Atharveda is a major agricultural center and a travel waypoint between Ardara, Ikshvaku, Agartha and Camulodonum. Far enough from Vandermane's borders that it is not considered likely for Atharveda to experience invasion, their military presence is relatively low, theoretically relying on troops from Nidaros in the event of an attack.
Due largely to the curvature of the roads in Vandermane, the positioning of Atharveda is considered ideal for assisting in preventing a large-scale assault into the heartland of the kingdom. This is because any invading army must necessarily take to the roads, being inexperienced in the hidden trails the Vandermane, the full forces of the kingdom could be brought to bear at any point in the nation's borders.