Sjoskogen and the Refugee Camp
Sjoskogen is a small, remote village situated deep within the forested regions of Vandros-7. Nestled along the eastern shore of a secluded fjord, the village has long been known for its quiet, self-sufficient lifestyle, surrounded by dense woodlands and frigid waters. In recent years, however, Sjoskogen has transformed into a sanctuary for displaced civilians and serves as the de facto headquarters for the Silent Path, an enigmatic faction dedicated to preserving the natural landscape of Vandros-7 and resisting the exploitation wrought by ongoing conflicts.
The Refugee Camp
Adjacent to the village, a large refugee camp has grown amidst the trees. The camp houses civilians fleeing the violence between the UEG-backed forces, the Iron Star Union, and various other factions operating on Vandros-7. Makeshift tents and shanties stretch across the forest floor, blending with the natural surroundings as their occupants strive to remain hidden from prying eyes.
While the conditions in the camp are harsh, the residents have worked together to establish a semblance of community, building communal kitchens, medical tents, and schooling for the children. Supplies are scarce, with the residents relying on foraging, fishing, and the occasional support from sympathizers to survive. Despite its hasty construction, the camp has become a beacon of refuge for those seeking to escape the relentless conflict consuming the rest of the planet.
Silent Path Headquarters
Sjoskogen and its surrounding forest serve as the main base of operations for the Silent Path, a faction known for its secrecy and commitment to non-violent resistance. Composed mainly of environmentalists, displaced farmers, and former miners, the Silent Path opposes both the UEG's and Iron Star Union's activities, which they believe are destroying Vandros-7's natural beauty and resources.
- Leadership: The faction is led by a council of elders and experienced environmental activists who prioritize the welfare of the refugees and the preservation of the local ecosystem. They maintain strict neutrality, refusing to ally with the warring factions that threaten their way of life.
- Operations: The Silent Path operates quietly, using guerrilla tactics to disrupt mining, logging, and other activities they see as harmful to the environment. While they avoid direct confrontation, they are known to sabotage machinery, plant traps along deforested routes, and assist refugees in escaping conflict zones.
- Security: The village and camp are well-hidden in the forest, with natural camouflage and a network of sentries who monitor the surrounding areas. The Silent Path’s defenders are skilled in using the forest to their advantage, employing traps, signal systems, and stealth to ward off intruders. They have adopted a "leave no trace" policy, ensuring that their presence remains undetected.
Strategic Importance
Sjoskogen and the refugee camp represent more than just a place of shelter; they embody the ideals of those seeking peace amidst the chaos of Vandros-7. The Silent Path’s neutrality and focus on environmental preservation have garnered the sympathy of some local civilians, making them a key player in the conflict’s social landscape. Their knowledge of the terrain and the natural resources around Sjoskogen also make them valuable to both the Union and UEG forces.