Giants and a locked gate are obstructing the way north (I on the Worldmap).
J Empire Boats
Here are some boats for the taking. They probably belong to the giants. In any case you need one to be able to explore the northern waters (J on the Worldmap).
Although the whole village turns out to help the defence, it is worth attacking because appart from the normal loot you find 400 coins, a Health Necklace and a Resistance Elixir.