Tier 2 – The Shadow Wraith’s Rise

**Tier 2 play**

In the vibrant realm of Eldoria, where magic flows like the rivers and mythical creatures roam the enchanted forests, a peculiar disturbance has caught the attention of the local populace. Whispers of a dark force rising in the ancient ruins of Eldrath have spread like wildfire, sending shivers down the spines of even the bravest adventurers. The townsfolk speak of a malevolent entity known as the Shadow Wraith, a being that thrives on fear and despair, and it is said to be gathering an army of lost souls to reclaim its dominion over the land.

As the sun sets, casting a golden hue over the cobblestone streets of the quaint village of Willowbend, the party finds themselves drawn to the flickering lights of the local tavern, The Gilded Griffin. Inside, the air is thick with the scent of roasted meats and the sound of laughter. A mysterious figure cloaked in shadows beckons the adventurers to a secluded corner. With a voice that trembles like the rustling leaves, the figure reveals the dire situation: the Shadow Wraith has been seen near the ruins, and it is up to the party to investigate and put an end to its reign of terror.

The journey to the ruins is fraught with challenges. As the party traverses the winding forest paths, they encounter enchanted creatures—some friendly, others hostile. The trees seem to whisper secrets, and the moonlight dances upon the leaves, guiding them deeper into the heart of the forest. Along the way, they may stumble upon a hidden glade where a wise old druid offers cryptic advice and a magical boon, or they might face off against a pack of shadow wolves, their eyes glowing with an otherworldly light.

Upon reaching the ancient ruins of Eldrath, the party is met with an eerie silence. Crumbling stone structures loom overhead, draped in vines and shrouded in mist. The air is thick with an unsettling energy, and the ground beneath their feet feels alive, pulsating with the remnants of long-forgotten magic. As they explore the ruins, they uncover clues about the Shadow Wraith’s origins—fragments of ancient texts hinting at a tragic tale of betrayal and loss.

Suddenly, the atmosphere shifts. A chilling wind sweeps through the ruins, and the shadows coalesce into a formidable form—the Shadow Wraith itself. This spectral foe, cloaked in darkness, emanates an aura of despair that threatens to sap the party's will to fight.

**Boss Enemy: Shadow Wraith**

– **HP:** 80

– **AC:** 15

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

– **Special Ability:** Fear Aura (All creatures within 10 feet must succeed on a DC 14 Wisdom saving throw or be frightened for 1 minute. They can repeat the save at the end of each of their turns.)

As the battle ensues, the party must use their wits and teamwork to overcome the Wraith's dark powers. They can exploit the environment, using the ruins to their advantage, and perhaps even find remnants of ancient magic that can turn the tide of battle.

Once the Shadow Wraith is defeated, the oppressive darkness lifts, and the spirits of the lost souls are freed, bringing a sense of peace back to the land. The party returns to Willowbend as heroes, celebrated for their bravery and cunning. The villagers offer their gratitude, and the adventurers leave with newfound treasures and tales of their daring exploits, ready for whatever challenges await them next in the magical world of Eldoria.