In stark contrast with the surrounding desolation of Martens’ Sorrow, and away from Whispercreek river, roaring in the distance below Brittlerock, there’s a peaceful oasis of lush vegetation, a rare sight in the region. It is said that rainwater managed to deposit here after the landslide that shaped the nearby Gloomstone Shatter, and that’s what is keeping the area alive. But others suspect magic is involved, or even divinity.
A pond, reflecting the emerald color of the surrounding trees, hosts a variety of fish, ducks, and other birds. Peaceful bears roam the soft grass around the water. There’s a smell of undergrowth, carried by a brisk, silky wind. The careful eye might spot some Rustlings slowly partying in a few of the clearings, all belonging to the same species: teal, oval leaves adorning a blue/gray, smooth trunk.
Ill intentioned people will find it hard to find a pathway to this corner of tranquillity. As they approach the Emerald Retreat, it’s like their mind becomes clouded and they forget why they are here. They get steered by an invisible force, taking alternative pathways and forgetting the reason of their travel only to regain control a few miles away.
While the area is visible from other spots in the valley, only a handful of people manage to reach the central pond and gaze at the quiet scenery there.