| Category | Structures |
| Continent | Brucrumus |
| Region | Lands of Purity |
| Built | 17 Brightstar 1540 |
| Map | Adellum |
The Great Canal of Thequas was constructed for both strategic protection of Milthian and to serve as an irrigation and transportation conduit for the inhabitants of the locale.
The canal originates from the small, shallow, man-made lake within the fortress of Thequas, known as the Tears of Athena, named after the sorrow of the champion Sir Galtrag. It serves numerous functions, including as a source for the canal, a means of transport and shipping, a source of drinking water, a garden park, and a defensive feature. The lake is the vital heart of Thequas.
The lake itself measures just under a mile across and was formed through arduous labor, a Spade of the Titans, and multiple dig spells. It rests on the plateau overlooking the Scar of Atlas, and its runoff forms captivating waterfalls cascading into the great depths. The true source of its water is unknown, but rumored to be a divine gift to sustain the sizable lawful good population of Thequas. On the westerly shore of the lake lies the Glorious Keep and the start of the canal. Within the lake itself lies the floating battery of Ole' Faithful II, a replica of the original legendary cannon. The massive weapon was floated and anchored to the middle of the lake under a design by Himril Girderhead.
The water provides the essential recoil buffer, allowing the mighty cannon to fire great distances without compromising the integrity of any structure upon which it rests. Even targets located off the coasts of Milthian can be reached, extending 10 miles into the Pearl Sea.
The canal extends through to the city of Milithian at its terminus, where it empties into the vast Pearl Sea. Along its entire 12-mile length, the canal maintains a minimum width of 60 feet and a depth ranging from 30 to 40 feet. There are 44 locks situated along its course. The salinity of the canal's waters varies depending on proximity to the coastline, but it is predominantly composed of the abundant fresh water supplied by the endless Tears of Athena. During periods of drought, the canal's waters are utilized for irrigation of the surrounding farmlands. Trade flourishes along the entire route, serving as a vital source of commerce for the nation and the numerous towns and villages located at the various locks and stopovers. Travel along the canal is relatively slow, as full sail is prohibited and horse or mule towing is often necessary.
Security along the canal is taken exceedingly seriously due to the paramount importance of the trade route, the immense value of the goods in transit, and the vulnerability to assault across such an expansive area. Segments of the canal are fortified with walls and intermittent guard towers vigilantly monitoring the passage. The surrounding farmland is reserved by the government as a pension for recently retiring soldiers and officers seeking to return to domestic life after service, further enhancing the inherent security of the immediate region.
Ship traffic, security, and customs along the canal are managed by the Malacost Trade and Customs Authority. This influential agency maintains an equal standing within the democratic governance as any of the armed forces. Presently, the minister of this authority is a lawful good minotaur - Crooked Horn, or simply Horn - so named not for his demeanor, but for the single, askew horn upon his head.
The canal is a significant source of pride for the citizens of Malacost, symbolizing the conclusion of the occupation by the forces of Thasmudyan. The waterway is revered much like a temple or church. Visitors to this region are initially perplexed when surveying the flat terrain and witnessing 'vessels navigating across land'.