General description

“Goblinoids” is a collective term for three related races: the small and chaotic goblins, the disciplined and cunning hobgoblins, and the large, brutish bugbears. Despite their differences, they share a common origin in the Feywild. Long ago, they served an Archfey, until Maglubiyet—destined to become the god of goblinoids—slew their patron and bound them to his will. Under his dominion, goblinoids became a formidable threat to Kildar, until the guilds struck back and forced them into servitude under the Farmers Guild.

It was much later when goblins managed to rebel and migrate south, where they founded the city of Anfyn, which soon became the heart of their culture and devotion to their new patron, Lady Elaine. As an Archfey herself, she restored their lost fey heritage and offered protection to all who suffered oppression. United under her banner, goblins, hobgoblins, and bugbears fought once more for their freedom—this time against the orcs—and triumphed.

Since then, goblinoids have been able to rebuild their lives. Many remained in Anfyn, while others spread across Kildar, carving new paths for themselves as free people rather than slaves.

Species

Goblins

Among the goblinoids, goblins are the smallest in stature but the most numerous. The vast majority live in Anfyn under the patronage of Lady Elaine, serving her by waging war on anything they perceive as oppression. In practice, this often means “expropriating” goods from merchant caravans and ships, which they justify as resistance against the guilds and their capitalist influence. Outside of Anfyn, goblins adapt quickly to their surroundings and can be found in nearly every economic sector—though most often as merchants (peddling goods of questionable morality, quality, or both) or as agents in the criminal underworld.

Goblins are infamous for their cowardice and reliance on numbers and ambushes. While not generally known for great intellect, they are undeniably resourceful and possess an instinct for dirty tricks. In Anfyn, this is made even more dangerous by the goblins’ connection to Fey magic, creating a volatile and unpredictable mix—sometimes even for the goblins themselves.

Hobgoblins

Hobgoblins are dark orange or red-orange goblinoids, larger than goblins but smaller than bugbears, making them comparable in size to humans or elves. Unlike their kin, they build societies with a higher level of development and organization. Disciplined and law-abiding, hobgoblins possess extensive knowledge in crafting military equipment, including high-quality siege engines, and are generally far more intelligent and strategic than their siblings.

However, this discipline became a challenge when goblinoids returned under the patronage of Lady Elaine. The chaotic and unpredictable nature of fey society clashes with hobgoblins’ structured way of life. As a result, they were the largest goblinoid group to leave Anfyn, seeking new lives across Kildar. Those who remain in Anfyn often take leadership roles, such as captains of “pirate” ships, but even then they struggle to maintain order under the overwhelming chaotic influence of Lady Elaine.

Bugbears

Bugbears are the largest of the goblinoids, though also the rarest. Despite their imposing size and strength, they are renowned for their extraordinary stealth. Somehow, they can squeeze themselves into spaces that appear far too small for their bulk. Relying heavily on ambush tactics and their keen sense for hunting, bugbears are masters of surprise. It is often said that if you’ve spotted a bugbear, it’s already too late - you are most likely caught in its trap.

These talents, however, are offset by their wild nature and notorious laziness. Most bugbears care only for food, drink, and perhaps something shiny to hoard. They usually live in loose tribes, and there is little difference between those who dwell near the Feylands of Anfyn and those scattered across the rest of Kildar. In many ways they can be compared to animals, driven by instinct rather than ambition. Yet, on the rare occasions when a bugbear rises above its society and indolence, it often proves capable of remarkable achievements in its chosen field.