In terms of timed events, it wouldn't necessarily require that much more work. There aren't a ton of options to implement.
1. Ritual. After x days, an event occurs. You are notified that Rath interrupted it. He's locked up. No cinematic required. Someone appears at camp and let's you know. Doesn't even need voice acting. They COULD do all that, mind you, but it's not necessary. X days later, tieflings are expelled by force. Now they are at your camp with nowhere else to go. You still have a merchant, etc. You just can't access the grove because you long rested WAY too much... And I mean WAY too much.
2. Goblin leaders. After x number of days, you are warned. Goblins were seen lurking close to the grove. They may have found it the secret entrance. Hurry. Kill the leaders before it's too late. Who knows when the attack will come. X days later, the attack occurs.
THAT is just two examples. Doesn't need to be huge.
