The proudest and most arrogant of their kin, Fulgen dragons
believe themselves to be the natural rulers of the dragons.
These metallic-scaled dragons present a dichotomy of
ruthless dominance mixed with a noble, genteel civility they
believe befits their station. They devote a great deal of time
to debating topics like law, magic, and rhetoric, yet they
also spend an equal amount of effort honing their fighting
skills. Above all else, Fulgen dragons instinctively value
power in whatever form it takes, be it natural strengths,
deep knowledge, hard-learned skill, desirable resources, or
an upperhand in the intrigues of social conflict. Even other
dragons are wary of entering into battle with a Fulgen.
Characteristics
The metallic scales on a Fulgen’s powerful body come in a
vast range of colors, from gold to brass, crimson, or even
shades of green or blue. They have broad chests, short backs
and large powerful limbs. Their heads have the shape of an
axe or wedge, with prominent ridges of horn rising above
or somewhat swept back. Many Fulgen also have barbel
“whiskers” around their mouth or snout. Their tails are thick
and held outward, off the ground, when they stand or move,
as befits their refined demeanor.
Fulgen dragons boast the most diverse and complex
society on Drakha, including its only major metropolis, the
Golden City. There, the brood rules over a large number
of dragonkin and Valernians. However, thanks to the laws
instituted by their azhurma, Aureus, they moderate their
instincts and graciously suffer, or at times even tolerate, the
presence of lesser beings.
Believing menial work to be beneath them, the Fulgen
delegate most of these tasks to their followers, servants,
and other creatures, allowing themselves the freedom to
concentrate on what they consider more important matters.
Instructed in a wide variety of subjects from a young age,
Fulgen dragons have exceptional foresight and a great
depth of knowledge. The most renowned Fulgen dragons
occasionally take on students to teach them philosophy,
politics, and strategy. In the Golden City, the Fulgen
Academy’s majestic gardens are packed with students strolling
with their tutors, building on their mutual knowledge for the
future greatness of the brood.
Azhurma
Aureus, the Lord of Radiant Dragons, is the Fulgen azhurma and one of the oldest living beings in existence. He
remembers the rise and fall of Kadmos and watched as the
Primordial Dragon perished at the hands of the Dragonbonded. Aureus is a powerful combatant but it is his gift of
foresight—not a magical ability but one born of logic and
reasoning—which has earned him the most victories.
A skilled politician, Aureus has a nearly unparalleled
knack for elaborate manipulations and intricate strategies.
His plans are long reaching and difficult to discern, as he
seems to take all possibilities into account. Aureus evaluates
hundreds of possible outcomes for his projects before
unleashing his agents, backed by his incredible resources,
onto the playing board, learning from each player’s
moves. His primary goal is to keep the power of his brood
paramount, but only slightly less important is his almost
obsessive drive to improve things. The focus around which
most of his plans revolve is the Golden City, the most
populated and civilized place of Drakha. Aureus watches
over this mighty creation from his Golden Palace at the
heart of the city.
Fulgen Lairs
Most Fulgen dragons on the Red Moon live in and around
the Golden City. This city, formed of three concentric
circles, is a vast metropolis sized for gargantuan creatures.
The Fulgen live and train in the Middle and Central Rings
of the city, making use of such notable locations as the
Gilt Library, the Court of Trials, the Scriptorium, and the
Fulgen Academy. Within the city, the Fulgen have domiciles
more than lairs, though these multi-room buildings often
take on the attributes of traditional lairs, albeit in a more
constrained manner.
In Valerna, Fulgen dragons prefer to make their lairs in
or near urban areas, mostly so that the other creatures can
see to their needs. Fulgen will claim an abandoned palace
or fortress or make use of an underground ruin, though in
such cases they will demand other creatures upgrade the
facilities to meet the dragon’s specifications.
A Fulgen’s hoard is usually a reflection of the dragon’s
preferred method of power. The dragons who seek power
through knowledge will collect ancient tomes, scrolls, and
archeological relics, whereas those who prefer magical
objects or intrigue might hoard arcane artifacts or
secrets, respectively.
