Tier 2 – The Shadows of Lath’Dar

**Tier 2 play**

In the vibrant realm of Eldoria, where magic sizzles in the very air and mythical creatures dance on the edges of reality, the kingdom of Qatari faces a dire crisis. The magnificent city of Lath'Dar, known for its shimmering spires and enchanted gardens, is in a state of unrest as rumors swirl about the mysterious illness afflicting Queen Camilla. With the queen’s health in decline, her strength wanes, leaving her vulnerable just as the kingdom is set to host a diplomatic visit from powerful allies.

As the party begins their adventure in Lath'Dar, the atmosphere thrums with tension. Colorful banners flutter above the cobbled streets, and the scent of roasted venison fills the air, but the usual merriment is stifled by the looming threat of instability. Citizens whisper about the queen's illness, speculating that dark forces conspire to weaken her—forces that the party must uncover.

**Adventure Hook:**

The players are approached by Sir Eldrin, the queen’s loyal knight, who seeks their aid. He explains that in addition to the queen's illness, strange shadows have been seen lurking in the palace gardens at night. The party is tasked to investigate the source of these shadows and ensure the queen’s safety ahead of the Qatari state visit.

**Exploration Component:**

The party begins their investigation in the palace gardens, a mystical place filled with luminescent flowers and sparkling fountains. They must search for clues while navigating the garden's magical properties, which might include animated plants, illusions, or enchanted creatures.

**Encounters:**

1. **Spectral Hallucinations:** As they delve deeper, the party encounters illusions of past kings and queens trapped in a loop, revealing secrets about the palace and Queen Camilla's lineage. The party must dispel these illusions (DC 15 Wisdom saving throw).

2. **Garden Guardians:** A group of animated flower golems, once protectors of the garden, are corrupted by dark magic. The party must either defeat them in combat or find a way to purge the malevolent influence (Stats: AC 13, HP 30, Attack: +4 to hit, 1d8+2 damage).

**Boss Encounter:**

As they gather clues, the party discovers that the shadows are manifestations of a lingering curse cast by a vengeful sorceress, Morgathra, who seeks revenge against the royal family. She confronts the party in the heart of the garden, surrounded by shadows that twist and writhe, reflecting her malevolent power.

**Morgathra’s Stats:**

– AC: 15

– HP: 70

– Attack: Dark Bolt: +6 to hit, range 60 ft., 3d8 necrotic damage.

– Special Ability: Shadow Walk – once per turn, she can teleport to any shadow within 30 feet.

**Conclusion:**

Once defeated, Morgathra’s curse dissipates, restoring balance to the garden and allowing the queen to recover. The party returns to the palace, hailed as heroes, their names forever etched in the annals of Lath'Dar. As the Qatari state visit approaches, they are celebrated for their bravery, and the bonds of alliance between nations are strengthened.

Will they continue their adventures in this magical land or seek new quests beyond the horizon? The choice is theirs!