The Coastal Wards is a sprawling forest located west of the town of Killvik in the Stormreach region of the Silver Dominion. Unlike the exclusive and heavily guarded Princewoods, the Coastal Wards is a forest accessible to the common folk, making it a popular choice for local hunters and foragers. The forest is characterized by its sandy and rocky terrain, a result of its proximity to the coast. This unique landscape, where dense woodlands meet rugged shoreline, offers a diverse ecosystem that supports a variety of wildlife and plant species.
Landscape and Environment
The Coastal Wards is a picturesque forest where towering pines and sturdy oaks dominate the landscape, their roots often exposed by the shifting sands and rocky ground. The forest floor is a mix of soft pine needles and coarse sand, with patches of hardy shrubs and grasses that have adapted to the salty air and coastal winds. The proximity to the sea lends the forest a distinct atmosphere, with the sound of waves crashing against the shore often audible from within the woods. This coastal influence also affects the weather, with fog rolling in from the sea and occasional salt spray reaching deep into the forest.
Wildlife and Hunting
The Coastal Wards is home to a wide range of wildlife, making it a favored hunting ground for the commoners of Killvik and surrounding areas. Deer, wild boar, and smaller game such as rabbits and pheasants are commonly found here, providing ample opportunity for hunters to bring home food for their families. The forest’s edges, where the trees give way to the rocky coast, are also rich in marine life, with fishermen often casting their lines into the sea from the rocky outcrops.
However, the Coastal Wards is not without its dangers. The forest lacks the dedicated wardens and rangers that patrol the more exclusive hunting grounds like the Princewoods, leading to occasional encounters with dangerous beasts. Trolls, in particular, are known to wander into the Coastal Wards, especially during the warmer summer months. These creatures are drawn by the abundant fish along the coast and the relative seclusion of the forest. While generally more interested in fishing and foraging, trolls can become aggressive if they feel threatened, leading to several unfortunate incidents over the years.
Local Use and Culture
For the people of Killvik, the Coastal Wards is more than just a hunting ground; it is an integral part of their way of life. Families often venture into the forest to gather berries, mushrooms, and herbs, or simply to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The forest also serves as a place of recreation and gathering, where local traditions are upheld, and festivals are occasionally held beneath the canopy of trees.
The commoners of Killvik have a deep respect for the Coastal Wards, viewing it as both a provider and protector. While they are well aware of the dangers posed by the trolls and other wildlife, they also understand the importance of coexisting with these creatures. As such, there is an unspoken agreement among the locals to avoid certain areas of the forest known to be frequented by trolls, particularly during the summer months when the risk of encounters is highest.
Challenges and Incidents
The lack of active wardens in the Coastal Wards has led to a number of challenges for the local populace. The most significant of these are the incidents involving trolls, which, while rare, can be deadly. There have been several reported attacks on hunters and fishermen, usually when the trolls are startled or provoked. These incidents have led to calls from the townsfolk for more protection and better management of the forest, though the resources to do so are often lacking.
In addition to the trolls, other less obvious dangers lurk in the Coastal Wards. The rocky terrain can be treacherous, with hidden crevices and unstable ground that can lead to accidents, particularly for those unfamiliar with the area. The forest’s proximity to the coast also means that sudden storms can sweep in from the sea, catching unprepared hunters off guard.