Tier 2 – The Tear of the Tides
**Tier 2 play**
In the vibrant realm of Eldoria, where magic flows like the rivers and the skies shimmer with the hues of enchantment, a peculiar event has stirred the hearts of its inhabitants. The once-peaceful village of Willowbrook has been beset by a series of strange occurrences following a devastating flood that swept through the region. The townsfolk whisper of a dark force that has taken advantage of the chaos, and it is up to your party to uncover the truth.
As the sun sets, casting a golden glow over the remnants of the flood, the party arrives in Willowbrook. The air is thick with tension, and the scent of damp earth mingles with the sweet aroma of blooming wildflowers. The villagers, weary and anxious, gather in the town square, their eyes filled with hope as they spot the adventurers.
The mayor, a stout man with a bushy beard, approaches the party. "Thank the stars you’ve come! We need your help. Ever since the flood, strange creatures have been seen lurking in the woods, and our livestock has begun to vanish. We fear something sinister is at play."
The party learns that the floodwaters unearthed an ancient shrine dedicated to the Water Spirit, long forgotten by the villagers. It is said that the shrine holds a powerful artifact known as the Tear of the Tides, capable of controlling the very waters that now threaten the village. However, the artifact has attracted the attention of a malevolent entity—a water elemental named Kaldor, who seeks to harness its power for his own dark purposes.
The party must venture into the flooded woods, where the trees loom like giants, their roots entwined in the muck. The sound of trickling water and distant howls fills the air, creating an eerie atmosphere. As they navigate through the treacherous terrain, they encounter various challenges, including:
1. **Flooded Pathways**: The party must make Dexterity saving throws to avoid being swept away by sudden surges of water.
2. **Mysterious Creatures**: They face off against corrupted wildlife, such as twisted waterlogged wolves and animated vines that attempt to ensnare them.
Eventually, the party reaches the shrine, a majestic structure partially submerged in water, adorned with glowing runes. As they approach, Kaldor emerges from the depths, a swirling mass of water and fury. His voice echoes like thunder, "You dare disturb my domain? The Tear of the Tides belongs to me!"
**Boss Enemy: Kaldor, the Water Elemental**
– **HP**: 80
– **AC**: 15
– **Attack**:
– **Water Whip**: +6 to hit, 2d10 bludgeoning damage.
– **Drenching Wave**: A cone of water that forces a Dexterity saving throw (DC 14) or take 3d8 cold damage and be knocked prone.
– **Special Ability**: **Flood Surge**: Once per encounter, Kaldor can create a wave that pushes all players back 15 feet unless they succeed on a Strength saving throw (DC 15).
As the battle rages, the party must work together, utilizing their skills and spells to overcome Kaldor's might. Once defeated, the elemental dissipates into a gentle stream, leaving behind the Tear of the Tides, which glows with a soft blue light.
With the artifact in hand, the party returns to Willowbrook, where the villagers celebrate their victory. The Tear of the Tides is restored to the shrine, calming the waters and bringing peace back to the land. The adventurers are hailed as heroes, their names forever etched in the hearts of the grateful villagers.
As the sun rises over Willowbrook, the party reflects on their adventure, knowing that they have not only saved a village but also forged bonds that will last a lifetime. The world of Eldoria is vast, and many more adventures await those brave enough to seek them.