Sanctuary Vale
| Sanctuary Vale | |
|---|---|
| Location | Between the Citadel Mountains and the Khargaath Range |
| Realm | Terasil |
| Borders On | Khargaath Range • Citadel Mountains |
Sanctuary Vale is a vast highland basin located in central Terasil, spanning approximately 185 miles north to south and 75 miles east to west. Positioned between the circular massif of the Citadel Mountains to the east and the jagged volcanic formations of the Khargaath Range to the west, the vale is among the most geologically and culturally significant regions in the realm. It is the historical and spiritual homeland of the Orasians, containing their largest settlements and ceremonial centers.
Access
Access to Sanctuary Vale is limited by geography. The surrounding mountains create natural barriers, with only a few traversable passes through the Khargath Range and guarded paths from the southern boundary of the Citadel ring. Most trade and travel occur via the Deep Roads, which connect the vale to other Terasil settlements beneath the surface. Surface travel is rare and often ceremonial in nature.
Due to its central importance and defensive terrain, Sanctuary Vale has remained largely autonomous and insulated from external conflicts.
Climate
Sanctuary Vale has a temperate to sub-alpine climate, heavily influenced by the surrounding mountain ranges. It experiences cool summers and long, mist-laden winters. Precipitation is relatively low but consistent, feeding into a network of subterranean streams that support local agriculture and spiritual practices. The air is mineral-rich, with subtle seismic vibrations regularly observed across the terrain.
Notable features
The terrain of Sanctuary Vale is characterized by a combination of terraced stone fields, mineral springs, exposed strata, and river-carved canyons. Much of the land is partially cultivated through ancient methods of guided erosion and mineral enrichment, practiced by Orasian stone-tenders.
- Kar-Thal, the largest and oldest Orasian city, is located near the eastern rim of the vale, partially embedded in the Citadel Mountains.
- Dul-Val nestled in the southern pass where the Khargaath mountains meet the Terraces of Mist, it lies at the southern end of the vale, known for its quarry networks and basalt forges and for protecting the southern pass into the vale.
- Djes-Val is situated along the Khargaath foothills to the north west of Kar-Thal. Due to its secure position its an academic town.
- Mar-Thal is located in the far east of the vale.
The vale also contains several uninhabited zones considered sacred or geologically unstable, including seasonal fissures, stonefall fields, and resonance hollows.