Your adventure begins in the peaceful village of Totus. After the initial cutscenes introducing Cress and Chester, you'll gain control of Cress. Your first task is to head to the forest to hunt for game with Chester. Before leaving, explore your house and the village. Talk to your mother for some starting items and advice. There are a few NPCs who offer minor dialogue, but no critical items are hidden at this point.
Once you're ready, exit the village to the east and enter the nearby forest. This area serves as a tutorial for basic combat. Engage the Slimes and Bats to get a feel for Cress's swordplay. After a few battles, a cutscene will trigger, leading to the tragic events that set the main plot in motion. Return to Totus after the cutscene. The village will be in ruins. Head to your house to find your mother, triggering another pivotal cutscene. You'll then be instructed to seek out your uncle, Olson, in Euclid.