Last week, we asked where our journey through the Old Forest should lead next.
The forest answered.
After a spirited battle between the factions, the Frogs leapt ahead with 25% of the vote! So grab your jumping boots, mind the lily pads, and join us for a visit to one of the busiest communities in the Kingdom.
Mouseborn Frog Paladin By Dimitra Avraam
🐸 A Hop in the Frog Pond 🪷
Life in the Frog Pond begins with a splash.
As the morning mist rises from the water and the first insects begin their dance above the reeds, the pond is already alive with activity.
Fishing skiffs glide across the lake. Snail farmers inspect their pens. Traders load barges bound for distant settlements. Along the riverbanks, patrols exchange news while arguing over whose route has the best fishing, although the frogs would tell you this is not arguing.
It is negotiating, and they are very good at negotiating.
Every lily pad, dock, and floating market is hopping with conversation. News travels quickly across the water, and everyone seems to know everyone else's business.
💍 A Pond-Side Celebration
If there's one thing frogs love almost as much as a good trade agreement, it's a good celebration.
Weddings in the Frog Pond are community affairs. Friends, family, merchants, fishers, travelers, and at least one turtle who wasn't technically invited all gather along the water's edge.
There is music and dancing, and there are probably far too many insects being served.
The festivities often continue well after sunset, with stories shared around floating lanterns while the sounds of the pond echo across the water.
For frogs, life on the water has always been about community. Trade routes connect settlements, rivers carry news across the forest, and every gathering becomes an opportunity to strengthen old friendships and make new ones.
