Cobras
The Cobras are a socially democratic political faction within Teutonia. Cobras believe in the power of the people and that those people empower the elected representatives. They are fiercely loyal to the nation and those who have been chosen by the gods, but they also believe that the people come first.
The Cobra philosophy is one of democracy. As the major opposition to the Viper faction, the Cobras believe that Teutonians should be free to elect the people that govern so they can be removed if found to be wanting. Bloodline is not a sign of intelligence or leadership, so there should be no hereditary right to lead. Nepotism is frowned upon.
Cobras tend to favour passionate leaders who have proven themselves to be committed and capable. Many Cobra leaders have been easily provoked, but time has given them a degree of caution and a sense of cunning that has confused opponents and left them vulnerable. It is not uncommon for a Cobra to question the decision of a leader and expect an explanation for a decision in open debate. Conversely, Cobra military units are renowned for their discipline and breaches of conduct are treated harshly. Cobra politicians tend to be ruthless analysts who will study their opponents closely before destroying them without warning.
The Cobra philosophy is one of democracy. As the major opposition to the Viper faction, the Cobras believe that Teutonians should be free to elect the people that govern so they can be removed if found to be wanting. Bloodline is not a sign of intelligence or leadership, so there should be no hereditary right to lead. Nepotism is frowned upon.
Cobras tend to favour passionate leaders who have proven themselves to be committed and capable. Many Cobra leaders have been easily provoked, but time has given them a degree of caution and a sense of cunning that has confused opponents and left them vulnerable. It is not uncommon for a Cobra to question the decision of a leader and expect an explanation for a decision in open debate. Conversely, Cobra military units are renowned for their discipline and breaches of conduct are treated harshly. Cobra politicians tend to be ruthless analysts who will study their opponents closely before destroying them without warning.
Culture
A Cobra will never accept land and money with a ranked position. This is a position their peers have given them because they have earned it, not because they were the next in line. Monetary reward for position is distributed amongst the people that they rule. A Cobra detests the nobility and the lords that uphold it. They would prefer not to (and often refuse) refer to gentry as "my lord" or "lady" – they prefer to talk to them as equals. A person who has earned their rank has earned a Cobra’s respect. Etiquette means little to a Cobra, although they do refrain from being outright rude. Commoners in Teutonia view a Cobra as being someone who speaks their mind and doesn’t back down. It has been said that when you anger a Cobra you had best be prepared to back your words up with actions.
History
Historically, when the Cobras believed that the Vipers enthroned a callous and cruel king or queen, they would strive to remove them through any means. This led to more than one of the many Serpent Wars. The Cobras have frequently been on the losing side in these wars. When open warfare failed them, they resorted to guerrilla tactics and, with a steadfast refusal to admit failure, they retreated and regrouped over and over again. The common people saw that the Cobras fought for them and provided them with food and succour. Several of the most beloved folk heroes are Cobras. Cobras focused on a concentration of power followed by a series of deadly and ruthless strikes, but they often let passion rule over forethought. When successful, their enemies had no chance against Cobra assaults.
Type
Political, Faction / Party
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