East Dunshire

East 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 coastline with Loch Mor. East Dunshire is considered one of the most prosperous areas in Chrichheim and is home to many affluent noble estates.
It and West Dunshire were originally one area together, but the two were split up in order to better differentiate the two geographies.
== Geography ==
East Dunshire is characterized by a harmonious blend of gentle, rolling hills and fertile valleys that cater to both agriculture and the serene estates of the local nobility. It's coastline with Loch Mor not only enhances the natural beauty of the region but also contributes to its mild, maritime climate, with relatively wet winters and cool, pleasant summers that encourage lush vegetation and diverse ecosystems. The terrain, while predominantly pastoral and manicured near noble estates, transitions to wilder, more natural landscapes as one moves away from the coast, offering a variety of habitats that support a rich tapestry of flora and fauna.
== Economy ==
East Dunshire's economy thrives on a combination of agriculture, trade, and the wealth generated by its many noble estates. The fertile lands along the coast and in the valleys are cultivated extensively, producing a bounty of crops and supporting livestock that not only sustains the local population but also contributes to a vibrant trade with neighbouring regions. The proximity to Loch Mor facilitates trade and fishing, further enriching the area's economy. Additionally, the affluent noble estates play a significant role in the local economy, not just through their agricultural production but also by patronizing local artisans, craftsmen, and merchants. This influx of wealth and resources has led to the development of a prosperous middle class, with markets, shops, and services catering to the demands of both the nobility and the wider community.
== Wildlife ==
=== Flora ===
The flora of East Dunshire is abundant and varied, benefiting from the fertile soil and mild climate influenced by Loch Mor. The region's countryside is adorned with a patchwork of fields and meadows, where wildflowers, such as foxgloves, bluebells, and thistles, thrive alongside cultivated crops. The noble estates and their expansive gardens showcase a range of both native and exotic plants, reflecting the wealth and aesthetic tastes of their owners, with manicured lawns, ornamental trees, and hedges contributing to the landscape's elegance. Woodlands dot the area, consisting of oak, birch, and rowan trees, providing habitats for diverse wildlife and adding to the region's natural beauty. Hedgerows and small forests serve as windbreaks and ecological corridors, fostering biodiversity and supporting the ecological balance within East Dunshire.
=== Fauna ===
The fauna of East Dunshire is supported by the area's rich habitats from coastline to forest. The proximity to Loch Mor ensures a variety of aquatic life, including fish such as trout and salmon, which in turn attract otters and a myriad of bird species, from diving ospreys to graceful swans. The woodlands and fields are home to red deer, foxes, and badgers, with the latter often sighted at dusk along the woodland edges. The skies above the region are patrolled by raptors including buzzards and the occasional eagle, maintaining the ecological balance by controlling rodent populations. Farmlands host smaller mammals like rabbits and field mice, essential in the diet of local predators. This blend of marine, terrestrial, and avian life contributes to the ecological richness of East Dunshire, making it a vibrant area teeming with natural activity.
=== 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 ancient woodlands and secluded corners of the noble estates are whispered to be the realms of gentle fae folk, who, though rarely seen, are known to watch over the gardens and wild forests alike, ensuring their flourishing beauty. Along the misty shores of Loch Mor, elemental spirits of water play among the waves, stalking fishermen and protecting the loch's myriad creatures. The old ruins scattered across the landscape are said to be guarded by spectral sentinels, remnants of warriors whose deep grudges or unfinished business prevents death. Beneath the rolling hills, earth elementals shape the land’s very bones, occasionally surfacing to the surprise of any witnesses.
== Trivia ==
* East Dunshire is inspired by East Dunbartonshire, one of the council areas of Scotland.