'Those Underfoot is a short fantasy story set within the sprawling city of Antoria. Below the surface dwell the Kobolds, persecuted by the lords of the city above and struggling to survive. When a flicker of hope rises, offering understanding and prosperity, it heralds a change that could completely reshape their world. But is it too good to be true?
Full Description:
The creative piece Those Underfoot is a short fantasy story centred around a young female Kobold named Kem. The main theme of the story is misinformation and how it can be used to demonise minorities and excuse genocide. Those Underfoot drew inspiration from the very real mistreatment of the Thylacine (otherwise known as the Tasmanian Tiger), which were slaughtered by colonist farmers for the bounty on their heads by the government. This bounty was placed because the farmers were greedy and falsely claimed that the Thylacine was a sheep killer so the government would be forced to make the bounty and give them money. The story also makes reference to how once the last Thylacine died in a zoo, people reported sightings of more Thylacines and claimed that they were not extinct to excuse themselves from the guilt of genocide. Those Underfoot is set in a fantasy world, and draws on some elements readers may not be familiar with. Significantly, the race known as Kobolds that is central to the piece, is a somewhat obscure monster race typically known for their greed and cowardice. This story uses a deeper understanding of their culture and traits as its basis however, as while the common view of Kobolds sees them as pests and troublemakers, looking beyond this stereotype reveals a much richer and more civilised society than otherwise indicated. Kobolds are short, bipedal reptilians closely related to dragons. They are hard working and devoted to the needs of the tribe over those of an individual. Kobolds prefer to dwell in tunnels and cave systems, most of which they dig out themselves, where they can easily continue to unearth the precious gems and metals that call to them. While related to dragons, Kobolds are generally wingless and cannot breath fire or use other breath weapons. Some Kobolds can draw on their draconic heritage to use magic, and these sorcerers are revered by their kin. Further information regarding Kobolds is available, but is not necessary to understand the story.
