Tier 2 – The Curse of the Shadow Wraith

**Tier 2 play**

In the vibrant realm of Eldoria, where magic flows like rivers and mythical creatures roam the land, a shadow looms over the peaceful village of Willowbrook. This idyllic settlement, known for its lush meadows and whispering willows, has recently fallen under the dark influence of a sinister force—the cursed remnants of a once-noble family, now twisted into monstrous forms.

The story begins in the heart of Willowbrook, where the scent of blooming flowers mingles with the fragrant smoke of wood-burning fires. The villagers, once joyful, now wear expressions of worry and fear. Whispers of a dark creature haunting the outskirts of the village have spread like wildfire. This creature, known as the Shadow Wraith, is said to be the curse of the royal family, a tragic tale of love turned to vengeance.

As the adventurers gather in the village tavern, The Whispering Willow, they overhear hushed conversations about the Shadow Wraith. The tavern keeper, a portly man with a thick beard, shares the tale of the cursed prince who was banished for his monstrous form, leaving his kingdom in despair. His sibling, the non-cursed heir, now rules with an iron fist, seeking the power of the lost prince's magic to secure their position.

The party is tasked with investigating the source of the Shadow Wraith’s power, believed to be hidden within the ancient ruins of Eldergrove, a forest thick with ancient trees and enchanted creatures. The villagers offer a few magical trinkets and potions for the journey, hoping that the adventurers can lift the curse that has plagued their home.

As the party sets off, they must navigate through the Eldergrove, facing challenges that test their wit and valor. The forest is alive with magic—glowing flowers, mischievous fae, and ancient spirits that may either aid or hinder their quest.

### Encounter: The Shadow Wraith

Deep within the ruins, the party confronts the Shadow Wraith, a tragic figure cloaked in darkness, with glowing eyes that pierce through the gloom. The Wraith, fueled by rage and sorrow, lashes out at the adventurers. To defeat the Wraith, the party must not only face its physical form but also understand the depths of its curse.

**Shadow Wraith Stats:**

– **HP:** 120

– **AC:** 15

– **Attack:** Shadow Slash (Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 18 (3d8 + 4) necrotic damage.)

– **Special Ability:** Shadow Veil – The Wraith can become incorporeal, allowing it to phase through attacks for one round, making it immune to all damage during that time.

### Resolution

To defeat the Shadow Wraith, the adventurers must dispel the curse by finding the source of its power: a crystal heart hidden in the ruins. Once destroyed, the Wraith is freed from its torment, revealing the tragic story of the prince and his longing for acceptance. The party has the choice to help the Wraith find peace or harness its power for their own gain.

Returning to Willowbrook, the adventurers are hailed as heroes. Depending on their choices, they can either lift the curse, restoring peace to the village, or bring back a fragment of the Wraith’s power, leading to new adventures and unforeseen consequences.

As the sun sets over Eldoria, the village begins to heal, but the echoes of magic and tragedy linger, setting the stage for further tales in a world where every choice has a consequence.