Tier 2 – The Heart of Shadows (6)
**Tier 2 play**
In the vibrant kingdom of Eldoria, where the skies shimmer with a kaleidoscope of colors and magic flows like a river through the land, a peculiar phenomenon has captured the attention of the realm. The once peaceful village of Willowdale has been plagued by strange occurrences: crops withering overnight, livestock vanishing without a trace, and whispers of a shadowy figure seen lurking at the edge of the enchanted forest.
As the sun sets, casting a golden hue over the horizon, the villagers gather in the town square, their faces etched with worry. The village elder, a wise and ancient elf named Eldrin, steps forward, his voice trembling with urgency. "Brave adventurers," he implores, "we need your help. A dark force has taken root in the Whispering Woods, and it must be stopped before it consumes our home. Will you investigate the source of this menace?"
Your party, equipped with a mix of spells, swords, and cunning, sets out towards the Whispering Woods. The air grows thick with the scent of damp earth and wildflowers as you enter the forest, the vibrant colors of the leaves contrasting sharply with the encroaching darkness. The trees seem to whisper secrets, their branches swaying gently, guiding you deeper into the heart of the woods.
As you navigate through the underbrush, you come across signs of the disturbance: patches of scorched earth, eerie silence where birds once sang, and an unnatural chill that sends shivers down your spine. Suddenly, a rustle in the bushes catches your attention, and from the shadows emerges a creature of nightmares—a Shadow Wraith, a malevolent spirit born from the fears of the villagers.
**Shadow Wraith Stats:**
– **Armor Class:** 14
– **Hit Points:** 45
– **Speed:** 30 ft., fly 60 ft. (hover)
– **Abilities:**
– **Strength:** 10
– **Dexterity:** 16
– **Constitution:** 12
– **Intelligence:** 1
– **Wisdom:** 14
– **Charisma:** 18
**Actions:**
– **Shadow Strike:** Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 10 (2d6 + 3) necrotic damage.
– **Terrifying Visage:** Each creature of the wraith's choice within 30 feet must succeed on a DC 14 Wisdom saving throw or be frightened until the end of its next turn.
The wraith hisses, its form flickering in and out of existence, as it lunges at your party. The battle begins, echoing through the forest as magic and steel clash against the dark entity.
Once defeated, the wraith dissipates into a cloud of shadow, revealing a hidden glade bathed in moonlight. In the center stands a mystical altar, pulsating with energy. The source of the disturbance becomes clear: an ancient artifact, the Heart of Shadows, has been corrupted.
Your party must decide: will you purify the artifact, risking its power, or seal it away forever? The choice will determine the fate of Willowdale and the balance of magic in Eldoria.
As you contemplate your next move, the forest around you begins to stir, the whispers growing louder, as if the very trees are awaiting your decision. The adventure is just beginning.