The Historical Tapestry of Verbobonc

Verbobonc, a city of historical significance and cultural diversity, has a rich and intricate past. From its early days as a gnomish and elven stronghold to its current status as a near-independent province, Verbobonc's history is a chronicle of alliances, conflicts, and transformations.
Verbobonc Historic Time Line

A Glimpse into Verbobonc's Storied Past: The rich tapestry of Verbobonc's history, as briefly chronicled in the passages above, offers only a glimpse into the profound and intricate saga of this region. These historical highlights, inspired by and referencing "THE HISTORY OF VERBOBONC" from the esteemed "Journal of the Wanderer - The Wayfarer’s Guide to Verbobonc", have been meticulously compiled with the assistance of the Verbobonc Triad and Council. It is important to acknowledge that these accounts represent mere snapshots of pivotal moments, carefully selected to convey the essence of Verbobonc's journey through time. The full depth of Verbobonc's past, replete with its triumphs, tribulations, and transformations, is far more expansive and complex than can be captured in a brief overview. Each event, character, and epoch mentioned here is but a thread in the vast and vibrant historical tapestry of Verbobonc, a realm that has shaped and been shaped by the forces of history in ways both seen and unseen.

— 3orcs

Gnomish and Elven Origins

In the earliest epochs of its history, Verbobonc was not merely a settlement but a convergence of ancient civilizations. The region, rich with natural resources and positioned along the Velverdyva River, saw habitation from gnomes, elves, and humans long before the rise of the modern Viscounty. While the elves and gnomes established fortified communities, the earliest humans, the Flan, arrived in waves, bringing with them powerful but short-lived empires. These early cultures shaped the land’s destiny long before Oeridian rule.

• Early Settlement: Initially, Verbobonc was a gnomish settlement on the Velverdyva River, protected by a fort named Verboek.
• Elven Influence: Before human dominance, it was an elven military town, aligned with Grey Elves of Enstad, with extensive elven architecture.
• Shared Governance: Elves of Greyhawk and Gnomes coexisted, defending the area from external threats.

1. The Era of the Ur-Flan and First Human Settlements (-3000 CY to -440 CY)

The first era of human civilization in the region began as early as -3000 CY, with the emergence of two major Ur-Flan nations. These societies, steeped in dark sorcery and necromantic rule, wielded great power across the central Flanaess and left an ominous legacy that lingers to this day.

The first of these nations was the Thaumatocracy of the Isles of Woe, a priest-ruled empire that commanded the coasts of the Nyr Dyv and inland trade routes, extending its influence as far as the Velverdyva. Though the Isles of Woe sank beneath the waters of the Nyr Dyv around -2000 CY, its remnant cities, particularly Tycheron, continued to exert control over inland territories, including lands that would one day be known as Verbobonc.

However, Tycheron’s expansion along the Velverdyva would draw the wrath of a far darker power—the Occluded Empire of the Whispered One, ruled by the arch-lich Vecna . Seeking to crush rival Flan dominions, Vecna launched a brutal conquest, razing Tycheron and wiping out its rulers. His war brought chaos to the entire region, drawing the elves of Celene and the fallen kingdom of Luna into battle. Whether Verbobonc itself was directly attacked, besieged, or razed during this time remains unknown, but the conflict undoubtedly scarred the land and shaped its future struggles.

Key Facts:

• -3000 CY to -2000 CY – The Thaumatocracy of the Isles of Woe dominates Nyr Dyv’s coasts, reaching into the Velverdyva.
• -2000 CY – The Isles of Woe sink, but Tycheron, a surviving city, continues to expand.
• Vecna destroys Tycheron, preventing its dominance along the Velverdyva and drawing elven kingdoms into war against him.
• The elves of Celene and the lost kingdom of Luna fought Vecna, but the extent of damage to Verbobonc is unknown.

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2. The Twin Cataclysms - Oeridian Migrations (-440 CY to -100 CY)

By -440 CY, the Flan empires had collapsed or been consumed by war, but new powers were rising. The Twin Cataclysms of the Suloise Suel and Baklunish Bakluni peoples reshaped the Flanaess, sending waves of refugees in all directions. Among them were the first Oeridian migrants, the Aerdi and Nehri, who entered the Velverdyva region from Fals Gap. Unlike the Ur-Flan, these early Oeridians were semi-nomadic warriors, skilled in battle but disinterested in settling the region. Instead, they fought surviving Flan warlords but largely avoided conflict with the elves, moving eastward to establish the Great Kingdom of Aerdy in later centuries.

At the same time, the Suel refugees, possibly related to the Maure of Urnst, began arriving via the Wild Coast, adding to the instability. These conflicts did not immediately lead to permanent human control of the region, but they set the stage for later power struggles.

However, the greatest disruption came not from humans, but from monstrous hordes. Humanoid armies surged into the region, conquering the elven kingdom of Luna and forcing Celene to retreat south of the Kron Hills. The elves abandoned their northern holdings, and gnomish strongholds became isolated bastions, struggling to hold back the tide.

Key Facts:

• -440 CY – The Twin Cataclysms send Oeridian and Suel refugees into the region.
• Early Oeridian migrants (Aerdi and Nehri) arrive, fighting Flan warlords but moving eastward.
• The Suel (possibly Maure-related) arrive via the Wild Coast, competing for land.
• Humanoid armies invade, destroying the elven kingdom of Luna and forcing Celene to retreat southward.

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3. The Velondi Oeridians and the Rise of Gnome-Elf Alliances (-100 CY to 1 CY)

Following the chaos of previous centuries, a new Oeridian group—the Velondi Oeridians—arrived between -100 and 1 CY. Unlike the earlier Aerdi and Nehri, who passed eastward, the Velondi stayed, establishing petty kingdoms and fortified settlements throughout the region. These Velondi warrior-kings fought back against humanoid occupiers, liberating many gnomish strongholds and forging alliances with the elves of Celene.

By 1 CY, these scattered states had stabilized, though they would soon be absorbed into the expanding Great Kingdom of Aerdy.

Key Facts:

• -100 CY to 1 CY – The Velondi Oeridians arrive and reclaim lands from humanoid hordes.
• The Velondi form alliances with gnomes and elves, defending the region.
• 1 CY – The region stabilizes into small Velondi-controlled states, later absorbed by Aerdy.

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4. The Formation of Modern Verbobonc (8 CY – 117 CY)

With the Velondi states weakened by internal feuds, the Great Kingdom of Aerdy expanded into the region in the early 2nd century CY, formally incorporating it into the Viceroyalty of Ferrond by 117 CY. However, before this, a critical moment in Verbobonc’s history occurred in 8 CY, when the community embarked on an ambitious effort to rebuild its ancient defenses.

Led by the famed gnome architect Snirthiglin, New Verboek was established—a fortified settlement that embraced its gnome, elf, and human heritage. However, as humans settled in greater numbers, Verbobonc transitioned into a major trade port, leading to the gradual departure of many elves, who retreated to the depths of Celene’s forests.

Key Facts:

• 8 CY – New Verboek is constructed, named in honor of an ancient gnome fort.
• Gnome architect Snirthiglin led the rebuilding effort, designing a trade-focused settlement.
• Humans became the dominant population, and many elves departed for Celene.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Many Peoples

Verbobonc’s history is not merely human, elven, or gnomish—but all three intertwined. From its earliest days under Ur-Flan rule to the arrival of Oeridians and the rise of trade, the city embodies a legacy of war, resilience, and adaptation. The Flan, Vecna, the elves of Luna, the gnomes of the Kron Hills, and the Oeridian Velondi all shaped its fate.

By the time Aerdy arrived in 117 CY, Verbobonc was already a city of deep history and diverse heritage, a meeting place of cultures that would one day become one of the most significant river cities in the Flanaess.

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Era of Political Change (117 CY)

The Era of Political Change in Verbobonc was shaped by shifting allegiances, territorial conflicts, and religious transformations. Over these centuries, Verbobonc transitioned from an elven-gnomish stronghold under Ferrondian rule to a noble-led province under the growing influence of Furyondy and Veluna. This period saw the rule of its first Viscount, the Keoish occupation, its liberation, and the rise of St. Cuthbert’s church, all of which shaped the Viscounty’s political and spiritual identity.

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1. The Incorporation into Ferrond (117 CY – 254 CY)

With Aerdy's western expansion waning, Verbobonc was formally incorporated into the Viceroyalty of Ferrond in 117 CY, under the administration of Veluna. This strengthened its role as a defensive outpost and river trade waystation, though it remained secondary to Dyvers as a trade hub. Ferrond’s governance introduced structured noble rule, blending existing elven and gnomish traditions with Oeridian feudal law. Unlike Dyvers, which flourished as a major trade center, Verbobonc’s importance was primarily strategic, protecting river trade routes along the Velverdyva.

Key Facts:

• 117 CY – Verbobonc was officially incorporated into the Viceroyalty of Ferrond under Veluna’s authority.
• Verbobonc became a waystation and defensive outpost rather than a major trade city.
• Elven and gnomish influence remained strong, but Oeridian nobility and feudal governance expanded.
• Aerdy’s presence faded, leaving Ferrondian and Velunese troops to maintain order.

2. The Rise of Viscount Ramsi and Furyondy’s Claim (254 CY – 355 CY)

by 3orcs

In 254 CY, Furyondy declared independence from Aerdy, asserting full control over Veluna, Verbobonc, Dyvers, and the Shield Lands. To solidify its rule, King Thrommel I appointed Ramsi, a loyal Oeridian noble, as the first Viscount of Verbobonc.

Viscount Ramsi was a military-minded leader, overseeing the fortification of Verbobonc and expanding its noble class to include Furyondian loyalists while maintaining ties with Veluna’s clergy. Under his rule, Verbobonc remained semi-autonomous, balancing its allegiance between Furyondy and Veluna. Ramsi’s rule lasted roughly a century, securing the Viscounty’s stability and prosperity—until the invasion by Keoland in 350 CY, marking the start of the Long War.

Key Facts:

• 254 CY – Viscount Ramsi was appointed by King Thrommel I, marking the formal creation of the Viscounty of Verbobonc.
• Ramsi fortified Verbobonc, strengthening river patrols and military watchtowers along the Velverdyva.
• Despite Furyondian ties, Ramsi maintained diplomatic relations with Veluna, allowing its clergy influence over the nobility.
• Ramsi ruled until the Keoish invasion of 355 CY, where he was either killed in battle or forced into exile.

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3. Keoland’s Invasion and the Long War (350 CY – 355 CY)

In 350 CY, Keoland launched an invasion into southern Veluna and western Verbobonc, marking the start of what would later be called the Long War. The Keoish Second Expeditionary Army quickly overran Verbobonc’s defenses, capturing key settlements and imposing military governors over the region. The war officially ended in 355 CY with the Treaty of Devarnish, but Keoland maintained an occupation of Verbobonc for the next 80 years.

Though the war formally ended, Veluna and local resistance forces viewed Keoland’s continued presence as part of an ongoing struggle, contributing to the "Long" nature of the war. Compounding Keoland’s problems, its simultaneous war with Ket never fully ended, as Ketite resistance remained constant, forcing Keoland to divert resources away from Verbobonc.

Key Facts:

• 350 CY – Keoland invaded western Verbobonc and southern Veluna, starting the Long War.
• 355 CY – The Treaty of Devarnish officially ended hostilities, but Keoland remained as an occupying force.
• Keoish military governors replaced local leadership, displacing Verbobonc’s nobility.
• Keoland also fought a war with Ket at the same time, which remained unresolved and drained resources.

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4. The Short War and Liberation (436 CY – 438 CY)

In 436 CY, Keoland initiated another military campaign, seeking to solidify its rule over Verbobonc and complete its conquest of Veluna. However, this sparked the Short War, as Furyondy and Veluna responded with a significant military counteroffensive. The conflict ended in 438 CY with a decisive victory for Furyondy and Veluna, forcing Keoland to retreat and ceding Bissel to Furyondy as a protective buffer state.

Key Facts:

• 436 CY – Keoland launched another campaign to solidify its hold over Verbobonc, beginning the Short War.
• 438 CY – Furyondy and Veluna defeated Keoland, expelling them from the region.
• Bissel was annexed by Furyondy, preventing further Keoish aggression.
• A new Viscount was likely appointed, possibly a descendant of Ramsi or a Furyondian noble.

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5. Religious and Political Shifts (438 CY – 529 CY)

Following the Short War, Verbobonc remained a vassal of Furyondy and Veluna, but its governance shifted. The rise of St. Cuthbert’s church began to replace Raoan religious dominance, particularly among the nobility and military. By 529 CY, Verbobonc distanced itself from direct Velunese oversight, choosing not to participate in the Court at Mitrik, though it remained politically aligned with Furyondy. However, by the late 6th century CY, Verbobonc re-established ties with Mitrik, forming alliances that would become critical in the fight against the Temple of Elemental Evil.

Key Facts:

• Post-438 CY, St. Cuthbert’s church gained influence, gradually replacing Raoan dominance in Verbobonc.
• 529 CY – Verbobonc distanced itself from Veluna’s direct oversight but remained a Furyondian vassal.
• Despite autonomy, the Viscounty maintained strong noble governance and military alliances.
• By the late 6th century CY, Verbobonc rejoined the Court at Mitrik, setting the stage for the Battle of Emridy Meadows.

The Temple of Elemental Evil and Its Threat

Verbobonc's relative peace was shattered in the late 550s by the emergence of a sinister force in the Kron Hills. The Temple of Elemental Evil, as it came to be known, cast a long shadow over the region, threatening the safety and prosperity of Verbobonc.

• Nexus of Evil: Situated southeast of Verbobonc in the Kron Hills, the Temple of Elemental Evil became a rallying point for evil beings.
• Increasing Raids: Initially subtle, raids on overland caravan routes, including those near Hommlet, gradually intensified, disrupting trade and local life.
• Efforts to Contain the Threat: The Gnarley Rangers, Verbobonc's Mounted Borderers patrols, local woodsmen, and Gnomes from Ostverk attempted to quell the spread of evil, but with limited success.

Emridy Meadows by 3orcs

The Battle of Emridy Meadows and the Sacking of the Temple (560s - 569 CY)

• Emergence of the Temple: By the late 560s, the Temple's influence had grown alarmingly, leading to a large-scale evil gathering.
• An Army of Evil: By 568 CY, the Temple's villains had formed an army, prompting a coalition of good to clear Verbobonc, Viscounty's lands of evil.
• The Battle of Emridy Meadows: In 569 CY, forces from Furyondy, Veluna, the Lortmils, and the Kron Hills united to defeat the humanoid horde.
• Holiday Proclamation: The victory at Emridy Meadows was proclaimed a holiday by the Viscount, celebrated annually with a nighttime festival.
• Sacking of the Temple: The combined forces of good marched on the temple, sacking it within a fortnight amidst rumors of a bound demon.

The Second Rising of the Horde (568 CY - Late 570s)

• The Second Rising: Despite earlier victories, a resurgence of evil forces, known as the "Second Rising," occurred in the late 570s.
• Castle at Hommlet: In response, Viscount Wilfrick Revepaix ordered the construction of a castle in Hommlet as a strategic defensive measure.
• Adventurers' Involvement: Numerous adventuring parties engaged the temple in the late 570s, enduring heavy losses before seemingly defeating the horde.

Conclusion: An Era of Conflict and Valor

This period in Verbobonc's history is marked by the struggle against a pervasive evil that threatened the very fabric of the region. The tales of valor and sacrifice during the battles against the Temple of Elemental Evil have become legendary, shaping the collective memory and identity of the people of Verbobonc. The events serve as a testament to the resilience and unity of the diverse communities within the Viscounty, standing together in the face of overwhelming darkness.

3orcs Banner by 3orcs

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Corrections & Fixes in this Rewrite

This historical rewrite of Verbobonc’s early history and development has been heavily revised and expanded based on in-depth research and references to 3orcs' historical analyses, the Living Greyhawk Campaign source material, and the Journal of the Wanderer: The Wayfarer’s Guide to Verbobonc by the Verbobonc Triad. Additionally, insights from Samuel D. Weiss and Gary L. Holian in Vecna: Genesis of a Legend were used to correct, refine, and enhance the timeline, cultural influences, and geopolitical conflicts affecting Verbobonc.

These corrections were necessary to ensure that the timeline, cultural influences, and historical conflicts aligned with established Greyhawk lore while incorporating deeper historical and geopolitical complexity.

Key Revisions & Why They Were Needed:

1. Separated "Human Arrival and Growth" into two distinct periods (-3000 CY to -440 CY and -440 CY to 1 CY).
2. Why? The original timeline oversimplified human settlement, treating all pre-Aerdy human history as a single wave of migration. This was corrected by incorporating Ur-Flan rule, Vecna’s empire, Oeridian migrations, and humanoid invasions into distinct historical periods.
3. Introduced the Ur-Flan Thaumatocracy of the Isles of Woe and the Occluded Empire of Vecna.
4. Why? The Living Greyhawk Campaign and The Wayfarer’s Guide to Verbobonc did not fully explore the impact of the Ur-Flan civilizations on the region. By referencing Vecna: Genesis of a Legend, we incorporated the Isles of Woe (the Thaumatocracy of Heraan) and the Occluded Empire of Vecna, showing their influence over pre-Oeridian Flan civilization.
5. Expanded on the destruction of Tycheron by Vecna.
6. Why? Vecna: Genesis of a Legend describes Tycheron as a major Flan city near modern Dyvers that expanded along the Velverdyva, threatening Vecna’s rule. Including this history adds greater depth to the region’s early conflicts and explains why the elves of Celene and Luna fought against Vecna’s expansion.
7. Clarified Oeridian migrations in two waves (Twin Cataclysms Aerdi/Nehri & later Velondi settlers).
8. Why? The Living Greyhawk Gazetteer provides general details about the Oeridian migrations, but this rewrite distinguishes between the Aerdi/Nehri (pre-440 CY) and the Velondi (post-humanoid invasion, -100 CY to 1 CY). This correction aligns the migration timeline with Greyhawk’s broader history.
9. Added details on the humanoid invasions that destroyed the elven kingdom of Luna.
10. Why? The original text did not explain the decline of elven presence in northern Celene. The addition of the fall of Luna and Celene’s retreat south of the Kron Hills clarifies why elves abandoned their strongholds near Verbobonc during this era.
11. Expanded on the founding of "New Verboek" in 8 CY under gnome architect Snirthiglin.
12. Why? The Wayfarer’s Guide to Verbobonc briefly mentions the settlement’s history, but this rewrite deepens the role of gnomes and elves in shaping early Verbobonc. Snirthiglin’s fortification and urban planning efforts in 8 CY are now explicitly credited with modern Verbobonc’s founding.

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Sources & Acknowledgments:

✅ 3orcs' historical analyses of Greyhawk's geopolitical history and Verbobonc’s regional influence.
✅ Vecna: Genesis of a Legend by Samuel D. Weiss and Gary L. Holian, which provided critical insights into Ur-Flan civilizations, the fall of Tycheron, and Vecna's conquests.
✅ Living Greyhawk Campaign Source Material, which informed political and religious shifts within the Viscounty.
✅ The Journal of the Wanderer: The Wayfarer’s Guide to Verbobonc (Verbobonc Triad), which provided local cultural, political, and economic context.
✅ Greyhawk lore & Living Greyhawk Gazetteer, ensuring historical consistency within the official setting.

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Final Thoughts: The Importance of This Revision

These corrections not only enhance Verbobonc’s historical depth but also provide a richer understanding of the forces that shaped its early years. The Ur-Flan, Vecna, the fall of Luna, the Oeridian migrations, and the rise of New Verboek all played a role in forging Verbobonc into the city it would become.

By incorporating sources from multiple Greyhawk scholars and Living Greyhawk materials, this version presents the most comprehensive, lore-accurate history of Verbobonc to date.