The Hedge
The Hedge is a vast, rugged region east of the Rulk River, characterized by its rolling hills, dense forests, and wild, untamed landscapes. For centuries, it was a largely ungoverned and mysterious land, with the only major settlement being the trading hub of Sandor's Pass, which connected the Hedge to the wider continent. The people of the Hedge, known as the Hedgians, developed a culture of independence, resilience, and resourcefulness, living in isolated communities and adapting to the challenges of their harsh environment. Today, the Hedge is ruled by House Barranzo, who have brought a degree of order and unity to the region, but the spirit of the Hedgian people remains strong, and they continue to uphold the traditions and values that have defined them for generations. Despite the changes brought by their inclusion in the Stormclaw Empire, the Hedge stands as a land of rugged beauty and a testament to the strength and perseverance of its inhabitants.
Geography
The Hedge is a region known for its expansive, rolling fertile hills and vast flat farmlands, making it one of the most agriculturally rich areas in the Stormclaw Empire. The gentle slopes of the hills are covered in lush greenery, dotted with small villages and settlements that take advantage of the fertile soil to cultivate abundant crops, such as wheat, barley, and various fruits and vegetables. In the valleys and flatlands between these hills, large swathes of farmland stretch out as far as the eye can see, providing a steady supply of food for the region and the empire as a whole. Numerous rivers and streams wind through the Hedge, including the Pryce-Mercer River, which acts as a lifeline for the many farms and settlements along its banks, ensuring that the land remains fertile and productive. Despite its pastoral beauty and seemingly tranquil landscape, the Hedge can be quite rugged in certain areas, with dense patches of forests and rocky outcrops adding a touch of wildness to this otherwise bountiful and thriving land.
Climate
The Hedge experiences a temperate climate, with warm summers and cool, mild winters, making it an ideal region for agriculture and livestock farming. Summers are characterized by long, sunny days that allow crops to flourish, while gentle breezes sweep across the rolling hills, keeping the heat from becoming too intense. Winters are relatively mild, with light snowfall occasionally dusting the higher elevations of the Cinder Mountains and Royce Hills, while the lower farmlands and valleys rarely experience harsh frost. Rainfall is spread evenly throughout the year, with spring and autumn being the wettest seasons, ensuring that the fertile lands, forests, and rivers are consistently nourished. This balanced climate contributes to the Hedge’s reputation as one of the most productive and bountiful regions in the empire.
Natural Resources
The Hedge is a region rich in natural resources, making it one of the most valuable territories within the Stormclaw Empire. Its vast, fertile farmlands yield abundant crops, such as wheat, barley, corn, and various fruits and vegetables, providing a significant portion of the empire's food supply. The Royce Hills, which border the Hedge, are a source of high-quality iron, extracted through extensive mining operations and used to produce weapons, tools, and armor that fuel both local and imperial industries. Additionally, the dense forests scattered throughout the Hedge offer ample supplies of timber, which is harvested for building, fuel, and trade, while also providing habitats for wildlife and medicinal herbs. The Cinder Mountains, located to the east, are another valuable asset, containing rich gold deposits that have been mined for generations, contributing to the wealth and prosperity of the region. These diverse resources make the Hedge not only a vital agricultural hub but also a significant contributor to the empire's economic and industrial strength.
Alternative Name(s)
The Greenlands, The Eastlands
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