Tales of Faerun

The region called the Bloodstone Lands or the Cold Lands consists of the territories adjacent to or near the Great Glacier, namely Damara, Narfell, Sosal, and Vaasa. Their inhospitable climates are largely due to the glacier’s influence. This collection of nations is erroneously called the Bloodstone Lands by many, but that title actually refers only to Damara and Vaasa. Sparsely inhabited but rich in mineral wealth. these lands draw foreigners looking to strike it rich quickly. Most, however, quickly become daunted by the hostile environment and aggressive tribesfolk.  

Overview of the Bloodstone Lands

The phrase "Bloodstone Lands" refers to the region between the Great Glacier and Impiltur, particularly the two states of Vaasa and Damara. The whole area encompasses roughly 150,000 square miles in a roughly triangular shape, using the southern line of the Great Glacier as its northernmost boundary.   To the west, beyond the Earthspur Mountains, is the wicked land of Thar, the Moonsea, and the independent city-state of Mulmaster. To the south is Impiltur and beyond that, the Sea of Fallen Stars. To the east looms Narfell and the Great Dale.   One might assume that the nickname of this rugged region comes from the quantity of blood spilled in the area, especially in and around the Galena Mountains. There have been numerous battles with goblinkin and giantkind.   The sturdy inhabitants have also faced the relentless forces of the climate, and even fought among themselves over the years. In truth, this would make "bloodstone" an apt label.   However, the phrase refers to the uncountable mineral wealth found in the area, a deep-green chalcedony flecked with red jasper. Bloodstones were once mined throughout the Galenas and the Earthspurs, luring men here in droves. Bloodstones established Damara as a major power in the Forgotten Realms.