The Barrowlands of Cormyr
The Barrowlands are situated in the northern part of Cormyr, near the border with the Stonelands, a rugged and lawless region to the north. They lie west of the Wyvernfell Mountains and are part of the broader landscape of Cormyr, which is characterized by lush forests, rolling hills, and fertile plains. The Barrowlands themselves are a series of low hills or mounds, many of which are ancient burial sites or barrows, giving the area its name. These barrows are often overgrown with grass or shrouded in mist, contributing to an eerie, otherworldly atmosphere.
The terrain is relatively open but dotted with these burial mounds, some of which are marked by weathered standing stones or crumbling ruins. The proximity to the Stonelands means the Barrowlands are occasionally threatened by incursions from goblinoids, bandits, or other hostile forces, though Cormyr’s Purple Dragons (the kingdom’s military) patrol the area to maintain order. The climate is temperate, typical of Cormyr, with mild summers and cold winters, but the Barrowlands can feel unnaturally chilly or foggy due to their supernatural associations.
The Barrowlands are ancient, predating the founding of Cormyr itself (established circa 26 DR, or Dalereckoning). The barrows are believed to be the burial sites of long-forgotten kings, warriors, or sorcerers from prehistoric human or elven civilizations, possibly tied to the early human tribes of the region or the elven empires like Shantel Othreier or Aryvandaar, which clashed in the area millennia ago during the Battle of the Gods’ Theatre (circa 10,750 BDR). Some lore suggests these mounds house the remains of Netherese or Imaskari exiles, adding to their mystique.
The barrows are often imbued with powerful magic, either protective wards to guard the tombs or curses to deter grave robbers. Local legends speak of restless spirits, undead guardians, or magical treasures hidden within the mounds, making the Barrowlands a place of both fear and allure for adventurers. The people of Cormyr, particularly those in nearby settlements like Eveningstar or Arabel, view the Barrowlands with a mix of reverence and caution, often avoiding them unless necessary.