Sword Coast

Running along the Sea of Swords, the Sword Coast is a narrow band of territory dominated by the city-states of the area that use the sea for trade. For most who care about such things, the area is delimited by the boreal forests of Neverwinter in the north and the mires of Baldur's Gate in the south, but territory farther to the north and south that isn't under the sway of a more influential power is usually also included in the domains of the Sword Coast.   Andalos (the broader region) is filled with rich history and wondrous tales of adventure and magic, but the lifeblood of its common people is agriculture and trade. Most rural folk depend on farming to eat, and Andals who live in cities ply skilled trades or use brawn to earn their keep, so they can purchase the goods and food provided by the others. News and gossip are carried between population centers by caravans and ships that bring in supplies for trade and by traveling bards and minstrels who recount (or invent) stories to inform and entertain people in taverns, inns, and castles. Adventurers also spread news - while also creating it!