the game actually has four maps. and Kitsune appears in the last one.
The advice on getting more gold is here
As for getting stronger, I didn't play the latest builds. But I think not much has changed. You first want to get achievements in Ironman mode to start with more perk, stat, skill points. Then you create a character that has around 5 Perception, a lot of Strength, everything else into Agility and Endurance. The weapons have formulas for the damage they inflict in description. Broadsword was cool, but it's nerfed as I recall. Reinforced Shield is good. In second town stat raising armor pieces are must have. As for armor, Diamond with skirt or a Full Plate is good, but heavy and decreases stamina.
After that in combat you generally defend when everyone attacks and attack when you can. Sunderer perk is cool. But mostly you spend perk points on stats.