The Halflings

Halflings more than any other race see themselves as members of a society rather than as individuals. Halflings are a very rural folk, and the mainstay of their culture is agriculture and livestock. The majority of their dwellings resemble nothing more than downsized human cottages, but those living in close proximity to a hill live in a very unique dwelling called a Burrow. A Burrow is essentially a home cut into the hillside, and can range in size from a single room to a veritable mansion. One thing they all have in common is south facing doors and windows. This keeps the burrow warmer by facing away from the cold north wind. There are very few purely Halfling dwellings, with many Halfling villages built close to, or inside Human cities.

Halflings are very lenient in their attitude towards minor crimes providing the act doesn't cause hardship or harm. Real or violent crime is rare in their communities. Punishments set down by Halfling laws range from reduced food to exile for serious or constantly repetitive crimes (even Halfling patience can run out eventually). All cases are judged by the elder and enforced by the militia. No criminal is ever judged on merit of birth or wealth. Execution is unheard of. In those cases that warrant such dire action the offender is handed over to Human magistrates. Perhaps this leniency in regard to petty crime is why many Halflings have gained a reputation as being vagabonds and for thievery.

There are very few Halfling warriors, and those that follow this path tend to prefer ranged conflict favouring short bows and slings, though also armed with short swords, daggers and cut down spears. Many races view Halflings as cowardly but this is blatantly untrue. It is usual that a foe underestimates these determined little folk and doesn't live to regret it.