Goblin
A Bag Full Of Tricks
"A clever goblin survives. A lucky goblin survives twice."
Goblins are resourceful, adaptable humanoids who have survived for centuries by relying on wit, speed, and cooperation rather than physical strength. Though often dismissed by larger races as little more than nuisances or raiders, goblins possess a remarkable talent for making the most of whatever circumstances they inherit. Few peoples recover from hardship with greater determination.
Small, wiry, and quick, goblins are easily recognized by their pointed ears, broad noses, sharp teeth, and expressive eyes that constantly scan their surroundings. Their skin ranges from muted greens and browns to gray or ochre, allowing them to blend naturally into forests, caves, hills, and ruined settlements. Their movements are energetic and efficient, seldom wasting effort or opportunity.
Goblin communities are shaped by necessity. Villages often arise wherever resources can be found, whether hidden among dense forests, abandoned fortresses, winding cave systems, or forgotten ruins. Homes are practical rather than grand, built from reclaimed timber, salvaged stone, and anything else that can be repaired instead of discarded. To a goblin, throwing away something useful is difficult to understand.
Ingenuity is admired above nearly every other quality. A goblin capable of repairing broken tools, inventing clever traps, negotiating favorable bargains, or finding food where none seemed available earns respect regardless of birth or family. Success belongs to those who solve problems before they become disasters.
Life among goblins encourages cooperation. Families often extend well beyond blood relations, with entire villages sharing responsibility for raising children, gathering supplies, and defending their homes. Arguments are common, loud, and usually forgotten by the next morning. Holding unnecessary grudges is considered a waste of valuable energy.
Relations with other races are often strained by generations of misunderstanding and conflict. Many goblins grow accustomed to suspicion wherever they travel, forcing them to prove their intentions repeatedly. Some answer prejudice with resentment, while others embrace trade, craftsmanship, or exploration in hopes of changing long-held perceptions.
Goblin merchants are famous for carrying unexpected goods. A traveler visiting the same goblin trader twice may discover an entirely different assortment of wares, each accompanied by an enthusiastic story explaining exactly how it came into the merchant's possession. Whether every story is true is a question even other goblins rarely bother asking.
"People mistake desperation for foolishness. Spend a week living beside goblins and you'll discover they're among the finest problem-solvers in the world."
Genetic Ancestor(s)
Scientific Name
Homo goblinis
Lifespan
50–70 years
Average Height
3 ft. 2 in – 4 ft. 2 in
Average Weight
35–60 lbs
Geographic Distribution
Related Organizations
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