Halfling

General History

Halflings are an ancient race within Ararim, known for their peaceful existence and resilience throughout history. Though they tend to avoid major conflicts and prefer a quiet life, halflings have played significant roles as scouts, guides, and even advisors, owing to their natural curiosity and diplomacy. Their history in Ararim has been marked by migration to rural, fertile lands where they established small, tight-knit communities, valuing personal freedom and community bonds.

General knowledge

Average lifespan

Halflings typically live up to 120 years, with some reaching even older ages, particularly those who have embraced the natural world or spiritual practices. Their extended family networks mean that even the eldest members remain integral parts of their communities.

Average height

Most halflings stand between 3 and 4 feet tall, with some reaching up to 4.5 feet. Their compact build is often balanced by their agility and quick reflexes.

Average weight

Halflings generally weigh between 40 and 60 pounds. Their lightweight frame, combined with natural nimbleness, makes them both adept travelers and elusive in times of danger.

Breeding process

Halflings have a typical gestation period of about 9 months, and often form family-oriented villages, raising children within communal groups. They tend to have smaller families, with two to three children per household.

Geographic distribution

Halflings are found across the lands of Ararim, particularly in quiet, rural regions and hidden valleys. They favour temperate zones but have adapted to forested and hilly areas as well. In larger cities, halflings often reside in secluded neighbourhoods or among other halfling communities where they maintain their close family traditions.

Physical descriptions

Halflings are small and stout, with rounded faces, expressive eyes, and frequently curly hair that ranges from deep brown to auburn. Their feet are usually thickly covered in hair, and they prefer going barefoot, relying on the natural padding of their soles. Many halflings have a warm complexion, and their bright eyes and easy smiles often give them an approachable appearance.

What do they sound like

Halflings typically speak in soft, lilting tones with a cheerful cadence. Their voices often carry a musical quality, and laughter is common in their speech patterns. Halflings who live closer to bustling cities may pick up the local dialects, but they retain a distinct halfling warmth and friendliness in their speech.

Social

Motivations

Halflings are motivated by a desire for peace, comfort, and strong community bonds. They seek stable lives, often working as skilled artisans, farmers, and traders. While they avoid conflict, their curiosity often leads them to explore the world as merchants, scouts, or even adventurers, though they are generally more interested in discovery than conquest.

Likes

Halflings enjoy food, song, storytelling, and the comfort of home. They prize well-made tools, comfortable clothing, and hearty meals. Celebrations, family gatherings, and festivals are beloved among halfling communities.

Dislikes

Halflings generally dislike conflict and avoid unnecessary danger. They are uncomfortable with rigid hierarchies and distrust those who seek power for its own sake. They have a natural aversion to chaos and violence, preferring diplomacy over confrontation.

Fighting tactics

In combat, halflings rely on stealth, agility, and clever tactics rather than brute force. They prefer ranged attacks and evasion, using the terrain to their advantage. If forced into battle, they employ small weapons, quick strikes, and a keen sense of timing to outmaneuver opponents.

Abilities

Halflings possess natural agility, making them quick and nimble. They often excel in stealth, able to move quietly even in difficult terrain. Their small size and natural charisma also allow them to blend into crowds and remain unnoticed. Additionally, many halflings possess a form of "good fortune," an instinctual ability to narrowly avoid mishaps and stay out of harm's way, even in tricky situations.