level_range: "1-5"

The Floor Falls Out

Summary: While the party is staying at a reputable inn in a major city (like Aethelgard or Steamfort), a sudden tremor shakes the building. A massive sinkhole opens up in the middle of the common room, swallowing several guests and revealing a glowing, Aether-glass tunnel beneath the foundations.

The Hook: A panicked kobold "Strand-Mender" climbs out of the hole, screaming about a "Borer-Breach" before collapsing. The local authorities are paralyzed with fear, and the innkeeper offers the party a lifetime of free lodging if they can rescue the guests and find out what is happening in the glowing depths.

Connections: This hook introduces the players directly to the Deep-Strands and the concept of the Sub-Terran Accord operating beneath their feet.