Lalafell

The Lalafell were originally a race of agriculturalists inhabiting the fertile islands of the south seas. With the introduction of transmarine commerce, they soon found their way to Eorzea via trade routes. They are now one of the more populous races and are well established throughout the region, though they remain averse to cold climates. The Lalafell place a great deal of significance on familial bonds, but are by no means unfriendly to outsiders. This is evidenced by the fact that they continue to share prosperous relations with all the other races of Eorzea. In The First, they are known as Dwarves.

Background

A wee people sporting short, rotund bodies, the Lalafell appear as no more than children to the eyes of most. Many of these nimble little folk hail from The Southern Seas, where they practice a simple agricultural lifestyle. It was not until the opening of small maritime trade routes that the gradual migration of Lalafells to Eorzea began.

During the Fifth Astral Era, they were crucial in the establishment of the mystic city of Mhach in the Yafaem lowlands as well as the city of Nym on Vylbrand. The Lalafell were compelled to look for new habitations when both civilizations were destroyed by the Sixth Umbral Calamity. While the remnants of Mhach traveled the earth until eventually settling in the wastes of Thanalan, the Nymian Lalafells used their sailing prowess to return to the south sea isles.

Now one of the most well-established small races in the realm, Lalafells can be found in great, unsettling numbers in nearly every city. Though Lalafellin culture places great emphasis on diminutive blood relations, individuals are known for getting along amicably with members of all races.

Identity

The Lalafell value close relationships among family members, yet they are not exclusive. This can be seen in their friendly interactions with other races and in the success they have had as a race of traders and merchants. Few people can find it in their hearts to completely despise the Lalafell due to their naturally bright and cheery demeanor, despite the fact that their exclusively business-minded character can lead to them being viewed as selfish and calculating. As a result, there are few instances of Lalafell being mistreated by other races.

Appearance

The short, rotund build of the Lalafell belie an incredible agility, and their small, seemingly feeble legs are capable of carrying them short or long distances over no small variety of terrain. Many among them are also known for possessing highly developed and cunning intellects, with small room for small-mindedness in their society.

Language and Culture

Being a race of traders, it should come as no surprise that the Lalafell were among the first to embrace and become fluent in the Hyur language. However, it is said that the archaic Lalafellin language is still spoken today in their homes in the Southern seas.

The scarf, a distinguishing feature of traditional Lalafellin attire, also has a very practical purpose: it can be spread out to operate as a signal flag on the open oceans or vast deserts, giving a Lalafell the ability to stand out despite his or her diminutive stature. They are also known to like comfortable, loose-fitting clothing as it hides their naturally round physique.

Clans

Plainsfolk

From the flat landscapes of the Plainsfolk's home islands are where this Lalafellin clan takes its name. Their distinct hair coloration - a myriad of earthy and grassy tones - helps them to blend in well with their environment, acting as an effective camouflage against would-be attackers. It was the similarity of La Noscea's grassy fields to those in their homeland which drew the first settlers to the island of Vylbrand and what is now Limsa Lominsa. They are a clever and opportunistic people, and crafty with their words. The generally accepted view of Plainsfolk is that they are vibrant lot, with a penchant for excessive conversation.

Dunesfolk

Perhaps the most unique characteristic of the Dunesfolk is their luminous eyes - a result of a glossy, protective layer which covers the pupil, an evolutionary response to their homeland's glaring sunlight. Many individuals wear a small traditional gemstone on their forehead, a symbol of their zodiacal sign. They are adamant about scholasticism, placing the advancement of knowledge before all else. Other races tend to perceive male Dunesfolk as introverts who care more for books, business, and the prosperity of Ul'dah - a city-state built upon Dunesfolk ingenuity - than the goings-on of the rest of the realm.

Initial stats

Attributes
Name	Plainsfolk	Dunesfolk
Strength	19	19
Vitality	19	18
Dexterity	23	21
Intelligence	22	22
Mind	20	23
Piety	21	23
Resistances
Name	Plainsfolk	Dunesfolk
Lightning	17	15
Fire	14	17
Earth	16	18
Ice	13	12
Water	15	12
Wind	15	16

Face type

References

• Final Fantasy XIV Official Site Final Fantasy XIV Online. Square Enix Co., Ltd., 2009. Web. 11 Dec. 2009.