The Golden Kingdom of Vahlaasas

The official religion of Vahlaasas is Vahliimism, a monotheistic religion centered around the solar goddess Vahliimi. Its origins can be traced back throughout the millenia to the first nomadic human tribes of Meridian; it is largely believed among scholars that the very first cults that worshiped the fire and the sun are the forefathers of Vahliimism. Religion is the core of the Vahlsh people - the very foundation of their society and cultural identity. The state church controls the country, and at its top, above everybody else, the Godsent rules over the entirety of Vahlaasas.

Rejecting the teachings of Vahliimism is considered a crime that deserves the harshest of punishments. Even visitors are required to abide by the law of the state church; the only exceptions are those who have received special permission from the Godsent themselves, a pardon that is offered only to foreign ambassadors and royalty. While you are not expected to attend the ceremonies with the rest of the population, you must never show that you do not believe in Vahliimism; in the worst case, being caught practicing other religions or attempting to convert the faithful is punishable by decapitation.

Situated in the center of the Continent, Vahlaasas benefits from long stretches of farmland and plains. Their lands are fertile, making agriculture the main focus of the country's production. Once regarded as "the granary of the Medeean Empire", their corn, wheat and rye plantations can feed the entire population of the country and still leave enough cereal for export. All of this is possible thanks to the old irrigation systems, powered by arcane sigils, that transport water from mountain springs all the way to the fields.

While not as remarkable as cereals, vegetables remain a good option for farmers that want to diversify their production. The only vegetable worth noting is the local variation of tomatoes, called "sun-kissed tomatoes". Their color vary between mustard yellow and citron, their taste is a little sweeter than usual and they are full of juice, making them great inclusions in fruit-based desserts and drinks.

The country's inner and outer trade routes are separated at the borders, with guards patrolling the outskirts for any possible smugglers. No item enters the country without the eyes of the state church analyzing it; this makes imported goods more expensive for the Vahlsh... and even more desireable. While trading inside the country is not restricted (as long as you pay your taxes), in order for someone to trade with the outside world, they must be specifically allowed by the Godsent. As a result, there are less than ten authorized people that can freely trade with the outside world.