It's hard to explain. It just exists, and moves around us. Some times less subtly than others, and there are those who can tap into the Force, use it to help them. Some people use it to hurt others.

[ She's a little hesitant to go into either one, since both types of people are currently here in Thedas. The other question is a little easier to answer. ]

I know what I've heard. There was a Hutt called Niima that built up the outpost that I grew up near. She was a criminal overlord, bought and sold people and it eventually caught up with her. After she died a group of people that saw her as a god supposedly built up a sacred village around her skull. I've never been there, but then I wouldn't be invited to a place like that.