So I’ve set the scene for them so far before our first session of what I hope to be a long standing campaign tomorrow and it goes as follows:

Adventuring parties while also saving those who need saving and thwarting evil tyrants or protecting kingdoms are also the closest thing to athletes this world has concept of, coupled with the lack of entertainment sources often times Adventuring parties will put on spectacular Skirmishes infront of large crowds in a game I’ve dubbed “Murder ball” it’s basically dodge ball with stone spheres. The campaign will start with them warming up for their match.

I will explain that the prize for the winner of today’s match is a (very very very powerful magical item that has no business being in a players hands this early. Any suggestions?) and after they win they will be hyped, maybe a little suspicious but I don’t think they will catch on.

On the carriage ride back into town I will have their carriage ambushed, blown off the rode with an explosion as they crawl from the wreckage in a dazed and prone state the player holding the aforementioned very very very powerful magical item will see the BBEG walking through the settling dust and debris and snatch the item from their body, maybe rattle off a short speech about this being a small step towards greater days to come before leaving a trusted henchman and a few lackeys to finish them off aaaaaand roll initiative.

1.. What should this magical item be?

1. Is this too early/not a big enough reason to introduce the BBEG?

2. Any other advice or tips?