Shortlings

Shortlings are lurking creatures shown in the eight-minute Fatekeeper gameplay reveal. They inhabit the ruins of the long-dead alpine fortress where the demo takes place, skittering through shadows and waiting for anyone bold enough to step into their domain. Shortlings are the most-named enemy in pre-launch material because they appear in the showcase environment.

Confirmed Behavior

• Lurking. They wait in shadows rather than charging on sight.

• Mobile. They skitter and reposition, reading more like fast scouts than slow brutes.

• Group threats. They appear in groups in the showcase footage, suggesting pack tactics rather than solo encounters.

Combat Tips

• Spacing. Use dodge or telekinesis to keep them from swarming.

• Area damage. Wide-arc swings (axes, halberds) and handbombs punish their tendency to cluster.

• Magic. Multi-projectile fire spells cover the ground around the Druid.

Open Questions

Shortlings are described in pre-launch coverage with shorthand (lurking, skittering, hidden in shadow), but their full bestiary entry, weakness type, faction allegiance, and lore origin have not been disclosed. Whether they are tied to

the Underdwellers, to corrupted wildlife, or to a third faction is unconfirmed.