Knights of Tezoth

The regions of Tezoth and their rulers

Ravnland

Despite its vast territories, Ravnland is known as one of the poorest regions of Tezoth. These lands are famed for their dense forests, full of game and plants useful in medicine, and some types of wood cannot be found in other parts of the kingdom at all. The capital, Duskwing, is distinguished not only by its ancient history but also by its eye-pleasing and heartwarming Gothic architecture. It would seem there is a ready recipe for prosperity. So what is the matter? Historians and culturologists agree that the reason lies in the mentality of the local inhabitants. No matter what potential an enterprising outsider sees in these lands, its development would disrupt the accustomed way of life of the people who have lived here for many generations. Time and again I have heard profit-hungry businessmen lament this fact.

But this way of thinking — this way of life so unusual for some — can itself be called one of the treasures of this region. I am sure lovers of philosophy will agree with me on this, for it was Ravnland that gave Tezoth such works as "On Love" by Liv MiAllen, "A Moment of Peace" by Getta Lost, "The Blackest of Holes" by Valiy Nasinoff, and "Staring at the Ceiling" by Inna Somnia. The musings of these and many other Ravnlanders have made a huge contribution to the development of modern philosophical thought, and without their inherent mentality, this would not have been achieved.

In military terms, things are also not so clear-cut with Ravnland. Although the regular army of this region is known as one of the weakest in the entire kingdom, one should not underestimate the military training of the warriors of Blexol or the swordsmanship of the members of the Order of the Fallen, and the forested terrain, so familiar to the locals, is perfectly suited for guerrilla warfare. Moreover, these same forests are the natural habitat of pegasi, granting their riders unparalleled maneuverability both on the battlefield and when relocating from one strategic position to another.

As for the ruler of Ravnland, to some extent she can be compared to the third Deus, from whom she traces her lineage. Even despite the difference in worldviews. If Satanid the Wrathful is the most discussed ruler of Tezoth, then Carnea Caicunia Iretiret is the most discussed lord of the modern era, whose reputation precedes her and gives rise to the most varied gossip. Nevertheless, it does not seem to bother the ruler of Ravnland herself in the slightest. The methods of control laid down by the dynasty's founder, undoubtedly inspired by the example of his father, Carnea Caicunia Iretiret has mastered to perfection. One could argue that in this she has even surpassed her distant ancestor, given that she does not possess the same resources he once did.

Teneressa

Some call this region the Pearl of Tezoth, and it is easy to understand why. Beautiful landscapes, captured on the canvases of many artists, here harmoniously combine with exquisite architecture and kind, welcoming people. Teneressa could be called one of the main centers of Tezoth tourism, if not for the strict restrictions for guests, few of whom are allowed further than Villiris, created specifically for such purposes.

Such restrictions may confuse some, especially those wishing to see the local landscapes in person rather than hear about them secondhand. Even the most incomparable masterpiece of painting cannot convey the sound of the surf and the feeling of the wind playing with your hair. But are these measures so surprising, given the endless flow of tourists? It affects daily life. It affects the approach to business. It brings a hustle so alien to the inhabitants of Teneressa into their everyday routine.

But there are other opinions on this matter. That the ban on outsiders entering these lands is not out of care at all, but to conceal some dark deeds taking place here. To hide flaws and shortcomings so as not to shatter the ideal picture so advantageous in the eyes of residents of other regions. And only those who are certain not to blab about these secrets are allowed further. But this all runs up against the fact that exit from the region is free for residents. So, in my opinion, it all sounds more like unsubstantiated gossip.

But Teneressa is famous not only for its beauties; it is also a major supplier of medicines and some household items familiar to us, as well as the main supplier of cheeses with an amazing flavor palette and the only place in the kingdom where hydras are bred. Its contribution to the culture of Tezoth cannot be denied either.

This region does not lag behind even in military affairs. In addition to the previously mentioned hydras, which one can hardly call anything other than living siege weapons, one can also find wyverns and pegasi here, albeit in smaller numbers than in some other regions. The warriors are no match for the regional steed either — few fighters can match the speed of the sword masters from Densec or the endurance of the border guards from Fantasia, who tirelessly stand their watch, while the proper positioning of the eponymous fortress, combined with the landscape, allows them to hold off even significantly superior attacks from the land.

Maria Teneressa-Logg gives the impression of a fair and responsible ruler who cares about the fate of her subjects and is not inclined to sit idly by. Words of evil tongues have reached my ears, but such complaints sound somewhat strange to me — it is quite logical that a lord would put the well-being of his subjects first.

Pharedgia

A long-suffering region with every reason to dislike the mainland part of Tezoth. Once a place of exile for criminals, over the years this island transformed into an independent state, initially. It is hard not to wonder whether the harsher orders of the age of darkness had a positive impact, if not on the formation of local statehood, then at least on its strengthening. Only relatively recently, when the organization of the local inhabitants became known to Tezoth, was it decided to include the island in the kingdom.

Some may call this act a reunification, for the inhabitants of this region originate from the southern part of the mainland, but there are reasons to believe that everything is much more prosaic and the motive was quite different — a desire to secure the rear from a potential enemy. Especially in the context that Pharedgians cannot boast the same freedoms as other Tezothians.

Despite the sad history of this island, I find its culture and history quite fascinating. A state of exiles, fenced off from the outside world and building something new from scratch brick by brick? A bizarre interweaving of disparate customs, giving birth in their symbiosis to something completely new? I bet there are beliefs and philosophical movements there that the sages of Oshi have yet to document.

Pharedgia can rightfully be called one of the most impregnable regions of the kingdom, due to its specific location. The blockade is also complicated by the mountainous landscape of the island, in whose cliffs numerous wyverns dwell. One could argue that their population here exceeds even that of Lunia. Anyone who dares to blockade this island will quickly find their fleet engulfed in the flames of these fire-breathing reptiles.

It is no coincidence that capturing the island required the military genius of Stratos Genburry, who is now the lord of Pharedgia. Being not only a gifted strategist but also one of the kingdom's best scientists, under his leadership he has turned the new region into one of the kingdom's medical centers. There is no doubt that thanks to his efforts, the Tezoth of the future awaits many glorious scientific discoveries.

Kabocha

A quiet and pleasant region, which is the agricultural center of Tezoth. Life here is measured, and little in these lands is valued higher than hard but honest labor. From here come new breeds of dogs and steeds unmatched in other regions of the kingdom. But the most amazing aspect of local life is rightfully the pumpkins. I don't know how local farmers managed to grow such dangerous varieties of such a seemingly harmless treat, but the results of these labors are truly impressive.

This makes one wonder: what other surprises might such an idyllic land hold? And are these wondrous properties solely the fruit of selective breeding, or some ancient magic that once saturated the forests that became Kabocha and has now manifested itself in such a bizarre form? Once I came across a book by Eliy Hekk, according to which a coven of witches once lived on these lands, which fell into decline with the development of civilization and is now almost forgotten. Alas, I found no further confirmation of this claim in other works, but I stumbled upon a number of others, no less amazing theories about mythical creatures that supposedly once lived there.

According to gossip, such is Lord Grimban Odolerus: either he is a vampire, or the owner of a steel body, and some say that this noble man is actually a pumpkin god who descended to the mainland. In reality, he is one of the most worthy lords, in my eyes, who is united in heart and spirit with his people. And the rumors surrounding his imposing figure are mere speculation, which should not be given undue importance.

Silverdan

Once, one of the oldest city-states of the south and the last of them to join Tezoth, then and now Silverdan is a beacon of knowledge for the entire south. Located on the very border of the kingdom, it has survived both the clash with Tisia and the fierce onslaught of monsters from the Crater of Regret, thereby embodying humanity's unquenchable desire to understand not only themselves but also the world around them.

Whatever field of scientific inquiry interests you — in these lands you will find both works on the subject and passionate researchers, especially in the universities of Cortina. It is in the lands of this region — in Cronac — that the best hospital in the kingdom is located, while those wishing to get acquainted with foreign culture can easily do so in Maliknonia. In Tasanica, it is believed — and not without reason — that body and mind are deeply interconnected. Neglect of the former will undoubtedly affect the latter — and vice versa. If you just want to breathe fresh air, without unnecessary fuss, and indulge in philosophical musings, there is no better place than Pino with its quiet and peaceful streets, where no one will disturb you in vain.

But closest to my heart is Lamente — a city that embodies the unbending will of its inhabitants. Brave, self-sufficient people, confident in their abilities and seeing the world as it is — without unnecessary panic, but also without the rose-colored glasses typical of natives of peaceful regions. Day after day we encounter the spawn of Iphilla and fight them off. We study them. We make plans and train on how best to counter these monsters. In my opinion, every Tezothian would benefit from visiting here at least once in their life, to personally know and see the price of their peaceful existence. Ultimately, this too is knowledge capable of turning someone's perspective on things.

The ruler of Cortina and my liege, Lord Kaleido Cartridge, is deservedly known as the brightest mind of the modern era, whose thoughts are constantly occupied with lofty matters. In all my life, I have never met a person more erudite in the widest range of various issues and scientific fields. With his entire being, he embodies the spirit of Silverdan.

Heroes' Village

A more fitting name could not be found. The inhabitants of this village can serve as an example to many citizens of Tezoth. Proud, brave, and accustomed to relying on their own strength, they did not bury their heads in the sand upon learning of the threat, but decided to fight it themselves, fully understanding that the problem of the crater, so distant for some Tezothians, concerns everyone. They did not bow to their influential neighbors either, stubbornly defending their independence. Some will call this region small and insignificant. In the context of geopolitics, that would indeed be an accurate description. But that is not the strength of Heroes' Village — its strength lies in its people, who are true to themselves and have thereby earned recognition. And their current lord, Galmeus Draxlaüs, is a match for them. Perhaps, for me personally, this is one of the most inspiring regions.

Florenzan

Even in ancient times, before the founding of Canamia and Tezoth, the future Florenzan and then Flowers preferred trade and diplomacy to military affairs. It does not seem that after centuries the priorities of the region, now the golden financial heart of the kingdom, have changed. Although the original city-state eventually lost its influence, giving way to Matricaria, the traditions it laid down are alive to this day, and Florenzan itself is one of the richest regions, where people from all over the kingdom flock in search of wealth.

It is hard to deny the local businessmen's ability to amass and increase their fortunes. At the same time, it is hard to shake the thought: "Is this not an end in itself for many of them?" Sometimes there is a feeling that capital accumulation serves not as a means to realize some distant dream or ensure a comfortable existence for one's loved ones in this harsh and changeable world, but as an attempt to show colleagues that you are the richest and most talented among them. Having seen this competitive aspect of doing business at least once, it becomes difficult to turn a blind eye to it.

It seems to me that Lord Gitgood Flowersens is also aware of this. Undoubtedly, the Indominus founded by his efforts can be called one of the main pillars of Florenzan's influence in modern times — I am sure that each of us has crossed paths with the selfless graduates of this institution at least once. Someone might wonder: "But can't the Sillians use their magic for personal enrichment? Doesn't that go against the ideals of Florenzan?" But this, it seems to me, is one of the main ideas of the golden lord. By laying down such traditions in his lands and raising a new generation of Sillians, he not only does a service to both Florenzan and Tezoth as a whole, but also directs the region's development in a desirable direction — one in which its inherent competitive aspect does not take an ugly and undesirable form.

Lord Gitgood Flowersens himself is a living symbol that a tenacious business acumen and the ability to earn money do not contradict the philosophy of Sillia the Benevolent as such, as long as these skills are used as a guarantor of universal prosperity. This is evident not only in his views but also in his altruistic actions.

Lunia

One of the most impregnable, yet at the same time most fascinating regions of Tezoth, which is not so easy to reach without wings. The dragonids living here are perhaps among the happiest inhabitants of the mainland, being endowed not only with considerable strength, endurance, and a strong immune system, but also with an enviable ability to soar freely in the skies.

Evil tongues like to cite the relatively modest scientific achievements of the locals as an example, calling it the price for the aforementioned innate gifts, but is that really the case? Do you need such advanced medicine if your body does not break and your organism easily overcomes any poisons and diseases? Do you need advanced metallurgy if the blow of your hand is more destructive than a blade forged by human hands? It seems to me that it is primarily the life experience and way of life of the Lunians that are at play here, rather than anything else.

Lord Druugdrdrag is one of the most vivid embodiments of the primordial power for which the Lunians are so famous. Formidable and mighty, his mere presence commands respect. They say that with his bare hands he can break the sharpest sword and pierce the strongest shield, and looking at Lord Druugdrdrag, I am inclined to believe it.

Gildaria

Currently, the largest of the regions of Tezoth and the strongest military machine of the kingdom. There are many reasons for this: high organization, military traditions rooted in the past, and even access to wyverns and pegasi so useful in military affairs. This is also facilitated by the developed industry of Grit, as well as the finances flowing from Mayre, Legne, and Machiat. Gildaria is certainly not poor and knows how to manage its natural resources.

In times past, the gaze of the proud Gildarian warriors was directed outward — at the spawn of Iphilla and the enemies of mankind. It would have been an honor to meet side by side with them the blight that had settled in the center of the mainland and uproot it completely. Alas, modern trends have changed their perspective. Having forgotten about the true enemy, modern Gildaria is more interested in expanding its territories. Ultimately, this led to what was once unthinkable and, in this form, the first redistribution of lands in history: Tempesta and Novelette, once belonging to Silverdan, became part of it, while Sanbornia separated into a separate region.

The consequences of such actions are already noticeable, especially for the inhabitants of the aforementioned cities and those who actively oppose the northern threat. It was in Tempesta, for example, that the study of unique poisons characteristic of the monsters of Regret was conducted. The geopolitical picture of Tezoth has changed dramatically. The rules of the game have also changed, and tension hangs in the air. What has happened once will undoubtedly happen again. One can only hope that the spark once ignited does not turn into a flame that will consume the entire kingdom.

It is hard to deny Lord Adalard Grim a sharp mind and talents capable of supporting his ambitions. It is no coincidence that he is known as the best of modern generals, and his contribution to the campaign of Coimaji the Magnificent can hardly be overestimated. And yet, I cannot agree with his current policy — the enemy entrenched in the crater is not asleep and is a problem for all of Tezoth.

Sanbornia

The most striking example of how the politics and views of a lord can dramatically change the appearance and reputation of his domains, Sanbornia is now the main stronghold of the Aconian faith. However, in contrast to the Aconism of visitors from Margel, here the worship of the sun goddess takes on a much louder and more aggressive character. Debates about whether this is a branch of the faith brought from the flying clan, or merely a previously unseen form of reverence for Aconia, are currently one of the favorite topics of Oshi's theologians.

By the will of the newly minted lord of Sanbornia, Aconism has de facto become established as the official religion. An idea new and alien to Tezoth as a state. One with which I cannot agree. A faith that follows from a person's lack of choice cannot be called faith, and a truth that captivates the human heart it will never become.

Among the lords, Man of Sanbornia is a unique example, given his rise to power. Once a simple mayor, without particular glory, lineage, or military merits behind him, overnight he took up arms against his liege and soon became the ruler of a previously non-existent region. The first such case in the entire history of Tezoth, and one can only hope it is the only one. The past of this mysterious and unpredictable ruler is shrouded in an aura of secrecy, and little is known for certain about him — mostly only his martial skill and fierce faith in Aconia. And even the latter is subject to rumors among the people. In particular, that it is all just a mask for the public and a way to secure loyal followers, hiding behind a divine name.

Oshi

The land of sages and philosophers. If a rebellious soul wishes to find a truth close to itself, then it is here that its path will lead. But even for people who are firmly convinced of the solidity of their views, a visit here will be useful. Oshi is a treasure trove of musings and the most diverse worldviews, some of which are now remembered only by great enthusiasts and a few adherents. Familiarizing oneself with them, as well as with the works of local scholars, is one of the best ways to broaden one's horizons, even if nothing from the local diversity appeals to the guest or touches the strings of their soul.

I find the health-improving methods introduced by Lord Diramis Sutrtmoln into local life to be a correct and useful solution. A healthy mind should indeed be in a healthy body, and I share the desire to see future generations of Tezoth strong, brave, and standing firmly on their own feet. So that they not only know for themselves what is close to their hearts but can also defend their ideals.

Miku

A young region, as if hewn from rock by the unyielding Lord Dirk Ryderson, who thereby also resolved a slippery geopolitical issue. Although Miku does not yet have a loud reputation, and its territories are modest, it has a guarantee of success in the form of its proud and persistent local inhabitants. I am sure that as long as the people living here are not indifferent, this region will still have an opportunity to prove itself.

Mighty and reliable, like a spire soaring into the sky, Lord Dirk Ryderson has earned himself a name not only through his loyalty and phlegmatic character but also through the absence of any significant enemies. In view of this, as well as the history of Miku's emergence, it is fair to call the unshakable lord one of the pillars of stability in modern Tezoth.

Estellia

Against the backdrop of other city-states of ancient times, which have preserved their traditions to one degree or another, the formerly known as Bright Estellia has changed the most. Once the religious center of the south — a role now fulfilled by Oshi — it is now filled with adherents of a secular, though likely formed under the influence of the religious traditions of bygone times, teaching — Estellian aesthetics. Perhaps, for me, this is one of the most fascinating examples of cultural development among the regions of the kingdom.

The norms of education here are much stricter than in some other regions, but I cannot say that I disagree with such methods. Although this leaves young people with less free time, the result is people who are versatile and well-informed about the areas to which their talents are predisposed. Given how often some youngsters get lost and, as a result, drift through life without finding a beloved occupation, such an approach can hardly be overestimated.

Strictness is also expressed in other aspects of life. The ability to present oneself and behave worthily in society is the duty of every Estellian. Non-compliance with the norms is punished — sometimes quite harshly. The fear of inevitable punishment is undoubtedly an effective tool. But it is hard to deny that its fruits feel cold and sterile, while the pursuit of an impeccable reputation, which is placed at the forefront here, inevitably kills sincerity. I cannot say that I agree with all the norms of behavior either. In some cases, coercion does not solve the problem but only exacerbates it — even if it is hidden from prying eyes behind heavy doors.

I have heard a lot about Asalia Sarseid III, and exclusively in a positive light. About her talents as a ruler. About her breathtaking beauty. About her inherent sense of justice. And, of course, about her martial skill. Asalia Sarseid III is popular among the people — both within Estellia and beyond — which speaks highly of her.

Archipelago of Furious Waves

The inhabitants of this region, once an important point in the expansion of Coimaji the Magnificent, are as close as ever to the sea element. A number of its inhabitants — mizuki, tritons, and lizz — are even capable of breathing comfortably underwater. Something that should certainly not be underestimated — under the leadership of someone greedy for profit, they could easily become the terror of any coastal cities. Fortunately, these abilities are much more often used for more peaceful purposes: fishing, pearl diving, and rescuing drowning people. The local natives are also unmatched in searching for sunken ships.

To the best of their ability, the human population of the archipelago tries to keep up with their scaly neighbors. Where the latter are incomparable in underwater travel, the former have achieved mastery in traveling across the azure surface, being unmatched sailors and brave explorers of the world's sea expanses. Their ability to withstand the whims of the fickle oceans cannot but inspire respect, and I am sure that in the future these brave men and women will become the key to new geographical discoveries.

I cannot fail to note the fighting style of the archipelago's natives, captivating with its grace. Not everyone can not only deftly evade an enemy blow but also turn the vulnerabilities revealed by the opponent to their advantage. And, even more so, achieve this in such an impressive and spectacular form.

The ability to establish order and organize such an effective region in its field speaks volumes about its ruler — Nilcha Imechoh. She managed not only to solve the problem of possible friction with the natives, turning their abilities to the service of Tezoth, but also skillfully used the resources available on the archipelago.

Albus

The local system of orders is a very interesting and unusual, yet extremely effective innovation, allowing every inhabitant of Albus not only to hone their skills but also, often, to acquire useful connections in the process. There are plenty of heroic warriors, diplomats, and even archaeologists here. Born in these lands, any person will surely find an order to their liking.

Perhaps precisely because of this sense of camaraderie instilled from an early age, this region is also distinguished by strong cohesion and teamwork. As someone who has not only seen the knights of Albus in action but also fought against them in the melee, I can only express sincere respect for them. Striving to prove the strength of their lands, they acted as one.

Undoubtedly, this is also the merit of the ruler. It is evident that Berseriy Secretgarten knows not only how to effectively use the talents of his subjects but also how to unite them with his majestic image radiating authority and charisma.

Sordgard

One of the noblest regions of Tezoth and its strongest shield, tested by centuries of struggle against the spawn of Iphilla. The lands of the most worthy warriors, who day after day hold back the enemy of mankind with their own strength. Like Lamente, I believe that visiting these lands would benefit any Tezothian, for the mighty inhabitants of Sordgard are one of the guarantees of the kingdom's stability.

At the same time, thinking about the future, I sometimes feel anxious for this region. Not at all because I doubt the strength of its warriors — quite the opposite, the role of the kingdom's defenders has long and firmly taken root as one of the key aspects of their identity. But what will happen in the future if we finally find a way to deal with the monsters of the crater? In a future where the borders of Tezoth shift. How will Sordgard change under such conditions? Given their indomitable spirit, I want to believe that they will find a way. Perhaps, if the great victory occurs in our lifetime, it will be paved by one of the daughters of the venerable Lord Afortek Transend.

Lord Transend himself, being a living legend among warriors in general and northern defenders in particular, cannot evoke anything but sincere respect from me. He is one of the most worthy men of this era.

Lorelei

The fiery heart and industrial center of the entire kingdom's military machine. It is hard to find equipment better than that forged in one of the local smithies. The locals understand the simple truth that for a warrior, a sword and armor are more than just tools. They are faithful friends and comrades you can always rely on. And if you take care of them properly, it can save your life more than once.

Despite its location far from the borders, Lorelei and its inhabitants make an invaluable contribution to the defense of the kingdom's borders. The creations of their hands have slain many monsters and taken no fewer blows that would be fatal in any other situation, and the tactics popular in Eivaltz perform excellently against the monsters of Regret.

Canonchan Gurentses is a master of his craft. Equally gifted as a warrior and a politician, he perfectly understands the hearts and aspirations of ordinary soldiers. A worthy ruler of a worthy region.

Olivus

The source of Tezoth, from where Eidos the Iron once began his journey. Having eventually become the central region of the kingdom, Olivus is distinguished by a quiet and measured life, guaranteed both by its location and its historical status. An excellent place for both rest and a settled life, it is nevertheless not without its secret, once brought here by mysterious missionaries of Aconia.

Another ruler, having obtained this knowledge, would have established mass production of the wondrous weapons from the sky city. It would have become a symbol of power, strength, and prosperity. Here, however, this did not happen, and the secret of manufacturing pistols is still strictly guarded by the masters of Oliver. The concerns are wise and logical, but at the same time it is hard to deny that such weapons would be useful to Tezoth in its fight against Iphilla. To hold back its spawn.

Moreover, secrets of this kind inevitably come to light sooner or later. Whether it be the spy of an ambitious ruler, a mind-bewitching witch seeking to sow chaos, the inquisitive mind of a craftsman who has gotten his hands on a curiosity, or even the banal human factor, sooner or later the secret of firearms will spread beyond Olivus. The side that learns it before the others will gain an undeniable advantage, but, in the end, knowledge made public will change the approach to warfare across the entire continent.

The local ruler — Ciel Pinkoflight — with her appearance and manners resembles the quiet and cozy region she rules. She seems to me a sincere possessor of a pure heart, who cares entirely for her lands and to whom her subjects respond in kind.

Canamia

Grandiose in its splendor, the heart of Tezoth, Canamia can boast the most majestic architecture in the entire south — the beauty of any palace inevitably pales at the mere sight of the mighty, soaring walls of Calamention. A symbol of the unity and greatness of the kingdom, Canamia does not suffer from a lack of people and resources, attracting not only inhabitants of the south but also foreign guests. Among the people, some call Canamia the "city of dreams," and there is some truth to this — it almost blinds the eyes with its abundance, and everyone will find something for themselves in it.

It is hard to predict what exactly the future holds for Tezoth. But I am confident that under the leadership of Deus Mariarnelia, the kingdom awaits many more glorious achievements. Her glorious father once managed to push back the monsters of the crater, inflicting one defeat after another upon them. I want to believe that in this era of the reign of the new queen of kings, Tezoth will be able to finish the work he once began and, setting aside strife, achieve a final victory over the threat entrenched in the center of the continent.