Every scent has a story
Choose Yours
Meet Emperor
The Wise Ruler of the Forest Kingdom
Every great kingdom needs a leader who commands respect without ever raising his voice. Emperor is the steady heart of Beaver Branch Soap Company—a noble ruler whose presence is calm, confident, and unforgettable.
Clothed in royal robes and crowned with timeless elegance, Emperor values craftsmanship, honor, and tradition above all else. He believes true luxury comes from quality, not excess, and every product bearing his crest reflects that philosophy.
His signature fragrance is a commanding blend of Saffron, Amberwood, and Fir. Bright saffron opens with refined warmth, rich amberwood adds smooth sophistication, and fresh fir grounds the scent with the crisp aroma of an evergreen forest. The result is a bold yet balanced fragrance that leaves a lasting impression without overwhelming the senses.
Those who choose Emperor appreciate confidence, integrity, and classic style. Whether you're heading to the office, enjoying an evening out, or simply want to carry yourself with quiet authority, Emperor is the perfect companion.
Signature Scent Notes
👑 Saffron – Warm, luxurious spice
🌲 Fir – Fresh evergreen woods
🪵 Amberwood – Smooth, rich, masculine warmth
Motto: "True strength is worn with quiet confidence."
Meet Empress
The Graceful Queen of Timeless Elegance
Behind every thriving kingdom stands a queen whose wisdom, strength, and compassion inspire everyone around her. Empress embodies quiet confidence, refined beauty, and unwavering grace. She proves that true elegance isn't about being the loudest in the room—it's about leaving a lasting impression through character and poise.
Draped in regal attire and wearing a crown worthy of royalty, Empress brings sophistication to every moment. She appreciates tradition, values authenticity, and believes luxury should be both beautiful and meaningful.
Her signature fragrance is a rich, enchanting blend of Incense, Myrrh, and Patchouli. Soft incense creates a warm, mysterious opening, precious myrrh adds a resinous depth, and earthy patchouli provides a smooth, grounding finish. Together they create a luxurious fragrance that is elegant, comforting, and irresistibly captivating.
Those who choose Empress appreciate confidence without arrogance, beauty without excess, and a fragrance that lingers with quiet sophistication. Whether you're attending a special occasion or simply embracing everyday elegance, Empress surrounds you with an aura of timeless royalty.
Signature Scent Notes
👑 Incense – Warm, mysterious, and luxurious
✨ Myrrh – Rich resin with timeless elegance
🌿 Patchouli – Earthy, smooth, and beautifully grounding
Motto
"True elegance is felt long after you've left the room."
Meet Rogue
The Shadow Walker Who Follows His Own Path
Not every hero wears a crown. Some prefer the cover of moonlight, the silence of the forest, and the freedom to forge their own destiny. Rogue is clever, fearless, and always one step ahead. While others follow the trail, Rogue creates his own.
With quick wit and unwavering confidence, Rogue thrives where mystery and adventure meet. He's the character who embraces the unknown, proving that the greatest rewards often belong to those willing to take the road less traveled.
His signature fragrance is a bold fusion of Black Currant and Absinthe. Juicy black currant delivers a rich burst of dark fruit, while absinthe introduces an intriguing herbal complexity with a smooth, mysterious finish. The result is a fragrance that's daring, sophisticated, and impossible to forget.
Those who choose Rogue aren't interested in blending in. They appreciate individuality, confidence, and a scent that stands apart from the ordinary. Whether you're exploring the outdoors, heading out for the evening, or making a statement wherever you go, Rogue leaves a memorable impression without saying a word.
Signature Scent Notes
🗡️ Black Currant – Deep, juicy dark fruit
🌿 Absinthe – Herbal, mysterious, and intriguingly smooth
Motto
"Fortune favors those bold enough to walk their own path."
Meet Enchantress
The Keeper of Sweet Magic
Some magic doesn't come from spells—it comes from the memories a fragrance awakens. Enchantress is the gentle sorceress of Beaver Branch Soap Company, weaving warmth, comfort, and wonder into every moment. With a kind heart and a touch of mystery, she reminds us that the simplest pleasures often feel the most magical.
Wrapped in flowing violet robes and carrying her glowing crystal staff, Enchantress transforms the ordinary into something unforgettable. Her presence is comforting yet captivating, leaving behind a trail of sweetness wherever she wanders.
Her signature fragrance is a delicious blend of Vanilla Bean, Cream, and Sugar Cane. Rich vanilla bean creates a warm, inviting foundation, silky cream adds soft indulgence, and sweet sugar cane finishes with a light, playful sweetness. Together they create a fragrance that is cozy, comforting, and delightfully enchanting.
Those who choose Enchantress love fragrances that feel like a warm embrace—sweet without being overpowering, elegant without being complicated. Whether you're relaxing at home, meeting friends, or simply adding a little magic to your day, Enchantress surrounds you with warmth and charm.
Signature Scent Notes
✨ Vanilla Bean – Rich, warm, and comforting
🥛 Cream – Smooth, soft, and indulgent
🍬 Sugar Cane – Light, sweet, and delightfully playful
Motto
"The sweetest magic is the kind that lingers in the heart."
Meet Hunter
The Patient Tracker of the Wilderness
Some adventures aren't measured by speed, but by patience, skill, and respect for the world around us. Hunter is the quiet guardian of the forest, a master woodsman who understands that every trail has a story and every journey begins with careful observation.
Strong, dependable, and deeply connected to nature, Hunter feels most at home beneath towering pines and open skies. He values preparation over haste, confidence over noise, and believes that the greatest rewards come to those willing to wait for the perfect moment.
His signature fragrance blends the earthy freshness of Oak Moss with the warm richness of Amber. Crisp woodland notes evoke the scent of damp forest trails and moss-covered trees, while smooth amber adds warmth and depth, creating a fragrance that is rugged, refined, and unmistakably timeless.
Those who choose Hunter appreciate the outdoors, quiet confidence, and fragrances that capture the spirit of nature. Whether you're hiking through the woods, enjoying a cool autumn morning, or simply bringing the freshness of the forest into your everyday life, Hunter is a scent that feels both adventurous and grounded.
Signature Scent Notes
🌿 Oak Moss – Fresh, earthy, and reminiscent of the forest floor
🟠 Amber – Warm, rich, and quietly sophisticated
Motto
"The greatest rewards belong to those with the patience to pursue them."
Meet Woodsman
The Master Craftsman of the Forest
Long before the first trail was blazed, Woodsman was at home among the towering pines, where hard work, skill, and respect for nature were a way of life. He believes the finest things are built by hand, earned through dedication, and made to stand the test of time.
Strong, dependable, and humble, Woodsman finds peace in the rhythm of the forest—the sound of an axe striking seasoned timber, the scent of cedar drifting through the air, and the quiet satisfaction of a job well done. He doesn't seek recognition; his craftsmanship speaks for itself.
His signature fragrance combines the bold character of Smoked Cedar with the luxurious depth of Oud. Smoky cedar captures the comforting aroma of freshly cut wood and crackling campfires, while rich oud adds a smooth, sophisticated finish that elevates the scent into something truly unforgettable. The result is a fragrance that's rugged enough for the outdoors and refined enough for any occasion.
Those who choose Woodsman appreciate authenticity, craftsmanship, and the timeless appeal of the natural world. Whether you're spending the day in the workshop, exploring the wilderness, or simply enjoying the quiet confidence that comes from quality, Woodsman is a fragrance that feels like home.
Signature Scent Notes
🌲 Smoked Cedar – Warm, woody, and reminiscent of a crackling campfire
🪵 Oud – Rich, smooth, and luxuriously deep
Motto
"Strong roots, steady hands, and craftsmanship that endures."
Meet Nobleman
The Gentleman of Honor and Refinement
True nobility isn't measured by titles or riches—it's earned through integrity, character, and the way you treat others. Nobleman is the embodiment of timeless class, carrying himself with quiet confidence, unwavering honor, and a deep appreciation for tradition.
Whether attending a grand gathering or enjoying a peaceful evening by the fire, Nobleman believes that sophistication is never loud. It's found in thoughtful actions, impeccable craftsmanship, and the confidence to remain true to yourself. Every detail, from his tailored attire to his polished demeanor, reflects a life built on purpose and principle.
His signature fragrance blends the refined warmth of Rosewood, the smooth richness of Dark Tonka, and the rugged sophistication of Leather. Elegant rosewood opens with a subtle woody sweetness, dark tonka adds a creamy warmth with hints of spice, and supple leather provides a bold, masculine finish. Together, they create a fragrance that is distinguished, confident, and effortlessly timeless.
Those who choose Nobleman appreciate classic style, quiet strength, and enduring quality. Whether you're dressing for an important occasion, leading with confidence at work, or simply enjoying the finer moments of everyday life, Nobleman is a fragrance that reflects character as much as style.
Signature Scent Notes
🌹 Rosewood – Warm, elegant, and subtly woody
🟤 Dark Tonka – Smooth, creamy, and richly comforting
🧥 Leather – Bold, refined, and unmistakably masculine
Motto
"Character is the mark of a true gentleman."
Meet Valkyrie
The Fearless Guardian of Courage and Honor
Strength and grace are never opposites—they are the qualities that define a true warrior. Valkyrie is fearless in the face of challenge, compassionate to those she protects, and unwavering in her pursuit of what is right. She inspires others not by seeking glory, but by leading with courage, resilience, and heart.
Clad in battle-worn armor with wings that symbolize freedom and determination, Valkyrie stands ready to face every new adventure. She reminds us that life's greatest victories come from believing in ourselves and moving forward with confidence, no matter what lies ahead.
Her signature fragrance is a vibrant blend of Dragonfruit, Peach, and Amber. Exotic dragonfruit opens with a bright, refreshing sweetness, juicy peach adds a soft, luscious warmth, and rich amber provides a smooth, elegant finish. Together, they create a fragrance that is bold, uplifting, and beautifully balanced.
Those who choose Valkyrie embrace life with confidence and optimism. They aren't afraid to stand out, take on new challenges, or inspire those around them. Whether you're beginning a new adventure or celebrating life's everyday victories, Valkyrie is a fragrance that captures strength, beauty, and fearless determination.
Signature Scent Notes
🩷 Dragonfruit – Bright, exotic, and refreshingly sweet
🍑 Peach – Juicy, soft, and naturally inviting
✨ Amber – Warm, elegant, and long-lasting
Motto
"True courage isn't the absence of fear—it's the strength to rise above it."
Meet Chieftain
The Fearless Leader of the Ancient Wilds
A true leader doesn't demand respect—she earns it through courage, wisdom, and unwavering resolve. Chieftain is the guardian of her people, leading with strength, compassion, and a deep connection to the natural world. She understands that the greatest leaders serve those around them and inspire others through their actions.
Raised among towering forests and untamed wilderness, Chieftain honors tradition while embracing the challenges of tomorrow. She is resilient in the face of adversity, fiercely loyal to those she protects, and always ready to blaze a new trail. Her courage is matched only by her kindness, making her a leader others are proud to follow.
Her signature fragrance is a vibrant blend of Hibiscus, Negroni, and Agave. Bright hibiscus opens with a lively floral freshness, sophisticated negroni-inspired notes add citrusy depth and intriguing complexity, while smooth agave brings a touch of natural sweetness to create a fragrance that is bold, confident, and beautifully balanced.
Those who choose Chieftain are independent, adventurous, and unafraid to lead with both strength and heart. Whether you're exploring new horizons, pursuing your ambitions, or embracing each day with confidence, Chieftain is a fragrance that celebrates resilience, courage, and authenticity.
Signature Scent Notes
🌺 Hibiscus – Bright, vibrant, and delicately floral
🍊 Negroni – Sophisticated citrus with aromatic bitters
🌿 Agave – Smooth, naturally sweet, and perfectly balanced
Motto
"Lead with courage, inspire with compassion, and leave every trail brighter than you found it."
Meet Princess
The Joyful Heart of the Kingdom
Every kingdom needs someone who reminds us that kindness, laughter, and wonder are just as powerful as courage. Princess brings joy wherever she goes, inspiring others with her warm heart, adventurous spirit, and unwavering belief that every day holds the promise of something magical.
With a sparkle in her eyes and a smile that lights up every room, Princess embraces life's little moments with grace and optimism. She believes true beauty comes from being yourself, treating others with kindness, and finding happiness in the journey rather than the destination.
Her signature fragrance is a delightful blend of Fruit, Berries, and Sugar. Juicy orchard fruits create a bright, cheerful opening, ripe berries add a burst of sweet freshness, and soft sugar leaves behind a warm, playful finish. Together, they create a fragrance that's vibrant, uplifting, and irresistibly charming.
Those who choose Princess have a joyful spirit and a love for life's simple pleasures. Whether you're spending time with friends, celebrating a special occasion, or simply adding a little sweetness to your day, Princess is a fragrance that leaves a trail of happiness wherever you go.
Signature Scent Notes
🍓 Fruit – Bright, juicy, and refreshingly sweet
🫐 Berries – Lush, vibrant, and naturally playful
🍬 Sugar – Soft, warm, and delightfully comforting
Motto
"A kind heart, a joyful spirit, and a little touch of wonder can brighten the world."
Meet Whimsey
Whimsey is Beaver Branch Soap Company's resident inventor, master tinkerer, and enthusiastic scientist. If there's a new idea to test or a problem to solve, you'll usually find him surrounded by blueprints, bubbling beakers, half-finished gadgets, and a workbench that's somehow organized only in his own mind.
His experiments don't always go exactly as planned. In fact, they rarely do.
Whimsey is famously scatterbrained and more than a little clumsy. Tools disappear, formulas get mixed up, and unexpected explosions of soap bubbles are considered just another Tuesday. But beneath the chaos is a brilliant mind that refuses to give up until every problem has a solution.
Thanks to Whimsey's relentless curiosity, he's responsible for creating many of Beaver Branch Soap Company's favorite products, including:
Baker Street Blue Soap
Whimsey's Confetti Soap
Rosco's Pet Wash
Pine Tar Soap
Pine Tar Salve
Natural Ant Repellent
Barber Shop Car Freshener
Black Ice Car Freshener
To Whimsey, every failure is simply another experiment... and every successful invention makes life a little better.
His motto?
"Science first. Clean up the mess later."
Character Personality
Occupation: Inventor & Product Developer
Traits:
Brilliant
Curious
Scatterbrained
Clumsy
Optimistic
Endlessly creative
Loves solving impossible problems
Likes
Chemistry
Gadgets
Sketching inventions
Coffee
Asking "What if...?"
Dislikes
Giving up
Wasting ideas
Organized workbenches (they're too hard to find things on!)
Fun Fact
Nobody—not even Whimsey—knows exactly how Whimsey's Confetti Soap happened. He insists it was intentional... but the evidence says otherwise.
The Alchemist
Long before a scent ever reaches the soap kettle, it begins in the quiet workshop of The Alchemist.
Part scientist, part artist, and part dreamer, he sees possibilities where others see ordinary plants and resins. Every bottle on his shelf, every dried herb hanging from the rafters, and every handwritten formula tells the story of years spent learning nature's secrets.
While the Explorer journeys into distant forests and forgotten valleys in search of rare botanicals, it is The Alchemist who transforms those discoveries into fragrances that awaken memories, inspire adventure, and bring comfort to everyday life.
He believes every ingredient has a purpose, every blend deserves patience, and the finest scents cannot be rushed. Through careful study, countless experiments, and an unwavering respect for nature, he balances woods, florals, spices, resins, and citrus into fragrances that are both timeless and unforgettable.
Many of his greatest creations never came from following a recipe. They came from curiosity, perseverance, and the willingness to try one more combination when others would have stopped.
His workshop is filled with glass flasks, worn journals, and shelves lined with ingredients gathered from around the world. To visitors it may look like controlled chaos. To The Alchemist, it is where nature becomes art.
"Every formula has a purpose. Every ingredient tells a story. Every fragrance begins with imagination."
The Explorer
Where others see the edge of the map, The Explorer sees the beginning of the journey.
With a well-worn pack, a trusted compass, and an endless curiosity, he travels deep into ancient forests, across rugged mountains, and through hidden valleys in search of nature's finest treasures. Every expedition is driven by one purpose: to discover the rare botanicals, fragrant woods, exotic resins, and unique plants that will inspire the next great Beaver Branch fragrance.
He is never in a hurry. The best discoveries are earned through patience, observation, and respect for the wilderness. Along forgotten trails and beneath towering evergreens, he finds ingredients that many have overlooked for generations.
Each journey fills his journals with sketches, notes, and stories. A weathered cedar tree may inspire a rich woody scent. Wild blossoms tucked along a mountain stream might become the heart of a new fragrance. A piece of golden amber resin discovered on the forest floor could one day find its way into a soap, lotion, or body wash enjoyed halfway around the world.
When his travels are complete, The Explorer returns to Beaver Branch carrying more than rare ingredients. He brings back inspiration. Those discoveries are then entrusted to The Alchemist, who carefully transforms them into the fragrances that define Beaver Branch Soap Company.
To The Explorer, every trail leads to possibility, every season offers something new, and every ingredient has a story waiting to be told.
"Every journey uncovers a treasure. Every discovery inspires a fragrance. Every adventure begins with curiosity."
The Soapmaker's Wife
Some believe Beaver Branch Soap Company was built with kettles, oils, and hard work.
Those who know its story understand it was built with something even more important—love.
Behind every handcrafted bar of soap, every carefully blended lotion, every fragrance that finds its way into someone's home, and every dream that slowly became reality stands The Soapmaker's Wife.
She is the quiet strength that holds Beaver Branch together.
While the Soapmaker spends long hours perfecting recipes and experimenting with new ideas, she reminds him why he started in the first place. She sees possibilities when others see obstacles, celebrates every small victory, and never lets discouragement linger for long.
Her workshop may not be filled with rare botanicals or shelves of glass flasks like The Alchemist's, nor does she wander distant forests in search of hidden treasures like The Explorer. Instead, she creates something just as valuable—a place where every visitor feels welcome.
She has an uncanny gift for turning ordinary moments into cherished memories. Whether stirring a fresh batch of soap, wrapping a finished bar with care, arranging gift boxes for the holidays, or simply sharing a warm smile with a customer, she believes every detail matters.
To her, soap is never just soap.
It is comfort after a difficult day.
It is a thoughtful gift that tells someone they are appreciated.
It is a familiar fragrance that brings back childhood memories.
It is the simple joy of slowing down long enough to care for yourself.
She understands that the products leaving Beaver Branch carry more than natural ingredients—they carry the hands, hearts, and hopes of the people who made them.
Patience is one of her greatest strengths. She knows that good things rarely happen overnight. A recipe may take dozens of attempts before it's just right. A fragrance might require months of careful refinement. Success is earned one small step at a time, and she is there to encourage every one of those steps.
Her kitchen has become an extension of the workshop. Wooden spoons, mixing bowls, drying herbs, and well-loved recipe cards tell the story of countless evenings spent helping test new creations. More than once, she has been the first to notice when a fragrance needed a softer floral note, a warmer vanilla finish, or just a little more time to develop.
She has a remarkable eye for beauty in the smallest details. A sprig of lavender tied around a gift box. A handwritten thank-you note tucked inside an order. A carefully chosen ribbon. A display arranged so that customers instantly feel at home. These touches often go unnoticed individually, but together they create the warmth and hospitality that people remember long after they've left.
Visitors often assume she simply helps around the workshop.
The truth is far greater.
She is the first person to celebrate a successful new recipe and the first to offer encouragement when one doesn't work out. She reminds everyone that perfection isn't the goal—creating something with honesty, craftsmanship, and care is.
Among the Beaver Branch family, she is known as the keeper of traditions. She remembers the stories behind every fragrance, every favorite recipe, and every milestone that brought the company to where it is today. She ensures that as Beaver Branch grows, it never loses the warmth and authenticity that inspired it from the beginning.
The Explorer may return with rare discoveries.
The Alchemist may transform those discoveries into unforgettable fragrances.
The Soapmaker may craft them into products that nourish the skin.
But it is The Soapmaker's Wife who fills every creation with warmth, kindness, and heart.
She reminds everyone that true craftsmanship is more than mastering ingredients—it is caring deeply about the people who will one day use what you've made.
To those who know her, she is far more than the Soapmaker's wife.
She is the heart of Beaver Branch.
"Every batch is stirred with care. Every package is wrapped with love. Every customer is treated like family."
Shelly Gizzards
The Chicken Tender and Egg Trader
If there's a happy animal anywhere in Beaver Branch, chances are it has wandered through Shelly Gizzards' farm.
Shelly has a remarkable gift for understanding animals. Her peaceful homestead is home to a lively flock of chickens, waddling ducks, chatty geese, curious rabbits, and a small herd of gentle sheep that happily follow her wherever she goes. Every animal under her care is treated like family, and many folks swear her hens lay the happiest eggs in the valley.
Never far from her side is Penny, her towering Great Dane. Much like Rosco, Penny is a gentle giant with a heart as big as she is. Though her size startles newcomers, she's known for carefully watching over wandering ducklings, greeting visitors with an enthusiastic tail wag, and occasionally believing she's still lap-sized.
Shelly's farm supplies much of Beaver Branch with fresh eggs, soft wool, and one of the valley's most treasured ingredients—rich lanolin, carefully gathered from the fleece of her sheep. The Soapmaker and his wife eagerly await each visit, using Shelly's lanolin to create luxurious lotions, healing salves, and nourishing soaps that are famous throughout the region.
Shelly believes that healthy animals create the finest gifts nature has to offer. She never rushes the seasons, never takes more than her animals willingly provide, and always leaves enough for tomorrow. Her quiet wisdom and gentle heart have earned her the affection of everyone in Beaver Branch.
When she isn't tending her animals, you'll often find Shelly repairing fences, knitting warm wool blankets, delivering baskets of fresh eggs to her neighbors, or sitting beneath an old oak tree while Penny keeps watch over the flock. Children love visiting her farm, where every visit usually ends with a warm smile, a fresh egg tucked into a basket, and a story about one of her mischievous chickens.
Shelly's Motto:
"Treat every creature with kindness, and they'll give you more than you could ever ask in return." 🥚🐑🦆🐇🐓🐕
Millie
Master Pelt Specialist of Beaver Branch
If you want to look your very best, there's only one place in Beaver Branch to visit—Millie's Bucks & Does.
Millie has spent a lifetime mastering the art of pelt care, helping every creature in town look polished, healthy, and ready for whatever adventure lies ahead. Whether it's a spring molt, a festival trim, a tail polish, or a luxurious conditioning treatment, she believes every customer deserves to leave her shop feeling confident and smiling.
Her cozy little shop is filled with the comforting scent of pine, lavender, oat, and honey. Warm lanterns glow from wooden beams, brushes line every wall, and laughter can almost always be heard from inside. It's rare to find an empty chair at Millie's—there's nearly always a line of woodland folk waiting for their turn, happily chatting while enjoying one of her famous herbal teas.
Millie makes frequent trips to the Soapmaker and his wife's workshop, where she picks up handcrafted soaps, coat conditioners, herbal rinses, and nourishing balms made especially for her clients. She insists that the finest grooming begins with the finest natural ingredients, and no products compare to those made in Beaver Branch.
Her reputation has spread far beyond the village. Several times each year, a royal carriage arrives from the Imperial Keep, carrying an invitation for Millie to perform the Royal Pelt Conditioning for the Emperor, Empress, Princess, and the rest of the royal household before seasonal celebrations and grand festivals. It's considered one of the highest honors in her profession, though Millie insists every customer deserves the same care—whether they're royalty or a rabbit from down the lane.
Among her favorite stories is the day Shelly Gizzards nervously asked if she could groom one of her especially frazzled chickens. Although she'd never worked on a chicken before, Millie accepted the challenge without hesitation. The result was a beautifully fluffed, perfectly preened hen that became something of a local celebrity—and proved that no creature is too unusual for Millie's talented paws.
Millie is known throughout Beaver Branch not only for her remarkable skill but also for her warm heart. She remembers every customer's favorite shampoo, knows exactly how each pelt likes to be brushed, and somehow always has time for a kind word and a warm smile.
Millie's Motto:
"A well-groomed pelt isn't about looking perfect—it's about feeling your very best." ✂️🪮🦫
The Hermit
Home: Northwest Corner of the Alchemist’s Hollow
Trade: Pine Tar, waterproofing materials, and odd little bits of woodland knowledge
Known For: His old kiln, his pine tar, and conversations with someone named “Tilda”
Deep in the northwest corner of the Alchemist’s Hollow, where the trees grow thick and the paths become little more than trails, there stands an old stone kiln blackened by years of smoke. This is the home and workshop of the Hermit, a peculiar but kindly craftsman who has made his living producing pine tar for as long as anyone in Beaver Branch can remember.
His pine tar is made almost entirely from the bark cuttings and scraps produced at the Woodsman’s Camp. Rather than allowing the useful material to go to waste, the Hermit carefully collects it and slowly distills it in his ancient kiln, producing a thick, dark tar with a deep scent of pine, smoke, cedar, and earth.
Much of his pine tar finds its way to the shipwrights of the Amber Coast, who prize it for waterproofing ships and protecting wooden hulls against the relentless sea. He also trades regularly with the Soapmaker of Beaver Branch, supplying pine tar for soaps and other useful products.
The Hermit rarely ventures far from his kiln. He prefers the quiet of the Hollow to the bustle of villages and markets, and he is perfectly content to spend his days tending his fires, gathering bark, and working with his hands. Despite his solitary nature, he is not unfriendly. Those who happen upon his woodland home are usually welcomed with a nod, a warm drink, and perhaps an unexpectedly long conversation.
He is, however, undeniably odd.
The Hermit has a habit of speaking aloud when no one else is around. Most often, he seems to be carrying on conversations with someone called “Tilda.” He speaks to Tilda as though she is standing right beside him, occasionally asking her opinion or responding to something she apparently said.
No one in Beaver Branch knows exactly who—or what—Tilda is.
Some believe she is an old friend. Others suspect she may be a spirit of the Hollow. A few simply assume the Hermit has spent too many years alone beside his kiln.
The Hermit himself has never offered an explanation.
And whenever someone finally gathers enough courage to ask who Tilda is, he merely smiles, looks toward the trees, and says:
“Oh, she knows who she is.”
Then he returns to his work.
Perhaps, someday, Tilda will introduce herself.