In this version of Greyhawk there will be two factions of Heironeans who are rivals.

Darling Fetch the Battle Axe.

The oldest faction are those who are called the “Axe-wielders” and sometimes the Grognards. They are the Old Guard Heironeans who insist that Heironeous’ primary weapon is the battleaxe and that though he may use a sword as well it is the battleaxe which is the true weapon of Heironeous. These Grognards are usually from conservative nobility of the status of baron and above though some others have joined this faction as well. They tend to stress the themes of war, daring, and valor and believe that the Heironeans should be proactively engaged in fighting evil.

The “Sword-wielders” or “Peace Keepers” insist that the true weapon of Heironeous is the longsword which represents the more elegant and noble side of Heironeous. They are found among the minor nobility, especially those who have been newly raised to that rank for military and non-military contributions. In both cases, they are those who would most likely be on the front lines when the nobles and their levies are called for duty. They believe that the only just war is a defensive war and believe that Heironeans should stress more civilized arts and values in order not to just win wars but keep the peace. They stress the themes of chivalry, justice, and honor.

Note that both factions honor each other, but their disagreements are vigorous and heartfelt. Both sides honor the values upheld by the others, but there is a clear difference of emphasis and priority. The argument over axes or swords as the favored weapon of Heironeous and thus his followers is merely emblematic of the deeper conflicts of policy and class interest. These conflicts are often played out amongst the council of Niole Dra and the advisers of King Skotti. For instance, the Sword-wielders believe it was a mistake to invade Westkeep when diplomatic and economic pressures had yet to be exhausted whereas the Axe-wielders are more in favor of going on the offensive against the Scarlet Brotherhood wherever they may be found.