Long (Lohng)

Miniature Dragon

The Long of Tír na nÓg is not large nor loud—but every curve of its body and flick of its whiskered face whispers wisdom older than language. Descended from the great Chinese dragons, this miniature version glides above streams and forest glades, its pearlescent body reflecting sky and river alike. It does not breathe fire. It does not claim territory. Instead, it offers something far rarer: stillness shaped by knowledge.
Dwelling near sacred springs, moonlit lakes, and shaded rivers, the Long prefers the presence of quiet rather than solitude. It drifts just above the water, propelled by breath and thought, rarely disturbing a ripple. Many claim that springs grow purer, mists clearer, and minds calmer in its presence. It does not speak, but its gaze seems to see to the bottom of one's spirit. Some say they dream more clearly after a Long glides past—even if they never saw it directly.
The Long’s body is smooth and flowing, built like water in motion. Its mane, trailing along its back and down to its tail, sways as though underwater even in still air. Scales shimmer in subtle hues that shift with light—pearls, blues, forest greens. Its tendrils, soft and ribbon-like, detect air pressure, emotion, and sound vibrations, making it highly attuned to its surroundings. When it rests, it curls like a calligraphy brushstroke—complete and unassuming.
Rarely seen in groups, the Long lives alone but leaves signs of its passing. Stones arranged in spirals, dew patterns on wide leaves, or the faint hum of harmonic wind are said to be its subtle greetings. Despite its gentle nature, other creatures defer to its path. They sense it as a guardian—not of places, but of intention. It appears most often when a crossroads is reached—be it literal or spiritual—and never forces a path but quietly invites reflection.
To encounter a Long is to feel both humbled and comforted. It embodies the principle of balance—not through control, but presence. Its message, though silent, is always the same: walk with care, act with purpose, and let the world move around you without resistance.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Elegant and serpentine, with smooth scales and a mane that flows like water down its back.

Biological Traits

The scales possess a subtle glow, particularly during the full moon, and are sought after for their purported healing properties.

Genetics and Reproduction

Rarely seen mating rituals occur only once per decade, aligned with celestial events, resulting in a clutch of crystalline eggs.

Ecology and Habitats

Tranquil lakes, rivers, and the moist earth of the island's enchanted forests.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Herbivorous, with a preference for the sacred lotuses of the Divine Groves, which are thought to prolong their life.

Biological Cycle

Linked to the lunar cycle, their energy and vitality wax and wane with the moon.

Behaviour

Solitary and contemplative, known for their gentle demeanor and the wisdom they impart in rare encounters.

Additional Information

Social Structure

Known to live in seclusion, they are revered by other creatures who often leave offerings at their known resting places.

Facial characteristics

Wise eyes that sparkle like dewdrops, with tendrils that gently sense the world around them.

Average Intelligence

Highly intelligent, often considered the embodiment of the island's ancient knowledge.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Highly attuned to the elemental forces, particularly water and earth, sensing even the slightest disturbances.

Civilization and Culture

Gender Ideals

Gender is seen as fluid among the Miniature Long, with no distinct roles or characteristics between males and females.

Relationship Ideals

Bonds are formed on a spiritual level during mating, seen as a union of essences rather than mere physical connection.

History

Semi-sapient, with a deep-seated respect for the natural order and the well-being of the island.

Common Myths and Legends

Thought to possess the power to grant blessings of fertility to the land and its inhabitants.

Interspecies Relations and Assumptions

Acts as a guardian of the island's sacred spaces, maintaining harmony within the ecosystem.

Genetic Ancestor(s)

• Beastiary: Mythic Beasts

Scientific Name

Ainmhí; Draíocht; Sino long

Origin/Ancestry

Directly descended from the dragons of legend, embodying the principles of balance and harmony.

Average Height

3.28ft

Average Weight

661.39 lbs

Average Length

32.81ft

Average Physique

Lithe and powerful, capable of navigating both the water's depths and the forest's complexity.

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

Pearlescent scales that reflect the hues of their environment, from the blues of the water to the greens of the forest.