Tier 2 – The Shadow Wraith of Elden Hollow

**Tier 2 play**

As the sun dips below the horizon, casting a golden hue over the sprawling landscapes of Eldoria, your party finds themselves in the quaint village of Elden Hollow. The air is thick with the sweet scent of blooming nightflowers, their silvery petals glimmering in the fading light. The villagers bustle about, their laughter and chatter mingling with the distant sound of a babbling brook, creating a serene atmosphere that belies the tension simmering beneath the surface.

Recently, the village has been plagued by a series of mysterious disappearances. Each night, as the moon rises high, a chilling fog rolls in, and the villagers hear whispers that chill their bones. Those who venture too close to the edge of the forest at night never return. The village elders, desperate and frightened, have summoned brave adventurers—your party—to uncover the truth behind these eerie occurrences.

**Adventure Hook:**

As you gather in the village square, the head elder approaches, her face lined with worry. “You must help us,” she implores. “Our children have gone missing, taken by the Shadow Wraith—a malevolent spirit that haunts the forest. We believe it has taken refuge in the ancient ruins deep within, where the veil between our world and the Shadow Realm thins.”

**Investigation Component:**

Your investigation begins in the village itself. Speak to the townsfolk—each has a piece of the puzzle. A young boy claims to have seen glowing eyes in the fog, while an old woman speaks of an ancient artifact, the Heartstone, said to ward off dark spirits. Gather clues, piece together the lore of the Shadow Wraith, and prepare for the journey ahead.

**Exploration Component:**

As night falls, you venture into the forest, the trees towering above you like ancient sentinels. The air grows colder, and the whispering winds seem to call your name. Following the trail of eerie lights, you discover the ruins, overgrown with vines and shrouded in mist. The Heartstone lies at the center, pulsating with a faint, warm glow. But beware—the Shadow Wraith is drawn to the Heartstone’s power.

**Enemy Encounter:**

As you approach, a figure materializes from the shadows—a towering wraith, its form shifting and swirling like smoke. Its hollow eyes burn with malevolence, and its voice echoes in your mind. “You dare disturb my domain?” it hisses, raising a hand that crackles with dark energy.

**Basic Stats for the Shadow Wraith:**

– **HP:** 85

– **AC:** 15

– **Attack:** Shadow Grasp (Melee Attack): +7 to hit, 2d10 necrotic damage.

– **Special Ability:** Ethereal Step: The Wraith can shift between the material and shadow realms, allowing it to move through objects and avoid attacks for one turn.

**Conclusion:**

Defeating the Shadow Wraith will not only save the missing villagers but will also restore peace to Elden Hollow. As the wraith falls, the Heartstone's glow intensifies, illuminating the ruins and revealing hidden paths that lead to the lost children. The villagers will forever be grateful, and the tales of your bravery will echo through Eldoria for generations to come.

Prepare your dice, gather your party, and embark on this thrilling adventure filled with mystery, danger, and magic!