Why Goblins Fight

Goblins are tricky creatures. In battle, they seem jittery, ready to flee and route the moment blood is shed. They live in caves filled with the stolen goods of settlements near, testament to their greedy nature. They are the embodiment of selfish desire and meaningless existence.

But this isn't true. It's what they want you to think.

You believe them to be cowards, running at the hint of blood. This isn't true. No goblin has ever routed in combat out of fear. It is simply an act of strategical advantage. They run, and you, oh honorable fighting man, chase them. You end up either in a well-thought trap planned hours in advance, or wandering the woods lost as they raid your village.

When there is no strategic advantage, you ask? They fight. Any general would have them for their ranks, if they could figure out the truth. Goblins are not men. They need no lofty ideals of bravery or purpose to fight. They need not harsh discipline nor the spoils of war to remain together. Goblins fight when they must, fiercer than any man, backed only by the need to win.

Sure, they do live in caves filled with stolen loot. Where else could they live? Death awaits them at every turn, whether they become the playthings of dragons or the scorn of civilization. Man has left the caves, yet has broken the bridge for others to follow.

Of course they steal. How else should they feed their young? You have taken all the land under the sun. They must steal your cattle, your barley and your wheat. Perhaps they'll take a few treasures as well. The cave is dark and gold, shiny.

The greatest lie told of the goblin is of their selfish desire. Goblins are not selfish. They do not lack meaning. Every moment of a goblin's life is dedicated to his community. It is why he fights fiercely, unamused of petty honor. It is why he leaves the cave to brave the sun and the tips of spears and the gaze of dragons.

Goblins fight only for their survival, but it is never an 'I', but always a 'We'.