Urhai

Urhai is a fictional city that appears across fantasy literature and role-playing game materials as a riverport and cultural crossroads. In most depictions, it sits along a major river in the eastern riverlands and functions as a hub for trade, travel, and ideas. Its portrayal varies by author, but it is commonly imagined as densely populated, cosmopolitan, and consciously maintaining a balance between mercantile interests and civic institutions.

Geographically, Urhai is placed on a broad alluvial plain with the river providing both transportation routes and access to hinterland markets. The surrounding landscape often includes fertile farmland, with hills or low cliffs nearby that give the city defensible perimeters. The climate is typically described as temperate, with wet winters and dry summers that influence agricultural cycles and festival calendars.

Historically, Urhai is depicted as having ancient roots and a long tradition of commerce. Many sources describe a city governed by merchant councils or rotating assemblies, reflecting a culture that prizes trade, literacy, and diplomacy. The Great Bazaar is a common centerpiece, acting as a magnet for traders, artisans, and travelers from diverse communities. The city’s fortunes in various narratives swing with tides of regional power, occasional conflicts, and shifting alliances.

Economy and culture in Urhai emphasize trade, craft production, and knowledge exchange. Key activities often include pottery, textiles, metalwork, and shipbuilding or riverine logistics. Cultural life features guild networks, religious and scholarly institutions, and seasonal rites that celebrate the river and the markets. Across different works, Urhai remains a backdrop for political drama, economic intrigue, and cross-cultural encounters.