What Made For Greatness?

And yet, how came that empire to greatness?

To be sure, part of the reason for Aerdi dominance was the weakness of the Flan opposition when the Oeridians arrived. Divided, not many in number, with few demihu mans outside of specific enclaves, the Flan were readily overcome. However, the Oeridians also kept the Baklunish people marginalized to the northwest of the Flanaess and drove the Suloise to the uttermost southern margins. They overcame all comers and rivals. How so?