Tier 2 – The Secrets of Willowbrook A Quest in Eldoria

**Tier 2 play**

In the vibrant realm of Eldoria, where the skies shimmer with magical hues and ancient forests whisper secrets, a crisis looms over the peaceful town of Willowbrook. Recently, a series of strange occurrences have plagued the townsfolk—crops withering overnight, livestock disappearing, and eerie lights flickering in the woods after dusk. The mayor has called upon brave adventurers to investigate the source of this disturbance, offering a handsome reward for anyone who can restore peace to the town.

The party finds themselves in Willowbrook, a quaint town adorned with thatched cottages and bustling markets. As they gather in the town square, the mayor, a stout and anxious figure named Mayor Elysia, approaches them. “Thank you for coming! Something dark stirs in the Whispering Woods,” she implores, her voice trembling. “We’ve lost several villagers who ventured near the old ruins. Please, will you help us uncover the truth?”

### Adventure Hook

The players can choose to gather information from the townsfolk before heading to the Whispering Woods. They might hear tales of a shadowy figure lurking near the ruins, a mysterious glow at night, and an ancient artifact said to be hidden within.

### Exploration Component

As the party ventures into the Whispering Woods, they will encounter enchanting sights: bioluminescent plants, melodious creatures, and a tranquil stream that seems to hum with magic. However, the tranquility is deceiving. The woods are alive with danger, and the players must navigate through treacherous terrain, avoiding pitfalls and interacting with magical creatures who may either assist or hinder their quest.

### Investigation Element

Upon reaching the ruins, the party discovers remnants of an ancient temple dedicated to an enigmatic deity of the forest. They can investigate the surroundings, finding cryptic runes and clues that hint at a dark ritual performed to awaken a long-forgotten spirit. The players must piece together the history of the temple to understand the source of the disturbances.

### Enemy Encounter

As the players delve deeper, they will confront the source of the turmoil: a Forest Wraith, an incorporeal being that feeds on the life force of the land and its inhabitants. The Wraith is driven by a desire to reclaim the temple, believing it to be its rightful domain.

**Forest Wraith Stats:**

– **Type:** Undead

– **Armor Class:** 15

– **Hit Points:** 65

– **Speed:** 0 ft, fly 60 ft (hover)

– **Abilities:**

– **Strength:** 10

– **Dexterity:** 16

– **Constitution:** 12

– **Intelligence:** 14

– **Wisdom:** 16

– **Charisma:** 18

– **Actions:**

– **Life Drain:** Melee Spell Attack: +8 to hit, reach 5 ft, one target. Hit: 27 (5d10) necrotic damage, and the target must make a DC 15 Constitution saving throw, taking half damage on a success.

– **Invisibility:** The Wraith can become invisible at will, allowing it to evade attacks and reposition during combat.

### Conclusion

As the adventurers defeat the Forest Wraith or perhaps negotiate with it, they will uncover the truth about the ancient artifact—a magical seed that can restore balance to the forest and the town. The players must decide whether to return the seed to the temple or use it to help the townsfolk. Their choices will shape the future of Willowbrook and its mystical surroundings.

With rich descriptions and engaging challenges, this one-shot promises to immerse players in a high magic, high fantasy adventure filled with intrigue, exploration, and the thrill of combat in the enchanting world of Eldoria.