Newbie with questions!

[Gavindale Marchovia]

I just started playing Deadsiege, and it looks great so far! A few quick questions... is loot - both found in items or dropped by enemies - random? Do enemies respawn? I assume the castles/dungeons/etc are not random. Are enemies always in the same place? How often do merchants replenish their stock? Thats about it for now, but I know that more questions will arise as I get into the game. Thanks so much!!

[Gavindale Marchovia]

I played through the first area - a crumbling castle - to the east and then a bit north, but when I got to the first boss, he tore right through me!! I was not far, and I was disappointed in how easily I was defeated. And I just started the game!! Can anyone help me with this?