Haflin

**Concerning Haflin…**

Haflin are found in the foothills to the East of the Great Fairy Deepwood, the descendants of interbreeding between Dwarves and Humans. Generally considered to be friendly to outsiders and visitors, Haflin value merriment and drink , neither of which are ever in short supply.

**~Anatomy~**

Haflin are a diminutive people, with their males reaching 3.5 to 4 feet on average, and females reaching between 3 to 3’7”. They are of a stocky build, usually somewhat muscular, a trait inherited from their Dwarven ancestors. Males are commonly barrel-chested, and a bit on the chubby side, while females can appear much the same, or appear more dainty. Both typically possess large hands and feet. They have short, almost elven ears which droop nearly to the horizontal, varying from pointed to round depending on the time of year of their birth; round in the spring and summer, pointier during the fall and winter months. They are typically of fair complexion, and often have freckles, which increase in frequency as the year grows shorter. Hair colors are commonly blonde, ginger, or brunette, with colored streaks being observed in their warriors. These are typically worn long, with braids or curls. Short hair is viewed as horrific, and often shunned outright. Eye colors are most often green or hazel, though most natural eye colors have been seen. Haflin are a particularly fertile race, due in no small part to the leylines which intersect their lands, with large families of up to 10 children being seen. Though, on average, 4 is the most common number.

**~Culture~**

Haflin language is typically a combination between Human Common, and what is presumed to be some ancient offshoot of Dwarven. They speak in a distinct (Welsh) accent, and are no strangers to speaking their minds, preferring to speak a hard truth and apologize, rather than to lie. They are very fond of drink and food, consuming great quantities whenever an excuse for merriment can be made. (There is always an excuse.) They have a great love for song and music as well, often playing and singing long into the night. Outsiders are treated with welcome and offers of feast, so long as they come with no ill-intent. Haflin are commonly farmers or craftsman, creating well-made but simple tools and trinkets which last for many years. They will not craft with precious metals such as Gold, Silver, or Mythril, which they consider cursed; a result of long standing legends about their ancient forebears, the Dwarves. They prefer natural materials such as stone, wood, and leather, but will occasionally use Copper, Iron, or Bronze. Haflin are also skilled herbalists and healers, and while not inclined to most forms of magic, there are some who have become excellent white mages. Bards are a common and treasured addition to any village, and competition is fierce to become the best.

While the Haflin are not over fond of combat, they do have a fair number of warriors. Most often found with hammer or spear and shield, these stocky defenders have long guarded the borders of their lands against beast and man alike. Their armor is typically light, and comprised primarily of leather with small plates of iron in critical areas. They possess little siege weaponry, but some cavalry, which prefer small and strong Shire Ponies to carry them. Haflin prefer swift strikes and retreats to open field combat, using their knowledge of the land to conceal their movements.

**~Religion~**

Haflin are a spiritual people, unlike their Dwarven ancestors, giving thanks to a trinity of abstract deities they refer to as the Lord of the Forge, Lady of the Rains, and Baron of the Underhill. The Lord of the Forge brings them the gifts of fire, and the creativity to craft, The Lady of the Rain blesses them with fertility, rain, and a bountiful harvest; be it of grain or livestock. The Baron of the Underhill grants them strong foundations on which to root themselves, both physically and spiritually; bringing them strong stones and metals to craft the tools they need, and the determination to persevere. Unknown to the Haflin, they are really paying homage to Fion, Kui, and Ul’El’Baron.

There is a grand festival held once a year, which welcomes home travelers and warriors of their race from long travels from home. It is also a celebration of the harvest, giving thanks to the Lord, the Lady, and the Baron for their many gifts. The feasts of this time are extravagant, even for a Haflin, and the drink flows as rivers. Bards and craftsman compete against one another, presenting their finest songs and crafts to the village elders to be judged. Glory follows the victors throughout the year, and it is believed that the winner's households are blessed. Gifts to the three deities are left at the base of a mighty tree as thanks for all they provide, and dancing to honor them, and the travelers carry long into the night.

**~Locations and Relations~**

The Haflin are spread across a relatively small geographical area to the Southeast of the Fairy Deepwood, ranging across the Rolling Foothills, from the Norg Peaks to Lake Vala in the Southwest. The Haflin refer to their lands as Haflin Hollow or The Hollow for short. Their largest city is Hafhold, located at the base of the Norg Peaks. It’s unique architecture, comprised of homes dug into the sides of the hills, draws many travelers and tourists. The Haflin here are more than happy to show off their homes, as the work needed to construct them is a great point of pride. They have mostly friendly relations and trade with the Imperial forces along their borders, who view them as little more than a nuisance. Relations with the elves are somewhat frosty, but not hostile. The Elves seem to have no interest in them for the most part. Haflin rarely venture into the desert regions to the South and West, as their fair complexions do not provide much defense against the sun’s harsh rays.Due to this, they have not had much prolonged contact with the Beastkin, outside of venturing trade caravans; though if stories are to be believed, the meetings are often jovial, and result in a party being held.