Eastern Forest

Both scouts and scholars agree, we should beware the forest. Yet at the same time we need the straight trees that the valleyfolk of old grew here. That leaves us no choice but to fortify while exploring with extreme care.

— Sir Robinridge of the Wooden Shields

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The eastern forest seems to consist of three different areas. The most western layer is a forestry area that the old residents planted for their lumber needs. Behind that is an extremely dense area with barely any game trails that allow for entering. And as can be seen from high above, an area with large trees and more space lies behind that, reaching as far as the eastern mountains that surround the valley.

Location

East/Northeast area of the valley

Inhabitants

Unknown

Relevant areas/buildings

• Forestry Camp
• Forester Woods
• Dense Woods
• Dark Woods

Relevant Explorer Logs

• 4709-04-09 - Hollowguard Log
• 4709-06-07 - Scholar Summary

The Forester Woods have been explored and seem to be safe, asides from the typical wolfpack issues. As for the Dense woods, only shallow explorations have been performed so far. Scouting parties have advised against sending a larger force in, as the tough navigation would make such a group vulnerable against ambushes.

The Dryads within the forest appear to be corrupted, with some still maintaining a sense of reason yet others will attack on sight. They are too powerful for us to hold back and appear to be advancing onto the forestry camp. We must find a countermeasure as soon as possible, or else we will have to abandon the area.

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Areas/Buildings

Forestry Camp

Located on the hillside near the river, the forestry camp is a now-fortified area where the foresters process gathered trees. A watchtower oversees the nearby forest as well as the area across the river. Currently a group of knights is located here and has been fortifying the camp to defend against any possible threats.

Forester Woods

The most western part of the eastern forest, this area was used by the old residents to grow straight trees. While the time since then has let it grow rather out of control, it's still filled with suitable trees. The foresters are slowly getting the area back under control while gathering trees for better fortification construction in the future.

Dense Woods

The middle area of the forest consists of trees and shrubs grown together in an extremely dense manner. Larger animals and scouts are mostly restricted to a limited amount of game trails. The lack of sightlines contributes to a feeling of dread. Some magic users claim they can feel a hint of corruption from deeper within the forest.

Dark Woods

Only visible from higher areas, the deepest part of the forest has far taller trees on what appears to be terrain filled with cracks and the occasional open spots. The tall trees mostly block the sunlight. While the area is too far to properly see, overseeing soldiers report signs of large movement within the shadows.