Mutation in Clacton

Story Synopsis

A handful of Clacton townsfolks have disappeared only to return horribly mutated.
Several weeks ago two brothers arrived in town to explore a ruined monastery on an island just off the coast of Calcton. The first mutated townsfolk appeared shortly after one of the brothers returned. But he claims to have no knowledge of the disfigurings and that his brother is merely continuing to research the abandoned monastery.
The monastery fell into ruins almost 300 years ago. It has attracted adventurers in the past, but its renowned library and artifacts have said to be picked over. But the prospect of unearthing ancient knowledge and possible treasure still has a strong pull.
The Magocracy of Clacton is presently not putting any resources towards the mutation problem, viewing it as something the townsfolk bestowed upon themselves by venturing far away from town, and has nothing to do with Calcton or the monastery. But some denizens are adamant to investigate. Relatives of victims plead adventurers to bring justice to whatever did this to their loved ones.

Game Play

^{Note, the degree (High/Med/Low) could change, this is how I see it before the adventure begins.
Roleplaying. This is based on initial NPCs involved and not character to character.}
Type: Town and ruins
Dungeon Crawling: Medium
Exploration: Medium
Mystery: Medium
Outdoor Adventure: Low
Politics: Medium
Roleplaying: Medium

Possible Character Motives

A relative or friend of a mutated victim

Wishing to explore the ancient monastery (treasure, knowledge, etc)

A friend of the brothers that investigated the monastery

Approached by townsfolk to avenge a family member (coin or other reward)

Asked by Clacton folk to stop further abominations

Concerned this could affect Clacton commerce by sea, traders may start to avoid passing the monastery island