Riekling

A common Riekling.

Rieklings are small, Goblin-like creatures that inhabit the island of Solstheim, usually inhabiting caves, ruins, and mountain peaks in small tribes.

Appearance

Rieklings are small, blue-skinned creatures that have sharp teeth and pointy ears. Some of the Skaal believe that the Rieklings are actually descendants of the Snow Elves that degenerated, due to their poisoning by the Dwemer into a feral state. However, their claims are mostly built off of speculation, as there is no known source of this being true.

Culture

Rieklings live in a tribal structure where certain Rieklings hold specific tasks such as hunting, being a scout, or a warrior. Strength is highly respected, as the strongest of the tribe is chosen to lead as chief. Succession of leadership is often a fight to the death. A non-Riekling may assume the title of chief if they have the support of the tribe.

Rieklings ride on Bristlebacks, which they have domesticated; many Rieklings have also been seen riding on Bristlebacks into battle. Rieklings communicate in their own language, which is spoken in hoots and grunts, although at least one Riekling Chief was able to speak the common tongue.

Rieklings live in small huts in and appear to have rudimentary yet simple crafting skills of making clothing and weapons. They are known to hoard items such as empty bottles, broken armor, etc. As such, some Riekling tribes live in Dwemer and Nordic ruins on Solstheim.

A few elements of Riekling religion have been mentioned including a ritual known as the Godspeak dance, a fragment of the Godpeak Song, and the construction of shrines. The Godspeak Song goes as follows, "Hawala faaaakara. Baaaa rakhee kaloo. Pooja kan faroo kee jaa. Goora! Goora! Goora!" In Dragonborn, the rieklings of Frossel are observed appearing to worship a crude representation of a horse drawn carriage. However, no known religious leaders, such as shamans, have been seen.^{confirmation needed}

Behavior

Rieklings are generally hostile to the inhabitants of Solstheim as they attack any that come near their settlements. In combat, they use their large numbers to kill their foes, often using ambush techniques against unwary prey. Their main weapon is a spear, which they often throw at their enemies.

By game

• Riekling (Bloodmoon)
• Riekling (Dragonborn)
• Riekling (Online)