Hobgoblin
Basic Information
Biological Traits
Male hobgoblins with large blue or red noses are considered to be the epitome of virility and power in hobgoblin society. They are often viewed as the ideal representation of what it means to be a true hobgoblin. As a result, they receive preferential treatment in hobgoblin society, occupying most leadership positions. It is believed that their large blue or red noses are a sign of their strength and power, and is also an indication of their ability to lead and make important decisions. In addition to this, males are also the only sex capable of growing facial hair. This facial hair, which grows around the chin and corners of the mouth, is seen as a symbol of maturity and wisdom, further cementing their status as leaders in hobgoblin society. It is believed that the longer the facial hair, the more respected and revered the hobgoblin is among its peers.
Growth Rate & Stages
Hobgoblins have a similar lifespan to humans, but their love for warfare often shortens it. Their society is heavily militarized, and young hobgoblins start soldiering at a very young age. They undergo brutal training with ten other hobgoblins, forming a tight-knit unit that they must rely on to survive. The training is designed to be grueling, pushing them to their limits both physically and mentally. They are taught to be ruthless in battle and to never give up, even in the face of defeat.
As they progress through their training, they are constantly evaluated and tested. After ten years, they take a final test, which is incredibly difficult and designed to separate the weak from the strong. Those who pass must demonstrate honor, valor, and skill, which are highly valued in hobgoblin society. They are then given the status of full-fledged soldiers and can lead their own units in battle.
However, for those who fail the test, the future is bleak. They are cast out of the military and relegated to the role of camp followers. Camp followers are essentially second-class citizens who provide support to the soldiers in the form of cooking, cleaning, and other menial tasks. Their lives are harsh and often short, as they are not afforded the same protection as the soldiers. Despite this, many hobgoblins still choose to follow this path, as they believe it is better than living a life of shame and dishonor.
As they progress through their training, they are constantly evaluated and tested. After ten years, they take a final test, which is incredibly difficult and designed to separate the weak from the strong. Those who pass must demonstrate honor, valor, and skill, which are highly valued in hobgoblin society. They are then given the status of full-fledged soldiers and can lead their own units in battle.
However, for those who fail the test, the future is bleak. They are cast out of the military and relegated to the role of camp followers. Camp followers are essentially second-class citizens who provide support to the soldiers in the form of cooking, cleaning, and other menial tasks. Their lives are harsh and often short, as they are not afforded the same protection as the soldiers. Despite this, many hobgoblins still choose to follow this path, as they believe it is better than living a life of shame and dishonor.
Ecology and Habitats
Hobgoblins are known for their territorial behavior. They seek out lands that possess abundant resources and establish strongholds in strategic locations to expand their territory. With an eye towards securing their holdings, they build formidable defenses around their territory, while also living in separate locations when few enemies exist nearby. They are known to settle in areas with adequate resources, where they build non-portable facilities such as forges and sawmills.
Hobgoblin lairs resemble military bases, complete with well-guarded quarters, training grounds, and monuments. They have a profound impact on their environment, stripping all resources from the land and leaving desolate fields and dry riverbeds in their wake. However, their impact is not limited to just the environment. Hobgoblins make significant changes on a local level by digging trenches, clearing forests, and building serviceable stockades that can be reinforced over time. Moreover, their territorial behavior has a ripple effect on the local economy, as they control the resources and dictate the trade.
Despite their cunning and territorial behavior, some hobgoblins have been known to form alliances with other peoples and even engage in trade with them. The key to establishing such relationships is to offer them something that they cannot easily obtain themselves, such as enchanted weapons or rare ingredients.
Hobgoblin lairs resemble military bases, complete with well-guarded quarters, training grounds, and monuments. They have a profound impact on their environment, stripping all resources from the land and leaving desolate fields and dry riverbeds in their wake. However, their impact is not limited to just the environment. Hobgoblins make significant changes on a local level by digging trenches, clearing forests, and building serviceable stockades that can be reinforced over time. Moreover, their territorial behavior has a ripple effect on the local economy, as they control the resources and dictate the trade.
Despite their cunning and territorial behavior, some hobgoblins have been known to form alliances with other peoples and even engage in trade with them. The key to establishing such relationships is to offer them something that they cannot easily obtain themselves, such as enchanted weapons or rare ingredients.
Additional Information
Social Structure
Hobgoblins are known to have a highly structured society, organized into groups called legions. These legions are governed by a strict military hierarchy, with each hobgoblin holding a specific rank. In turn, legions are divided into smaller units called banners, each with its own status and power structure. Hobgoblin society is known to be incredibly competitive, with rival legions constantly vying for reputation and status. It is not uncommon for meetings between these legions to turn violent.
The warlord of each hobgoblin legion is a powerful figure, known for being a ruthless tyrant. They are more focused on strategy, victory, glory, reputation, and dominion than actually leading their troops into battle. In fact, their subordinates are the ones who carry out most of the actual fighting. However, the warlord's leadership is essential to the success of the legion, as they are responsible for making critical strategic decisions that can lead to victory or defeat.
The warlord of each hobgoblin legion is a powerful figure, known for being a ruthless tyrant. They are more focused on strategy, victory, glory, reputation, and dominion than actually leading their troops into battle. In fact, their subordinates are the ones who carry out most of the actual fighting. However, the warlord's leadership is essential to the success of the legion, as they are responsible for making critical strategic decisions that can lead to victory or defeat.
Facial characteristics
Hobgoblins are known for their striking physical features. Their yellow or dark brown eyes are always a standout, peering out beneath their beetling brows. Sharp and yellowed teeth complete their wide mouths, making them a menacing sight to behold. Interestingly, their noses become more colorful when they are enraged or excited, much like how humans' cheeks flush with emotion. Additionally, hobgoblins share a similar trait with goblins, where their ears and nose do not stop growing. This unique feature sets them apart from other creatures and adds to their distinct appearance.
Civilization and Culture
Naming Traditions
Hobgoblins live to make war, not the chaotic pillaging and destruction of gnolls, but full-fledged, organized war. Every facet of their society is geared towards this pursuit, from their strict social hierarchy and harsh punishments to even their naming conventions. Hobgoblins bear short, sharp names that are easy to bark orders to and differentiate in battle. Multisyllabic names are rare and generally only found among high-ranking officers.
Major Organizations
The Iron Shadows, a hobgoblin secret police force and spy network, are a formidable presence in hobgoblin society. They use a combination of unarmed combat and shadow magic to prevent insurrections and treachery. Their distinctive devil masks and superior training command respect from other hobgoblins, and their reach extends far beyond the borders of their own society.
The recruitment process for the Iron Shadows is rigorous and involves a series of tests to reveal potential for treachery. Those who pass these tests are then subjected to a grueling training program that encompasses both martial and magical skills. Once their training is complete, they are ordained to carry out assassinations and espionage missions as directed by the priests of Xatris.
The Iron Shadow Master is the ultimate authority over the Iron Shadows and oversees their development. However, there are whispers of a select few who may be tasked with carrying out secret missions beyond the knowledge of their peers. Despite the shadowy nature of their work, the Iron Shadows are admired by many hobgoblins for their strength, discipline, and unwavering loyalty to the priesthood of Xatris.
Hobgoblins, being creatures of war, have a unique and fascinating approach to using magic in combat. Their use of magic is not just limited to the few individuals who can wield it, but they have a well-established institution, the Academy of Devastation, that is dedicated to training young hobgoblins with an aptitude for magic. The Academy has an intensive training regimen that includes rigorous drills, exercises, and academic study. The hobgoblin devastators, who are the products of this Academy, are taught powerful and destructive spells, as well as the fundamentals of evocation magic, making them essentially a mobile artillery battery on the battlefield. They are highly respected by other members of the hobgoblin host and receive obedience and deference from many quarters.
Moreover, the Academy of Devastation provides specialized training for hobgoblins who exhibit a talent for magic, which results in their graduates being feared among the ranks of goblinoids. The Academy's mass indoctrination and testing processes ensure that every hobgoblin who has the potential to cast spells is identified and trained. This ensures that the hobgoblins can wield magic as a team, creating a formidable force on the battlefield.
In conclusion, the hobgoblin's approach to magic in warfare is a unique and effective one. The Academy of Devastation is a testament to their commitment to using every available resource to gain an advantage on the battlefield. Their graduates are highly respected and feared among the ranks of goblinoids, and it is no wonder that hobgoblins are known for their prowess in battle.
The recruitment process for the Iron Shadows is rigorous and involves a series of tests to reveal potential for treachery. Those who pass these tests are then subjected to a grueling training program that encompasses both martial and magical skills. Once their training is complete, they are ordained to carry out assassinations and espionage missions as directed by the priests of Xatris.
The Iron Shadow Master is the ultimate authority over the Iron Shadows and oversees their development. However, there are whispers of a select few who may be tasked with carrying out secret missions beyond the knowledge of their peers. Despite the shadowy nature of their work, the Iron Shadows are admired by many hobgoblins for their strength, discipline, and unwavering loyalty to the priesthood of Xatris.
Hobgoblins, being creatures of war, have a unique and fascinating approach to using magic in combat. Their use of magic is not just limited to the few individuals who can wield it, but they have a well-established institution, the Academy of Devastation, that is dedicated to training young hobgoblins with an aptitude for magic. The Academy has an intensive training regimen that includes rigorous drills, exercises, and academic study. The hobgoblin devastators, who are the products of this Academy, are taught powerful and destructive spells, as well as the fundamentals of evocation magic, making them essentially a mobile artillery battery on the battlefield. They are highly respected by other members of the hobgoblin host and receive obedience and deference from many quarters.
Moreover, the Academy of Devastation provides specialized training for hobgoblins who exhibit a talent for magic, which results in their graduates being feared among the ranks of goblinoids. The Academy's mass indoctrination and testing processes ensure that every hobgoblin who has the potential to cast spells is identified and trained. This ensures that the hobgoblins can wield magic as a team, creating a formidable force on the battlefield.
In conclusion, the hobgoblin's approach to magic in warfare is a unique and effective one. The Academy of Devastation is a testament to their commitment to using every available resource to gain an advantage on the battlefield. Their graduates are highly respected and feared among the ranks of goblinoids, and it is no wonder that hobgoblins are known for their prowess in battle.
Beauty Ideals
Hobgoblins are known for their lack of appreciation and patience when it comes to art. They tend to view beauty only in the context of images depicting conflict and warfare. However, it is important to note that this does not necessarily mean that hobgoblins are incapable of experiencing beauty in other forms. In fact, some hobgoblins may find beauty in the precision and efficiency of a well-crafted weapon, or in the strategy and tactics involved in a battle. While their preference for images of conflict and warfare may be strong, it does not completely define their relationship with beauty and art. It is possible that hobgoblins simply have a different perspective on what constitutes beauty, one that is shaped by their experiences and cultural background.
Gender Ideals
Hobgoblin society places a strong emphasis on passing on strong genes to the next generation, and this responsibility is especially felt among high-ranking females. While their martial reputation earns them respect, pregnancy often keeps them out of active service. However, their status as combatants in the past still affords them a great deal of respect. In fact, wars have been fought and kingdoms have been sacked for the dowries of particularly high-status hobgoblin women.
Interestingly, hobgoblin society also places great importance on facial hair as a sign of rank and status. Males are allowed to grow longer beards as they move up in rank, with senior hobgoblins sporting the longest beards. This tradition adds to the complexity of hobgoblin society and reflects their deep-seated cultural values.
Interestingly, hobgoblin society also places great importance on facial hair as a sign of rank and status. Males are allowed to grow longer beards as they move up in rank, with senior hobgoblins sporting the longest beards. This tradition adds to the complexity of hobgoblin society and reflects their deep-seated cultural values.
Major Language Groups and Dialects
Hobgoblins, unlike their goblin counterparts, are known for their straightforward manner of speaking. They tend to use a language that is less clipped and chattering, but at the same time it still heavily favors hard consonants. While Goblin language tends to be ambiguous, it is rare for a hobgoblin word to have more than one meaning. This straightforwardness can be seen in the way they use existing words to describe new concepts, often clumping them together to create a new term. As such, their language is not only a means of communication, but also a reflection of their culture and way of thinking.
Common Etiquette Rules
Hobgoblins, known for their pragmatic and cold demeanor, are not the most talkative creatures. They are not fond of small talk and are more likely to engage in discussions about their war stories, preferred combat tactics, or boastful statements. It is worth noting that hobgoblins are devout worshippers of their deities. They pay regular tribute to their gods and are expected to bow or salute to idols of Vuglan, as well as standards and flags bearing their image or symbol, at all times except during emergencies. Moreover, Xatris’ peacemakers receive due deference regardless of rank or banner status.
Due to their warlike nature, hobgoblins believe that any insult demands a response. This is why they generally tend to be on guard and prepared to retaliate. Interestingly, the outward politeness and civility that they demonstrate among each other within their own legion enables them to avoid conflicts in daily life. In other words, hobgoblins understand the importance of keeping the peace within their own community, but are quick to defend themselves and their beliefs against outsiders.
Due to their warlike nature, hobgoblins believe that any insult demands a response. This is why they generally tend to be on guard and prepared to retaliate. Interestingly, the outward politeness and civility that they demonstrate among each other within their own legion enables them to avoid conflicts in daily life. In other words, hobgoblins understand the importance of keeping the peace within their own community, but are quick to defend themselves and their beliefs against outsiders.
Common Dress Code
Hobgoblins tend to prefer bold and practical clothing. They have an exceptional sense of responsibility towards their weapons, armor, and personal possessions, and take great care to maintain them. In fact, some hobgoblins go to great lengths in adding intricate flourishes to their armors, as a means of expressing their eccentricity.
Culture and Cultural Heritage
Hobgoblins are a unique group of beings that have a deep appreciation for excellence in all areas of life. While they highly value martial prowess and hard-earned experience, they also have a great respect for those who display aptitude in the arcane arts, religious devotion, or mastery of a trade. This appreciation for excellence is rooted in their belief that discipline is the key to sharpening passion into an unwavering purpose.
Their society is one that is built around the ideals of being hard, unrelenting, and uncompromising. Every legion in their society is forever prepared for war, meaning that they take their military preparations very seriously. In addition, hobgoblins hold themselves to very high standards of military honor. Any infractions of hobgoblin law are dealt with swiftly and mercilessly, as they firmly believe that their honor code is something that should never be compromised.
Despite their tough exterior, hobgoblins also have a deep appreciation for accomplishment and achievement. Advancement in rank is something that is highly sought after, but it can only be achieved by attaining glory while abiding by their code of honor. Each hobgoblin legion has a distinct code of honor and law, but all of them follow a few general precepts that are at the heart of the hobgoblin honor system.
Their society is one that is built around the ideals of being hard, unrelenting, and uncompromising. Every legion in their society is forever prepared for war, meaning that they take their military preparations very seriously. In addition, hobgoblins hold themselves to very high standards of military honor. Any infractions of hobgoblin law are dealt with swiftly and mercilessly, as they firmly believe that their honor code is something that should never be compromised.
Despite their tough exterior, hobgoblins also have a deep appreciation for accomplishment and achievement. Advancement in rank is something that is highly sought after, but it can only be achieved by attaining glory while abiding by their code of honor. Each hobgoblin legion has a distinct code of honor and law, but all of them follow a few general precepts that are at the heart of the hobgoblin honor system.
Common Customs, Traditions and Rituals
Hobgoblins are known to be highly skilled both in combat and craftsmanship, possessing a deep understanding of tactics and discipline. They meticulously survey their surroundings before engaging in battle, which has allowed them to stand toe-to-toe with any other peoples. One of their most noteworthy tactics is the use of unbreakable shield walls, which have become legendary on the battlefield. In addition, hobgoblins are known to employ a variety of formations, making them an incredibly versatile force to be reckoned with.
Their strong devotion to Vuglan, the god of war, and Xatris, the stoic, cold-blooded, god of tyranny, is a key aspect of hobgoblin culture. This devotion has resulted in a long-standing tradition of shared beliefs and practices that leave little room for joy or leisure in their lives. The headquarters of every hobgoblin legion includes a Way to Glory, which serves as a final resting place for the honored dead.
Their strong devotion to Vuglan, the god of war, and Xatris, the stoic, cold-blooded, god of tyranny, is a key aspect of hobgoblin culture. This devotion has resulted in a long-standing tradition of shared beliefs and practices that leave little room for joy or leisure in their lives. The headquarters of every hobgoblin legion includes a Way to Glory, which serves as a final resting place for the honored dead.
Common Taboos
Cowardice is more terrible to hobgoblins than dying, for they believe that their living acts will continue to affect their afterlife. Therefore, they strive to live a life of bravery and heroism. A hero in death becomes a hero eternal, forever remembered and celebrated by their people. In contrast, those who betray or fail their legion are viewed as a disgrace and punished accordingly. They may be humiliated and exiled from their community, forever shamed and rejected. Alternatively, they may face a public trial and torture before being killed, a harsh punishment that serves as a warning to others who may consider betraying their people. Overall, the hobgoblin society values bravery and loyalty above all else, and those who embody these virtues are revered and respected.
History
Hobgoblins have a rich history that dates back to the ancient courts of the Faewyld. They appeared alongside their goblin and bugbear kin, and many of them left the Faewyld when the elves did. These hobgoblins were taken in by the god Vuglan, who marshaled them as soldiers. Despite leaving the fey realm, the hobgoblins continue to channel an aspect of the Faewyld’s rule of reciprocity that creates a mystical bond between the giver and receiver of a gift.
Since then, the history of hobgoblins has been one of the rise and fall of empires. Time and time again, hobgoblin armies have set out to war beyond their borders, eager to expand their territory and assert their dominance. However, rival nations, originally led by elves, have always managed to prevent hobgoblins from achieving world domination through their combined efforts.
The ruins of great hobgoblin empires now scatter the land, each telling a story of past glory and defeat. Despite the setbacks, each new generation of hobgoblins strives to reclaim the greatness of its predecessors and establish a new hobgoblin empire that will stand the test of time.
Since then, the history of hobgoblins has been one of the rise and fall of empires. Time and time again, hobgoblin armies have set out to war beyond their borders, eager to expand their territory and assert their dominance. However, rival nations, originally led by elves, have always managed to prevent hobgoblins from achieving world domination through their combined efforts.
The ruins of great hobgoblin empires now scatter the land, each telling a story of past glory and defeat. Despite the setbacks, each new generation of hobgoblins strives to reclaim the greatness of its predecessors and establish a new hobgoblin empire that will stand the test of time.
Common Myths and Legends
The hobgoblins have tales about their own mythology, in which the god of tyranny, Xatris, holds the position of second-in-command under Vuglan, who is the god of war. Even though Vuglan would prefer a god of Chaos in this position, Xatris was the only deity left by Vuglan's side after the Time of Titans. Despite the fact that both deities are ultimately bound to the Prime Deities of their divine spheres, these higher gods allow them to keep some of their influence over the hobgoblins. This influence is aligned with their divine vision and therefore acceptable. It is important to note that this influence has been retained despite the fact that it has changed over time and in some cases, even weakened.
Interspecies Relations and Assumptions
Hobgoblins, known for their ferocity and cunning, have mastered the art of utilizing animals for a variety of purposes. These creatures serve as transportation, communication, and protection for hobgoblins, who have tamed a wide range of species including oxen, horses, ravens, wolves, worgs, and even carnivorous apes. However, hobgoblins do not limit themselves to the animal kingdom; they also incorporate formidable bugbears and goblins into their armies.
Despite their love for good quality equipment, hobgoblins also understand the value of gold when dealing with other species. They know that the right amount of gold can buy them what they need. In fact, they may even cooperate with other species if their aims overlap or work as mercenaries for the right price.
It is not surprising that hobgoblin bodyguards are highly sought after by the wealthy. After all, who wouldn't want a fiercely loyal and skilled protector by their side? With their expertise in combat and their unwavering loyalty, hobgoblin bodyguards are a force to be reckoned with.
Despite their love for good quality equipment, hobgoblins also understand the value of gold when dealing with other species. They know that the right amount of gold can buy them what they need. In fact, they may even cooperate with other species if their aims overlap or work as mercenaries for the right price.
It is not surprising that hobgoblin bodyguards are highly sought after by the wealthy. After all, who wouldn't want a fiercely loyal and skilled protector by their side? With their expertise in combat and their unwavering loyalty, hobgoblin bodyguards are a force to be reckoned with.
Scientific Name
Goblinoid
Lifespan
~80 yrs
Average Height
5 to 6 ft.
Average Weight
150 to 200 lbs.
Average Physique
Hobgoblins stand around six feet tall with an athletic physique that comes from a lifetime of hard drilling.
Body Tint, Colouring and Marking
Their skin is tough and durable, with a range of colors that tend towards shades of gray, purple, and reddish tan. The surface of their skin is often covered in small, irregular flecks of orange or red, which give them a uniquely striking appearance. Additionally, their hair is known for its wide range of colors - from dark red-brown to deep, dark gray - which further enhances their distinctive look.
Related Organizations
Related Ethnicities
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