Var'da

The Black City

Deep in the cavernous bowels of The Underdark, the notorious Night Elves make their home in Var'da. Often called the Black City, especially by outsiders, it is one of the largest settlements in the Underdark. Var'da is built around arcing cliffs, a mighty waterfall, and twisted spires of stone. Common homes are carved into the rocks and spires, packed tight with a claustrophobic uniformity. The city is dominated by temples. According to Night Elven tradition, Var'da's Infernal temples, called ziggurats, are the oldest temples on Sol. While most cities on the continent are ruled by a single authority, Var'da has traditionally been ruled by the Matriarchal Council, a body of four matriarchs of the Black City who are heads of the most prominent families. Each family patronizes one of the city's temples and rules in tandem with their guidance. Despite the harshness of the city, it is also well known for its bustling markets, which draw merchants from the Underdark and the surface, trading both in slaves and exotic Underdark goods.