Cliffbreakers

Cliffbreaker dragons are robust, medium-sized dragons renowned for their formidable strength and resilience. Bred for their unmatched ability to navigate and manipulate rocky terrain, these dragons are as much at home on the ground as they are in the air. They are often utilised for tasks requiring great physical power, such as transporting heavy loads or breaking down enemy fortifications.

Appearance

Cliffbreakers are visually distinct due to their stocky build and armoured appearance. Their scales resemble rugged stone, often ranging in hues of grey, slate, or muted earth tones, providing natural camouflage in rocky landscapes. Their muscular wings are broad and slightly jagged at the edges, enhancing their aerial stability and enabling short bursts of powerful flight.
Horns are present, with males boasting four angular, horn-like protrusions and females displaying two. These horns curve subtly backward, reminiscent of the jagged peaks they traverse.
Their tail ends in a heavy, club-like structure, perfect for delivering crushing blows.

Behaviour

Cliffbreakers are known for their calm and steadfast temperament. Despite their intimidating appearance, they are gentle and loyal, forming deep bonds with their riders. These dragons are highly territorial and will fiercely defend their home or bonded rider against intruders.
Cliffbreakers have an exceptional sense of navigation, able to memorise and traverse labyrinthine mountain paths with ease. They communicate using low, rumbling growls and body language, which can shake the ground like distant thunder.

Abilities

• Physical Strength: Their immense power allows them to carry heavy loads, shatter boulders, or topple enemy fortifications with their tail.

• Durability: Their dense, rock-like scales make them highly resistant to physical attacks.

• Ground Manipulation: Using their claws and tail, Cliffbreakers can create makeshift barriers or pathways by manipulating the terrain.

• Short-Distance Flight: While not built for long-distance travel, they excel in controlled, powerful flights over short distances.

Habitat and Role

Cliffbreakers primarily inhabit mountainous regions or areas with rugged terrain. They thrive in harsh environments where their natural abilities provide them with a distinct advantage. Historically, they were bred for wartime purposes, serving as siege weapons or carriers for heavy artillery. In modern times, they are often employed in mining operations or construction.

Bonding with Riders

Cliffbreakers prefer riders who exhibit patience, strength, and unwavering determination. They are known to test potential riders by observing their resilience and problem-solving skills. Once bonded, they are protective and loyal, often treating their rider as part of their family.

Lifespan and Reproduction

Cliffbreakers have an average lifespan of 2,500–3,000 years. Like all dragons, females lay eggs that are fertilised externally. Their eggs are oval-shaped, with a rocky texture that blends seamlessly with their natural environment. Hatchlings are independent within a year but require guidance to hone their immense physical capabilities.

Conservation

Cliffbreakers, like most medium-sized dragons, are believed to be extinct in the current age. Their utilisation in wars during the Draconic Age led to their overuse and eventual disappearance. However, scattered legends hint at their survival in hidden mountain valleys, fiercely guarding treasures or ancient ruins.

Scientific Name

Drakonys montykhola