Lake Vimala
The highland lake of the Republic of Johaulia has been honored since antiquity as one of the sacred springs of creation and a dwelling-place for the gods and their minions. Lake Vimala /vih-~MAH-la/ was sacred in turn to ancient Kalama, ancient Midretasso, during the Yophenthean Empire, and for modern-day Johaulia. The name Vimala originates from the ancient Kalaman name of the god Bhimala, the divinity that is believed to occupy and preside over the body of water.
Bounded on all sides by steep or sloping hills, the lake receives water from the Plateau of Midretasso and drains through a system of locks and dikes into the sea, pouring down two world-famous cataracts across from the City of Johaulia into Lake Amalcumir. Lake Vimala rests at 3.54 DF (571 meters or 1873 feet) above sea level. The lake has been measured to at least 2.075 DF (334 meters or 1096 feet) deep towards its center.
The lake waters temper the climate so that winters are mild and summers moderately warm. Cypress and poplars speckled the shores which enjoy abundant rainfall in the winter, spring, and autumn.
Temples and shrines dot the coastline of the lake and legends recount the exploits of the god Liluthio and other divinities who are thought to inhabit the waters or visit the surround hills.
The city of Addinoro is home to the Temple of Vimal, the traditional guardian divinity of the lake, regarded as the offspring of the god Liluthio and the mortal woman, Thiobena.
By tradition, there are fifteen most sacred temples associated with Lake Vimala. Pilgrims often will visit all or most of these temples.
Transportation
The lake easily affords itself to transportation throughout the central territory of the republic and has done so since ancient times. Boats, barges, and even rafts ensure that the humblest person is not limited to his home town. Commercial traffic is typical on the western shore of the lake, bearing wares between Agdaire in the south and Johaulia to the north. In ancient times, lake dragons threatened the peace of voyagers and residents, until heros of the Midretassene Empire slew all water-dwelling dragons centuries ago, most notably the semi-divine hero, Addan, for which the city of Addinoro is named.
See Also
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