Teros
Teros was for centuries home to great evil. Two millenia ago, Tekkaron ruled much of the Helerin Archipelago from the deep city of Amur Lefra. In more recent times, the tyrannical sorcerer queen Yarivona strove to achieve the same goal, until her defeat by Trybon Fane and the allied armies of the western isles.
Much of Teros now lies under Forbin's rule, its people chafing against their subjugation by the Peacekeepers.
Teros Major is defined by its two prominent mountain ranges—the Redpeak Mountains in the southeast and the Clouded Crags in the northeast. These mountains divide the island into varied regions, with the dry, arid Natarrine Sands and Cape of Dust to the west and south respectively, and the more temperate river valleys in the north and central areas. The northern Festermere swamps, with their humid and perilous environment, contrast sharply with the fertile lands near Leviathan Bay, which benefit from a more moderate climate. Summers across the island are hot and dry, while winters bring cooler temperatures, though snow is rare and mostly limited to higher elevations. Prevailing northeast winds and occasional storms from the Sarran Sea and the Sea of Fair Winds add further variability to the climate.
Teros Minor, the smaller of the two islands, experiences an even harsher, drier climate. The arid Deshlin Plains and the barren Wailing Hills dominate the landscape, both regions subject to scorching summers with little rainfall. The southwest coast, where the rivers Payla and Bod flow into the Mabon Channel, provides the island's only fertile land, sustaining the settlements of Elinann, Radir’s Rock, and Payon. The Strait of Payon, which separates Teros Minor from Teros Major, connects the Sea of Fair Winds to the Sarran Sea, but its unpredictable winds and strong currents make navigation treacherous. Winters on the island are cooler, but the overall arid climate limits agricultural potential, making the Mabon Coast vital for sustaining the population.
The flora and fauna of Teros reflect these climatic extremes. On Teros Major, the plant life ranges from drought-resistant succulents in the desert to hardy Silverhorn trees in the cooler, higher-elevation forests. Inhabitants of Teros Minor rely on sparse yet hardy vegetation, such as Thornfane and Visselstalk, that survive in the dry plains and rocky hills. Wildlife, including formidable predators like the Blackshell beetle and the towering Rhakkor, thrive in both islands' harsh environments. Despite the challenging climates and dangerous creatures, the people of Teros have adapted, making use of fertile river valleys and coastal plains to sustain life and maintain crucial trade links across the archipelago.
Beneath the Lord High Governor and Grand Commander, the occupied territories are divided into four regions, each managed by a senior officer stationed at a major settlement. These regional commanders maintain a firm grip on the larger towns and cities, directing military garrisons and patrols, while the outlying areas remain largely ungoverned, their inhabitants left to fend for themselves against raiders and bandits.
Although the Peacekeepers present themselves as a stabilising force, the reality of Forbin’s rule is one of coercion and oppression.
The River Resk marks the northernmost extent of Forbin’s influence, beyond which the land is a chaotic patchwork of warlord-held territories and untamed wilderness. In the furtherst north, Persothan and the Bulgiss tribes of the Festermere have resisted all Forbin's attempts at subjugation, maintaining a tenuous independence.
Situated in the capital city of Olnath, the Bronze Palace serves as the administrative and military headquarters for the Peacekeeper occupation in Teros. The largest garrison in Teros is housed here, with over 1,200 soldiers stationed within its fortified walls. Castle Birishad
Located in the southern Redpeaks, Castle Birishad is the regional command centre for Peacekeeper forces. Overseeing the vital road near Dassar Bridge, it enables Captain Olin Yorshan to secure key routes through the mountains and maintain control over the Oln and Andras river valleys. Castle Elchorr
Castle Elchorr controls the vital trade routes near the Natarrine Sands. Despite its nominal Peacekeeper garrison, the castle has become a hub for smuggling and corruption. Castle Gennar
Perched on the southern shores of Leviathan Bay, Castle Gennar is a crucial stronghold for the Peacekeepers in the bay region. The garrison stationed here oversees coastal approaches, protecting Forbin’s hold on this key territory. Citadel of the Gate
Located on the western coast, the Natarr garrison at the Citadel of the Gate ensures Peacekeeper control over the Natarrine Sands and secures vital coastal routes. This garrison castle supports operations against bandits and raiders that threaten the region. Elinann Garrison
The Elinann Garrison serves as the primary Peacekeeper stronghold on Teros Minor, overseeing both the city itself and the shipping lanes of the Mabon Channel. With 800 soldiers stationed here, it acts as a reserve force, capable of reinforcing other regions of Teros if needed. Keep of Benann
Strategically positioned in the Crimson Hills, the Keep at Benann monitors the volatile region’s trade routes and serves as a forward operating base for Peacekeeper patrols and anti-raider operations. The garrison also controls several key mining sites, which are vital for the region’s economy. Pandruna
Located on the Challan Peninsula, the citadel of Pandruna remains under the dominion of the ancient Drile sorcerer known as the Scaled Keeper. Its fabled arcane power make it a fortress of notable importance, and one not controlled by Forbin’s forces.
Rural population: 176k
Total population: 762k
History
Following Tekkaron's defeat in 530, Teros became a vassal state of Forbin. The nation was appointed its own Lord Guardian following the death of Rizal in 653. In 1264, the Lord Guardian Zarroth declared Teros an independent state once more. Forbin was unable to prevent this, and was forced to accept the presence of its new neighbour. In the millenium that followed, Teros had a long succession of ruling dynasties. Internal strife arose frequently, and ambitious rulers sought to extend their reach across Helerin. In a series of aggressive moves, Marak III invaded and captured the island of Daros in 1377, and the Mar Mabon Townships in 1384-1386. In 1701, Elinann and the towns of Mar Mabon seceded from Terosian rule. Further loss came in 1722: defeat at Callason (later renamed Five Swords) saw Teros cede control of Daros to Forbin once more. Teros continued to fracture further in the centuries to come, with its towns and cities effectively acting as independent states controlled by warlords or powerful merchants. In 2260, the sorceress Yarivona again united Teros, bringing Elinann back within its borders. Four years later, Teros invaded Forbin, beginning a war that would eventually result in the nation's defeat and its subsequent occupation. See also: History of HelerinGeography
Physical geography
The realm of Teros spans the islands of Teros Major and Teros Minor.Major settlements
See also: Settlements of Teros
The locations of settlements in Teros are determined by access to reliable water sources. Other than Persothan in the swamps of the north, other towns and cities rely on the land's limited rivers or on subterranean wells.
The locations of settlements in Teros are determined by access to reliable water sources. Other than Persothan in the swamps of the north, other towns and cities rely on the land's limited rivers or on subterranean wells.
Olnath
The Terosian capital lies at the mouth of the Oln, where the river reaches Leviathan Bay. It is from here that the occupying Peacekeeper force extends its power across the south of the realm.
Elinann
Elinann is the only major settlement on the island of Teros Minor. This bustling port city sits on the island's southern coast, looking out across the Mabon Channel. For a time, the city was independent of Terosian rule, but the city was returned to the realm as Yarivona rose to power.
Amur Lefra
Amur Lefra is built into a deep crack in the mountains. Its spiralling terraces are cut into the rock face, and many bridges span the yawning chasm below. The city was once the Terosian capital, from whence Tekkaron dominated much of the Helerin Archipelago. The sorceress Yarivona made Amur Lefra her seat of power, and following her defeat much of the city remains in ruins.
Persothan
Free from Peacekeeper rule, the northern city of Persothan is built on many small islands where the water courses of the Festermere eventually converge as they meet the sea. The city is home to many Bulgiss from the surrounding tribal lands.
Kerenna
Kerenna sits atop a gorge over River Resk at the northern edge of the Wastes. The town marks the effective limit of the current Peacekeeper occupation.
Benann
Benann lies in the rocky Crimson Hills. The town is known for its mines and its metalworkers.
Natarr
The western port of Natarr is known for its sizeable Drile population. During the reign of the kings of House Kassammarral, the town was briefly the capital of the realm. Natarr sits on the western coast, on the fringes of the perilous Natarrine Sands.
Power and politics
Governance
In the past, Teros has been a monarchy. The last monarch, Pralla II, was deposed by the sorceress Yarivona in 2248, ending the rule of House Onsharmen. Since the War of Salvation and Yarivona's defeat in 2264, Forbin’s occupation has left much of Teros under the direct control of the Peacekeeper force, with the entire southern region of Teros now administered from the city of Olnath. The Lord High Governor, Menishar Kandrick, holds supreme authority over the occupied territories and represents Forbin’s interests. He resides in the Bronze Palace in Olnath, where he oversees both the governance of the territory and the coordination of military operations. However, day-to-day control of Teros falls to the Grand Commander of the Peacekeepers, Garra Nortis, who directs the occupying forces and implements Forbin’s policies.
Military
Armed forces
Since the War of Salvation, Teros has no military force of its own. The occupying Peacekeepers provide a measure of "protection" in the southern towns and cities. The city of Persothan in the north maintains its own armed force, although this is too small to pose any real threat to Forbin.Fortifications
See also: Castles and towers of Teros Although many were destroyed during the War of Salvation, Teros is still home to many castles and forts. The most important of these are listed below. Bronze PalaceSituated in the capital city of Olnath, the Bronze Palace serves as the administrative and military headquarters for the Peacekeeper occupation in Teros. The largest garrison in Teros is housed here, with over 1,200 soldiers stationed within its fortified walls. Castle Birishad
Located in the southern Redpeaks, Castle Birishad is the regional command centre for Peacekeeper forces. Overseeing the vital road near Dassar Bridge, it enables Captain Olin Yorshan to secure key routes through the mountains and maintain control over the Oln and Andras river valleys. Castle Elchorr
Castle Elchorr controls the vital trade routes near the Natarrine Sands. Despite its nominal Peacekeeper garrison, the castle has become a hub for smuggling and corruption. Castle Gennar
Perched on the southern shores of Leviathan Bay, Castle Gennar is a crucial stronghold for the Peacekeepers in the bay region. The garrison stationed here oversees coastal approaches, protecting Forbin’s hold on this key territory. Citadel of the Gate
Located on the western coast, the Natarr garrison at the Citadel of the Gate ensures Peacekeeper control over the Natarrine Sands and secures vital coastal routes. This garrison castle supports operations against bandits and raiders that threaten the region. Elinann Garrison
The Elinann Garrison serves as the primary Peacekeeper stronghold on Teros Minor, overseeing both the city itself and the shipping lanes of the Mabon Channel. With 800 soldiers stationed here, it acts as a reserve force, capable of reinforcing other regions of Teros if needed. Keep of Benann
Strategically positioned in the Crimson Hills, the Keep at Benann monitors the volatile region’s trade routes and serves as a forward operating base for Peacekeeper patrols and anti-raider operations. The garrison also controls several key mining sites, which are vital for the region’s economy. Pandruna
Located on the Challan Peninsula, the citadel of Pandruna remains under the dominion of the ancient Drile sorcerer known as the Scaled Keeper. Its fabled arcane power make it a fortress of notable importance, and one not controlled by Forbin’s forces.
Other powers
Many Terosians chafe under the heavy hand of the occupiers, and resistance movements - both open and covert - are widespread and growing. While some collaborate with Forbin’s regime to maintain their status or secure resources, others work in the shadows to undermine the occupying forces, hoping to one day see Teros free again. The Dispossessed, a group of young nobles from the realm's former leading families, and the Homelanders (who also despise the Terosian elite) are two such groups.
Diplomacy and foreign relations
As an occupied state, formal interactions with other nations are largely directed by Forbin. Terosians seeking to free their nation from oppression by Forbin work to build strategic alliances with other states and to limit Forbin's own military and economic might through espionage, sabotage, and resistance movements. Since the war, Terosians are still greeted with resentment and suspicion when travelling abroad. Merchants are tolerated in foreign ports, but not welcomed.People
The population of Teros was much reduced as a result of the war.Demographics
Urban population: 586kRural population: 176k
Total population: 762k
Culture
Most people in Teros are born poor, and expect to remain so. Throughout the history of the realm, the common people have largely been at the mercy of great powers. Such agency as people have is used in the governance of daily life and customs. The harsh environment makes the people of Teros reliant on banding together. Those seen as seeking their own glory, or displaying extravagant wealth, are generally frowned upon and will feel little love from local communities. Worker groups are particularly strong, as is a sense of "local" belonging. Outsiders are tolerated at best. Terosians rely on being clear about where they stand, and this includes a level of honesty in communications that outsiders can find a little startling. Resilience and preservation of resources for the long-term, are seen as very important in Terosian culture. The environment demands careful use of water and food, and communities have long been at the whim of capricious and violent powers. Personal restraint (at least in public) is the norm. Since the War of Salvation, some Terosians have found or secured new freedoms. For many though, life is still subject to tight restrictions on movement, expression, or opportunity. The Bulgiss of the Festermere still maintain their own unique tribal culture, although many have integrated to varying degrees in the city of Persothan. In Teros, class distinctions are somewhat fluid, particularly in the context of its recent history of occupation by Forbin. Before the occupation, Teros had a relatively stable class structure, with the monarchy and nobility at the top, followed by a middle class of merchants and artisans, and a lower class of peasants and laborers. However, the occupation has disrupted this, with Forbin officials and military personnel taking prominent positions, creating tension and resentment among the local population. The once clear lines between classes have blurred, as some locals collaborate with the occupiers for personal gain, while others resist. For the people of Teros, the world is a mixture of resentment and respect. They deeply resent Forbin's occupation. Remon is seen as oppressive, embodying the authoritarianism that Teros rejects. The Mar Mabon Townships are a source of disgust due to their corruption, while the Seynan Islanders are envied for their independence and resilience, traits Teros wishes it could reclaim. The League of Mar Miskun, with its cooperative and prosperous nature, is both admired for its success and viewed with suspicion for not taking a stronger stance against external threats.Economics
The economy of Teros is dominated by Forbin's occupation and the diversion of much of its wealth and resources. While its towns and cities are productive, most of its people remain poor. Only a few of the wealthiest or most cunning can thrive here. See also: Economy of Teros
Type
Geopolitical, Country
Capital
Demonym
Terosian
Ruling Organization
Head of State
Government System
Kratocracy
Power Structure
Provisional government
Economic System
Mixed economy
Controlled Territories
Neighboring Nations
Notable Members
Comments