The first time you set foot in Divinity’s Reach, humanity’s threatened sanctuary in northwestern Tyria, look away from the bustling marketplace and looming towers. Shut your eyes and listen. Above the din of the crowd you hear children laughing, locals gossiping, and the occasional political debate. Down one street is a tour guide pointing out local landmarks. side alley is creeping with unsavory types striking underhanded deals. Just outside the Busted Flagon you overhear patrons spilling their most intimate thoughts over a pint. Open your eyes and walk around a bit. Chat up the locals and find some deals on weapons and armor. It helps to be prepared.

Once you’ve had your fill of the local flavor, it’s time to head outside city gates for some exploration. You amble down the road past Mayor North, who is trying his damnedest to maintain order in Shaemoor, a town relentlessly battered by centaur raids and bandit attacks. Past him, [bad word] stands encircle a large tree at the foot of the hill, where farmers hawk their freshest harvests for consumption. Some ripe watermelons catch your eye. You drop a few gold and ready your mouth for [bad word] of sweetness when a loud [bad word] past yelling about some creature down by the dam. Should you help, or should you stay and enjoy a moment’s peace? Moments later, the sun dips below the horizon, street lamps burn a steady glow, and slumbering crickets awaken for their nightly performance. light breeze rolls past, almost concealing the wing flapping of bats in the distance.