Dragons

Basic Information

Anatomy

The Dragons of Trakkenstreim are about the size of a large draft horse. They stand on two legs, with vestigial forelimbs serving as means of attack. Their large wings extend to a maximum wingspan of around five metres, and they are coloured in earthy tones - browns, blacks, dull reds and greens. Their hides are a combination of leathery skin and scales, and these provide protection against weaker attacks. However, they are only as strong as boiled leather, and thus can be penetrated by strong forces.

Growth Rate & Stages

Dragons grow slowly, so their species is always in danger. They spend a full year in gestation, and then spend about ten years in childhood. Dragon juveniles have weak skin and bones, and therefore rarely leave their home caves. Their childhood ends when they take their first flight, and that is when their mother leaves them. They then have to care for themselves, and start the birth cycle again.

Ecology and Habitats

Dragons are adapted to the cold, so temperate climates are uncomfortable for them. They prefer high-altitude climates, and therefore they frequent the mountainous terrain in the middle of Trakkenstram. A similar species is found on the coast of the crystal sea, in Atreius, but these are not true Dragons, for they are much bigger and much less intelligent. For these creatures, see 'Atreian Wyrm'.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Dragons are hunters, and they are perfectly adapted to hunt in their natural environment. Their icy breathe causes paralysis, meaning they often don't have to make a chase. However, when they do, they are extremely adept at pursuing aerially, but low to the ground. They generally then use their breathe, or, if up against bigger prey, gore the prey with their horns. Their jaws are quite weak, actually, so they tend to avoid biting until their prey is dead.

Additional Information

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

They have eyesight as strong as any bird of prey, while their hearing is poor. Their smell is very sensitive at close range, but at longer distances it is dramatically weaker.

Genetic Descendants

• Rock Drake

Lifespan

120 years

Conservation Status

These creatures are protected by the Wizards who lived in Eleros peacefully for years before its colonisation. They are kept hidden from the settlers for their own safety, although they are, of course, occasionally sighted when hunting.

Average Height

2m

Average Length

3m

Discovered by

Eleroth Draconis