The Lair of Suzanne

A rough path leads through a small, sparse forest to monumental rusted gates. Behind them lies the lair of Suzanne the witch-viper.

She lives in a crumbling tower that is really an old dovecote, beside a pond covered in water lilies. An old fisherman's boat floats there and serves as a resting spot for the many birds passing through.

Many animals make the pilgrimage to consult the seer and learn more about the mysteries of the world. Despite her reputation and her aloof manner, she takes her role to heart and tries to help her visitors.

Suzanne demands a ring of precious metal as payment. She has amassed a great treasure of them, which she fashions into magnificent finery.

Lady Sibyl, a pragmatic magpie, welcomes visitors and handles the viper's affairs. The twins Marikatolsn and Ashliolsn, two chatty moorhens, handle the chores. Cheddar George, an old muskrat, has proclaimed himself head of the estate's guard, of which he is the only member.

The bullfrog Bojosar and his band of robber toads covet the place.