Arrakeen

This article refers to elements from Original Dune
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Arrakeen article for Expanded Dune

Arrakeen article for The Dune Encyclopedia

Arrakeen (Dune CCG, art by Randy Asplund-Faith)

Arrakeen, later known as Onn and then Keen, was one of the largest cities on the desert planet Arrakis, and its seat of power.

History[]

Prior to the arrival of the Atreides on Arrakis, the Emperor's right-hand man Count Hasimir Fenring and his wife Margot had resided in the palace. Leto I had chosen Arrakeen for his seat of government because it was small, easier to sterilize and defend.

Arrakeen would go through multiple transformations over time; it first became an Imperial capital of staggering proportions under Paul Muad'Dib. It was later transformed into a festival city known as Onn, explicitly for the worship of the God-Emperor Leto II. Finally, in the centuries after his death, it was known as Keen, a modern (though still impressive) city to house the Priesthood of Rakis.

During the time of the Faufreluches, the city was where the ruling family maintained its household. After the death of Leto II, the city fell under the control of the Priesthood whose deity was the God-Emperor. Even though the Imperium was no more, the city remained an important political centre due to its concentration of those who worshipped the God-Emperor, as well as acting as the administration centre for spice mining operations.

The Bene Gesserit, the Fish Speakers, and other groups maintained a presence there in various forms.

Description[]

It was located near the northern pole of the planet, and sat largely on a mass of bedrock. This, in conjunction with the protection afforded by the Shield Wall, prevented any incursions from sandworms.

Aside from providing the governing influence with a base of operations, the chief activities in Arrakeen were trade with off-world groups and individuals, and as a gathering point for some Fremen who preferred a more 'cultured' or exotic life.

During the time of the Lost Ones were returning from the Scattering, the city's name had become shortened to Keen.