Can't really get started

[Smorgasbord of Pie]

I'm having trouble getting started. I don't really know how to get my first few tria. If I could get some money, I would buy a pick and progress my mining skill to get more money, but as is, I find myself incapable of getting my hands on even one tria (or is that a plural?)

Is there a place I can sell my dismembered rat parts or some enemise that drop money?

[Karyuu]

Mm... pie

Try looking around within the Hydlaa Arena for someone that will buy your animal parts - although you may have to travel to Akkaio to sell the hides. There are other merchants as well - have you tried asking other players in the game?

NPC quests also give out rewards - try asking a popular NPC for a job. Some are really easy doing and should help you out in the beginning.

[Smorgasbord of Pie]

Hydalla Arena....
Is that the plaza where your character starts off or somewhere else?

[Karyuu]

If you're an Enkidukai (feline character) you start in a city called Ojaveda. Otherwise you begin in various parts of the city of Hydlaa. To find the Arena, start at the plaza with a fountain and a large statue, and find the path to the right of the blacksmith there. No chance of getting lost afterwards, although you'll still have to find the merchant once you're within the Arena building Look to the upper levels.

[Smorgasbord of Pie]

I take it this labyrinth filled with strange monsters with sharp teeth is the arena you were talking about.
Ah well. I'll find this peddler of rat organs. Thank you!

Also... any idea why this pile of dust I carry around in my pocket looks suspiciously like a dwarf when I drop it?

[Karyuu]

Heheh, that would be because the dwarf model is the default for things some things that don't have their own mesh at the moment

[neko kyouran]

The better reason, is becuase everyone needs their own instant friend.   

[zanzibar]

I'm having trouble getting started. I don't really know how to get my first few tria. If I could get some money, I would buy a pick and progress my mining skill to get more money, but as is, I find myself incapable of getting my hands on even one tria (or is that a plural?)

Is there a place I can sell my dismembered rat parts or some enemise that drop money?

The best way to get started is to talk to people and make friends.  Demonstrate that you can ask for help in game yet stay in character.