Tier 2 – The Wraith of Sorrow (1)

**Tier 2 play**

In the vibrant and enchanting realm of Eldoria, the town of Mistvale is abuzz with whispers of an ominous presence that has cast a shadow over its inhabitants. Once a place of merriment and joy, Mistvale now suffers under the weight of a terrible curse. For the past month, townsfolk have reported strange occurrences: crops withering overnight, pets vanishing without a trace, and a thick fog that envelops the town each evening, filled with eerie whispers.

**Adventure Hook: The Mysterious Fog**

As the party enters Mistvale, they are greeted by worried faces. The mayor, a stout and balding man named Mayor Grafton, implores the adventurers for help. He explains that the fog is the manifestation of a malevolent spirit, known as the Wraith of Sorrow, which has been unleashed from an ancient shrine hidden deep within the Mistwood Forest. The spirit thrives on negativity and despair, feeding off the townsfolk's fears.

**Exploration Component: Mistwood Forest**

The heroes must venture into Mistwood Forest, where the trees stretch high and the light barely penetrates the canopy. Along their journey, they encounter various challenges:

– **Cursed Wildlife:** The forest is home to enchanted beasts driven mad by the Wraith's influence. A once-friendly creature, like a giant squirrel or a playful fey fox, may attack in a frenzy, and the players must decide whether to subdue or save it.

– **Mysterious Ruins:** As the party delves deeper, they discover ancient ruins overgrown with vines. Clues etched in stone recount the tale of a powerful artifact, the Amulet of Clarity, that can banish the Wraith once and for all. However, retrieving it requires navigating traps and solving puzzles related to the history of Mistvale.

**The Encounter: Wraith of Sorrow**

Upon reaching the heart of the forest, the party confronts the Wraith of Sorrow. This spectral entity, clad in tattered, shadowy robes, glides through the air, emanating an aura of despair. As it hurls shadows of anguish at the adventurers, the atmosphere becomes oppressive, challenging their resolve.

**Basic Stats: Wraith of Sorrow**

– **AC:** 12

– **HP:** 55

– **Abilities:**

– **Whisper of Despair:** Targets one creature, forcing a Wisdom saving throw (DC 13). On failure, the target is frightened and takes 2d6 psychic damage.

– **Shadow Form:** The Wraith can pass through solid objects and is resistant to non-magical attacks.

– **Life Drain:** Melee spell attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft, one target. Hit: 2d8 necrotic damage, and the Wraith regains hit points equal to half the damage dealt.

**Resolution:**

Once the Wraith is defeated or banished, the fog begins to dissipate, and the townsfolk's spirits lift. The party returns to Mistvale as heroes, greeted with cheers and heartfelt gratitude. Mayor Grafton rewards them with the Amulet of Clarity, a treasure that glows with a warm light, symbolizing hope and resilience.

As they leave Mistvale, the adventurers carry with them the tales of gratitude and a renewed sense of purpose, ready for their next grand adventure in the high magic, high fantasy world of Eldoria.