You are searching for the Emerald Grove, but the directions you received must be wrong. The path is supposed to be straightforward with minimal obstacles. Instead, you find yourself in a dense forest that blocks out any daylight. The ground is strewn with various traps, ready to ensnare an unsuspecting traveler.

Finally, you reach a small clearing, only to face a dead end. Large, twisting branches covered in thorns scale the rocky wall in front of you and rest along the top. Your gaze follows the path of the thorns, noting how they seem to converge on a single point ahead. Squinting, you make out a wooden structure inlaid with pieces of metal.

A gate.

You attempt to step forward for a closer inspection but are stopped by twisting vines that snake around your legs. The flora tightens its grip with each struggle. Panic sets in as you desperately slash, trying to free yourself.

"What is your purpose here?" a deep voice rumbles behind you.

Twisting your ensnared body, you manage to glimpse an elven man. Agony-fueled rage burns bright in his tired eyes, and aggression radiates from his towering form.

You begin to explain why you are seeking the Emerald Grove, but he cuts you off.

"I trusted outsiders once with my grove, with our cherished connection to Silvanus," he spits, stalking forward and slowly encircling you. "I will make no such mistake again."