Goblins

Pioneers Before the Dawn

The goblin society in Elyndor is a captivating mix of ancient Ældari customs, the unique adaptations brought about by the Sundering, as well as pre-Sundering habituations. The Ældari ancestors of the goblins where those that rejected worship of the divines and chose to leave the great flying cities to establish themselves on land, in order to avoid judgement and prejudice for choosing to venerate spirits. As adapted descendants of these Ældari outcasts, goblins have formed a distinct culture that balances old Ældari tradition with a remarkable affinity for craftsmanship, ingenuity, and an eye for opportunity.

Goblin society is organized into clans, each led by a chieftain and guided by a council of elders. Clan membership is built upon kinship, loyalty, and shared labor, though it is not uncommon for a clan to adopt non-goblins who have proven both their worth and respect for the collective. Status within the clan is earned through mastery of one of the great trades and consistent contribution to the well-being of the community. Though most goblin clans are fair and respectable, goblin culture places little stigma on professions or acts others might consider dishonorable. To a goblin, the value of an action is measured less by legality and more by intent, necessity, and benefit to the clan.

Goblins place great importance on traditional ceremonies and rituals, which form the backbone of their culture. These ceremonies are held to honor the spirits, seek their guidance, and mark significant life events such as coming of age, weddings, and funerals. Each ceremony follows a set of basic rules and traditions, but beyond that is highly tailored to the individual circumstance. The importance they place on these events comes from both a rememberance of their ancient history, and a celebration of what is to come. The sense of continuity these ceremonies give is part of what has kept them together since they first descended from the sky.

In the wake of the Sundering, goblins found themselves already on the fringes of society, where the pressing demands of survival necessitated resourcefulness and adaptability. With limited resources and a world in disarray, they learned to craft what they needed from what was available, leading to a culture of self-reliance and innovation. Over time, this pragmatic approach to crafting evolved into a deep-seated pride in their work. As skills were passed down through generations, families or apprenticeships, they were not just maintained but honed to perfection. Today, goblin craftsmanship is not just about utility but also artistry in the craft itself. Every item, whether a simple tool or an intricate device, tells a story of a people who have transformed adversity into mastery, with each creator taking immense pride in having had a hand in every aspect of their creation. A well made tool can last generations, and the mark of a great goblin craftsman is not how beautiful their creation is, but how it performs long after its creator has passed.

Goblins hold deep respect for their Ældari ancestry, despite having been ostracized by greater Ældari society. Elders are regarded as repositories of ancestral wisdom and are highly venerated for their knowledge and experience. They guide the younger generations, passing down the stories, rituals, and values that shape goblin culture. Keeping alive the knowledge of those who came before, so that future generations may learn and grow from it, is how they survived and thrived despite all their trials and tribulations.

Goblin society thrives on a sense of close-knit community and collective responsibility. Clan members work together harmoniously, pooling their skills and resources to ensure the well-being and prosperity of their community. Cooperation, loyalty, and mutual support are fundamental principles that sustain the goblin clans. It is said that it would be easier to pluck a star from the sky than to make a goblin betray their clan. Though clans may feud and have histories of animosity, they will be quick to defend each other from an outside threat.