Geographic Base: The Philippines

Appearance: Dwende average 3" in height, or about the size of a finger, and look like dried up little old men (there are no female Dwende). They generally sit hunched up and barefoot, and have knobby joints and white beards. Their eyesight is poor due to a large part of their lives being spent either underground or aboveground after sunset, but they have very good hearing and speak quite clearly in a whistling voice. Dwende wear little save a blue or purple loincloth and a basket hat. These baskets they either weave from grass or make with fruit peelings.

Lifestyle: Dwende live in small groups in caves beneath the ground. They like to live near friendly humans and often make their homes in fruit trees or back gardens. Above ground, their homes look much like termite mounds, but are generally of stone construction inside. The Dwende spend much of their time caring for their houses, which they are quite proud of, and sitting deep in thought. They are also skilled potters and have a habit of singing as they work. Their amusements involve many games employing pebble balls, as well as climbing trees at night to stare at the stars. Dwende are very thoughtful creatures and most of their magic goes on below ground, in explorations of the pits of the earth. However, they will also make use of minor curses if their homes are threatened, though they need not do too much damage as they can always retreat deeper under the ground.

Human Interaction: The Dwende enjoy living with human company nearby - as long as the humans are respectful of their homes. They particularly single out children, whom they play small tricks on or games with, and pretty girls, whom the Dwende enjoy flattering and whistling at. While the size difference and the Dwende's nocturnal rather solitary habits prevent a terribly close bond from growing between them and humans, they do make good neighbors. If humans are on favorable terms with the nearby Dwende, they can often borrow some of the Dwende's beautiful china dishes, which bless any meal.