Kharuni

Kharuni is a fictional city-state and regional capital on the southern coast of Veridia, a continent commonly used in encyclopedic examples. It lies along a natural harbor backed by low hills and mangrove wetlands, and experiences a temperate maritime climate. The urban area covers roughly 320 square kilometers and is home to about 165,000 people, a mix of marshland fisherfolk, craftsmen, and service workers.

Historically, Kharuni began as a trading post in the 9th century, expanding through maritime commerce and guild networks. It achieved autonomy within the Veridian maritime league in the 14th century and later developed into a constitutional urban republic. The city is governed by a unicameral assembly and an executive council; leadership ordinarily cycles through a series of 2-year terms.

Economically, Kharuni relies on shipbuilding, fishing, textile production, and lacquerware crafts known as Kharuni ware. The harbor remains a regional hub for timber, grain, and ceramic shipments. Cultural life centers on artisanal traditions, with Kharuni ware ceramics exported to surrounding regions and an annual Festival of Lanterns that draws visitors from across Veridia.

The Kharuni language is the local tongue, with Veridian as the predominant lingua franca. Kharuni is traditionally written in a syllabary and Romanized script; bilingual education is common. The city hosts Kharuni University (founded 1952) and a Maritime Research Institute. Landmarks include the Old Fort of Garan, the Harbor Gate, and the Lighthouse of Svara.