Okay being straight up: I'm a brand new player as in maybe 4ish or 5ish hours logged total. Got to the Imp Cave, saw the whole investment in nodes trading thing. Thought that was interesting but have a few ticks with it I need help on.

Question 1) Does this mean that is I give a contribution point to the node, invest energy in it, invest in production nodes, and hirer workers (which I am 100% assuming is something I can do and not at all sure) then I can establish the place with a trade route and have it as a source of income?

Question 2) I have already invested 2 points in the Imp Farm (one was an accident) and am desperately trying to withdraw a point so I can invest then invest the remaing 2 (I only have 3 max) in Loggia Farm which well then, I assume, establish a bloody trade route so I can finally get this ball rolling. Problem is (starting at Main Map -> Imp Cave Node Management -> Invest Contribution-> Withdraw Contribution button):

A -> Can't withdraw my Invest Contribution point without withdrawing my Production Contribution point (which led me to Manage Production Node -> first Mining tab -> Withdraw Contribution button).

B -> Can't withdraw my Production Contribution point without withdrawing the Production Node (which led me to Main Map -> Imp Cave Withdraw Contribution -> saying 'Yes' to the Attention notice).

C -> Cannot collect an isolated Exploration Node (which led me to needing to invest at Loggia Farms).

D -> Loggia farms needs 2 contribution points to invest. I own 3 total, 2 of which are at the Imp Caves.

And now were back to point A, a vicious cycle on a new player when there's No. Real. Instructions. to explain how this shizzles works, don't you think?

Can some please explain how the heck this stuff works and how to get past this seemingly unending red tape? Most obliged.

Okay I ended up getting another investment point. Not sure if they're just that easy to come by or if being in the intro area and new gets you them like candy. I'd still like the answers to my questions, tho, if anyone knows?

Welcome,

the first thing you need to know about the basics.
Have a look here and work yourself in slowly.

www.blackdesertfoundry.com

Have fun in the game.