Drakkin

History

Origin

Though there are a plethora of scaled cultures of people in the southern half of Realms of Avallon, none stand out as much as the Drakkin. A people who trace their origins back to the mighty Dragons themselves, their visage as majestic as it is mystical. Respected all through out the world for their strength, wisdom, and grace alike. Abroad, they often find themselves in leading roles among peers. Literal kin-of-dragons, they are the only mortal people who can naturally spit fire.

The Drakkin are a very long lived race, and are very proficient at everything they do, given enough time. This has lead to them developing a superiority complex, and have all through out their history been driven to expand, subjugate, and assimilate every other culture in to their own ideal system, where they themselves are served as the ruling masters of the world, destined to lead and enlighten.
Unsurprising then, that no matter the age or era of the world, their dominion always persisted, their borders, and their subjects and tributaries, only waxing and waning as time passed by. It is said, that the Drakkin Dominion far predates the Kleriel Imperium of old, and it has since long outlived it, earning itself the mantle of ''The Ancient Empire''.
In large part, the Drakkin owe their realm's continued prosperity to the venerable Dragons who keep vigil over their homeland. These Dragons are worshipped as living deities, and live in lavish palaces high in the sky, perched atop mountain peaks. They receive endless amounts of tribute, and want for nothing, in exchange for their wisdom, and the realm's protection during dire times.

Storm King era

During the Wars of the Storm King, large numbers of even the Drakkin were misplaced, hunted because of their magic. Embarking on the bloodiest crusade in recorded history, the Storm King decided that mortals were not to be trusted with magical abilities, always drawn to destructive ends, so after mortals nearly plunged the world in to a 3rd existential crisis, he sough to purge the entirety of the world of magic users, and wipe the slate clean.
After a bloody civil war at home, at the beginning of the Storm King's insane crusade, those gifted with magic who could not hope to hide from his wrath decided to flee, and so they scattered world wide. And after his defeat at the hands of Hyken and his gathered last-stand attempt atop the Messial Mountains, few of these exiles decided to return home.

Present day

Today, the Drakkin once again stand strong. Their homeland secured and reunited, the remaining Dragons cut all ties with the Storm King and exiled the Dragons who supported his crusade, again celebrating the fact of how gifted the Drakkin are with their magic, and the greatness they might achieve with it.
But, damage was done not just by the Dragons who followed the Storm King, but by his Drakkin armies as well. Many millions saw them as invaders during that time, and they are still viewed with suspicion, or outright hatred, even today.
The Drakkin Dominion, or The Ancient Empire, today encompasses only their own homeland, with the surrounding scaled cultures agreeing to their protection purely based on tradition and close relations since long before. The other races however, are in strong opposition, and have formed alliances to resist any renewed Drakkin expansion.

Description

The Drakkin are an impressive sight to behold, even among the diverse cultures of Avallon. An imposing anthropomorphic Dragon race, the Drakkin are strikingly reminiscent of their draconic ancestors. They stand upright, a dominant stature, commanding attention and respect with their very presence.
Covered in thick, lustrous scales that shimmer in various hues, ranging from the richest of emeralds to the deepest of sapphires, the Drakkin carry their vibrant colors as a badge of honor and a testament to their proud lineage. Their faces are elongated, resembling their dragon forebears with keen, piercing eyes that radiate intelligence and wisdom. Robust horns adorn their heads, often as varied and unique as the Drakkin themselves. These horns not only serve as an intimidating feature but are a mark of prestige and strength within their society.

In addition to these draconic features, Drakkin also possess long, elegant manes that cascade down their backs. A feature more akin to noble steeds or regal lions, these manes add a dignified, almost regal quality to their already majestic image. The Drakkin take great pride in their manes, grooming and maintaining them meticulously. The mane's length and sheen are seen as a reflection of a Drakkin's health and vitality, with each strand a testament to their longevity and the prosperity of their race.
The Drakkin's bodies are a marvel of strength and agility, embodying the power and grace of the dragons they descend from. Their strong, muscular arms end in talon-like hands, capable of both delicate craftsmanship and formidable strength. They move with a grace that belies their size, each step calculated and purposeful. Their posture radiates confidence, their movements are fluid and their eyes hold an ageless wisdom, a constant reminder of their long, storied history.