Tier 2 – Shadows of the Festival
**Tier 2 play**
In the vibrant city of Eldoria, known for its towering spires and magical wonders, an air of excitement buzzes through the streets as the annual Festival of Lights approaches. Colorful banners flutter in the breeze, and the scent of sweet pastries wafts through the marketplace. However, beneath the festive surface, a dark shadow looms, threatening to turn this joyous occasion into a nightmare.
Recently, the body of Tyler Kerry was discovered at the bottom of a disused lift shaft in the heart of the city. What was initially deemed an unfortunate accident is now being treated as suspicious by the local authorities. Whispers spread like wildfire, suggesting that foul play may have taken place. As the party gathers at a local tavern, the atmosphere shifts from celebration to concern, drawing their attention to the troubling news.
A mysterious figure approaches the players, a frantic look in their eyes. It's Collette Kerry, Tyler's sister. She pleads for the heroes' help, insisting that her brother would never venture into the abandoned part of the city alone. Desperate for answers, Collette reveals that Tyler had been researching an ancient artifact rumored to be hidden in the depths of the old lift shaft, one that could grant immense power to its wielder.
**Adventure Hook:**
The players must investigate the lift shaft and uncover the truth behind Tyler's death. As they explore the abandoned site, they will face magical traps, remnants of old machinery, and the eerie echoes of the past. The air is thick with dust and the faint glow of enchanted crystals illuminates the dark corners, casting unsettling shadows.
**Exploration Component:**
Inside the lift shaft, the party discovers a series of levels leading deeper underground. Each level presents unique challenges and puzzles that must be solved to progress. The atmosphere grows more tense and foreboding with each descent, as they encounter the specters of those who once perished in the lift’s tragic history. Will they succumb to the fear that lingers in the air, or will they press on in search of the truth?
**Enemy Encounter:**
As the party reaches the final level, they face a formidable foe: *The Wraith of the Forgotten*, a vengeful spirit bound to the site by the pain of its past. The Wraith, a shadowy figure with piercing, glowing eyes, seeks to protect the ancient artifact from intruders.
**Basic Stats:**
– **Name:** Wraith of the Forgotten
– **Type:** Undead
– **Hit Points:** 45
– **Armor Class:** 14
– **Attack:** Ethereal Grasp (Melee Spell Attack +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 12 (2d8 + 3) necrotic damage.)
– **Special Ability:** *Fear Aura* – Creatures within 10 feet must succeed on a DC 14 Wisdom saving throw or be frightened until the end of their next turn.
As the party battles the Wraith, they must also unravel the mystery of the artifact Tyler sought. What was it? Why was he killed? And who else might be after it? The answers lie in the shadows, waiting for brave adventurers to uncover the truth before the Festival of Lights becomes a festival of despair. Will the party manage to unveil the secrets of the lift shaft and bring justice for Tyler Kerry, or will they become another set of lost souls in the depths below?