05-04-2013, 01:24 PM
In the Wilderlands, The Great Glacier is the region north of the map, just north of Valon. Very few official sources have much detail on this region, but various unofficial sources have attempted to describe it in more detail. First of all Rob S Conley's "Lands West of Blackmoor" covers this very region. A different presentation is given in my own Vales of Blackmoor Campaign.
In any case, the Great Glacier region is interesting because it encompasses the area that separates/connects the Wilderlands from Blackmoor. Since I am interested in examining the possible connection points between the two settings, this region holds great interest to me.
I read somewhere some criticism of Conley's interpretation that it made the actual Glacier too small. In my version, I paid some respect to Conley's map, but made significant changes since I wanted to make room for the Vales themselves. I also made the Glacier bigger, though I am sure some would feel that even in my take it isn't large enough.
Regardless of its actual size and shape, I think the Glacier is interesting. I see it as a remnant from an Ice Age from about 6000 years before King Uther's age. The Glacier is effectively a barrier preventing contact between Blackmoor and the northern parts of the Wilderlands Region. Avalonian Ice Mages have no doubt been able to make it across the Glacier, but on the other end they would have found the Plains of Hak and more wilderness to traverse should they be able to find a way to Blackmoor. Not impossible, but also not something that would occur too often.
What sort of dangers can be found on and around the Glacier itself. Is it connected with the very source for the Avalonian Magic? Are treasures or other secrets hidden within the ice?
Taking a look towards Blackmoor lore, the Goddess Sachwynne is associated with Ice. Is the glacier considered holy by her followers?
Thoughts and ideas?
-Havard
In any case, the Great Glacier region is interesting because it encompasses the area that separates/connects the Wilderlands from Blackmoor. Since I am interested in examining the possible connection points between the two settings, this region holds great interest to me.
I read somewhere some criticism of Conley's interpretation that it made the actual Glacier too small. In my version, I paid some respect to Conley's map, but made significant changes since I wanted to make room for the Vales themselves. I also made the Glacier bigger, though I am sure some would feel that even in my take it isn't large enough.
Regardless of its actual size and shape, I think the Glacier is interesting. I see it as a remnant from an Ice Age from about 6000 years before King Uther's age. The Glacier is effectively a barrier preventing contact between Blackmoor and the northern parts of the Wilderlands Region. Avalonian Ice Mages have no doubt been able to make it across the Glacier, but on the other end they would have found the Plains of Hak and more wilderness to traverse should they be able to find a way to Blackmoor. Not impossible, but also not something that would occur too often.
What sort of dangers can be found on and around the Glacier itself. Is it connected with the very source for the Avalonian Magic? Are treasures or other secrets hidden within the ice?
Taking a look towards Blackmoor lore, the Goddess Sachwynne is associated with Ice. Is the glacier considered holy by her followers?
Thoughts and ideas?
-Havard
Currently Running: The Blackmoor Vales Saga
Currently Playing: Daniel S. Debelfry in the Throne of Star's Campaign
Currently Playing: Daniel S. Debelfry in the Throne of Star's Campaign