Goblins
Barely sentient and volatile, goblins are a race of creatures found in nearly every environment. Though, due to their generally hostile nature, they are considered pests or threats and are quickly dealt with by adventurers, slayers, or the local guards. Unfortunately, they always seem to return no matter how thoroughly exterminated.
They are also known as gnomes, imps, and orclings (derogatory).
Their origin is unknown, but they seem to have a connection to both the fey and the Shadowfell.
What is known, however, is that goblins are very quick and eager to adapt to their environments, even more so than Humans and Elves. Goblins change with both the physical and magical pressures of their homes. This has even led to confusion about where the distinction between mutation and species should be made.
Violent and dim, but they can be reasoned with to a degree. When threatened by an overwhelming force, they will quickly surrender. This is often exploited by bandits, organized criminals, cults, and covens who will then press them into service without much issue.
The common goblin is a short, green creature that lives in the forest and hunts small game. They have a knack for stealth and will use this ability to take whatever they need from unaware travelers and unprotected settlements.
When a tribe of goblins is well-fed and allowed to grow, they will develop into hobgoblins, a larger, more intelligent variety.
Some scholars proposed that kobolds are a type of goblin as well. However, this is only speculation.
Basic Information
Anatomy
The dissection of goblins has led to further confusion, as each goblin seems to have a unique set of internal organs with varying overlapping purposes.
Genetics and Reproduction
It is currently unknown how goblins reproduce as they don't share the genital structure of other species, and do not exhibit any distinctive male or female traits.
Growth Rate & Stages
Goblins have been encountered in various stages of growth, but none that could definitively be determined to be children, younglings, or larvae. Some researchers have proposed the hobgoblin is the true "matured" form of a goblin, while others still have proposed goblins are a product of spontaneous generation.
Dietary Needs and Habits
While able to sustain themselves on scraps for indeterminate periods, goblins will often immediately consume any food they are presented with.
Behaviour
Goblins are opportunistic ambush predators and scavengers. They are generally smart enough to avoid falling prey to wild beasts but are still preyed upon.
Additional Information
Social Structure
Goblins crave the presence of other goblins and will mentally wither when isolated for extended periods, turning feral.
They will often fight amongst each other to determine ranks within the social hierarchy.
Domestication
Some people consider kobolds to be the "domesticated" form of goblins.
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