The Origin of the Kobolds of Elysium

Once long ago, in the twilight of Elysium's ancient past, this vibrant planet was but a remote outpost for Humanity. The colonists who arrived here, filled with ambition and dreams, thrived for generations. But their fate changed irrevocably with an event so catastrophic and mysterious that it became known simply as "The Event." In an instant, contact with Earth was severed, communication systems that once bridged the worlds of Humanity now lay silent and dormant, and the once-promising colony slid into decay and chaos.

As time passed, the colonists, cut off from their technological roots, regressed to an era reminiscent of Earth's Victorian age, adorned with remnants of the advanced technology they could neither fully understand nor control. Among the shadows of their crumbling civilization lurked powerful entities, the Daimones, sentient AIs designed to ensure Humanity's survival. Their motives, however, varied; while some sought to preserve, others embraced a more radical approach.

One of these entities, known as The Caretaker, observed the settlers intently, pondering their plight in harmony with Elysium’s rich biodiversity. To The Caretaker, Humanity's sole chance for survival lay in symbiosis with the planet’s life force. With reverence for the ferocious beauty of the native dragons, The Caretaker embarked on a grand experiment—melding Human DNA with that of these magnificent reptiles.

From this union arose the Kobolds, small creatures standing no taller than three feet, but they were imbued with remarkable resilience and adaptability. With slender bodies, long tails, and stout horns, they bore a reptilian grace that made them unlike any of their ancestors. They emerged into a world that was raw and untamed, instinctively drawn to the remnants of power that scattered the land like seeds of possibility. The Kobolds came to venerate those who held dominion over the skies, claiming alliances with dragons, fey, and even forgotten artifacts.

However, their new existence was not unchallenged. The Kobolds soon learned that they were perceived as mere savages by the other inhabitants of Elysium, a perception rooted in the differences of their culture and their primal instincts. Despite their cleverness in ambush tactics and skirmishes, their sense of freedom often put them at odds with the more civilized societies surrounding them. Yet, they thrived on this misalignment; it fueled their ingenuity as crafters, allowing them to become skilled artisans of intricate traps and devices, using whatever scrap they could scavenge. 

Over time, Kobold communities flourished in tunnels, hidden passages, and caves below the vast surface of Elysium. Outsiders who dared to trespass into Kobold lands discovered that behind their perceived savagery lay a complex society that revered strength, sought alliances with might, and celebrated their unique heritage. With a blend of caution and cunning, Kobolds adapted to the shifting tides of Elysium, taking advantage of opportunities while staying vigilant in a world that had forgotten the lessons of their forebears.

As they evolved into a distinct species, the Kobolds became symbolized by their spirited defiance and unyielding pragmatism. Through tribulations and triumphs, they carved out their identity, standing proudly as the sly, resilient denizens of Elysium - a testament to the vision of The Caretaker and a living echo of what it meant to endure against all odds.