Garmlagban

Garmlagban is a fictional coastal city-state in the southern archipelago of the Varin Sea. The name, from the Gar language, combines gar 'strong' with lagban 'harbor,' reflecting its origin as a sturdy port settlement. Located on a natural crescent bay, the city enjoys a sheltered harbor, rocky breakwaters, and a temperate maritime climate. Garmlagban is governed by a Merchant Council, elected by guilds and property holders, with a Harbor Captain acting as the executive.

Historically, Garmlagban rose as a trading post in the early medieval period, developing shipyards, terracotta production, and salted fish. It maintained autonomy through local dynasties and later joined a regional confederation of coastal cities. The economy centers on maritime trade, shipbuilding, and related crafts; markets trade timber, basalt, dried fish, ceramics, and salt. The city has traded with inland towns and distant ports, using a network of coastal routes and seasonal fairs.

Cultural life emphasizes seafaring traditions, guild brotherhoods, and a festival named the Tide and Timber Celebration, which marks the start of annual shipping. The population is around 40,000 to 50,000, mixing Garlish-speaking merchants with speakers of neighboring dialects. Notable sites include the Old Market Quarter, the Copper Gate, and the Lumen Lighthouse, a beacon guiding ships along the bay. Garmlagban figures in regional legends as a locus of hardy trading families and navigational skill.