Behavior & Expanded Lore
Origins
Teutaran legends say Alpenwache emerged when the first stone paths were carved into the Alpenheim Peaks. As snowfields collapsed and travelers vanished, the land itself responded—forming a sentinel capable of sensing strain in earth and sky alike.
Alpenwache was not born to rule the mountains, but to hold them together.
Role as a Guardian
Alpenwache does not simply protect—it judges.
It reinforces stable paths and allows passage
It seals unstable routes by freezing soil and snow solid
Those who ignore its warnings often face sudden whiteouts or collapsing trails
It is respected, not worshipped. Alpenwache responds only to conditions, not pleas.
Relationship with Travelers
Guides say Alpenwache’s presence is known when:
Wind quiets
Footing becomes firmer
Snow stops drifting across paths
If Alpenwache walks ahead, the journey is considered safe.
If it crosses the path and vanishes into fog, the route should be abandoned.
Children are taught to watch for its silhouette at dawn—a still shape that does not move with the wind.
Stone Markers & Ancient Paths
Ancient ground markers line forgotten trails throughout the Alpenheim Peaks.
They are believed to:
Guide travelers
Provide reference points for Alpenwache to judge terrain stability
Markers found split cleanly in half are said to mark routes the mountains have reclaimed—sealed by Alpenwache itself.
Seasonal Behavior
Deep Winter: Rarely seen; avalanches are uncommon in its territory
Spring Thaw: Most active, reinforcing land weakened by meltwater
Autumn: Patrols frequently at dusk, closing unsafe routes before snowfall
Alpenwache follows balance, not time.
Modern Teutara
Despite modern railways, tunnels, and cable cars, Alpenwache remains relevant.
Engineers quietly consult old folklore before construction. Projects that ignore known Alpenwache territory often suffer unexplained collapses or delays.
It has earned a modern title:
“The Warden the Mountains Will Not Release.”
Cultural Sayings
Common Teutaran expressions include:
“The path is firm—Alpenwache is watching.”
“Do not rush the mountain; Alpenwache walks slowly.”
“If the snow listens, so does Alpenwache.”
