Wild Elves and Other Pointed Ears

         Kender, Nelwyns, Gelflings, Wolfriders, and Hobbits. All have pointed ears, are short in stature and stout in heart and though none of them are like the elves in the previous chapters, they posses enough Elfin quality and comradeship, that I felt compelled to include them in their own section.

         Perhaps the closest in nature and kinship to the true elves are the Elfquest Wolfriders of First Earth. They live in Holts of primitive Earth, fighting to survive against the harsh world of dangers that include trolls, ogres and man.  Their characteristics vary greatly depending upon the clan though all share a shorter height and large eyes. As their name suggests, they are companioned with Wolves, raising them from birth, bonding and riding them as one might a horse. They tend to be primitive and have sharp teeth like their canine bonds and are telepathic.

         The Gelflings, a race of fawn-like elfin creatures, are next closest in relation. They come from a world of three suns in an undefined time. Their faces are nearly animal in appearance and females possess wings like that of a faerie. This is a extinct race, though it is rumored two survive.

         Kender come from the world of Krynn, which reminded me most of my own Middle-Earth with its races. They did however, trade in their furry feet for sticky fingers and should be kept under a constant eye. I came home with my pouches a good deal lighter after my visit to their realm. Kender also  have a trait which enables them to be entirely fearless. While the rest of the party shies away from the edge of the bottomless gorge, the kender will skip merrily along the edge, cross the rotting foot bridge and stop to smell the roses on the other side while being charged by an enraged minotaur. Most famous of the Kender is the adventurer, Tasslehoff Burrfoot. His name even sounds Hobbit like, doesn't it?  His story is told in the Dragonlance Chronicles. The kender's weapon of choice is the hoopak, a long stick with a fork at one end, which can be used as a quarterstaff or a slingshot. Additionally, the hoopak makes a unique wailing noise when twirled; this is the universal kender sign for danger.

         Nelwyns come from the realm of Nockmaar in Willow and are almost more dwarf like than elfin. They, like Hobbits, do not like to travel as a rule, though as I wander and meet all of these little people, I come to the conclusion that its their short strides that keep them at home.

         The last are my most beloved, Hobbits. What can I say about them that has not been printed over a million times? Perhaps only that to know a hobbit is to enrich one's life and I mean that with all sincerity.  Their bravery never fails to amaze and their spirits seem to soar on wings of pure laughter. Had it not been for the hobbits, I cannot say that our world would still exist as it does.  Ammen gwennen le.

~Prince Shelley Greenleaf~
1/27/03

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