Vanazir

Visible from a distance, the city of Vanazir, the capital of the Zatara Jungle, rises above the tree line with its magnificent Crystal Tower. Placed atop a rocky hill, the Crystal Tower, and the royal complex are constructed from enormous gems seemingly emerging from solid rock. Inside these crystals, a palace with its many rooms resides at the base, with the tower extending above, making it the tallest structure of Vanazir. Close to the tower, one can find many buildings, including the royal jeweler and armorer in the front, and the servants’ homes in the back. The city is composed of a main road that spirals around the mountain, featuring numerous shortcuts that cut across the circumference at various angles, as well as smaller roads on the platforms. The higher the buildings, the more opulent their appearance, with many adorned with imported stone and wood. Many buildings are constructed on tall poles to stand as high as possible. On the platforms, stone homes are built as high as possible, signifying elevated status. These platforms create shaded areas underneath them, making space for buildings bellow. As those places are undesirable many see them as slums. Homes at the top are connected by bridges and mark the border of the upper city. Anything on the ground is considered part of the slums and is regarded as inferior in the eyes of the wealthy citizens. Merchants traveling from other cities use ramps or lifts to transport their goods to the higher streets, where shops and warehouses are located. The main market is the only location on the ground that is used by everyone, primarily offering regional goods and food.

Legend has it that ages ago, the city was visited by a great wizard. He came from distant lands, where his people sought to kill him because they were jelous of his power. Fleeing for his life, he found refuge in Vanazir. With his magic, he helped the city prosper, becoming a respected citizen in everyone’s eyes. Many believed him to be the most powerful wizard there was only weaker than the gods themself. It is said that one day he moved the mountain from the ground on which the city stands today. He lived in Vanazir for many years, but one night, he vanished into thin air, leaving everyone confused. People searched for him but couldn’t find a trace. After a year of his disappearance, he returned, and the city celebrated his return with great festivities. However, on that night, something unusual occurred. No one knows precisely what, but it is said that a week later, the city found itself in the eye of a fog storm, and the glimmer it left behind looked different. It was red and bitter. When everything settled down, those who came to the city saw only a massive crystal protruding from the bedrock in which the palace is located.