The Republic of Laeden is a colossal, cultured nation, notable for its public floggings, ubiquitous missile silos, and aversion to nipples. The hard-nosed, hard-working, democratic, devout population of 6.678 billion Laedenians have some civil rights, but not too many, enjoy the freedom to spend their money however they like, to a point, and take part in free and open elections, although not too often.

The medium-sized, corrupt government juggles the competing demands of Education, Defense, and Industry. It meets to discuss matters of state in the capital city of Arcadia. The average income tax rate is 74.1%, and even higher for the wealthy.

The frighteningly efficient Laedenian economy, worth a remarkable 1,206 trillion denariis a year, is broadly diversified and dominated by the Information Technology industry, with significant contributions from Book Publishing, Arms Manufacturing, and Retail. Average income is an impressive 180,704 denariis, and distributed extremely evenly, with little difference between the richest and poorest citizens.

The bonfire of the old paper records can be seen for miles around Arcadia, immigrant herding has become a national pastime, Leader's handshakes with opposition leaders usually lead to thumb wars, and frisbee games on college quadrangles are grounds for expulsion. Crime, especially youth-related, is totally unknown, thanks to a capable police force and progressive social policies in education and welfare. Laeden's national animal is the Griffin, which soars majestically through the nation's famously clear skies.

Laeden is ranked 256,257^th in the world and 213^th in The Western Isles for Highest Crime Rates, with 1.79 crimes per hour.