Dragonborn Species in Rolara | World Anvil

Dragonborn

Mythic Dragons of the Mists

The Dragonborn of Aikibira, a species of proud and fiercely independent people, make their homes on the remote island continent of Aikibira. Unlike other dragonborn found across the world of Rolara, the Aikibiran Dragonborn are staunchly atheistic, rejecting the worship of deities or supernatural powers. Instead, they rely on their own strengths, resourcefulness, and cleverness to navigate the challenges of their environment.   Aikibiran Dragonborn are a formidable species. They are physically imposing, with powerful builds, scaled skin, and the ability to breathe a deadly spray of poison. Their isolationist culture values the loyalty of small, tight-knit groups, and they tend to live in isolated compounds outside of the capital city. However, they maintain strong relations with their capital and the families that live there, as well as many cultural similarities.   Dragonborn of Aikibira are not a particularly sociable species, and outsiders may find them to be aloof and reserved. Despite this, they are fiercely loyal to their friends and family and will stop at nothing to protect them. They also possess a strong sense of honor and take great pride in their reputation and the reputation of their family and clan.   In terms of adventuring, Aikibiran Dragonborn are particularly suited to pursuits that involve strength, combat, and survival skills. Their innate magical abilities, derived from their draconic ancestry, also make them formidable sorcerers and wizards. The Aikibiran Dragonborn are master fishermen, and their fishing vessels, powered by a special orb, are a sight to behold.   The Aikibiran Dragonborn's rejection of the supernatural may make them seem at odds with the rest of the world of Rolara, but their tenacity, resourcefulness, and loyalty make them a valuable addition to any adventuring party.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Aikibiran Dragonborn are an imposing sight, standing tall at an average height of 6.5 feet and weighing around 300 pounds. They have a thick, muscular build, with broad shoulders and a strong frame. Their heads are dragon-like, with powerful jaws lined with razor-sharp teeth and a pair of curved horns that protrude from their forehead. Their eyes are typically golden or amber in color, and their nostrils flare with each breath they take.   Aikibiran Dragonborn have tough, scaly skin that is often a deep shade of green, brown, or gray, and they have a long, powerful tail that helps them maintain balance and agility in battle. Their hands are also covered in scales, with sharp claws that they can use to devastating effect in combat.   In addition to their physical prowess, Aikibiran Dragonborn have powerful lungs that allow them to hold their breath for extended periods underwater, reflecting their heritage as a seafaring people. They also possess a keen sense of smell and hearing, honed over generations of living in the dense jungles and forests of their homeland.   Despite their fearsome appearance, Aikibiran Dragonborn are a highly intelligent and cultured species, with a rich history of art, music, and philosophy. Their cities and temples are marvels of ancient engineering, and their written language is one of the most complex and beautiful in the world. Despite their atheistic beliefs, they have a strong sense of community and loyalty to their kin, which has helped them survive and thrive in a world full of danger and chaos.

Genetics and Reproduction

The genetics of Aikibiran Dragonborn are a unique blend of their dragon ancestry and humanoid traits. Dragonborn females lay eggs, which are fertilized by Dragonborn males. The eggs are large and require a lot of attention during incubation. They are usually kept in a warm and safe place until they hatch, which can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months depending on the subspecies of the dragon ancestor.   There are several subspecies of Aikibiran Dragonborn, each with their unique set of physical characteristics and abilities. These subspecies can interbreed, resulting in offspring that may have traits from both parents. However, the offspring usually takes after the mother's subspecies in terms of physical features.   Dragonborn society places a high value on family and offspring, as children are rare and cherished. Families are typically small, with parents raising only one or two children at a time. The children are taught from a young age about their draconic heritage and cultural traditions, as well as basic survival skills.   In terms of fantasy phylogenetics, Aikibiran Dragonborn are closely related to dragons, with whom they share a common ancestor. Over time, their ancestors evolved to become more humanoid in appearance and behavior while retaining their dragon traits. The interbreeding between different subspecies of Dragonborn suggests that their gene pool is relatively flexible, allowing for new variations to arise over time.

Growth Rate & Stages

Dragonborn have a unique growth cycle that differs from that of most other humanoid species. From birth to adolescence, a Dragonborn's growth is relatively slow. However, once they reach adolescence, their growth rate accelerates rapidly, and they can reach their full size within a few short years.   During their growth phase, young Dragonborn go through several physical changes. Their scales harden and darken, and their tails become stronger and more dexterous. They also gain the ability to breathe fire, ice, or lightning, depending on their ancestry. As they continue to grow, their wings expand, allowing them to fly for longer periods of time.   Dragonborn, like many reptiles, continue to grow throughout their lives, although at a much slower rate than during their adolescent growth spurt. They also have a longer lifespan than most humanoid species, with some living up to 200 years.   Their unique growth cycle and longevity are believed to be related to their draconic ancestry, with their physical changes resembling those of dragons. Despite their reptilian nature, Dragonborn possess a rich and complex culture, with their own unique traditions and beliefs.

Civilization and Culture

Culture and Cultural Heritage

The Dragonborn of Rolara are a unique and fascinating species, with a rich culture and heritage that spans centuries. They are reptilian in nature, with scales covering their bodies and a powerful tail used for balance and movement. They stand tall and proud, often with imposing builds and sharp, angular features.   One of the defining characteristics of Dragonborn culture in Rolara is their atheism. This comes as a result of their history, where magic was sealed away from the world and the gods fell silent. The Dragonborn saw no evidence of any higher power and thus came to the conclusion that they were on their own in the world. This belief has shaped their culture and is reflected in their customs, rituals, and daily lives.   Dragonborn society in Rolara is largely isolated, with small, tight-knit communities spread out across the island continent of Aikibira. These communities value loyalty and honor, and often have close relations with family members who live in the capital city of Aikibira. Despite this isolation, there are many cultural similarities between the Dragonborn across the continent, with shared traditions, music, and art.   Their genetics and reproductive cycle are unique, with a long gestational period and distinct growth stages that can last for decades. Young Dragonborn mature slowly and require a significant amount of care from their parents and community members. This emphasis on family and community is reflected in their societal structures, with elders holding significant power and respect.   The Dragonborn are also known for their advanced technology, particularly in the field of maritime transportation. Their fishing vessels are a marvel of ancient Dragonborn technology, piloted by the intentions of the Captain attuned to a crystal orb. The ships are a crucial part of Dragonborn society, allowing them to survive and thrive despite the dangers of the surrounding waters.   Despite their atheism, the Dragonborn hold a deep respect for the natural world and its power. They have a particular reverence for the Aikibiran Dragons, a species of large, predatory beasts that inhabit the island continent. These beasts are revered for their strength and ferocity, with Dragonborn hunters often challenging them to test their own skills and bravery.   Overall, the Dragonborn culture and heritage in Rolara is rich and multifaceted, shaped by their unique biology, history, and beliefs. Their isolation and emphasis on community, combined with their advanced technology and respect for the natural world, make them a fascinating and formidable species in the world of Rolara.

Common Customs, Traditions and Rituals

Dragonborn customs and traditions in Rolara are as ancient as the mountains that tower over their cities. It is said that these traditions have been passed down from generation to generation, a testament to their unwavering devotion to their history and heritage.   One such custom is the ritual of passage, which every young Dragonborn must undergo to prove themselves worthy of adult status. The ritual involves a treacherous journey through the perilous wilderness, where the young Dragonborn must fend for themselves against beasts and monsters that roam the land. Upon returning to their home city, the young Dragonborn are welcomed with great celebration and respect, having earned their place among the adult members of their community.   Another tradition that is closely observed among the Dragonborn is their sense of loyalty and honor. It is believed that one's loyalty to their family, clan, and city is an unbreakable bond that must be upheld at all times, even at the cost of one's own life. They value their small, tight-knit communities and the bonds they share, and will go to great lengths to protect their loved ones and their way of life.   Dragonborn society is also deeply rooted in their love of the sea and fishing. They have developed advanced technology that allows them to brave the dangerous waters around their island continent, and their ships are a testament to their ingenuity and skill. They take great pride in their fishing vessels, which are each powered by a crystal orb attuned to its captain. This allows the ship to be piloted by the captain's intentions alone, making them the envy of seafarers across the world.   Overall, the Dragonborn culture in Rolara is rich and varied, with traditions and customs that have stood the test of time. They are a proud and honorable people, fiercely loyal to their kin and the land they call home.

Common Taboos

  • Taking advantage of those weaker or less fortunate than oneself, including but not limited to exploitation, abuse, or neglect
  • Killing or harming other Dragonborn, particularly of one's own clan or family
  • Eating the flesh or eggs of Aikibiran Dragons, or otherwise harming or disrespecting them
  • Using magic to manipulate or harm others without just cause
  • Becoming too involved with outsiders, particularly those who practice religions or beliefs that are seen as incompatible with Dragonborn culture
  • Neglecting one's duties to family, clan, or community
  • Dishonoring one's ancestors or failing to pay proper respect to those who have passed on
  • Breaking a promise or oath sworn in the name of one's clan or family
  • Failing to take responsibility for one's actions or decisions
  • Using or possessing forbidden technology or magic that could potentially harm the environment or upset the natural balance

Interspecies Relations and Assumptions

In the world of Rolara, Dragonborn have a unique relationship with other species due to their isolationist tendencies. As a result, they have very few allies or enemies in the world. Nonetheless, the Dragonborn hold strong respect for other sentient beings, and generally avoid causing them harm.   One of the few exceptions to this rule is their relationship with Kobolds. While Kobolds are a subrace of Dragonborn, they are viewed as inferior due to their smaller size and weaker physical strength. Kobolds are often subjected to discrimination, being relegated to the lowest levels of Dragonborn society, and sometimes even forced into slave labor. However, some Dragonborn show compassion towards Kobolds and may work towards their integration into society.   As a species, Dragonborn do not have any natural enemies, though they do have a history of conflict with the Orcs. The Orcs and Dragonborn had a long-standing rivalry for control over resources, territory, and influence in the world. In the past, these conflicts often led to open warfare between the two groups. Today, tensions between the two species remain, but are largely kept in check by treaties and diplomatic negotiations.   Dragonborn also have a mixed relationship with Humans. While some Dragonborn view Humans as allies and trading partners, others see them as potential threats to their society and culture. This mistrust is due in part to the past actions of Human empires that have sought to subjugate and control the Dragonborn. Nonetheless, the Dragonborn recognize that they cannot survive in isolation forever, and so many of their leaders have begun to foster more positive relationships with neighboring Human kingdoms.   Finally, the relationship between Dragonborn and other dragon-like creatures is complex. While they share many similarities, Dragonborn are fiercely independent and have little interest in being subservient to more powerful creatures. As a result, the Dragonborn often keep their distance from dragons and other such beings. However, some Dragonborn may seek out relationships with these creatures if they can find common ground or if there is something to be gained.
Scientific Name
Humanoid
Origin/Ancestry
Draconic
Geographic Distribution
Related Myths

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