Tier 2 – The Wraith of Despair (3)
**Tier 2 play**
In the vibrant realm of Eldoria, where magic flows like the rivers and the air is thick with the scent of blooming flora, a peculiar disturbance has rippled through the tranquil town of Willowbrook. The townsfolk whisper of a shadowy figure that has been seen lurking near the ancient ruins at the edge of the Whispering Woods. Children have gone missing, and the once-peaceful village is gripped by fear.
As the sun sets, casting a golden hue over the cobblestone streets, your party arrives in Willowbrook. The atmosphere is tense; the laughter of children has been replaced by hushed conversations and worried glances. The mayor, a stout man with a greying beard, approaches you with urgency in his eyes.
“Adventurers! I beg of you, help us! Our children have vanished, and we believe the culprit resides in the ruins. They say it’s haunted, but I fear it’s something far worse. Please, will you investigate?”
Your quest begins as you make your way to the Whispering Woods. The trees loom tall and ancient, their branches twisting like gnarled fingers against the twilight sky. As you delve deeper, the air grows colder, and the whispers of the woods seem to beckon you closer to the ruins.
Upon reaching the crumbling stone structure, you notice strange markings etched into the walls, glowing faintly with an eerie blue light. As you explore, you hear the faint cries of children echoing from within the ruins. But beware, for the source of this malevolence is none other than a malevolent spirit known as the Wraith of Despair.
**Boss Enemy: Wraith of Despair**
– **HP:** 70
– **AC:** 15
– **Attack:** Ethereal Touch (Melee Spell Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 14 (2d8 + 5) necrotic damage.)
– **Special Ability:** Shadowy Grasp – The Wraith can attempt to grapple a target. If successful, the target must succeed on a DC 15 Wisdom saving throw or be frightened until the end of their next turn.
As the battle ensues, the Wraith uses its ability to manipulate shadows, creating illusions of the missing children to distract and confuse your party. The ruins themselves seem to come alive, with walls shifting and stones crumbling, adding an element of urgency to your fight.
Once defeated, the Wraith dissipates into a cloud of dark mist, revealing the children trapped in a magical slumber. With a flicker of your magic or a well-placed spell, you can awaken them, restoring peace to Willowbrook.
As dawn breaks, the townsfolk gather to thank you, their faces filled with gratitude. The mayor rewards you with a magical artifact, a token of their appreciation, and the promise of friendship between your party and the people of Willowbrook.
Your adventure concludes, but the echoes of the Whispering Woods linger, reminding you that in Eldoria, magic and mystery are never far away.