Varn Dolarr

Varn Dolarr is a picturesque city nestled against the base of a large mountain range, surrounded by lush tiered farmlands and a winding, slow-moving river that sustains its agriculture. It is a thriving hub for both farming and fishing, with its floating gardens on a nearby lake being one of its most iconic features. The people of Varn Dolarr take pride in their deep connection to the land, combining traditional methods of farming with innovative techniques that maximize their mountainous terrain. History   Varn Dolarr’s history dates back to the Age of Giants, when the fertile valley it now occupies was known for being a battleground between the giants and the local mountain tribes. As the giants faded being turned to stone, the survivors of the wars rebuilt the land and established a city focused on sustainable living. Over generations, they developed complex terraced farms carved into the mountainside, which allowed them to grow a variety of crops, even in the rugged landscape.   As the city expanded, the slow-moving river became a lifeline, both for irrigation and for fishing. Fishermen discovered that the river and its nearby lake were home to a variety of fish species, leading to the creation of large floating gardens that continue to supply the city with herbs, vegetables, and fish. These floating gardens became a marvel of agricultural engineering, attracting scholars and travelers alike.   Culture   The people of Varn Dolarr are deeply connected to the land and water. They value hard work, community, and sustainability. Most residents are either farmers, fishers, or artisans who support the agricultural backbone of the city. The community is highly cooperative, with families often working together to maintain the terraced farms and floating gardens.   Festivals celebrating the harvest, the river, and the changing of the seasons are central to life in Varn Dolarr. One of the most important celebrations is the Festival of the Floating Gardens, where the city honors the lake and its bounty with a week of feasts, boat races, and offerings to the river spirits.   While Varn Dolarr is primarily human and dwarven, many races live here, drawn by the peaceful lifestyle and the city’s emphasis on nature and self-sufficiency. Druids, rangers, and others who revere nature often make Varn Dolarr their home, contributing to the city's ecological balance and preservation efforts.   Notable Places   1. The Tiered Fields of Dolarr – One of the most iconic features of Varn Dolarr, these terraced farms climb the sides of the nearby mountains, growing everything from grains to fruit trees. The fields are irrigated by intricate water channels fed from the river, and families have passed down the knowledge of maintaining these fields for generations.     2. The Silver River – This slow-moving river runs through the heart of the city, its waters supplying both the terraced farms and the floating gardens. The river is teeming with fish, and its gentle currents make it ideal for fishing and transportation. Many of the city's homes and markets are built along the riverbank, allowing easy access to its resources.     3. The Floating Gardens of Lake Olmeth – The lake near Varn Dolarr is famous for its massive floating gardens, which are essentially floating farms that grow vegetables, herbs, and flowers. These gardens are anchored to the lakebed by magical means, and they move slightly with the lake's currents, creating a dynamic agricultural system. The lake is also known for its crystal-clear waters and rich fishing grounds.     4. Dolarr Hall – The center of governance and community gathering, Dolarr Hall is a large, rustic stone building near the river. It serves as both a town hall and a meeting place for farmers, fishers, and artisans to discuss city-wide concerns, agricultural issues, and festival planning. The hall also houses a small library dedicated to agricultural texts and records.     5. The Great Fish Market – Located along the riverbanks, the Great Fish Market is where fishers bring their daily catch to sell or trade. The market is bustling each morning with vendors offering fresh fish, as well as dishes prepared from the catch of the day. Fishermen from nearby towns often come to Varn Dolarr to sell their goods as well, making it a regional hub for fish and river produce.     6. The Greenhouse of the Eldertree – A massive greenhouse built into the side of the mountain, the Greenhouse of the Eldertree is a place where rare plants and herbs are grown. It is managed by a collective of druids and herbalists, who ensure that the plants grown here help maintain the balance of nature. It’s also where magical herbs are cultivated, making it an important location for healers and alchemists.     7. The Quarry District – The rocky terrain surrounding the city is rich in stone, and the Quarry District is where much of the stone used for construction and trade is mined. Dwarves, in particular, work in the quarry, and the stone from Varn Dolarr is known for its durability and quality.       Functioning of the City   Varn Dolarr operates with a strong communal spirit. The city is led by the Council of Stewards, a group of elected representatives from the main sectors of society—farmers, fishers, artisans, and druids. Each steward represents the interests of their group, and they meet regularly to make decisions about the city’s welfare, resource management, and festival organization.   The economy of Varn Dolarr is primarily agrarian, with its fish, crops, and stone being the most significant exports. The city trades extensively with nearby towns and cities, including Ivadoor, sending both fresh produce and crafted goods down the river. The floating gardens have become a popular attraction for visitors and scholars, who often bring new ideas and methods for improving the city’s agricultural practices.   While the city doesn’t have a formal military, the River Wardens, a group of rangers and druids, patrol the river and lake to protect the city's resources and ensure the balance of nature. They are also responsible for maintaining the floating gardens and managing the interactions between the city's population and the natural world.