Dragonborn

Origins and Physiology

The Dragonborn of Naphus are a proud and resilient race with a deep connection to the ancient dragons, the first creatures to inhabit the world. While they lack the full majesty of their draconic ancestors, Dragonborn share several physical and cultural traits that set them apart as one of the most formidable species on Naphus. Born of dragons, yet outcasts among most mortal races, Dragonborn carry a history steeped in war, exile, and tyranny. Unlike the myths of noble dragon progeny, Dragonborn are divided between those who remain under the yoke of Nilvirkus, the Dragon King, and those who fled his rule, living as fugitives in foreign lands.

Dragonborn of the Blue Islands, also called the Isles of Nilvirkus, are a distinct and isolated species of draconic humanoids. Their lineage is directly tied to Nilvirkus, the tyrannical blue Dragon King who has ruled the islands for centuries.The Blue Islands are a fortress of loyalty and fear, where Nilvirkus’ will is law. The Dragonborn who dwell there know no existence beyond servitude, whether as warriors, artisans, or devoted worshippers. Those who escape must live in hiding, for the Dragon King does not forgive deserters. 

Unlike other dragonic species, Dragonborn possess both warm-blooded and cold-blooded traits, allowing them to endure various climates. However, their biological dependence on external heat sources has shaped a key aspect of their culture: sunbathing.

Dragonborn scales are naturally resistant to heat and arid conditions, an adaptation likely linked to Nilvirkus’ lightning-based powers and the islands’ warm climate. Their coloration varies, but most exhibit blue or azure scales, a mark of their connection to the ruling dragon’s bloodline. Rarely, some are born with other hues—these individuals often face discrimination or exile within the rigid societal structure of the isles.

Dragonborn reproduction is oviparous; females lay eggs after a gestation period of approximately three months. Eggs are usually kept in a warm, protected environment, and hatchlings emerge after another three to four months. Clutches typically contain 1–3 eggs. A Dragonborn’s draconic traits are strongly influenced by their lineage, with characteristics such as scale color and breath weapon often resembling those of their draconic ancestor. Dragonborn stand between 6 and 7 feet tall and weigh 250–350 pounds, with a muscular, bipedal build. Their bodies are covered in tough scales that provide a natural armor. Their scales come in a wide variety of colors, often reflecting their draconic lineage, such as metallic hues (gold, silver, bronze) or chromatic shades (red, blue, green, black, white). Some rare Dragonborn have hybrid or faded colors, indicating mixed ancestry or magical influence. Their heads are distinctly reptilian, with strong jaws, pronounced snouts, and sharp teeth. Their horns and crests vary widely, serving as a secondary sexual characteristic or an indicator of their lineage. Dragonborn in Naphus have long, powerful tails used for balance, communication, and sometimes combat. Their eyes are strikingly draconic—slit pupils set in vibrant hues of gold, red, or icy blue, giving them a piercing and almost otherworldly gaze. Dragonborn typically live around 120 – 150 years, reaching adulthood at 15. Their rapid growth reflects the intensity of their lives and the harsh conditions they often endure.

Sunbathing

One of the most unique aspects of Dragonborn culture is their deep-rooted need to sunbathe. Like other reptilian species, they rely on external heat sources to regulate their body temperature, making the sun an integral part of their daily lives. However, this biological necessity has also developed into a cultural and social tradition.

Sunbathing among Dragonborn is more than just a method of thermoregulation—it is a revered practice akin to the communal bathhouses of ancient civilizations. To share the warmth of the sun with another is an act of trust and camaraderie. It is common for families, friends, and even military units to gather in designated sunbathing terraces, enjoying the heat while engaging in quiet conversation or contemplative silence. In contrast, solitary sunbathing is viewed as a time for reflection and personal meditation. On the Isles of Nilvirkus, large, open-air courtyards are dedicated to this practice, often adorned with stone carvings of Nilvirkus himself. Religious and political speeches are frequently given in these spaces, reinforcing the Dragon King’s dominance over both the minds and bodies of his people.

For Dragonborn living in exile, sunbathing is a rare and secretive pleasure. Many find themselves forced to adapt to colder climates, relying on artificial heat or indoor spaces to replicate the experience of basking under the sun. Despite their fear of exposure, some exiles still find ways to uphold this cherished tradition, reminding them of a homeland that, for better or worse, they can never return to. Sunbathing remains one of the few traditions untainted by war. Among exiles, it is a sacred moment of peace and remembrance, a time when they can close their eyes and pretend—for just a moment—that they are home.

Self-Sufficient Clans To the Dragonborn, clan is everything—or at least, it was before exile shattered their unity. Those raised on the Isles see loyalty to Nilvirkus as sacred, a duty that overrides even family bonds. Betrayal of the Dragon King is punishable by death, and deserters are hunted without mercy. For exiled Dragonborn, clan traditions still hold weight, though necessity has forced many into secrecy. They seek out lost kin, forming hidden enclaves along the coasts of the Argarian Sea, surviving through trade, mercenary work, or piracy. Trust is hard-won, but a Dragonborn’s oath is unbreakable once given. The Cult of Nilvirkus and Dragonborn Society

The Isles of Nilvirkus have never been conquered, not due to lack of attempts but because of the sheer military might and strategic defenses of their Dragonborn inhabitants. Nilvirkus rules as both a king and a god, demanding absolute loyalty from his subjects. His regime operates as an authoritarian state, where obedience is enforced through a strict military hierarchy, constant surveillance, and a pervasive cult of personality. Statues and murals glorifying Nilvirkus dominate the landscape, and rituals in his honor are required of all citizens. Children are trained from an early age to fight, defend the isles, and uphold Nilvirkus’ laws. Dissent is met with swift retribution, and many who oppose the regime vanish into the dungeons beneath the royal palace, never to be seen again. This unyielding rule has ensured the isles’ security but has also driven many Dragonborn to flee in secret.

The Legacy of the Necrophage War

Over 300 years ago, at the height of the Necrophage crisis, Nilvirkus saw an opportunity to profit from the chaos. He lent massive Dragonborn armies to the Embershard Kingdom in exchange for an enormous sum of gold—a debt that Embershard is still struggling to repay. While most Dragonborn fought as loyal soldiers of Nilvirkus, some defected, unwilling to die for a war they did not believe in. These defectors, and their descendants, now live in hiding, scattered along the coasts of the Argarian Sea.

For them, life is one of paranoia. The long reach of Nilvirkus’ enforcers means that any Dragonborn found outside the isles risks imprisonment, execution, or forced return to face judgment. As a result, they avoid cities, preferring isolated communities or solitary existences along rugged shores. Despite their fear, their numbers have slowly grown, and some dream of one day rising against Nilvirkus and reclaiming their freedom.

Proud but Hunted Kin Dragonborn in Naphus stand apart from the common races, their scaled bodies and piercing eyes marking them as something unnatural to most. Tall and powerful, their presence often inspires awe, fear, or suspicion, depending on the lands they walk. Their scales bear the hue of their draconic lineage, though those from the Isles tend to have blue or bronze scales due to their heritage. While once an honored race of warriors, mainland Dragonborn are now fractured remnants of a people on the run. The bloodlines of defectors have mingled with time, producing varied shades of draconic features. Some, however, still show the deep azure of their homeland, a trait that makes them a target for Nilvirkus’ agents.
Dragonborn in the World of Naphus Unlike in other settings, Dragonborn in Naphus are rare and often feared. Among humans, their appearance is unnatural, leading to distrust or outright hostility. In the Blue Islands, loyalty is absolute, and defectors are hunted like criminals.
Dragonborn Names Dragonborn are given personal names at birth, but their clan name is their true identity. Among exiles, some abandon their old names to protect their kin, while others take on new names, blending into human society.
Male Names: Arrikan, Brashir, Donaar, Ghesh, Korrash, Mevrik, Naldir, Rashaan, Tarhurn, Zorvash Female Names: Akhira, Drisani, Harann, Kivara, Nalla, Pethani, Sarviss, Torrani, Zaiha Clan Names: Emberscale, Nilvarkaan, Stormclaw, Thundercall, Virexan
Dragonborn Traits Your draconic heritage manifests in a variety of traits unique to Dragonborn.
Ability Score Increase Your Strength score increases by 2, and your Charisma score increases by 1.
Age Dragonborn mature quickly, reaching adulthood by 15. They live around 80 years.
Alignment
Most Dragonborn tend toward extremes, either embracing honor and loyalty or forging their own path. Those raised in the Blue Islands are often Lawful, while exiles lean toward Neutral or Chaotic
Size Dragonborn are taller and heavier than humans, often standing over 6 feet tall and weighing 250-300 pounds. Your size is Medium.
Speed Your base walking speed is 30 feet.

Draconic Ancestry Your draconic heritage determines your breath weapon and resistance. Most Dragonborn from the Blue Islands have Blue Dragon ancestry, but exiles may descend from varied bloodlines. 

Dragon,Damage Type,Breath Weapon Blue,Lightning,5 by 30 ft. line (Dex. save) Bronze,Lightning,5 by 30 ft. line (Dex. save) Black,Acid,5 by 30 ft. line (Dex. save) Red,Fire,15 ft. cone (Dex. save) Green,Poison,15 ft. cone (Con. save) White,Cold,15 ft. cone (Con. save) Silver,Cold,15 ft. cone (Con. save) Brass,Fire,5 by 30 ft. line (Dex. save)

Breath Weapon You can use your action to exhale destructive energy. The shape and saving throw are determined by your Draconic Ancestry. • Saving Throw DC = 8 + Constitution modifier + Proficiency Bonus • Creatures in the area take 2d6 damage on a failed save, half on a success. • Damage increases to 3d6 at 6th level, 4d6 at 11th level, and 5d6 at 16th level. • You must finish a short or long rest before using it again.
Damage Resistance You have resistance to the damage type of your Draconic Ancestry.

Sunborn Heritage Dragonborn have a deep connection to sunlight, both culturally and physically. While this trait is mostly symbolic, exiles have turned it into a survival tool. • If you spend one uninterrupted hour sunbathing, you gain temporary hit points equal to your Proficiency Bonus + Constitution modifier once per long rest.

Languages You can speak, read, and write Common and Draconic. Draconic is an ancient language, filled with hardened consonants and deep sibilants, often used in arcane study.

Conclusion

The Dragonborn of the Blue Islands are a people shaped by isolation, tyranny, and survival. Their biology has defined their culture, from their need for sunbathing to their warrior traditions. Nilvirkus’ iron-fisted rule ensures that his domain remains untouched by outside forces, but his reign has also driven many to flee, leaving behind a fractured legacy. Whether hidden along the shores of the Argarian Sea or standing proudly within the isles, every Dragonborn carries the weight of their heritage, bound by the shadow of the Dragon King.