Tier 2 – The Shadows of Willowbrook (5)
**Tier 2 play**
In the vibrant realm of Eldoria, where magic flows like the rivers and the skies shimmer with the colors of enchantment, a peculiar event has stirred the interest of adventurers across the land. The once-peaceful village of Willowbrook has recently fallen under a shadow, as a series of mysterious disappearances have plagued its citizens. Whispers of a dark sorcerer, known only as Malakar, have spread like wildfire, claiming he has returned to reclaim his lost power and exact revenge on those who wronged him.
As the sun sets, casting a golden hue over the lush fields surrounding Willowbrook, the party arrives at the village square. The air is thick with tension; villagers huddle together, their faces etched with worry. A local elder, a frail woman named Elara, approaches the party, her voice trembling with urgency. "Please, brave souls, we need your help! Malakar has taken our loved ones, and we fear he is using them for a dark ritual to summon a terrible beast!"
The party learns that the sorcerer resides in the Ruins of Eldrath, an ancient fortress hidden deep within the Whispering Woods. The journey will be fraught with danger, as the woods are known for their illusions and magical creatures that protect the sorcerer's domain. To aid them, Elara provides the party with a map, marked with potential hazards and hidden paths.
**Exploration Component:**
As the party ventures into the Whispering Woods, they must navigate through enchanted thickets that shift and change, testing their wits and resolve. They encounter mischievous fae who offer riddles in exchange for safe passage, and they must decide whether to engage with these creatures or find a way to avoid them.
**Investigation Component:**
Upon reaching the Ruins of Eldrath, the party discovers remnants of Malakar's dark magic. They find clues in the form of arcane symbols and remnants of past rituals. A successful investigation check reveals a hidden chamber where the sorcerer conducts his dark experiments. The party must piece together the information to locate the captives and disrupt Malakar's plans.
**Enemy Encounter:**
As the party confronts Malakar, they find him surrounded by swirling shadows and the faint cries of the captured villagers echoing in the air. The sorcerer, clad in tattered robes, wields powerful magic with a sinister grin.
**Malakar's Basic Stats:**
– **Armor Class:** 15
– **Hit Points:** 70
– **Spellcasting:** Can cast spells up to 3rd level; known spells include *Magic Missile*, *Hold Person*, and *Darkness*.
– **Actions:**
– **Shadow Bolt:** Ranged Spell Attack: +7 to hit, range 120 ft., one target. Hit: 2d10 necrotic damage.
– **Summon Shadow Minions (Recharge 5-6):** Summons 1d4 shadow creatures to aid him in battle.
As the battle ensues, the party must work together to defeat Malakar and free the villagers. With clever tactics and teamwork, they can overcome the sorcerer's dark magic and restore peace to Willowbrook.
Once Malakar is defeated, the grateful villagers are freed, and the party is celebrated as heroes. They receive tokens of gratitude from the villagers, including enchanted items that will aid them in future adventures. The tale of their bravery will be sung in taverns across Eldoria, inspiring future adventurers to take up the mantle of heroism.