A little over two thousand years ago the then independent city state of Azir was wracked by violent religious
strife that distressed many of its citizens. A military coup deposed the city's leaders and installed the
noted philosopher Kalim Onaku, who became First Keeper of the city's new laws. The most remarkable of these was
the banning of all religion from the city. The idea spread like wildfire to neighbouring settlements and soon
the nation of Rahadoum was born.
To this day no religious artefacts or texts are allowed in the nation (although they can be purchased on the
black market) and heavy fines are imposed on those caught in possession of these illegal items. Down the ages
Rahadoum has been a haven for philosophers and artists who enjoyed much freedom of speech and expression (provided
that it wasn't in favour of religion). Lately, however, many have felt that the nation has entered a darker period.
When the Rahadoum was founded Kalim Onaku ruled for ten years but then resigned feeling he had stayed in power too long. He therefore enacted a rule that limited the role of First Keeper to five years. Fifty years ago this rule was broken to allow the benign philosopher Malik Tirani a second term. Since that time the rule has been persistently changed until today the current First Leeper, Orami Bestalim, is in his fourth term. Although still elected by the council
Orami has used his position to manipulate public opinion and persuade the nation that Rahadoum is under in danger
of falling to 'religious fundamentalists' and only he can protect the country's constitution.
Rahadoum is still a very prosperous nation, however, with famed universities and much sort after exports of jewels, fine cloth and other exotic produce. Foreign merchants who care nothing for religious or philosophical conflicts throng its shops and bazaars. Rahadoum's military, particularly its navy, has a fine reputation. A thorn in the navy's side, however, are
The Shackles pirates who prey on its shipping, particularly vessels involved in the slave trade.