Goblins

From the wildest forests to the most sprawling metropolises, there’s no place in the world you won’t find goblins. For these small, individually weak creatures, survival is the greatest virtue.

It’s A Living. Life is unfair to goblins. It’s the one thing they can count on. Goblins are rarely granted mercy or kindness by larger folk, and in return they rarely extend it to others.

Goblins are often found in the service of more powerful creatures, particularly larger goblinoids such as hobgoblins. When faced with impossible tasks or unfair expectations, goblins grumble and complain, plot petty revenge, then roll up their sleeves and get to work. Where other creatures might turn up their noses at disgusting, cramped environments, goblins see opportunity. They will carve out space where none exists, flourishing in the cracks of civilization or in the unforgiving wilderness.

Expert Opportunists. Goblins often lurk in civilization’s liminal spaces: in abandoned mines within raiding distance of a village, or in a sprawling sewer beneath a city. Goblins can find a use for almost anything, from broken or discarded gear to abandoned tunnels to the rotting husks of long-dead trees. Goblin equipment is frequently scavenged or crafted out of unlikely materials. Goblins rarely risk combat, except when they are certain they have the upper hand. They will gladly take your discarded food, however—and, if you’re not careful, whatever else is on your table and in the bag you left unattended, as well.

Feral Glee. Goblins take their joy wherever they can find it. An unsupervised moment to play is a prize they cherish more than food or treasure. It may not last long, but goblins can make a game out of anything, and they respond well to anyone who plays along.