Goblins

Dark Corners of Ariath

In ages past, goblins were well known as a menace to the Folk of Ariath. To some, it seemed as though any time Folk built a thing, there were soon goblins there to tear it apart. Prolific but hidden, hordes of wicked goblins could come out of deep caves or hidden woods without warning to pillage and lay waste. Some people tried to exterminate them, but none came close.

Then, an age ago, a great master united many of the goblin tribes and nations, and made war upon the Folk of Ariath. Three times the hordes came forth, and three times they were defeated. When their master was thrown down, the Folk offered the surviving goblins mercy, and in the chaos of their defeat many accepted.

Now, many goblins in Ariath are the descendants of those who joined with the Folk in peace. There are still many wicked goblins in the world, and Folk everywhere still fear the next uprising and mistrust the goblins in their midst, but

long acquaintance has built bonds. In many places, particularly in the caves and cities of the underground, goblins are well liked and accepted members of society.

Goblins are people of the shadows. They can tolerate daylight, but do not enjoy it, and even the most civilized prefer to be indoors, underground, or in tree cover at the sun's height. In large settlements, goblin neighborhoods come alive at night, and often have businesses that serve the needs of other nocturnal folk.

Common Racial Characteristics

Goblins have skin in varying shades of green. Many have pointed ears, fangs, or sharpened teeth. While "civilized" goblins often go without, it's a common goblin tradition to paint or tattoo their faces for both decoration and camouflage. Forest goblins may have brown facial markings, subterranean ones black or charcoal, and some city goblins wear metallic colors. Depending on the goblin in question, they may choose decorations that mark them as a member of a tribe, family, or nation, or they may use them to make a statement about who they are as an individual. Often, darker colors are placed under or near the eyes to cut glare on their eyes and make daylight more tolerable.

Goblins are Fae in nature, and many are Sylvan or Subterranean. Earth, Thorns, Web, and Gloom are common racial attack traits, and Madness is common among Wicked goblins. Ferocity, Shadow, Curse, and Explosion are common racial Flavor traits.

Goblins often have claws, and many are resistant to their signature traits. They well known as voracious eaters, and may have Special Diets that allow them to eat practically anything. Those in deeper touch with their racial nature may be able to call on their Inborn Magic, be Long Lived, or even Regenerate. Many goblins have the Monstrous disadvantage.