Kobolds

Kobolds are distantly related to dragons and are often found serving them as minions. Kobolds speak a version of the Draconic tongue, with a yipping accent.They will plan and dig mines industriously, while laying cruel traps for interlopers. If they must confront an enemy, they will mass their troops for an ambush. Among the monstrous humanoids, they are known for cunning plans; unlike many, they also share those plans among the tribe. General plans and goals are common knowledge, and detailed plans are shared with all who ask, to allow them to work fruitfully for the good of the tribe. Kobolds have a natural hatred of other non-draconic creatures because of mistreatment of their race. They tend to mind their own business and prefer to run than fight. They have been known to be roped in as conscripts for Goblin armies in some instances.

Kobolds have specialized laborers, yet the majority of kobolds are miners. The most coveted careers are trap-maker, sorcerer, caretaker, and warrior. Kobolds typically apprentice in their chosen profession at the age of three. A kobold's job may change over the years based on the needs of the tribe. Kobold tribes are gerontocracies, ruled by their eldest member, who is known as the All-Watcher. Often this leader is a powerful sorcerer. Kobold laws may change along with their leaders. Kobolds prefer exile to execution, and in some disputes, kobolds tribes will split in order to spread their kind over a larger region. Kobolds often lay eggs in a common nest, with specialized foster parents to watch over the eggs and wyrmlings (young under one year).

Kobold society is tribal with war bands based on clans. As many as ten families can be part of a clan. Each clan is responsible for patrolling a ten-mile radius. They are accomplished warirors and can protect thier home when it comes to it, but as a rule tend to mind thier own business unless something happens to disrupt their clan zone. They prefer to hide or run to fighting.

Kobolds are the most numerous of all the demi-races (Goblin, Hob-Goblin, Knoll, Kobold).

Some of the Kobold tribes have started to break out of the caves and moved to the forests. They tend to be great trappers and fairly accomplished gathers.

Kobolds often dwell near a dragon's lair, maintaining a safe distance and offering sacrifice to their god.....most dragons ignore the kobolds much like a crocodile ignores the birds that pick its teeth clean. Once in a great while a young dragon (which Trystys is) will take an interest in the kobold cult, which then becomes a real menace to the dragons enemies. Their alignment (good/evil) tends to come from what sphere of dragon they end up worshiping, (Metal *good* or chromatic *evil*).