Halfling

"When Temilian brandished his sword against the necromancer, Senex Malus, he was defending Matunas. Sadly, the deed was already done, and a god had fallen. In great anger at the loss of his ancient companion, Temilian ascended to heights he had never dared reach before. The only recount we have states that when they emerged carrying the body of Matunas, with Malus bound for the Ley Prisons, Temilian was nowhere to be seen. His power had become too immense for mortal eyes to behold. If you ever doubt yourself because you are small or do not think you are seen, always remember that it does not take being the biggest to be the best."

~ Brandi Unwater
Chosen of Temilian
Class notes, 3 UE

Description

Halflings, Dromaria's smallest and bravest people, are loved for their affable nature and indomitable spirit. They possess an innate wanderlust, viewing the whole world as their homeland, and hence, are encountered everywhere. Yet, their nomadic tendencies make it rare to find a halfling staying in the same place for too long. Their journeys have earned them a reputation as exceptional navigators and guides. Displaying resolute loyalty, coupled with perpetual strokes of good luck, makes halflings sought-after companions, sometimes regarded as symbols of fortune. Though halflings typically reach a maximum height of 3 feet and weigh up to 45 pounds, they exhibit a remarkable diversity in their physical characteristics. They have a lifespan that extends to nearly 150 years, defying their diminutive stature with impressive longevity. Despite being small in size, halflings are nimble and quick on their feet, allowing them to easily navigate a world dominated by larger folks.

Temilianism
The faith of Temilianism is followed by those who see the long and winding road not as an obstacle, but as an invitation. For these wanderers, vagabonds, and ever-curious souls, their ultimate ambition is to walk alongside Temilian on their never-ending quest. Proponents of Temilianism believe that the halfling is the original god. Their faith hinges on the understanding that without Temilian, there would be no guide to the new world. As the Path of the Ancestors recounts, it was Temilian who sparked the voyage that led to everything that Dromaria has become. True believers wear the symbol of a winged compass known as the Navigator's Source. Those who do will claim to have met Temilian, always describing him as a small hooded traveler; a figure that has come to mean that anyone could be within Temilian's cloak.

Societies

Halfling societies are few and far between, most preferring to lead lives of personal exploration, starting their journeys at a young age. Afflicted by an insatiable need to wander, halflings view the pursuit of travel as their Calling. As they reach old age, it's not uncommon for halflings to slow down, choosing instead to settle in a chosen community where they can meaningfully contribute. These elders assume roles such as innkeepers or shop owners. Some halfling groups have embraced living on their own, gathering in large nomadic communities. The most notable being "The Pride," which roams the continent of Erimata. A common trait of such groups is communal fellowship, where no one owns anything, therefore it belongs to everyone. Curiously, when halflings gather in such large numbers, they are sometimes stereotyped for their overfamiliarity rather than bringers of good fortune. A popular saying in Yen Su Ma is, "They'll mend your pot, and leave the hole in your pocket."

The Pride setting up camp near The Hush.

History

Legend has it that halflings originated on the first world, Ithidus, where they walked beside and worshiped their god, Temilian. The Path of the Ancestors tells of Temilian leading not just those from Ithidus, but all of the Ancestors across the stars in search of a new home. Throughout the journey to Dromaria and in the initial settling of the new world, halflings were celebrated as loyal companions. They fought alongside the other races for their share, dependable allies on all fronts. When the Covenant was signed, the halflings began their travels across the globe, finding freedom once again. Halflings contributed to all things, from the construction of cities to societal infrastructures on nearly every continent. They defended what they built before moving on to the next place once their task was accomplished, a lifestyle that reflects upon the teachings of Temilian, and continues to this day. There is countless folklore of halfling heroism through the ages. One of the oldest such stories tells of Ridox Wiggletoe, who ended the longest game of Dukkerin in history. In more recent times, "D" Devrem Wolfborne, famed for his defeat of the demon lord Lucca Krazier, has emerged as one of the most famous living figures on Dromaria, marking an end to the worldwide conflict known as the Demon War.

Halfling Backgrounds

Here is a Dromaria specific background associated with halflings:

Best Friend

While this represents some halflings, folks from anywhere could find themselves with a similar backstory.

Saying Goodbye

Halflings, known for their community spirit and love of good food, hold a tradition when they are about to depart from a place they've spent meaningful time. The "Appreciation Feast" is a celebration entirely organized by the departing halfling as a way of thanking the community. It's a night of merriment, filled with food, stories, and laughter, a goodbye without the sorrow.

"Do you remember having a friend so close that you had your own pair of slippers at their house? I grew up with a halfling gal named Jenny Rivers. She was one of a kind. I wonder where she's sailing off to now."

~ Burton Talos
Conversation, The Hanging Trout

Halfling Traits

Halflings of Dromaria have the same in-game statistics as found in the 5ed Player's Handbook. The traditional halfling terms such as "Lightfoot Halfling" are not typically used on Dromaria, although some may fit similar themes.

Cultural Tidbits

Halflings who use people's preconceived notions against them for selfish gains are sometimes cursed as "shinnies" by those who have been wronged.

Retired halflings who have settled upon finding their Calling, become wayposts for those still seeking. Such elders are called Talestriders, who have become storytellers, possessing vast knowledge of their community's history, culture, and traditions.

Despite their nomadic lifestyle, halflings have developed a crafting tradition for furniture. Known for their intricate and durable designs, halfling crafts always feature motifs inspired by their travels.

Dromaria: The Covenant

Atlas

Maps

Gazetteer

Halfling

Description

Temilianism

Societies

History