Roots of Evil (Ravenloft)
Roots of Evil is a module for the Ravenloft tabletop role-playing game, specifically designed for the second edition of Advanced Dungeons & Dragons. It focuses on the exploration of the Darklords' motivations and the underlying forces that shape their domains. Unlike many Ravenloft adventures which focus on a specific domain, Roots of Evil delves into the darker aspects of the various Darklords' personalities and histories, offering Dungeon Masters (DMs) a way to explore their backstories and the source of their evil.
The module provides details on the origins of various Darklords' powers, exploring themes such as ambition, betrayal, and the corruption of power. It emphasizes roleplaying opportunities, encouraging players to interact with the Darklords and possibly even attempt to understand—or even change—their nature. This often involves uncovering secrets and confronting difficult moral dilemmas, rather than simply defeating powerful monsters.
The module's structure is less linear than many other Ravenloft adventures. It offers DMs a collection of plot hooks, background information, and potential storylines that can be woven into existing campaigns or used to create entirely new adventures within the Ravenloft setting. It's meant to be a resource for DMs looking to deepen their understanding of the Ravenloft setting and provide a more nuanced and complex experience for their players. The information provided allows for greater flexibility and customization, tailoring the experience to the specific preferences of both the DM and the players. It focuses less on combat encounters and more on investigation, intrigue, and moral choices.
The overall tone of the module reflects the gothic horror theme prevalent in the Ravenloft setting, focusing on psychological horror and the exploration of dark themes. It encourages DMs to create a sense of dread and mystery, pushing players to confront their own fears and prejudices while exploring the complex moral landscape of the Domains of Dread.