The Reach

Overview: Knucklehead Lake, also known locally as "The Reach," is a large and deep body of water located in the northern reaches of Chernaya, near the Free City of Rostova. It is a crucial natural feature for the region, providing a vital waterway and supporting the local economy, especially during the warmer months.
  Name and Significance:
  The Reach: Rostovans refer to it as "The Reach" due to its long, narrow shape that stretches out towards the northern strait leading to the ocean. This name highlights its importance as a passageway, both for trade and travel, connecting the city to the outside world. Knucklehead Lake: The lake is also known as Knucklehead Lake because of the unique fish that inhabit its waters. These fish, called "knuckleheads," have a distinctive bony skull growth that resembles a knuckle, giving the lake its colloquial name. These fish are abundant and form a staple of the local diet, as well as being a key commodity traded in Rostova.
  Environment and Local Life: During the trading season, the lake is bustling with activity as boats and barges navigate its waters. In the winter, when the lake freezes over, it becomes a vast, icy expanse. Locals often use it as a roadway, traveling across its frozen surface on sleds and snowshoes. The surrounding area is known for its harsh, yet strikingly beautiful landscape, characterized by rugged hills and dense forests​​.