Hobgoblin
Ironhearts, Warmarchers, Grim-Lords
War is the lifeblood of hobgoblins. Its glories are the dreams that inspire them. Its horrors don't feature in their nightmares. Cowardice is more terrible to hobgoblins than dying, for they carry their living acts into the afterlife. A hero in death becomes a hero eternal
Hobgoblins trace their origins to the ancient courts of the Feywild, where they first appeared with their goblin and bugbear kin. Many of them were driven from the Feywild by the conquering god Maglubiyet, who marshaled them as soldiers, but the fey realm left its mark; wherever they are in the multiverse, they continue to channel an aspect of the Feywild’s rule of reciprocity, which creates a mystical bond between the giver and the receiver of a gift.
On some worlds, such bonds lead hobgoblins to form communities with deep ties to one another. In Eberron and the Forgotten Realms, vast hobgoblin legions have emerged, with ranks of devoted soldiers famed for their unity.
Hobgoblins are generally taller than their goblin cousins but not quite as big as bugbears. They have curved, pointed ears and noses that turn bright red or blue during displays of emotion.
Basic Information
Anatomy
Hobgoblins are humanoid, with broad, muscular frames and a hardened physiology adapted for battle. They have sharp facial features, pronounced cheekbones, and pointed ears. Their skin tones range from deep red to dusky orange, with dark hair that grays with age. Their teeth include prominent canines, giving them a slightly predatory appearance.
Genetics and Reproduction
Hobgoblins reproduce sexually, with gestation periods similar to humans (9 months). They are genetically close to goblins and bugbears, sharing common ancestry, though hobgoblins have a more robust and refined physique due to centuries of selective breeding and martial discipline.
Ecology and Habitats
Hobgoblins thrive in rugged, mountainous terrains, favoring fortified settlements like Grimmaw Keep. They are highly adaptable, excelling in harsh environments. Their ecological impact is significant; they transform landscapes into strategic bastions, using the resources around them to sustain their militaristic lifestyle.
Behaviour
Hobgoblins are disciplined, strategic, and honor-bound. They value hierarchy and collective strength, often prioritizing the needs of the group over individual desires. Cowardice is seen as the ultimate failing, while bravery and tactical acumen are the highest virtues.
Additional Information
Average Intelligence
Above average, particularly in logical reasoning and tactical thinking.
Perception and Sensory Capabilities
Hobgoblins possess excellent night vision due to their darkvision trait, enabling them to perceive their surroundings in low-light and dark conditions. Their heightened tactical awareness allows them to assess combat scenarios with precision, though they lack extrasensory abilities.
Civilization and Culture
Naming Traditions
Hobgoblin names are often guttural and short, like Goruk, Tharn, or Vakrin, with surnames tied to their deeds or rank, such as Ironhelm or Battleborn. Clan names are rare but signify strong familial ties, like Grimmaw or Stonebreaker.
Beauty Ideals
Strength, scars, and signs of endurance are considered attractive, as they reflect an individual’s battle prowess. Well-kept armor and weapons are also marks of personal pride and appeal.
Gender Ideals
Hobgoblins emphasize roles and merit over gender. Both males and females are expected to excel in their chosen field, whether it be martial, logistical, or leadership-oriented. However, elder females often hold advisory positions, symbolizing wisdom and continuity.
Courtship Ideals
Courtship is a practical affair, often initiated through displays of skill, whether in combat, strategy, or craftsmanship. Gifts of forged weapons or armor are common, symbolizing commitment and shared responsibility.
Relationship Ideals
Relationships prioritize mutual respect, collaboration, and the strengthening of the community. Partnerships are often formalized through ceremonies where both parties pledge loyalty to each other and their clan.
Common Etiquette Rules
Bowing or saluting superiors is customary.
Maintaining eye contact is a sign of honesty and respect.
Interrupting a tactical briefing is a grave offense.
Common Dress Code
Hobgoblins prefer functional, well-crafted attire. Warriors wear armor adorned with clan insignias or battle honors, while civilians wear practical tunics and robes reinforced with leather. Colors like crimson, black, and steel gray are favored.
Culture and Cultural Heritage
Hobgoblins are deeply rooted in martial tradition, with a strong emphasis on discipline, hierarchy, and craftsmanship. Their cultural heritage revolves around war songs, tactical studies, and the crafting of weapons and armor.
- The Forge Rite: A coming-of-age ceremony where young hobgoblins craft their first weapon or piece of armor.
- Warrior’s Vigil: A night of reflection before major battles, where hobgoblins recount the deeds of fallen comrades.
- Council of Iron: A semi-annual gathering of clan leaders to discuss strategy and governance.
Common Customs, Traditions and Rituals
Day of Iron Resolve
Date: 3rd Enigmaris
The Day of Iron Resolve is the most sacred and revered holiday among the Hobgoblin clans of Grimmaw Keep, nestled in the Stronghold Mountains. This annual celebration commemorates the unyielding discipline, military prowess, and deep sense of honor that define Hobgoblin culture. It is a day when the people come together to strengthen their bonds of unity, hone their skills, and honor the ancestors who forged the ironclad reputation of their kind.
Morning:
At sunrise, the Ceremony of Blades begins, where Hobgoblins of all ages gather to sharpen their weapons and polish their armor in the central square of Grimmaw Keep. This ritual symbolizes not only the preparation for battle but also the sharpening of one’s mind, discipline, and loyalty. The eldest warriors, known as the Iron Sages, lead the ceremony and share stories of famous battles, reminding the younger generation of their duty to protect and honor their clan.
Midday:
As the sun reaches its peak, the Trials of Valor commence. These trials are a series of rigorous physical and mental challenges that test the strength, endurance, and strategy of the Hobgoblins. Clans compete in mock battles, obstacle courses, and tactical games. The Grand War Council, an esteemed group of veteran commanders, oversee the trials and judge the participants on their ability to work as a unit and demonstrate individual prowess. Victors are awarded the title of Steelheart Champion, earning them great respect and a place of honor at the evening feast.
Afternoon:
After the trials, the Forge of Unity ritual takes place. Hobgoblins gather at the heart of Grimmaw Keep’s ancient forge, where master blacksmiths work together to craft a ceremonial weapon or piece of armor. Each year, this item represents the collective strength and unity of the people and is imbued with blessings from the Warchant Priests, who sing hymns of courage and fortitude. This crafted item is then enshrined in Grimmaw Keep’s Hall of Honor, where relics of past victories are kept.
Evening:
As dusk approaches, the Feast of the Red Banner begins. The entire community gathers for a grand feast within the stone halls of Grimmaw Keep, where tables are laden with roasted game, hearty stews, and strong ale. During the feast, the Red Banner of Grimmaw is raised—a symbol of the Hobgoblins’ enduring spirit and fierce determination. The Iron Sages recount legendary battles from the past, and the Steelheart Champions are recognized with honors and gifts. It is a time of camaraderie, where rivalries are put aside, and unity is celebrated above all.
Night:
The celebration concludes with the Vigil of Resolve, a solemn nighttime gathering where the Hobgoblins light a series of torches along the battlements of Grimmaw Keep. Standing in formation, they silently reaffirm their oaths to protect their people, their homeland, and their honor. As the torches burn brightly against the dark mountain sky, the warriors meditate on the strength of iron—unyielding and steadfast, just as they must be.
The Day of Iron Resolve is a day of reflection, strength, and solidarity for the Hobgoblin people of Grimmaw Keep. It serves as a reminder of their duty to one another and the values of discipline, loyalty, and honor that have kept their society strong for generations. Through trials, craftsmanship, and the unity of their people, they continue to forge an unbreakable bond within the fortress they call home
Common Taboos
- Abandoning Comrades: Desertion in battle is considered the ultimate betrayal.
- Disrespecting Ancestors: Mocking or neglecting the memory of the fallen is forbidden.
- Wasting Resources: Extravagance and inefficiency are frowned upon in their utilitarian society.
History
The hobgoblins have been around for a long time, ensuring the goblinoid kind are well practiced in defending themselves. While training goblins and bugbears in guerllia tactics, the Hobgoblins thrived in the thick of battle. They were able to keep their kind alive during the Aurora Coven's attempts to bring the Fey wild into the material plane.
After arriving in Astrium, the goblinoids were in the thick of battling giant and giantkin when they became stranded in the stronghold mountains. They have since worked hard to establish a foothold in the stronghold mountains as they are working together with a small group working to bring fey members to the Astrium Council, establishing a settlement in the mountains called Grimmaw Keep.
Common Myths and Legends
- The First Forge: A tale of how the first hobgoblin, Grakhan Ironshaper, was gifted the knowledge of metallurgy by a mountain spirit in exchange for defending the land.
- The Giant’s Fall: A legendary battle where hobgoblins outwitted and defeated a massive stone giant clan, solidifying their hold in the Stronghold Mountains.
- The Eternal March: A belief that heroic hobgoblins join an endless army in the afterlife, fighting alongside their ancestors in a glorious, eternal campaign.
Scientific Name
Homo bellicosus hobii
Lifespan
70-90 years, with elders revered for their experience.
Average Height
5'6" to 6'2"
Average Weight
150-200 pounds
Average Physique
Athletic and powerful, with dense musculature and high endurance.
Body Tint, Colouring and Marking
Skin tones range from reddish-brown to deep crimson, often with scars from battle or ritual markings. Their eyes are commonly yellow, orange, or red. Tattoos and ceremonial scars denoting rank and achievements are prevalent.
Geographic Distribution
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