The Trader’s Hearth

Off to one side, at the edge of the tavern, stands a small counter.
Behind it, a vixen watches you with keen interest:

“Oh, traveler, welcome! Do come over and take a look around. There is much to discover here, and I don’t just mean a simple souvenir of this place: No, here you will find stories, little experiences, and perhaps something your heart truly desires…” The vixen gazes at you expectantly. “Go on, step a bit closer; I don’t bite! And if you find something you truly crave – whether for yourself or as a gift – well, we would all be delighted for you. But if not, that’s perfectly fine, too; you are more than welcome to stay by the tavern’s warming fire.”

With these warm words, she turns back to her work, her nimble paws filling out a few lists. After a moment, she looks up again. “Still unsure whether you should venture over? Well, I can’t answer that for you… But even if you don’t find what you’re looking for, I promise that amidst the lively bustle of the merchants’ hall, you’ll learn a thing or two about us and our world: Something like how we live, how we think, and I invite you to be a part of it. But…” She looks at you with an expectant glint in her eyes, “heed the words of Kiana – yes, that’s me – and beware of the hare; he’s absolutely insufferable when it comes to making a quick deal. Now, my friend, I’m sure you’d like to know what there is to discover here, wouldn’t you?

Well… why don’t you take a look for yourself? I wouldn’t want to spoil the fun! You’ll find merchants all over the tavern. Some speak German, some only English, and others both… yes, it might seem a bit strange, but that’s just how the Misty Forest and ‘The Old Paw’ tavern happen to be.

Here, you’ll find ‘merchant paths’, all encounters you might come across during your travels through the forest. Have fun to discover!”