Tier 2 – The Shadow Wraith of Eldergrove

**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 Eldergrove, known for its lush gardens and vibrant markets, has fallen under a shadow of despair. A series of mysterious disappearances have plagued the town, with townsfolk vanishing without a trace, leaving only whispers of a dark force lurking in the nearby Whispering Woods.

As the party arrives in Eldergrove, they are greeted by anxious faces and hushed conversations. The air is thick with tension, and the scent of damp earth mingles with the sweet aroma of blooming flowers. The townspeople speak of a malevolent entity known as the Shadow Wraith, a creature said to feed on fear and despair. It is believed that the Wraith has been drawing power from the fears of the townsfolk, growing stronger with each disappearance.

The party is approached by Elara, the town's wise and compassionate healer. With her silver hair cascading like a waterfall, she implores the adventurers to help uncover the truth behind the disappearances. She provides them with a map of the Whispering Woods, where the Wraith is rumored to dwell. The woods are alive with the sounds of rustling leaves and distant animal calls, but an eerie silence hangs in the air, as if the forest itself is holding its breath.

As the party ventures deeper into the woods, they encounter various magical phenomena: glowing mushrooms that pulse with light, trees that seem to whisper secrets, and ethereal creatures that flit between the shadows. The atmosphere is both enchanting and foreboding, creating a sense of wonder and danger.

The investigation leads them to an ancient stone circle, overgrown with vines and illuminated by the soft glow of moonlight. Here, they discover remnants of a ritual that once protected the town from dark forces. However, it appears that the ritual has been corrupted, allowing the Shadow Wraith to gain a foothold in the realm.

To confront the Wraith, the party must gather three magical artifacts hidden throughout the woods: the Heart of the Forest, a crystal imbued with life; the Tear of the Moon, a shimmering drop of liquid silver; and the Whispering Leaf, a rare plant that holds the secrets of the woods. Each artifact is guarded by a magical creature or a puzzle that tests the party's wit and bravery.

**Boss Encounter: Shadow Wraith**

When the party has gathered the artifacts, they return to the stone circle, where the Shadow Wraith awaits. The air crackles with dark energy as the Wraith materializes, a swirling mass of shadows with glowing red eyes that pierce through the darkness.

**Shadow Wraith Stats:**

– **HP:** 80

– **AC:** 15

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

– **Special Ability:** Fear Aura (All creatures within 30 feet must succeed on a DC 14 Wisdom saving throw or be frightened for 1 minute)

The battle against the Shadow Wraith is not just a test of strength but also of courage. The party must use the artifacts they collected to weaken the Wraith, dispelling its dark magic and restoring balance to Eldergrove. As they fight, the Wraith taunts them with their deepest fears, challenging their resolve.

Upon defeating the Wraith, the shadows recede, and the townsfolk begin to reappear, freed from the Wraith's grasp. The party is hailed as heroes, and Elara rewards them with enchanted items and the gratitude of Eldergrove. The adventure concludes with a celebration in the town square, where the air is filled with laughter, music, and the promise of new beginnings.

This one-shot offers a blend of exploration, investigation, and combat, allowing the party to engage with the world of Eldoria in a meaningful way while facing the darkness that threatens it.