Danu Celta (Region)

Danu Celta is a large forest found in the south-easterly areas of Morrion. Originally the home of the ancient and immortal forest spirits, such as Ents, it has since become the fiercely protected home of the Wood Elves. They live in cooperation with the forest spirits, and are among the few that the tree-people will willingly allow into their home. The name Danu Celta roughly translates from the old Wood Elf language into “mother earth”; whatever the spirits call the forest is unknown to all but themselves, for their language is indecipherable. The region is considered strictly sacred by the elves and spirits that call it home, and thus they are very protective of it. Outsides are met with an eye of suspicion and illegal trespassers are shown absolutely no mercy. The reason for this, supposedly, is all in order to protect an ancient and powerful tree. All life is said to emanate from this tree, although nobody outside of a select few have ever seen it. Naturally, then, some doubt its very existence.
Geographically, Danu Celta is practically one massive forest. Isolated glades of relatively open field or hidden springs deep within the woods can be found by those who know how to navigate the forest. But, for the most part, travellers will find themselves lost in the seemingly endless labyrinth of trees and ferns. It is only at the borders with the Red Expanse and Raiontaine that the forest properly opens up, into green fields or dry grasslands - depending on what direction you’re going. Perhaps quite interestingly, much of the fauna in Danu Celta is not actually that dangerous - at least compared to other regions. Large eagle-like thunderbirds are a major threat, as are bears and cougars. However, many of the native species appear to be quite tame. It is the plants, however, that one needs to be wary of. All manner of unique flora grows in Danu Celta, and not all of them are passive. From large flesh-eating plants to fungi that infect and hijack the brain, one must be very careful when trekking through the undergrowth of the woods.
== Geography ==
Danu Celta's geography is dominated by a vast and ancient forest, with towering trees and dense undergrowth. The forest canopy, formed by a mixture of deciduous and evergreen trees, creates a shaded and humid environment beneath. This canopy allows only dappled sunlight to reach the forest floor, nurturing a rich diversity of ferns, mosses, and understory shrubs. Numerous streams and small rivers criss-cross the region. These waterways provide essential resources for the forest's inhabitants and shape the landscape with their meandering paths.
The forest is punctuated by occasional glades and clearings, which serve as vital refuges for wildlife and the region's inhabitants. These open areas are often home to unique plant species that require more sunlight than the dense forest allows. Some of these glades are naturally occurring, while others have been carefully maintained by the elves to support their way of life. Hidden springs and small ponds are also common.
The climate of Danu Celta is temperate, with distinct seasons that influence the forest's appearance and activities. Summers are warm and humid, with the forest floor teeming with life and the canopy providing a cool respite from the heat. Autumn brings a stunning transformation as the deciduous trees turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. Winters are cold but not harsh, with occasional snowfall blanketing the forest. Spring is a time of renewal, as the forest bursts into bloom and new growth emerges from the earth.
The borders of Danu Celta mark a noticeable transition from the dense forest to neighbouring biomes. To the north, the forest gradually gives way to the dry grasslands as it transitions into the Red Expanse. To the north-east, the landscape shifts to the fertile plains that are characteristic of Raiontaine. These border areas are less densely vegetated but still retain a sense of connection to the forest, with scattered trees and thickets.
== Natural Resources ==
Danu Celta is rich in natural resources, primarily resulting from its dense and diverse forest ecosystem. Unsurprisingly, timber is one of the most abundant resources, with a variety of hardwoods and softwoods that are highly valued for their strength and versatility. These woods are utilised by the wood elves and other forest dwellers for building homes, crafting tools, and creating intricate works of art. The forest also offers a wealth of medicinal and alchemical plants and herbs, many of which are unknown outside of Danu Celta. These plants are carefully harvested by the elves, who possess extensive knowledge of their healing properties and uses.
In addition to plant resources, Danu Celta's waterways are teeming with fish and other aquatic life. Freshwater fish species are common and, on top of being a food source, their scales, bones, and other parts are used in various traditional practices. The forest floor is rich in wild game, such as deer, rabbits, and wild fowl, which are hunted sustainably by the elves. The forest's mineral resources are less prominent but still significant, with deposits of clay and stone that can be used for crafting, construction and traditional practices.
== Wildlife ==
=== Flora ===
The flora of Danu Celta is a blend of towering trees, dense underbrush that features unique, often dangerous plants. Dominant tree species include ancient oaks, maples, and towering pines, whose interlocking canopies create a shaded, humid environment below. The underbrush, in turn, is thick with ferns, mosses, and a variety of shrubs. Among the more unusual flora are the many carnivorous plants, capable of trapping and digesting various animals, and fungi with mind-altering spores that can hijack the brains of their hosts. Brightly coloured flowers with potent medicinal and toxic properties are also scattered throughout the forest, their uses known only to Danu Celta's inhabitants and a few knowledgeable outsiders.
=== Fauna ===
The fauna of Danu Celta comprises a variety of species. Deer, rabbits, and wild fowl are common and form the primary sources of game for the locals. Predatory species such as bears and cougars prowl for prey, while smaller predators like foxes and raccoons thrive in the underbrush. Birds of prey, including hawks and eagles, patrol the skies. Equally, the waterways of Danu Celta are rich with fish, amphibians, and aquatic mammals like beavers.
=== Atypical Species ===
== Trivia ==