Tier 2 – The Wraith of Despair
**Tier 2 play**
In the vibrant realm of Eldoria, where magic flows as freely as the rivers and the skies shimmer with the hues of enchantment, a peculiar disturbance has rippled through the tranquil town of Willowbrook. The townsfolk, once bustling with life, now whisper in hushed tones about the ominous presence that has settled over their beloved village. Crops have withered overnight, and the once-lively market square is eerily silent, save for the occasional rustle of leaves in the wind.
Your party finds themselves drawn to Willowbrook, summoned by a desperate plea from the town's mayor, Elara Brightwood. As you arrive, the sun hangs low in the sky, casting long shadows that dance across the cobblestone streets. The air is thick with tension, and the scent of damp earth mingles with the faint aroma of herbs from the nearby apothecary.
Elara meets you at the town square, her eyes wide with worry. "Adventurers! Thank the stars you've come! A dark force has taken root in the Whispering Woods just beyond our borders. We believe it to be the work of a malevolent spirit known as the Wraith of Despair. It feeds on the hopes and dreams of our people, leaving only sorrow in its wake. We need your help to confront this entity and restore peace to Willowbrook."
As you gather your supplies and prepare for the journey, the townsfolk offer you tokens of gratitude: a shimmering vial of healing potion, a map marked with ancient runes, and a small enchanted charm that glows faintly in your hand.
The Whispering Woods loom ahead, their trees twisted and gnarled, shrouded in an ethereal mist. As you step into the forest, the atmosphere shifts; the air grows colder, and the whispers of the trees seem to echo your thoughts. Shadows flit between the trunks, and you can almost hear the faint cries of lost souls.
Deeper into the woods, you come upon a clearing where the Wraith of Despair manifests—a swirling mass of darkness with piercing, hollow eyes that seem to absorb the very light around it. The Wraith's voice is a chilling whisper, echoing your deepest fears and regrets. "Why do you intrude upon my domain? Your hopes are futile, and your dreams shall wither like the crops of Willowbrook."
**Boss Enemy: Wraith of Despair**
– **HP:** 80
– **AC:** 15
– **Attack:** Shadow Grasp (Melee Spell Attack: +7 to hit, reach 10 ft., one target. Hit: 2d10 necrotic damage, and the target must succeed on a DC 15 Wisdom saving throw or be frightened until the end of its next turn.)
– **Special Ability:** Despairing Whispers (Recharge 5-6): The Wraith targets all creatures within a 30-foot radius. Each target must make a DC 15 Wisdom saving throw, taking 3d8 psychic damage on a failed save, or half as much damage on a successful one.
As the confrontation begins, the forest around you seems to pulse with energy, the very essence of magic swirling in response to the battle. Will you be able to overcome the Wraith's dark influence and restore hope to Willowbrook? The fate of the town rests in your hands, and the echoes of its people’s dreams await your courage to be rekindled.