Halfling

Like Humans, the origin of Halflings on Tevian is unknown. Due to being ostensibly hairier and shorter humans, it is believed that Halflings were either created by the same god which created humans or an offshoot of the species. Halflings are also unique in their philosophy, so to say, Halfling theology centres around the concept of the Good Life. While this belief does not exclude religious worship, Halflings are not typically very religious.

Description
Halflings are remarkably similar to humans with a handful of differences. Halflings are half the height of the typical human. They are also hairier than normal humans. This thick hair often grows on the tops of their feet, the back of their hands, and across their shoulders. Their feet are also larger than what one would expect. Halflings are renowned as being hospitable and at times displaying remarkable bravery. However, these displays of bravery are often rare as Halfling’s sedentary lifestyle means they rarely face real threats.

History
Due to their sedentary lifestyle, Halfling history is one of reactionary action. In a handful of cases, Halflings have set out from their homes as adventurers, travelling far and wide before returning home to settle down. In the course of their history, Halflings have never formed something which resembled a kingdom or independent state in function. Instead, they prefer to fall under the protection of other kingdoms so long as they are not cruel.

The Arrival
The relationship between Elves and Halflings during the Arrival is believed to have given rise to the Gnome species. Even still, Gnomes as a species did not exist before this time and to this day Gnomes may be born into Halfling households.

Gods Plague
Although the Good Life had always been a part of Halfling philosophy, it seems that during the tumultuous times following the Gods Plague this idea took a true, divine form. Aside from the manifestation of their philosophy as a deity, a handful of Halfling heroes are known to have fought during the Gods Plague alongside the other races.

Dragons Bane
With their backs pressed against the wall, many Halflings took up arms to defend themselves and others during the Dragons Bane. For the first time in history, one could count on seeing brave Halfling troops charge into battle. However, this time of strife has left little impact on Halfling society as a whole. While many Halflings cherish the contributions of their ancestors, few would hope to emulate them unless necessary.

Goblin Rising
If any Halflings participated in the Goblin Rising, their numbers were so few that they were not recorded. However, it may be likely that a Halfling adventurer or two ventured to Ireok during this time.

Society
Halflings live in community-focused societies which do not necessarily behave like a clan as membership is much less rigid and more fluid. Halfling villages possess communal stockpiles of goods and are known to raise children in a communal fashion. Halfling villages are normally led by a village elder who represents the village and makes important decisions when required. Halfling society does not encourage the accumulation of wealth, instead, it encourages satisfaction and the accumulation of happiness, but not hedonistically. Comfort and satisfaction are the core tenets of the Good Life and Halfling society as a whole. When threatened, Halfling communities display remarkable bravery and take many risks to save as many lives as possible.