Karov

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Overview

Photography by Sarah Loughlin
Costume: model's own

The rich heartland of the nation, and the wealthiest territory in terms of timber and amber, this is where most outsiders think of when Varushka is mentioned. The vales here exist among rich forests, where they have not been cleared to make way for small farms. Karov has the largest towns in Varushka, and the majority of its boyars come from this relatively civilised territory. A great deal of trade happens in Karov, with wagon trains and river barges carrying raw materials south to Temeschwar and north to more isolated valleys who are in need. Despite its settled nature, it would be a mistake to think the land is entirely tamed and great tracts of wilderness still remain, often home to particularly malignant – if quiescent – sovereigns. Many towns and villages in Karov employ Stzena, local musicians who perform at local civic events and celebrations.

Major Settlements

Delev

The oldest and proudest of the Vales that guard the road from Semmerlak to reborn Seren and the south. Delev is a hub for the many smaller vales dotted around southern Varushka. It has a complex rivalry with Temeschwar, which outgrew its parent and then left the family. Delev is the foremost again, which suits it well, but it still bears the insult of Temeschwar’s elevation.

In early 377YE a sequence of fortified watchtowers and walled camp sites was erected around Delev, and in various strategic points along the road to Seren, serving as secure bases of operation for bounty-hunters and wardens concerned with both bandit and wolves alike. Overseen by Bridget Eastville (senator for Mitwold) as part of a larger Senate initiative to provide protection to towns throughout the Empire, the defences are not sufficient to qualify Delev as a fortification but have already helped reduce casual outlawry throughout the territory. They have also prompted some discussion about further work, and the value of building a complete system of forts and castles in the vicinity of this vital trade hub.

Minor Settlements

Kolvy

A centre for fur trapping in the woods that surround it. The locals know well that wealth attracts Wolves and the hunting is done subject to great care, attempting to leave as little disturbance to the land as can be. Best to leave the sleepers sleeping.

Korotny

A bustling port, picking up some trade from the foreign lands across the Semmerlak and running a small fishing fleet. Perhaps a little more than most in Varushka they dream; dream of how their fortunes might rise if the Barrens was brought into the Empire. From time to time, exploratory expeditions set forth to the far shore. Some return with goods, tales, and a measure of pride. Some do not.

Olvanshka

The wildest vale of Karov, home to many Warden brotherhoods standing guard on the Sovereigns who sleep in the hills to its north and west.

Vorota

Once a vital guard, and now a frontier. Its folk rightly consider themselves the last Vale of true Varushka on the road south. It’s home to some who chose to leave Temeschwar rather than leave Varushka, and many don’t have the warmest of feelings towards the prodigal city. It has been fortified of late, due to the barbarian incursions in Wintermark, and the guards are even more suspicious of travellers than usual.

Places of Interest

The Weeping Stone of Karov

A great standing stone atop a mound. The stone appears melted, like the wax of a candle, as if it once stood in a limestone cave. No grass will grow on the mound.