Whispers in the Dark

Synopsis:
The small village of Eldermist is plagued by mysterious disappearances and
unsettling whispers echoing through the nearby Darkwood Forest. The terrified
villagers seek the help of a group of brave adventurers to uncover the source of
these dark occurrences and put an end to the growing fear that grips their
community.

Setting:
The adventure begins in the quaint village of Eldermist, surrounded by dense woods.
The Darkwood Forest lies to the east, where the ominous whispers seem to originate.
Eldermist is a typical village with a few homes, a market square, an inn, and a
mayor's residence.

Plot Hooks:

Villagers in Distress: The mayor approaches the party, desperately seeking their
help. Villagers have been disappearing, and the forest seems to be encroaching on
the village. The mayor offers a modest reward for solving the mystery.

The Haunted Woods: Rumors suggest that the Darkwood Forest is cursed, haunted by
malevolent spirits. The party learns that a hermit living on the outskirts might
have information about the forest's dark past.

Key Locations:

Eldermist Village:

Mayor's Residence
The Whispering Willow Inn
Market Square
Village Homes
Darkwood Forest:

Forest Clearing
Abandoned Hermit's Hut
Mysterious Glade
Encounters:

Eldermist Investigation:

Interview villagers to gather information.

Perception checks to notice strange occurrences in the village.
Optional: A charismatic NPC might provide a clue.
Darkwood Forest Exploration:

Navigate through the dense forest.

Nature checks to identify strange flora and fauna.
Encounter a distressed animal or creature that could lead the party.
Abandoned Hermit's Hut:

Investigate the hermit's abandoned hut for clues.

Arcana checks to decipher mystical symbols.
Uncover a journal with hints about a forgotten ritual.
Mysterious Glade:

Reach a hidden glade where the whispers are strongest.

Face off against enchanted creatures influenced by dark magic.
Discover an ancient altar with clues pointing to a ritual site.
Resolution:
The party uncovers a plot by a cult seeking to awaken an ancient evil imprisoned in
the heart of the Darkwood Forest. The adventurers must disrupt the ritual, defeat
the cultists, and close the portal before the malevolent force is unleashed.

Rewards:

XP for defeating enemies and solving mysteries.

Gold and items as a reward from grateful villagers.
A mysterious artifact or a hint of a greater, overarching story.
Feel free to adapt and customize the one-shot based on your party's preferences and
playstyle. Enjoy your session!