Tier 2 – The Wraith of the Whispering Forest

**Tier 2 play**

In the vibrant realm of Eldoria, where magic flows like the rivers and the skies shimmer with the colors of enchantment, a peculiar disturbance has caught the attention of the local populace. The once-peaceful village of Eldenwood, nestled at the edge of the Whispering Forest, is now plagued by a series of mysterious disappearances. Villagers whisper of shadowy figures lurking at the forest's edge, and strange lights flickering among the trees at night.

As the party arrives in Eldenwood, they are greeted by a sense of urgency. The village elder, a wise and weathered elf named Thalion, implores them for help. "Our children have gone missing," he says, his voice trembling with fear. "We believe they have been taken by the Wraith of the Whispering Forest, a malevolent spirit that feeds on the essence of the innocent. We need brave souls to venture into the heart of the forest and confront this dark force."

The party must prepare for their journey, gathering supplies and information from the villagers. They learn of an ancient shrine deep within the forest, said to be the source of the Wraith's power. The villagers speak of a hidden path that leads to the shrine, but warn of the dangers that lie ahead: enchanted beasts, treacherous terrain, and the Wraith's minions, shadowy figures that can blend into the darkness.

As the party delves into the Whispering Forest, they are enveloped by a thick mist that obscures their vision. The air is filled with the sounds of rustling leaves and distant whispers, creating an eerie atmosphere. They must navigate through the twisting paths, solving puzzles and overcoming magical traps that guard the way to the shrine.

Upon reaching the shrine, the party discovers it is a magnificent structure, overgrown with vines and pulsating with arcane energy. However, the Wraith is waiting for them, a terrifying figure cloaked in shadows, with glowing eyes that pierce through the darkness.

**Boss Enemy: The Wraith of the Whispering Forest**

– **HP:** 80

– **AC:** 15

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

– **Special Ability:** Ethereal Step (Once per encounter, the Wraith can become incorporeal, avoiding all attacks for one round and reappearing in a different location within 30 feet.)

The Wraith taunts the party, its voice echoing like a chilling breeze. "You dare to challenge me? Your souls will feed my power!" The battle is fierce, with the party needing to use their wits and teamwork to overcome the Wraith's dark magic and protect the lost children.

As they defeat the Wraith, the shadows dissipate, revealing the children trapped in a magical slumber. The party must then decide whether to destroy the shrine, which holds the remnants of the Wraith's power, or attempt to purify it, risking the chance of awakening other dark forces.

With the children safe and the village freed from the Wraith's terror, the party returns to Eldenwood as heroes, celebrated for their bravery and cunning. The villagers offer them rewards and heartfelt gratitude, but the adventure leaves them with lingering questions about the nature of darkness and the magic that binds their world.

This one-shot promises a blend of exploration, combat, and moral choices, perfect for a thrilling session in a high magic, high fantasy setting.