The Blackwood

After death, the years of Black, the monster went away. Into the woods, we drove them back, where they are today. But someday soon, Darkness comes and brings death to the land; On that day, blood will spill at mankind's final stand.
-Thraven Nursery Rhyme

Geography

East of the Town at the Crossroads lies a massive forest. Even though the Blackwood could provide its surrounding cities with ample wood and game, even the most skilled hunters and Senders don't dare to venture far into the woods. The edges of the forest are full of rapid wolf packs, giant spiders and small lizard-folk; but something darker lies in the depths of the forest.
Legends speak of ancient monsters sealed in the depths of the woods and some ancient guardian. The demons bound to the heart of the woods have corrupted the trees and animals, twisting them into mockeries of their former selves. In the heart of the woods lies an ancient, crumbling fortress belonging to some forgotten evil. In the depths of this fortress lies a sphere of unnatural darkness, along with the once pure guardian of the woods. Its decaying structure mirrors the ward that binds the demons to the wood; their influence slipping out more with each passing year.
Surrounding the crumbling citadel is a thick swamp. Bubbling in the mire are the remnants of an ancient battle: massive siege weapons rot in the mud, rusty steel blade poke out from ground. A large war-band of gnolls roam the woods, scavenging from the ancient battlefields and killing all they cross.

Alternative Name(s)

The Darkwood, The Demonwood

Type

Forest, Boreal (Coniferous)