Tier 2 – The Grinning Wraith of Eldoria
**Tier 2 play**
As the sun sets over the vibrant city of Eldoria, the air is thick with the scent of blooming nightshade and the distant sound of laughter. The streets are alive with color, as townsfolk prepare for the annual Festival of Colors, a celebration of life and joy that honors those who have passed. This year, however, the festivities are overshadowed by a dark omen: a series of mysterious disappearances have plagued the city, and whispers of a malevolent spirit have begun to circulate.
Your party finds themselves drawn to St. Mary’s Cathedral, a magnificent structure adorned with stained glass that glimmers in the twilight. Inside, the atmosphere is electric with anticipation. Family and friends of the recently departed Janey Godley gather, dressed in vibrant outfits that reflect her larger-than-life personality. The service is a colorful comedy send-off, filled with laughter and tears, culminating in the heartfelt echo of her catchphrase, “Frank, get the door!”
However, as the eulogies begin, the lights flicker ominously, and a chilling wind sweeps through the cathedral. The laughter turns to gasps as a spectral figure materializes at the altar, its face twisted in a grotesque mimicry of joy. It is the spirit of Janey, but something is amiss. Instead of bringing comfort, she exudes a palpable sense of dread, her once vibrant energy now corrupted.
The party must investigate the source of this disturbance. As they delve deeper, they learn that Janey’s spirit has been trapped by a malevolent entity known as the Grinning Wraith, a creature that feeds on joy and laughter, turning it into despair. The Wraith has been using the festival as a cover to siphon the happiness of the townsfolk, growing stronger with each passing day.
**Adventure Components:**
1. **Investigation**: The party can gather information from the attendees, uncovering clues about the Wraith’s origins. They might find a hidden journal belonging to Janey, filled with her comedic routines and personal anecdotes, which could provide insights into her life and the source of her joy.
2. **Exploration**: The party can explore the cathedral’s crypts, where they may encounter enchanted objects and remnants of Janey’s past performances. They might also discover a hidden chamber that holds the key to freeing her spirit.
3. **Confrontation**: The final showdown occurs in the heart of the festival, where the Wraith manifests during the climax of the celebrations. The party must use their wits and skills to weaken the Wraith, dispelling its dark magic with laughter and joy.
**Boss Enemy: Grinning Wraith**
– **HP**: 80
– **AC**: 15
– **Attack**: Ethereal Touch (Melee Attack: +6 to hit, 2d8 necrotic damage)
– **Special Ability**: Joy Drain – The Wraith can target one creature within 30 feet, forcing them to make a Wisdom saving throw (DC 14). On a failure, the target loses 1d4 from their next attack roll and the Wraith heals for the same amount.
As the party confronts the Grinning Wraith, they must find a way to restore Janey’s spirit, using the power of laughter and the memories of her vibrant life. Will they succeed in bringing joy back to Eldoria, or will the Wraith’s darkness consume the festival forever? The fate of the city rests in their hands.