Dun Iar

Dun Iar is a village located in the West Dunshire area of Chrichheim. It is positioned inbetween two lochs: the north bank of the larger Loch Clyde and the south bank of the much smaller Loch Leven.
Dun Iar was the historical capital of the now-defunct Kingdom of Stradclod. Castle Iar, on top of Iar Rock, dominates the area and was an important strategic point during Stradclod's time. It remains garrisoned to this day.
The village's economy focuses primarily on glassblowing and whisky production, as well as typical agricultural pursuits just outside of its borders.
== Characteristics ==
=== History ===
Dun Iar's history stretches all the way back to the first uniting of the pre-Imperial tribes, and most likely goes back even further than that. It has been suggested that in the initial, uniting campaigns against the Orcs Hordes Dun Iar was considered an area of importance.
The fortress at Dun Iar was the stronghold of the short-lived Kingdom of Stradclod during its time and served as its seat of power. The village that now exists today grew from the strategic importance of the fortress. When Stradclod and Albran were united, forming Chrichheim, the fortress was demolished and rebuilt using more advanced construction and defensive techniques.
Historically, there was concern that flooding from the two lochs that its sits on would destroy the entire village. Flood defences were considered for a time but plans were thrown away after research into the lochs discovered that flooding was, in fact, very unlikely. Nevertheless, some in the village interpret this as negligence by the local government.
A bridge over Loch Leven has similarly been suggested, the argument being that said bridge would allow for the village's ease of expansion. Though nothing has physically happened yet, early plans are being drawn up for this project.
=== Geography ===
Dun Iar uniquely sits nestled between the expansive Loch Clyde to the north and the smaller, more tranquil Loch Leven to the south, thereby occupying a land rich in natural beauty and strategic value. The village is anchored by the imposing presence of Castle Iar, situated atop Iar Rock, a natural fortification that has overseen the area's history and development. This positioning between two lochs not only provides Dun Iar with natural defensive advantages but also influences its climate, resulting in a temperate weather pattern with ample rainfall, supporting the lush, verdant landscapes that surround the village. The terrain around Dun Iar is a mixture of gentle hills and flatlands, offering fertile ground for agriculture while the lochs themselves contribute to the area's biodiversity and the scenic views that define this historic settlement.
=== Economy ===
Dun Iar's economy is driven primarily by its glassblowing and whisky production industries. The village's glassblowing workshops are famed throughout The Lowlands for their exquisite craftsmanship and intricate designs, with products ranging from practical household items to ornate artistic pieces that are sought after by collectors and nobility alike. The production of whisky, another cornerstone of the local economy, capitalizes on the pure waters of Loch Leven and the rich grains cultivated in the surrounding fields.
In addition to these specialized industries, the economy of Dun Iar is supported by traditional agricultural pursuits, with farms dotting the landscape just beyond the village's borders. These farms produce a variety of crops and rear livestock, sustaining the community and providing surplus goods for trade. The location of Dun Iar, being between two lochs also creates a modest trade in fish and freshwater resources, adding another layer to the village's economic activities.
=== Culture ===
The local culture of Dun Iar is infused with the historical legacy and the artisanal traditions of its past. The village is a hub of cultural activities, with the glassblowing and whisky distilleries not just as economic enterprises but as crafts that embody the spirit and skill of the community. Festivals and markets celebrating these crafts attract visitors from across the region, fostering a sense of pride and shared identity among the residents. Castle Iar, a symbol of Dun Iar's historical significance, plays a central role in the village's cultural events, hosting gatherings that commemorate its role in the Kingdom of Stradclod with re-enactments, storytelling, and traditional music. The location of the village also influences local traditions, with waterborne festivities and competitions adding to the community's rich tapestry of cultural expressions.
== Trivia ==
* Dun Iar is based on the real-life town of Dumbarton, Scotland.