The Lortmil Mountains are a defining feature of the Upper East Side of the Sheldemar Valley, running majestically from the north down to the southern ocean. These mountains are grand and towering, often likened to mythical mountain ranges. The peaks of the Lortmil Mountains are perpetually capped with snow, offering a stunning, pristine landscape. In the lower regions, the mountains experience seasonal changes, with passes opening during the warmer months, allowing for travel and trade. The rugged terrain is home to various humanoid hordes, including orcs, goblins, kobolds, and hobgoblins, making the area dangerous for unprepared adventurers.
To the west lies the Crystalmist Mountains, a massive and imposing range that extends beyond the map’s borders. These mountains are akin to the legendary ranges, with towering peaks that remain snow-covered throughout the year. Glaciers and snow-covered volcanoes are common sights, adding to the range’s majestic and formidable appearance. From the central plains of the Sheldemar Valley, the Crystalmist Mountains dominate the horizon, their peaks disappearing into the clouds. The region is home to formidable creatures such as cloud giants and hill giants, and ancient caves within the mountains lead to the Underdark, a realm shrouded in myth and danger, with tales of drow raiding nearby villages.
Branching off from the Crystalmist Mountains are the Jotens, a significant spur of peaks. These mountains are comparable to other notable ranges, with snow-capped summits and seasonal variations. The Jotens are home to various dangerous creatures, including giants, making the region perilous. Despite these threats, the mountains host several mining operations, where valuable minerals and metals are extracted. However, these activities are risky due to the constant danger posed by the hostile inhabitants of the Jotens.
The Little Hills lie near the Jotens, serving as a series of foothills. This region is primarily inhabited by dwarves and halflings, with fewer gnomes compared to other areas. The Little Hills are known for their shallow mining operations, focused on extracting valuable resources from the earth. These hills act as a transition zone from the plains to the towering peaks of the Jotens, providing a relatively safer environment for settlement.
Adjacent to the Jotens are the Good Hills, an area reminiscent of idyllic, pastoral regions. The Good Hills are dotted with small villages inhabited by gnomes, halflings, and humans, creating a peaceful and picturesque landscape. This region is relatively safe, with rolling hills and verdant valleys. However, recent issues with giants emerging from the nearby Jotens have caused some unrest, disrupting the otherwise tranquil life of the inhabitants. The Good Hills evoke images of pastoral harmony, akin to a fantasy Shire, with its friendly and industrious residents.
To the south, extending from the Crystalmist Mountains, are the Tors. These mountains are smaller and less imposing than the Jotens or Crystalmist Mountains, resembling less formidable mountain ranges. The Tors experience snow in the winter but are not as high, often plateauing. This region is home to various small tribes and factions, including some humanoid races such as kobolds and hobgoblins. The Tors are rich in rare gems, gold, and silver, attracting mountain dwarves who engage in extensive mining activities. The area’s wealth of resources has a long history, with the Tors being a notable mining hub despite the presence of potential dangers.
Together, these geographical features shape the Sheldemar Valley, influencing the settlements, activities, and conflicts within the region. Each mountain range and hill area contributes to the valley’s diverse landscape, making it a land of both opportunity and peril.