Lands

 

The lands of Stormholm are cradled by the ancient mythical forests known as Vala Rauca, a living woodland that does far more than surround the House. These forests protect Stormholm, shelter its people, and provide for those deemed worthy to walk beneath their branches. To say, “these are our forests,” would be too simple a claim. Stormholm does not merely possess Vala Rauca; Stormholm is bound to it. The trees know the footsteps of its people, the paths shift for those the forest favors, and the shadows themselves seem to guard the secrets of the House.

Vala Rauca holds many mysteries, most of which are known only to the true members of Stormholm. Hidden groves, ancient paths, forgotten ruins, sacred waters, and places of power lie concealed beneath its canopy. Outsiders may wander its borders and see only trees, mist, and wilderness, but the members of Stormholm know there is far more beneath the leaves. The forest remembers. The forest watches. The forest chooses what is revealed and what remains hidden.

Beyond the back of Stormholm rises a vast mountain range, towering like the spine of the land itself. These mountains provide a natural wall of protection and stand as a symbol of endurance, strength, and resilience. From their frozen peaks flows fresh mountain water, cold and clear, running down through stone, root, and hidden springs before reaching the heart of Stormholm. Some say the water tastes of magic itself, carrying the blessing of the mountains and the ancient power of Vala Rauca to all who drink from it.

Together, the forest and mountains make Stormholm more than a place of shelter. They make it a land of secrets, strength, and living magic.

The Realm of Legend

 

Positioning in the Realm

Lands Within Stormholm

 

The lands of Stormholm, in their entirety, are entrusted to the care and stewardship of the Nobles of Stormholm. These honored few rose to nobility while standing as sworn members of the house, proving through loyalty, service, and strength that they are worthy to guard Stormholm’s people, forests, secrets, and legacy.

Bliss Falls

Entrusted to Archduchess Castracia
In the western lands of Stormholm, Bliss Falls is named for the pure spring waters that flow down from the mountain. Those who drink from its waters are said to be reminded of the brightest and most cherished moments of their lives.

Crebain Ost

Entrusted to Lord Fenderatto
Set in the southeast, Crebain Ost serves as one of Stormholm’s vital lines of communication. Through its messengers, the house is able to send word swiftly across its lands.

Okami No Hinansho

Entrusted to Baron Hiroshi
To the east lies Okami No Hinansho, a safe haven for traders, allies, and the trade districts of the realm. It also allows for swift and secure trade within the lands of Stormholm itself.

Sable Sanctum

Entrusted to Baron Kizen
Hidden somewhere within Vala Rauca, the Sable Sanctum is a vast magical library whose location remains unknown to most of the realm. Within its walls rests a wealth of knowledge unmatched throughout the lands.

Sekkotai Kunren

Entrusted to Lady Kimi
In the northwest, Sekkotai Kunren is home to the guides and rangers of Stormholm. It is here that Vala Rauca reveals to the Lead Ranger where the house should expand, though how this wisdom is given remains one of Stormholm’s closely guarded secrets.

Star Haven

Entrusted to Sir Sinskar
To the south lies Star Haven, named for the breathtaking sky above it. Between the mountains and forests, the stars shine so brightly that one could lose hours simply standing beneath their light.

Vala Rauca

Entrusted to all members of Stormholm
Vala Rauca is the name given to the great forests of Stormholm. As the house discovers and claims new lands, the forests continue to grow, protecting and providing for those who honor them.

Vandor Gisir

Entrusted to Lord Maui Kai’ele Zukonian
In the northeast stands Vandor Gisir, whose name means “The Forest Guardian.” It is so named for the devoted warriors who dwell there, guarding Vala Rauca and standing ready as Stormholm’s first shield.

Veil Vuur

Entrusted to Lady Alduin
In the southwest, Veil Vuur burns with the magical energies of lava and fire drawn from the heart of the mountain. These forces strengthen and enhance the magic of all who wield power within Stormholm’s lands.

Waya X

Entrusted to Lord Zuse X
At the central eastern edge of Stormholm lies Waya X, a mysterious gateway to and from other realms. Though it remains inactive, it is heavily guarded and stands as one of Stormholm’s most important and dangerous locations.

Zar’Aaste

Entrusted to Lord Z Zukonian
Zar’Aaste is known as the sanctuary of the discarded. Hidden beneath the forests of Stormholm, it offers refuge to those cast aside, forgotten, or hunted by the world above.

Argent Grove

Entrusted to Lady Aelynn Thandivar
Argent Grove is a silver-lit college and orchard sanctuary within Vala Rauca, founded by Lady Aelynn Thandivar to help seekers discover their true path through combat, magic, craft, service, and learning.

Frostvein Hold

Entrusted to Lord Winter Faebane Zukonian
Frostvein Hold lies sealed in ice and stone, a hidden northern stronghold kept secret by Vala Rauca. Its location is known only to those the forest itself has chosen to trust.

Oloth Ser

Entrusted to Lady Raelle Zukonian
In the northeast, beneath the castle of Vandor Gisir is Oloth Ser. This is the place that the elite warriors leave Vandor Gisir to train to become one of the feared Shadow Warriors, the rogues of Stormholm.