Tier 2 – Tier 2 play (4)
**Tier 2 play**
As the sun sets over the sprawling city of Eldoria, brilliant hues of orange and purple dance across the sky, illuminating the glistening spires of crystal and silver that rise high above the bustling streets. You find yourselves gathered in the renowned tavern, The Whispering Wyrm, a cozy establishment filled with the sounds of laughter and the enticing aroma of spiced mead and roasting meats. It's here that your adventure begins, as you overhear hushed whispers among the patrons.
The townsfolk speak of a dreadful event — the untimely death of a local healer, Katie Simpson, which has stirred unease within the community. Only a year ago, her death was ruled a tragic suicide, but those who knew her say she was full of life and kindness, her laughter echoing through the halls of her clinic. As your curiosity piques, you lean in closer to gather more information.
An elderly woman at the bar shares chilling rumors: “They say it wasn’t an accident, but foul play! A shadowy cabal is said to dwell beneath our very feet, using dark magic to manipulate the living — and possibly even the dead!” Her eyes widen in fear, and she fidgets with her amulet as if to ward off evil intent.
With a sense of purpose, you decide to investigate this mystery. Your first lead is the town’s cemetery, where Katie was laid to rest. The headstone, marked with intricate runes and flowers, emanates an unsettling aura. As you approach, a cool breeze rustles the leaves, and you hear a soft whisper beckoning from the shadows.
A sudden chill envelops you as you notice strange markings around the grave, freshly disturbed earth hinting at a recent disturbance. When you examine the area, spirits begin to manifest — ethereal figures that flicker in and out of sight, their faces twisted in anguish. They reveal, in fragmented whispers, that Katie’s death was bound to a malicious sorcerer who resides in the depths of the Shadow Crypt, a hidden lair beneath the city.
Your challenge lies ahead: navigate the labyrinth of tunnels leading to the Shadow Crypt, confronting obstacles, traps, and the sorcerer’s loyal minions along the way. As you delve deeper, you’ll need to solve ancient riddles, gather clues from the spirits, and overcome enchanted guardians that protect the sorcerer's lair.
**Boss Encounter: Varyn the Shadowbinder**
– **AC:** 15
– **HP:** 80
– **Attack:** Shadow Bolt (Ranged Spell Attack: +6 to hit, 2d8 necrotic damage)
– **Special Ability:** Shadow Manipulation – Varyn can cloak himself in shadows, gaining advantage on Stealth checks, and once per encounter, he can unleash a Shadow Wail, forcing all characters within 30 feet to make a DC 14 Wisdom saving throw or be frightened for 1 minute.
As you stand before the menacing doorway of the Shadow Crypt, you feel the weight of destiny upon your shoulders. Will you uncover the truth behind Katie’s death and bring justice for the fallen, or will the shadows consume you as they did her? Prepare yourselves, for your adventure into the heart of mystery, conflict, and dark magic is just beginning!