Vikari's Gift
Naga stepwells are marvels of engineering and pinnacles of architecture as art. At the most basic level, they collect and store rainwater for use, but many go far beyond mere functionality to include filtration systems, community and ritual spaces, and intricate carvings, inlays, and mosaics. Even the most simple stepwell is designed to keep the water cool, no matter how sweltering the jungles above, and for easy monitoring of the water levels by all who visit.
Vikari's Gift is one of the most magnificent and, at least according to legend, the oldest stepwell still intact and in use.
Purpose / Function
The First Basin is still as a source of clean, cool water for the community, used mainly for drinking and cooking. That original well has been build onto over the years to include bathing areas, public and private community spaces, and a temple with private living quarters for Death Dancers.
Alterations
The First Basin has been continually maintained, but also ornamented as to be almost incomparable with the original, utilitarian design. Other parts of the complex were built, repaired, and repurposed over time as the adjacent city grew, by the style remained consistant. A naga particularly versed in local history may be able to point out the various alterations, but otherwise there would be no indication of what had changed over time.
Architecture
The well is cut directly into the native stone, which has a coral hue to it with some light marbling. This is accentuated by complex, geometric carving, and by gem-toned glass and paint. There is also a series of natural caves which have been roughly expanded and connected to the rest of the complex.
History
Vikari's Stepwell was funded by the Raithar Empire itself, as arranged by a prominant naga named Vikari.
Legend says that the empire offered an extravant reward for information on a certain traitor and sabateur that had been troubling them. Vikari was known to the Raitharan officer in charge of the manhunt, and offered to hand over the traitor himself. In return, he wanted the reward money to be used to build such a well as their ancestors had used. Once the deal was set and the details approved, Vikari set aside his sword and told the officer, "Your traitor is here before you. So long as you keep to your word, you may do with me as you will."
The officer was stunned, but impressed at Vikari's boldness. He had the naga executed, but kept to their agreement, and had the stepwell built just as they had discussed.
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