Goldenrod Valley

Located behind the barrier of magic fog and mist, Mount Arcane can be seen rising into the sky.

While it is impossible to go anywhere near the mountain as of right now due to the magic fog, explorers have been trying to find a way around it in order to summit it's peak.

From what has been observed, the mountain has a harsh, tempermental climate, with storms nearly always swirling on it's face.

Located on the edge of the valley lies an area simply referred to as The Falls.

Pristine fresh water surges down the cliffs, originating from a cave, before rushing down into a river that flows through the valley and into the Sea of Clouds.

The cave where the falls originate has been explored decently, and on nights with a full moon, the water glows with an ethereal quality.

Along the riverside and bordered by a forest lies a natural cave system with pools of spring water. This area is referred to as The Grotto.

The caves have yet to be fully explored as they flood when it rains, making them slightly dangerous for those who are inexperienced.

The area seems to have been a temple or shrine of some kind, judging by the statues and ruins. Swimming in the waters is allowed so long as you are respectful to the environment.

A cliffy outcropping where one can view the whole valley, the overlook can only be submitted by completing a two hour long hike.

It is a popular picnicking spot, with gorgeous views and really puts the sheer scope of the valley into perspective. Many people enjoy hiking up here to watch the sun come up over Raygar's Reach.

The Overlook is surrounded by steep and sheer cliff drops into the forest below, caution is recommended if you are near its edge.

A meadow covered in goldenrod, the flower that gave the valley it's name, Golden Meadow is a serene location.

Filled with wild oats and other types of golden plants, it seems to shimmer with every breeze.

Bees, butterflies, and other sorts of wildlife are fairly common here, leading some to believe the meadow attracts these creatures for some unknown purpose.

Crumbling ruins of stone, and green overgrowth make up the location known as the Abandoned Ruins. It takes up a rather large area, bordering just to the south of Golden Meadow.

Historians and researches are studying the ruins in depth, trying to understand what took place here so long ago.

While some sections of the ruins are unable to be explored, the common man is able to wander here relatively freely.

The main hiking trail of the valley that leads up to The Overlook. This can be harsh hike, and not recommended for beginners as you have to scale small rock formations towards the submit.

It is a popular camping ground, with multiple rest areas along the way. The main trail splits off into other hiking areas, but it is recommended for one not to wander unless familiar with the area.

The trail is open all year, but hiking in the icy winters is discouraged.

Overshadowing the south half of the valley lies the tallest mountain in all the known world, the famous Golden Peak.

Explorers have been trying to submit the mountain since colonization of Goldenrod Valley began, but there appears to be a second impenetrable ring of magic fog blocking the way.

Nevertheless, there are several hiking trails on the lower areas of Golden Peak that are safe to for the common man to explore.

Bordering Town Center, the heavily forested area know as Whisper Woods is an enchanting and beautiful sight. With lush greenery and many species of wild life, both common and arcane, it's no wonder the area is suspected of being deeply entwined with magic to it's roots.

There are multiple small streams, alcoves, and springs that populate the woods, as well as plenty of wild plants and mushrooms.

At night, locals swear they hear trees whispering, must be the wind.

The heart of Goldenrod Valley, the area known as Town Center is a bustling village with tons of flowers and greenery. Attempting to get rid of the flowers and plants will only cause them to grow back thicker.

While it's still a rugged township all things considered, the area is progressing. It has access to electricity and other arcane tech due to the incredible magic energy of the valley and abundant resources.

The area where supplies are unloaded and new colonists are dropped off, the Airship Docks are rather humble compared to the rest of the empire.

Most ships are your typical supply runners and mass expedition voyagers, the occasional diplomat or royal ship may stop by every once and awhile.

The area is usually pretty busy whenever a ship has docked.

Placed between the nearby river and Town Center, the Flower Fields are a lovely location for anyone wishing to laze the day away among nature.

Multiple species of flowers grow here during all times of the year, including winter, when snowdrops will peak out of the snow once spring is near.

Superstitious locals claim that fairies and other sprites frequent here.

To the north west of town lies the main beach of Goldenrod Valley. Know simply as The Beach, it's a popular spot for hang outs and other relaxation based activities.

While the Sea of Cloud's mystical fog is always on the horizon, The Beach itself tends to stay on the sunnier side, but overcast days have been known to occur.

It tends to have rather calm currents and waves.

On a rocky outcropping that extends from Town Center lies a lighthouse.

The lighthouse itself predates the orignal discovery of the valley. Locals took advantage of this to try and guide ships through the impossible to navigate Sea of Clouds, but ultimately the plan met failure.

The lighthouse itself is abandoned, occasionally a shadowy figure can be seen haunting the grounds as the beacon of light weakly flickers.

To the north of Town Center lies a large body of water known simply as Lake Tranquil. The area is a popular spot for those wishing to get back to nature and relax, or for those looking to swim.

The lake is crystal clear with a rocky bottom, during the mornings mist has been known to roll in from the surrounding Magic Fog.

There are multiple species of fish and birds that make the lake their home, locals will do well to treat it with respect.

One of the few places in Goldenrod where the sea is accessible, there have been plans to build a port here once the Sea of Clouds is deemed safely navigable.

Till then, it's a nice sandy outcropping, sheltered by the cliffs from any harsh storms and whirlpools.

Shore Side is the one area by the sea where the fog and clouds never seem to dim the sunlight.

While Shore Side's waters may be calm and peaceful, the same cannot be said for The Cove. The currents are rather strong here, constantly swirling with harsh undertows and violent whirlpools.

However, the shore is rather tame compared to the rest of the miniature bay. It plays host to multiple tidepools filled with wonderous sea creatures.

The waters are frigid here no matter the time of year.

Bordering the west end of the valley is the the Sea of Clouds. While the infamous magical fog that gave the sea it's name stays off shore, mists have been known to roll in during the early morning hours.

On the shores of Goldenrod Valley, the sea itself is rather normal. People can swim in it's waters, fish on the shore, and explore it's beaches and rocky outcroppings with no fear. Sailing into the offshore fog is heavily discouraged.

There have been multiple exploration trips to the Island of the Moon since the island's discovery. It is covered in ruins and statues from the past, leading to heavy research being done by historians.

It can be explored by the general public, but the ground appears to be rather sacred. Proceeding with caution and respect is heavily encouraged, who knows what ancient and powerful arcana still lurks in this area.