Dural Hills

Dural Hills
Location	Southern Sanctuary Vale and foothills of Citadel Mountains
Realm	Terasil
Borders On	Kar-Thal • Citadel Mountains • Murazkar Range
Settlements	Reth-Vareth • Mal-Kelai

The Dural Hills form a rugged upland subregion along the southern edge of the Sanctuary Vale. Situated directly north of the Citadel Mountains and southeast of Kar-Thal, the hills mark the transitional zone between the high mountain slopes and the lower basin plains. The terrain consists of rolling stone terraces, shallow-cut gullies, and weathered outcrops that support sparse vegetation and limited habitation.

Historical Significance

The hills have historically served as a staging and training area for initiates from Kar-Thal and nearby settlements. Though not the site of major conflicts or civic centers, their proximity to the capital has made them strategically important for logistical movement and supply during regional stabilization efforts. Old trade paths and signal lines pass through the hills en route to eastern crossings.

Cultural Significance

While not heavily populated, the Dural Hills maintain cultural relevance as a borderland under the influence of Kar-Thal. Several small settlements practice stone farming and relay support for caravans bound for the deeper Vale. Echo rites and earth-oaths are sometimes performed on exposed shelves or in natural amphitheaters within the hills, particularly by initiates beginning formal observation or trial periods.

Settlements and Outposts

• Reth-Vareth: The main settlement of the area.
• Mal-Kelai: An outpost on the border of Telenkar Fold and a monitoring station for wildlife and travelers.

Notable features

• Stepped Shelves – Naturally occurring stone terraces used for both agriculture and training drills.
• Marker Stones – Standing stones used for path alignment, signal relay, or territorial memory.
• Ridge Points – Elevated outlooks with line-of-sight access to Kar-Thal and the northern plains.