Ancient Runes

Used by the original inhabitants of the valley, Ancient Runes were powerful magic crafted by Rune Masters. They required specific physical materials to contain the magic for a long while, sometimes as drawings but more often as engraved fillings. The more runes, the more powerful their combination. But a single character would still be used by families as a simple form of blessing.
We do not know much about ancient runes themselves, despite the hard work of the Ravenmight Institute. No detailed works have been found, suggesting that inhabitants removed or destroyed these before departing. This in itself indicates exactly how important the runes were, as they did not want enemies to find out how they worked.
Through references, as well as stories from people descending of inhabitants of the valley, we do know these runes were treated with great respect. To the inhabitants, these runes represented protection and a blessing of the rune masters. Where possible, they would gladly pay the costs involved in the precious materials. This included entire communities gathering the funds to pay for Runic Padding.

Cost

Approximately 10 GP minimum, per character

Materials

• Runic Crystal
• Jade
• Silver
Rest unknown

Duration

Indefinite / decay of underlying object

Usage

Ancient runes have been found in various locations. First of all, in the underpadding of armours used by Protectors of the Valley. This use involved high upkeep costs, as while the underpadding could be worn even when asleep, it would deteriorate and require replacements.
There are indicators that some weapons also had runes engraved in them, which like modern runes would impart special abilities of an unknown nature. Unlike modern runes, these were not transferable, as the material held the magic and both would break if attempted.

Next to equipment, locations often also used runes. The most famous example at this point are cemetaries. Anywhere where whole bodies were buried, from the capital's cemetary to the Royal Crypt, ancient runes safeguard the dead. Most likely this involves a protection mechanism against necromantic influences.
Smaller usage was at villages, such as blessing a well. It seems this helps keep the water clean. But there are also small camps with protective circles, seemingly to ward against outside interference.