dregin

Dregin is a term used in fantasy literature and role-playing games to denote a subterranean humanoid race. The specifics of the dregin vary by work, but they are commonly portrayed as adapted to life in dim, mineral-rich environments and as possessing a reserved, secretive culture.

Physical characteristics typically include a compact, humanlike frame of about 1.0 to 1.4 meters in height, slate-gray or ash-colored skin, large eyes suited to low light, and bioluminescent markings that glow gently for communication. They have strong hands and specialized dentition for mining and processing ore. They inhabit cave networks, lava tubes, and underground rivers.

Society and culture are usually organized into clans led by elder councils. Craftsmanship, especially stone-working, metalwork, and forge or temple construction, is highly valued. They maintain territorial boundaries and often engage in trade or diplomacy with surface peoples, mediated by skilled negotiators. Dregin culture tends to emphasize observation, patience, and subtlety in interaction with outsiders.

In fiction and games, dregin are used as antagonists, reluctant allies, or enigmatic guardians of ancient forges. Their portrayal often explores themes of adaptation, isolation, and the exchange between underground and surface cultures. Because the term appears across multiple works, details about dregin differ, and readers should consult the specific source material for precise descriptions.