The Tomb of Two

Galacus, a Kothian Dux, had acquired great wealth in the service of Strabonus' grandfather.  In preparation for his demise, he prepared the traditional barrow, but somewhat taken by his own legend, made it of extravagant style and proportions.

Strabonus' father, now ruler of Koth, attended Galacus' funeral, but was struck with fury upon seeing the burial place.  He proclaimed before all that "such a tomb was large enough for two", and ordered the immediate execution of Galacus' eldest daughter.  He followed this up by laying a curse on the family for seven generations : whenever one of their males died, his eldest child must be taken into death with him.  Failure to comply would lead to the entire bloodline being wiped from the surface of the earth.

Hence it is that the "Tomb of Two", which by Strabonus' reign contains two dozen bodies, half having died of a natural death, and half sacrificed, is a haunted place, source of numerous legends.  A beautiful flower of deep red colour, which grows only here, now covers the barrows and it is said that those who distill and drink its petals will either have power over the spirit world, or be drawn into it and fade into shadow.

Original art by Paul Raymond Gregory

Another story claims that any man or woman who, upon one of the barrow stones, promises the sacrifice of their first born, will have any wish they make come true; others agree that the barrow wights will grant it, but,as punishment, always twist it beyond meaning.