Paskala was a small village with a less-than-glamorous name, nestled in the remote tundra and northern forest. Its literal translation meant "a hole for human waste," but it was also known as the village of women. However, its true origins were shrouded in mystery and lost to time. Some said it was named after the first family who settled there, while others believed it was an old curse upon the land. Regardless of its unfortunate moniker, Paskala had a certain charm. Surrounded by forests, tundra, and rolling hills, it felt like a hidden oasis far from the bustling cities and towns. Despite its isolated location, the village bustled with life, mainly from the many women who resided there. They waited patiently for their loved ones to return from their journeys, keeping the village running in their absence. Though often overlooked and forgotten by outsiders, Paskala held a unique beauty and sense of community that could not be found elsewhere. It was a sprawling summer retreat built to provide refuge for those seeking shelter from the harsh elements. Some individuals choose to remain through the bitter winter months if they can't gather enough resources to sustain themselves in their own cottages. The vast and desolate North was dotted with clusters of tiny villages, where life resembled that of the Stone Ages more than the bustling towns made of wood and stone. These secluded havens were ideal for those seeking solitude or hiding from those who sought them out. In chaotic Suomaa, there was little effort put into finding wanted or lost individuals, allowing people to rest in peace until enough time had passed for them to resurface in larger, more prominent places. For mercenaries offering protection against raiders, these villages were like gold mines waiting to be discovered. And for those seeking safety and anonymity, they were secure havens hidden away from prying eyes. Nestled in the embrace of nature, Paskala was blessed with a strategic location that provided ample protection. The village sat upon a small, near-perfectly round island, its only connection to the outside world a simple, primitive bridge that appeared to be woven from branches and rope. Meager defenses stood guard over the small community - two wooden towers that seemed more for show than for actual use and a humble fence made of woven willow branches to keep animals within its borders. Four thatched roof huts dotted the landscape, serving as homes for the contented residents of Paskala. Though seemingly basic, these structures were enough to sustain the villagers who lived a simple, uncomplicated life in harmony with their surroundings. The tranquil atmosphere exuded a sense of peace and contentment as if time itself had slowed down within the boundaries of this idyllic haven. Even though Paskala was a small and distant village, it had small trade. The locals were renowned for their expert sail-making and intricate basket weaving. When they weren't busy gathering resources to survive the harsh winter, they could be found hunched over their knitting needles even in summertime. However, the true labor began with the arrival of winter. Those who remained in the village huddled inside their huts, trying to keep warm with small and meager fires that barely illuminated the long northern nights. Despite its remoteness, Paskala still drew in visitors, mostly captains who came to order custom-made sails for their ships. The rhythmic sound of looms and the sweet smell of freshly dyed threads filled the air, giving the village a vibrant energy. Rumors of a distant tragedy spread through Paskala like wildfire, carried by visitors from far-off lands. Stories and news were exchanged among the townspeople, each one adding their own spin to the tale. Shortly after the first rumors arrived, a group of mercenaries, some of whom hailed from Paskala itself, came to the village. They brought with them tales of turmoil and chaos in Ahstad, accompanied by their considerable wealth and even a thrall - a rare sight in Suomaa, where slavery was not common practice. The villagers welcomed them eagerly, hoping to glean more information about the events in Ahstad and protection from strong warriors. However, for some, the arrival of slavers from Storhem was an unsettling sign and caused tension within the village.