Part 1: Safe Passage
Quest Updated: The Assassin at Large
Objective: Search Twin Elms for signs of Thaos
You enter Hearthsong from the southwest, where the warrior guarding Palisade Gate (17) greets you. He tells you that you are free to explore Hearthsong, but can tread no deeper into Twin Elms. Before continuing in, ask him about the Builders, the area, and why your movements are restricted. You receive a clue to speak to someone within the Passage of the Six (18), this area’s focal structure.
Just inside the front gate, speak to one of the concerned tribesman. He tells you about a foreigner who broke into the forbidden districts, Teir Evron, the tower under the giant elms. Pick his brain and then move on. This tacks an addendum onto the main quest.
As you explore the area, you can visit the market (19) and find a variety of items to buy from the many different vendors. You can meet and speak to Alarhî in her home (20) near the north exit if you have started the “Hard Bargain” quest. Otherwise, you will find her at The Market. Talk to the Protector guarding the passage to the Oldsong district, and he suggests you find one of the Anamenfath in the Passage of the Six if you want to get past him. This updates the main quest.
Main Quest: The Assassin at Large
Objective: Seek audience with the Anamenfath in the Passage of the Six
Passage of the Six
The building known as the Passage of the Six (18) is in the middle of the village. Once inside, pass the group of tribesfolk, and move to the rear of the longhouse, where Anamenfath Bethwl stands, flanked by her two Glanfathan guards.
As you approach, you sense something else in this hall—the spirit of an Orlan man, who you deem to be Anamenfath’s ancestor. He wants you to reason with five other Anamfatha—two more Orlans, a dwarf, and two elves. Speak to him about any topic you wish (i.e., visiting the other districts, who you’re looking for, and the other Orlan). You enter another vision, after which it is agreed that you may continue to explore all the districts.
You may ask additional questions, including information on the six tribes and the totems related to them that are displayed in this longhouse. Anamenfath suggests you seek out the Delemgan sisters in Elms’ Reach. Note that any exit out of Hearthsong into Oldsong or Elms’ Reach allows you to reach the sisters in the latter district. Optionally inspect all the totems before you leave.
Quest Updated: The Assassin at Large
Objective: Speak with the Delemgan at Teir Evron in Elms’ Reach
Head north to the Builders’ Hearth (23), which is a trio of pillars around a central stone circle and the main path north (21). A Protector blocks your path, until you mention you have the blessing of the Guided Compass. You are now heading into Elms’ Reach.
Part 2: Activities in Hearthsong
Orange Tabby Cat
Near a set of stairs leading up to the Builders’ Hearth (23) is a playful orange tabby cat, which you may wish to befriend and bring with you as your companion familiar.
Celestial Sapling
Side Quest: At the Mercy of the Tribes
Side Quest: The Champion of Berath
Often overlooked in Hearthsong is the Celestial Sapling inn. In the southeastern corner of Hearthsong is Rotuk, an Ogre who operates the pulley system allowing access to this inn, where you can rest, purchase items (Camping Supplies and food), and hire adventurers (Levels 1 to 9, ranging from 250 cp to 2,250 cp). Just talk to the innkeeper, Ellitherion “Haggard Shoes” (29), who’s behind the bar. Celestial Sapling also plays a part in a couple of tasks.
Task: Hard Bargain
Speak to the Vailian merchant Rinato (27), who is conversing with a noble near the Celestial Sapling lift. He’s ranting about Alarhî (20) and how she’s selling duplicitous goods (see Act III: Side Quests & Tasks).
Speak to Cwineth (30) on the left balcony. She’s got a problem that can be solved in the side quest “At the Mercy of the Tribes.” You can also complete the Sealed Missive task by working things out with the High Monk in the room on the right (31). Lastly, you can talk to the Frightened Villager (32) about the return of Lord Raedric and his personal challenge from beyond the grave. See Act III Side Quests & Tasks for more information.
Side Quest: Sacrificial Bloodlines (continued)
After visiting the Warrior’s Hall in Elms’ Reach and getting the Rusty Key, use it to unlock the door of the dwelling (26) near the Celestial Sapling lift; you then find an abandoned Orlan child, Vela, in a crib. Choose to take the baby and you will start the “Sacrificial Bloodlines” side quest (see Act III Side Quests & Tasks).
Side Quest: Songs of the Wild (continued)
Enter Llensi’s Home (22), by the stone circle, and engage with Llensi about her fondness for birds. This does not initiate the “Songs of the Wild” side quest, but she will be a pivotal player when that side quest is active (see Act III Side Quests & Tasks).
Side Quest: Hunter, Brother
Return to the Passage of the Six (18). You’ll encounter Ridai and her hunters inside. She wants to know what happened to her brother in the forests of Northweald. Arthwn of Elms’ Reach is involved, too (see Act III Side Quests & Tasks).
Hearthsong Market
Before you leave Hearthsong, it is wise to trade and inspect the wares inside the market (19) in the district’s northwestern corner. Enter this large circular building, and barter with the following traders:
- Rhanet’s Imports (33): Camping Supplies, weapons and firearms, traps, tools, and potions and food.
- Alarhî’s Herbals (34): Expect potions aplenty from this apothecary.
- Masdên’s Supplies (35): Camping Supplies and food can be purchased here.
- Derwn’s Weapons and Armor (36): A good variety of metal armor and weapons and a torch.
- Tamra’s Furs and Skins (37): Natural armor offerings are available here, as are traps.