Hardby Titles (Greyhawk)

Developed from Dungeon magazine #109.

Hardby is at present not independent, ruled by the oligarchy of the Dominion of Greyhawk since the war. The oligarchy controls the city of Hardby, which has grown considerably, profiting from expanding trade on the Selintan. The gynarchy controls the hinterland, which means they control the local food supply and patrols the rather dangerous borders. The palace of the gynarchy is in the old quarter of Hardby, and each house controls at least once palace. The two groups cooperate well, and intermarriage is frequent.

Noble Titles

These posts are always held by nobles of the six families; Norbelos, Gerenskir, Jonnish, Havelos, Maynem, and Maynem, this last house raised to gynarch rank in 352 when house Yagrene ended with Zagig.

Despotrix

The ultimate matriarch of Hardby and its surrounding territories. It is almost universal for the Despotrix to also be a Hearthmother of one of the houses, and it is traditional for the oldest Hearthmother to become Despotrix upon the death of the old ruler. This tradition is often overlooked, particularly in times of danger or when demanded by the city's relationship to Greyhawk, see below.

The Despotrix 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 a tradition for the Despotrix of Hardby to marry the ruler of the City of Greyhawk when that position is held by a strong ruler likely to keep it for a long time. An old Despotrix may retire to the position of Hearthmother toleave room for a younger Despotrix when such a marriage is about to be negotiated. Due to Suel inheritance being separate for each gender, this does not create inheritance conflicts in Hardby.

House Gynarch or Hearthmother

The leader of one of the six houses, second only to the Despotrix in influence. As 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. As a House Gynarch she oversees the education of young nobles and preserves the traditions of their Suel ancestry. This role is deeply respected, as she serves as both oracle and protector, ensuring the strength of the family line.

Gynarch

The parliament of Hardby consists of the Despotrix and 39 Gynarchs. Each of the six houses appoints 6 Gynarchs, led by the House Gynarch of each house. The Despotrix appoints three additional Gynarchs, and can usually count of the six Gynarchs of her own house. Rule is supposed to be by consensus, so in teory each Gynarch has a veto. In practice the Council of Gynarchs is only advisory, Gynarchs who do not agree with current policy can be replaced or sent away on various missions, but few Despotrixes will oppose a majority in the council.

Didatrix

The Despotrix and each Gynarch appoints a Didatrix as a personal aide, secretary, and annalist. These are young nobles, often ambitious and trying to push their Gynarch and family's position as a way to elevate themselves. This is expected, and the Gynarchs keep an eye on this activity, often letting an overly ambitious Didatrix suffer the consequences of her own intrigues.

Other Titles

The following titles are often held by various Gynarchs, rarely by an appointee from outside the noble houses. It is unusual that either the Despotrix or House Gynarchs hold these posts as they are busy with their other responsibilities, but it does happen. These titles can and often are held by male nobles from within the gynarchy. Titles are given in rough order of precedence.

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 practice, this title is usually given to the most powerful woman in the gynarchy, be she a warrior, wizard, or whatever, though a combination of martial and magical skill is preferred when 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 Incantrix 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 Despotrix'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.

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 rank roughly equivalent to colonel, a Shield Matron is a fierce protector and defender of the realm, who leads the elite guard and ensures the safety of Hardby’s borders and the Despotrix’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 title roughly equivalent to lieutenant, usually a younger noble to who has proven herself in combat but is not yet a commander. The role is tied to ability, not to martial power. A Blade Sister serves directly under a Shield Matron or the Incantrix, undergoing rigorous training and participating in elite missions. Though she has not yet achieved high status, her role as a noble combatant ensures her value in both battle and the court.