Kobold

Kobolds are diminutive, dragon-descended creatures known for their craftiness and a deep-seated survival instinct that defines their societal structures and interactions. Their lineage traces back to ancient times when dragons mingled their blood with that of Goblins, creating a race that inherited aspects of both magical prowess and cunning adaptability. Today, kobolds are widespread but often live on the fringes of other societies, making their homes in subterranean warrens or in hidden enclaves within hostile environments.
Personality: Kobolds are inherently cautious and shrewd, with a natural inclination toward self-preservation that often gets mistaken for cowardice. However, when their community is threatened, they display a remarkable level of bravery and resourcefulness. They possess an average intelligence but are highly ingenious, capable of setting complex traps and devising strategies that make full use of their surroundings and limited resources. Kobolds are highly communal and exhibit an intense loyalty to their clan, often willing to sacrifice individual needs for the group’s greater good.
Physical Description: Kobolds stand between 2 to 2.5 feet tall, with scaly skin that ranges from dark rusty brown to a reddish tint, reflecting their draconic heritage. They have reptilian features, including a snout-like nose, ridged ears, and sharp, pointed teeth. Their eyes are usually red or yellow, capable of seeing in almost complete darkness. Despite their small stature, they are surprisingly hardy, with lean muscles adapted for digging and swift movements. Their tails are long and tapering, aiding in balance. Kobolds are generally considered to be an adult at the age of 5, but may not be finished physically, physiologically, and psychologically developing until around the age of 10. The average expected life span of a Kobold is about 50 years.
Relations: Kobolds have a complicated relationship with other races, often viewed as nuisances or pests rather than serious threats. They typically keep to themselves unless their territory is invaded. Historically, they have clashed with Dwarves and Gnomes over underground territory and resources. Relations with Goblins are ambivalent, marked by both conflict and cooperation. Kobolds rarely interact with larger humanoids unless manipulated or coerced by more powerful beings, like dragons or evil Wizards.
Alignment: Kobolds lean towards Lawful Evil, influenced by their strict hierarchical society and the ruthless drive to survive against all odds. They are not inherently malicious but are pragmatic and often follow the strongest leader, usually a powerful dragon or a capable chieftain.
Lands: Kobolds thrive in environments that others might deem inhospitable, such as deep underground caverns, dense, thorny forests, or abandoned ruins. Their settlements are well-hidden and heavily trapped to deter invaders. They excel in creating intricate tunnel systems and are adept at using the terrain to their advantage.
Religion: Kobolds primarily worship dragon deities or aspects of draconic power, viewing dragons as the ultimate representations of strength and wisdom. Immolyth is particularly revered, embodying the power and cunning that kobolds aspire to. Religious ceremonies often involve offerings of treasure and sacrifices to earn favor or protection from their draconic patrons.
Language: Kobolds speak Draconic, a language they inherit from their dragon ancestors, which serves as a badge of pride and a practical tool for reading ancient draconic texts and performing magical rituals.
Names: Kobold names are usually harsh, guttural, and carry significant meaning within their culture. Family names are rare, as kobolds identify more strongly with their clan names.

• Masculine Names: Sniv, Grik, Kresh, Varn, Mirk
• Feminine Names: Kella, Irsk, Yipnik, Wix, Tress
• Unisex Names: Skreek, Blark, Hisk, Ratch, Plick
• Family/Clan Names: Flamejaw, Ironscale, Darkclaw, Gritshard, Stonemaw

Adventurers: Kobolds become adventurers usually out of necessity—either being driven from their homes or on a mission to procure resources for their clan. They excel as Rogues or Sorcerers, utilizing their natural stealth and innate magic to survive in the world beyond their burrows. Kobold adventurers are rare but can be fiercely loyal allies, often sticking close to those who prove trustworthy and capable of supporting their goals.

Lifespan

50 years

Average Height

2-2.5 ft.

Average Weight

25-35 lbs.

Related Organizations

• Northern Reaches

Personal Characteristics

Personality Traits

• “I obsess over collecting interesting bits and bobs I find during my travels.”
• “I’m naturally cautious, always looking for an escape route in any situation.”
• “I take pride in my ability to create and fix things, a handy skill in dire times.”

Ideals

• Resourcefulness: “Waste not, want not. Everything has a purpose, and I intend to find it.”
• Loyalty: “My clan is my strength. I will do anything to protect it.”
• Cunning: “Brains over brawn; cleverness will save the day when strength fails.”

Bonds

• “I owe my life to the clan leader who took me in when I was orphaned.”
• “A human adventurer once showed me kindness, and I’ve never forgotten it.”
• “I am determined to rebuild the ancient trap-filled temple that was once my clan’s home.”

Flaws

• “I can’t help but pocket shiny objects, which sometimes gets me into trouble.”
• “I am paranoid and overly suspicious, even of my allies.”
• “My fear of the dark can be crippling, making me hesitant in dangerous situations.”