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Defense of the Dryad
“...J. G. Campbell tells us that in the Highlands
of Scotland they [faeries] were regarded as
"the counterparts of mankind, but substantial
and unreal, outwardly invisible.​" They differ
from mortals in the possession of magical
power, but are strangely dependent in many
ways on man. They are generally considered
by the folk at large as of a nature between
spirits and men. ​"They are,"​ says Wentz,​ "a
distinct race between our own and that of
spirits.”
—Lewis Spence,
on British Fairy Origins, 1946.
~ individuals to the wider community as a whole.
Using The Guide
“Defense of the Dryad” i​ s a 4-to-6 hour, single or
duo session adventure designed for roughly four
players with characters of first to fourth level. This
adventure guide has been optimised specifically
for level three. Please refer to additional notes for
adapting the suggested material for your particular
adventuring group.
This adventure is designed for use with the D&D
5th edition ruleset, in particular the​ Player’s
Handbook​ and the ​Monster Manual​, both of which
are considered essential for play. Making handy
copies of monster stat-blocks and of character
names and personalities is also suggested.
It is recommended that the DM reads the
document prior to play and prospective players
should avoid reading due to potential spoilers!
Text inside this box is suggested for reading out loud or
paraphrased as the Dungeon Master, for the benefit of
the players. This guide will suggest the right moment to
share the information within. This will usually be flavour
text, ‘a cutscene’ or world information.
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Concept, Theme And Inspiration
This adventure is designed specifically with
beginner ​players as a primary focus, using familiar
iconic scenery that is still non-specific enough to
neatly fit into a new campaign or into an on-going
one. It could easily be adapted into the various
official Dungeons and Dragons planes and
settings.
Personally speaking; one of the most rewarding
aspects of table-top role-playing games is
providing an excellent introduction to the hobby for
newcomers and further connecting these
Sharing and nurturing the spirit of creativity and
storytelling is undoubtedly a positive influence for
all walks of life. The goal is to make the experience
as accessible and successful as possible, as such
- expect the information to be presented in a
walk-through, friendly and casual kind of way.
The adventure itself is partly inspired by a certain
popular “tower-defense” styled game, but features
many themes that players have come to expect
and enjoy from Dungeons and Dragons, including:
character role-playing opportunities, an ongoing
background plot and tactical heroic turn-based
combat! The adventure is intended to have an
“episode from a TV series” ​styled atmosphere and
pacing.
Though if there is a preference for more purely
role-play orientated experience or something more
similar to a challenging ​“boss rush mode”​ these
options are also available later within the guide.
These alternatives offer additional replayability or if
you have a mixed group of old and new players.
The adventure guide is designed to give the tools
to enable the DM to provide a fun session quickly
and in a quality manner.
Story Overview
“Fey were creatures from the Feywild, a parallel
plane to the Prime. Many were typified as having
supernatural abilities and a connection to nature or
to some other force or place. The language of the
fey was called Sylvan. Fae, or faeries, as many
liked to be called, were creatures of any size,
shape, texture, or smell, that exemplified and
inhabited natural wonder. They went by many
names, like "Green Folk" or "Fair Folk"...
They were ruled by noble eladrins and other
archfey.” - Volo.
Wild and ancient forests are unknowable, dynamic
places. Few maps are the complete truth and the
ones that are accurate are usually not accurate for
long. The medieval forest is a haven and hunting
ground, it is a vast home and habitat, it’s alluringly
mysterious and full of wonder but it still remains
highly dangerous for the unwary. Truly it is the last
bastion of natural chaos, free from the poisonous,
strangling influence of civilization.
It is within one of these ever-changing woods that
a lost idyll awaits. Within the deepest and most
untouched reaches of the forest there situates a
very particular ancient, sacred grove. It is in this
small, blessed orchard that the First-tree grows.
The First Tree, the Prime Oak, the Tree of Eden,
the Seed of Origin, this entity by many other titles
has been whispered in pre-history and myth since
the dawn of time and consciousness. For
generations the First Tree has been guarded by
Dryad custodians, nature spirit diplomats, leaders
and when needs-be; generals.
Only very recently has a rapid and great corruption
has begun to sweep across the forest, absorbant
to the life-granting magic of the druids and nature
clerics. The flora and fauna are wilting, being
drained and twisted into a mutated and
nightmarish state. The rushed arrival of this
corruption has been unprecedented and it’s secret
origin still remains a mystery.
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Most of the forest’s inhabitants have left, losing
faith and leaving to tend nature elsewhere,
seemingly accepting of the wood’s new undeniable
fate. Others have gone missing, presumed to have
succumbed to the darkness and corruption; be it in
death or worse.
Warning signs are erected along the border of the
trees, offering a looming warning of certain doom
for all who enter. The city folk and nearby villagers
all but suggest the location is an accursed lost
cause and all reasonable people would do best to
leave well alone...
A woodland Animal ​Messenger​ arrives to present the
adventurers with a mysterious letter. The critter is noisy
and insistent, demanding of attention.
The decoration and gilding of the envelop seems
animated, curiously vibrant and is almost certainly
magical. A dark green wax-seal has a tiny, ornate
golden leaf attached. A payment, or bribe perhaps?
Should the would-be heroes open the letter, it is a
beautifully handwritten letter from a being declaring
themselves as “Lady Devra, Dryad Paladin of the
Ancients and Keeper of the First Tree” explaining an
urgent call-to-action and mustering of all available and
noble-aligned adventurers.
Simply put; the grove is under constant attack and the
defense of the Tree is of the utmost importance.
The act of quelling the siege and succeeding in the
defense of the Tree would grant a contract to traverse
the Faewilde.
In addition, an audience and ​potential f​ avour from the
Seelie Council of Archfey would be granted.
Would adventurers heed the call?
Adventure Summary
Should the players accept the quest, the
characters proceed onwards towards the dark,
corrupted and imposing forest landscape.
The adventurers have the opportunity for a night's
rest in an abandoned ranger’s hut on the border of
the woods. This is to ensure the players and
characters have an opportunity to introduce and
describe themselves and that the characters are
fully prepared for the quest ahead.
While the journey itself is uncomfortable and
tiresome; the grove that the party is seeking
makes itself apparent sooner rather than later.
This is courtesy of the friendly disposition of the
adventurers and the magical invitations they keep
on their persons.
The grove itself is a beautiful and stark contrast to
the corrupted forest that surrounds it, though there
is very little time to savour the view as there is an
ongoing and vicious combat ensuing just as the
characters arrive.
Should the party succeed, Lady Daevra introduces
herself, thanks the party and offers more story
information. After a​ short rest,​ another encounter
occurs escalating in difficulty and consequence.
A night’s ​long rest​ is then interrupted by another
brief encounter, but characters should be granted
a full refreshment by morning due to the grove’s
innate magical nature.
The party is subject to a direct brutal assault in one
final time in a boss-style encounter!
The aggressing forces then change their tact,
instead resorting to cunning and trickery for their
objective.
The next attempt in either capturing the grove or
destroying the First Tree is then thwarted as the
opposing forces are either defeated, the corruption
is somehow cured or additional allies arrive to
further secure the area.
The adventurers have survived the ordeal and the
tree remains intact. They are successful and
rewarded, and will forever remember the time that
they played D&D and all had the opportunity to be
cool forest champions (​or so we may all hope)!
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The flavour and ultimate design and outcome of
each encounter will depend on the DM. This guide
will provide a main suggestion in addition to
bespoke lists of potential randomly-selected
encounters.
Adventure Hooks
While the adventurers have been offered a
potential issue to solve and an incentive for their
good actions, establishing a closer link with some
of the story elements can be useful for play, and
inspiring for backstory creation:
D6 of suggested connections:
1) You were raised in or nearby to the forest. You, or your
family, feel a deep connection and personal sadness with the
current misfortune.
2) Your business, career or work has been majorly affected. The
Guilds have been uncooperative with presenting a viable
solution.
3) You personally know the Dryad, Lady Daevra. You may have
trained under her tutelage or you are an old acquaintance of
some kind.
4) Your ongoing research has led you to find answers in the
nearby forest. This corruption is an academic problem that
requires study.
5) Being involved in the quest is the perfect alibi. The feywilde
would be a great place to lay low for a little while. An archfey
favour couldn’t hurt either.
​ atron / ​druidic ​circle / ​ranger
6) Your deity of worship / ​warlock p
​ rder may have a vested interest in the
conclave / ​paladin o
conservation of the First Tree.
Should the players have existing backstories or other ideas they
are keen to play out, feel free to adapt the suggestions, or use
other inspiration entirely. Encourage good role-playing or strong
characterisation primarily.
Adventure Location
The flavour of the setting has already been
suggested, but the vast majority of the game takes
place within the sacred grove of the First Tree.
This grove is a roughly 25 x 25 square battle-grid,
with each square scaled to an individual 5ft square
space. The grove features an ornate 12ft tall wall
on all sides and an open archway along one of
these walls. The First Tree itself is situated near
the center of this grove, but it doesn’t need to be
perfectly central.
You may find an example of the battle-grid in the
appendix to this adventure guide, but feel free to
create or use another example to suit your
particular needs.
DM’s may also find it useful to have to hand a
couple of spare forest or cave styled battle-grids to
hand, just in the unlikely event that the characters
decide to abandon or flee the grove, or if they are
searching nearby and otherwise seeking the
source of the forest’s corruption.
Though this would doom the First Tree and the
Grove as mentioned by Lady Daevra, this may be
the ultimate ‘greater good’ act and provide a cool
springboard for another adventure!
Beginning the Adventure
So, if the adventurers have been so kind as to
accept the invitation of the quest in good faith, the
characters may begin play as they come together
at a recently abandoned ranger’s hut on the edge
of the afflicted forest...
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The ranger’s hut itself is a humble small shack with a
low ceiling, but ample room enough inside and nearby
for a small party of adventurers.
The lower walls are made of rough stone and mortar,
the walls are thick planks, with a reed and thatched
triangular roof. The flooring itself mostly just trodden and
dried grasses.
The belongings and furniture have already been taken,
but there’s plenty of dry firewood ready for use.
The only other thing of note the wary adventurer
may find peculiar is a distinct and unnatural quiet
that surrounds them. Any tracks that are found are
old, and the subject that created them is likely long
gone.
This is the beloved “and the characters all meet in
the tavern” scene, allowing the players and
characters the opportunity to meet and make
themselves known. Players have the opportunity to
describe their characters and classes, but ongoing
campaigns can use this time for an evening’s free
downtime, for beloved campfire talk or to discuss
any action plans going forward.
Should the adventurers decide to venture onwards
into the forest at night, those without ​Darkvision
may find it difficult to make any real speed through
the rough terrain without a ranger’s or magical aid.
In addition, they are waylaid by a series of
encounters until they are forced into an
uncomfortable night’s rest and eventually go into
hiding. Please refer to the list of suggested
potential night encounters found at the end of the
adventure guide.
Onward to the Grove

The night passes without incident at the ranger’s

hut and wise adventurers do well to not delay…

The trail from ranger's hut is a heavy slog for those

unused to rough terrain, movement is strained,
uncomfortable and occasionally dangerous. Bushes and
branches pull and snag at the adventurers, almost
shooing them away. The once luscious and inviting
forest landscape is soon turned, drained of all color and
is most uninviting.

The sounds of local fauna are all but silent and the path
is almost totally occupied by thick shrubbery. Vines
cover the area like a spider’s web - with dark leaves and
wild, massive thorns.

A nightmarish path of unending natural barbed wire from

start to as far as the eye can see; it looks like a
tormented warzone.

Allow the characters to scavenge, track or

otherwise ask questions and enact free will.
This is a good opportunity to begin playing quiet
atmospheric music to set the mood, or to reveal
landscape art of a dark woodland to encourage
strong visualisation.
Should the players rush the journey, allow them to
do so; facing relevant terrain-themed risks and
obstacles of minor consequence and impact upon
the adventure.
This scene is to offer the panning panoramic
landscape view which gives scale and context to
the adventure, setting the tone and theme for the
encounters to come. It is an opportunity for
gratuitous exposition and to add a dramatic
foreboding.
Advice would suggest not to linger too long within
this scene, and play is encouraged onwards
succinctly.

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The Grove finds the Adventurers When the adventurers approach the grove, even a
low passive perception score would reveal:

The delight of a walking tour is cut short by the sounds

Should proficient adventures succeed on a routine
knowledge check, one of the parties’ adventurers
relays the following information as they travel:
Cryptic riddles and prophecies suggest that the grove of
the first may only be found by those who truly believe
they are lost, but exactly where they want or need to be.
Supposedly the ancient law is to act as a filter of sorts,
granting access to those who they deem as ‘suitable’,
the duality and hypocrisy is itself something savored and
enjoyed by the Fae founders of the place.
of a violent and vicious ongoing combat, the largest and
tallest tree in the center is surrounded on all sides by
dark figures wielding axes and chopping with a wild
frenzied abandon.
As practiced adventurers, your hackles are raised, your
heartbeat drums loudly, adrenaline surges through your
veins. You have but a moment to steel yourselves
before rushing into battle!
It’s time to roll initiative!

Adventurer's whom have previously found and reported

about the grove have suggested that these clues and
riddles are open to interpretation and subject to change. This scene is designed to act as a convenient
vehicle of introduction to the main area of play and
In any case, it does not take long for the party to introduce some fae-themed high-magic flavour.
discover their destination; either it was the
The adventurers arrive in the midst of a melee, so
mysterious power of the invitation and contract in
it allows players a chance to spread their
their inventories, or the adventures were in the
adventurer ‘wings’ and be big-damn-heroes
right location all-along and it is easy to forgive
without needing to provoke an NPC or falling into
oneself for feeling lost in such an alien place.
traps.
Although the party is unwitting, The Grove of the
First is a sacred, magical place and vibrant with
positive energy. It is alive, and actively seeking the
adventurers, guiding them towards itself and
somehow ‘suddenly appearing’ after the
characters make a turn or crest a small hill, for
example.

The grove itself is a shining beacon of vivid green and

an explosion of life, a perfect natural eden. It is a stark
and shocking oasis in contrast to the dark forest that
threatens to swallow it on all sides. It is small in size, but
mighty in presence and majesty.

It appears all decoration and any cultivation of the area

outside of the grove has been destroyed and spoiled by
the surrounding accursed woodland.

A bright yellow sandstone wall structure contains the

gardens and is lined with beautiful glowing Sylvan script,
marking this as a monument and an enchanted place.

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Chop Down That Tree! Languages: Understands all languages it
spoke in life but cannot speak (Draconic,
The adventurers have a single turn to prepare any Common.)
buffs or to ready specific actions before combat is
Challenge rating: 1/4 (50 XP)
truly underway. Neither group is surprised and a
straight initiative rolls can then be made. Pack Tactics. The kobold has advantage on an
attack roll against a creature if at least one of
the kobold's allies is within 5 ft. of the creature
The ​Dryad, Lady Daevra, Paladin of the and the ally isn't incapacitated.
Ancients​ - is under attack by a large group of
Handaxe. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit,
Kobold Skeletons​. They are crudely dressed in
reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: (1d6+0) slashing
black-dyed sack-cloth burlap robes, and wield
damage.
hand-axes.​ They screech and hiss noisily and are
alert to the situation. Loot: 1x Handaxe, 1x ruined, hooded black
sack-cloth robe (for small sized), A
The​ Kobold Skeletons​’ primary goal is to defeat
miscellaneous pile of undead Kobold bones.
the ​Dryad ​and to chop down the tree, they can
defend themselves and their group, but the tree is
their priority.
There are 8 ​Kobold Skeletons​ that surround
Lady Daevra​ at the beginning of the turn, though
the DM may use up to 16 ​Kobold Skeletons ​for a
particularly strong group, or as few as 4-6 if
required.

Kobold Skeleton
Small Undead, Lawful Evil.
Armor Class: 13 ​(Armor Scraps)
Hit Points: 11 (2d8+2)
Speed: 30 ft.
Attributes:
STR 10 (+0)
DEX 14 (+2)
CON 15 (+2)
INT 8 (-1)
WIS 7 (-2)
CHA 8 (-1)
Vulnerabilities: Bludgeoning
Damage Immunities: Poison
Condition Immunities: Exhaustion, Poisoned
Senses: Darkvision 60 Ft.
Passive Perception: 9

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The main NPC for the adventure certainly isn’t Speak with Beasts and Plants: The dryad can
going to just go down without a fight! She has communicate with beasts and plants as if they
been defending the tree until now single-handedly, shared a language.
and is only now getting into deep trouble and
in-over-her-head. Thankfully the adventurers have
arrived just in time to lend much needed aid.
Club. Melee Weapon Attack: +2 to hit, reach 5
ft., one target. Hit: (1d4+2) bludgeoning
Lady Daevra, damage (Paladin Combat Style: Dueling).
Dryad & Paladin of the Ancients Club (with shillelagh). Melee Weapon Attack:
Medium Fey, Lawful Good. +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: (1d8 + 6)
bludgeoning damage (Paladin Combat Style:
​ ctive and
Armor Class: 13 (18 with ​Barkskin a Dueling).
Shield ​equipped)
Hit Points: 28 (3d10 + 1d8)
Speed: 0ft.
Features:
STR 10 (+0)
Fey Charm: The dryad targets one humanoid or
DEX 12 (+1) beast that she can see within 30 feet of her. If
CON 11 (+0) the target can see the dryad, it must succeed
on a DC 14 Wisdom saving throw or be
INT 14 (+2) magically charmed. The charmed creature
WIS 15 (+2) regards the dryad as a trusted friend to be
heeded and protected. Although the target isn't
CHA 18 (+4) under the dryad's control, it takes the dryad's
Skills: Perception +4, Stealth +5 requests or actions in the most favorable way
it can.
Senses: Darkvision 60 Ft.
Passive Perception: 14
Each time the dryad or its allies do anything
Languages: Elvish, Sylvan, Common. harmful to the target, it can repeat the saving
Challenge rating: 2 (450 XP) throw, ending the effect on itself on a success.
Otherwise, the effect lasts 24 hours or until the
Innate Spellcasting: The dryad's innate dryad dies, is on a different plane of existence
spellcasting ability is Charisma (spell save DC from the target, or ends the effect as a bonus
14). The dryad can innately cast the following action. If a target's saving throw is successful,
spells, requiring no material components: the target is immune to the dryad's Fey Charm
At will: druidcraft, shillelagh. for the next 24 hours.

3/day each: entangle, goodberry.

1/day: barkskin. The dryad can have no more than one
humanoid and up to three beasts charmed at a
Magic Resistance: The dryad has advantage on time.
saving throws against spells and other magical
effects.
Divine Health: The Divine Magic flowing
through her makes her Immune to Disease.

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Lay on Hands: Her blessed touch can heal Under normal circumstances; she is a diplomat
wounds. She has a pool of Healing power that and courtier for the woodlands’ visitors of every
replenishes when she takes a Long Rest. With variety until the corruption struck the land and all
the pool, she can restore a total number of Hit the beings that were able to had begun to flee.
Points equal to her Paladin level x 5​ (15 in
Refusing and being unable to flee, ​Lady Daevra ​is
total).​
the last knight standing in the most dire of
As an action, she can touch a creature and circumstances.
draw power from the pool to restore a number
She defends the First Tree, not only for nature’s
of Hit Points to that creature, up to the
sake, but because it is one of the main portals of
maximum amount remaining in her pool.
which allows travel between the prime material
Alternatively, she can expend 5 Hit Points from plane and the interconnected Feywild plane, and
her pool of Healing to cure the target of one as such is important for very many people,
disease or neutralize one poison affecting it. creatures and for the flow of magic.
She can cure multiple Diseases and neutralize
Action in the face of hopelessness is the bravest
multiple Poisons with a single use of Lay on
and most profound thing one can do.
Hands, expending Hit Points separately for
each one.
This feature has no effect on Undead and
Constructs.
Equipment: ​Club ​(wooden, fashioned into the
shape of a knightly longsword, masterwork in
quality),
Shield ​(wooden, fashioned into the shape of a
knightly heater shield, masterwork in quality),
A bunch of 10x ​Goodberries (​ as per the spell).

Lady Daevra​ is designed as a hybrid blend of the

traditional ​Dryad ​creature and the ​Paladin
adventuring class; though she is lacking in the
Paladin’s traditional holy spellcasting and smiting
ability, instead having several innate nature
themed spells and abilities.
Try not to get too intimidated by the list of possible
actions of this NPC; presuming her buffs of
Barkskin a ​ nd ​Shillelagh a
​ re active, her other
abilities are more social and team-work based, go
along with the prompts and suggestions of the
players. If it seems reasonable? Go for it.
She is ​noble i​ n background and personality,
knightly and good-aligned. She is kind,
strong-willed and pleasantly natured. A certain
paragon of the forest and of woodland goodness.
Her protection of the First Tree began after she
took her oath and swore allegiance to the Seelie
Fae. In exchange for being bound to the tree, she
has been granted an immortal and beautiful form.

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The First Tree itself is a giant, ancient Oak tree
which has an obvious magical aura and presence,
but due to its primal form and planar nature as a
portal - it is but a tree in its purest physical sense.
Should ​Lady Daevra ​be slain in the course of her
duty, the tree then subsequently has the following
attributes:
The First Tree
Armor Class: 13
HP: 62 (7d12+14)
Vulnerabilities: Slashing, Fire
Damage Resistance: non-magical piercing,
non-magical bludgeoning.
This scene is designed to help the players feel
empowered and confident in combat, striking the
undead Kobold mooks and minions down
powerfully into little piles of bones. Lady Daevra is
a capable warrior, but shouldn’t outshadow the
player's heroics.
Be tactical with your use of the Kobolds, however,
ensure that the Lady Daevra and the party are
constantly being harassed by Pack Tactic attacks
with advantage in order to maintain high tension
throughout the encounter. They have 30ft of
movement and are more than willing to dash to
dangerous areas.
As the Kobolds are undead and act to their
instruction, they would not flee combat for
self-preservation, they would continue to attack to
the best of their ability until they would all fall or the
tree is felled.
As with all encounters, it’s important to remember
that the game is not the players verses the DM. Be
challenging, but fair. It is a game and thus the only
goal is to ensure everyone has fun!
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A Formal Introductions
After the combat has concluded, should the​ Lady
Daevra ​and the First Tree survive the encounter,
she beckons to the party and formally introduces
herself, offering ​goodberries ​and healing via her
lay on hands P ​ aladin ability. She relays her titles
and offers a very warm welcome to the
adventurers whom she is very glad to see.
She is thankful and appreciative, but reminds the
adventurers to stay on their toes and alert as she
is sure that there is more combat to be seen. It has
been a few days since she last spoke to the fleeing
Animal Messenger​s, let alone brave adventurers.
She finds their company refreshing and welcome.
She explains that time is of the essence as the
Seelie Council are deliberating the ancient laws
and debating if it is worthwhile to save The First
Tree and the grove, and even ​Lady Daevra
herself. The local druids and nature clerics have all
but fled and have abandoned the area, their posts
and renounced their vows.
Ideally she would prefer not to perish or be slain by
the hands of these foul aggressors. She just needs
a little support, a little time and a lot of hope to see
through this particularly tumultuous time. Naturally,
she re-confirms the offered rewards.
Should the adventurers decline the quest or
otherwise take a dislike to the noble and
good-intentioned ​Lady Daevra​, she would plead
and insist that they would stay being as politely
persuasive or negotiable as reasonably possible.
Should this fail, she would attempt to use her ​Fey
Charm​ Dryad ability on whichever target she
perceives to be the social face or moral compass
of the adventuring party, or alternatively the
loudest protestor. She is subtle in this ability use,
and it brings her great personal shame as it
opposes her oaths. She would later release the
charm when appropriate, sincerely apologise and
seek atonement with the party.
It is then when ​Lady Daevra​ beckons and Gnome Cunning: He has advantage on all
introduces​ Doo’rad Rockholme​, a kindly Intelligence, Wisdom, and Charisma saving
Charlatan Rock Gnome Forge-Domain Cleric throws against magic.
whom lives within the sacred walls. in a large
Artificer’s Lore: Add twice his proficiency
boulder in the gardens. While he emerges from a
bonus to History checks related to magic
crack in the rocks as a tiny creature, they return to
items, alchemical objects, or technological
their small size to warmly greet the party.
devices.
While not much of a fighter, ​Doo’rad​ has travelled
Tinkerer: He is proficient with tinker's tools and
a long way to finally reside within the gardens,
can use them to construct simple tiny
finding the woodland and their Fae company an
clockwork devices that persist for 24 hours
inspiring, stimulating place. Science imitates the
before requiring repair.
natural world, after-all.​ Doo’rad​ pursues an
‘honest’ living by acting as a spell-service provider Channel Divinity: Artisan's Blessing: He can
and merchant for the grove. use his Channel Divinity (1/day) to conduct an
hour-long ritual that crafts a non-magical item
Their main income of providing souvenirs for the
that must include some metal: a simple or
passing adventurers and nature folk had dried up
martial weapon, a suit of armor, ten pieces of
as late, so he too is very excited about the latest
ammunition, a set of tools, or another metal
arrivals. ​Doo’rad​ is gregarious, laid-back
object. or an object that uses a metal
well-travelled and eccentric but will immediately
component. The thing you create can be
flee and hide at any sign of violence.
something that is worth no more than 100 gp.
Divine Spellcasting:
Doo’rad Rockholme Cantrips:​ Guidance, Mending, Spare the Dying.
Rock Gnome Forge Cleric 3 spell-slots of prepared 1st level spells:
Small Humanoid, Chaotic Good. Identify, Detect Magic, Detect Poison and
Disease​ (all ritual-cast applicable).
Armor Class: 16 (Scale-mail & Shield)
Equipment: Light Hammer (Gnomish in
Hit Points: 15 (2d8+1) design), Scale-mail armor (Ornate, well-kept),
Speed: 25ft Shield (in the shape of the symbol of Gond),
spell-component pouch, a forgery kit, smithy’s
STR 8 (-1) tools’ and tinkerer’s tools.
DEX 10 (+0)
CON 12 (+1)
INT 14 (+2)
WIS 16 (+3)
CHA 14 (+2)
Skills: Deception +4, History +7, Medicine +5,
Sleight of Hand +2
Senses: Darkvision 60 Ft.
Passive Perception: 13
Languages: Gnomish, Common.
Challenge rating: 1/2 (100 XP)

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Doo’rad Rockholme​ will offer their services,
striking a deal that he would assist the party,
performing their services for free or at only cost
price providing they continue to defen​d Lady
Daevra​ and the tree and help in returning their
usual clienttell to the region.
While ​Doo’rad ​is fond of the ​Lady Daevra​, she
insteads tolerates him, seeing him as a friend but
quite strange and only very occasionally irritating.
The ‘formal introductions’ scene is the ideal
avenue to have the characters role-play their own
personalities and other backstory elements with
the NPC’s. Imagine the camera lens zooming in on
the characters for their conversation options.
The Lady Daevra is a more serious character in
which the plot revolves and whom has the most at
stake, and otherwise serves as an ally for the
party. She represents the ‘tower defense’ core.
Doo’rad Rockholme otherwise serves as
light-hearted comedic relief and functions as the
locations’ merchant, trader and craftsman while
combat is not being conducted.
After the encounters are over, Doo’rad can often
be spotted in the background of scenes
scavenging for materials after the adventurers are
done with their quarry.
As Doo’rad is divinely magical and a talented
artisan; be creative with your players. Encourage
them to think of fortifications or items they think
would be fun and useful in their defense task!
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Blight that Tree​!
The adventurers and their allies only have enough
time for a short-rest before…
While the tell-tale signs of recent combat still linger; a
peculiar sound disrupts the peace. The sounds of a
nearby rotten tree beyond the walls of the orchard
cracks, creaks and splinters very loudly. There is a
booming swoosh of air and the ruffled sound of many
branches and leaves coming to their final rest. No birds
take flight, for there are none present.
In the next few moments - a peculiar sight can be
spotted just beyond the gilded archway of the grove; a
procession of mysterious humanoid mushroom or
fungus creatures. They are very broad and thick in
stature and swole in a strange, pale muscular physique.
They trudge wordlessly towards their destination - The
First Tree. They would be faceless if it were not for their
purple coloration presenting the visage of a painted
skull. Their large fists appear covered in a thick white
fuzz, presumably spores or mould.
Contributing to the uncanny display, the creatures walk
wordlessly hand in hand with a small bipedal
black-leaved bush, their thorny vine tendrils wrapped
around their larger guardians.
As they approach the area and the heroes, it's clear they
are cursed, aggressive creatures - hissing madly,
clenching their fists and beginning their stomping
charge!
It’s time to roll initiative!
A group of 4x ​Violet Fungus Mycanoid Hybrids Cursed Awakened Thorn Shrub
and 4x ​Cursed Awakened Thorn Shrubs
approach the grove from where the adventurers Small Plant, Unaligned.
themselves entered the area. If they had set up a Armor Class: 9
palisade or fortification barring this entry, the
creatures would assault that obstacle granting Hit Points: 9 (3d6-1)
savvy players the advantage of a surprise round. Speed: 20 ft.
As previously suggested, feel free to add 1-2 more STR 2 (-4)
of each for a powerful group or if there are extra
adventurers at the play-table, or to use 1-2 less DEX 10 (+0)
creatures should it be required. CON 8 (-1)
INT 2 (-4)
Violet Fungus Mycanoid Hybrid WIS 10 (+0)
Medium Plant, Unaligned. CHA 10 (+0)
Armor Class: 11 (Natural Armor) Vulnerabilities: Fire, Slashing.
Hit Points: 19 (3d8+6) Damage Resistance Piercing, Bludgeoning.
Speed: 20ft Senses: Passive Perception: 10.
STR: 16 (+3) Challenge 1/8 (25 XP)
DEX: 10 (+0) False Appearance: While the Cursed Awakened
Thorn Shrub remains motionless, it is
CON: 14 (+2)
indistinguishable from a normal shrub.
INT: 2 (-4)
Tendrils: Melee Weapon Attack: +2 to hit, reach
WIS: 12 (+1) 5 ft., one target. Hit: 1 slashing damage, and
the target is ​Grappled ​(escape DC 9). Until this
CHA: 6 (-2)
grapple ends, the Cursed Awakened Thorn
Condition Immunities: Blinded, Deafened, Shrub can't use its tendrils on another target.
Frightened.
Loot: Awakened Thorn Shrub Pieces.
Senses: Blindsense: 30ft (blind beyond this
measurement).
Passive Perception: 11
Challenge Rating: 1 (200 XP)
False Appearance. While the Violet Fungus
Mycanoid Hybrid remains motionless, it is
indistinguishable from an ordinary fungus.
Multiattack: The fungus makes 1d4 Rotting
Touch attacks.
Rotting Touch: Melee Weapon Attack: +2 to hit,
reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit: (1d8+3) necrotic
damage per Rotting Touch attack.
Loot: Violet Fungus Mycanoid Flesh.

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This encounter is designed to present a strong and
individual challenge or duel for each of the
characters; presenting a physically powerful foe
where always attacking head-on each turn may not
always be the most ideal action.
Be aware of their powerful Rotting Touch attack; if
possible, spread the 1d4 attacks over multiple
targets when in reach. Unless the creature
succeeds on a critical hit, it should be unlikely that
the monster performs a one-hit KO, but it is a
possibility. The fungus creatures would move onto
their other active targets and the tree instead of
making coup-de-grace actions.
The awakened shrubs are designed to be
dastardly minions, to hold the adventurers and
prevent them from moving with their tendrils and
provide flanking bonuses. Imagine the punk who
holds their target while the enforcer goes for their
haymaker - it’s that kind of unfair imagery we’re
trying to provoke.

Slay the defenders!

If the adventurers are successful, they are

rewarded with an evening’s peace, being able to
share their downtime with ​Lady Daevra​ and
Doo’rad​.
Eventually the night will arrive and camp will need
to be established. The Lady will suggest that a
night-watch should be established, unless the
party has clever ideas to solve this issue. She also
volunteers for a shift.
By now the issue of the troublesome adventurers
has become apparent as the Tree and the Lady
still remain. To this effect, they send deadly
assassins to eliminate this particularly persistent
problem! A dagger in the night can be a potentially
efficient, effective solution.
A party of three ​Ghouls ​stalk the grove and
attempt to stealth their way to the party and slay
them where they sleep! They are cold, calculating
and strike without hesitation or prejudice. They
have no qualms in finishing unfortunate
adventures off for good. They carry out their
instruction to the best of their ability without
fleeing. They strike at the dead of night.

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Add another ghoul if the party is powerful and The ghoul night-time encounter is supposed to
capable. Alternatively, feel free to use only one draw upon horror themes. It should be ferocious
Ghoul ​if the party requires it. and scary high-risk combat. Consider making this
a “theatre of the mind” battle to prevent the players
from knowing exactly where the enemies are at all
times.
This is to introduce the player’s to experience the
classic D&D squirming discomfort of having to
Ghoul make save-or-suffer rolls. Try to encourage an
Medium Undead, Chaotic Evil. emphasis on effective teamwork.

Armor Class: 13 (Armor Scraps) The description of the event and the positioning of
the Ghouls will depend on the success of their
Hit Points: 20 (5d8+2) stealth checks into the area, how far they proceed
Speed: 30 ft. without being spotted, and how successful the
player’s characters are in their perception checks.
STR 13 (+1)
DEX 15 (+2)
CON 10 (+0) Burn down that tree!
INT 7 (-2)
WIS 10 (+0) The characters survive the night, although their
night’s rest and recuperation is interrupted, they
CHA 6 (-2) are magically invigorated by the strong positive
Damage Immunities: Poison energy of the grove and of the First Tree. It’s
almost as if the Tree itself is grateful of it’s new
Condition Immunities: Charmed, Exhaustion, guardians. ​The Lady Daevra ​produces additional
Poisoned Goodberries f​ or the party, and ​Doo’rad​ continues
Senses: Darkvision 60 Ft. any overnight work he has agreed to do…
Passive Perception: 8
Languages Common Dawn breaks and the sun rises triumphantly like a
Challenge Rating: 1 (200 XP) beacon of hope in stark contrast to the growing black
thunder-less clouds that loom overhead. It isn't long
Claws. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 before the sun fades from view and becomes filtered,
ft., one target. Hit: (2d4 + 2) slashing damage. If weakened behind the unnatural weather.
the target is a creature other than an elf or
It is from this last glimpse of fiery sunlight that a faint
undead, it must succeed on a DC 10
red shimmer, just for the slightest moment, can be
Constitution saving throw or be paralyzed for 1 made out before it is gone above the clouds and out
minute. The target can repeat the saving throw of view.
at the end of each of its turns, ending the effect
on itself on a success The morning proceeds peacefully; as pleasant as a
band of adventurers and dryad can muster granting
Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +2 to hit, reach 5 the circumstance and ominous background.
ft., one creature. Hit: (2d6 + 2) piercing damage
(Ghouls will bite when otherwise restrained.) It is not too long for the red-flash to reappear, now
descending directly above the camp in an aggressive
nose-dive, large red reptilian wings can be seen
unfurling and a wicked fiery grin of a small dragon
wyrmling.

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Attached by ropes a small humanoid flails wildly
about in some semblance of a makeshift saddle
clearly not designed for the dive.
Fire Breath (Recharge 5-6). The dragon exhales
fire in a 15-foot cone. Each creature in that area
must make a DC 13 Dexterity saving throw,
taking 24 (7d6) fire damage on a failed save, or
half as much damage (12) on a successful one.

Yes, the adventurers and the grove are being

assailed by a ​Red Dragon Wyrmling, ​and their
rider a ​Red Dragon Goblin Shaman​! Their main
objective is to start a destructive wildfire and burn
down the tree into ash and cinders.
The Dragon itself is young and full of bravado and Goblin Dragon Shaman
hubris, they are looking to make a title and name
for themselves. The Goblin is their mentor and ally, Small Humanoid (goblinoid), Neutral Evil
offering a protesting counter-opinion to the actions Armor Class: 13 (Leather Armor)
of their winged scaly companion.
Hit Points: 18 (4d6)
Speed: 30 ft.
Red Dragon Wyrmling (Very Young)
STR 8 (-1)
Medium Dragon, Chaotic Evil.
DEX 14 (+2)
Armor Class: 17 (Natural Armor)
CON 10 (+0)
Hit Points: 75 (10d8+30)
INT 8 (-1)
Speed: 30 ft., climb 30 ft., fly 60 ft.
WIS 12 (+1)
STR 19 (+4)
CHA 16 (+3)
DEX 10 (+0)
Skills: Stealth +6
CON 17 (+3)
Senses: Darkvision 60 Ft.,
INT 12 (+1)
Passive Perception: 10.
WIS 11 (+0)
Languages: Common, Goblin.
CHA 15 (+2)
Challenge 1/2 (100 XP)
Saving Throws: Dex +2, Con +5, Wis +2, Cha +4
Nimble Escape: The goblin can take the
Skills: Perception +4, Stealth +2 Disengage or Hide action as a bonus action on
Damage Immunities: Fire each of its turns.

Senses: Blindsight 10 Ft., Darkvision 60 Ft., Spellcasting:

Passive Perception: 14. Cantrips known: Fire Bolt, Produce Flame.
Languages: Draconic, Common. Loot: Goblin Shaman Leather Armor, Exotic
Challenge Rating: 4 (1,100 XP) Saddle and Harness (for use with
small-creature and flying mount), a large &
Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 heavy coin pouch filled with gold and platinum
ft., one target. Hit: (1d10 + 4) piercing damage (the equivalent to roughly 200GP per
plus (1d6) fire damage. adventurer).

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Allow the players a turn to position and ready
themselves as the dragon roars and swoops in
from above, and then get ready to roll a straight
initiative check with no surprise round.
The young dragon wyrmling will want to engage
and fight and test themselves against the
adventurers, focusing on the strongest amongst
them, or whoever hit them the hardest in the last
turn.
The goblin, however, will try to reason and wrangle
with the dragon, pleading that they focus on their
mission and instead focus on attacking ​Lady
Daevra ​and the First Tree.
Should the dragon fall below half of their total hit
points, they become fearful and shaken and
consider fleeing, and will almost certainly
disengage when at a quarter of their total hit points
or less.
The goblin mentor will stay with the dragon in life
and death and will refuse to dismount unless
otherwise forced. The dragon is especially
protective of the goblin, unless otherwise
distracted. Should the goblin be slain, the dragon
will become fearful and shaken and will be much
more likely to flee.
Be wary in this combat encounter as the dragon’s
breath attack can be deadly in any circumstance: if
the combat is going poorly for the adventurers,
consider only recharging the breath attack on the 6
result.
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Try to avoid keeping the dragon in flight and away
from any melee-focused adventurers, allow them
to fight and feel brave and heroic! Explain or
roleplay that the dragon prefers to duel and bite or
complain that flying and breath attacks at the same
time are difficult and uncomfortable.
The dragon is young and unwise and drawn to
taunts, they’re looking to prove themselves with a
youthful and naive reckless exuberance, so allow
the players to plan and use this to their advantage.
As mentioned; the goblin is the ‘key’ for solving the
encounter, being the ‘brains’ of the operation.
Allow the goblin to use their Nimble Escape action
to hide from the adventurers - they would lean or
climb over to the other side of their saddle from the
direction of attacks, bestowing the offensive action
against them at disadvantage.
Although there are no dungeons provided in this
adventure, there certainly is potential to fight a
dragon! An iconic, memorable monster and
hopefully an equally memorable battle for your
table. Use this for an opportunity for role-playing
between the ‘mighty dragon’ and their nemesis.
It is highly recommended that your adventurers
proceed into this battle at level 3 or 4. Or ensure to
provide many hints via role-play, fudged DM rolls
and concessions to new players or level 2
characters.
A Change in Tact.
With the fires put out, the adventurers have the
opportunity for a short rest as the afternoon of the
Ogre Sage
second day rolls in…
Large Giant, Chaotic Evil.
In direct opposition to the previous encounter, loud,
thunderous stomps shake the floor of the forest Armor Class: 11 (Hide Armor).
interior, each step a minor localised quake that Hit Points: 66 (7d10+21)
shatters the dry wilted floor.
Speed: 40 ft.
Two very large but empty hands peek around the
main gate, "Parley," a loud rumbling deep voice STR 19 (+4)
states. "I’m not here to hurt you, I am only here to
DEX 8 (-1)
talk." the voice continues as they move around to
reveal themselves. CON 16 (+3)
It quickly becomes apparent that before you is a huge INT 16 (+3)
Ogre, unarmed besides some very worn Leather
Armor, a blue-dyed felt wide-brimmed hat and lots of WIS 10 (-0)
straps for their travel pack concealed by a large CHA 7 (-2)
travelling cloak.
Senses: Darkvision 60 Ft.,
Passive Perception: 10.
A single​ Ogre Sage​ with ​Enlarge / Reduce​ cast Languages Common, Giant.
upon themselves approaches the grove, seeking
an audience with the party. They are cunning, alert Challenge Rating: 3 (700 XP)
and will defend themselves at any provocation, Greatclub. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit,
then focusing on self-preservation and making an reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: (2d8 + 4)
escape. bludgeoning damage.
They offer a challenge, a final one-on-one to settle Spellcasting:
their differences and the fate of the grove. They
explain that their employer is willing to offer a lot of Cantrips:​ Booming Blade, Gust, Move Earth,
gold for a satisfactory end to the conflict, but will Thunderclap.
refuse any attempt to provide any further 4 slots of 1st-level spells: ​Catapult, Earth
information. Tremor, Jump, Thunderwave.
They would agree to a contest of some variety - 2 slots of 2nd-level spells: ​Enlarge / Reduce,
the ​Ogre ​would prefer a duel of some kind, be it of Shatter.
the martial or spellcasting, though the ogre would
humor a contest of skill. The deal would be; if the Loot: Hide-armor (suitable for a Large
Ogre won, the adventurers would leave, and if the humanoid), a studded and reinforced Ogre
adventurers win, the ​Ogre ​would stay and lend Greatclub, a sack of 6x copper-tipped spears, a
their aid to the defense of the grove. large spellbook with the above spells (and any
other Ogre themed cantrips or 1st-2nd level
This is a ruse, lies and deceit in order to get spells that the DM may find appropriate to offer
unaccosted access to the grove, and in range... in addition.)

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When the time comes for combat or the contest to
occur, the ​Ogre ​produces a copper-tipped spear
and uses ​Catapult t​ o launch it directly into the First
Tree, using their subsequent turns to use spells to
push away the adventurers if they are assailed
while they make their escape.
It is up to the discretion of the DM if this huge
“copper nail” have any effect on the tree. It could
be struck with a similar blight curse of the
surrounding forest, or be poisoned for dramatic
effect… Or just a foolish attempt at an old
woodland myth.
Don’t hesitate for the Ogre to use Jump and to hop
the walls of the grove, unless the adventurers have
a good method to do the same, it can indicate the
end of the encounter at that point.
In this scene we’re trying to evoke the “aha! I knew
it!” reaction of someone suspicious and then
turning traitor, or of a creature appealing and
taking advantage of the adventurer's good nature.
Don’t be afraid to give the Ogre an interesting
personality or voice, they’re deeply smart -- just
uncharismatic!
Like the boss-style encounter, this scene is
intended to be more like a social puzzle to be
solved, rather than a more traditional
kill-it-until-it’s-dead combat.

The Finale!

It is clear that all of these tactics are not working,

and time is of the essence. The aggressing forces
are at a loss and must resort to the brute-force
total destruction of the area, something regrettable
and drastic but a last-resort option nonetheless.

This scene is intended to be a cutscene and a final

encounter is usually not required, though if the
adventurers are keen and creative, they can opt
into a combat if they are inclined to do so.

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Just as soon as one situation ends, another begins.
One could be forgiven for feeling that the situation is
dire and hope is lost...
Pained, tormented animalistic screeching can be
heard as the perfect grassy turf is disturbed by small
creatures burrow shallowly underfoot.
The unknown creatures churn the land slowly, like
some torpedoes aimed directly for their final
destination - the First-Tree.
At a start, there's more than can be counted at a
glance, and they're quickly appearing from every
angle!
The sound is more horrifying than the image, twisted
and mangled screeching invokes a natural and primal
fear response, for whatever the creatures these are
they are fiendish, hellish beasts.
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The First-Tree is being attacked at the roots and
being dug out from underneath to be felled.​ 24
Fiendish Badgers​ burrow just underneath the
surface, presenting a difficult to manage disaster
for the adventurers!
Fiendish Badger
Tiny Fiend, Chaotic Evil.
Armor Class: 10
Hit Points: 4 (1d6+1)
Speed: 20 ft., Burrow 5 ft.
STR 6 (-2)
DEX 10 (+0)
CON 12 (+1)
INT 2 (-4)
WIS 8 (-1)
CHA 3 (-4)
Senses: Darkvision 30 Ft.,
Passive Perception: 9
Challenge Rating: 1/8 (25 XP)
Keen Smell. The badger has advantage on
Wisdom (Perception) checks that rely on smell.
Rage: On the Fiendish Badger’s turn, it can
enter a rage as a Bonus Action. While raging, it
gains the following benefits: It has advantage
on Strength Checks and Strength Saving
Throws. When it makes a melee weapon attack,
it gains a +2 bonus to the damage roll. It has
resistance to bludgeoning, piercing, and
slashing damage.
Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +2 to hit, reach 5
ft., one target. Hit: (1d4-2) piercing damage.
Claw: Melee Weapon Attack: +2 to hit, reach
5ft., one target. Hit: (1d4-2) slashing damage.
Should the adventurers also have a method of
burrowing, they can engage the creatures directly,
providing they are willing to shrink down to the size
of tiny creatures, Doo’rad may offer them this
solution unless the characters have any other
ideas. Allow the adventurers the attempt to attack
through the loosened ground as a last-ditch effort
at disadvantage.
If they do decide to engage directly, try and evoke
an other-worldly image of facing down a giant and
terrifying fiendish badger whilst shrunk down to
minute proportions in the burrowed tunnels.
Try to emulate a giant creature battle such as in
film and TV!
The combat does not proceed for too many turns
before:
A distant battle-trumpet and warhorn melody
can be heard, for those of a militaristic
background, it is reminiscent of a kind of
Cavalry Charge tune, albeit somehow more
simultaneously more beautiful and horrifying
than one could conjure using mundane means.
With a brilliant flash of green light and beautiful
shimmering particles, the adventurers are
returned to grove in their normal state and the
fiendish badger threat below burrow to the
surface and flee in every direction in a mad
panic.
A giant albino elk comes to a graceful stop in
the grove after stepping through the portal of the
First Tree. A marvelous creature with a look of
sentience and keen intelligence, it's covered in
mythical mithril barding of an elven design.
The miraculous fae beast bows lowly to allow
it's rider to dismount with graceful ease. A faerie
sprite darts into the direct vision and view of
each of the characters, each unfurling an official
scroll with additional fanfare;
"Presenting; ​Oberon​, the Green King, beloved
by all of the Seelie Court, Great-Hunter of the
Beastlands,​ Archfey, keeper of the ​Oathbow​, ‘he
who dances with summer’ and member of the
Feywilde Council."
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Oberon’s ​avatar takes on a god-like visage,
creating a profound sense of awe in the power
of their aura and presence. Not quite omnipotent
in this realm, but almost.
Their image takes the shape of a very large,
very muscular and eerily beautiful green-tinted
Elf. They’re bare-chested and rippling with
muscle. They have no face, their entire head
takes the shape of plain, smooth, un-featured
oak, only the elven tell-tale ears appear to be
present.
To further complement their aesthetic; various
stems and branches grow naturally and without
harm across their shoulders and back - echoing
the antlers of their travelling companion.
They're donned in a long skirt of dark and
infinite swirling leaves and a very many trinkets
and accessories of a natural origin. They bring
nothing with them except an impossibly large
and imposing long-bow, which is equally as
ornate as their wielder.
"Thank you, adventurers, you may be at ease."
a kindly voice says within the adventurers minds
with a carefree ease. "We have company." he
mentions without any powerful emotion, pointing
at the center courtyard.
Without introduction a terrifying image shocks
any observer, a Skeletal Dragon, a ​Dracolich​,
stands to attention. On every long and thin
section of bone a long and green silk banner
drapes and floats in the breeze and massive
undead eyes glow with a pure blue electrical
arcane energy. Their arrival was uncannily
silent, much to everyone’s alarm.
"​Oberon​, we meet at last." says the Dracolich.
"​Dretchroyaster​, indeed. Let us begin."
Oberon ​replies.
This is the final cutscene for the adventure, the
defense of the tree is a success and the
adventurers are heroes!
While this is the intended storyline for the
adventure and the provided example feel free to
adapt the NPC’s and villains to your particular
campaigns needs.
​ racolich,​
The “big-bad-evil” in this instance is a D
but they present themselves as an illusion during
this final scene; maintaining the purely
non-combative intention. It is unlikely the
adventurers would survive any crossfire between a
Dracolich and Archfey within the recommended
character level for this adventure!
Remember: the difference between barbarism and
villainy is the flair for the dramatic! ​Dretchroyaster
revels in this. Ensure there is peril and drama to
the action, ensure there is personality, character
and rationale supporting every decision. Lean into
the theatrical tragedy element.

Dretchroyaster ​is an ancient green dragon, and

recently turned ​Dracolich ​with delusions of
grandeur. As a green dragon, their preferred
hunting grounds and homes are forests. They
enjoy tricking and playing with their targets and
victims.
Dretchroyaster in the creation of their phylacteries
has cursed and corrupted the landscape, and the
enemies he sends towards the grove are an
extension of their power and influence. To absorb
the ancient and mysterious power of the First Tree
would be a mighty boon and a delightful advantage
to have over their competitors. Their ultimate aim
is to amass wealth and power, to traverse space
and the planes freely. Ultimately ascending as an
Undying Patron and New God.
Thankfully, the adventurers had proven with their
friendship to​ Lady Daevra​, a prominent Fey
diplomat and their willingness to risk their health
and lives has shown the Seelie Fae that the
material plane and their humanoid inhabitants
have not abandoned and forgotten the old ways.
They seek to keep their traditions alive and to
continue to maintain one of the main portals
between their realms.

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The Epilogue
If the adventurers request magical equipment - up
to two magic items of a common or a single
The adventurers may participate in a conversation uncommon rarity item would be appropriate for this
with Oberon and Dretchroyaster as they explain level of play.
both of their positions. It is likely a larger conflict is
As the DM, use your discretion for which direction
about to begin. Oberon may imply that these
you would like the story to progress and how
heroes will be key in the coming skirmishes and
powerful you would enjoy your player’s characters
may offer to appoint the player characters as
to be.
allies, ambassadors or knights.
Sometimes aiding in a character’s issues within
Dretchroyaster vows to continue their terrible
their backstory or their current problems can be
plans, and dispels their communication illusion. In
more fun and provide more opportunities for
any case, the adventurers are no longer in
role-play and perhaps open up other plot-points.
immediate danger and can claim their quest
rewards! Try to encourage a “yes, but!” approach to handing
out loot or rewards, to provide a hook going
The challenge rating of each of the creatures and
forwards.
encounters are provided in each stat-block, but if
you are running a milestone system for levelling If the character is disappointed, try and think of a
characters it is suggested that you allow your placeholder appropriate equivalent reward for
players to indeed level up by the conclusion of the them to hold onto in the mean-time.
adventure.
The adventures gain a contract or token that
allows them to freely gain access to the Feywilde
by the use of portals, such as The First Tree, or
any other they come across in their careers.
The adventurers may be encouraged to adventure
within the Feywild in order to acquire further
experience, power and magical items in which to
return and defeat the forces of the fiendish
Dretchroyaster.

Otherwise, it is then the turn of the characters to

barter with ​Oberon​, though he may suggest that
they should be careful in what they wish for - the
nature of Fae magic is prone to chaos and whimsy
and may twist the results and their intentions.
For example, if someone asks if they may have
Oberon’s​ ​Oathbow​, confirm that it is possible
indeed, and he would gladly part with it but it rather
belongs to the Great Hunter of the ​Beastlands​, and
as such when that title is bestowed it shall surely
be theirs.

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Complications

Should the players and characters arrive and are

Sometimes unlucky critical hits happen,
soon discovered to be infamous “murder-hobos”
sometimes allies get caught unintentionally in that
and attempt to attack​ Lady Daevra​ or ​Doo’rad​,
area-of-effect spell, sometimes we critically fail on
conduct an encounter using their stat-blocks but
our death saving throws, it happens.
otherwise the adventure is would run very
If one of the adventurers does fall, allow the simmilarly if they somehow continue to defend the
players the opportunity to resolve the issue tree, just without their forms of aid or company.
themselves during the midst of combat.
Doo’rad the merchant NPC can aid after the
If they decide to leave the grove - run further
danger has passed, he is able to cast ​Spare the
encounters during their accursed forest journey,
Dying, Healing Word​ or​ Cure Wounds, Gentle
potentially having them become lost. If you decide
Repose,​ and perform a funeral ​Ceremony ​rite
to run an ongoing campaign, consider having the
(provided he has those spells prepared for the
Lady Daevra ​and ​Doo’rad ​become equally
day)​. ​Lady Daevra​ also has a ​Lay on Hands ​pool
infamous ​Revenant c​ reatures, hunting down their
of 15 hit points in which to stabilize and heal the
murderers in a quest for revenge, usually arriving
party members per day.
at the worst possible moment!
This provides the best opportunity for the character
Perhaps run the campaign with a new Fey bounty
to be revived later by a more powerful person or
on their head, a constant and dangerous issue that
entity.
would need an eventual resolution.
This could be a potential reward at the end of the
adventure or something a character may be able
to perform themselves after levelling up; so don’t
let your player tear up their character sheet just
yet!
Should the Lady Daevra be slain in the defense of
the First Tree, all subsequent damage is applied
directly to the tree itself. Should the tree fall, the
quest can be considered a failure and may have to
deal with the immediate complication - the grove is
immediately swallowed by the corruption.
All the colour fades and large thorns strangle the
grove, and a deep, menacing laughter can be
heard - allow the adventurers to fight their way out
of the situation and back to civilisation.
That in itself has the potential to be another
session or adventure entirely!

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In Conclusion
While we are presenting a story and various
challenges to the players, the primary aim of the
game is to spend some quality social time with
new and old friends.
Sometimes the best aspect of the game isn’t the
XP gain or the loot, but eating snacks, enjoying
nice drinks, indulging in clicky-clacky math rocks
and sharing good company for an afternoon or
evening.
Make sure the focus remains on promoting fun and
creativity in a safe space. Don’t be afraid to
embrace a little silliness. It’s not every day we
have the opportunity to capture a glimmer of our
collective child-like imagination.
If you have spur-of-the-moment good ideas, be
brave and follow them, even if it leads you away
from the advice of the adventure guide or the
handbook rules.
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Always practice good self-care when it comes to
role-playing games, stay hydrated and don’t force
long sessions if you may help it. It’s better to have
a magical but short experience and yearn for more
than it is to have something distracted and
half-hearted. If you’re enthusiastic, share that in a
constructive and unabashed way.
Try to end the sessions with a dramatic high-note
or a cliff-hanger, a nice hook in which to
springboard the next session or campaign.
Alternatively, give the players something to think
about and consider for their next session - such as
ways they may use their downtime, or a puzzle!
If you’ve enjoyed the adventure guide and some of
the ideas detailed here, please consider leaving a
comment, review or sharing it with friends! It would
greatly be appreciated.
The only thing left to add is my personal wish that
you sincerely have a good time with the adventure
and that it leads on to many great experiences to
come. Be well and all the best.
-- Tristan Payne, AKA. CoffeandCantrips.
 Additional Encounter Tables
D6 Waylaid in the Forest suggestions:
1) 1x ​Raven ​per adventurer perches nearby and
mimics the adventurers; teasing them. They fly away
when attacked, if able.
2) 1x​ Giant Elk​ and 3x ​Deer ​struggle as they’re
caught up in thorny vines. They’re helpless and are
very vocal and highly distressed.
3) 1x ​Shadow ​per adventurer attacks the party. It
appears as if the characters own shadows betray
them!
4) 4x ​Rust Monster ​wander nearby in the search of
iron and steel, they catch a scent of the adventurers.
5) 2x ​Death Dog​ come across the adventurers in
their forest patrol, barking loudly, raising an alarm
and attacking viciously. It’s obvious that they are
highly diseased.
6) 1x Skeletal Warhorse and their mounted 1x
Animated Armor prevents the party from moving
onwards. If slain, It takes 24 hours for them to
reassemble and resume the chase.
Alternatively, establish a scene within an
abandoned druid village or Merfolk river
settlement. Any survivors or folks left behind
would be hopeless, dazed and confused,
talking in riddles and refusing any aid. They
are wallowing, in mourning and pitiful. Use
this if you would prefer a social style
encounter.
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D6 Chop Down that Tree! alternatives:
1) 4x​ Flying Sword​ (​Flying Axes​) assault the tree,
chopping spookily without the need of a user!
2) 6x ​Axe Beak​ bird-beasts stampede into the
grove, attacking anything within range with an
irritated frenzy.
3) A group of 4x ​Satyr ​arrive seeking revelry, things
quickly turn aggressive and violent if denied. They
are Unseelie agents!
4) 1x​ Brown Bear​ is hungry and very protective of
their 2x ​Black Bear​ (​Brown Cubs)​ . They wander into
the grove seeking shelter, perceiving the
adventurers as rivals.
5) 3x ​Swarm of Ravens​ (​Woodpeckers​) fly like bolts
towards Lady Daevra and the Tree, hammering them
with their beaks. Adventurers should be wary how
they aim their attacks!
6) A Skeletal Minotaur approaches the camp, it is
silent, determined and wields Hew, the magical
+1 tree-felling great-axe!
Alternatively, set up a scene with a group of
monster loggers, such as Orcs or Hobgoblins.
Allow them to approach the grove and they
treat it as a new work site. They have a
contract with them and perceive what they are
doing is legal and simple honest work. They’re
open to discussing how to proceed with the
adventurers.
 D6 Blight that Tree! alternatives:
1) 10x ​Diseased Giant Rat​ horde into the grove and
the adventurers, they burst with a horrible nastiness
when slain.
2) 5x ​Dust Mephit​ arrive to sand and erode the tree
at an incredible pace, controlling the adventurers
with blindness and sleep!
3) A group of 8x ​Cultist ​arrive delivering an
apocalyptic sermon. They have learned the cantrip
Acid Splash​, and bombard the sacred tree. They
revel in their certain demise.
4) 2x ​Giant Spider​ and 2x ​Swarm of Spiders
descend silently from the accursed trees that
overhang the grove and attempt to surprise the
adventurers. Arachnophobes beware!
5) A lone adventurer approaches the grove, they
appear to be an attractive female mage of some
kind. They act suspiciously and uncannily for they
are a vengeful ​Sea Hag​!
6) 1x Gelatinous Cube is being lured into the
​ bility.
grove by an Imp using their ​Invisibility a
The Imp hopes the cube surprises the party. The
Imp would attempt to ​shove a ​ dventurers into the
cube at the worst possible moments.
Alternatively, consider setting up a kind of
negotiation scene between an envoy or
diplomat of the agressing forces. Be noble
and polite, and try to tempt the characters
away from the grove and the Lady. Be
insistent and firm and that the First Tree’s fate
is sealed.
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D6 Slay the Defenders! alternatives:
1) A team of 4x ​Spy ​Assassin ​scale the walls and try
to catch the adventurers unawares as they attempt
their nights’ rest.
2) One of the adventurers suffers an eldritch
nightmare and a ​Gibbering Mouther​ emerges from
within one of them!
3) 2x ​Gnoll ​Lancers r​ ide 2x ​Giant Hyenas i​ nto the
camp and prepare to joust the adventurers. They’re
joined by 2x ​Hyenas w ​ ho aid their hunt like
blood-hounds. They all laugh menacingly.
4) An angry mob of 16x ​Commoner ​all wear a
peculiar​ Crown of Madness,​ they have rusty farmer
tools and burning torches!
5) 2x ​Giant Vulture a​nd 1x​ Swarm of Ravens ​glide
overhead in the sky, waiting the next moment an
adventurer falls. They strike when they perceive
fresh dead meat. The caws are ominus.
6) A Werewolf and their Worg companion howl
but once in the distance. They are crazed,
frenzied and ambush the camp!
Alternatively, use this as an opportunity to
allow the players, the characters and the
friendly NPC’s to have a little downtime, to
have a little banter about the days’ encounters
and to plan for tomorrow.
The peace can act as a pleasant contrast to
the obvious danger of the adventure. This can
be an ideal time for a break in the game
session.
 D6 Burn that Tree! alternatives:
1) A party of 10x ​Goblin ​storm the camp, they each
have a flask of ​alchemist fire​ in each hand. They
relish in the chaos and mischief!
2) 4x ​Magma Memphit ​attack the tree, each having
a small chance to call other ​memphit t​ o battle, each
also exploding in a spectacular fiery death! Wildfire
is imminent...
3) A rival band of 4x ​Deep Gnomes ​arrive and call
out ​Doo’rad Rockhome.​ They’re Unseelie allied
inventors, and wield Wands of Burning Hands!
4) A den of 10x ​Boar ​(​Fire Pigs​) are doused in oil
and set aflame, they stampede the grove with
terrible desperate squeals.
5) 1x ​Captain ​and 4x ​Noble ​have set up a
Trebuchet ​catapult nearby, their first shot lands a
large boulder in the grove. They have their
measurement, and begin loading fire-pots.
6) A Half-Red Dragon Champion (​a Red
Dragonkin Fighter)​ arrives, declaring the
adventurers surrender. They’re solemn and
mounted upon a loyal Draft Horse.
Alternatively, consider having a Druid, Cleric or
Shaman of some variety return to the grove, but
condemn the actions of the adventurers and the
Lady.
The defense of the Tree goes against the true
Druidic philosophy about the brutality of nature.
The visitor would plead to listeners about what
they are doing is inherently wrong.
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D6 A change in Tact alternatives:
1) An ancient cursed king arrives, they’re a
Mummy ​and require an answer from a riddle
to be finally free.
2) A ‘biker’ gang of 6x ​Goblin Worg​-Riders
challenge the party to a race through the
cursed forest. Winner takes control of the
grove.
3) A ​Doppelganger ​and their ​Changeling
partner arrive, they say they’ll impersonate
and ruin the lives of the party unless they
leave.
4) A ​Succubus / Incubus​ arrives, and makes
deliberate lewd advances towards the party.
Their intentions are not pure.
5) A party of 8x ​Drow ​arrive and unfurl a folding
gaming table. They challenge the party to
gamble for the prize of the First Tree.
6) A rival band of adventurers arrive, they
are suspiciously similar to the party and
also hold invitations. They insist on taking
over the operation.
Alternatively, this scene is the perfect opportunity
to unveil any betrayals that you may have been
considering. It may come from the NPC’s, the
larger forces working behind the scenes or to play
on any of the existing tensions between the
characters themselves.
Perhaps Lady Daevra tests the goodness of the
adventurer by stating that in-fact, there is no
reward offered, or challenges a character for poor
behaviour, badly dressing and amoral choices.
 D6 The Finale! alternatives: Space for notes:

1) A parliament of 8x ​Giant Owl​ perch and grab the

limbs of the first tree and flap madly, they’re trying to
carry it off!

2) A giant hot-air balloon silently drifts overhead, it’s

being manned by ​Rock-Gnomes ​and they’re
dropping​ Gunpowder Kegs!

3) A ​Basilisk ​guards the entrance while 3x

Cockatrice ​dart towards the adventurers! Things are
about to get rocky.

4) A band of 10x Unseelie ​Sprite ​drop their

Invisibility ​and hold one of the adventurers hostage!

5) 6x ​Swarm of Wasps​ burst into the scene. It’s the

angry wasp apocalypse.

6) A siege Elephant and crew of 4x Lizardfolk

wage war for their clan in the grove, seeking to
claim the territory.

Depending on the length of your session and

your intentions, it is possible to introduce the
above scenes and foes, but interrupt the
action with the arrival of the faction leaders or
your intended adventure resolution.
This scene is designed to deliberately
establish risk and tension before the relief of
reinforcement and support, so feel free to
establish the role-playing or interruption early!

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Example of the Grove of the First
Tree, Battle-map

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Credits & Acknowledgements

Goblin Riding A Red Dragon

Dryad Knight - Cover
By: Shiprock
Dryade Slyvari
By: TheFirstColour, Khatchig Tchaghasbanian.
Ogre Shaman
By: Anon, Massive Darkness
Dark Forest Landscape
By: Mobiusbelmont
Oberon Feyarch
By: Kevin Glint
Leaf Waxed-Seal Letter
By: Venusenvypaper
AD&D 2nd Edition Dracolich
By: Jim Holloway, Harry Quinn, Dave Sutherland,
Kobold Skeleton
and Larry Elmore.
Undead
By: Aimé Jalon
Sea Revenant
By: Mscorley
Lady Daevra
Melandru Concept Art
Horror Tropes D&D Session
By: Kekai Kotaki
By: Moniek Schilder

Doo’rad Rockholme
Sacred Grove Battlemap
Gnomish Experimentor
By: Caeora
By: Jesper Ejsing

Special thanks to: MissNuzzleMuzzle, TSR,

Violet Fungus Mycanoid Hybrid Wizards of the Coast, the DM’s Guild, all the GM’s
who have granted me to be their opportunity to be
Mushroom Concept Art
their player for however long, fantastic artists
By: Makoto Sako whose skill inspire daily and my wonderful
Roll20.net playtesters: Brandonwithanr1108,
KatarinaS, TiredTanuki, TromboningDragon and
Ghoul LuckyHero.
By: Chris Bourassa & Trudi Castle
And cheers to you, reader - for whom without none
of this would be possible.
Camp Fire, 1880
By: Winslow Homer

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