Halfling

### Halflings

**Halflings** – also known as the "quick folk" or "good folk" – are humanoid creatures similar in shape to humans – whom halflings called the "Big Folk, but around half their size. Halflings get along well with most of the other races and are known for their curiosity and tendency to collect things.

The term "halfling" was derived from the fact that a halfling was around half of the size of a human, but otherwise very similar in appearance. Some view them with similar suspicion to humans, despite not sharing the same fate during The Severance. Halflings are small in comparison with the members of most other races, standing somewhere from 2′8″‒3′4″ tall and weighing on average between 30‒35 lb. Most halflings have dark hair and eyes, regardless of their skin complexion which, although commonly ruddy in hue had a similar range to humans.

> "Who knows where a hero's spirit will grow? Even the smallest seed can produce the mightiest tree." - Domigo Thundergong
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Halflings are by nature joyful and friendly in their dealings with others. Because they live in a world where they were surrounded by larger creatures, halflings tended to avoid notice, often deliberately, or at the very least, act cordial towards the larger races. Halflings appear deceptively harmless, meaning they are often beyond the notice of enemies that might otherwise pose a threat to them. Their communities are tightly knit groups found in all cities around the world. Most halflings don't recognize the claims of kings, lords or nobles as sovereign rulers but instead look primarily to their family elders to guide them through navigating the difficulties of city life. This focus on bloodlines enabled halfling traditions to continue for millennia relatively intact. Halflings also value a sense of community; halflings naming each other "halfling" was a salute of brotherhood. Halflings, in general, try their best to get along with everybody, though exceptions do exist and some halfling families are notoriously xenophobic.

The halfling mind is practical and halflings concern themselves with their immediate surroundings. They take pleasure in simple things, with few aspiring to greatness.

### Cuisine

It is said that "Cheese, bread, ale and more cheese are what fill a happy halfling's stomach" and that can be evidenced by their own agricultural choices. Halflings love food and drink, some of the greatest food in Vari is made exclusively by halflings, using secret family recipes.

* **Appletide:** Sweet yet slightly bitter apple cider. Often served in massive jugs, filled with crushed ice, sliced apples and lemons.
* **Brielle's Best:** A black-as-ink, very sweet stout. Brewed by the Brielleborn halfling family.
* **Dark Magic:** A chocolate cake treat made with cherries and blackberries. Widely available, varies upon location.
* **Fickle Cheese:** A cheese/drug that only has an effect on halflings. Addictive and induces hyperactivity.
* **Mintbuck:** A translucent green, spearmint beer. Refreshing and cool.
* **Orthin:** This buttery yellow cheese made from goat's and sheep's milk. It has a moreish after taste.
* **Smokey John's**: A notoriously strong whiskey drink favoured by halflings and other people of Vari.
* **White Dragon:** A white grape grown for wines. They grow in halfling-sized clusters. Grown in exclusively moderate climates such as
* **Winter Stew:** A stew made of lamb, chillies and root vegetables that has a warming effect to take away the bite of colder climates.