2 – The Shadows of Eldoria (22)

**Tier 2 play**

Welcome to the realm of Eldoria, a land where magic flows like rivers and the air hums with the whispers of ancient spells. The sun hangs low in the sky, casting a golden hue over the bustling town of Windhaven, known for its vibrant markets and the towering spires of the Arcane Academy. However, beneath its picturesque surface, a shadow looms—a powerful artifact has been stolen from the Academy, and rumors suggest it has fallen into the hands of a nefarious cult known as the Shadowed Veil.

Your party gathers at the local tavern, The Gilded Griffin, where the scent of roasted meats and spiced ale fills the air. A hooded figure approaches, their voice barely above a whisper, yet filled with urgency. "I have information about the artifact. It is said to be hidden in the Darkwood Forest, protected by dark magic and an ancient guardian. You must retrieve it before it is too late."

As your party delves into the Darkwood Forest, the atmosphere shifts. The trees are gnarled and twisted, their branches reaching out like skeletal fingers. A thick fog blankets the ground, and the silence is unsettling, broken only by the occasional rustle of unseen creatures. Suddenly, the ground trembles, and a massive figure emerges from the shadows—the Guardian of the Veil, a hulking entity made of shadow and despair.

**Boss Enemy: Guardian of the Veil**

– **Type:** Construct (Shadow)

– **Armor Class:** 15

– **Hit Points:** 120

– **Speed:** 30 ft.

– **Abilities:**

– **Shadow Strike:** Melee weapon attack: +7 to hit, reach 10 ft., one target. Hit: 25 (4d8 + 6) necrotic damage.

– **Dark Veil:** Once per encounter, the Guardian can envelop the battlefield in darkness, imposing disadvantage on all attacks for 1 minute.

– **Shadow Meld:** The Guardian can become invisible in dim light or darkness until it attacks or is in bright light.

As the battle ensues, the Guardian summons shadowy minions to aid in its defense, forcing your party to strategize and work together. The air crackles with magic as spells are cast, and the forest itself seems to react to the chaos, with branches whipping and roots attempting to ensnare the unwary.

Will your party defeat the Guardian and reclaim the stolen artifact, or will they succumb to the darkness that threatens to engulf Windhaven? The fate of the town—and perhaps the realm—rests in their hands.

Prepare for an adventure filled with mystery, danger, and the thrill of magic as your players navigate the challenges of the Darkwood Forest and confront the shadows that lurk within.