Kobolds of Syann
A Brief History of the Kobolds as told by the Kobolds
In the age when the world was still in its infancy, long before the insolent goblins and sun-dwelling humans encroached upon our sacred territory, it was a pristine era ruled by the majestic Dragons. The Elders recount this as a time of dragon dominion, where a sprawling empire prospered, and all bowed before the might of these magnificent creatures. As the Dragons, in their infinite wisdom, sought to forge perfect beings to serve their imperial reign, they birthed the first flawless Kobolds. With the dragons' own blood coursing through their veins, these Kobolds were granted the esteemed privilege of serving the dragon empire. In return, the dragons bestowed upon them the right to claim all they surveyed and command all beings beneath them, save for the revered dragons themselves. Among the creatures of the world, Kobolds were second only to Dragons, and all others were deemed subservient to the Kobold race. Regrettably, this golden age crumbled, and the once-mighty dragon empire fractured, leaving the Kobolds separated and abandoned by their once-glorious masters. Ages passed, marked by the Kobolds enduring countless injustices at the hands of other races inhabiting the world. These disrespectful interlopers dared to challenge Kobold greatness, seizing treasures rightfully belonging to the Kobolds by divine decree. In response, the rightous Kobolds waged wars against these thieving beings, employing cunning traps to weaken and capture those who dared challenge their birthright. The loathsome Gnomes, in particular, drew the Kobolds' ire. These vile creatures, claiming superiority in magic and invention, usurped the very best caves and mines, even purloining great but now lost Kobold inventions as their own. The Kobolds declared a great war against the detested Gnomes, raiding their warrens and reclaiming what was rightfully theirs. The Kobolds scattered the Gnomes, establishing mighty kingdoms in the conquered warrens, while the feeble Gnomes floundered in their stink and foolishness.
Kobolds today at brief look at Kobolds from the Kobold perspective
In the current era, Kobolds perceive themselves as the rightful heirs to world dominance, though unfortunate circumstances and the machinations of other races have compelled them to operate from the shadows as they plot to reclaim what is rightfully theirs. Many Kobolds find refuge in dark forests, deep caves, or the ruins of other races' homes. The fortunate among them are adopted by dragons, who rule as kings and queens, while others, less fortunate, must toil relentlessly to reclaim their birthright from the non-dragons that infest their world. Kobolds take pride in their proficiency in various skills, with a particular emphasis on mining and the art of crafting intricate traps to defend their homes and vanquish their adversaries. Some Kobolds retain the inventive spirit of their forebears, applying their trap-making skills to both magical and mundane crafts. As adept tinkers and inventors, they harness their ancestors' talent to create machines of death, destruction, and war. The Kobold population is vast, with numerous eggs laid, often outnumbering the births of other races. Every Kobold is born with an innate readiness to reclaim what is rightfully theirs, demonstrating a fierce determination to fight and die for the cause and the well-being of their community. Understanding the inherent pecking order of life, Kobolds generally adhere to the principle that weaker individuals must serve the stronger ones. In conflicts between tribes, the prevailing rule is that the strong conquer the weak, and the weaker gladly serve the stronger. Thriving in the present day, Kobolds expand wherever there are dark caves laden with gems and ore to be mined. They flourish in the service of great chromatic dragons, building traps to safeguard treasures and eggs. Whenever there's an opportunity to establish a foothold and strike against the inferior races that resist their dominance, Kobolds swarm, seizing what is not rightfully given to them. In the shadows, they bide their time, plotting and waiting for the moment when they can assert their rightful supremacy over the world.
The truth of the matter
The undeniable truth of the matter is that Kobolds are not merely a naturally occurring species but a carefully crafted creation of dragons. These draconic beings, in a process reminiscent of alchemical practices to craft homunculi, brought forth the first Kobolds using their own blood. However, this creation was not an act of benevolence; rather, it served a specific and calculated purpose. Kobolds were engineered by dragons to be the epitome of servitude, especially to their malevolent kin. Much of Kobold culture, unbeknownst to the majority of the Kobold population, was meticulously designed by dragons. Even their very blood was manipulated with the singular goal of instilling unwavering loyalty to dragonkind. Every aspect of Kobold existence appears to be intertwined with this fundamental purpose. The characteristics that define Kobolds – their diminutive stature, an inflated sense of self-importance, rapid breeding, an ingrained belief in the philosophy of "might makes right," particularly in the context of dragon might, and their proclivity for mining and constructing lethal traps – all serve as evidence of their engineered nature. Kobolds, in essence, are a species of servitors, created with little regard by the dragons who envisioned them. Most malevolent dragons view Kobolds as little more than bothersome and feeble but useful sycophantic minions. Even in the contemporary era, the perception of Kobolds remains consistent. Malevolent dragons find them irritating and weak, yet grudgingly useful for their servitude. On the other hand, more benign dragons may either ignore Kobolds or compel Kobold tribes to adopt less violent lifestyles, seeking to either evade or rectify their slavish worship and adoration. In essence, the Kobolds exist as living testaments to the dragons' manipulation, embodying their role as servile beings designed for the benefit of their draconic overlords. Despite their engineered nature and servile origins, Kobolds, as mortal beings, possess the invaluable gift of free will. Should they choose to exercise this autonomy, some Kobolds, particularly those inclined toward scholarship, may become cognizant of the historical manipulation and abuse inflicted upon them by dragons throughout the ages. These individuals, rare as they may be, may choose to diverge from the values held dear by the majority of their kind. In exceptional cases, certain Kobolds may find themselves drawn to a life beyond their underground lairs, venturing into the wider world. Some may even break away from the traditional subservient role imposed by their draconic creators. These uncommon Kobolds, armed with a sense of independence and a desire for equality, may integrate into adventuring parties, navigating a life beyond the confines of their engineered purpose. Such Kobolds, liberated from the shackles of blind loyalty to dragons, may demonstrate a tolerance for non-dragons as equals, challenging the ingrained prejudices that characterize Kobold culture. Their ability to forge connections with beings outside their kin speaks to the potential for change and individual agency, even in a species designed for servitude. In this way, these unique Kobolds become trailblazers, defying the expectations imposed upon them and carving out a distinct path in a world that extends beyond the subterranean realms of their creation.
The Kobold "gods"
The pantheon of Kobold "gods" is a subject worth delving into, shedding light on the unique blend of literal and philosophical worship within Kobold culture. Foremost among their deities are dragons, both as physical entities and as symbols of power. Many Kobolds draw strength from their faith in the might of dragonkind, establishing a profound connection to these majestic creatures. In addition to their reverence for dragons, a significant portion of Kobold religious beliefs revolves around the veneration of the earth. Worship of the soil, mines, gems, metal, and stone, along with the spirits and beings tied to these elements, constitutes a substantial aspect of Kobold spirituality. Central to Kobold religious practices is the worship of what they term the "Kobold Gods." While this may be framed as ancestor worship, these beings, known as the five first Kobolds, are not necessarily deities in the strict sense. Despite supplying Kobolds with a source of divine magic, their godhood remains speculative. Some believe that in the ancient past, there might have been many more of these "Kobold Gods," each associated with a specific type of dragon or scale color pattern prevalent among Kobold kind. Among the known or most well-remembered "Kobold Gods" are the following: Razeld the Red
Brunzan the Blue
Galaru the Green
Bervask the Black
Wiksek the White
Legend has it that these deities were crafted from the blood of a paragon of Chromatic dragonkind. Kobolds born with scales matching the colors associated with these gods are believed to be blessed by their respective "Kobold Gods." This intricate pantheon reflects the complex interplay between the Kobold reverence for dragons, the earth, and the mythic figures that shape their cultural and spiritual identity.
A more detailed look at the Kobold Gods is as follows, it is of note all have access to the Scaleykind and Magic domains especailly as pertains to sorcery based on draconic bloodlines of their colors.
Razeld the Red
Alignment: NE
Goddess of fire, mountains, hills, treasure, and mining.
Domains: Artiface, Fire, Earth, Evil, Destruction
Favored Weapon: Heavy Pick
Favored Animal: Giant Cave Salamander, Giant Geckos, Fire Lizards
Favored Colors: Red and Gold
Favored Stones: Carnelian, Ruby
Fierce, determined, and commanding. Razeld is the embodiment of the destructive power of fire and the revered patron of mining. Kobolds seeking prosperity beneath the earth invoke her blessings, drawing strength from both the flame's power and the bounty of precious minerals. Brunzan the Blue
Alignment: LE
God of lightning, arid lands, warfare, and traps.
Domains: Air, Artifice, Evil, Law, War
Favored Weapon: Gusiarme
Favored Animal: Shocker Lizards, Frilled Lizards, Giant Lizards
Favored Colors: Blue and Silver
Favored Stones: Lapis Lazuli, Sapphire
Stern, electrifying, and strategic. Brunzan extends his influence to the creation of traps, embodying the calculated and strategic nature of Kobold warfare. Devotees call upon him for inspiration in crafting ingenious traps that protect their homes and treasures, ensuring the security of their subterranean dwellings. Galaru the Green
Alignment: LE
Goddess of poison, forests, jungle lands, animal taming, and sneaking.
Domains: Animal, Evil, Law, Plant, Trickery
Favored Weapon: Shortbow
Favored Animal: Boars and Dire Boars
Favored Colors: Green and Brown
Favored Stones: jade, Emerald
Sly, cunning, and adaptable. Galaru, in addition to embodying the subtlety of poison, is the patron of sneaking and thievery. Kobolds seeking to navigate the shadows invoke her for the prowess to move stealthily, conduct covert operations, and even tame the creatures of the wild. Bervask the Black
Alignment: NE
God of acid, swampy lands, spite, assassination, and resilience.
Domains: Destruction, Darkness, Evil, Protection, Water
Favored Weapon: Shortsword
Favored Animal: Snakes of all kinds, Lizards, Frogs and Toads
Favored Colors: Black and Deep Purple
Favored Stones: Obsidian, Onyx
Patient, corrosive, and resilient. Bervask's influence extends to the swamps and marshes, embodying a deity of spite and the enslavement of non-Kobolds. Kobolds call upon him for endurance in overcoming challenges and the ability to corrode obstacles over time, showcasing their tenacity and dominance. Wiksek the White
Alignment: NE
Goddess of ice, arctic lands, tenacity, hunting, and survival.
Domains: Animal, Evil, Strength, Travel, Water
Favored Weapon: Battle Axe
Favored Animal: Giant Weasel
Favored Colors: White and Pale Blue
Favored Stones: Moonstone, Diamond
Cold, calculating, and relentless. Wiksek, while embodying the chilling power of ice, is also the patron of survival. Kobolds invoke her for the ability to endure harsh conditions, navigate through icy landscapes, and persist in the face of adversity. Her influence extends to hunting, emphasizing the importance of resourcefulness in the frigid expanses.
Rites and Rituals: The exact rites and rituals of each Kobold god varies from group to group, though all share in common themes respective of their domains, a tendency to sacrifice the hearts, livers or other vital organs of beasts, non-kobolds or kobolds from rival groups. The sacrifice of gems and treasure is also practiced but only when there is a dragon to give such offers to. The individual role and traditions of the priest and priestess of these gods tends to also very fairly widly from one group of kobolds to the next.
In the age when the world was still in its infancy, long before the insolent goblins and sun-dwelling humans encroached upon our sacred territory, it was a pristine era ruled by the majestic Dragons. The Elders recount this as a time of dragon dominion, where a sprawling empire prospered, and all bowed before the might of these magnificent creatures. As the Dragons, in their infinite wisdom, sought to forge perfect beings to serve their imperial reign, they birthed the first flawless Kobolds. With the dragons' own blood coursing through their veins, these Kobolds were granted the esteemed privilege of serving the dragon empire. In return, the dragons bestowed upon them the right to claim all they surveyed and command all beings beneath them, save for the revered dragons themselves. Among the creatures of the world, Kobolds were second only to Dragons, and all others were deemed subservient to the Kobold race. Regrettably, this golden age crumbled, and the once-mighty dragon empire fractured, leaving the Kobolds separated and abandoned by their once-glorious masters. Ages passed, marked by the Kobolds enduring countless injustices at the hands of other races inhabiting the world. These disrespectful interlopers dared to challenge Kobold greatness, seizing treasures rightfully belonging to the Kobolds by divine decree. In response, the rightous Kobolds waged wars against these thieving beings, employing cunning traps to weaken and capture those who dared challenge their birthright. The loathsome Gnomes, in particular, drew the Kobolds' ire. These vile creatures, claiming superiority in magic and invention, usurped the very best caves and mines, even purloining great but now lost Kobold inventions as their own. The Kobolds declared a great war against the detested Gnomes, raiding their warrens and reclaiming what was rightfully theirs. The Kobolds scattered the Gnomes, establishing mighty kingdoms in the conquered warrens, while the feeble Gnomes floundered in their stink and foolishness.
Kobolds today at brief look at Kobolds from the Kobold perspective
In the current era, Kobolds perceive themselves as the rightful heirs to world dominance, though unfortunate circumstances and the machinations of other races have compelled them to operate from the shadows as they plot to reclaim what is rightfully theirs. Many Kobolds find refuge in dark forests, deep caves, or the ruins of other races' homes. The fortunate among them are adopted by dragons, who rule as kings and queens, while others, less fortunate, must toil relentlessly to reclaim their birthright from the non-dragons that infest their world. Kobolds take pride in their proficiency in various skills, with a particular emphasis on mining and the art of crafting intricate traps to defend their homes and vanquish their adversaries. Some Kobolds retain the inventive spirit of their forebears, applying their trap-making skills to both magical and mundane crafts. As adept tinkers and inventors, they harness their ancestors' talent to create machines of death, destruction, and war. The Kobold population is vast, with numerous eggs laid, often outnumbering the births of other races. Every Kobold is born with an innate readiness to reclaim what is rightfully theirs, demonstrating a fierce determination to fight and die for the cause and the well-being of their community. Understanding the inherent pecking order of life, Kobolds generally adhere to the principle that weaker individuals must serve the stronger ones. In conflicts between tribes, the prevailing rule is that the strong conquer the weak, and the weaker gladly serve the stronger. Thriving in the present day, Kobolds expand wherever there are dark caves laden with gems and ore to be mined. They flourish in the service of great chromatic dragons, building traps to safeguard treasures and eggs. Whenever there's an opportunity to establish a foothold and strike against the inferior races that resist their dominance, Kobolds swarm, seizing what is not rightfully given to them. In the shadows, they bide their time, plotting and waiting for the moment when they can assert their rightful supremacy over the world.
The truth of the matter
The undeniable truth of the matter is that Kobolds are not merely a naturally occurring species but a carefully crafted creation of dragons. These draconic beings, in a process reminiscent of alchemical practices to craft homunculi, brought forth the first Kobolds using their own blood. However, this creation was not an act of benevolence; rather, it served a specific and calculated purpose. Kobolds were engineered by dragons to be the epitome of servitude, especially to their malevolent kin. Much of Kobold culture, unbeknownst to the majority of the Kobold population, was meticulously designed by dragons. Even their very blood was manipulated with the singular goal of instilling unwavering loyalty to dragonkind. Every aspect of Kobold existence appears to be intertwined with this fundamental purpose. The characteristics that define Kobolds – their diminutive stature, an inflated sense of self-importance, rapid breeding, an ingrained belief in the philosophy of "might makes right," particularly in the context of dragon might, and their proclivity for mining and constructing lethal traps – all serve as evidence of their engineered nature. Kobolds, in essence, are a species of servitors, created with little regard by the dragons who envisioned them. Most malevolent dragons view Kobolds as little more than bothersome and feeble but useful sycophantic minions. Even in the contemporary era, the perception of Kobolds remains consistent. Malevolent dragons find them irritating and weak, yet grudgingly useful for their servitude. On the other hand, more benign dragons may either ignore Kobolds or compel Kobold tribes to adopt less violent lifestyles, seeking to either evade or rectify their slavish worship and adoration. In essence, the Kobolds exist as living testaments to the dragons' manipulation, embodying their role as servile beings designed for the benefit of their draconic overlords. Despite their engineered nature and servile origins, Kobolds, as mortal beings, possess the invaluable gift of free will. Should they choose to exercise this autonomy, some Kobolds, particularly those inclined toward scholarship, may become cognizant of the historical manipulation and abuse inflicted upon them by dragons throughout the ages. These individuals, rare as they may be, may choose to diverge from the values held dear by the majority of their kind. In exceptional cases, certain Kobolds may find themselves drawn to a life beyond their underground lairs, venturing into the wider world. Some may even break away from the traditional subservient role imposed by their draconic creators. These uncommon Kobolds, armed with a sense of independence and a desire for equality, may integrate into adventuring parties, navigating a life beyond the confines of their engineered purpose. Such Kobolds, liberated from the shackles of blind loyalty to dragons, may demonstrate a tolerance for non-dragons as equals, challenging the ingrained prejudices that characterize Kobold culture. Their ability to forge connections with beings outside their kin speaks to the potential for change and individual agency, even in a species designed for servitude. In this way, these unique Kobolds become trailblazers, defying the expectations imposed upon them and carving out a distinct path in a world that extends beyond the subterranean realms of their creation.
The Kobold "gods"
The pantheon of Kobold "gods" is a subject worth delving into, shedding light on the unique blend of literal and philosophical worship within Kobold culture. Foremost among their deities are dragons, both as physical entities and as symbols of power. Many Kobolds draw strength from their faith in the might of dragonkind, establishing a profound connection to these majestic creatures. In addition to their reverence for dragons, a significant portion of Kobold religious beliefs revolves around the veneration of the earth. Worship of the soil, mines, gems, metal, and stone, along with the spirits and beings tied to these elements, constitutes a substantial aspect of Kobold spirituality. Central to Kobold religious practices is the worship of what they term the "Kobold Gods." While this may be framed as ancestor worship, these beings, known as the five first Kobolds, are not necessarily deities in the strict sense. Despite supplying Kobolds with a source of divine magic, their godhood remains speculative. Some believe that in the ancient past, there might have been many more of these "Kobold Gods," each associated with a specific type of dragon or scale color pattern prevalent among Kobold kind. Among the known or most well-remembered "Kobold Gods" are the following: Razeld the Red
Brunzan the Blue
Galaru the Green
Bervask the Black
Wiksek the White
Legend has it that these deities were crafted from the blood of a paragon of Chromatic dragonkind. Kobolds born with scales matching the colors associated with these gods are believed to be blessed by their respective "Kobold Gods." This intricate pantheon reflects the complex interplay between the Kobold reverence for dragons, the earth, and the mythic figures that shape their cultural and spiritual identity.
A more detailed look at the Kobold Gods is as follows, it is of note all have access to the Scaleykind and Magic domains especailly as pertains to sorcery based on draconic bloodlines of their colors.
Razeld the Red
Alignment: NE
Goddess of fire, mountains, hills, treasure, and mining.
Domains: Artiface, Fire, Earth, Evil, Destruction
Favored Weapon: Heavy Pick
Favored Animal: Giant Cave Salamander, Giant Geckos, Fire Lizards
Favored Colors: Red and Gold
Favored Stones: Carnelian, Ruby
Fierce, determined, and commanding. Razeld is the embodiment of the destructive power of fire and the revered patron of mining. Kobolds seeking prosperity beneath the earth invoke her blessings, drawing strength from both the flame's power and the bounty of precious minerals. Brunzan the Blue
Alignment: LE
God of lightning, arid lands, warfare, and traps.
Domains: Air, Artifice, Evil, Law, War
Favored Weapon: Gusiarme
Favored Animal: Shocker Lizards, Frilled Lizards, Giant Lizards
Favored Colors: Blue and Silver
Favored Stones: Lapis Lazuli, Sapphire
Stern, electrifying, and strategic. Brunzan extends his influence to the creation of traps, embodying the calculated and strategic nature of Kobold warfare. Devotees call upon him for inspiration in crafting ingenious traps that protect their homes and treasures, ensuring the security of their subterranean dwellings. Galaru the Green
Alignment: LE
Goddess of poison, forests, jungle lands, animal taming, and sneaking.
Domains: Animal, Evil, Law, Plant, Trickery
Favored Weapon: Shortbow
Favored Animal: Boars and Dire Boars
Favored Colors: Green and Brown
Favored Stones: jade, Emerald
Sly, cunning, and adaptable. Galaru, in addition to embodying the subtlety of poison, is the patron of sneaking and thievery. Kobolds seeking to navigate the shadows invoke her for the prowess to move stealthily, conduct covert operations, and even tame the creatures of the wild. Bervask the Black
Alignment: NE
God of acid, swampy lands, spite, assassination, and resilience.
Domains: Destruction, Darkness, Evil, Protection, Water
Favored Weapon: Shortsword
Favored Animal: Snakes of all kinds, Lizards, Frogs and Toads
Favored Colors: Black and Deep Purple
Favored Stones: Obsidian, Onyx
Patient, corrosive, and resilient. Bervask's influence extends to the swamps and marshes, embodying a deity of spite and the enslavement of non-Kobolds. Kobolds call upon him for endurance in overcoming challenges and the ability to corrode obstacles over time, showcasing their tenacity and dominance. Wiksek the White
Alignment: NE
Goddess of ice, arctic lands, tenacity, hunting, and survival.
Domains: Animal, Evil, Strength, Travel, Water
Favored Weapon: Battle Axe
Favored Animal: Giant Weasel
Favored Colors: White and Pale Blue
Favored Stones: Moonstone, Diamond
Cold, calculating, and relentless. Wiksek, while embodying the chilling power of ice, is also the patron of survival. Kobolds invoke her for the ability to endure harsh conditions, navigate through icy landscapes, and persist in the face of adversity. Her influence extends to hunting, emphasizing the importance of resourcefulness in the frigid expanses.
Rites and Rituals: The exact rites and rituals of each Kobold god varies from group to group, though all share in common themes respective of their domains, a tendency to sacrifice the hearts, livers or other vital organs of beasts, non-kobolds or kobolds from rival groups. The sacrifice of gems and treasure is also practiced but only when there is a dragon to give such offers to. The individual role and traditions of the priest and priestess of these gods tends to also very fairly widly from one group of kobolds to the next.
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Interesting article. Thanks for sharing and entering this into the Special Category! God bless and much success with your New Year's plans! <3
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