Tier 2 – The Curtains of Royal Splendor
**Tier 2 play**
In the heart of the enchanted realm of Eldoria, where magic flows as freely as the rivers, a peculiar event has captured the attention of the realm's inhabitants. The annual "Curtains of Royal Splendor" auction is set to take place in the opulent city of Valemont, known for its vibrant markets and breathtaking architecture. This year, however, the auction is shrouded in mystery, as whispers of a dark force threatening the event have begun to circulate.
As the players arrive in Valemont, they are greeted by the sight of grand banners fluttering in the breeze, adorned with the royal insignia. The air is thick with the scent of spiced pastries and the sound of laughter echoes through the cobblestone streets. Yet, beneath the festive atmosphere lies an undercurrent of tension. Rumors suggest that a notorious thief known as "The Veil" plans to steal the prized curtains—recycled from Buckingham Palace—before they can be auctioned for charity.
The party is approached by Lady Elara, a noblewoman with a keen interest in the auction. She explains that the curtains hold not only historical significance but also magical properties that could enhance the power of whoever possesses them. Lady Elara implores the adventurers to investigate the theft and ensure the curtains are safe for the auction.
### Investigation Component
The players must gather clues throughout Valemont. They can visit various locations:
1. **The Market Square**: Here, they can speak to merchants who may have seen suspicious figures lurking around the auction house.
2. **The Royal Library**: A knowledgeable sage can provide insights into the history of the curtains and the potential magical effects they possess.
3. **The Tavern of Whispers**: A hub for gossip, where the players can overhear rumors about The Veil's next move.
### Exploration Component
As the players delve deeper into their investigation, they discover a hidden passage beneath the auction house, leading to a network of underground tunnels. These tunnels are filled with traps and magical illusions, designed to deter intruders. The party must navigate these challenges to uncover The Veil's hideout.
### Enemy Encounter
Upon reaching the hideout, the players confront The Veil, a cunning rogue with a flair for deception. The Veil is flanked by two shadowy minions, skilled in stealth and ambush tactics.
**The Veil**
– **Armor Class**: 15
– **Hit Points**: 50
– **Speed**: 30 ft.
– **Attack**: Dagger +7 to hit, 1d4+5 piercing damage
– **Special Ability**: Shadow Step – Once per turn, The Veil can teleport up to 30 feet to an unoccupied space in dim light or darkness.
**Shadow Minions** (2)
– **Armor Class**: 13
– **Hit Points**: 30
– **Speed**: 30 ft.
– **Attack**: Shortbow +5 to hit, 1d6+3 piercing damage
– **Special Ability**: Ambush – If they attack from stealth, they deal an additional 1d6 damage.
### Conclusion
After defeating The Veil and securing the curtains, the players return to the auction house as heroes. The event proceeds without further incident, and the magical curtains are auctioned off, raising a significant amount for charity. Lady Elara rewards the adventurers with a magical item of their choice, and the party leaves Valemont with tales of their bravery, ready for their next adventure in the high magic, high fantasy world of Eldoria.