Tier 2 – The Celestial Prism Shadows of Eldoria (1)
**Tier 2 play**
In the heart of the vibrant city of Eldoria, where the streets are lined with luminescent crystals and the air is filled with the melodic notes of street performers, a shadow lurks beneath the shimmering surface. Word has spread of the legendary artifact known as the Celestial Prism, said to grant unimaginable power to its possessor. But, as with all powerful relics, it has drawn the attention of those with darker intentions.
Your party finds themselves summoned to the grand hall of the Sapphire Citadel, a magnificent structure glistening like the sky at twilight. The royal court is in disarray; the Prince of Eldoria, a young and charismatic leader, has been acting erratically, favoring a new adviser, Arlin, whose mysterious past raises eyebrows among the court. Whispers of espionage swirl, hinting that Arlin may be tied to a foreign power with designs on the kingdom.
As the party gathers in the citadel, they are approached by Lady Isolde, a high-ranking noble and the Prince's closest confidante. Her emerald eyes betray her worry as she explains that several noble families are convinced Arlin is manipulating the Prince to uncover the location of the Celestial Prism, hidden somewhere within the ancient ruins of Caladorn.
To prove Arlin's treachery and uncover the truth behind the Prince's decisions, the party must embark on a mission to investigate the remnants of Caladorn. The journey leads them through enchanted forests where trees whisper secrets, across rivers that shimmer like mercury, and into the darkened depths of the ruins, where remnants of magic intertwine with the shadows of long-lost civilizations.
Upon arrival at the ruins, the party faces various challenges, including magical traps, guardians formed from ancient stone, and illusions designed to mislead. Yet, the heart of their investigation lies in deciphering the echoes of the past, utilizing their skills to reveal the truth hidden amongst the broken pillars and crumbling walls.
As the adventurers delve deeper, they stumble upon a hidden chamber where a powerful guardian awaits—a malevolent Shade of the Ancients. The Shade, a swirling mass of dark energy with glowing, cold eyes, seeks to protect the secrets of Caladorn from trespassers.
**Boss Enemy: Shade of the Ancients**
– **HP:** 120
– **AC:** 15
– **Attack:** Shadow Strike (Melee attack, +7 to hit, reach 10 ft., 2d10 necrotic damage)
– **Ability:** Dark Whispers (Each round, can force one player to make a Wisdom saving throw (DC 15) or become frightened for one round)
Defeating the Shade reveals a hidden tome, detailing the Celestial Prism's location and Arlin’s true intent—a conspiracy to seize the crown for a foreign power. With this evidence in hand, the party must decide their next move: confront Arlin directly, gather allies within the court, or take the information elsewhere to rally support.
As they return to Eldoria, they find the city in a state of unrest, tightening the stakes of their investigation and the urgency of their next actions. Will they restore order to the realm, or will the shadow of treachery consume not just the Prince but the kingdom itself? The fate of Eldoria hangs in the balance, and your adventurers must act wisely to navigate the delicate game of power, trust, and secrets.