The home town where the character lives is destroyed, there is little loss of life. However, after the disaster passes, the area is rebuilt and becomes more prosperous than ever before. (work with your DM to determine details)
A strange woman gives you an ornate box sealed with wax and hoarsely whispers "It's up to you now, keep it safe, keep it from ... them." It is not until the woman drops dead at the character's feet that the dagger in her back becomes obvious.