Do i require both Episode 1 and 2 of the Iceborn Saga to fully explore Bjora Marches?

I dont have both 1 and 2 but i was planning to cheapen out (aka get only one of the episodes) . What happens if i only have one episode? Is there a difference in terms of merchant access/map? I tried searching on the internet but i cant seem to find a post that answers my questions.

Im doing this for skyscale and getting ascended accessories.

I'm not 100%, but with EP1 you will have access to the east meta, plenty of eternal ice shards to exchange for currency and the vendor you need.

Best case scenario, you will also get access to the west side of the map and the world boss for even more shards. I'm just not sure if the tunnel is open to you or blocked until you buy ep2.

It may also work that ep2 will unlock all the map as well since achievements for that ep are spread across both sides.

So I'm sure one is enough, but given I got both for free, I can't give you firsthand experience