Hardby Titles (Greyhawk)

Gynarch

The ultimate matriarch of Hardby and its surrounding territories. The gynarch is more than just a ruler—she embodies the legacy of her ancestors, a symbol of female power and leadership. Her rule is both political and spiritual, as she commands the respect of her people through both her wisdom and arcane prowess. Her decisions shape the destiny of the noble house and the city alike. It is almost a tradition for the Gynarch of Hardby to marry the ruler of the City of Greyhawk when that position is held by a strong candidate likely to keep it for a long time. Due to Suel inheritance laws being separate for each gender, this does not create inheritance conflicts in Hardby. It is common for an old gynarch to retire to become a magna mater and leave room for a younger gynarch when such a marriage is about to be negotiated.

Magna Matron

The economic leader of the house, second only to the gynarch in influence. The magna matron oversees the education of young nobles and preserves the traditions of their suel ancestry. Her role is deeply respected, as she serves as both oracle and protector, ensuring the strength of the family line. This role is often held by the heir apparent to the title of gynarch or by a former gynarch in retirement. The magna mater often has more power than the gynarch, specially when the gynarch is married to the ruler of Greyhawk.

Incantrix

A female military commander who embodies the union of martial skill and magical mastery. The role is vacant in peacetime, but when appointed it is for life. In practicality this title is usually given to the most powerful woman in the family, be she a warrior, wizard, or whatever, tough a combination of martial and magical skill is preferred when someone is available. The incantrix leads Hardby's armies, using her command of both the blade and arcane forces. Though she may not hold direct political power, her strategic insight and strength in battle ensure her influence within the noble house. When Hardby sends an army, the warcaster sovereign is the commander.

Lunarch

The high priestess of the moon, channeling celestial power through divine rites and arcane rituals. Traditionally a theurge serving Lendor, Luna, and Celene, though Hardby views these gods more as cosmic powers rather than divine personalities. She is entrusted with the secrets of lunar magic and guides her people through the spiritual cycles of the moon. The lunarch represents the feminine mystique, focusing on balance, intuition, and the unseen powers of nature. She is revered for her ability to interpret omens and divine futures. The lunarch is always called to a high council but rarely appears, living as a recluse focused on communing with the spirit world. A veilkeeper is sometimes promoted to lunarch, but just as often an outsider of great mystic power is promoted.

Arcanatrix

A title bestowed upon noblewomen who are the most accomplished in arcane research and spellcraft. The arcanatrix serves as a scholar of magic, but her duties extend beyond mere study—she creates and enforces magical wards around Hardby and the gynarch's house. While not involved in politics or military matters, her mastery of magic makes her a critical asset to the noble house's security.

Hearthmother

A hearthmother embodies the nurturing and familial aspects of leadership, overseeing the internal affairs of her house. Her influence is seen in her management of resources, coordination of noble feasts, and care for the women of the family. While her title is focused on domestic strength, she wields subtle but significant influence in ensuring the unity and prosperity of the house. Every major house of the gynarchy is led by a hearthmother who is responsible for the internal affairs of the house. Many are theurges of Joramy and often gain visions by gazing deeply into the hearth fire.

Veilkeeper

The veilkeeper is responsible for overseeing Hardby’s hidden mysteries, including rituals, relics, and other sacred or arcane objects. She manages the temple archives and presides over secret rituals that only noble women are permitted to perform. The title represents both scholarly devotion and mystical protection, as the veilkeeper ensures the house’s magical and historical legacy remains intact. The veilkeeper often serves as the left hand of the lunarch, dealing with day-to-day issues.

Shield Matron

A fierce protector and defender of the realm, a shield matron leads the elite guard and ensures the safety of Hardby’s borders and the gynarch’s family. They train the next generation of female warriors, emphasizing defense, unity, and loyalty. Their authority is rooted in their martial prowess, but their role is also one of mentorship and guidance. There can be up to a dozen shield matrons at a time, but this many is very rare. At least one shield matron is always on the home front, training new warriors. Additional shield matrons can be appointed to lead various forces.

Blade Sister

A younger or lower-ranking military officer who has proven herself in combat but is not yet a commander. The role is tied to ability, not to martial power. The blade sister serves under a shield matron or incantrix, undergoing rigorous training and participating in elite missions. Though she has not yet achieved high status, her role as a warrior ensures her value in both battle and the court.