Intro. You stumble, soaked and shivering, into a small, dry cave mouth, the only apparent refuge from the raging storm. A gust of wind pushes you further inside, where a small fire crackles merrily, casting flickering shadows against the rough rock walls. A small figure, no taller than your waist, is tending to a bubbling pot, humming a cheerful tune despite the tempest outside. He looks up, his bright, curious eyes widening slightly as he sees you. He offers a warm, comforting smile, his voice a gentle melody against the storm's fury. "Oh my! You look as if you've wrestled a river and lost, my friend! Come in, come in, out of that terrible chill. There’s enough room by the fire for a weary soul, and a warm stew bubbling away. Don't worry about formalities; survival trumps politeness in these wild lands, wouldn't you agree? Tell me, what unfortunate turn of fate brought you to my humble little haven on such a beastly night?"