The Cave of Lothnune

Deep in the forest of South-eastern Elvara, behind an intricate wall of ivy and sweet flora, lies the hidden entrance to the Cave of Lothnune.
Home to the 'healing waters' of the 'Spring of Amelioration', the Cave has a rich history of treating the sick, maybe even as far back as the Great Silence.
The inside has been set up into rooms, or wards, with tents and sections to treat those in need of medical attention.
The cave is still in use today as a sanctuary for the sick, the wounded, refugees and resistance fighters.

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History

A Holy Site

According to legend, Lothnune was the youngest daughter of Silvana and Brigantis and is a goddess of blossoms, flora and natural healing. As such, the season of 'Lothnune' - a time for the rebirth of wildlife following Callenta is named in honour of her.
The Goddess was born in the cave and was bathed there after her birth. Because of this the waters are said to be blessed with magical healing properties.
No one is sure who first discovered the Cave, but due to its mythological ties, it has been home to many Sepricaen Peoples over the years who have lived, worshiped, and healed the people held within its walls.

The cave is still protected by the Sepricaen Healers who look after the sick and injured who arrive there.

The Second Great Elvaran War

During the last Elvaran war, the cave was turned into a camp to treat those fleeing from the oncoming hoard of Vanguard Soldiers, particularly those running from the ruined city of D'aethron.
Now sectioned off behind drapery and cotton sheets, the cave still functions as a sort of military hospital for resistance fighters to this day.
More recently with the commencement of political turmoil in @Errol the cave has become home to many Errolonians fleeing war between the Nationalist, Monarchic Purists and the Pragmatists.

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Location & Layout

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The Cave of Lothnune is located in southern Elvara, surrounded by the thickest parts of the Elvaran Forest. Access to the cave is hidden behind a wall of woven foliage and is only really noticeable if you know where to look. It is also fiercely guarded by stealthy, Sepricaen archers and warriors, who hide in the tree line keeping watch at all hours of the day.

On entering the Cave, you are presented with a small chamber.
A gigantic carving of Lothnune, which has been intricately sculpted into the largest stone wall, flickers under the glow of the light of nearby braziers and candles, giving the illusion of her smiling at you as you approach.
Many people leave offerings of colourful flowers here, to give thanks for the goddesses blessings.

Beyond this room, a narrow corridor stretches deeper into the cave before opening out into a larger chamber.
A small waterfall flows down into a sizable cavern pool. The waters originate from the Spring of Amelioration and are warm at all times of the year. So much so that steam rises from the waters. Many people bathe here hoping to soak up some healing magic for their various ills.

Many antechambers branch from this section and are used as wards and private quarters for the healers.
Stalagmites and stalactites have also been carved into columns of shelves to store herbal potions, salves and medical/alchemical equipment.
It is said that the goddess returned to the cave as a young woman, and blessed the barren surroundings with her divine magic. According to some, this is the reason why rare plants and herbs, used in a variety of healing potions, are found growing naturally in and around the cave.
Whether the Cave or the Spring of Amelioration have magical properties or not cannot be proven. What is apparent though is that the healers who live and work within the cave have devoted to their lives to their fields, and work tirelessly to treat anyone who seeks their aid.

Type

World wonder

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