Hath Shihar (hath· SHEE · ar)

Demographics

In Hath Shihar, the vast majority of the population are Loxodons, a peaceful and spiritual species of elephant-like humanoids. The remaining residents of the town are made up of a handful of other species, including humans, elves, and dwarves, who have come to Hath Shihar seeking refuge or peace of mind. The wealth class in Hath Shihar is relatively equal, with everyone in the community sharing in the town's prosperity and resources. The town is self-sufficient, with the majority of the residents being farmers, fishermen, and craftsmen, who trade their goods with other cities. There is a handful of wealthy merchants who have grown rich through trade, and they wield a significant amount of influence in the town. Despite their wealth, they are still subject to the rule of the Ovate Priest, and they play a role in the town's governance, just like everyone else. There are also a number of healers, scholars, and artisans who play an important role in the town's spiritual and cultural life.

Government

The government of Hath Shihar is a unique blend of religious and communitarian principles, with elements of communism. The town is ruled by the Ovate Priest, who is seen as the representative of the gods on earth and has ultimate authority in all matters of the town. Despite this, the town operates as a collective, with everyone having a voice and a role to play in its governance. Decisions are made through consensus, with the Ovate Priest consulting with the elders and members of the community to ensure that all views are taken into account.
This communal approach to governance is driven by the belief that the gods have provided for their people and that it is the responsibility of the community to care for all of its members. In this way, the government of Hath Shihar is designed to ensure that everyone has their basic needs met, and that the community operates in a harmonious and balanced way.
The town's isolation and lack of exposure to outside influence has led to a certain rigidity in its thinking, and there may be resistance to change and to new ideas. However, the town's residents are proud of their way of life and will do everything in their power to preserve it for future generations.

Infrastructure

The town is built around the fertile land near the rivers and forests, with many farms scattered throughout the surrounding countryside. The town is connected by a network of roads, which link all the houses and farms, allowing for easy movement of goods and people.
The entrepreneurial spirit of the town's residents is reflected in the many practical and efficient structures they have built to support their way of life. There are watermills and windmills that dot the landscape, providing power for grinding grain and sawing lumber.
The infrastructure of Hath Shihar is a testament to the practical and efficient mindset of its residents. The town is built to support its residents and to provide for their needs, and the Shihari are constantly working to improve and expand upon their existing structures to support the growing needs of their community.

Districts

Hath Shihar is divided into several neighborhoods, each with its own distinct community spirit and cultural traditions. 
The neighborhoods of Hath Shihar are primarily based on the Loxodons' religious beliefs and practices, with each neighborhood being centered around a temple or shrine dedicated to one of the gods or spirits that the Loxodons worship. These temples and shrines serve as the social and cultural centers of each neighborhood, and the Loxodons gather there regularly to participate in religious celebrations and rituals. There are also several distinct agricultural districts in the surrounding countryside. These districts are centered around large farms and ranches, and are primarily inhabited by Loxodon farmers and their families. The agricultural districts are important to the town's economy, as they provide the food and resources necessary to support the town's residents. 
There is also a small commercial district in Hath Shihar, where the town's market and trading activities take place. This district is home to the town's merchants, who trade with other cities and provide the town with goods and resources from outside its borders. 
The districts of Hath Shihar reflect the strong sense of community and cooperation that is a central part of Loxodon culture. Each district has its own unique character and activities, but all are integrated and interconnected, forming a cohesive and supportive whole.

Natural Resources

The Prastaga Pits: Many hotsprings are scattered in and beneath Hath Shihar, these pits have many healing properties and are integral to the religious ceremonies of the Loxodons. Newborn Loxodons are bathed in the pits for a few days after their birth, and many ceremonies like weddings and offerings are sealed with waters from these pits. They are also used as for spiritual practices such as meditation, prayer, and rituals.
the hot springs and their surrounding environments are seen as important cultural and spiritual resources, and are protected and conserved as part of the town's cultural heritage. The warm, mineral-rich waters of the springs are believed to have restorative properties, and are used to treat a variety of physical and emotional conditions.

Founding Date

286 AF

Alternative Name(s)

The Herd's Haven

Type

Town

Population

4,500 - 5,000

Inhabitant Demonym

Shihari

Location under

Elifya

Owner/Ruler

The Ovate Priest