Dragons of Cevantia

Creation of Dragons:

In the mythos of Cevantia, Dragons were not created in the conventional sense. Instead, they emerged from the convergence of primordial elemental forces and the raw magical energy that permeated the world. As these forces coalesced, they birthed the first Dragons, magnificent beings of immense power and wisdom. These ancient Dragons embodied the elements themselves and possessed the ability to manipulate and control them.

Ancient Origins:

The origins of Dragons trace back to a time long before the rise of mortal races in Cevantia. They were among the first sentient creatures to exist, witnessing the dawn of the world. In the early ages, Dragons roamed the vast landscapes, exploring and shaping the realms as they pleased. They possessed an inherent understanding of the magical energies that flowed through Cevantia, and they became the guardians and stewards of these mystical forces.

Dragon Society and Hierarchy:

Dragons developed intricate societies with their own hierarchies and roles. At the pinnacle of this hierarchy were the Ancient Dragons, the eldest and most powerful beings of their kind. These majestic creatures embodied the accumulated wisdom and magic of countless centuries. Often reclusive and contemplative, the Ancient Dragons served as keepers of arcane knowledge and acted as mentors to the younger generations. Beneath the Ancient Dragons were the revered Elder Dragons, who played pivotal roles in governing Dragon society. These wise and experienced beings guided the younger Dragons, oversaw important decisions, and ensured the preservation of Dragon traditions. Adult Dragons formed the next tier, having honed their magical abilities and acquired formidable strength. They often held positions of influence and carried out various responsibilities within their communities.

Life Cycle and Growth:

The life cycle of Dragons was a marvel in itself, spanning centuries. Dragons were born from ancient eggs that required an extensive incubation period. These eggs were carefully guarded and protected, as they held the potential for new life and power. Once hatched, Dragons emerged as Wyrmlings—small and vulnerable, yet possessing an innate connection to magic. As Wyrmlings grew, they embarked on a journey of self-discovery and development. They underwent several growth stages, each accompanied by physical transformations and the acquisition of new abilities. Young Dragons would become Juveniles, their powers expanding and their connection to their elemental affinities becoming more pronounced. With time, they would progress to the stage of Young Adults, where their magical prowess truly flourished. Ultimately, Dragons reached their maturity as Adult Dragons. These majestic beings displayed the full extent of their magical potential, often specializing in specific elemental domains such as fire, ice, lightning, or earth. They commanded immense power and were renowned for their mastery over their chosen elements. The most ancient Dragons, known as Great Wyrms, were colossal creatures capable of shaking the very foundations of the world.

Interaction with Mortals:

Throughout the annals of history, Dragons interacted with mortal races, forging alliances or rivalries, depending on their disposition. Some Dragons regarded mortals with indifference, considering them insignificant and fleeting in the grand scheme of things. Others, however, were more benevolent and saw value in the mortal races, offering guidance, protection, or imparting wisdom to those deemed worthy. Many epic tales and legends sprung from the encounters between Dragons and mortals. Stories of heroic Dragon-slayers, who sought to vanquish these mighty beasts and claim their treasures, became the stuff of folklore. Conversely, tales of Dragon-riders, individuals who formed deep bonds with Dragons and soared through the skies on their backs, captivated the imaginations of many. Their creation and history are intricately woven into the fabric of the realms, shaping the destiny of both mortal races and the magical energies that define the world. Their presence is revered and feared, for they embody the awe-inspiring power and mystery of the high-magic fantasy realm of Cevantia.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Dragons possess a majestic and formidable anatomy. With their massive size and imposing presence, their bodies are a symphony of strength and grace. Their long, sinuous necks extend from broad shoulders, leading to a powerful chest and a muscular torso. Along their backs, a row of sturdy, bony ridges provides structural support and adds to their awe-inspiring appearance. Dragons have strong, clawed limbs that allow them to navigate various terrains with ease, whether it be scaling mountains or traversing dense forests. Their tails, often adorned with spikes or bony protrusions, serve as both a balance mechanism and a weapon capable of delivering devastating strikes. Dragons' bodies are covered in scales, which can vary in color and texture, providing both protection and camouflage in their surroundings.

Biological Traits

Dragons in the high-magic world of Cevantia possess an array of extraordinary biological traits that distinguish them from other creatures. Their bodies are covered in resilient scales, offering formidable protection against physical and magical attacks. These scales can vary in color and pattern, often reflecting the Dragon's elemental affinity. Dragons also exhibit exceptional regenerative abilities, allowing them to heal from wounds and injuries at an accelerated rate. This remarkable regenerative power enables them to recover from injuries that would be fatal to most other creatures. Another defining trait is their ability to breathe devastating breath weapons, each aligned with their elemental affinity. Whether it be streams of scorching fire, freezing blasts of ice, bolts of crackling lightning, or other magical energies, Dragons can unleash devastating attacks upon their adversaries

Growth Rate & Stages

Wyrmling (Age 0-5 years)

A wyrmling emerges from its egg fully formed and ready to face life. From the tip of its nose to the end of its tail, it is about twice as long as the egg that held it (the actual size of the wyrmling depends on the variety of dragon). A newly hatched dragon emerges from its egg cramped and sodden. After about an hour, its ready to fly, fight, and reason. It inherits a considerable body of practical knowledge from its parents, though such inherant knowledge often lies buried in the wyrmling's memory, unnoticed and unused until it is needed. Compared to older dragons, a wyrmling seems a little awkward. Its head and feet are slightly oversized, and its wings and tail are proportionately smaller than they are in adults. If a parent is present at the wyrmlings hatching, the youngster has a protector and will probably enjoy a secure existence for the first decades of its life. If not, the wyrmling faces a struggle for survival. If a parent is present, the wyrmling receives instruction on draconic matters and the chance to accompany the parent during its daily activities. Wyrmlings on their own sometimes seek out older dragons of the same kind as mentors. Among good dragons, such relationships tend to be casual and often last for decades (a fairly short period by dragon standards). The youngster visits the older dragon periodically (monthly, perhaps weekly) for advice and information. Evil dragons, too, often counsel wyrmlings that are not their offspring-- evil dragons lack any sense of altruism, but usually understand the role of youth in perpetuating the species. No matter what kinds of dragons are involved, such mentor-apprentice relationships require the younger dragon to show the utmost respect and deference to the older dragon, and to bring the mentor gifts of food, information, and treasure. Should the older dragon ever come to view the apprentice as a rival, the relationship ends immediately; when evil dragons are involved, the ending is often fatal for the younger dragon.

Very Young (Age 6-15 years)

By age six, a dragon has grown enough to double its length, though its head and feet still seem too big for the rest of its body. It becomes physically stronger and more robust. The dragon's larger size often makes finding a new lair necessary, Many dragons relocate at this stage anyway, especially if they do not have parental support. (After the dragon has hunted in an area for five years, the location of the lair might have become known to outsiders, or the area around the lair could become depleted of prey). In most ways, a very young dragon remains much like a wyrmling, albeit more confident in itself.

Young (Age 16-25 years)

By age sixteen, most dragons begin a new growth spurt that eventually carries them to their adult size-- though they still retain a wyrmling's overlarge head and feet. Their intellects become sharper as they gain life experience and master their innate abilities. At this stage, a dragon begins to feel the urge to collect treasure and establish a territory (although it might well have done both sooner). In some cases, however, a young dragon continues to share its lair and its territory with nestmates or parents. Dragons that leave the nest when they become young often range far from their home lairs, seeking locales where they can set up housekeeping on their own.

Juvenile (Age 26-50 years)

By age twenty-six, a dragon is well on its way to adulthood. It has nowhere near the physical power of an adult, but it has an adults body proportions. Some species exhibit the first of their magical powers at this stage.

Young Adult (Age 51-100 years)

As it passes the half-century mark, a dragon enters adulthood (although its body keeps growing for many more years). It is ready to mate, and most dragons lose no time in doing so. By this age, a dragon's scales have developed into armor formidable enough to turn aside all but magic weaponry or the teeth and claws of other dragons. A young adult dragon also masters its first spells and shows evidence of a formidable intellect. A young adult dragon severs its ties with nestmates, mentors, and parents (if it has not done so already) and establishes its own lair and territory.

Adult (Age 101-200 years)

During the second century of its life, a dragon's physical growth begins to slow-- but its body is just entering its prime. With the dragon's initial growth spurt over, the dragon's body becomes even more powerful and healthy. An adult dragon continues to hone its mental faculties and masters more skills and magic. At this stage in life, a dragon is most likely to take a long-term mate and share its lair with a mate and offspring.

Mature Adult (Age 201-400 years)

When a dragon passes the two-century mark, its physical and mental prowess continue to improve, though it usually undergoes little obvious physical change. By this stage of life, a dragon is truly a force to be reckoned with-- and it knows it. Mature adults display a degree of self-confidence that younger dragons lack. Mature adults seldom seek out danger just to prove themselves (except, perhaps, against other dragons). Instead, they act with purpose and confidence, often launching schemes that take years to complete. Because of a mature adult's power, wealth, and age, it seldom remains unnoticed in the larger world. Its name becomes known, at least among other dragons, and it often becomes the target of rival dragons or adventurers. One of a mature adult's first orders of business is to review and improve the defenses in its lair. Often, the dragon relocates as a matter of prudence. The dragon never chooses its new lair hastily, and usually includes in its plans some scheme to secure more treasure. Bards' tales of dragons destroying kingdoms and seizing their treasuries often have their roots in true accounts of what happens when a mature adult dragon is on the move.

Old (Age 401-600 years)

By the time most dragons reach this age, their physical growth stops, though they become even more hardy, and their minds and magical powers continue to expand with the passing centuries. Old dragons usually begin to show some outward signs of aging; Their scales begin to chip and crack at the edges and also to darken and lose their luster (though some metallic dragons actually take on a burnished appearance), and the irises in their eyes begin to fade, so that their eyes begin to resemble featureless orbs. Most old dragons continue to hone the patient cunning they began to develop as mature adults. Though quick to defend what they regard as their own, they seldom rush into anything, preferring instead to plumb the possibilities in any situation before acting.

Very Old (Age 601-800 years)

After passing the six-century mark, a dragon becomes even more resistant to physical punishment. It begins mastering potent spells and magical abilities. This is the last stage of life in which female dragons remain fertile, and most females attempt to raise at least two clutches of eggs before their reproductive period runs out.

Ancient (Age 801-1,000 years)

By this stage, female dragons have reached the end of their reproductive years. Many females compensate by mentoring younger dragons of the species, as do many males. Ancient dragons have little to fear from much younger dragons that have not yet reached adulthood, and they have much wisdom and experience to pass on. Most dragons at this age have minds to match the best and brightest humans, and they can tap into vast stores of knowledge, both practical and esoteric. They also become extremely dangerous beings for the other beings in the lands.

Wyrm (Age 1,001-1,200 years)

Surviving for more than a thousand years is a grand accomplishment, even for dragons, and this stage is a great milestone in dragon life. Even among rival dragons, a wyrm commands at least grudging respect. Male dragons at this stage are reaching the end of their reproductive years, but their exalted status among dragons practically guarantees them mates. Younger females often establish territories adjacent to a male wyrm for mating, for protection, and to make it easy for the offspring to gain the wyrm as a mentor.

Great Wyrm (Age 1,201+ years)

When a dragon passes the twelve-century mark, its mental and physical development is finally at an end, and the dragon is at the peak of its physical, mental, and magical powers. Only one dragon in history, Bylrim, Lord Of The Red, has reached this point in the past.

Additional Information

Geographic Origin and Distribution

While their distribution is not uniform, and specific species or elemental affinities may favor certain environments, Dragons have the ability to adapt and thrive in various geographic locations. Here are some common areas where Dragons are known to reside:

Mountain Ranges: Dragons are often associated with towering mountain ranges, where they find suitable nesting sites and expansive territories. The craggy peaks, deep caves, and vast valleys provide ideal habitats for these majestic creatures. Dragons can be found perched on mountaintops or soaring through the skies, surveying their domains.

Volcanic Regions: Dragons with a strong affinity for fire or volcanic elements are drawn to volcanic regions. These areas offer a constant source of heat and energy, making them well-suited for Dragons that harness fire-based powers. Volcanic landscapes provide both concealment and a source of nourishment, with geothermal energy and volcanic minerals attracting Dragons to these fiery realms.

Forests and Jungles: Some Dragons prefer the dense canopies of ancient forests or the lush foliage of tropical jungles. These environments offer ample prey, concealment, and a sense of harmony with nature. Dragons may carve out territories amidst the towering trees, using their agility and camouflage to navigate the dense foliage.

Coastal Areas: Coastal regions, with their expansive shores and open seas, attract Dragons that possess an affinity for water or storm-based elements. They may make their homes in sea caves or coastal cliffs, overlooking the crashing waves. Coastal environments offer a mix of aquatic and terrestrial prey, and the proximity to water allows these Dragons to display their mastery over the seas.

Elemental Convergences: Dragons, being closely tied to elemental forces, are often found in regions where elemental energies converge. These areas may include ancient ley lines, mystical nexuses, or places of powerful magical resonance. Dragons may be drawn to these locations to tap into and safeguard these potent magical energies.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Dragons possess heightened senses that surpass those of most mortal creatures. Their vision is remarkably sharp, allowing them to see with clarity in both daylight and darkness. Their eyes can discern minute details, and some Dragons possess the ability to see magical auras and perceive invisible entities. In addition to their exceptional sight, Dragons have acute hearing, capable of detecting faint sounds and even the beating of distant wings. They possess a keen sense of smell, able to detect scents from far distances and discern subtle changes in their environment.

Lifespan

500-1000 Years

Average Height

15 ft-20 ft

Average Weight

2 tons- 5 tons

Average Length

25 ft-50 ft

Average Physique

The average physique of Dragons in the high-magic world of Cevantia is an awe-inspiring sight to behold. They possess a majestic presence, with long and sinuous bodies that exude strength and grace. Their broad shoulders and powerful musculature convey their immense power, while their wings, spanning a great width, enable them to take flight with remarkable agility. Dragons' heads are adorned with elongated snouts, sharp teeth, and large, expressive eyes that reveal their wisdom and power.

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

Dependent on the type of dragon