Teuhali Order


Written by Drackzahn

Most nations I know have a standing army, or at least enough money to buy a mercenary one during wartime. But the Teuhali Order is different. Instead of a nation with a strong army, they are an army with a nation. Their whole society is deeply rooted in knighthood and militarism to the point that there are no differences between civil and military structures.
— Politic Advisor from Kete
  The Teuhali Order is a theocratic and militarized nation founded on the legacy of the Atlantean Empire, with its people united in devotion to Hali Teuhali, the Goddess of the Sun and Light. Known for its disciplined military, fortified cities, and diverse population of humans, Sylvan Elves, and borderland tribes, the Order balances faith and strength to maintain its independence and stability. Religious tolerance is a hallmark of the nation, though worship of the Dark Goddess Lia is strictly forbidden. Governed by its Grandmaster and guided spiritually by Hali, the Teuhali Order stands as a resilient and structured society amidst a complex web of alliances and rivalries.

Structure

by Drackzahn
The Teuhali Order is a Military Order where power is split between the nobility, the church of Hali, and the knights. All members of high society are trained knights or were chosen by the goddess Hali Teuhali. All inhabitants, no matter if nobility or commoner, can join the knights and ascend the ranks with enough honor and martial prowess. All ranks can be given to males and females. For easier reading, all ranks are described in male form.  
Grand Master
The Grand Master is the master of the order and an absolute ruler over the nation. He is elected by the 7 Knight Commanders and ruled till his death. Hali Teuhali, the goddess of the Sun and Light, can veto an election, but not dismiss a ruling Grand Master. Most Grand Masters do not rule till their deaths but make space for the next one if they feel they are not fit anymore for the title or ruled long enough. These former Grand Masters are still holding their title in name and receive great respect in society even if they have no direct power left. It is often the case that a new Grand Master will seek guidance from their predecessor. The Grand Master rules the city of Neuburg as their seat of power. When appointed as Grand Master, the person must give up all land, all former titles, and birthrights. Their life is to serve the Order and they can't inherit anything from their family.  
Knight Commander
A knight commander is the ruler over one of the armies of the Order. There are always 7 of them, each ruling from one of the 7 Fortress Cities. These cities are, in order of their size:
  • Altfest
  • Hasfest
  • Suederwall
  • Nurfest
  • Ebnentor
  • Sahifest
  • Waldfest
The armies and the knight commander themself are wearing clothes matching one or two colors to identify them easily. In common tongues, the armies and the commander are often simply referred to as, for example, the black army or the black commander.

Colors and Cities
Fortress Color Cities
Altfest Gold
  • Katzburg
  • Elfburg
  • Halifest
  • Osnaburg
Hasfest Red
  • Swurfurt
  • Petersfurt
  • Mondburg
  • Gudenstad
  • Pikenburg
  • Dunkelwacht
  • Dunkdorf
  • Hasenwacht
Waldfest Blue-Green
  • Kanndorf
  • Schwertburg
  • Helmsted
  • Haldenfest
  • Dikstad
  • Felshein
Ebnentor Deep Blue
  • Hammdorf
  • Sonnenburg
  • Paladhein
  • Dietfurt
  • Dietrichburg
  • Steindorf
  • Birntal
  • Huegelwacht
Suederwall Orange
  • Osnafurt
  • Suederburg
  • Suedstad
  • Suedmol
  • Kapfenburg
  • Silberstein
  • Akhu
  • Steingipfel
  • Mordburg
  • Teutonia
Sahifest Dark Green
  • Sahifurt
  • Klammstad
  • Golddorf
Nurfest Purple
  • Spruntdorf
  • Timberdorf
  • Oterswerde
  • Waalburg
  • Limaburg
  • Petraburg

 


A knight commander rules till their death or voluntarily resigns. Whenever a position becomes free, the Counts of the region will come together and vote for a new Knight Commander. They are free of their choice and may select one of their ranks, a rising star of their commoner knights, or even someone from a different region. The Counts often have a certain amount of influence over the Knight Commander due to this voting system. A Knight Commander is allowed to vote in the election of a new Grand Master and can appoint his Knight Champions for the legions under his command, as well as appoint Castellans for the cities and castles in his territory.  
Knight Champion
Champions of an army are leading one Legion, a group of around 5000 knights. They are directly appointed by the Knight Commander of their army and have absolute authority in their Legion. As most armies only have a handful of legions, each Knight Champion is known in their lands and often beyond that. The Knight Commander uses his Champions to send them on missions or group them for big operations. A Champion can be fired at any time without named reason by their Commander.  
Knight Captain
Under the Champions are the Captains. They lead a group of around 800 Knights, also called a Knight Cohort. Similar to Champions, they follow orders and have authority in their Cohort. All Captains and their Cohorts under a Knight Champion together form the Legion. Captains are appointed and fired by the Knight Champion.  
Castellan
A Castellan is the ruler of a city or castle. They are appointed by the Knight Commander of their region and are given the task of taking care of their given settlement. While a Castellan has authority in their settlement and the villages around it, they also must take care that the taxes flow, the harvest is brought in and that monsters do not harm the citizens. Especially Castellans who rule over areas near the borders of the Order are often calling a Cohort or even a whole Legion to help them with incoming monsters and other enemies. Under a Castellan serves the Guards, often normal soldiers of the area that are more a police force than a real military.  
Hali Teuhali
Hali Teuhali has a unique role in the Order. She is a Goddess and former Grand Master of the Teuhali Order who supports the Order to this day. Instead of ruling over the nation herself, she voluntarily gave up the position of Grand Master and only allowed the Order to give her two privileges. The first one is to block the election of a Grand Master with her Veto. She has only used this twice in the long history. The second privilege is to rule over the Shrinefortress of Hali, a small city that is more comparable to a giant shrine with houses around than a real city. Even with little political power, Hali has great influence in the nation, and her advice is often followed. She tries to avoid acting against people in command and takes no side in conflicts as long as it does not threaten the nation as a whole.  
High Priest
The High Priests of Hali are working as spiritual guidance for their people and often lead one of the churches in the major settlements. They advise others and use the godly magic that they receive from Hali to help the Order. They have no direct political power, but acting against them can easily bring the population against you.  
Count
The high nobility of the Order are the families of a Count. The leader of a high knight nobility is given the title of a count and it is inherited in the family. Counts are not ruling over land, but instead often have small castle mansions in the settlements or in the rural areas. They are ruling over the lower nobility, the Barons, in their area and elect the Knight Commanders. The Nobility Knight families are following the life of Knights and it is common for the daughters and sons of a Count to become knights and serve in one of the armies of the nation. A new Count title can be given by only the Grand Master and if a Count has no ancestor left, the Count title is disbanded.  
Baron
The low nobility of the Order are called Barons. They often have their castle mansions in the rural areas and train recruits into knights. The title of baron is an inherited title and new titles can be given out by the local Count. It is good practice for the sons and daughters of a Baron to serve in the army.  
Knight
Knights are the fighting force of the nation and must swear an oath to protect it and its inhabitants. They stand above the general population and the simple city guards, but have no direct political influence. Knights are wearing some form of cloth above their armor in the color of the army they are part of.

Culture

In the light of Hali, the Ever-Burning Sun,
I swear my heart and sword to the Teuhali Order.
I stand as a shield against the darkness,
A blade against the monsters that would see our people fall.
I swear to guard the weak, protect the innocent,
and strike down the foul creatures that roam beyond the light.
By the rays of Hali, I will never falter,
By her warmth, I will never turn away.
My duty is eternal, my strength unyielding.
For in the light, we are safe.
In the shadow, we shall not be lost.
So I vow, until my last breath, as a servant of the Teuhali and the Daughter of the Sun.

Oath of a Knight of the Order

  The Teuhali Order is not only a military institution but a warrior culture deeply rooted in values of honesty, duty, martial prowess, and loyalty. These virtues are revered above all else, forming the backbone of the Order’s identity and guiding every aspect of life within its borders. In the Teuhali lands, one's profession—be it a farmer, a blacksmith, or a merchant—holds no sway over their duty to the Order. Regardless of their trade or social standing, every citizen is expected to be a warrior at heart.   By law, each individual, regardless of their position in society, is bound to spend one day per week in training, honing their skills with at least one weapon. This commitment to martial readiness is not simply encouraged; it is an essential part of what it means to be a citizen of the Order. Only those who are too young, too old, or too ill are excused from this requirement, as the Order believes that every citizen, from the humblest farmer to the highest noble, must be prepared to stand and fight when the call comes. In this way, the very fabric of Teuhali society is intertwined with the ethos of defense, creating a nation where every hand is ready to defend its borders from the monstrous threats that surround them.   Above all, loyalty and honesty are held as sacred principles in the Teuhali Order. To break an oath, to lie under any circumstance, is considered a betrayal of the very foundation of the Order’s existence. Citizens are expected to uphold the law with unflinching resolve, never swerving from their duty, even in the face of personal hardship. A person who is found guilty of breaking these core tenets—whether through betrayal, deceit, or failure to honor their oaths—faces severe punishment. In the most egregious cases, such as high treason or grievous dishonesty, the punishment can be banishment. Given that the lands surrounding the nation are plagued with monstrous creatures and desolate, dangerous wilderness, banishment is not merely a punishment but often a death sentence.   Despite the rigid expectations, the Teuhali Order is a nation defined by its meritocratic culture. While nobles and commoners live side by side, there is no class divide when it comes to rising through the ranks. Skill and capability are the only true measures of a person’s worth in the eyes of a good commander. This culture of respect for talent and merit ensures that high positions of power and responsibility are earned, not inherited. As such, the Order maintains a deep sense of egalitarian respect among its people. Each individual, regardless of their birth, is judged solely on their abilities and their contribution to the greater good of the nation.   Moreover, the Teuhali Order places great emphasis on inclusion. It does not matter where you come from, what species you belong to, or what sex you are. The only requirement to become a citizen is that you must respect and uphold the laws and traditions of the Order. This inclusive nature has allowed the Teuhali nation to incorporate a diverse array of peoples from all walks of life. Outsiders and foreign species, once they prove their loyalty and dedication to the Order, are welcomed into the fold with open arms. The Teuhali nation is not bound by the limitations of bloodlines or ancient feuds; instead, it is a nation united by the common bond of shared principles and the mutual goal of survival and prosperity. Certain religions, such as the faith of Lia, are exceptions to this inclusive nature and are forbidden inside the nation.   This blend of meritocracy, inclusivity, and unwavering commitment to loyalty and martial strength creates a society where every individual, from the highest noble to the lowest commoner, shares in the same responsibility and duty. In this way, the Teuhali Order is not merely a kingdom or a nation; it is a brotherhood and sisterhood, bound together by the shared resolve to protect their people, honor their gods, and preserve the values that have sustained their civilization through the trials of time.

Public Agenda

The Teuhali Order is a warrior society deeply committed to the defense and preservation of its lands and people. With its roots tracing back to the Atlantean Empire, the Order is shaped by centuries of military tradition and a singular focus on safeguarding its realm from internal and external threats. The Order’s agenda revolves around three main pillars: holding their ground, defending against monsters and invasions, and preventing the return of the Dark Goddess, Lia, along with the reemergence of the Atlantean Empire.  
Holding Ground and Defending Against Monsters
At the core of the Teuhali Order’s mission is the defense of the land it governs. Originally part of the mighty Atlantean Empire, the Teuhali Order was one of many knightly orders that once served under the empire’s banner. After the fall of Atlantis more than two thousand years ago, the Order severed its ties to the crumbled empire and declared its independence. Since then, the Teuhali Order has dedicated itself to defending the realm from both external and supernatural threats.   The territory of the Teuhali Order is surrounded by dangers on all sides. To the north, the ancient ruins of the fallen empire remain, haunted by remnants of Atlantean power and dangerous creatures that lurk within. To the east, a vast, monster-infested forest stretches endlessly, teeming with predators and unnatural beasts. To the west, the wide plains are often home to marauding creatures and occasional invaders seeking to ravage the Order's settlements. To the south, the Order is bordered by a vast desert, its dangers hidden beyond towering mountains that act as a natural barrier but are no less perilous for those who venture too close.   The Teuhali Order is committed to holding its ground against these dangers. Its cities and settlements are built to withstand attacks, with fortified walls, narrow streets, and strategic vantage points. Every citizen, regardless of profession, is required to train in combat and be prepared to defend their home. The Order’s soldiers, knights, and citizens alike are always vigilant, ensuring that the monsters that threaten their borders are repelled and that their lands remain secure.  
Preventing the Return of Lia and the Atlantean Empire
While the immediate threats from monstrous creatures and rogue forces are ever-present, the most insidious danger the Teuhali Order faces is the potential return of Lia, the Dark Goddess, and the reawakening of the Atlantean Empire. Although the Atlantean Empire is long gone, the threat of Lia’s return still looms. Cults and factions that venerate Lia’s memory exists, working to resurrect her and restore the lost empire’s power. Beyond simple cults, there are also the nations of the Free Cities of Lia as well as the Republics of Atlantis that wishes for Lia's return. These groups seek to bring back the destructive might of the ancient empire and reawaken Lia. The Teuhali Order has made it its sworn duty to ensure that this does not come to pass.   The Order actively hunts for remnants of Atlantean artifacts and hidden knowledge, destroying any that could be used to bring about Lia’s return. It also seeks to dismantle any cults or groups attempting to revive the Dark Goddess and restore the empire’s ruinous reign. Should the forces of Lia ever gather strength, the Teuhali Order stands ready to confront them in battle and prevent the world from once again falling into darkness.

History

The Teuhali Order traces its origins back to 1087 BC, founded as a knightly order under the Theocracy of Atlantis, also known as the Atlantean Empire. Initially established as the Atlantean Knight Order of the Teuhali Plains, their primary mission was twofold: to suppress slave uprisings and to guard the sprawling plains of Teuhali. This role established their reputation as a disciplined and capable force in the service of the Atlantean state.   However, the cataclysmic events of 500 BC marked the beginning of the Empire's collapse. With Atlantis in ruins, the order turned its focus inward, dedicating itself to the protection and governance of the Teuhali Plains and their people. Over time, this shift in priorities set the stage for the order's evolution into a more autonomous entity. In 187 BC, the order declared its independence, breaking away from the fractured remnants of the Atlantean Empire and founding their own nation.   Through a series of wars lasting until 107 AD, the Teuhali Order expanded its territories and fortified its holdings. These conflicts not only solidified their borders but also enabled the construction of an extensive network of defense lines, castles, and roads, which remain symbols of their strategic foresight.   The nation underwent a profound transformation in 457 AD when Grandmaster Hali Teuhali reformed the order, officially naming it the Teuhali Order. A figure of immense reverence, Hali ascended to Godhood in 480 AD, becoming the goddess of Sun and Light. In an act of humility, she relinquished her mortal leadership role, dedicating herself to the divine guidance of her people. This deification elevated her as the spiritual cornerstone of the Teuhali Order, uniting the nation under her divine protection.   Challenges persisted over the centuries, including internal strife such as the Time of Arguing Knights (1271-1280 AD), when the death of a Grandmaster triggered a bitter power struggle among Knight Commanders. The nation teetered on the brink of civil war until Hali intervened, forming a neutral force to maintain order and ultimately facilitating the election of a new Grandmaster. This period cemented her role as a stabilizing force in the nation's governance.   In more recent history, the Hidden War of Keta (1831-1852 AD) tested the order's resilience against the southern nation of Kete. Initially marked by raids and skirmishes, the conflict escalated into a protracted siege of Behsin. After a decade of warfare, negotiations led to a treaty in 1852, with Kete ceding its northern regions and agreeing to reparations. This victory reinforced the Teuhali Order's position as a dominant power in the region.

Demography and Population

The Teuhali Order is home to a richly diverse population, reflecting its history of expansion, open society, and integration of borderland tribes. With an estimated population of approximately 13 million souls, the nation thrives as a harmonious blend of cultures and species.  
Population Composition
Humans and Sylvan Elves form the core of the population, their centuries-long coexistence shaping the cultural and social fabric of the Order. Humans, with their adaptability and industrious nature, dominate urban and military roles, while the Sylvan Elves, known for their affinity with nature and long lifespans, are prominent in rural areas, spiritual leadership, and arcane professions.   The nation's openness has fostered significant diversity, with various species inhabiting its borders and urban centers. Tribal groups from the outskirts, including Fae clans, Maldary communities, and bubble bunny groups, have integrated into the Order's society over generations, contributing to its multicultural identity.  
Gender Distribution
The population is evenly split between males and females, fostering balanced representation across societal roles. Both genders actively participate in all aspects of life, from military service to governance and trade.  
Population Centers
The population is concentrated in several key areas, with fortresses serving as hubs of both defense and settlement. The most populous regions include:  
  • Hasfest: The central heartland of the Order, Hasfest is a bustling region where agriculture, trade, and governance converge. Its fertile lands and well-connected infrastructure make it the primary population center.
  • Neuburg: Another significant area, Neuburg is renowned for its sprawling fortifications and vibrant markets. It serves as a cultural and economic beacon in the eastern part of the Order.
 
Rural and Tribal Areas
Outside the central hubs, the population disperses into smaller villages and tribal lands. The tribal areas along the borders are characterized by a mix of cultural traditions and unique species. These regions add to the Order's vibrant demographic tapestry and often act as buffer zones against external threats.  
Cultural Unity
Despite its diversity, the Teuhali Order maintains a strong sense of unity through its shared devotion to Hali, the goddess of Sun and Light. Her influence transcends cultural and species differences, fostering a collective identity that binds the nation together. The people are bound together by their tradition, culture and the swords of their knights.

Military

Remember! With this day, you are no mere commoners or nobles anymore. You are knights of the Order. It will be your blood that protects your families and land. The oath you have taken today lays the path for your deeds to echo through the ages!
— Knight Commander Sigismund, 1221 AD
  The military of the Teuhali Order is split into 10 armies. 7 of these armies are the armies of the Knight Commanders, described under organization, while the remaining three are the Masterguards, the city guards and the urban forces.  

Standing Army

The 7 armies of the commanders are the most known force and the ones that are present on nearly all battlefields of the Order. They are the main army and are organized into Legions, each led by a Knight Champion with around 5000 knights. The amount of Legions per army varies over time but is commonly between 5 and 30. At times of war, the standing army can muster up to 1 million knights. Only soldiers who have taken the oath of a Knight are allowed to serve in these armies. Each major city except the capital has one such army. Most knights are trained also in mounted combat.  
Equipment
While the exact equipment varies per role of the knight, the standard weapon is the long sword and the pike, often combined with a reinforced shield. Bihänder and crossbows are also commonly used. Knights are often wearing metal armor pieces, often in the form of plate armor. The most elite knights are wearing magical-infused armor that makes it even harder to penetrate their defense.  

Masterguards

The guards of the Grand Master are an elite unit of veteran knights that are always around the Grand Master. They are his protectors and their only mission is to secure the survival of him. There are never more than 100 Masterguards at once and only in times of war, they are all in action at once. They follow the grand master into battles and are sworn into offering their own life if it secures the life of the grand master.  

City Guards

The general protectors of the cities are the diverse standing force of the Order. Each village, town, city, castle, and fortress has its city guards, which also let their equipment as well as the intensity of their training vary heavily. Due to the militaristic nature of the Order, one should never underestimate the guards nevertheless, as a city guard of the Teuhali Order can easily be compared to soldiers of standing armies of other nations like the Free Cities of Lia. Most city guards use the pike and shield, as well as a sword sword. In bigger groups, they also have several soldiers with crossbows equipped for range support. The main tasks of the city guards are the police duties and the uphold of safety in the urban areas. They are the first line of defense before the army arrives.  

Urban Forces

The most numerous force of the Teuhali Order are its citizens themselves. Each adult is forced by law to use one day of the week for combat training. Most are training under the local city guard or veteran knights of their area. It is mandatory that each citizen can use the crossbow as well as a melee weapon of their choice. The Urban Force only fights in defensive battles of their villages, towns, or cities when necessary. It is expected of them to hold a line together with the city guards long enough till reinforcements arrive.

Religion

Religion is a central pillar of life in the Teuhali Order, with the majority of its citizens devoted to Hali Teuhali, the Goddess of the Sun and Light. As a former mortal Grandmaster who ascended to Godhood, Hali holds a unique place in the hearts of her followers, embodying both divine wisdom and the enduring spirit of the nation.  
Hali's Influence in Daily Life
Hali's temples are prominent features in nearly every city, often serving dual purposes as places of worship and fortified sanctuaries. These temples symbolize both spiritual and physical protection, reflecting Hali’s role as a guardian deity. The priests of Hali are deeply integrated into the nation's military structure, offering spiritual guidance, healing, and tactical support during campaigns.   While Hali herself resides within the Order, her involvement in daily governance is minimal. She remains a neutral figure in political matters, stepping in only when the nation faces existential threats. Her rare interventions are seen as moments of divine affirmation, further solidifying her role as the ultimate protector of the Teuhali people.  
Religious Freedom and Restrictions
The Teuhali Order is remarkable for its religious tolerance, allowing citizens to worship most deities freely. This inclusivity fosters a diverse spiritual landscape within the nation. However, one critical exception exists: the worship of Lia, the Dark Goddess, is strictly forbidden. Lia is viewed as a threat to the Order's values and stability, and those found praying to her face severe punishment. This prohibition reflects the Order’s commitment to safeguarding its moral and societal foundations.  
The Balance of Faith and Governance
The Teuhali Order’s approach to religion reflects a harmonious balance between faith and statecraft. While Hali is the spiritual cornerstone, her conscious decision to avoid direct governance allows the nation to function with autonomy under its Grandmaster. This separation ensures that faith unites the people without stifling the Order's political and military effectiveness.

Foreign Relations

Holy Queendom of Kete
The Holy Queendom of Kete remains locked in a cold war with the Teuhali Order following the Hidden War of Kete (1831–1852 AD). Despite the cessation of open hostilities, tensions run high, and borders remain closed. Diplomatic exchanges are rare and marked by mistrust, with both nations fortifying their boundaries to prevent incursions.  
Republics of Atlantis
Relations with the Republics of Atlantis are neutral yet uneasy. The two powers engage in moderate trade, but cultural differences and conflicting ambitions keep them at arm’s length. Both view the other as a significant player on the geopolitical stage, competing for influence in the region. The Republics' workship of Lia and republican ideals starkly contrast with the hierarchical values of the Teuhali Order, fueling ideological disdain.  
Free Cities of Lia
The Free Cities of Lia are openly hostile toward the Teuhali Order. Though no formal declaration of war exists, the two powers engage in skirmishes and covert operations. Their geographical distance is the primary deterrent to a full-scale conflict. The Free Cities' workship of Lia and perceived lawlessness stand in direct opposition to the Order’s disciplined and structured society.  
Asak Kingdom
Relations with the Asak Kingdom are a delicate balancing act. While technically at peace, both nations are hostile in sentiment, engaging in heavily regulated trade. The Konos River, which flows southward through both territories, is a critical resource and a frequent source of tension. Both sides maintain strong defenses along the river, wary of each other’s ambitions.  
Faeh Duality
The Faeh Duality lies to the west, beyond the Buny River, in the Woodlands of Faeh. Relations are neutral but wary, with limited trade taking place. The Duality’s playful and unpredictable nature clashes with the Order’s structured ethos, preventing deeper trust. Despite this, both sides avoid outright hostility, valuing stability along their shared border.  
Artifitiocracy of Runa
The Artifitiocracy of Runa is a trade partner, though the relationship is unstable due to the vast Great Sahi Forests separating the two nations. These forests make trade routes perilous, hindering consistent economic cooperation. Both nations share a mutual interest in maintaining peace, but logistical challenges and sporadic disputes occasionally strain relations.  
Tribes of Harak Akar
Relations with the Tribes of Harak Akar are marked by hostility tempered with respect. While skirmishes and conflicts are common, both nations acknowledge each other’s formidable military strength. The Teuhali Order views the tribes as potent barbarians, while the tribes see the Order as disciplined but overly rigid. Despite the hostility, an undercurrent of mutual respect prevents large-scale war.  
Artisians of Kiryoku
The nations have contact from time to time via trade and diplomatic missions of Kiryoku in the Order. The nations do not agree in several fields, like the relationship to Runa. Teuhali has not cut ties but keeps an open eye on the west for any signs of potential agression to both them and their trade partner Runa.

Education

The education system of the Teuhali Order is decentralized, with each region, town, and village responsible for shaping the education of its youth. While there is no unified curriculum, a few key principles and traditions ensure that citizens acquire essential knowledge and skills to contribute to the nation’s well-being.  
Early Education
Education in the Order typically begins in childhood, often conducted by elders, knights, or priests of Hali. These figures serve as community mentors, passing down basic literacy, numeracy, and practical skills. Learning is informal and hands-on, reflecting the unique needs and resources of each community.   Children are taught to read and write, often focusing on scripture, local records, and laws, as well as basic arithmetic for trade and daily life. Priests of Hali frequently include moral and spiritual teachings, fostering devotion to the goddess and a sense of civic duty.  
Martial Training
From their teenage years, every citizen is required to undergo martial training as part of their civic responsibility. This training ensures that all individuals can defend themselves and their homeland in times of need. Each teenager learns to wield at least one melee weapon, such as a sword or spear, and to use a crossbow proficiently. Knights of the Order often oversee this training, instilling discipline and fostering loyalty to the nation.  
Regional Variations
The decentralized nature of education means that its quality and focus vary widely across the Order. Urban centers, such as Hasfest and Neuburg, tend to offer more structured learning opportunities, often incorporating advanced topics like history, strategy, and commerce. In contrast, rural and tribal areas prioritize practical knowledge, including farming, craftsmanship, and survival skills, alongside martial training.

Infrastructure

The Teuhali Order, renowned for its unyielding commitment to protecting the people from the dangers that lurk in the shadows, has developed a unique and highly effective style of architecture. Every structure, street, and city within the order's domain reflects the fundamental values of defense, resilience, and preparedness. Built with the constant threat of monstrous creatures and external invaders in mind, the buildings and settlements of the Teuhali Order are designed to withstand siege and combat, ensuring that even in the darkest of times, the light of Hali—and the Order—remains steadfast.  
A Fortress in Every Stone
The cornerstone of Teuhali architecture is its fortress-like design. From the tallest citadels to the humblest homes, every building is constructed with durability and defense at its core. Thick, reinforced walls of stone or hardened timber form the outer layers of most structures, with layers of smaller, tightly fitting bricks that form an intricate defense against both physical and magical assault. Roofs are often sloped and covered with heavy stone or metal, ensuring that nothing can easily scale or breach them.   Windows are narrow, slit-like openings, just wide enough to allow light to pour through but small enough to prevent a large object—or an enemy—entering. These defensible windows allow defenders to see approaching threats and fire arrows or magical projectiles with relative safety. The upper levels of many buildings often feature battlement-style parapets, where archers and spellcasters can take their positions and cover the streets below.   Even residential areas are built to be defensible. In times of danger, citizens can retreat into their homes and barricade the entrances, transforming their dwellings into secure refuges. In a true test of design, entire neighborhoods are capable of becoming self-contained strongholds, with multi-layered entrances and hidden passageways that allow people to escape if need be, or trap invaders should the worst occur.  
Streets That Serve as Defenses
The layout of the cities and towns within the Teuhali territories further emphasizes the Order’s strategic approach to defense. Instead of wide, easily accessible roads, the streets are intentionally narrow and winding, designed to slow the movement of invaders and make it easier to fortify key areas. This labyrinthine approach is particularly effective against large, lumbering monsters that may not be able to maneuver well in tight spaces, forcing them into kill zones where defenders can strike from all directions.   Main roads often end at defensible locations—gates, towers, or fortified squares—where the populace can retreat if necessary, and where heavy fortifications are concentrated. The careful positioning of these bastions of defense ensures that even if an enemy breaches the outer walls of a town or city, there are still multiple layers of defense to fight through. The streets themselves are often paved with stone and occasionally littered with traps, hidden mechanisms, and chokepoints that would make any invader’s advance slow, costly, and perilous.   The concept of the “fortified neighborhood” extends beyond the individual homes and reaches into the design of the neighborhoods themselves. Streets might be built in such a way that defenders can take advantage of the elevation or specific terrain, whether through natural hills or artificial structures like raised platforms or city walls. Even bridges or gates are built with defensible positions, allowing defenders to control movement into and out of the city, or to collapse key routes in times of need.  
Strategic Defense in the Countryside
Even the more rural and isolated outposts of the Teuhali Order, where the land is wild and untamed, are designed with a strategic outlook. Villages and small hamlets are typically built in clusters, each surrounded by defensive palisades or low stone walls that create an organized, defensible perimeter. Watchtowers rise at regular intervals, offering high vantage points from which to spot approaching threats, while the land around settlements is often cleared or cultivated to give defenders the advantage of sightlines and early warning.   Fields and farmlands are often divided by small, easily defensible walls or trenches, and crops are planted in such a way that they can be quickly abandoned or harvested in case of a siege. In times of danger, these smaller fortifications can be reinforced, and the people can retreat into more fortified locations.  
The Presence of the Sun
Above all, Teuhali architecture does not forget the guiding light of the Order: the sun. While the buildings may be designed for defense, they are never without a sense of reverence for the goddess Hali, the goddess of Sun and Light. Many key structures—such as temples, barracks, and citadels—are designed to channel the light of the sun, not only for the spiritual well-being of the people but also as a literal weapon. Towers are often topped with reflective mirrors or crystal prisms that concentrate sunlight, creating blinding rays to ward off monsters and intruders. Certain temples are even built with open rooftops to allow sunlight to pour directly into their chambers, symbolizing the ever-present protection of Hali.   The spiritual element of their architecture also ties into the defensive strategies. In the heart of many cities lies the Sanctuary of the Sun, a grand temple where warriors take their oaths and where the Order's sacred artifacts are kept. These temples are both a place of prayer and a refuge during times of crisis, where divine magic and the blessing of Hali can be called upon to strengthen the city’s defenses.

Our swords are always sharpened

Maps

  • Teuhali Plains
Founding Date
1087 BC, Independence in 187 BC
Type
Geopolitical, Country
Capital
Alternative Names
Atlantean Knight Order of the Teuhali Plains
Predecessor Organization
Training Level
Professional
Demonym
Teuhali
Government System
Meritocracy
Power Structure
Federation
Economic System
Command/Planned economy
Gazetteer
Teuhali Plains with
  • Neuburg
  • Altfest
  • Nurfest
  • Sahifest
  • Ebnentor
  • Suederwall
  • Hasfest
  • Waldfest
Currency
Teu Coins - A small coin made from iron. Split into 3 sizes:
  • Teu Hali - Big Iron Coin, worth 100 Teu Mi
  • Teu Mi - Medium Iron Coin, worth 100 Teu Kle
  • Teu Kle - Small Iron Coin, worth around a euro/dollar
Location
Official Languages
Notable Members
Related Species
Hali Teuhali
Character | Mar 30, 2024
Lia
Character | Oct 18, 2022
Atlanesis
Geographic Location | Dec 27, 2023
Theocracy of Atlantis
Organization | Oct 24, 2022



Cover image: by Drackzahn
Character flag image: by Drackzahn

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