Introduction to the Burrows

[DM B]

Exactly when the region known as the Burrows became settled by Halflings remain a bit of a mystery. Perhaps in the fifth or sixth century HC, although it was only considerably later that human scholars became aware of the realm’s existence. The reason is simple – Sendoure was never focused eastward and the realm of Rheulgard was hardly a civilized entity at the time. If anyone knows it is the sidhe, but they keep their own counsel. When the halflings did arrive it is likely they came directly from the Shadow World (assuming you believe the tales of their true origin). There has been a little emigration from the Burrows and somewhat more in terms of halfling immigrants, but in no way is the Burrows considered the halfling ‘homeland’ by those that do not live there. A halfling living in a rural village in Avanil will consider himself part of his family, then the village, and then the fiefdom. If he’s an open-minded fellow he might add Avanese and Anuirean. But he’s not in any way concerned with the distant Burrows.

The Burrows are located in a relatively peaceful and unimportant corner of Cerilia. It also seems to possess little in the way of resources, save plenty of water and sun and earth. Making the Burrows perfectly suited for the halfling mindset, but not overly interesting for any would-be conqueror. The halflings are also pretty insular and do not encourage diplomatic relations or long-range trade, which helps in terms of the age-old principle of out of sight, out of mind. The Burrows also maintain a small, but highly trained and very dedicated army. Most adults can also join the militia if need be. The Burrows is heavily fortified, a combination of simple but sturdy stone watchtowers and the extensive underground burrows favored by the halflings of the Burrows. The main military deterrent comes from another quarter entirely – the elves of Coullabhie will defend the Burrows if need be, using magic and weapons both.

[DM B]

In recent years there has been a tendency for more interaction with the outside world. This is ever a point of contention within the halfling ruling circles – the traditionalists fear unwanted attention, the militants point out that the sidhe are less and less able and willing to fend for the Burrows, and the commercialists merely show of the great wealth that trade brings.

[DM B]

Edvara Garrelban, Standish of Ambles, Quintess of Fellrock: Female Halfling; Fighter 3/Ranger 3; Anduiras, major, 32; LG. Edvara is a demure and dedicated halfing. She is the second-longest serving Standish in history. Unless she abdicates or dies she is likely to continue to enjoy the support of the Quintain (the Council of the Burrows). The Garrelban family is an old and honorable one, having held court in the mountains of Fellrock since halflings first came to this land (or maybe before that even).

Anders Hillsfair: Male Halfling; Noble 2; Basaïa, minor, 17; CN. Anders is a jovial halfling, much given to throwing lavish feasts and wasting away his days. Very much the stereotypical halfling. The Hillsfair clan is one of the largest and most extensively branched scion families in Cerilia. There are members living all over the Burrows and intermarriage with other clans is common. The line has, however, never been very strong, and usually the divine blood dissipates after a generation or two.

Childe: The Childe clan of Coarsewell is more insular than most. They have held the position of Quint since the 13th century. In a very surprising move the elders of the clan helped create ‘Burnlaffen, Childe, and Tallow’.

Tallow: The Tallows of Greenlock produce many halflings of wanderlust and martial skill. Over the years some have returned with small personal fortunes, which enabled the clan to do two things – help back ‘Burnlaffen, Childe, and Tallow’ and buy the Qunitage of Greenlock.

Corben 'Flint' Haupstahl, Quint of Westwold: Male Halfling; Rogue 6/Fighter 1/Noble 1; Vorynn, minor, 22; LN. The industrious Quint Corben (called ‘Flint’ because of his stern demeanor – or his flint-grey eyes) would like for the Standish and the Quintain to take a more active role in the defense of the Burrows. He is reading the signs and doesn’t like what he sees in the outside world.

Elan Fairbairn: Male Halfling; Cleric 5; Brenna, minor, 26; CG. The aging High Priest of the Land’s Protector (what passes for organized religion in the Burrows) is very highly respected and his counsel universally heeded. His primary motivation is keeping the Burrows safe and prosperous.

Jollid Innkeeper: Male Halfling; Rogue 9; Masela, major, 38; LN. The line of Innkeepers has overseen the guilds and trade of the Burrows for many generations. Jollid is very experienced in the ways of trade, but completely bereft of initiative and imagination.

Hollisande Burnlaffen: Female Halfling; Rogue 5; Basaïa, minor, 17; LN. The ‘Burnlaffen, Childe, and Tallow’ is a recent creation on the guild scene, having been put together by the enterprising former adventuress Hollisande with the backing of the Childe and Tallow clans. The plan is to gain a strong core area in the Burrows and then expand elsewhere, most likely into nearby Rheulgard and Sendoure.