Imps are one of the seven Council races of Rivellon.
Background
According to Seven Gods, the Imps were created by Xantezza, who wanted a race gifted in intelligence and magic. Despite this, evidence suggests Imps were originally from the world of Nemesis. It's possible Xantezza simply became their patron after their arrival in Rivellon, much like Amadia with the Wizards and Undead. The Imps themselves claim to be a mixed breed of demons and an old, forgotten race. This means they have the cleverness of demons without the inherent evil of their ancestor race.
The Imps were originally subjugated by Nemesis' demonic overlords after making a one-sided deal with them in exchange for knowledge. They managed to escape the plane entirely, fleeing the demons from place to place. It's unclear if these are the only Imps, however; there were Imps on Rivellon all the way back in the time of Dragon Commander, and a significant number of Imps were working for Boreas in Hiberheim.
Divine Divinity
Imps are primarily encountered as enemies working for the Black Ring. There are a few non-Black Ring Imps, however; ZixZax, Antx (who used to work for the Black Ring but left after it became to dangerous), and Antx's assistant.
The Imps who are not working under the Black Ring wear colorful but simple clothing. All Imps seem to have a verbal tic were they will insert seemingly nonsense syllables at the end of their statements; this disappears in later games.
Beyond Divinity
A number of Imps can be found throughout Nemesis, working for the more powerful residents.
Divinity II: Ego Draconis
Imps (besides ZixZax) appear as generic enemies. They've regressed to a similar technological level as goblins and act pretty much identically. Notably, Imps in this game have dull green skin, unlike every other game in the series.
Divinity: Dragon Commander
Imps are represented on the Council by Trinculo Shortfuse. They're much more technologically inclined than in previous games, constructing war machines and fostering a love for explosives. Their princess was initially a potential bride to the Dragon Commander but blew herself up before she was able to meet him.
Divinity: Original Sin
Aside from Zixzax, the vast majority of Imps appear dead in Hiberheim. The Immaculates made a deal with Boreas, their former ruler, to take control of the Imps who were then massacred, apparently to help create blood stones. More Imps appear at the End of Time after opening a portal to the Hall of Darkness; they explain their origins in detail.
Divinity: Original Sin II
The Imps, like Orcs, are unplayable and have no real bearing on the plot. Despite this, Xantezza, their god, can be seen during certain trips to the Hall of Echoes.
Trivia
- The general appearance, culture, and speaking habits of the Imps vary wildly from game to game.