Some years ago, a set of zones was added to connect the Ashen forest to the area leading to the Dark Fortress to the north. As a trial, I have removed this connection to see if it changes the activity in the area. The area and all of its contents remain unchanged, except for the southern connection.
Forces on both sides have increased their scouting efforts in this area as a result.
More tweaks may be forthcoming.
Elodin