The dismal wetland known as Ghreu Fenn lies in the southwest corner of New Dauntless on the border with Myrken Wood. The low-lying terrain means that most of the region is covered in thick swamps, transitioning into tidal marshland nearer the coast.
Foggy Bottom rests in the valley at the foot of the Paisiann Falls where the North Amasynian Route and the Dauntine Road tie into the North Passage Down.
A practical example of the perils of Too Much Education.
The Sikasoon mountain range divides Derry from Myrken Wood and New Dauntless.
The Priory of Stonebrook is the largest monastery in Diocese of Myrken Wood. It serves as home to many monks of the One True Faith as well as many other functions, such as a schoolhouse for Myrken's youth and a place of worship.
The Priory of Snowstill is a small monastic cell in the Diocese of Myrken Wood. Snowstill is currently in a state of disrepair after a large fire.
Myrkentown is the regional capital of Myrken Wood territory in the Amasynian Province of the Kingdom of Trae Kelsa. The walled settlement lies on the North Passage Down where it meets the road to Gilroy Pass, and a short distance north of the junction between the North Passage Down and Derry Row.
A quick ride up a narrow path from Myrkentown's common shops and buildings, The Broken Dagger stands as a welcoming retreat.Topography
Myrken Wood is a territory centrally located in the Amasynian province of Trae Kelsa, characterized by gently rolling hills, covering 760 square miles. Two-thirds of the land is forested, with most open land devoted to farming and grazing. Elevations above sea level range from around 200 to 500 feet.
Location
The Sagpa River bounds Myrken Wood's south. The aristocratic inhabitants of Amasynia bound the western portion of the Wood. The silvery woods of New Dauntless form the northern boundary.
Climate
A moderate climate prevails with winds from the south. The average January temperature is 37.5 degrees, and the average July temperature is 77.9 degrees. The typical annual rainfall is 42.59 inches with annual snowfall around 14.40 inches.
Transportation
The major highway, running north-south, is called "North Passage Down" and runs through the center of Myrken Wood from its start in Ghreu Fenn all the way to Heath. There are many roads that branch off the North Passage Down. In the town of Foggy Bottom, at the base of the Paisiann Falls, the North Amasynian Route and the Dauntine Road tie into the North Passage Down. The Mavour Road forks from North Passage Down in central Myrken Wood, heading west into Amasynia.
In Myrkentown, one can take the road to Gilroy Pass through the Sikasoon Mountains and on into Derry. The pass is only open during the summer, however. South of Myrkentown, near the Broken Dagger Inn, a 'safe road' known as the Derry Row, forks off to the east for those going to and from Derry.
Foot traffic is standard for a great portion of the Wood though there are those fortunate enough to own stables or horses of their own.
Public Service
Local law and order was formerly maintained by the now-defunct Order of Straka; since that organisation was disbanded law enforcement was handled first by the Brotherhood of Janeiro, and more recently by the Myrkentown Constabulary; the Constabulary's jurisdiction is limited by Myrken Wood's borders, and it is not unknown for criminals to attempt to cross the Sagpa River into Heath to escape the law. Following the termination of the Brotherhood's contract, the duty of defending Myrken wood from external aggressors has passed into the hands of the recently-founded New Myrken Army.
Fire and rescue squads are made up of volunteers who also serve throughout the land of Myrken Wood. Water is predominantly drawn from the Sagpa River and East Mavoiir River, but a few smaller runs flow through the region from which water might be drawn when necessary.
News
News is supplied via word of mouth and various publications throughout the Wood and its boundaries.
Leisure Activities
Myrken Wood has abundant natural resources, including the Sagpa, Posehabnak, and Mavoiir Rivers. These waterways, along with other natural areas, provide ample opportunity for hunting, fishing, boating, hiking and other outdoor activities. A wildlife management area, encompassing 1,084 acres is a particular favorite of outdoor enthusiasts.
The Mavoiir River runs through a 60 acre property with potential for picnics, recreation, education, and local government development. Part of this area is claimed by the land owners at Broken Dagger.
Activities open to transients and property owners of the wood surround a 352-acre natural lake. The lake is open for swimming, boating, diving, and fishing. There are five beaches for access to the water and a dock built for small boat anchoring. This body of water, which borders Broken Dagger's premises, is called Silver Lake, named for the mountainous region to the north.
Local Economy
Forestry and agriculture are the backbone of Myrken Wood economy.