West Dunshire

West Dunshire is an area in The Lowlands province, which encompasses the Imperial county of Chrichheim. It is located in the centre-west of the province and makes up part of Chrichheim's border with Konigheim. 
It and East Dunshire were originally one area together, but the two were split up in order to better differentiate the two geographies.
The area only has one notable settlement - Dun Iar - but is also home to some strategically important hill ranges as well as several lochs.
== Geography ==
West Dunshire's geography is characterized by a mix of rolling hills and flat, fertile valleys that provide a stark contrast to the more mountainous terrain to the north and south. The area's climate is temperate, with relatively mild winters and cool, wet summers, conducive to the lush vegetation that blankets much of the countryside. The area's the lochs proves to be a vital element to the region's geography, serving as natural reservoirs that support both the local wildlife and the agricultural practices of the area. West Dunshire's terrain, while offering natural beauty and resources, also poses challenges and opportunities for Chrichheim's defence, reflected in the strategic significance of its hill ranges.
== Economy ==
West Dunshire's economy is, like much of Chrichheim, underpinned by a combination of agriculture and livestock rearing. The fertile valleys support a variety of crops, with oats, barley, and root vegetables being the mainstay, cultivated alongside the banks of the lochs and in the sheltered parts of the hill ranges. Livestock, particularly sheep and cattle, are reared on the higher ground, benefiting from the extensive grazing lands available. The hills, apart from their defensive significance, are also mined and exploited for their mineral resources, albeit on a smaller scale. There are also smaller industries centred around glassblowing and whisky production, mainly operating out of Dun Iar.
== Wildlife ==
=== Flora ===
West Dunshire's fertile valleys are adorned with lush grasslands and wildflowers, including bluebells, gorse, and heather, which paint the landscape in vibrant hues during the blooming seasons. The hillsides and higher grounds, despite their exposure to the elements, support a hardy array of shrubs and bracken, with pockets of woodland featuring oak, birch, and Chrich pine providing shelter for wildlife and contributing to the area's biodiversity. Along the banks of the lochs and streams, reeds and rushes flourish, creating a lush, verdant environment that supports a variety of aquatic and semi-aquatic species.
=== Fauna ===
The fauna of West Dunshire is abundant and diverse, with species adapted to both its aquatic and terrestrial habitats. The lochs and streams are teeming with fish such as trout and salmon, providing sustenance for otters and a myriad of bird species, including herons and kingfishers, that grace the water's edge. The woodlands and shrub-covered hillsides offer refuge to red deer, foxes, and badgers, while the open grasslands are home to rabbits and hares, creating a lively tapestry of wildlife across the region. Raptors such as buzzards and eagles can often be seen circling the sky above, keeping a keen eye on the ground below for their next meal. This diverse assembly of fauna supports the traditional hunting and fishing practices that are integral to the local way of life.
=== Atypical Species ===
Like all parts of Magnula, there are various kinds of creature that live here that don't conform to typical bestial classifications. The dense woodlands and secluded lochs are rumoured to be the haunts of water sprites and dryads, whose presence is often marked by a gentle rustling of leaves or a mysterious ripple on the water's surface. The hill ranges are said to be watched over by the spirits of now-deceased soldiers, ethereal warriors bound to protect these lands from ancient threats. The twilight hours may reveal the flickering lights of will-o'-the-wisps, leading the unwary traveller with their elusive glow.
== Settlements and Landmarks ==
* Dun Iar - a village positioned between two lochs. It is overseen by Castle Iar, positioned on Iar Rock, an incredibly old fortress that remains garrisoned to this day. As a result, it is considered a village of strategic importance
== Trivia ==
* West Dunshire is inspired by West Dunbartonshire, one of the council areas of Scotland.