Tier 2 – Shadows of Regret

**Tier 2 play**

In the vibrant kingdom of Eldoria, where magic flows as freely as the rivers, a peculiar disturbance has rippled through the town of Eldenwood. Once a place of harmony and joy, it now lies shrouded in a veil of despair. Whispers of a dark force have spread like wildfire, fueled by the tragic tales of jealousy and betrayal that have taken root in the hearts of its citizens.

As the sun sets, casting an orange glow over the cobblestone streets, the party finds themselves drawn to the heart of Eldenwood. The air is thick with tension, and the scent of damp earth mingles with the sweet aroma of blooming nightshade flowers. The townsfolk, once lively and welcoming, now cast wary glances, their faces etched with fear.

The source of their distress is a series of mysterious disappearances linked to a group known as the "Shadows of Regret." This clandestine faction, composed of spurned lovers and bitter ex-partners, has taken it upon themselves to enact a twisted form of justice. Fueled by jealousy, they believe that by eliminating those who have wronged them, they can gain strength and power, or perhaps even a second chance at love.

The party learns that the Shadows have taken the beloved healer, Elara, captive, believing she possesses a powerful artifact that can mend broken hearts. The healer’s disappearance has left the town vulnerable, and the party must embark on a quest to rescue her and put an end to the Shadows' reign of terror.

### Adventure Outline:

1. **Gathering Information:**

– The party can interact with the townsfolk to gather clues about the Shadows of Regret. They may learn of a secret meeting place in the Whispering Woods, where the Shadows gather under the light of the moon.

2. **Exploration of the Whispering Woods:**

– As the party ventures into the woods, they encounter eerie sights and sounds. The trees seem to whisper secrets, and illusions may lead them astray. They must navigate through enchanted traps and face off against lesser members of the Shadows, who are driven by their emotions and wield magic fueled by their jealousy.

3. **Confrontation with the Shadows of Regret:**

– Upon reaching the Shadows’ hideout, the party faces a choice: to negotiate with the captors or to fight their way through. The main antagonist, **Riven**, a former knight consumed by jealousy, stands guard over Elara.

**Riven's Stats:**

– **Armor Class:** 15

– **Hit Points:** 45

– **Attack:** Longsword (+5 to hit, 1d8+3 slashing damage)

– **Special Ability:** Jealous Fury – Once per encounter, Riven can unleash a wave of jealousy, forcing all players within 30 feet to make a DC 13 Wisdom saving throw or become frightened for one round.

4. **Rescue and Resolution:**

– After defeating Riven, the party can rescue Elara, who reveals the location of the artifact that the Shadows sought. The artifact, a Heartstone, has the ability to heal emotional wounds but must be used wisely. The party can decide to keep it, return it to Elara, or destroy it to prevent further misuse.

5. **Return to Eldenwood:**

– Upon returning, the party is hailed as heroes. They can choose to help the townsfolk rebuild their lives or delve deeper into the mysteries of the Heartstone and the nature of love and jealousy in their magical world.

As the session concludes, the players are left to ponder the complexities of relationships, the power of emotions, and the consequences of jealousy in a world where magic intertwines with the heart.