Chandhar

Chandhar, in the context of certain science fiction or fantasy universes (most notably, those influenced by or directly drawing from the works of Jack Vance), refers to a specific type of settlement or dwelling. Typically, a Chandhar is a dilapidated, ruined, or decaying structure, often ancient and of unknown origin. These structures are frequently found on dying or heavily altered planets, and are characterized by their labyrinthine layouts, unreliable technology, and general air of entropy and abandonment.

Chandhars are often depicted as dangerous and unpredictable environments. Their internal systems may be dysfunctional or react in unexpected ways, and they might be inhabited by strange creatures, scavengers, or the remnants of former inhabitants. The technology found within a Chandhar is often highly advanced but poorly understood, making it both valuable and hazardous to those who attempt to utilize it. The term implies a sense of faded glory, suggesting that the Chandhar was once part of a thriving civilization that has long since vanished, leaving behind only these crumbling remnants.

The term evokes a feeling of mystery and decay, suggesting a history lost to time and a future uncertain. Chandhars serve as ideal settings for stories involving exploration, danger, and the rediscovery of forgotten knowledge. The inherent risk and potential rewards associated with exploring these locations often drive the narratives in which they feature. They are not merely buildings, but represent the physical embodiment of a lost past and the uncertainties of the future.