Hrudek Oakheart
Archdruid
Hrudek Oakheart, the formidable Archdruid of the Western Gnarley Forest, stands as one of the most respected and enigmatic figures of the Old Faith. A guardian of the balance, a sage of deep wisdom, and a warrior when necessary, Hrudek has spent decades ensuring that the encroachment of civilization does not disrupt the sacred harmony of the forest. He oversees the Gnarley’s western expanse, maintaining ties with the Gnarley Rangers, the four elven clans of the deep woods, and the human settlers of the small villages nestled within the forest’s protective embrace.
Description
A weathered but imposing figure, Hrudek Oakheart appears every bit the living embodiment of the untamed forest. Clad in a grey gambeson with a green cloak covered in moss and vines that seem to shift ever so slightly as if alive, he exudes an aura of quiet power. His scimitar and hand sickle rest at his side, tools of both harvest and war. His dark eyes, sharp and piercing, betray his mixed Oeridian and Flannae heritage, hinting at the ancient wisdom he carries. Despite the passing years, he stands straight-backed, broad-shouldered, and ever-ready to defend the sacred wilds.
Notable Features:
- Green cloak that appears to move subtly, as if entwined with living flora.
- A deep, resonant voice that commands respect and authority.
- Hands that show both the callouses of a laborer and the precision of a scholar.
- Always accompanied by his two animal companions: Thandra and Borom, a pair of formidable brown bears.
Personality
Hrudek is a man of patience, wisdom, and conviction. He takes the long view, understanding that the cycles of nature and history stretch beyond the ambitions of mortal men. Though he has seen countless conflicts, he does not rush to judgment or action—unless the balance is threatened. He speaks with measured words, preferring mediation over conflict, but he is no stranger to battle when the forest is in peril.
Personality Traits:
- Steadfast and Patient – Rarely rushed, he considers the consequences of all decisions.
- Traditionalist – Holds deep respect for the ancient ways of the Old Faith and the hierarchy of druidic circles.
- Strategic and Pragmatic – Recognizes when to fight, when to yield, and when to let time take its course.
- Protective – Views himself as a father to the forest and its people.
"The trees whisper the truth of ages past, if only you have the patience to listen."
Role and Responsibilities
As Archdruid of the Western Gnarley, Hrudek holds vast responsibilities, ensuring that the forest remains a bastion of the natural order while navigating the political complexities of an ever-changing world.
Guardian of the Gnarley
- Oversees the balance between civilization and wilderness within the western half of the Gnarley.
- Works to prevent reckless expansion by Verbobonc, Dyvers, and Greyhawk into the ancient woodlands.
- Organizes druidic rituals to ensure the continued vitality of the land.
Leader of the Druids of the Gnarley
- A close ally and equal to Great Druid Hildefer Paravis, overseeing matters west of the Imeryds Run.
- Direct mentor to several prominent druids, including Kella and Jaroo Ashstaff (of Hommlet).
- Ensures the Old Faith remains strong in the face of increasing religious competition.
Mediator and Diplomat
- Maintains delicate relations with the Elves of the Gnarley Forest, especially the four ruling clans of Sherendyl, Meldarin, Fealefel, and Enlanefel.
- Supports the Gnarley Rangers but expresses concern over Randar Redaxe’s brutal methods against orcish tribes.
- Negotiates with human settlements, including Twilight Falls, to prevent over-logging of Ipp Wood trees.
"The ambitions of men and kingdoms crumble to dust, but the roots of the Oerthmother remain."
Motivations and Goals
Hrudek Oakheart stands at a crossroads in his life. His once fiery zeal has been tempered by time, and though he remains a mighty force of nature, he has begun to think of succession. He seeks to pass his wisdom to a worthy successor before the Oerthmother calls him home. His goals remain steadfast, however:
- Protect the Balance – Ensure that neither the ambitions of men nor the excesses of wild things disrupt the cycle of nature.
- Find a Successor – He sees the need to train and appoint a new Archdruid who shares his vision.
- Counter Urban Expansion – The growing influence of Verbobonc, Dyvers, and Greyhawk is becoming a pressing concern.
- Contain the Evil of the Temple – Though the Temple of Elemental Evil has been cast down, he remains vigilant of cultists who might seek its rebirth.
"The balance of nature is not a suggestion—it is law. Defy it at your peril."
Relationships
Hrudek has forged many alliances in his long years, but he remains ever cautious in his dealings.
Allies
- Great Druid Hildefer Paravis – A trusted colleague and one of the few he confides in completely.
- Kella and Jaroo Ashstaff – Two of his most loyal and capable assistants.
- Narandreia the Half-Fey Bard – A skilled diplomat and lorekeeper who serves the Old Faith.
- Eluvithyl the Half-Elven Ranger-Druid – His eyes and ears in the deeper parts of the forest.
- Gnarley Rangers – A longstanding ally, though he questions some of their more militant actions.
- The Druids of the Gnarley – His primary force for maintaining the natural balance.
"The foolish believe power is found in the sword or the coin. The wise know it is in the seed and the soil."
Adversaries and Threats
- Randar Redaxe – The ranger’s violent methods against orcs have disrupted a delicate equilibrium.
- The Viscounty of Verbobonc – While not outright hostile, their expansion is a major concern.
- Cult of the Elder Elemental Eye – A lurking evil that must be watched for signs of resurgence.
- The Black Thorn Orcs – A growing threat that could destabilize the region if not kept in check.
- The Ur-Flannae Undead – Buried deep beneath his own dwelling, these ancient horrors remain a persistent worry.
"I have seen mountains fall, rivers shift, and kings kneel. The forest watches, and it remembers."
Residence
Hrudek’s home is an ancient ruined temple deep within the Gnarley, where little remains but cracked flagstones, broken columns, and a crumbling entrance. However, beneath the ruins lie sprawling catacombs, home to dark and restless spirits from an age long past. Hrudek resides here not out of comfort but out of necessity—to ensure no grave robbers disturb the horrors that slumber beneath. His simple log cabin leans against the ruins, blending seamlessly with the mossy stones and overgrown roots.
The Ruins in the Western Gnarley Forest
Nestled deep within the Western Gnarley Forest, Hrudek Oakheart's humble log cabin leans against the remnants of an ancient temple. The temple, now a shadow of its former glory, is marked by broken flagstones, crumbling columns, and a grand entrance staircase leading to the catacombs below. These catacombs, once a sacred burial ground, now serve as Hrudek's home and a deterrent to tomb raiders who might awaken the Ur-Flannae undead within.
Ancient History
The Gnarley Forest, a temperate woodland filled with bronzewood, oak, elm, and hornwood trees, has long been a place of mystery and danger. The forest is home to various inhabitants, including woodsmen, sylvan elves, gnomes, and even a sorority of Swanmays. The Western Gnarley Forest, in particular, has a rich history tied to the ancient Ur-Flannae, a group of powerful mystics, sorcerers, wizards, and necromancers among the Flan tribes.
The Ur-Flannae and the Ruins
The Ur-Flannae, known for their necromantic magic, were greatly feared by the Flan and Oeridians alike. They built numerous temples and strongholds throughout the Flanaess, including the one in the Western Gnarley Forest. This temple, dedicated to their dark arts, was a place of power and ritual. The catacombs beneath the temple served as a burial ground for their most powerful necromancers, who were believed to guard their secrets even in death.
The Fall of the Ur-Flannae
The Ur-Flannae's reign came to an end as their dark practices drew the ire of neighboring tribes and kingdoms. The temple in the Western Gnarley Forest was abandoned and fell into ruin. Over time, the forest reclaimed the site, and the temple's existence faded into legend.
Hrudek Oakheart's Role
Hrudek Oakheart, the Archdruid of the Western Gnarley, chose this location for its seclusion and the natural protection it offered. By living in the ruins, Hrudek ensures that the Ur-Flannae undead remain undisturbed, protecting both the forest and the adventurers who might otherwise awaken these ancient horrors.
Modern Significance
Today, the ruins serve as a reminder of the forest's ancient past and the power that once resided there. Hrudek's presence adds a layer of protection and wisdom, ensuring that the forest remains a place of balance and harmony.
Campaign Hooks and Quests
- Exploration and Mystery: The ancient, ruined temple and its catacombs offer a wealth of opportunities for adventurers to explore. Players might be drawn to investigate the ruins, uncovering lost artifacts, ancient lore, or even forgotten spells that can aid them in their quests.
- Guardianship and Defense: As the Archdruid, Hrudek Oakheart is dedicated to protecting the temple and its catacombs from tomb raiders and adventurers who might inadvertently awaken the Ur-Flannae undead. The players could be recruited by Hrudek to help defend the ruins, possibly leading to an alliance with him.
- Ur-Flannae Undead: The presence of Ur-Flannae undead within the catacombs can serve as a significant plot point. The players might need to delve into the catacombs to eliminate this ancient threat, uncovering more about the history of the Ur-Flannae in the process.
- Political Intrigue: The ruins might attract the attention of other factions within the Gnarley Forest or beyond. Players could find themselves caught in a web of political intrigue, as various groups vie for control over the powerful necromantic relics believed to be hidden within the ruins.
- Druidic Lore: Hrudek's role as an Archdruid provides an opportunity for the players to learn more about druidic practices and the history of the druids in the Gnarley Forest. They might even seek to gain Hrudek's favor or mentorship, learning powerful nature-based magic in return.
Final Thoughts
Hrudek Oakheart is more than a druid—he is a force of nature, a shepherd of the wilds, and a sentinel of ancient wisdom. In a time of growing change, he stands as one of the last bastions of the Old Ways, a reminder that, in the end, nature always endures.
"Balance is not passivity. To preserve what must be, I will act. And when I do, the forest shall rise with me."
Hrudek Oakheart - Archdruid of the Western Gnarley
Medium Humanoid (Human), Neutral
Armor Class: 19 (Gambeson +2, Heavy Wooden Shield +1, Amulet of Natural Armor +3)
Hit Points: 67 (13d8)
Speed: 30 ft.
Attributes
STR 13 (+1) | DEX 11 (+0) | CON 11 (+0) | INT 14 (+2) | WIS 24 (+7) | CHA 17 (+3)
Saving Throws
Fort +8, Ref +4, Will +15 (Advantage vs Fey Spells & Effects)
Skills
Survival +9 (+11 in natural terrain), Nature +9, Perception +7, Animal Handling +10, Insight +8, Spellcasting +12
Damage Resistances
Poison (immune), Non-magical bludgeoning/piercing/slashing from natural attacks
Senses
Passive Perception 17
Languages
Common, Druidic, Sylvan, Elven, Gnomish
Actions
Multiattack. Hrudek makes two melee attacks.
Scimitar. Melee Weapon Attack: +11 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target.
Hit: 7 (1d6+2) slashing damage.
Wild Shape (5/day). Hrudek can transform into a Large, Tiny, or Plant creature he has seen.
Summon Beasts (1/day). Hrudek can cast Conjure Animals (8 CR 1/4 creatures, or 2 CR 2 creatures).
Call Lightning (Recharge 5-6). Hrudek calls down a bolt of lightning in a 60 ft. radius, forcing creatures to make a DC 18 Dex save or take 27 (6d10) lightning damage, half on a success.
Bonus Actions
Nature’s Step. Hrudek ignores difficult terrain caused by plants and cannot be tracked unless he wishes.
A Thousand Faces. Hrudek can alter his appearance at will, as per Disguise Self.
Legendary Actions (3/Turn)
Hrudek can take three legendary actions, choosing from the options below.
- Druidic Recovery. Hrudek regains 10 hit points.
- Command the Wild. A beast or plant within 60 ft. follows a single-word command for 1 minute (DC 17 Wis save to resist).
- Repel Wood (Costs 2 Actions). Hrudek magically pushes wooden objects and creatures carrying them 30 ft. away.
Spellcasting (Druid Level 13, DC 18)
Cantrips (At Will): Guidance, Detect Magic, Light, Druidcraft
1st Level (4 Slots): Faerie Fire, Cure Wounds, Speak with Animals
2nd Level (3 Slots): Barkskin, Lesser Restoration, Moonbeam
3rd Level (3 Slots): Call Lightning, Dispel Magic, Plant Growth
4th Level (3 Slots): Freedom of Movement, Ice Storm
5th Level (2 Slots): Wall of Thorns, Commune with Nature
6th Level (1 Slot): Heal
7th Level (1 Slot): Control Weather
Equipment & Magic Items
- Cloak of the Woodlands: Casts Entangle 3/day, grants +5 to Climb checks.
- Phylactery of Wisdom +2: Enhances spell save DCs and wisdom-based checks.
- Ring of Climbing: Grants climbing speed equal to walking speed.
- Scimitar +1: Hrudek's signature weapon.
- Healer’s Kit: Used to stabilize and heal allies.
Companions
Hrudek is always accompanied by his two brown bears, Thandra and Borom, who act as loyal guardians and scouts.
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