Kobold

In the shadowy recesses of subterranean realms, the diminutive but cunning Kobold scurries amidst tunnels and caverns, a creature born of instinct and survival. Standing no more than three feet tall, these reptilian humanoids possess scaly hides ranging in color from earthy browns to vibrant reds. With their snout-like snouts, beady eyes, and a row of small, sharp teeth, Kobolds bear a resemblance to their draconic kin.

Despite their small stature, Kobolds are resourceful and tenacious, compensating for their physical limitations with their cleverness. They thrive in environments where larger creatures may falter, skillfully navigating tight passages and leveraging their knowledge of traps and hidden passageways to their advantage. Their affinity for trap-making is renowned, and they eagerly deploy snares and pitfalls to defend their lairs or waylay unsuspecting intruders.

Kobolds are deeply communal creatures, living in tight-knit tribes led by a chief or a shaman. Their social structure is highly hierarchical, with each member assigned a specific role based on their strengths. Warriors armed with crude weapons stand at the forefront of any conflict, while nimble scouts and adept trap-makers aid their brethren with their unique skills. Magic-wielders, often shamans or sorcerers, tap into primal forces or tap into latent draconic magic to bolster their tribe’s defenses.

Though individually weak, Kobolds are known for their sheer numbers and their willingness to overwhelm foes with swarming tactics. Their cunning and penchant for ambushes, combined with their agility and familiarity with their labyrinthine lairs, make them formidable adversaries when they perceive a threat to their kin or their territory. They often rely on hit-and-run tactics, darting in and out of combat, making use of their natural agility to avoid direct confrontation.

However, it would be remiss to overlook the softer side of the Kobolds. Despite their ferocity, they possess a childlike curiosity and an affinity for craftsmanship. They are known to create intricate trinkets and small mechanical devices, driven by their love of tinkering and an innate talent for engineering.

Encountering a tribe of Kobolds is a precarious situation, as they view larger creatures with a mix of fear and defiance. Engaging with them requires careful negotiation or an overwhelming show of force to assert dominance. Those who underestimate these clever reptilian beings may find themselves ensnared in a web of traps or overwhelmed by their tenacious resilience.

The Kobold represents a small but formidable adversary, embodying the notion that size alone does not dictate one’s ability to thrive and survive. Their cunning, communal nature, and skill for trap-making make them a challenging and memorable encounter for adventurers who dare to delve into the depths where the Kobolds call home.

Special Abilities

Sunlight Sensitivity

While in sunlight, the kobold has disadvantage on attack rolls, as well as on Wisdom (Perception) checks that rely on sight.

Pack Tactics

The kobold has advantage on an attack roll against a creature if at least one of the kobold’s allies is within 5 ft. of the creature and the ally isn’t incapacitated.

Actions

• Dagger: Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 4 (1d4 + 2) piercing damage.
• Sling: Ranged Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, range 30/120 ft., one target. Hit: 4 (1d4 + 2) bludgeoning damage.