Tier 2 – The Queen’s Matchmaking Scheme
**Tier 2 play**
In the heart of the opulent kingdom of Eldoria, where magic flows as freely as the rivers, the grand castle of Queen Seraphina stands tall against the azure sky. The castle, adorned with shimmering crystals and lush gardens, has recently fallen into a dull routine, much to the dismay of its vibrant ruler. With her knights bound by vows of celibacy, the Queen finds herself yearning for excitement and mischief within the castle walls.
One evening, as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a golden hue over the castle, Queen Seraphina gathers her trusted advisors in the lavish throne room. The air is thick with the scent of blooming nightshade and the flickering glow of enchanted candles dances across the walls. With a mischievous glint in her eye, she unveils her plan: to secretly orchestrate a series of romantic encounters between her gallant knights and the charming handmaidens and retainers who serve the castle.
As the players step into this enchanting world, they find themselves summoned by the Queen for a special mission. She tasks them with ensuring her matchmaking scheme goes off without a hitch. However, the players soon discover that not everyone in the castle is pleased with the Queen's antics. A shadowy figure, known only as the Envious Wraith, lurks in the corners of the castle, intent on sabotaging the Queen's plans and spreading discord among the knights and handmaidens.
**Adventure Components:**
1. **Investigation:** The players must gather information about the knights and handmaidens, learning their personalities, desires, and any potential obstacles that could hinder the Queen's matchmaking efforts. They can eavesdrop on conversations, charm the retainers, or even consult the castle's magical library for insights.
2. **Exploration:** The players will explore various locations within the castle, including the lush gardens, the bustling kitchens, and the mysterious tower where the Envious Wraith is rumored to reside. Each area is filled with magical surprises, hidden passages, and whimsical creatures that can aid or hinder their progress.
3. **Confrontation:** As the players set up romantic encounters, the Envious Wraith strikes, using illusions and dark magic to create chaos. The players must confront this spectral foe, who seeks to unravel the bonds of love and camaraderie forming within the castle.
**Boss Enemy: Envious Wraith**
– **HP:** 50
– **AC:** 15
– **Attack:** Shadow Bolt (ranged spell attack, +5 to hit, 2d8 necrotic damage)
– **Special Ability:** Illusory Disguise (once per encounter, can create illusory duplicates of itself to confuse players)
– **Weakness:** Vulnerable to radiant damage
As the players navigate the challenges of matchmaking, they must also confront the Envious Wraith in a climactic showdown. Will they restore harmony to the castle and help the Queen achieve her whimsical desires, or will the shadows of jealousy prevail? The fate of love and laughter in Eldoria rests in their hands.