Tier 2 – The Wraith of the Woods (7)

**Tier 2 play**

In the vibrant realm of Eldoria, where magic flows like rivers and the skies shimmer with the hues of enchantment, a peculiar disturbance has caught the attention of the local populace. The once-bustling town of Eldenwood, nestled at the edge of the Whispering Woods, has fallen silent. Rumors swirl of a dark force that has emerged from the depths of the forest, casting a shadow over the town and its inhabitants.

As the adventurers arrive in Eldenwood, they are greeted by an eerie stillness. The streets, usually filled with laughter and the scent of baked goods, are now deserted. The townsfolk have barricaded themselves in their homes, whispering tales of a malevolent spirit known as the Wraith of the Woods. This spectral entity is said to have the power to drain the life force from those who venture too close to its lair, leaving them as mere husks of their former selves.

The party must investigate the source of this dark magic. They can gather information from the few brave souls willing to speak, learning that the Wraith was once a guardian of the forest, corrupted by a powerful artifact known as the Heart of Shadows. This artifact, a pulsating gem of obsidian, was stolen from its resting place by a band of rogue sorcerers seeking to harness its power for their own nefarious purposes.

To confront the Wraith, the adventurers must first navigate the treacherous Whispering Woods, where the trees seem to whisper secrets and the very ground shifts beneath their feet. They will face enchanted creatures, such as mischievous sprites and shadowy wolves, as they make their way to the heart of the forest.

Once they reach the Wraith's lair, a clearing bathed in an unnatural twilight, they will confront the spirit itself. The Wraith, a swirling mass of darkness with glowing eyes, will attempt to drain the life from the adventurers, using its ability to manipulate shadows and create illusions of their deepest fears.

**Boss Enemy: Wraith of the Woods**

– **HP:** 80

– **AC:** 15

– **Attack:** Shadow Drain (Melee Attack, +6 to hit, 2d8 necrotic damage)

– **Special Ability:** Shadow Illusion (Once per encounter, create illusory duplicates of itself, forcing players to make a Wisdom saving throw (DC 14) or become frightened for 1 minute.)

To defeat the Wraith, the party must find a way to destroy the Heart of Shadows, which is hidden within the clearing. They can use their skills to uncover its location, perhaps by deciphering ancient runes or using spells to reveal hidden paths. Once the Heart is destroyed, the Wraith will be freed from its torment, returning to its former role as the protector of the forest.

As the adventurers emerge victorious, the forest will begin to heal, and the townsfolk will emerge from their homes, grateful for the heroes who restored peace to Eldenwood. The party will be celebrated, and they may even find new allies among the grateful townsfolk, who offer them magical items and knowledge of the land as a token of their appreciation.

This one-shot adventure promises a blend of exploration, combat, and investigation, set against the backdrop of a high-magic, high-fantasy world where every choice can lead to unexpected consequences.