OVERVIEW
Halflings, known for their small stature and carefree demeanor, are often underestimated and patronized by other race—seen as nothing more than simple, rural folk who value community, music, and a peaceful way of life.
Despite this, they possess a resourcefulness and dexterity that allows them to thrive through a vast variety of hardships and environments.
PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS
Appearance
Halflings are small, standing about 3 feet tall, often with willowy, lean bodies.
It is difficult for halflings to put on fat, muscle or height, making those features desirable in their standards of beauty.
They often have round faces, large eyes, and curly hair, giving them a youthful and somewhat childlike appearance. It can be difficult for a non-halfling to tell the age of a halfling.
Their skin tones range from fair to tan, and they often have a cheerful and approachable demeanor.
Lifespan
Halflings typically live up to around 50 years, although some can live slightly longer with healthy lifestyles. Their relatively short lifespans contribute to their vibrant and carefree approach to life, as they strive to make the most of their time with friends and family.
GENERAL PERSONALITIES
These personality traits reflect the common behaviors and attitudes shaped by societal upbringing in the major cities of each race.
Remember, people are often products of their environment, and your character’s background and upbringing should greatly influence their personality.
These are not cookie-cutter formulas, and no character needs to embody these traits fully—feel free to explore and create unique personalities!
Cheerful and Optimistic
Halflings are known for their cheerful and optimistic outlook on life. Many halfling societies value simple pleasures and often hold festivals that involve singing, dancing, and celebrating with their communities.
Resourceful and Agile
Despite their reputation for being carefree, halflings are incredibly resourceful. They are quick thinkers and adept at finding solutions to problems, often using their small size and nimble fingers to their advantage.
Loyal and Community-Oriented
Halflings place a high value on community and loyalty. They are fiercely protective of their families and friends, and their tight-knit communities reflect their cooperative spirit.
WAYS OF LIFE
Agriculture and Craftsmanship
Many halfling communities are agrarian, focusing on farming, gardening, and small-scale craftsmanship. They are often skilled farmers and artisans, producing high-quality goods that are valued by other races.
Festivals and Celebrations
Halflings love to celebrate and have numerous festivals throughout the year. These events are filled with music, dancing, feasting, and storytelling, reflecting their love for life and community.
Adventuring and Exploration
While often seen as homebodies, some halflings have a strong sense of curiosity and adventure. They join adventuring parties, where their nimbleness and keen senses make them valuable assets.
Unfortunately, their small size can lead to them being taken advantage of and forced into dangerous situations.
SOCIETAL STRUCTURE
Elders and Councils
Halfling communities are often led by elders and councils, who make decisions through consensus. Leadership is based on wisdom and experience rather than strict hierarchy.
RELIGION & BELIEFS
Under construction!
WORLDLY REPUTATION
The Good
💚 Halflings are beloved for their cheerfulness, resourcefulness, and community spirit. Their skills in farming and craftsmanship are respected, and their festivals and celebrations are enjoyed by those who visit their communities.
The Bad
â›” Halflings are often underestimated and patronized due to their small stature and youthful appearance. Other races sometimes view them as simple and naive, leading to them being patronized, infantilized, brushed off, or taken advantage of in various situations.
More detailed information can be found in Halfling Interactions With Other Races
Other Names
Friendly-Neutral Names
Swiftfeet, Hearthlings, Smallfolk, Sprites, Sunshine, Quicklings
Derogatory Names
Shorties, Knee-Highs, Pocketables, Pipsqueaks, Runts, Shrimps, Titch
PRESENCE IN FORTUNE'S REST
THE PADDIES
Halflings are most commonly found in The Paddies, where their skills in fishing, farming, and craftsmanship are well-suited to the floating fishing village environment.
THE CANOPY
Halflings also have a presence in The Canopy, where their goods and foodstuffs are popular among market-goers. Their cheerful and optimistic nature makes them well-liked by their neighbors, though they must often assert themselves to be taken seriously.
THE RIM
Due to their deftness, nimbleness, and keen senses, halflings are frequently recruited for trap-finding and navigating small spaces during dives into Sunhallow along The Rim.
Unfortunately, their small size and physical weakness are sometimes taken advantage of by less scrupulous adventurers.
