Goblins

'I've heard the goblin language has fifteen words for 'stab', and none for 'friend'. Now that's not quite true - the word for friend is 'dhec'. Their society is built around cunning, where the smartest, and sneakiest, get to the top, however they can. That's why they often make such good assassins and thieves. But they are good people, as smart as you and I, and perfectly affable when you're close to them. They do have fifteen words for 'stab', though.' - Dhovob, adventurer

In many ways, goblins are closely related to the orcs - the two races consider each other kin, and may fight alongside each other when push comes to shove. Much like the orcs, goblins live in tribes of highly variable cultures, ruled by the strongest. However, the definition of strongest is where these tribes vary - for an orcish tribe, an individual slitting the throat of the chief without a challenge would be unacceptable. For goblins, that is more or less the standard method of succession. Sneakiness, cunning, and ruthlessness are the prized characteristics in goblin society, and those who can be bullied will be bullied by those above them, to demonstrate strength and cruelty. Despite this, goblins possess a surprising degree of intelligence, making competent mages and scholars, if they last through the cutthroat life of their tribes.

Basic Information

Ecology and Habitats

Goblins are highly adaptable, though greatly preferring damp climes, and often living underground.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Goblins are scavengers, more or less eating anything they can get their hands on, able to tolerate even foods that would turn the stomach of the hardiest human.

Biological Cycle

Goblins mature quickly, reaching adulthood at the age of 8, and breed quickly.

Additional Information

Facial characteristics

Goblins have notably large noses, typically hooked if not malformed from being broken, and large, almost bat-like ears. They also have notably sharp teeth.

Civilization and Culture

Naming Traditions

Goblins are typically given names in Goblin shortly after birth, though these may be replaced by (usually derogatory) nicknames later in life.

Major Language Groups and Dialects

Goblins largely speak Goblin, a distinctive language with a number of similarities to Orcish, as well as Orcish.

Culture and Cultural Heritage

Goblin culture is built around murdering your way up the social ladder, and bullying anyone below so that they don't murder you. Outside of the cutthroat tribes, goblins tend to be devious and greedy.

Interspecies Relations and Assumptions

Goblins are close to the orcs and the other goblinoid races, but have little good faith with the other races.

Lifespan

60 years naturally, but most die before 30

Average Height

Around 4ft

Average Weight

Usually heavier than other races of a similar size, due to being somewhat burly, though they may equally be emaciated depending on social standing

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

Goblins typically have skin that is a shade of green or yellow, with a wide variety of skin tones reported