The coast is on the Inner Sea. 

Like Vindrus, Toam (TOE-um) is a caste-based society, except that there are only two castes: Toamites (TOE-um-eye-ts), and the rest of the world. A person whose mother was not a Toamite is not themselves a Toamite, and cannot become one. All non-Toamites are untouchable to Toamites. Foreigners are unclean. If it is necessary to speak with one, Toamites wear a veil, and keep their distance. They are sometimes called the Veiled Ones, but except when there are foreigners about, they do not wear veils. All Toamites do wear a straw hat when they are outside on sunny days.

The restrictions apply particularly to the priests, who are not allowed even to see a foreigner. The ban is most strictly enforced on holy days (of which there are four each month: new moon, full moon, and the days on either side of the full moon), at other times Toamites of low rank are permitted to speak with foreigners, and even to trade with them.

People have different talents, and do different jobs. In theory, all jobs are equal in merit and status, but in the real world, wealth is highly regarded, and is flaunted by those who have it. Wealth is goods: Toamites refuse to deal with coinage, and only reluctantly accept precious metals.

All children are educated. It is held to be important that they be able to read the holy words of the Law for themselves.

Women are not regarded as inferiors, but each sex has its tasks: mainly farming, herding and studying magic for men; child-rearing and crafting for women. "Women make, men do," is a common proverb, used to reprove a child showing interest in tasks assigned to the other sex. Women are allowed to learn some spells, but are generally discouraged from studying magic. Casting spells is held to rob from the souls of the children they have not yet had. Many women, as they pass their childbearing years, suddenly reveal

The Law is holy. Every Toamite is expected to study it all their life, and to be able to quote it freely. Teachers interpret the hard parts, and show a person in difficulty how the Law applies to their situation. Especially inspired teachers go to Zelrem, to the Great Temple, and are initiated as Priests.

Minor breaches of the Law are dealt with by confessing to a priest or teacher, who assigns a period of uncleanness, and a suitable punishment. This is usually either restitution or a fine, but may be a flogging. People who commit major crimes are stoned to death.

This is an agricultural society. Except for Zelrem, there are no settlements larger than a village. People are generally self-sufficient, although many villages find they have an especially talented craftswoman, and support her in luxury, making good exchanges for the items she makes.

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