Halfling

Halflings, comprising the subspecies of lightfoot halflings, stout halflings, and a few others, are a species of little folk located mainly in Talazic but, at least in small numbers, on every continent in Ekaia. They are recognizable for their diminished stature and their tough, hairy feet, which are invariably unshod. Beyond these characteristics, they are known for their affable, cheerful nature, and their ability to assimilate into any locale with ease. They tend to have a keen interest in the brewing of ale and the smoking of pipeweed.
Halflings' skin ranges from tan to pale, their curly hair is usually brown or sandy brown and wavy, and their eyes are usually brown or hazel. Halfling men don't typically grow facial hair well, though sideburns are common.

Civilization and Culture

Naming Traditions

Ancient halflings had simple names rooted in the natural world, such as Seed and Land and Shadow. These names over time were combined with each other to form surnames; the earliest known example was the first mayor of the town of Valeville, Sage Thistlethorn, after his parents Thistle and Thorn. He lived sometime in the EC 1000s, and through Valeville's prosperity in the following century, the practice became very commonplace.
Halflings are shameless in their admiration of other races, and today many of their first names are traditional human names, such as Woodrow, Hugo, Lucinda, and on and on.

Beauty Ideals

Halflings are a very traditional folk, and find beauty in simplicity and modesty.

Common Customs, Traditions and Rituals

Halflings love parties, and their calendars are full of festivals, celebrating the beginning and end of harvest season, each solstice and equinox, and the birthdays of several notable halflings throughout history, not to mention the birthdays of the people any given halfling is close to. The specific holidays that are prominently celebrated in a given region will vary, depending on that region's history.

History

Halflings trace their origins back to the Age of the Meydra and are perhaps the very oldest humanoid race behind humans.

Interspecies Relations and Assumptions

Halflings openly admire other races and try to find the good in them. They get along most easily with humans, and, when any are around, gnomes. They do, however, have a very tightly knit culture and racial identity, and while they easily make friends with non-halflings, it is extremely rare for them to seek anything more.

Lifespan

150 years

Average Height

Slightly over 3 feet