Kobold

Basic Information

Anatomy

Kobolds are a small, bipedal species of surprising intelligence. They bear a vague resemblance to the dragons from which they claim their origin. Their bodies are entirely covered in scales, including their flexible tails. Their feet resemble talons of a falcon in their strange stance, and the claws that tip their feet and hands. Their eyes have a slitted pupil similar to other reptiles, and their facial scales and horns are in such a variety that they can be used to distinguish individuals. They do not have external ears, merely an oval aperature with a thin membrane. Typically they stand at half the height of an average man, but a traveler would be unwise to judge by their size alone, as they are quite agile.

Genetics and Reproduction

Kobolds have a gestation period of less than a year, though the specific length is unknown. It has been suggested by some that it may be as short as 3 months, allowing their populations to replenish quickly. It is believed that kobolds hatch from large eggs. It is unknown whether they are able to walk after birth like many prey animals, or if they are as helpless as a human infant.

Ecology and Habitats

Kobolds are an exceedingly common species, despite constant efforts to prevent their spread throughout our shores. They range through every biome, but seem to be most at home in the mountains, or underground like ants.

Dietary Needs and Habits

The kobold diet seems similar to any dog. They are omnivorous, but prefer fresh meat. They have been witnessed cooking, but seem satisfied with raw foods in most instances.

Additional Information

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Kobolds possess a tapetum lucidum, as well as sight in the range of heat, making them adept in the dark tunnels they usually call home. Their hearing and sense of smell seems to be the same as a human’s.

Civilization and Culture

Naming Traditions

Example female names: Patrisski, Ferassti, Menasstriss, Pfeerini, Natisska
Example male names: Vy’tach, Temassil, Da’eetikae, Lokaniil, Trossaki
Kobolds have a surname that belongs to the entire clan. When they come of age, they choose their given name that they feel best represents them. While they are still growing up, they often go by a short nickname to other children, and “Hatchling” to adults. An adult kobold may be called their childhood nickname by their close friends (often their squad members).
Example child names: Kass, Tiss, Viss, Loki, Trissi, Pfinni, Natti, Missti

Culture and Cultural Heritage

• “Communism that worked.” Organized, very lawful, communal workers. Guided by the advice of elders and their kobold moral compass for cooperation. Worship D’hathmilleuthil Goal is to amass enough treasure to catch D’hathmilleuthil’s attention Kobolds function in squads made of 6 kobolds, formed after they come of age into a close-knit bond that allows them to work very effectively together. Kobolds will often not accept new squad members, even if some die. On occasion, kobolds may work in a half-squad of 3 when necessary for a task. A kobold’s highest individual aspiration is to get their (and their squad’s) names carved onto the ceiling of their clan’s Great Hall.

Interspecies Relations and Assumptions

Kobolds are often at odds with other species, given their proclivity for theft and opportunistic murder. It is highly advised to avoid them without training and experience. Kobolds seem to regard laws as a challenge to overcome, and hold no respect for basic respect for property. This extends so far as ignoring land ownership, causing significant headaches to locals and government officials alike.