1 | Start

Welcome to the Coastal Realms! You find yourself standing at the edge of a small village as the morning sun rises. Smoke curls from chimneys of modest homes where humans, halflings, and a few elves go about their daily routines. The village tavern bustles with activity, while a simple shop displays basic goods. A mysterious forest looms nearby.

Where would you like to go first?

2 | the forest

You step into the ancient forest, where towering trees create a canopy that filters sunlight into dancing patterns on the mossy ground. The air feels thick with magic and mystery. Strange whispers seem to echo from deeper within, and you catch glimpses of ethereal lights flickering between the trees.

A worn path leads deeper into the forest toward what appear to be old stone ruins. You also notice the sound of flowing water coming from another direction - likely the river that runs through these woods.

What do you do?

3 | look for inhabitants

You search carefully through the undergrowth and listen intently. Soon you notice signs of the forest's inhabitants:

Delicate mushroom rings appear in small clearings - telltale signs of fey presence. You spot tiny footprints in the soft earth that seem to shimmer and fade as you watch. Wind chimes made of crystalline leaves tinkle softly from hidden branches above.

In the distance, you glimpse a figure in earth-toned robes tending to a grove of silver-barked trees - likely one of the druids who call this place home. They haven't noticed you yet.

Do you approach the druid, investigate the fey rings, or continue exploring?

4 | find the druid

You carefully make your way toward the druid, stepping lightly on the forest floor. As you approach, the figure - an elderly elf with bark-like skin and hair woven with vines - looks up from tending the silver trees. Their eyes, deep green like forest pools, meet yours with calm awareness.

“I felt your presence the moment you entered our sacred grove,” the druid says in a voice like rustling leaves. “Few outsiders venture this deep into the Whispering Wood. What brings you to seek us out, traveler?”

The silver trees around you seem to lean in, as if listening to your conversation.

How do you respond?