Tier 2 – Whiskers of Eldoria The Dark Secret of Willowbrook

**Tier 2 play**

In the vibrant kingdom of Eldoria, where magic flows like a river and mysteries linger in every shadow, a curious tale unfolds. The sun hangs low in the sky, casting a warm golden hue over the quaint village of Willowbrook, where the scent of blooming flowers mingles with the aroma of freshly baked bread. Children laugh as they play in the streets, unaware that a dark secret lurks just beyond the horizon.

The party finds themselves drawn to this charming village, having heard whispers of a peculiar creature that has captured the hearts of its inhabitants. The townsfolk speak of a small, fluffy cat named Whiskers, who is not just any ordinary feline but an eldritch abomination trapped in the form of a household pet. Once a formidable being of chaos and darkness, Whiskers had accidentally slipped into this realm and was lovingly adopted by a spirited young girl named Lila.

However, as the party learns during their stay, something sinister is afoot. Rumors abound that a malevolent sorcerer, drawn by the unique essence of Whiskers, seeks to reclaim the creature for his own nefarious purposes. Lila, blissfully unaware of the danger, continues to dote on her beloved pet, who now purrs contentedly in her lap, seemingly harmless.

The party’s quest is clear: they must protect Whiskers from the impending threat while uncovering the truth behind the sorcerer’s obsession. They venture into the heart of Willowbrook, gathering information from the locals, who describe strange occurrences—shadows flickering at the edge of vision and a chilling wind that sweeps through the village at night.

As night falls, the party decides to investigate the old mill on the outskirts of town, rumored to be the sorcerer’s hideout. The air grows thick with tension as they approach, the moonlight filtering through the trees casting eerie shadows on the ground. Inside the mill, the party discovers arcane symbols etched into the floor and the remnants of dark rituals—evidence of the sorcerer’s twisted ambitions.

Suddenly, an arcane surge echoes through the mill, and a figure steps forth from the darkness. The sorcerer, cloaked in shadows, reveals himself, his eyes burning with malevolence and his hands crackling with energy. He demands the return of Whiskers, promising power and riches in exchange. The party, sensing the urgency of their mission, must now confront this dark figure.

**Boss Enemy: Malakar the Shadowbinder**

– **Armor Class:** 15

– **Hit Points:** 60

– **Speed:** 30 ft.

– **Abilities:**

– **Spellcasting:** Malakar can cast spells up to 3rd level, including *Magic Missile*, *Darkness*, and *Hold Person*.

– **Shadow Step:** As a bonus action, Malakar can teleport up to 30 feet to an unoccupied space he can see, leaving behind a trail of shadowy mist.

– **Eldritch Grasp:** Melee Spell Attack: +7 to hit, reach 10 ft., one target. Hit: 2d10 necrotic damage.

As the battle ensues, the party must utilize their skills and creativity to thwart Malakar’s plans. Perhaps they can find a way to sever his connection to dark magic or use Whiskers’ hidden powers to turn the tide. The fate of both the lovable cat and the village hangs in the balance, urging the adventurers to act swiftly and decisively.

Will the party protect Whiskers and the innocent Lila from the clutches of darkness, or will the shadows of the past claim them all? The adventure awaits!