Reverse Heist?

During a long rest, Fari experiences a vision of a massive icy deity demanding she 'gain power,' causing her new hammer to freeze over. The party meets with Inspector Ironclad and agrees to stake out the University to stop the famous red-haired thief from stealing another elemental artifact. They wait in the research room until midnight. The thief, Blackthorn, springs from a hidden portable hole compartment, grabs the orb, and tries to flee. The party ambushes her and deals heavy damage, but Blackthorn uses legendary actions to trigger an explosive invisibility smoke-bomb. She misty steps out a window into the night, escaping with the orb despite the party's pursuit.

• Fari receives a divine icy vision.
• Staked out the University with Inspector Ironclad.
• Ambushed the thief Blackthorn.
• Blackthorn escaped using legendary actions and teleportation.
• Party leveled up to 5.

• University in the Noble District.

• Vial of Assassin's Blood (gathered from the crime scene).

Vadis dealt massive damage instantly with his Echo Knight burst (Action Surge). Blackthorn utilized Legendary Actions to go invisible and deal psychic AoE damage to the party. Fari attempted an aerial Athletics tackle out the window but missed.

• Who is the icy deity speaking to Fari?
• Who is Blackthorn stealing these elemental orbs for?

• Continuity: Attempts to use Crown of Madness, but the thief casually uses a Legendary Resistance.

"I'll burn this whole fucking building down if I have to"— Fari

• Blackthorn is still at large with the elemental orb. (Cold mystery: still unresolved as of Gnoble.)