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Cultural effect of the Twin Cataclysms
longetalos writes "The Twin
Cataclysms had a profound effect on both the Suel and the Bakluni culture – it
caused each society to have a severe backlash against their institutions for
failing to protect them. This article provides a possible outcome of that cultural shift and helps explain some of the current cultural views of those two people."
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A brief synopsis of the whaling skill
longetalos writes "This article provides some information that can be used to flesh out whalers and those that hunt other large aquatic creatures in the Flanaess. it is a blend of text from on the internet, along with some gaming information that can be adapted for the GM who wants to introduce a whaling skill to their game."
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To Spinecastle and Glory!
ArtharntheCleric writes "Caldni Vir's Charge as like Washington's Crossing of the Delaware or Yorktown, as kind of a defining military event for the myth the Aerdi have created of their superiority and prowess. And every victory needs a song ..."
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Suel Houses of the Flanaess
Theala_Sildorian writes "The Suel are a noble and haughty race. Their Great Houses spread far and wide across the Flanaess before and after the Twin Cataclysms. Learn about these Houses: where they came from, where they went, their ultimate fates."
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Tilvanot (Scarlet Brotherhood) population
Longetalos writes "The Tilvanot peninsula was once a place of mystery. That is until this article was published. Herein lies the truth of the population of that hidden land as researched by Lord Bresin -- the next Mage of Power. "
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An Alternative Linguistic History of the Flanaess
chevalier writes "Navigate treacherous linguistic waters! Ponder alternate origins of Greyhawk's languages! Consider new histories and whether they might lead to new adventures!"
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On the Trolls of the Flanaess: History, Culture and Nation
CruelSummerLord writes "“It has been said that the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again while expecting different results. Perhaps that is why those who attempt to slay trolls with swords so often prove to be madmen."
-Lord Robilar, Greyhawk adventurer and nobleman, 572 CY."
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On the Formorians of the Flanaess: History, Culture and Nation
CruelSummerLord writes "There's an old saying that you should never judge a book by its cover. In many cases that's true, but it should be noted that there is an exception to every rule. In the case of formorians, you really can judge a book by its cover.
-Seline Roas Del Cranden, adventuring wizard."
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On the Storm Giants of the Flanaess: History, Culture and Nation
CruelSummerLord writes "“It can be a lonely existence, to be sure. And yet, we would have it no other way. As violent and powerful as a storm can be, nonetheless does it play an integral role in the workings of the natural world. So too is it for we, the giants that take the storm as our name. If we may create something of lasting value to the world, whether in art and music or in battle against evil, we have lived our lives to the fullest and have no regrets when at last we expire.”
-Lord Amleth of the Seventh Harp, in reply to a human bard asking why he isolates himself from the world."
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Thunder Bow of the Rovers
wolfsire writes "The Thunder Bow of the Rovers is a minor but venerable artifact of the Rovers of the Barrens"
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On the Cloud Giants of the Flanaess: History, Culture and Nation
CruelSummerLord writes "An evil cloud giant is the only being that brutally slaughter a dozen humans, and then listen to the performance of a romantic ballad on the harp while cooking them for dinner. A good cloud giant is the only being that can paint a beautiful three-dimensional portrait of the sun rising over a pristine mountain valley, and then march off to make war on the hill giants living there, all in the same day.”-The archmage Mordenkainen, patron of the Circle of Eight."
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On the Fire Giants of the Flanaess: History, Culture and Nation
CruelSummerLord writes "“Think of steel, and you will think of a fire giant. Forged and hardened by flames, become brutal and merciless in combat, hard and inflexible in life, and possessed of incredible strength. Steel knows its place in the world, destroys or breaks under anything it conflicts, and knows no mercy or compassion. So too, then, are the fire giants.”
-Holgi Hirsute, Dwarfking of the Iron Hills."
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The Freelancers of the Waves: Slavers
Crag writes "“To sail forth seeking captives is a grand idea; provided you do not sample the merchandise too much.” --- Slave Master Teneld Embri"
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The Freelancers of the Waves: Pirates
Crag writes "To sail forth seeking fortune is a grand idea; provided you survive to spend the plunder.--- Pirate Esumund Soarick"
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The Freelancers of the Waves: Sea Rovers
Crag writes "To sail forth seeking those that have expelled us is a grand idea; provided you do not surrender to your own despair.--- Alnama Erorina Bildis"
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The Freelancers of the Waves: Corsairs
Crag writes "To sail forth seeking your fortune is a grand idea; provided one is not overly concerned about how the plunder is gained.
--- Corsair Nareh Uka"
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The Freelancers of the Waves: Buccaneers and Privateers
Crag writes ""To sail forth seeking the enemy is a grand idea; provided you have a safe harbour to spend the plunder.""
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Naval Cultures of the Flanaess: Olve Seafarers
Crag writes "“A ship should dance upon the waves with the grace of a fine lady courtier.” – Seafarer Cesceant"
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Naval Cultures of the Flanaess: Western Guardians
Crag writes "Western Guardians: “One should not fear the Dragon Turtle for its breath but for its single minded devotion to devour all in its path.” – Reis Hifawzi"
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Naval Cultures of the Flanaess - Sustenance Providers
Crag writes "Sustenance Providers: “As the land surrenders its bounty to feed the people; so will the sea.” – Hunter Chlula"
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Naval Cultures of the Flanaess - Southern Traders
Crag writes "Southern Traders: “The people that control the trade routes control Oerth.” – Brother Omessa"
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Naval Cultures of the Flanaess: Freshwater Wanderers
Crag writes "Freshwater Wanderers: “Only a fool limits his horizons and settles in one place.” – Rhennee Lord Kutal"
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Naval Cultures of the Flanaess: Northern Raiders
Crag writes "Northern Raiders: “The Northern Seas know no favorites; survival is for the strong and cunning alone.” – Jarl Adalsteinn"
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Naval Cultures of the Flanaess: Eastern Explorers
Crag writes "Eastern Explorers: “Glory and wealth await those daring enough to grasp them.” – Captain Riusmand"
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On the Drow of the Flanaess: History, Culture and Nation
CruelSummerLord writes "Pure, unsullied and total evil. As it always has been, is now, and ever more shall be. The outside resembles the inside, creatures of a self-fulfilling paradox in sheer black and white...-Excerpts from the Olven Chronicle of Summer Stars, Volume IV. "
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The Alq’abaj, A Mysterious People of the Far West
smillan_31 writes "An anecdote as related by Thiven the Elder, scribe to the last Prince and Viceroy of Nyrond."
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Songs of the Flanaess - Dwarven Opera
gvdammerung writes "The lights go down. Deep rumbling drums shake the very foundations of the earth. Powerful chords from mithral lyres shatter the darkness. In an explosion of light, sound and syncopation, the masters of rock and stone take the stage! And the diminutive audience roars! BANG YOUR HEAD! This is dwarven opera. The loudest, heaviest music in the Flanaess, the violent collision of hard rocks and screaming hot metal. Welcome to the forge!"
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Yapa Yaya: Mary Vale and the Olman of Monmurg
wolfsire writes "In CY 575, one of the most powerful persons in the Hold of the Sea Princes was an Olman woman who claimed to be a slave, Mary Vale."
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Eat Me! A Guide to Cannibalism and the Sentient Savories of the Flanaess
gvdammerung writes "Move over Emeril. Bite this Nigella. Its time to dine in the Flanaess. And your host is the ultimate Iron Chef. Its Iuz! And wait until you see what the Old One is cooking! What do you mean you’ve lost your appetite? You have it all wrong. You’re not being invited to dinner. You are dinner! BAM!"
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A Forgotten God: The Torhoon Demon
wolfsire writes "Learn herein, what little there is to know, or speculate upon, about a long forgotten god of a forgotten people, the Torhoon Demon."
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Fashion in the Flanaess - Textiles
gvdammerung writes "The Fashion in the Flanaess series of articles comes to an end with a discussion of what clothing is actually made of, particularly the high end materials. A modified pricing system for clothing is presented. You may now fully dress your character for success, or at least to leave a good looking corpse."
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Fashion in the Flanaess - Jewelry and Gemstones
gvdammerung writes "Jewelry is a fixture of royal and noble courts, as well as in many guildhalls. Jewelry is, however, distinct from gems, which are merely a component part. This article will present information such that a DM or player may create a piece of jewelry considering - precious (or semi-precious) metals, design (of which there a great many), principal and secondary (or supporting) stones, and assignment of value."
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Fashion in the Flanaess - Furs
gvdammerung writes "Except in the most primitive societies, furs rarely compose the entirty of one's wardrobe. Rather, they are accessories, sometimes practical, usually to provide warmth, but more often luxuries. Among the rich and powerful, furs are an affectation, a way to demonstrate wealth. This article will discuss furs in the World of Greyhawk fantasy setting, which is not to be confused with the real world and issues surrounding the taking and wearing of fur."
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Fashion in the Flanaess - Dyes
gvdammerung writes "Color. We take it for granted but color, of any significant hue, is the result of dye. Dyes may be commonly found but dye that will hold its color and possesses a rich vibrancy is rare indeed. This short article provides basic information about dyes in the Flanaess."
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Fashion in the Flanaess - The Baklunish
gvdammerung writes "This article looks at those fashions common in the Baklunish west and briefly explores the connection between the Baklunish states of the Flanaess and the Zindush states of Zahind."
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Fashion in the Flanaess - The Demi-Humans, Most Especially the Elves
gvdammerung writes "This article looks at demi-human fashion, which really means elven fashion, for the other demi-human races have fashions unique unto themselves or otherwise not falling within human norms. Elven fashion might well fall into this category as well were it not for elven innovations with respect to their own unique garments and their willingness to adapt otherwise purely human fashions to their own needs."
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Fashion in the Flanaess - The Western Aerdi
gvdammerung writes "Fashion in the Flanaess - The Western Aerdi looks at the fashions of Furyondy, Veluna, Verbobonc, Dyvers and Perrenland etc. - Old Ferrond. Western Aerdi Fashion is arguably the most elaborate in the Flanaess, drawing from historic fashions in France, Germany and England. If there is a center for fashion innovation, it is in the Aerdi West. Presented are male, female and unisex garments as well as direct inheritances from the Aerdi East, most notably the old Great Kingdom."
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Fashion in the Flanaess - The Eastern Aerdi
gvdammerung writes "Continuing the Fashion in the Flanaess series (previous entries included the Flan and the Suel), this article looks at the Eastern Aerdi of Nyrond and the successor states of the Great Kingdom. Modelled predominantly after the dress of Byzantium, Eastern Aerdi fashion is arguably the most ornate in the Flanaess. Presented are male, female and unisex wardrobes."
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Postfest V, Part III: The Devas: For the Love of Mankind
CruelSummerLord writes ""What a strange creature man is! Both good and evil, neither good nor evil, and everything in between."- Bjornungard of Everreach, storm giant philosopher."
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On the Gnolls of the Flanaess: History, Culture and Nation
CruelSummerLord writes ""Gnolls will kill and eat anything that opposes them. They will kill and eat old members of their clan who can no longer provide for themselves. And, they will kill and eat the weak and crippled among their own young if they have no other food. I must say, I find something truly admirable in that."-Iuz, Lord of Pain."
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Postfest V, Part II: Admiral's Day
gvdammerung writes "The fleet is in and it is time to celebrate all things nautical! Admiral's Day gives the navies of the Flanaess their due."
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Postfest V, Part II: The Baal Fires of the Sheldomar
gvdammerung writes "When fires burn bright from the peaks of the Lortmils and are answered in kind from atop the Good Hills and Stark Mounds, the autumn of the year has come. Once, however, these celebratory fires held a far different, far from celebratory, meaning. In ages long past, when the Baal Fires were lit, the tramp of dwarven boots could heard throughout the Sheldomar. The Dwarf Lords were on the march."
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Postfest V, Part II: Burning Bartle
gvdammerung writes "In rural Keoland, a rough justice is meted out to criminals. There are no jails or prisons, for none are needed. Burning Bartle celebrates the spectacular end one notorious criminal."
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Postfest V, Part II: Riding the Marches
gvdammerung writes "The Riding of the Marches is a civic festival practiced most famously in the marches of Keoland - the Yeomanry, Sterich, Geoff, the Gran March and Bissel. While performing a military function designed to limit monstrous interference with agriculture, the Riding of the March is also cause for much local celebration."
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Postfest V, Part II: Bawming the Thorne
gvdammerung writes "The druidic past of Veluna lives on in the annual Bawming of the Thorne in Devarnish. Now, just a local holiday, the Bawming of the Thorne dates from the time when the Great Western Forest of the Flanaess streched from Celene to Highfolk."
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Postfest V, Part II: The Beaste Faire of Greyhawk
gvdammerung writes "Come one! Come all! To the most spectacular, the most unusual, the most phantasmagorical faire of them all - the Beaste Faire of Greyhawk. See the fell dragon! See beautiful pegasi! See the amazing blink dog! Plus many, many more. And all are for sale! Just the thing for the wizard who has everything."
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Postfest V, Part II: Beating the Bounds
gvdammerung writes "A civic holiday throughout much of the Flanaess, Beating the Bounds serves the useful function of establishing property boundaries. It is also the excuse for an unofficial parade."
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Postfest V, Part II: Burning the Old Year Out
gvdammerung writes "Uhl''nehli''aah, the Burning of the Old Year Out, is a widely celebrated fire festival among the northern barbarians. It is a time of riotous behavior. Children conceived or born during this time are believed to possess special attributes. But while the children of the flames are celebrated, beware the bastard children of the fire."
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Postfest V, Part II: The Caltaran Horse Fair
gvdammerung writes "The greatest horse market of the Flanaess is also the greatest gathering of thieves. Come join the Attloi, Rhennee and the halflings in appraising the finest horseflesh, but guard your purse!"
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Postfest V, Part II: The Court of Array
gvdammerung writes "The Courts of the Array are civic holidays that serve the military purpose of drilling the peasant militia and ensuring a minimal level of military prepardedness. After a day of inspections, drills and mock combats, the peasants of the militia are treated to a banquet at their lord's expense. It is a day of training but also a day of much camaraderie and good fellowship."
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Postfest V, Part II: Courts Leet and Baron
gvdammerung writes "The manor is the basic economic unit of feudal society and is composed of a variety of types of land. Much of the land on a manor is held in common and is used by all of the manor's residents. It is necessary to regulate this use and ensure the maintenance of these common holdings. This is the function of Courts Leet and Baron. The holding of the Courts is, however, attended by various other activities that transform a necessity into a holiday."
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Postfest V, Part II: Crabapple Fairs
gvdammerung writes "Dwarves and gnomes love crabapples, using them in all manner of viands and potations. Crabapple Fairs celebrate the annual harvest of these fruits that humans find unpalatable. A general market usually accompanies the Crabapple Fairs, at which "gurning" competitions may be the highlight, along with a variety of unique footraces."
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Postfest V, Part II: The Eye of Grummsh
gvdammerung writes "Beware. When the Eye of Grummsh looks upon you, bloody ruin follows."
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Postfest V, Part II: Feast of All Souls
gvdammerung writes "Its time to offer prayers for the dead. Who you gonna pray too? Pelor? Not likely. Its time to worship Wee Jas, Nerull and Incabulous. These and other deities of death have their day of veneration and everyone offers up their worship. Or faces the the consequences."
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Postfest V, Part II: Feast of the Gods
gvdammerung writes "Let's see. About 150 deities in the Flanaess. One feast day per deity. In cosmopolitian areas that would work out to nearly half a year of feast days! Of course, not every deity is worshipped everywhere, but still. There should be another way. There is."
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Postfest V, Part II: The Festival of Well-Dressing
gvdammerung writes "Water is life. This is particularly true in the parched lands of the Baklunish West. Geshtai, Goddess of Lakes, Rivers and Wells is most often celebrated in well-dressing rituals, wherein local wells are blessed each year. One of the greatest of such ceremonies is that of Vilayad in the Tusman Hills."
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Postfest V, Part II: The Gran National
gvdammerung writes "And they're off! Welcome to the greatest horse race in the Flanaess! A steeplechase, the Gran National attracts horses and riders from across the Sheldomar Valley and beyond. Only by functioning in perfect tandem can a horse and rider prevail. The sport of kings is enjoyed by throngs of onlookers every year in Hookhill, with lesser steeplechases popular throughout the Gran March, Bissel and Keoland."
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Postfest V, Part II: The Great Western Rendezvous
gvdammerung writes "Furs. Luxury items on a par with fine gemstones. The best are only found far from civilization. In the spring of each year, the fur trappers and hunters emerge from the wilderness to sell their pelts and resupply for the next year. Most may not have seen another human being for months. Its a party!"
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Postfest V, Part II: The Knighthood of the Old Green
gvdammerung writes "Knights - shinning armor? Lance dipped for the charge, or sword held aloft? Not necessarily. The Knights of the Old Green wield a most unusual weapon and engage in combat like no other. And every year, the Knighthood of the Old Green may be contested by anyone up to the challenge. But be wary, because it can be quite embarrassing to be trounced by a spry octogenarian, who you must then address as "Sir" for a year and a day, until next the Knighthood of the Old Green is contested."
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Postfest V, Part II: The Installation of the Lord Mayor of Kalstrand
gvdammerung writes "Hear Ye, Hear Ye! By Imperial Proclamation and Royal Decree, let it be known that on this day the Guildmasters of Kalstrand, have met and by vote selected one from among their Number; Kalstrand has a Lord Mayor! Vivat! Vivat! Vivat! On the 26th of Coldeven, she shall make her way through the City and be Installed. All hail! The Lord Mayor of Kalstrand!"
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Postfest V, Part II: The Lost in the Dark Bells
gvdammerung writes "For who do the bells of Shiboleth toll? It is said they toll for the strangers, nearly lost upon the Rushmoors. Darker stories hint that the bells ring lest Shiboleth itself become lost in the ominous fogs that rise each evening in the autumn part of the year. The truth is murky. Listen for the bells, lest you become forever lost in the fog-shrouded darkness."
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Postfest V, Part II: The Miner's Fair
gvdammerung writes "Up from the hollows and down from the mountains they come. Dirty. Mean. Looking for a good time after the hardest kind of work. They are also loaded with valuable ore. This ain't no tea or social. Its the Miner's Fair of Verbeeg Hill and its as rough as it comes."
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Postfest V, Part II: Postfest V, Part II: Mock Mayor Holidays
gvdammerung writes "In Veluna City, the City of Greyhawk and Irongate, Mock Mayors once each year overturn the usual order to celebrate, ridicule and make licentious riot. Come Festivale!"
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Postfest V, Part II: The Night of Fear
gvdammerung writes "The origins of the Night of Fear are known throughout the Flanaess as few, if any, other historic events are known or remembered. It is, perhaps, the only universal holiday. While its observance now varies, its origins remain undimmed in the public consciousness. Woe betide should the Great Eye again lift its red lid."
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Postfest V, Part II: Northern Sword Dancing
gvdammerung writes "Bodies and blades, moving to the beat of the drum or the piping of a flute, fly through the snowy air like steel snowflakes. Each pass of the dancers, each pass of the blades courts disaster but accidents are rare. Sword dancing is a tradition in the northlands of Aerdi and once each year a great competition is held. You are invited to attend."
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Postfest V, Part II: The Reception of Ambassadors
gvdammerung writes "An embassy from one nation to another is much more than a matter of showing up at court. Ambassadors must be formally received and their credentials accepted before the embassy can be begun. In the Great Kingdom and now in its chiefmost successor state - Ahlissa - ambassadorial receptions are grand affairs, unlike anything found anywhere else."
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Postfest V, Part II: The Red Horse Race
gvdammerung writes "Organized foot races, once common among the Flan, are much more rarely encountered now. The most famous foot race is no longer dominated by the Flan, although many Flan enter. Run as a relay, the Red Horse Race of Ratik tests teams of runners in a grueling race over long cross-country distances."
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Postfest V, Part II: The Royal Hunt
gvdammerung writes "The sound of the horns and the baying of the hounds signal the start of the hunt. But his is no ordinary chase. The king has taken the field with his nobles attendant upon him!"
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Postfest V, Part II: The Royal Progress
gvdammerung writes "Guess who's coming to dinner? The King! And he may be staying awhile after. A few days? A few weeks? A few months? Better have plenty of fine wine, fine victuals and plenty of entertainment laid on. And of course, you get to pick up the tab! Lucky you. Must have done something special to deserve such royal treatment. Heh."
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Postfest V, Part II: Rushbearing & Haystrewing
gvdammerung writes "The gathering of rushes and hay to provide floor coverings is an ancient tradition. In all but the most primitive areas, it is now largely a symbolic festival. It remains a common celebration, however, that sees a notable cooperation between druids and the clerics of the gods."
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Postfest V, Part II: The Silver Arrows
gvdammerung writes "Arrows streak to their targets. Throughout the Great Glen of the Gnarly Forest, elf and man are met to celebrate perhaps the greatest archers to be found in an annual celebration of surpassing fine skill. To the winners are given silver arrows from the hand of Lady of Celene herself."
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Postfest V, Part II: Sorcerer's Night
gvdammerung writes "In the last rays of the setting sun, fear closes in. One night each year, the darkness breathes and feeds upon the unwary. Divine power wanes while the arcane waxes. The night of no moons holds a special terror for the Flanaess. Pray for the light."
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Postfest V, Part II: Summer Carnival
gvdammerung writes "Come one! Come all! Summer Carnival beckons! And it is three events in one. A true carnival. A mercantile fair. And a grand tourney. Greatly anticipated by all classes, the Summer Carnival offers something for practically every taste."
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Postfest V, Part II: The Timberland Festival
gvdammerung writes "TIMBER! Well. Maybe. The elves may have more than a little to say about unrestricted logging. It is a festival but behind the scenes, conflicting interests annually clash over the timber harvest."
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Postfest V, Part II: Tolling the Devil's Knell
gvdammerung writes "In Nessermouth, Black Tom rings the Devil''s Knell each year upon the 2nd of Readying. Born of accursed Soothill, Black Tom is said to lay to rest the restless dead when he rings out. Older, darker tales hint at other things from the ancient past, driven from the shore by the ringing of the black bell."
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Postfest V, Part II: Turning the Devil's Stone
gvdammerung writes "The Devil's Stone rests unquiet in Uskarn in southern Nyrond. Every year, its great mass must be moved and the stone turned, or else evil will grow in the land. So say the legends. The dark rock defies the curious to resolve it mystery."
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Postfest V, Part II: Wikrhys
Duicarthan writes "The chill breezes of autumn carry with it the holiday of Wikryhs. A wondrous night when Luna shines full in the sky, while the inhabitants share in celebration or lament throughout the Flanaess."
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Postfest V, Part II: Winter Carnival
gvdammerung writes "In the coldest months of winter, in northern climes where winter is at its coldest, it is good to have something to celebrate, even if it is the ice and snow. This is the essence of Winter Carnival. It is an occasion to celebrate at a time of year when there may be little else to do other than shiver."
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Postfest V, Part II: The Woodmen of the Vesve's Grand Wardmote
gvdammerung writes "The Grand Wardmote has come. Part military exercise, part parliament of the wood, men and elves of the Vesve come together at the Wardmote to confront a common enemy - Iuz - and his humanoid allies."
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Postfest V, Part II: Wroth Silver
gvdammerung writes "The western extent of the Duchy of Urnst is cattle country. Yeoman herders make up the majority of the population, rather than the more typical peasants toiling in the field. By ancient tradition, the yeoman swear allegience to the Duke each year, drinking his health, after Wroth Silver has been paid."
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Postfest V, Part II: Wealsun Mumming
gvdammerung writes "Each year the Church of St. Cuthbert entertains throngs with mumming plays retelling the fall of Iuz. With audience participation, Iuz is annually vanquished. The lesson is simple. Even the most common person can make a successful stand against evil."
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On the Bugbears of the Flanaess: History, Culture and Nation
"Why spend precious lives in deadly frontal attacks, when stealth, cunning and alliance brings more victory for less cost?"-Old bugbear adage.
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Languages of the Flanaess
pykm writes "The Flanaess is home to myriad cultures, each with its own dialect, and often this creates confusion both for well travelled adventurers and the Players and DMs using the setting. Herein lies a more detailed and realistic language structure for the Flanaess."
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Postfest V: The Greyhawk Guild of Thieves
CruelSummerLord writes "Steal everything of value that isn't nailed down. If you have a crowbar, be sure and steal everything of value that is nailed down. - Motto of the Greyhawk Guild of Thieves"
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Postfest V: The People of the Testing
CruelSummerLord writes ""Wait for the One True King. Only he can unite us now." - An unnamed gray elf, when asked by his granddaughter what could be done to mend the schisms that tore the elven race apart, and had ruined the possibility of elves being a united people living in harmony."
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Postfest V: The Scarlet Brotherhood
CruelSummerLord writes ""Everything lost, everthing gained? At what price? Is it justified? Do the ends justify the means?"-Questions asked by all that know of the Scarlet Sign."
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Postfest V: The Syndicate of Midnight - Part I of II.
Delglath writes "The Syndicate of Midnight is the new incarnation of an insidious assassin's cult that was once known as 'Midnight Darkness'."
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On the Hobgoblins of the Flanaess: History, Culture and Nation
CruelSummerLord writes ""Hobgoblins..the only race to create surprisingly well-crafted poetry that serves no better purpose than to teach its listeners to kill, murder, and pillage."-the Archmage Mordenkainen"
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On the Kobolds of the Flanaess: History, Culture and Nation
CruelSummerLord writes ""As feeble as rats, as cowardly as rabbits, and with more grudges than ten times their number in dwarves" - The Archmage Bigby, on kobolds."
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On the Ogres of the Flanaess: History, Culture and Nation
CruelSummerLord writes ""Eat! Smash! Kill!" - excerpted from "Religious Beliefs of the Humanoids of the Flanaess" by the Savant-Sage Iquander, City of Greyhawk."
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Fashion in the Flanaess - The Suel
gvdammerung writes "Fashion in the the Flanaess - The Suel presents the traditional garments worn by the Suel in the old Imperium and in the successor state of Keoland. Fashion reflects climate and the Suel dressed practically for almost uniformly warm weather. Where the Suel have migrated to more northern climes, they have had to adapt. Traditional garb remains, however, even if in modified form, perhaps only worn at court. At the same time, where the Suel have mixed with other cultures, fashions have also mixed and been adapted. Dress for success. Suel fashions can appear deceptively simple. You are not really going to wear THAT to court are you?"
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Fashion in the Flanaess - The Flan
gvdammerung writes "The Fashion in the Flanaess Series looks at various racial, cultural and regional clothing styles, as well as materials and adornments. Fashion in the Flanaess - The Flan looks at what is a common denominator of fashion, too often the lowest common denominator, in the Flanaess. For the Flan are a people now too often little more than peasants in lands they once ruled. While a few cultural enclaves survive, they are the exception. In many areas, Flan fashion is peasant fashion."
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Legacy of the Olman Empire 1: Tamoachan and the Origin of the Olman People
chatdemon writes "The mighty Olman empire, though now a mere memory to the people of the Amedio, was once one of the most powerful nations in Oerik, rivalling perhaps even the Suloise and Baklunish realms of legend. But where did the people who built it come from? Here's a new look at that question, reviewing the source material and offering a fresh interpretation of the clues."
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On the Goblins of the Flanaess: History, Culture and Nation
CruelSummerLord writes ""Many among us are indeed stupid; use that to your advantage. Fool the bigger and stronger races into underestimating you. Use this fact also to be rid of those who would replace you, or control them, whichever serves you better. It serves well to keeping our people in line, given the power they wield over you. Remember the power held by other goblins, as you must not only manipulate your own political power wisely, but also how other goblins use their own powers."-excerpted from Memoirs for the Kings of Goblinaragard, written by Juk’jorun’uglar I, conqueror and first king of Goblinaragard."
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On the Orcs of the Flanaess: History, Culture and Nation
CruelSummerLord writes "I never met an orc so perverse as to treat his mate with respect, so insane that he would favor peace over war, or so twisted in his heart to suffer an orc of another tribe to live. Such orcs exist, perhaps, in the mythology and religion of their race; they are clearly examples of what not to do if you want to avoid the orcish version of hell." - Querchard, former Marquis of Sterich and bard extraordinaire"
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Peasant Classes in the Flanaess
GVDammerung writes "You've seen them out in the fields as your character rides by. They are spat upon by nobles. Ridden down by cavalry. Ravaged by humanoids. Dull. Ignorant. Superstitious. Often drunk. Given to uprisings and quick resort to torches and pitchforks if a spell does more than make some dancing lights appear. They are peasants! And its high time you got to know them. They are everywhere but are pretty easy to ignore. How is one sort different from another and what difference does that make? Find out! Just don't call them serfs!"
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Humanoid Cuisine
Muscles writes "So what's so evil about the humanoid races of Greyhawk? Well, you are what you eat."
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The Greyhawk Travel Guide, Part V
CruelSummerLord writes "The Greyhawk Travel Guide concludes, appropriately enough, with a discussion on travel in the wilderness..."
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The Greyhawk Travel Guide, Part IV
CruelSummerLord writes "How are magic, religion and technology dealt with in the Flanaess? Read on and find out!"
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The Greyhawk Travel Guide, Part III
CruelSummerLord writes "How do the professions and classes we see in the Flanaess influence its events and how it carries on?"
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The Greyhawk Travel Guide, Part II
CruelSummerLord writes "An examination of the daily life of the Flanaess, in all its many forms..."
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The Greyhawk Travel Guide, Part I
CruelSummerLord writes "How often has the daily life of the Flanaess been examined? The minutiae of politics? The ways that the various professions interact with the world around them? Matters of sanitation? Wealth? Magic and the wilderness?"
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The Tribes of Occupied Ulek
DangerDwarf writes "Fighting continues on the western front of the Orcish Empire as the dwarves of Ulek refuse to give up their tenacious offensive to reclaim their lost land. Who are these orcs that have managed to hold the Despot’s western border?"
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The Ways of the Sons of Winter
wykthor writes "The monks of this prestige class are part of a small and descentralized order, whose goal is
their personal view of the perfect body, trying to make it as close as possible as the incarnation of winter, of the cold and the mountain's icy wind. As a Son of Winter evolve in their lessons, they become gradually closer to their philosophy. Finally, when he/she reaches absolute mastery, it can no longer be considered a humanoid, rather a being whose relationship with cold and ice imposes respect even at a frost giant. In order to achieve all this, however, they must endure a very strict philosophy and undertake tests of admission that can easiliy kill unworthy candidates."
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The Rite of Battle Fitness Revealed
CruelSummerLord writes "The Rite of Battle Fitness has been mentioned by everyone from Xagyg to Sargent Silver to Iquander as a brutal and bloody spectacle conducted by the inhabitants of the Hold of Stonefist, now the kingdom of Stonehold to choose their leadership. However, no one has yet described what challengers must actually do in order to succeed at the Rite. There is far more too it than a simple battle royale..."
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The Trolls of Oerth
Argon writes "This speculative article discusses an alternate origin of the troll race. Many people assume that trolls are mindless greenskinned carrot nosed monsters. These are not trolls they speak of, but rather a bastard race which is nothing like a true troll. Trolls have honor and are rumored to be one of the first races of Oerth. The people of the Sheldomar Valley know well this truth as some of their culture has mimicked the trolls own society. The following article will discuss the connection of the gnomish and trollish races as well as the dreaded spriggan. Although this article was written for a second edition game, you will find that it is a rules light article adaptable into campaigns of any edition."
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The Emerald Conclave
skye_feydark writes "Think the Old Faith is all there is to Druids in the Sheldomar Valley? Think again! Come learn the secrets of a lesser known society, the Emerald Enclave of Ulek."
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Dwarves of the Flanaess
Scottenkainen writes "The Dwarves of Oerth have been often neglected in canon, so one is left wondering just what they have to offer a campaign. Wonder no more! Herein lies a close examination of the culture of one of the Flanaess' most interesting people."
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The Gnomes of Oerth
Argon writes "Of all the civilized peoples of the Flanaess, Gnomes are the most often misunderstood and overlooked, until now! Learn about the fascinating history, mythology and culture of these folk in this in depth treatise. (Presented in AD&D 2nd Edition game stats, but somewhat rules-lite and easily compatible with any system.)"
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The Great Kingdom - Baron Malkonian
MerricB writes "This article gives the text of a letter from a travelling scholar that has somehow come down to our own age from the Age of Magic on Oerth. It is dated some time towards the end of the Great Kingdom's reigh, and details some of the intrigues and politics of the eastern realm."
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The Elves of Oerth
Argon writes "The following is a 2nd Edition rendering of The Elves of Oerth. If you have a copy of the Complete Book of Elves 2nd Edition then some of the Elvin abilities listed will be easily identified for you.
Some stories have been written from the author's point of view, but what author can write of a race that existed centuries before mankind? One who was their when mankind was born. The Elves of Oerth describes the various races of elves on Oerth, their customs, nature,beliefs,mtyhology, and much more. So take a peek and find that their is more to the Elves then what man-kind gets to see."
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The Dwarves of Oerth
Argon writes "The following is a 2nd edition based archive on the Dwarves of Oerth. Some material has been borrowed from other resources while most has been my version of these great people of the Flanaess.
From the time when Dragons and Giants were first to claim rule of Oerth. A race breed from the very palate of the world was born. These diminitive giants,show a brief claim to their history in the Flanaes and where they see themselves in this human dominated world."
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On the Halfings of the Flaness: History, Culture and Nation
CruelSummerLord writes "In the final dispatch upon the demihumans of the Flanaess, the Brother of the Cruel Summer discourses upon the small folk known as the hobniz."
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On the Elves of the Flanaess: History, Culture and Nation
CruelSummerLord writes "In the second part of his treatise on Flanaess demihumans, the Brother of the Cruel Summer examines those mysterious people known as the olve."
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On the Gnomes of the Flanaess: History, Culture and Nation
CruelSummerLord writes "In part three of his series of dispatches on the demihumans of the Flanaess, the Brother of the Cruel Summer speaks upon the people known as the noniz..."
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On the Dwarves of the Flanaess: History, Culture and Nation
CruelSummerLord writes "Few articles in the vast repetoire of Greyhawk knowledge have examined the demihumans of the Flanaess in particular. In the first of a four-part series, the Brother of the Cruel Summer examines that bearded race known as the dwur."
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The Suel Kingdoms of the North: Class and Society on the Thillonrian Peninsula
raphael writes "A discussion of the Suel barbarian societies of the Thillonrian Peninsula noting their system of governance and class divisions.
Author: raphael"
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Death in the Olvenfolk Society
MichaelSandar writes "Elven emotions as death occurs are quite different from those of the human population on Oerth...Author: Michael Sandar"
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Keoish Brandy
OldManReaver writes "Rescued from the original AOL message boards almost six years ago, here is the story of undoubtedly the finest brandy in the Flanaess.
It seems like yesterday ...
Author: OldManReaver"
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Ecology of the Flanaess Orc
Longetalos writes "A treatise on the cultures, dietary habits and societies of the orcs of the Flanaess, inspired by discussions on the GreyTalk discussion list.
Author: Longetalos"
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Bardic Colleges of Oerth
Longetalos writes "Although everyone who has ever walked Oerth knows of bards, few know how they are organized. This article will reveal the beliefs and mores of the largest of the bardic colleges available in the Flanaess.
Author: Longetalos"
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The Heart of the Wolf
vladimirsusthiat writes "Strange, it seems only at first, to find beauty in something so fierce. Yet I know now that I had left the comfortable realms of the south years ago in such of that very thing. In the barren steppes of the north live the feral Wegwiur, hardened by an unforgiving climate and made ferocious by an unyielding desire for once was. I only return to the southern lands to share with you their story. But I warn it is a story ultimately about love, for their is no escape from the beauty of their fiercenss, when one beholds the heart of the Wolf.
Lady Aurelina
Author: vladimirsusthiat"
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Ancient Bakluni Astrology
Entropist writes "I am dreaming an economy
made out of fibers of light--
'Light upon light!'
--a world where my mind melds
into the fabric of being."
Soban-Flammel-Ban, circa -700 CY
--Ancient Bakluni metaphysician, astrologer, mathematician, poet
Author: Entropist"
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The Wines of Oerik - Part Two: Celene and the Wild Coast
Alasdair writes "This is part two of my attempt to add a bit more flavour to Greyhawk. Let me know how you like it, and I promise to get the third part out much quicker this time!
Author:Alasdair"
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How to Roleplay a Dwarf
Longetalos writes "Among demi-humans, the dwarven people are the most similar in their business ethics, at least the good ones, to the humans that share their world. These similarities have allowed much trade to flourish between the two races.
Author: Longetalos"
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Medieval Cooking and Eating Habits
shakey writes "Food. Something everyone needs. Something that plays at least a small part of every adventure. Yet, often overlooked as a potential source of color, or possibly even wealth by most.
Author: Shakey"
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The Wines of Oerik - Part One: The Highvale
Alasdair writes "This article is an attempt to add a little more colour to Greyhawk. Take it as you wish, and feel free to use as much or as little in your campaign as you’d like. I’d like to credit many of the names in here to the “Everchanging Book of Names”, and the rest to selected wine books (many of which are chock-full of odd names that I use in my campaign….).
Comments are more than welcome. If I get a good response to this, I’ll post what I've got on some of the other regions as well.
Author: Alasdair."
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How to Roleplay a Gnome
Longetalos writes "The gnomish people are some of the most interesting and respected races on Oerth. They get along very well with humans, elves, dwarves and halflings by stint of having something in common with each of these races.
Author: Longetalos"
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How to Roleplay an Elf
Longetalos writes "The elven people are different in many ways to the humans that share their world. These differences have led to many instances of aggression and distrust between the two races. But at the most basic level both races have much in common and as such have successfully built strong friendships throughout time.
Author: Longetalos"
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Considerations of the Ho-Jebline
Discovered in a scroll case the morning after Reynard of Waybury was murdered in his bed, the author of this treatise may have been the same olven assassin. Tanya of Ehlenestra translated the scroll from the olve-vocca, 25 Sunsebb C.Y. 582
Author: MTG
Note: Sheldomar,
Ulek,
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Gnomes of the Flanaess
One of the least understood, and most horribly stereotyped races of the Flanaess, the gnomes are often ignored and underused. Presented here is another look at this once forgettable demihuman race, painting them in a slightly different light and trying to break some of the goofy stereotypes that have grown up around them.
Author: Scott "Volstagg" Casper (scvolstagg@visto.com)
Note: Demihumans, Gnomes, Races
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Dwarves of the Flanaess
The Dwarves are one of the more reclusive of the races of
the Flanaess, often locking themselves away from others in their
mountain and hillside fortress-cities. Outsiders often know little
about the stout dwur. Presented here is one version of these sometimes
mysterious demihumans, an attempt to give them the treatment they
deserve as one of the major races of the Flanaess.
Author: Scott "Volstagg" Casper (scvolstagg@visto.com)
Note: Demihumans, Dwarves, Races
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The Sud Graufult: The Harashim
Taras writes "Over much of the Flanaess, the people who gave it their name, the Flan, were exterminated, absorbed, conquered, and had their cultural identity eradicated in the face of the stronger Suel and Oerids. In some areas, however, the Flan remained strong and kept their cultural identy. One such group is the Harashim, who live among the lands of Ahlissa and the Iron Leage.
Author: Taras Guarhoth (montand@canonfire.com)"
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