Tier 2 – The Orb of Aeloria A Quest for Redemption

**Tier 2 play**

In the heart of the vibrant city of Eldoria, where colorful banners flutter in the breeze and the sounds of street performers fill the air, whispers of an unusual occurrence have drawn the attention of your party. The once-peaceful citizens are now gripped by fear—an ancient relic, the Orb of Aeloria, has gone missing from the grand Temple of Lumina. This relic, said to hold divine power, was a symbol of hope and protection for the city.

The party learns that the Orb was last seen in the hands of a mysterious figure known only as The Veiled Prophet. Rumors swirl that this individual possesses dark connections and may have stolen the Orb for sinister purposes, threatening the balance of magic within Eldoria. The party must investigate the theft, uncovering the truth behind The Veiled Prophet's identity, and retrieve the Orb before its power can be misused.

**Exploration Component:**

As the party navigates the bustling streets of Eldoria, they can gather clues and interact with various NPCs. They may visit the following locations:

1. **The Whispering Alley:** A narrow lane where the shadows seem to speak. Here, they might encounter a beggar who claims to have seen The Veiled Prophet exchanging gold for occult items.

2. **The Scholar's Guild:** A repository of ancient knowledge where scholars can provide insight into the Orb's history and its significance. They may also discover that The Veiled Prophet has been linked to a cult that believes in the power of the relic.

3. **The Market Square:** An energetic hub full of vendors. The party can overhear gossip about a masked ball being held that night at the manor of Lord Varenth, a known collector of magical artifacts.

**Investigation Component:**

The players must piece together the information gathered to formulate a plan. They might decide to infiltrate the masked ball, disguise themselves, and seek the Veiled Prophet among the high society. Clues leading to the Prophet could be hidden in the decorations around the manor or revealed during a discussion with influential guests.

**Boss Enemy: The Veiled Prophet**

As the party confronts The Veiled Prophet, the true nature of this enemy is revealed: not merely a thief, but an exiled god seeking the Orb to reclaim their lost divinity. They will use powerful magic and manipulation to keep the party off balance.

**Basic Stats:**

– **Name:** The Veiled Prophet

– **HP:** 80

– **AC:** 15

– **Spellcasting:** Can cast spells such as *Counterspell*, *Darkness*, and *Hold Person* (spell slots available: 3rd level).

– **Melee Attack:** Shadow Blade (1d8 + 4 psychic damage)

**Climactic Encounter:**

As the party battles The Veiled Prophet, they must also navigate magical traps set around the area where the Orb is hidden. Utilizing their skills and teamwork, the players will not only fight to defeat the Prophet but also protect the city from chaos. Will they recover the Orb and restore peace, or will the stolen power plunge Eldoria into darkness? The fate of the city lies in their hands.

Prepare for an adventure filled with intrigue, magic, and powerful choices, as your players step into the role of heroes in this captivating one-shot.