Kobold

Basic Information

Anatomy

Kobolds are small, reptilian humanoids standing between 2' and 3' tall. They have scaly skin that ranges in color from dark rusty brown to reddish black, with colored bands on their bodies. They have glowing red eyes, small horns, and rat-like tails. Their hands and feet are clawed, adapted for digging and climbing.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Omnivorous scavengers, Kobolds can eat almost anything. They prefer meat but will consume fruits, vegetables, and even inorganic materials in times of scarcity. Some kobolds develop a taste for metals or gems, a trait inherited from their draconic ancestors.

Behaviour

Kobolds are known for their cunning, resourcefulness, and unwavering loyalty to their tribe and draconic masters. They have a complex social structure based on a strict hierarchy, with the strongest or most clever kobold leading the tribe. They're excellent problem-solvers and trap-makers, using their intelligence to compensate for their physical weakness.

Kobolds have a deep-seated inferiority complex due to their small size and relative weakness compared to other draconic races. This often manifests as extreme devotion to stronger draconic beings or an obsessive drive to prove their worth through cunning plans and intricate traps.

Despite their often-vicious reputation, Kobolds can form strong bonds within their tribe and with those who earn their respect. They have a communal mindset, always putting the needs of the tribe before individual desires.

Additional Information

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Kobolds have good darkvision. They have a keen sense of hearing, making them excellent scouts and trappers. Their small size and agility give them an advantage in navigating tight spaces.

Civilization and Culture

Naming Traditions

• Descriptive Names. Often based on physical features or notable deeds.
• Draconic Influence. Many names include draconic sounds or references to revered dragons.
• Tribe Names. Kobolds often include their tribe name when introducing themselves formally.

Examples of Kobold names:

• Meepo of [tribe name]
• Sniv the [deed]
• Drakk the [achievement]

History

Kobolds, known in Draconic as Irlymkovor or "Little Kin," have a unique origin among the dragonkin. They were created during the First Dragon War (Vorel Jivarn Vargach) as a deliberate attempt by dragons to bolster their forces against the elves.
As the war between dragons and elves intensified, dragons sought to create smaller, more numerous allies to employ in horde-battle tactics. Using a combination of their blood and powerful magic, they gave life to the first kobolds. These diminutive draconic creatures were designed to be loyal, numerous, and capable of operating in environments where full-sized dragons might struggle.
While individually less powerful than their draconic creators, kobolds quickly proved their worth through their sheer numbers, unwavering loyalty, and surprising ingenuity. Their small size allowed them to navigate tight spaces and set up elaborate traps, making them excellent scouts and saboteurs in the war against the elves.
After the Great Divide (Malsvir Ghoros) that split chromatic and metallic dragons, kobolds found themselves aligned with both factions. Their loyalty to dragonkind as a whole often superseded the chromatic-metallic divide, though individual kobold tribes might show stronger allegiance to one type of dragon over another.
In the aftermath of the war and the subsequent reshaping of draconic society, kobolds carved out a niche for themselves. They often served as caretakers of draconic lairs, maintainers of ancient draconic sites, and fervent worshippers of dragon deities. Their societies developed complex hierarchies that often mimicked draconic social structures.
Kobolds became known for their trap-making skills, mining abilities, and their capacity to thrive in harsh environments. Many kobold communities established themselves in cave systems or abandoned mines, creating intricate warren-like settlements that served as both home and defense.
Despite their small stature, kobolds inherited a strong sense of draconic pride. They see themselves as direct descendants of dragons and often go to great lengths to prove their worth to their larger kin. This devotion sometimes manifests in elaborate rituals, the collection of dragon-related artifacts, or zealous protection of draconic interests.
In modern times, kobolds continue to play a significant role in draconic affairs. Many still serve dragons directly, acting as minions, spies, or caretakers. Others have established independent communities, though these often maintain strong ties to draconic culture and traditions.
Kobold ingenuity has led to advancements in areas such as mining, trap-making, and small-scale engineering. Some kobold inventors have even gained renown for their clever contraptions and innovative solutions to problems.
While often underestimated by other races due to their small size, kobolds have proven time and again to be resourceful, tenacious, and fiercely loyal to their draconic heritage. Their continued existence and ability to thrive in various environments stand as a testament to the enduring legacy of dragonkind and the success of their creation during the ancient wars.

Genetic Ancestor(s)

• Dragonkind

Scientific Name

Irlymkovor ( Little Kin )

Origin/Ancestry

Draconic magical experiments

Lifespan

120 years

Average Height

2' - 3'

Average Weight

35 - 45 pounds