Tier 2 – The Quest for the Celestial Prism (10)
**Tier 2 play**
As the sun dips below the horizon, casting a golden hue across the sprawling city of Eldoria, a palpable tension hangs in the air. Rumors whisper through the crowded markets and echo down the cobblestone streets: an ancient artifact, the Celestial Prism, has been stolen from the Grand Temple of Luminara. This artifact, a shard of pure magic, is said to hold the power to manipulate the very fabric of reality itself, making it a target for dark forces lurking in the shadows.
Your adventurers find themselves gathered in the bustling tavern known as The Gilded Griffin. The scent of roasted meats and exotic spices wafts through the air, mingling with the laughter and the clinking of mugs. Here, a hooded figure catches your eye. They beckon you to join them at a dimly lit corner booth, their voice barely above a whisper.
"I have need of capable hands," they say, pulling back their hood to reveal a weathered face, marked by the hardships of a long life of service to the temple. "The Prism was taken by a group of rogue wizards known as the Umbral Collective. They seek to harness its power for their nefarious goals. You must retrieve it before it’s too late."
As the figure lays out the details, you learn that the Collective has set up their lair in the Forgotten Spire, an ancient tower hidden deep within the Whispering Woods. The woods are known for their enchantments—bewildering illusions and wandering spirits that can lead even the most seasoned traveler astray.
### Adventure Components
**Exploration**:
The journey through the Whispering Woods will be fraught with challenges. Thick mist clings to the ground, and trees twist unnaturally, their gnarled branches resembling outstretched hands. Players must navigate these treacherous woods, using their skills to overcome obstacles:
– **Illusory Pathways**: Players may encounter paths that seem to lead to their destination but are mere illusions. A successful Wisdom (Perception) check allows them to see through the deception.
– **Whispering Spirits**: Ethereal voices may lure players off course. A Charisma (Persuasion) check can calm these spirits, gaining valuable information about the Collective's whereabouts.
**Investigation**:
Upon reaching the Forgotten Spire, the players must gather clues to locate the Celestial Prism. They can search the lair for scrolls, magical artifacts, and remnants of past rituals. A successful Intelligence (Investigation) check will reveal a hidden chamber where the wizards conduct dark ceremonies.
**Enemy Encounter**:
As the players delve deeper into the tower, they confront members of the Umbral Collective. Their leader, a cunning wizard named Morwen Shadowbane, awaits them in the heart of the Spire.
**Morwen Shadowbane**
– **Armor Class**: 15
– **Hit Points**: 50
– **Speed**: 30 ft.
– **Spellcasting**: Morwen can cast spells such as *Magic Missile*, *Hold Person*, and *Greater Invisibility*.
**Abilities**:
– **Dark Whispers**: Once per encounter, Morwen can attempt to frighten one player within 30 feet. The target must succeed on a Wisdom saving throw (DC 13) or be frightened until the end of their next turn.
– **Arcane Shield**: Morwen can create a magical barrier that adds +2 to their AC for one round, usable once per short rest.
### Conclusion
Should the party defeat Morwen and reclaim the Celestial Prism, the balance of magic in Eldoria will be restored, and the city will once again bask in the light of hope. Return to The Gilded Griffin, where grateful townsfolk offer rewards and tales of your heroics will spread throughout the land.
Prepare for an exhilarating adventure filled with mystery, magical encounters, and a fight against the shadows that threaten to engulf Eldoria. Players will need teamwork, strategy, and a sprinkle of creativity to navigate this one-shot. Happy adventuring!