Red Dragon

(DRACONIS RUBRIS)

Physical Description

The odor of sulfur and pumice surrounds a Red Dragon, whose swept-back horns and spinal frill define its silhouette. Its beaked snout vents smoke at all times, and its eyes dance with flame when angry. Its wings are the longest of any Chromatic Dragon, and have a blue-black tint along the trailing edge that resembles metal burned blue by fire. The scales of a Red Dragon wyrmling are a bright, glossy scarlet, turning a dull, deeper red and becoming as thick and strong as metal as the dragon ages. Its pupils also fade as it ages, and the oldest Red Dragons have eyes that resemble molten lava orbs.

Habitat

Red Dragons are fiercely territorial and isolationist. They mountainous terrain, badlands, and any other locale where they can perch high and survey their domain. Their preference for mountains brings them into conflict with the hill-dwelling Copper Dragons from time to time. Caves with volcanic or geothermal activity are the most highly prized lairs for Red Dragons, creating hazards that hinder intruders and letting searing heat and volcanic gases wash over a dragon as it sleeps.

Behavior

Red Dragons have been observed flying into destructive rages and acting on impulse when angered. They are so ferocious and vengeful that they are regarded as the archetypal evil dragon by many cultures.