Nasteine

Nasteine is an area in The Lowlands province, which encompasses the Imperial county of Chrichheim.
Located in the province's north, this area is home of Fort Teine, a town and one of Chrichheim's largest settlements. It is also notable for having the huge River Konig run through it, making the area vital for transportation within the Empire.
== Geography ==
Nasteine's geography, largely dominated by the expansive River Konig, is a mix of fertile floodplains and rolling hills. The river itself, wide and deep, supports a diverse ecosystem of fish and birdlife, with lush forests and wetlands flanking its banks. Away from the river, the land rises into gentle, grassy hills that are interspersed with patches of dense woodlands and rocky outcrops. This diverse landscape supports a variety of biomes, from the riverbanks themselves to temperate forests and open grasslands, providing a rich environment for both flora and fauna.
The climate in Nasteine is temperate and often unpredictable. Winters are cold, with frequent frosts and occasional snow, while summers are mild and often wet, with rain showers punctuating sunny spells. The proximity to the River Konig means that mist and fog are common, particularly in the early mornings and late evenings. The region experiences a high level of precipitation throughout the year, contributing to the lush, green landscape and fertile soil that supports agriculture and forestry.
== Economy ==
Nasteine's economy is primarily driven by its strategic position along the River Konig, which serves as a crucial artery for trade and transport. The town of Fort Teine, situated on the river's edge, has grown into a vital centre of commerce for Chrichheim, facilitating the movement of goods and people both within the county and beyond. The river's abundant fish stocks support a thriving fishing industry, which is a significant source of livelihood for many locals. Additionally, the fertile floodplains provide ideal conditions for agriculture, with extensive fields of barley, oats, and vegetables.
Beyond agriculture and fishing, Nasteine has developed a burgeoning textile industry. Small family workshops and larger corporate mills dot the landscape, many harnessing the power of the River Konig to operate looms and machinery. This industry benefits from Chrichheim's abundant sheep farming, which provides a steady supply of wool for the production of high-quality cloth. Timber from the surrounding forests also plays a role in the local economy, supporting both construction and craft industries.
== Wildlife ==
=== Flora ===
Nasteine's flora is diverse and lush, shaped by the region's temperate climate and abundant rainfall. The fertile floodplains along the River Konig are blanketed with a variety of grasses and wildflowers, providing a colourful display throughout the warmer months. The dense woodlands are dominated by ancient oaks, beeches, and birches, interspersed with patches of dark, evergreen conifers. These forests are rich in undergrowth, with ferns, mosses, and a variety of fungi thriving in the damp, shaded conditions. In the more open areas, heather and gorse are common, adding to the rugged beauty of the landscape.
=== Fauna ===
Nasteine's fauna is as varied as its flora, with the region supporting a rich array of wildlife. The River Konig teems with fish such as salmon, trout, and pike, attracting herons, kingfishers, and ospreys. The forests and woodlands are home to deer, foxes, and badgers, while smaller mammals like hares and hedgehogs are common in the grasslands and fields. The area also hosts a variety of birdlife, from songbirds in the woodlands to birds of prey such as owls and kestrels. Amphibians and reptiles, including frogs, newts, and adders, thrive in the wetlands and along the riverbanks.
=== Atypical Species ===
Like all parts of Magnula, there are various kinds of creature that live here that don't conform to typical bestial classifications. Like most of Chrichheim, Nasteine is home to a variety of fae creatures. One of the more notable among these are the river hags, intelligent and manipulative fae that enjoy the deeper, obscured parts of the River Konig. From their underwater lairs they create foul curses and hexes, all with the aim of playing with the lives of regular folk. As well as fae, various spirits and elementals can be found, especially in and around the woodlands. These forest spirits are not usually hostile in any traditional sense, but are known to be fiercely protectice of their territory.
== Settlements and Landmarks ==
* Fort Teine - a small town that sits on a slightly narrower part of the River Konig. Due to its location, it is considered an important town for local trade and transportation.
== Trivia ==
* Nasteine is loosely inspired by the terrain surrounding Dundee, a real life Scottish city.