The Lightning Plains

The Lightning Plains is a realm in Elysium, the celestial plane of divine beings and eternal paradise. It is a place of constant thunderstorms and lightning strikes, where the air crackles with energy and the ground is always wet from the rain.
According to legend, The Lightning Plains were created by Archangel Sariel herself as a gift to the mortal warrior who proved themselves worthy of wielding the Swiftstrike Blade. As the warrior drove the blade into the ground, lightning struck and opened a portal to this new realm.
The Lightning Plains are home to a variety of divine creatures, from nimble storm elementals to majestic winged horses that ride the thunderstorms. It is also said that the realm is guarded by the Lightning Guardians, fierce warriors who have pledged their allegiance to Archangel Sariel and keep watch over the plains to ensure the safety of all who dwell there.
The realm is known for its natural beauty, with rolling hills and vast fields of wildflowers that sparkle with the light of lightning strikes. It is said that the flowers here have a magical quality that imbues those who smell their fragrance with the swiftness and agility of Archangel Sariel herself.
Many pilgrims and adventurers seek out The Lightning Plains in search of adventure, enlightenment, or simply the thrill of experiencing the power of lightning and the divine presence of Archangel Sariel.

Geography

The Lightning Plains is a realm located in the celestial plane of Elysium. As the name suggests, it is an expansive plain that stretches for miles, with the only noticeable feature being the occasional towering spires of lightning that jut from the ground. The ground itself is covered in a fine layer of ash, and the sky is perpetually shrouded in a veil of storm clouds, crackling with lightning and thunder.
Despite its apparent lack of landmarks, the Lightning Plains is deceptively easy to navigate, thanks to the influence of Archangel Sariel, who uses her mastery over speed and agility to guide travelers through the realm with ease. It is said that those who journey through the Lightning Plains with pure intentions will be gifted with glimpses of the divine, while those with more nefarious goals will be met with harsh obstacles and dangerous lightning strikes.

Ecosystem

The Lightning Plains are a unique ecosystem, with a diverse range of flora and fauna that have adapted to the constant presence of lightning storms. The soil is rich in minerals that are highly conductive, which makes the plants that grow here highly resilient to electrical charges. The plants also have specialized structures that allow them to store and discharge electrical energy, which they use both for defense against predators and for attracting pollinators.
The fauna of the Lightning Plains are equally fascinating, with many species evolving to take advantage of the electrical energy that permeates the environment. Some animals have developed insulating fur or feathers to protect them from lightning strikes, while others have evolved specialized organs that allow them to sense and harness electrical energy.
The most iconic species of the Lightning Plains is the Thunderbird, a giant bird with wings that generate powerful electrical charges. These charges allow the Thunderbird to fly at incredible speeds and to generate powerful shockwaves that can stun or even kill prey. Despite their fearsome reputation, Thunderbirds are also revered by the inhabitants of the Lightning Plains as symbols of the power and majesty of nature.

Localized Phenomena

The Lightning Plains is known for its unique weather patterns, with frequent lightning storms that light up the sky in brilliant flashes of blue and purple. These storms are often accompanied by powerful gusts of wind, which can make travel across the plains treacherous for the unprepared.
In addition to the lightning storms, the plains are also home to a variety of magical phenomena. It is said that pockets of wild magic are scattered throughout the region, which can cause unpredictable and sometimes dangerous effects. Wise travelers are cautious to avoid these areas, lest they be caught in a surge of uncontrolled magical energy.
One of the most notable magical phenomena in the Lightning Plains is the so-called "Thundering Maelstrom," a swirling vortex of magical energy that periodically appears in the center of the plains. The Maelstrom is said to be a gateway to another plane of existence, and many adventurers have journeyed into the vortex in search of treasure or knowledge. However, few who enter the Maelstrom ever return, and those who do often emerge changed in unexpected ways.

Climate

The climate of the Lightning Plains is temperate, with mild temperatures year-round. The region experiences frequent thunderstorms and lightning strikes, which have given it its name. The storms are often accompanied by high winds, which can make travel difficult for those not accustomed to them. However, the frequent rain and lightning strikes have made the region rich in fertile soil, which has allowed for the growth of a diverse range of flora and fauna. The storms are also believed to be a manifestation of the power of Archangel Sariel, and are seen as a blessing by many of the inhabitants of the Lightning Plains.

Fauna & Flora

The Lightning Plains is a land of rolling grasslands and thunderous storms, teeming with diverse flora and fauna that thrive in the electrifying environment.
Flora: The grassy plains are dotted with tall, resilient grasses that can withstand the frequent lightning strikes. Wildflowers of every color bloom in abundance during the brief periods of calm between storms. Trees are scarce on the plains, but there are a few species of hardy trees and shrubs that can survive the harsh conditions. These trees have deep roots and tough bark that protect them from the intense electrical energy in the soil.
Fauna: The Lightning Plains are home to many creatures that have adapted to the electrical environment. One of the most iconic inhabitants of the plains is the Thunderbird, a massive bird of prey with a wingspan that can reach up to thirty feet. The Thunderbird is a fierce predator that hunts on the plains, using its sharp talons and beak to take down prey. Despite its intimidating size, the Thunderbird is a graceful flier, able to ride the powerful electrical currents in the air.
Other notable creatures that can be found on the plains include:
Electric Serpents: These serpents have scales that can conduct electricity, allowing them to move quickly and silently through the grass. Storm Hounds: These large, muscular dogs have fur that crackles with energy, and they are often used as hunting companions by Thunderbird riders. Spark Mice: These tiny rodents are covered in fine fur that glows with a soft blue light, and they scurry through the grass, feeding on the electrical energy in the soil. The Lightning Plains are a vibrant ecosystem, full of life that thrives in the midst of the storms.

Natural Resources

As a realm in Elysium, The Lightning Plains is not known for its natural resources. However, the thunderbird feathers and lightning-struck wood found within the realm are highly valued by some magical artisans for their unique properties. The feathers are said to imbue any spell or enchantment with the power of lightning, while the wood is said to be nearly indestructible and can channel lightning magic. Due to the rarity and difficulty in obtaining these resources, they are often very expensive and sought after by those who can afford them.

Type

Plane of Existence

Location under

Elysium

Owner/Ruler

Sariel the Swift