Tier 2 – The Wraith of the Forgotten (4)

**Tier 2 play**

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm golden hue over the bustling city of Eldoria, the last patrons of The Gilded Tankard were settling into their evening routines. The air was thick with the scent of roasted meats and the rich aroma of spiced ales. Laughter and the clinking of tankards filled the tavern, but amidst the revelry, a sense of unease lingered just beneath the surface.

Unbeknownst to the revelers, a shadowy figure lurked in the alleyway outside, watching intently. This was no ordinary evening; it was the eve of the Festival of Lost Spirits, a night when the veil between the living and the dead thinned, allowing restless souls to roam the streets. Whispers of a malevolent spirit, known as the Wraith of the Forgotten, had spread through the tavern like wildfire. It was said that this spirit sought vengeance for a long-buried secret, one that could plunge Eldoria into chaos.

As the party gathers around a table, a mysterious old woman approaches them. Her eyes, clouded with age yet sharp with wisdom, glint in the dim light. "You seek adventure, do you not?" she croaks, her voice barely above a whisper. "The Wraith has awakened, and it hungers for the truth. Only those brave enough to confront its wrath can save this city from despair."

The party must embark on a quest to uncover the truth behind the Wraith's anger. They must investigate the old cemetery on the outskirts of Eldoria, where the spirit is said to roam. As they navigate through the overgrown graves, they will encounter spectral guardians and enchanted traps, remnants of the powerful magic that binds the Wraith to this world.

In their search, they discover an ancient tome hidden within a crumbling mausoleum. The tome reveals that the Wraith was once a noble hero betrayed by those he trusted. To put the spirit to rest, the party must find the relic that was stolen from him—a jeweled dagger said to be hidden in the depths of the Whispering Woods, a place where the trees themselves seem to murmur secrets.

As they venture into the woods, the party faces various challenges: mischievous fey creatures, illusions that distort reality, and treacherous terrain that shifts beneath their feet. They must work together, using their unique skills to overcome these obstacles and reach the heart of the forest.

At the climax of their adventure, the party confronts the Wraith of the Forgotten in a clearing bathed in ethereal moonlight. The spirit, a swirling mass of shadows and sorrow, demands the return of his dagger. The party must engage in a battle of wits and strength, using their abilities to weaken the Wraith while uncovering the truth of his betrayal.

**Boss Enemy: Wraith of the Forgotten**

– **HP:** 80

– **AC:** 15

– **Attack:** Shadow Slash (Melee Attack, +7 to hit, 2d8 necrotic damage)

– **Special Ability:** Haunting Whispers (All players must succeed on a DC 15 Wisdom saving throw or be frightened for 1 minute)

Once the party retrieves the dagger and presents it to the Wraith, they can choose to either confront him with the truth of his betrayal or offer him redemption. Depending on their choice, the Wraith may either be vanquished or find peace, allowing Eldoria to celebrate the Festival of Lost Spirits without fear.

As the adventure concludes, the party returns to The Gilded Tankard, where the atmosphere is transformed. The tavern is filled with joyous laughter, and the patrons raise their tankards in celebration of the heroes who saved their city. The old woman watches from the shadows, a knowing smile on her lips, as she disappears into the night, leaving the party to bask in their glory.