Firstshire

Firstshire is the last known nation of free halflings on Dessend. With the rest of their people wiped out (the Uideno), enslaved (the Saamni), or gone feral (the Ruuhaq), these halflings have isolated themselves from the world. Some dream of eventually freeing and taming their lost brethren, but the fear of the outside world keeps them content to remain in their own lands and let the rest of the world right itself.
Firstshire Historical Background Original Homeland: Origins: Firstshire is the ancestral homeland of the halflings, a region they have inhabited for centuries. Unlike the expansionist ambitions seen in Saamni, Firstshire has always been more focused on maintaining its traditions and way of life. Isolationist Policies: After witnessing the devastating fall of Saamni to Korma, Firstshire adopted strict isolationist policies to preserve its sovereignty and culture. This policy was inspired by historical examples such as Japan's sakoku, which effectively sealed the nation from external influences for over two centuries. Geography Location: East Coast of the Greatlands: Firstshire is located on the eastern coast of the Greatlands, offering access to the ocean but limiting overland approaches. Natural Barriers: Mountains: The southern and western borders are protected by mountain ranges, creating natural fortifications against invasions. Deadman's Bog: To the north lies Deadman's Bog, a treacherous marshland with labyrinthine sandbars and dangerous mud pits. This bog effectively isolates Firstshire from northern threats. Wildkin Territories: East of Deadman's Bog lies the forested territories of the Wildkin, adding another layer of protection against incursions from other regions. Social and Political Structure Government:
Council of Elders: Firstshire is governed by a Council of Elders, a group of wise and experienced halflings who make decisions based on consensus. This council ensures that the traditions and values of the halflings are upheld. Local Governance: Each village or town within Firstshire has its own local council, which handles day-to-day governance. These councils report to the central Council of Elders. Legal System:
Justice and Fairness: Firstshire’s legal system is based on fairness and community well-being. Judges are elected by the people, and trials follow an "innocent until proven guilty" framework. Restorative justice is emphasized, focusing on repairing harm and restoring community harmony. Economy and Trade Self-Sufficiency:
Agriculture: Firstshire's economy is primarily agrarian, with halflings cultivating the fertile grasslands and sparse forests for crops and livestock. This self-sufficiency ensures that they do not need to rely on external trade. Craftsmanship: The halflings of Firstshire are skilled craftsmen, known for their pottery, weaving, and woodworking. These crafts are highly valued within the community and sometimes traded with trusted partners. Limited Trade:
Selective Trading: While Firstshire's isolationist policies limit external trade, they do engage in selective trading with trusted partners. This includes exchanging surplus agricultural products and crafted goods for essential items not available locally. Cultural Aspects Traditions and Festivals:
Cultural Preservation: The halflings of Firstshire place a high value on their traditions, with festivals and celebrations playing a crucial role in community life. Seasonal festivals, harvest celebrations, and traditional music and dance are integral to their culture. Oral History: Stories and histories are passed down orally, preserving the rich heritage of the halfling people. Elders and storytellers are respected figures within the community. Education and Learning:
Community Learning: Education in Firstshire is community-based, with elders and skilled individuals teaching the younger generations. This system ensures that knowledge and skills are passed down effectively. Libraries and Archives: Despite their isolationist stance, Firstshire maintains libraries and archives to preserve written knowledge and historical records. Relations with the Wildkin Unintentional Protection:
Geographical Barrier: The presence of the Wildkin in the forests east of Deadman's Bog serves as an unintended protective barrier for Firstshire. The Wildkin's fierce reputation and territorial nature deter potential invaders from attempting to reach Firstshire overland. Mutual Respect: Although there is no formal alliance between Firstshire and the Wildkin, there is a mutual respect. The Wildkin, recognizing the halflings' desire for peace and autonomy, generally avoid conflicts with them. Navigating Deadman's Bog:
Dangers of the Bog: Deadman's Bog is a notorious marshland with shifting sandbars and treacherous mud. Navigating through this bog requires expert knowledge of safe paths, making it a formidable obstacle for any would-be invaders. Guides and Scouts: Some halflings, skilled in navigating the bog, serve as guides and scouts. Their knowledge of the terrain is invaluable for maintaining safe travel routes and monitoring potential threats. Conclusion Firstshire stands as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the halfling people. By adopting isolationist policies and leveraging the natural barriers surrounding their homeland, the halflings have preserved their unique culture and way of life. The unintentional protection provided by the Wildkin, coupled with the formidable Deadman's Bog, ensures that Firstshire remains a bastion of halfling heritage in a changing world.

History

The East Shore Shire is the original homeland of halflings on Dessend. Despite initially living within its natural boundaries, they eventually expanded beyond it. However, a string of catastrophic events have left the Last Shire as the sole sanctuary for halflings. In the current era, all other halflings have either perished or been enslaved. The only exception is the Ruuhaq, which has devolved into a feral state where even goblins are considered more civilized.

Foreign Relations

The Last Shire is a secluded valley located in a mountain range on the eastern shore of the central continent. Following the enslavement of their neighboring halfling nation, Saamni, the Last Shire has limited their contact with the outside world and relies on the mountains and swamps to protect them. They are cautious of the nearby dwarf nation of Korma to the south, who were responsible for the enslavement of the Saamni halflings.

Safe at Home

Type

Geopolitical, Country

Alternative Names

East Shore Shire

Demonym

Shirelings

Government System

Democracy, Direct

Power Structure

Autonomous area

Economic System

Traditional