Haryk's Valley

Somewhere in the Southern France, within the Massif Central mountain range (exact location undisclosed for security reasons), lies a valley that houses the headquarters of the Council of Elders. The Valley is also home to several small communities and a portal to the Veil. The area was founded long before France was a country. The area was secured by the High-Born elf Haryk through the Treaty of Haryk. It's purpose was to protect the portal to the Veil and provide shelter for various magic-users. The Valley was magically warded to prevent non-magic users from finding it.
Currently, the Valley is surrounded by national parks that provide natural habitats for magic creatures. There are several reserves for protected magic creatures in the surrounding area.

Geography

The valley is located between two mountains. It features smaller lakes and a stream from the major river in the area. The area is rural and relatively uninhabited by people. The valley itself is fairly remote and difficult to get to so tourists and locals avoid it.

Localized Phenomena

Portal to the Veil: this is one of the most prominent and stable portals that allow for travel across the Veil into the Veiled Realms. The creation of the Treaty ensures that the portal will remain active and tended to for years to come.
Ley Lines: A ley line runs near the valley allowing for many magic-users to access the Wild Ways and tap into a deeper source of magic.

Natural Resources

Crystals: the presence of the ley lines and portal to the Veil create strong magic crystals that can be used to enhance magic powers, strengthen magic barriers and gift non-magic users with magic. The mining of these crystals is strictly regulated by Council of Elders.

History

The area was secured through the Treaty of Haryk in 600 AD to protect the Portal to the Veil and give shelter to various magic communities escaping war and persecution. It was long created before France was a country and has gone by several names over the centuries. The current name, Haryk's Valley and it's French equivalent, were standardized in the 16th century.