The central city of the Ashen Coast, Varkunast (ڤاركوناست) stands as one of the most iconic cities of Eqos. The holy city of Varkayan, it is said to be one of the center-points of arcane knowledge and the home of the Varkaniyyah religion. It has been the capital of the Varhamsat Khadumate for most of recent history, until it joined the Calamity Covenant in 3E467. The jewel of the southern coast, the city rises majestically upon a hill overlooking the convergence of the Vazi River and the vast Kourā Expanse beyond. Its architecture is a blend of intricate mosaics, domed rooftops, and labyrinthine alleyways, inspired by real-life arabian culture. The city’s skyline is dominated not only by minarets and spires but also by the distant silhouettes of five volcanic peaks in the horizon, their presence both revered and feared by the city’s inhabitants. The largest structure of the city is the Grand Temple of Varkayan, visible from miles away.
The Temple is often erroneously included as one of the Eight Wonders of the World, instead of the Temple of Aethys which is larger. Regardless of the list, it is undeniably one of the greatest structures on the planet.
As the holy city of Varkaniyyah, The city is steeped in mysticism and religious fervor. Temples decorated with intricate carvings of arcane history and vibrant tapestries pay homage to the blood god. It is considered to be the polar opposite city to the undeath of al-Fahim on the other side of Eqos as undeath is forbidden in Varkaniyyah. Pilgrims from distant lands traverse the arid desert, seeking solace and enlightenment within the sacred halls of the grand temple. Cascading terraces and verdant gardens cover the hillside, fuelled by the waters from the Vazi River to create oases of respite amidst the desert’s harsh ashstorms. The city serves as one of the trade hubs of the continent, with ships heading up the river to the cities of Erumaltu and Jamre. Using a local plant called the blood cactus, clerics create potions of ashen blood in this city.
Yet, despite its beauty and spiritual significance, Varkunast exists in the shadow of both natural wonder and potential peril. The ever-present threat of volcanic activity looms over the city, a reminder of the unpredictable forces of nature that shape its existence. The juxtaposition of divine reverence and the raw power of the elements lends an air of both sanctity and precariousness to this captivating desert coastal oasis, where faith and resilience are as intertwined as the rivers that flow into the Springlight Sea.
Areas of the city include:
Grand Temple of Varkanus. One of the largest monuments of worship in Abmarah, the grand temple rises in the center of the city. Led by the priests of Varkanism, it is the center of Varkanus worship in the world. It is said that Varkanus himself visits the temple from time to time, to take in all the blood that is sacrificed for him in this temple.
Hayy Al-Anwar. Meaning 'Neighborhood of Lights', this is a bustling district on the riverbank adorned with countless lanterns and vibrant nightlife, where the streets come alive after dusk. One of the largest middle-class neighborhoods of the city, it also houses the primary markets. Some areas of interest include:
The Varkunast branch of the Department of Dungeons.
Azim Aljadeed. Meaning 'New Heights', this neighborhood perches atop the highest hill of the city, offering panoramic views of the city and its surroundings for mostly upper-class residents who have some religious sway in the theocratic city.
Qalb Al-Bahr. Meaning 'Heart of the Sea', this fishing district lies closest to the ocean, known for its vibrant fish markets and seafront promenades. It also serves as the primary harbour of the city out towards the Springlight Sea. Some areas of interest include:
Vazi Fish Market, one of the largest fish markets this side of Eqos. Situated near the mouth of the Vazi River, it is attended by thousands of people every day.
Ramadil. A shanty town that surrounds most of the city, it is the poorest district of the city that mostly stretches into the desert with little quality of life. It is hit by ashstorms the most of any area of the city, and residents have to suffer in the harsh air.