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Description

You do NOT have permission to repost or reuse this map in any way.
This map is for the use of ASH and it's members.
Thank you.

Map created by PaperElk .

Stelune Territory: Lightspeak Valley

The valley that Stelunites call home is believed to have been created during the Great Schism, where the Oblivion delivered the fatal blow to the Light. According to Stelunite lore, the only mountain that remains from the old range that used to occupy this valley is Lightspeak Summit, believed to be the tallest mountain in the world. In the generations upon generations since the Schism, to the wolves of Stelune today, the valley has become a lush, if not temperate valley ripe with resources. It is surrounded on all sides by fearsome mountain ranges, which means the only points of entry to Lightspeak Valley are on the north and western edges of the territory. Stelunites have lived peacefully here for generations without being disturbed; but now, with the declaration from Scion Genevieve, is about to be open to newcomers for the first time in a long, long while. [Inspirations: Sequoia/King’s Canyon National Park, Yosemite National Park]

Common Prey Animals: Quail, gophers, marmots, pika, jackrabbits, gray squirrels, trout, mule deer.

Common Predators: Black bears, gray foxes, bobcats, mountain lions.

Potential/Common Familiar Animals: Frogs & toads, bats, songbirds & woodpeckers, birds of prey.

For an exhaustive list of potential species that can be found within Lightspeak Valley, please see this incredible resource created by the National Parks Service.

The Entry Points

Alabaster Pass: The northernmost entry point into Lightspeak Valley, this pass is a rocky expanse and can be treacherous to navigate if one isn’t familiar with it. The area is riddled with hot springs and ponds of mountain runoff. Inexperienced travelers may go to take a sip from an assumed water source and come away with their tongues and mouths burned. If sentries are posted, due to the pass being largely barren, it is virtually impossible to abscond into the valley (or out of it) without being spotted. [Photo Inspiration; Bishop’s Pass in King’s Canyon National Park]

Shadycreek Pass: The western entrypoint into Lightspeak Valley - it is no easy climb into the valley for newcomers, by any means, but it is even more difficult for Stelunites to keep a comprehensive eye on the comings and goings here because of the heavy tree cover and creeks that wind through the area. But it also makes for a decent hunting ground, and is one of the few entry points for new prey to safely find a way in. As such, this pass is guarded and patrolled heavily. [Photo Inspiration; Bohna Peak/Bohna Ridge Trail , Sequoia National Park]

Major Landmarks

Lightspeak Summit: Believed to be the tallest mountain in the world, Lightspeak Summit is the mountain that sits at the center of this valley and is the most prominent landmark. It can be seen from every corner of the valley, and looms over everything. Within Lightspeak Summit is also a series of trails and tunnels and caves where the Vanguard reside. It is at the summit of this mountain where the first generation of Stelunites unleashed Light into the night sky, and where a rift formed between the material plane and others. Stelunites guard this mountain jealously, and it is the point of pride for the entire pack. [Photo Inspiration; Mount Whitney , California]
Vanguard’s Rest [MAIN DEN]: At the base of Lightspeak Summit, there is a mouth to a gigantic cavern within - safe from the elements, it is always cooler here in summer, and warmer in the winter, with rain runoff that also provides a constant source of freshwater for the wolves who call Vanguard’s Rest their home. There is more than enough space for all Stelunites to have their own den or area. Near the back of the main den are a number of tunnel entryways; these lead to further within the mountain and up to the Vanguards’ respective home. There are always Eldritch Knights posted nearby, as entry to deeper within the mountain is restricted and not allowed. [Photo Inspiration; Son Doong Cave (NOTE: This is for inspiration only, as none of the flora or fauna present in this cave are native to North America.)]

Emerald Loop River: Surrounding the Summit is the infamous Emerald Loop River; it creates a perfect ring around the mountain, and as such, serves as an excellent marker for where other predators and outsiders are not permitted to cross. During most seasons, it’s a bubbling, easygoing river that, while it often has to be waded through or swum across, poses little to no danger to even inexperienced swimmers. During spring, however, when the runoff from the mountains cascades into the valley and rainstorms are frequent, this normally peaceful river grows turbulent and dangerous. [Photo Inspiration; King’s River , California]

The Wildwoods: The majority of the territory is covered in a largely coniferous forest known to the Stelunite as the Wildwoods. Along the mountains, waterfalls are a common sight, and deeper within the woods, rocks and ravines are far from rare. For those more skilled or accustomed with hunting small game, the Wildwoods are a perfect hunting ground. But be wary, as many of the other predators that live within Lightspeak Valley also call the Wildwoods their home. [Photo Inspiration; Yosemite Forest/Valley , Yosemite National Park, California]

Traitor’s Rise: In the northernmost section of Lightspeak Valley is a largely rocky expanse. Here lies Traitor’s Rise, a landmark so named several generations ago when the Scion was murdered at the base of this mountain. It used to be a place of gathering for the pack with visiting dignitaries, but now is largely left alone and avoided by Stelunites. Scion Genevieve, however, has encouraged Stelunites to tread here once again, and to utilize it as a training ground and a site for history lessons. [Photo Inspiration; Half Dome , Yosemite National Park]

The Mythwood: Besides Lightspeak Summit, the Mythwood is the next most sacred area of Lightspeak Valley. So much so, that any other predators or wolves who have not yet made their Pilgrimage are not permitted within, much like near Lightspeak Summit. It is here that all Stelunite are buried, and the majestic sequoia trees that grow here are all believed to have been planted by Stelunites of generations past. Each and every tree is meant to represent a Stelune wolf who lives now, or has lived before. The forest grows a little larger with each generation. [Photo Inspiration; Sequoia National Forest/Park , California]
Scion’s Grove: Deep within the Mythwood is a close cluster of sequoias, planted in close succession near each other. This is known as the Scion’s Grove, where every member of the Scionic bloodline both plants their seedling, and are buried after their soul passes beyond the material plane. This is the only place within the Mythwood where one Constellation or one particular bloodline don’t intermingle within the forest. [Photo Inspiration; Merced Grove , Yosemite National Park]

The Verdant Thicket [NEWCOMER & WHELPING DEN, WINTER DENSITE]: Tucked near a creek and along some of the southwestern mountains of the valley is a massive thicket that enjoys some moderate protection during the winter and a great deal of sunlight during the summer. It is here that Stelunite pups are born and raised, and where newcomers are made to stay whilst in training for their Pilgrimage. Freshwater and flora are in abundance here, though due to the almost constant presence of the pack, hunting typically must be done elsewhere. Stelunite cubs are encouraged to play and explore the surrounding area, as much of Lightspeak Valley features the same kind of topography and climate as the Thicket. [Photo Inspiration; Rae Lakes Loop Trail , King’s Canyon National Park]

Gilded Lake: The largest body of water in the territory, Gilded Lake is an alpine lake that is largely surrounded by foothills and small coniferous trees. But its shores are an ample playground for the friskier and more adventurous of the Stelunites, as rocks jut out over the water and each other to make for some fun potential obstacle courses. Hunting is discouraged in the area by Beastmasters primarily to encourage prey to have a safe place to drink and graze. In the summer, it is a popular spot to get away from Vanguard’s Rest and enjoy oneself, which is also why it makes for the perfect location to celebrate Midsummer. [Photo Inspiration; Pear Lake , Sequoia National Park]

Starlit Meadow: At the southernmost edge of the valley is one of the most popular recreational spots in the territory. Starlit Meadow is a vast open plain abundant with wildflowers and prey. Not only is it a perfect hunting ground for larger prey animals, as herds of mule deer often congregate here, at night it becomes the most brilliant place to teach new and young Stelunites about the constellations and for lovers to stargaze should they feel so inclined. [Photo Inspiration; Cloud Canyon , King’s Canyon National Park]

Description

You do NOT have permission to repost or reuse this map in any way.
This map is for the use of ASH and it's members.
Thank you.

Map created by PaperElk .

Stelune Territory: Lightspeak Valley

The valley that Stelunites call home is believed to have been created during the Great Schism, where the Oblivion delivered the fatal blow to the Light. According to Stelunite lore, the only mountain that remains from the old range that used to occupy this valley is Lightspeak Summit, believed to be the tallest mountain in the world. In the generations upon generations since the Schism, to the wolves of Stelune today, the valley has become a lush, if not temperate valley ripe with resources. It is surrounded on all sides by fearsome mountain ranges, which means the only points of entry to Lightspeak Valley are on the north and western edges of the territory. Stelunites have lived peacefully here for generations without being disturbed; but now, with the declaration from Scion Genevieve, is about to be open to newcomers for the first time in a long, long while. [Inspirations: Sequoia/King’s Canyon National Park, Yosemite National Park]

Common Prey Animals: Quail, gophers, marmots, pika, jackrabbits, gray squirrels, trout, mule deer.

Common Predators: Black bears, gray foxes, bobcats, mountain lions.

Potential/Common Familiar Animals: Frogs & toads, bats, songbirds & woodpeckers, birds of prey.

For an exhaustive list of potential species that can be found within Lightspeak Valley, please see this incredible resource created by the National Parks Service.

The Entry Points

Alabaster Pass: The northernmost entry point into Lightspeak Valley, this pass is a rocky expanse and can be treacherous to navigate if one isn’t familiar with it. The area is riddled with hot springs and ponds of mountain runoff. Inexperienced travelers may go to take a sip from an assumed water source and come away with their tongues and mouths burned. If sentries are posted, due to the pass being largely barren, it is virtually impossible to abscond into the valley (or out of it) without being spotted. [Photo Inspiration; Bishop’s Pass in King’s Canyon National Park]

Shadycreek Pass: The western entrypoint into Lightspeak Valley - it is no easy climb into the valley for newcomers, by any means, but it is even more difficult for Stelunites to keep a comprehensive eye on the comings and goings here because of the heavy tree cover and creeks that wind through the area. But it also makes for a decent hunting ground, and is one of the few entry points for new prey to safely find a way in. As such, this pass is guarded and patrolled heavily. [Photo Inspiration; Bohna Peak/Bohna Ridge Trail , Sequoia National Park]

Major Landmarks

Lightspeak Summit: Believed to be the tallest mountain in the world, Lightspeak Summit is the mountain that sits at the center of this valley and is the most prominent landmark. It can be seen from every corner of the valley, and looms over everything. Within Lightspeak Summit is also a series of trails and tunnels and caves where the Vanguard reside. It is at the summit of this mountain where the first generation of Stelunites unleashed Light into the night sky, and where a rift formed between the material plane and others. Stelunites guard this mountain jealously, and it is the point of pride for the entire pack. [Photo Inspiration; Mount Whitney , California]
Vanguard’s Rest [MAIN DEN]: At the base of Lightspeak Summit, there is a mouth to a gigantic cavern within - safe from the elements, it is always cooler here in summer, and warmer in the winter, with rain runoff that also provides a constant source of freshwater for the wolves who call Vanguard’s Rest their home. There is more than enough space for all Stelunites to have their own den or area. Near the back of the main den are a number of tunnel entryways; these lead to further within the mountain and up to the Vanguards’ respective home. There are always Eldritch Knights posted nearby, as entry to deeper within the mountain is restricted and not allowed. [Photo Inspiration; Son Doong Cave (NOTE: This is for inspiration only, as none of the flora or fauna present in this cave are native to North America.)]

Emerald Loop River: Surrounding the Summit is the infamous Emerald Loop River; it creates a perfect ring around the mountain, and as such, serves as an excellent marker for where other predators and outsiders are not permitted to cross. During most seasons, it’s a bubbling, easygoing river that, while it often has to be waded through or swum across, poses little to no danger to even inexperienced swimmers. During spring, however, when the runoff from the mountains cascades into the valley and rainstorms are frequent, this normally peaceful river grows turbulent and dangerous. [Photo Inspiration; King’s River , California]

The Wildwoods: The majority of the territory is covered in a largely coniferous forest known to the Stelunite as the Wildwoods. Along the mountains, waterfalls are a common sight, and deeper within the woods, rocks and ravines are far from rare. For those more skilled or accustomed with hunting small game, the Wildwoods are a perfect hunting ground. But be wary, as many of the other predators that live within Lightspeak Valley also call the Wildwoods their home. [Photo Inspiration; Yosemite Forest/Valley , Yosemite National Park, California]

Traitor’s Rise: In the northernmost section of Lightspeak Valley is a largely rocky expanse. Here lies Traitor’s Rise, a landmark so named several generations ago when the Scion was murdered at the base of this mountain. It used to be a place of gathering for the pack with visiting dignitaries, but now is largely left alone and avoided by Stelunites. Scion Genevieve, however, has encouraged Stelunites to tread here once again, and to utilize it as a training ground and a site for history lessons. [Photo Inspiration; Half Dome , Yosemite National Park]

The Mythwood: Besides Lightspeak Summit, the Mythwood is the next most sacred area of Lightspeak Valley. So much so, that any other predators or wolves who have not yet made their Pilgrimage are not permitted within, much like near Lightspeak Summit. It is here that all Stelunite are buried, and the majestic sequoia trees that grow here are all believed to have been planted by Stelunites of generations past. Each and every tree is meant to represent a Stelune wolf who lives now, or has lived before. The forest grows a little larger with each generation. [Photo Inspiration; Sequoia National Forest/Park , California]
Scion’s Grove: Deep within the Mythwood is a close cluster of sequoias, planted in close succession near each other. This is known as the Scion’s Grove, where every member of the Scionic bloodline both plants their seedling, and are buried after their soul passes beyond the material plane. This is the only place within the Mythwood where one Constellation or one particular bloodline don’t intermingle within the forest. [Photo Inspiration; Merced Grove , Yosemite National Park]

The Verdant Thicket [NEWCOMER & WHELPING DEN, WINTER DENSITE]: Tucked near a creek and along some of the southwestern mountains of the valley is a massive thicket that enjoys some moderate protection during the winter and a great deal of sunlight during the summer. It is here that Stelunite pups are born and raised, and where newcomers are made to stay whilst in training for their Pilgrimage. Freshwater and flora are in abundance here, though due to the almost constant presence of the pack, hunting typically must be done elsewhere. Stelunite cubs are encouraged to play and explore the surrounding area, as much of Lightspeak Valley features the same kind of topography and climate as the Thicket. [Photo Inspiration; Rae Lakes Loop Trail , King’s Canyon National Park]

Gilded Lake: The largest body of water in the territory, Gilded Lake is an alpine lake that is largely surrounded by foothills and small coniferous trees. But its shores are an ample playground for the friskier and more adventurous of the Stelunites, as rocks jut out over the water and each other to make for some fun potential obstacle courses. Hunting is discouraged in the area by Beastmasters primarily to encourage prey to have a safe place to drink and graze. In the summer, it is a popular spot to get away from Vanguard’s Rest and enjoy oneself, which is also why it makes for the perfect location to celebrate Midsummer. [Photo Inspiration; Pear Lake , Sequoia National Park]

Starlit Meadow: At the southernmost edge of the valley is one of the most popular recreational spots in the territory. Starlit Meadow is a vast open plain abundant with wildflowers and prey. Not only is it a perfect hunting ground for larger prey animals, as herds of mule deer often congregate here, at night it becomes the most brilliant place to teach new and young Stelunites about the constellations and for lovers to stargaze should they feel so inclined. [Photo Inspiration; Cloud Canyon , King’s Canyon National Park]