Metallic dragons originated from lo, the god of dragonkind, who created them to be noble, wise, and helpful towards humans. They have powerful physical abilities due to their armored scales, claws, fangs, breath weapons, and intelligence. They go through different life stages from wyrmling to ancient, and have a complex social structure and religion. The chapter then describes each of the 12 types of metallic dragons and their traits.

1. -------_._- -------------- ----------------- ------------ -----_._--------- ---­
- - ----- ---------------- ----

2. DRACONOMICON™
Metallic Dragons
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4. I: DRAGON LORE .. ......... . . ... 4
Artifacts ... .. .. .. .. .. . . .. ........ 78
Bronze Dragon Wyrmling...... 176
Origins . . .. ........ ........... .... 6
Blood of 10..... ....... .. ... . .. . 78
Cobalt Dragon Wyrmling ...... 176
Physi o logy . . ...... ........... . . .. 10
Seal of the Lawbringer..... . .. .. 80
Copper Dragon Wyrmling .. . .. 177
Life Cycle . . .. . . ... .. ..... .... . ... 12
Gold Drago n Wyrmling... ... .. 178
Outloo k and Psychology ..... . .... 16
3: DRAGON LAIRS .............. 82
Iron Drago n Wyrmling ........ 179
Society .. . . , .. .... . . .......... . .. 20
Des igning a Dragon Lair ... .... ... 84
Mercury Drago n Wyrmling .... 180
Religion . .. ...... ..... .. .... .... . 24
Purpose ... ........... . .. ... ... 84
Mithral Drago n Wyrmling ..... 180
Metalli c Drago ns in Detail .... . . .. 26
Attendants . .. .. ........ . . . .. .. 85
Orium Dragon Wyrmling .... . . 182
Adamantine Dragons ... .. ...... 26
Unusual Lairs . .. .............. . 85
Silve r Drago n Wyrmling . . ..... 182
Brass Dragons ................. 27
Goblin Folly ... . .................. 86
Stee l Dragon Wyrmling. . ... . .. 183
Bronze Dragon .. . .... . ...... .. 28
Esca ping Goblins .. .. ....... . . . . 88
Cobalt Dra go n ...... . . ... . . .. .. 30
Uneasy Sentries. . ....... . ... .. . 89
HOLLOW DRAGONS .... ... . . 184
Coppe r Dragons .. .. .. ......... 31
Standoff.............. .. . . ..... 90
Th e Terror of Prospect Hill .... .... 92
OTHER CREATURES . ..... .. 186
Gold Dragons .. . ... .. . ......... 32
Entering the Fort. . ... . _........ 94
Couatl. .... .................. .. . 186
Iron Dragons ...... .. .. .. . .. .. . 33
The Central Lair. .. .... ..... . ... 96
Couatl Rogue Se rpe nt ...... ... 186
Mercury Dragon .. ... . .. .. . .... 34
Tulka u Shayn .................... 98
Couatl Re deem e r ...... . .... . . 186
Mithra l Dragons ... . . . . ... ..... 35
Approaching the Cave .. . . ..... 100
Draconian .... . .. ... ... ..... ... . 188
Orium Dragons .. .. .. . ......... 36
Cave Entrance ... . ..... ... .... 102
Adamaaz Draconia n . .. ........ 188
Silver Drago ns . .. ...... . . . ..... 38
Stirge Chamber . . ..... . ....... 104
Aurak Draco nian ... .. .... . . . .. 189
Steel Dragons . . . ...... . . .. .. . .. 39
Za na th a kla 's Wrath . . .. . . ... .. 106
Baaz Draconia n ............. .. 189
2: HM'S GUlDE TO DRAGONS .. . 40
Min es of Bolmarzh . .. ........... 108
Bozak Draconian ............ .. 190
Dragons in th e W o rld .. . ......... 42
The High Hall. ..... .. ... ...... 112
Ferak Draconian ....... . ...... 191
Metalli c Dragon Patrons . . . .. .. . 42
Chasm Battle .. .... . . . .. ...... 114
Kapak Dracon ian ... .. ... . .... 191
Other Campaign Roles
Va nathia 's Lair ... . .... .. . .... . 116
Kobaaz Draconia n . .... .. ..... 192
for a Me tallic Dragon . ...... . . 44
Th e Breaking Tide .. . ..... _.. . .. . 118
Sivak Draconian .............. 192
Dragons in the Background ... .. 47
Fee ding Fre nzy .. . .. .... ... ... . 120
Drake ..... ..... . . . ........... . . 194
Draconic Encounte rs .... ...... . .. 48
On the Rocks ... .. . . ... .. ..... 122
liondrake .. .. .. ......... . . ... 194
Combat Encounters .... .... .... 48
Me thenaera th e Mead -Keeper.... 124
Vulture Dra ke . . .. .... . . . ..... 194
Subdual Encounters . . .. .. .. . ... 49
Upper Chambe r. .. .. ...... .. .. 126
Drakkensteed........ ... .. .. .... 196
Social Enco unters . ........ . .... SO
Lower Chambe r. . ..... .. .. ... . 128
Drakkensteed ... _.... ........ 196
Draconic Traps ... . ..... . .. .. . . . 56
The Edge of Chaos .... .. .. ...... 130
Grave-Born Drakke ns teed . .... 196
Adventures .. . .. . .. . .... ......... 62
Rage of Angels ....... . . . ...... 132
Cobalt Dragon-Bre d
Adventure Hook s a nd Quests ... 62
Radiant Array . .. . ... ... .. . . ... 134
Drakkensteed ...... ... ..... 196
The Secret Audition . ...... ... 62
Age nt of Prophecy . .. . . . .. . ... 136
Kobold .. .. .. ... .... ...... .. . .. . 198
Th e Gold e n Facade . ... . . . ... 62
Citadel of the Golden Architect .. 138
Dragonkin Kob old . . .. ... ..... 198
The In sid e -Out Lair . ...... . .. 63
Mute Sentine ls .. . ... .. ... ..... 142
Wyrmguard Kobo ld ........ .. . 199
Shell Game ........ .. . ....... 64
Night Haunt .......... . ... ... . 144
Three-Tooth . ... .......... .... 201
Unmask the Co nspirator .. . .. . 65
Gold Madness ................ 146
DRAGON HALL OF FAME .. . 202
The Good of the Many .. . .. . .. 65
The Earthen Dagge r. ............ 148
Andra e mos .. .. . ... .. ..... .... .. 202
Draconic Campaigns ............. 66
Fire at Will ... ..... . .......... 150
Bahamut .. . . . . .... .. . . .. _.. . ... 204
Awake n th e Sl ee pers . _......... 66
Poisoned Pit ............ . ..... 152
The Old Man
Prophecy of Doom . . .......... . 67
4: NEW MONSTERS ......... . . . 154
with th e Canaries . ...... . ... 204
A Little Knowledge ..... . ....... 68
Bahamut's Dragon Form ....... 207
An Age of Endless Storms....... 69
METALLIC DRAGONS . .. .. .. 156
Aspect of Bahamut. . .......... 208
Th e Broke n Throne . ......... .. 70
Brass Dragon .......... ... .. .. .. 156
Kuyutha , Exarch of Bahamut . .. 209
The Pontifex Wyrm .. . .. ... ... . 71
Bronze Dragon ..... . ..... . ...... 158
Jalanval oss . ... . ....... . . . .... .. . 210
Draconic Organi za tions........... 72
Cobalt Dragon .. .. .. ... . ........ 161
Niflung . ............... .. .. .. ... 212
The Blood of Barastiss . ......... 72
Mercury Dragon . .. .. . .... . ... . . 163
Silvara ... .............. ... ...... 214
The Guardians of the Gates ..... 73
Mithral Dragon ... . ... .. . . ..... . 166
Valamaradace .. . ..... ... .... . . . 216
Th e Grand Asse mblage
Orium Dragon . . . . ..... ... .. .... 169
of th e League of
ELITE DRAGONS ....... . . .. . 218
Ste el Dragon .. . ....... . ... .. .. . . 172
Eternal Discove ry ...... . ..... 75
Sample Elite Drago n .......... 218
Metallic Wyrmlings . .. ....... _.. 174
The Solemn Order of the
Adamantine Dragon
Knights of Sai nt Vercesien
ALTERNATIVE "POWERS . ... 219
Wyrmling ..... . .. .... ...... 174
the Gold .. .. ................ 76
Brass Dragon Wyrmling ....... 175

5. CHAPTER 1
if a man wishes to become a hero, then the serpent must
first become a draaon: otherwise he lacks his proper enemy.
- Friedrich Nietzsche
FEW CREATURES can match the power and
splendor of dragons. Armed with claws and fangs that
can rend steel, armored in scales as tough as iron, faster
than an eagle in flight, and strong enough to shatter
castle gates, a full·grown dragon is an awesome foe.
Dragons would be exceedingly dangerous creatures
even if they were dumb, ordinary beasts, because of
their size and power. But they are also gifted with cold.
calculating reason and furnaces of elemental energy
that provide them with terrible breath weapons.
In some places and times, dragons are scarcely
more than legend, creatures so rare and mysterious
that centuries pass without a sighting of one. In other
times. dragons rule over the world. darkening the
skies and destroying or subjugating lesser beings. The
current age falls somewhere between these extremes.
In the few centers of civilization. dragons are a rare
sight. The typical farmer or merchant might see a
dragon only once or twice in his life. But in the bor­
derlands or the great wide wildernesses surrounding
those domains . dragons are much more common.
This chapter explores the nature of metallic
dragons and their place in the world. It includes the
following topics.
+ Origins: How metallic dragons arose in the world,
and why they differ from their chromatic kin .
+ Physiology: A summary of the physical traits that
give dragons their unique strengths.
• Life Cycle: The stages of a d ragon's life. from con­
ception to death .
+ Outlook and Psychology: A look at the workings
of a typical dragon's mind, and bow a dragon's
power and self-absorption color its personality.
+ Society: A discussion of the interactions of the
highly social metallic dragons.
+ Religion: How these prideful creatures view
tbe deities, and which ones they consent to
worship.
+ Metallic Dragons in Detail: A brieflook at
each of the twelve kinds of metallic dragons.
HAPT E R 1 I Dra80n Lore

7. Dragons have soared through the skies of the world created by jealous godlings that lacked Io's secret of
and roamed the far reaches of the cosmos since the fUSing elemental energy with mortal form and soul.
earliest days of creation. They are the greatest of Scourge dragons detest this ages-old "slander," and
mortal creatures, although few in number compared deal harshly with any sage or scholar they find propa­
to the myriad hosts of humankind or the numberless gating the tale.
hordes of goblins or orcs. Although scores, perhaps
hundreds, of dragons are remembered in the myths
and the legendary histories of the mortal world, only
CHILDREN OF 10
Foremost among the gods in valor and physical
a handful of sages know the tale of the world 's first
power, 10 fought and defeated many primordials in
dragons.
the Dawn War. Similarly, his mighty children stood
at the forefront of aJl mortal beings in the fight to
FIRST DRAGONS preserve creation from the unchecked elemental
In the beginning of the world, the gods gave life forces of the angry primordials. But 10 finally met
to the naked substance of the world forged by the an enemy who was his match: the primordial Erek­
primordials. During the days of creation, the gods Hus, the King of Tenor. The King ofTenor slew 10,
forged countless mortal vessels, giving rise to all the and the primordials seemed on the verge of victory.
races , beasts, and plants that would populate the Then, from lo's shattered body, two new gods arose:
"vorld. But the deity 10 chose to bend his will toward Bahamut, the Platinum Dragon, and Tiamat, the
creating mortal vessels that would not only live in Chromatic Dragon.
the world of elements, but would give life and soul Bahamut and Tiamat together defeated the King
to the elements themselves. To contain the awesome of Terror, but then Tiamat turned against the noble
power of elements given life, 10 had to shape mortal Bahamut and attempted to seize dominion over all
vessels of tremendous strength and hardiness. And dragons. 10 was a deity who incorporated both honor
so he created the most powerful of all mortal crea­ and fury, ambition and resolve, a love of beauty and
tures: the dragons. a desire to possess it. Tiamat inherited many olIo's
Learned metallic dragons believe that each time darker traits, and she could not suffer the existence
10 created new dragons, he was in a different mood . of an equal or allow any other creature to reign over
The god's demeanor laid the seeds that determined dragonkind . Bahamut obtained more ofIo's noble
what those dragons would eventually become. When qualities and the greater part ofIo's strength. The
10 was filled with compassion and the desire to help Platinum Dragon defeated Tiamat, and she retreated
others, he created dragons that transformed into to the dark depths ofTytherion. She took little part in
metallies after his death. When 10 spawned dragons the rest of the war against the primordials. Bahamut
to sate his avaricious or destructive impulses, the went on to become a champion for the gods nearly as
god's dark emotions eventually warped those dragons noble and powerful as 10 had been.
into the first chromatic and catastrophic dragons.
In the ages following lo's death, these seeds altered THE WAR OF DRAGONS
dragonkind into its various kindreds.
The bitter strife between lo's heirs carried over to all
Naturally, catastrophic and chromatic dragons
of dragonkind . For a long age of the world , chromatic
do not hold with this version ofIo's story. Scourge
dragons battled furiously to throw down Bahamut
dragons like it even less-according to this legend,
and elevate Tiamat as the Queen of All Dragons.
scourge dragons are poor imitations of true dragons,
More than once, metallic dragons established wise
THE LEGEND OF PERFECT10N
Though most dragons believe the different types of dragons giving them bodies better suited to containing the elemen­
arose after lo's death. many metallic dragons claim oth­ tal energy without being changed by It But these dragons.
erwise. According to the tales they favor, 10 created each while true to the physical form that 10 intended, had souls
kindred in turn. growing In skill and understanding with that could not master the base passions of their own ele­
each effort. The catastrophic dragons were lo's first effort to mental nature. These too 10 set aside. Finally 10 forged the
shape mortal vessels that could Incorporate living elemental metallic dragons. now perfected in both body and soul to
power. They were slaves to their own elemental natures; the be masters of their nature, and not slaves to it. Naturally,
elements within warped and twisted the draconic vessel. the metallic dragons are lo's last and finest creation-or so
10 set them aside and shaped the chromatic dragons next, the old and proud among metallic dragons dalm.
C HAPTER 1 I Draoon Lore

8. and justly ruled kingdoms over the lesser mortals ono and the stories of his deeds, and discern in them
of the world only to watch their realms destroyed a great purpose for dragonkind. Metallic dragons
by furious hordes led by wrathful flights of chro ­ believe that 10 created dragons with their awesome
matic dragons. But in time, the battles of dragon strength, intelligence, and magical might in order to
against dragon grew sporadic, and then ebbed to a inspire and protect all the lesser mortals of the world.
rarely remembered collection of old challenges and They believe that dragonkind is charged with defend­
vendettas. Dragons had grown fewer in number, ing the world against primordial forces that would
and those that remained grew more strong-willed , destroy it. leading mortal civilization, and shaping
more suspicious, and more self-absorbed as the ages the world's affairs to someday create the world that 10
passed. 10 had made dragonkind too strong, too decreed long ago. Metallic dragons refer to this high
proud, to surrender its ,vill to any cause for long, or purpose as lo's Charge-a great philosophy of exis­
to acknowledge the dominion of others-even their tence shaped by ancient prophecies and revelations.
own kind. Not all metallic dragons know ono's Charge, and
Dragons have rarely united for any great cause. some that do know of it don't care. Iron, adaman­
Old rivalries and suspicions dating back to the earli­ tine, and cobalt dragons lead savage and reclusive
est days ofBahamut and Tiamat's war divide the existences and have little knowledge of the ancient
races of dragonkind irreparably. Although the fiercest history of their own kind. These dragons make their
feuds are between chromatic and metallic dragons, way in the world by their own wit, power, and judg­
plenty of suspicions exist between different varieties ment, seizing whatever territory or treasure they can
,vithin each famil y. Silver dragons hate red dragons, and holding it for as long as possible. Other metallics
but they also distrust the imperial ambitions of gold regard lo's Charge as a dream of childlike na'ivete,
dragons and dislike the avarice of copper dragons. long ago poisoned by Tiamat's greed and ambition
White dragons hate and fear the much stronger silver and lost forever in the sundering of dragonkind. The
dragons, which often push them out of their chosen cynical among metallic dragons ignore lo's Charge
territory, but they are just as wary around red drag­ outright, seeing no reason why they should exert
ons, which are likely to demand tribute or kill them . themselves on any other creature's behalf. But though
In fact, for many dragons, their worst enemies are some dragons have forgotten it and others have aban­
other dragons of their own color or kind. doned it, lo's Charge stil'l gUides the actions of many
of the world's most powerful metallic dragons. Gold,
lo's CHARGE silver, mithral, and orium dragons are especially
likely to honor lo's Charge and allow its ancient
Tiamat's drive for dominion over dragonkind is not
wisdom to inform their actions.
the only cause of strife between the various types of
Those dragons that accept lo's Charge differ
dragons. Metallic dragons see the world and their
greatly (and sometimes violently) on what exactly it
place in it differently from how their chromatic or
means and how it should be met. Gold dragons often
catastrophic cousins do. They remember the words
interpret lo's Charge as a mandate to rule over lesser
CHAPTER J I Dra80n Lore

9. creatures as a just monarch. Steel dragons tend to powerful red wynn might look at a rith dwarven
believe that lo's Charge is best served by safeguard· kingdom and plan to despoil it, but a gold wyrm
ing the freedom oflesser mortals to find their own might plot something potentially worse: ways in
path. Some dragons think that lo's Charge requires which it can seize control of that realm for centuries
them to crusade mercilessly against races, societies, to come and direct its growth and resources to the
or institutions they find objectionable. Others believe dragon's purposes. The red wyrm eventually leaves,
that 10's Charge is best answered through providing but the gold wyrm might never finish its work.
guidance and inspiring examples to the other races of With this example in mind, the three salient
the world. truths that one should keep in mind about the so·
The other families of dragon kind have different called "good" metallic dragons are these:
views ofIo's Charge. Catastrophic dragons regard the
whole idea as pure fancy (ifthey've heard ofit at all) 1. Not all metallic dragons are good.
and believe that 10 left no great philosophy to guide Some metallic dragons are, in fact, of evil or chaotic
dragonkind . Chromatic dragons and scourge drag· evil alignment. Silver and gold dragons are not often
ons, on the other hand, believe that the great purpose evil, but it's not uncommon to find truly evil repre·
of dragons is to do as they please with the world and sentatives of the baser metallic dragons, such as iron
its people. In their view, might makes right, and 10 or cobalt dragons. Some evil metallic dragons regard
made them the most powerful creatures in the world weaker creatures as miserable rabble to be enslaved,
so that they could subjugate, plunder, and destroy plundered, or toyed with on a whim. Other evil
to their hearts' content. When chromatic dragons metallic dragons harbor a twisted view ono's Charge
debate philosophy (a rare occasion, but it's been and shape human realms to fit their own dark
known to happen), they argue that metallic dragons desires, using whatever means are effective.
have fatally misinterpreted and embellished the pure
and simple purpose ofIo's Charge, which is nothing 2. Unaligned metallic dragons often pursue dan­
more or less than the divine mandate to dominate the gerous objectives.
world and revel in its riches . Dragons that aren't committed servants of evil might
prove just as dangerous as those that are. Many of
GOOD AND EVIL the more brutish dragons are highly territorial , quick
to anger, or eaSily lured into hostile actions by the
Given their drive to dominion , the age·old war
promise ofrich rewards. Others regard the power
against chromatic dragons, and the complexities of
and fortunes of their favored human tribes or realms
10's Charge, metallic dragons play many roles on the
to be a reflection of their own power. They build up
world stage. They are kings, counselors, and teach·
the strongest, most loyal kingdoms to govern, whether
ers that seek to bring out the best in others; prophets,
these realms are savage, oppressive, warlike, cor­
visionaries, and oracles that steer the course of events
rupt, or decadent. Wiser, more patient dragons might
to come; meddlers and manipulators, toying with the
easily become caught up in the game of toying with
fates of kingdoms; protectors and guardians, some·
kingdoms and history, often to the great detriment of
times benevolent and sometimes absolutely ruthless;
the people who attract their interest.
gluttons and misers; tyrants and destroyers; great
champions and wicked schemers. Just as humans
3. Even good dragons can be terrible enemies.
and members of other mortal races do, dragons walk
Powerful metallic dragons that serve good in the
many paths in life.
world can still pose threats to heroic characters. A
More so than most other types of dragons, metal·
good dragon might choose to destroy a band of heroes
lics discover and pursue great causes and high
to defend some site or artifact, to fulfill an ancient
purposes. Some are just as brutish and shortsighted
oath, or to prevent a great evil. Given their long
as the worst chromatics, of course, but most seek
lives and their overwhelming pride and confidence,
something more than comfortable lairs and plenti·
dragons think little of making the hard choices for
ful food. Ofcourse, the combination of powerful,
lesser creatures and sacrificing the few for the good
long·lived , highly rational beings and great purposes
of the ma ny. True compassion is rare indeed among
is not necessarily beneficial for the rest of the world.
dragonkind .
It's unusual for metallic dragons to embrace wan·
tonly evil causes, but many of the purposes they do
conceive can be callous, ruthless, destructive, or
tyrannical in the eyes of the lesser creatures caught
up in draconic dreams.
Metallic dragons are much more likely than other
dragons to incorporate humans and members of
other sentient races in their machinations. An old,
CHAPTER 1 I Dra80n Lore

10. As you might expect of the world's most majestic and
powerful creatures. dragons are featured in all manner
of heraldic devices and coats of arms. Though culture in
the world Isn't monolithic enough for widespread, unified
systems of heraldry, everyone is familiar with the traits
of dragons. Images of dragons can appear as charges
(appearing In one of the divisions of a shield) or support­
ers (figures that stand to either side of the shield and
appear to be holding It upright). Dragons are also used
as crests, small figurines that top helmets.
Each variety of dragon symbolizes different qualities or
virtues. Chromatic dragons in heraldry are viewed as mar­
tial, aggressive devices and usually belong to Individuals
or families who made themselves known through battle.
Metallic dragons are regarded as devices signifying domin­
Ion and status. and they often reflect titles bestowed for
loyalty and accomplishment. However. exceptions abound,
and the dragons featured carry no real connotation of the
owners' alignment or trustworthiness. A family whose coat
of arms features a red dragon is as IlkeJy to be honorable and
good as one whose coat of arms Includes a gold dragon.
The dragons most commonly used in heraldry, and
their heraldic qualities, are these:
Adamantine: Pride, Immovability. or stoicism. Heroes
who successfully defend some place against attack are
often associated With this device.
Black: Death. tragedy, or terror. A black dragon device
usually bears a negative connotation, but families that
endure curses or heroes renowned for fearlessness in the
face of the supernatural sometimes choose this device.
Blue: Ambition, superiority, knowledge, The blue
dragon device often suggests arcane magic, but might also
suggest arrogance. Families that include famous wizards
often choose this device.
Copper: Wealth, prosperity, or mercantile Interests,
possibly also luck or good fortune. Families that have roots
as merchants often choose copper dragons.
Gold: Divine right. nobility, or law. Gold dragon devices
are considered royal in many lands and are usually
reserved for the highest levels of the nobility.
Green: Cunning. revenge, beauty, or fey. Families sworn
to overturn some andent wrong might bear this device.
as might those who claim eladrln or elven kinship.
Iron: Determination. courage. orzeal. The Iron dragon
connotes single-minded ness and ardor for battle. but it
can also stand for mercilessness.
Red: Strength. power. or destruction. Families that took
their lands by conquest often feature a red dragon In their
heraldry.
Sliver: Honor. duty, or sacriflce. The silver dragon
is a favorite of families that Include famous knights or
paladins.
White: Rage. ferocity. or the hunt. The white dragon
device often connotes a willingness to feud or a refusal
to overlook slights.
CHAPTER 1 I Dranon Lore

11. Like their chromatic cousins, mctaHic dragons con­ and its metallic content solidifies as the enzymes dry
tain elemental magic bound inside their brawny out. This process leaves a dead, brittle scale interlaced
reptilian frames. All varieties of dragons wield breath with fine veins of pure inorganic metal. If properly
weapons directly related to the elemental energy that smelted, a large detached scale can yield traces of
courses through their hearts and blood. Elemental pure metal. However, it is extremely tedious and
energy also powers their magical abilities. time-consuming to separate the pure metal from
Metallic dragons advance through age categories the scales of a dead dragon, and in practice metallic
as chromatic dragons do, growing stronger in every dragon hides aren't worth any more than chromatic
way as they progress through millennia of life. dragon hides.
Metallic dragon scales harvested for armor already
THE DRAGON'S SCALES benefit from being harder than steel. but lose their
fleXibility and become rigid. The residual metal
While a chromatic dragon relies on tough, leathery
content is weaker than the natural hardness of a
scales to repel attacks, the scales of a metallic dragon
dragon scale. Therefore, metallic dragon scales (with
are partly composed of metal. Large, overlapping,
the exception of adamantine scales) do not greatly
platelike scales armor the dragon's back and head,
improve the protection value of armor made from
growing smaller and more flexible along its limbs.
dragon hide.
Softer, smoother scales lie side by side on the dragon's
Many sages have noticed that in addition to its reg­
belly. Each scale is infused with whichever metal is
ular diet, a metallic dragon occasionally ingests metal
natural to that dragon. For example, the scales of a
objects appropriate to its kind. For example, a steel
gold dragon are infused with a more durable form
dragon can devour a mundane sword (with some
of gold, and the scales of a bronze dragon are min­
care) and metabolize its substance. Although eating
eralized with an alloy of copper and tin. A metallic
metal is by no means reqUired for a metallic dragon,
dragon's scales are innately magical, as intrinsic to its
doing so increases the rate at which it regenerates lost
elemental nature as its heart or blood.
scales.
Although a metallic dragon's scales are largely
inorganic, the dragon's body produces powerful
enzymes that actively bond with and diffuse the INTERNAL ANATOMY
metal content throughout their blood. Not only do As with most aspects of their external anatomy, chro­
these enzymes keep scales flexible, they also nourish matic and metallic dragons share the same organs
the living parts of each scale and constantly thicken with virtually no exceptions. Much of what makes a
and replenish the nonliving parts throughout the dragon an elemental force to be reckoned with begins
dragon's Iik. When a scale is lost through injury or with its dense heart, the single most powerful muscle
natural molting, it gradually becomes less organic of a dragon's body. Both chromatic and metallic
C IIAPTER 1 I Dra80n Lore

12. dragons have the same vocal range, enormous lung
capacity, a fundamentum (a unique organ that con­
SHAPECHANGING
centrates elemental power in the blood), an upper METALLIC DRAGONS
stomach for gathering breath weapon blasts, and a Most metallic dragons cannot assume the shapes
gizzard for digestion. Moreover, both chromatic and of humanoids. Those that can have a considerable
metallic dragons boast a large brain mass with an advantage over their peers, especially in matters of
extra lobe for controlling their fri8htful presence ability stealth and subterfuge. Shapechanged dragons nor­
and their capacity for instinctive learning. mally assume the same appearance each time they
The parallels between chromatic and metallic change form. Other than that, no visual cues betray
dragons continue in the muscular and skeletal struc­ their true identities-they appear to be normal mem­
tures that shape their feline postures, from which bers of the creatures they imitate. However, some
only the deCidedly reptilian neck and tail deviate. A shapechanging dragons naturally include cosmetic
dragon's heart pumps elemental energy throughout characteristics that are borrowed from their metallic
its body, making actions possible that would oth­ dragon bodies, such as eye or hair color that matches
erwise be impossible. The energy lets it instill fear, their scales. Age and gender of humanoid forms do
stave off exhaustion, and fly on membranous wings. not have to match those of dragons' natural forms. A
Flushed with elemental blood pumped from the male elder steel dragon, for example, could appear
heart, a metallic dragon can stave off fatigue while as a sprightly young female elf. Moreover, despite the
remaining airborne for hours or days at a stretch. radical difference in size between metallic dragons
Dragon bones are hollow like those of birds, but and humanoids, a disguised dragon's weight accu­
immensely strong. The pectoral muscles of a dragon rately reflects the dimensions ofits current form .
are among the strongest muscle groups in the body, A dragon disguised as a bent and crooked old male
and the tendons and ligaments are exceptionally human would weigh perhaps 150 pounds, not the
tough and supple. thousands of pounds of its true draconic form .
The elemental heart of a metallic dragon regulates Though a disguised dragon looks the same as a
body temperature regardless of external altitude, humanoid at a glance, telltale physical quirks can
environment, or weather. Its heart can also slow give them away. Although metallic dragons lose
down enough to permit hibernation, sometimes for their bite, claw, tail, wings, and breath weapon in
hundreds ofyears. The elemental energy that flows humanoid form , they retain their hit points, defense
through the body of a metallic dragon allows it to scores, resistances, and ability scores, leading savvy
digest, process, and even subsume Virtually anything opponents to surmise that their target is a lot more
it eats. resilient than appearances indicate.
Looking for the origin of moral impulses. some When a dragon changes shape into humanoid
sages have devoted considerable study to the vari­ form , the brain and heart make the polymorphic
ances in brain composition between chromatic and transition and function exactly the same way, pump­
metallic dragons. Specifically, they have searched ing a font of magic-infused blood throughout the
for any part of the brain that controls the inclina­ humanoid form. Sages have surmised that although a
tion for good or evil tendencies. The truth, however humanoid form lacks the mass of a metaUic dragon,
disappointing, is that no such moral center exists. its elemental heart maintains the density of one.
Dragons are good-natured or evil-minded based on Finally, in addition to the brain, the extra lobe for
the whims of personality, fate, and experience, much controlling the fri8htfu I presence ability also crosses
like humans and members of other mortal races, between forms, giving metallic dragons access to this
although some varieties of dragon are inclined to be one magical power in either body.
more violent , domineering, and irascible than others. Though some varieties always develop the ability,
every metallic lineage has a chance to produce shape­
shifters. (See "Alternative Powcrs," page 219).
URACON1C ANATOMY
Droconomicon: Chromotic DroJjons features a more exten­
sive discussion of draconic musculature, skeletal structure,
organs, and more. Metallic dragons are much like chro­
matic dragons In most o.f these particulars; refer to. that
supplement for more Info.rmatio.n.
CHAPTER I I Dra80n Lore

13. To truly understand dragons, one must imagine life­
MATING
times that play out across thousands ofyears. Empires
come into power, thrive, and fade into antiquity Similar to chromatic dragons, metallic dragons
while ancient metallic dragons indulge the dream of become capable of mating halfway through their
blissfully long sleep. In many respects, dragons are young stage oflife, peak as adults, and diminish as
creatures for which the passage of time holds little elders and ancients. Not all dragons engage in the
meaning. Although most are not immortal, the oldest same mating rituals, but some patterns are common
of their kind living today have witnessed the rise and to most metallic dragons. Young dragons have little
fall of ancient empires. impulse to seek a long-term partner, but sometimes
Dragons of any kind have the potential to live for indulge in brief dalliances. These brief relationships
several thousand years, but metallic dragons are the rarely produce eggs, but if they do, the eggs are often
longest-lived of the dragon families, and often live half fostered with older kin (or occaSionally nondragons).
again as long as chromatic dragons do (barring death Adult dragons slowly awaken to a strong parental
by violence, of course). Conjecture on the reason for drive after establishing themselves in suitable lairs.
this difference is rampant, but most sages believe that Both parents closely watch the eggs, with either one
the metallic content infusing the scales, blood, organs, becoming the caretaker while the other hunts for the
and flesh of metallic dragons concentrates the drag­ couple, ensuring that one parent maintains a Vigilant
ons' innate elemental power as they age, and helps guard over the clutch. Because familial bonds are
them to resist the onset of decrepitude. The baser stronger among metallic dragons than among chro­
varieties of metallic dragons, such as brass and steel matics, these relationships rarely end until well after
dragons, often reach ages of2,500 to 3,000 years. the wyrmlings hatch. Although either parent can raise
Nobler, more powerful metallic dragons (silver, gold, wyrmlings alone, some metallic dragons-particularly
and mithral) can live two to three times that span. orium, silver, and gold-stay together until their wyrm­
As with chromatics, metallic dragons experience lings become young dragons.
six stages oflife: wyrmling, young, adult, elder, ancient, Elder dragons, although still capable of reproduc­
and twilight. Although metallic dragons mature at the tion, rarely mate. They are more inclined to foster or
same rate as chromatics and reach adulthood at about mentor the offspring of their own children. Ancient
the same time, they age more slowly after that and dragons do not normally seek out mates, but dragons
do not grow to elder or ancient status as qUickly. (Of that have not found a mate or produced descendants
course, they remain ancient dragons long after chro­ earlier in life sometimes choose to mate and lay eggs
matic dragons slip into twilight.) long after the time when most dragons do so. This
CHAPTER 1 I DraBon Lore

14. is especially true for ancient dragons that hold wide wyrmlings of their own line, so grandparents, aunts,
dominions or great power over the world and want or uncles can step in at need. Even evil metallic drag­
to pass that power on to worthy heirs. Unlike with ons are inclined to regard wyrmlings of their family
chromatic dragons, the desire for parenthood never line as potentially valuable minions or allies, and
truly goes away and finds many forms of expression might go to the trouble of minding wyrmlings.
throughout metallic dragons' lives. ...J
Monogamy between metallic dragons is common, WYRMLING
but each individual of a mated pair almost always
Wyrmlings hatch from their eggs as predators that
maintains a separate lair, and the two spend most
have instinctive knowledge imprinted on their minds.
of their time apart. On rare occasions, mates form
They are not automatically born with the knowledge
especially strong bonds and choose to reside together,
of bygone generations, but they understood much of
sharing a lair for a few decades or even a century or
what their parents said to them while they were still
two. Bronze, gold, orium, and silver dragons are the
in the egg. Consequently, after years of incubation,
most likely to form these close bonds. However, once
most dragons hatch with an understanding of their
their wyrmlings have grown, most such pairs eventu­
familial connections and basic lessons about hoards.
ally separate-without young to hold them together,
hunting, lairs, and territory.
the dragons revert to their solitary ways.
Wyrmlings are not merely born into the mantle of
presumed superiority, but are hatched with a tailored
EGGS understanding of how their supreme presence fits into
Female dragons control whether or not mating pro­ the hierarchy of the world . They waste no time using
duces fertile eggs. If a female is not satisfied with the their limbs, can usually fly halfway through their first
circumstances-for example, the size or location of day, and are eager to hunt by day's end. Indeed , after
the lairs, or the selection of possible mates-she rarely hatching, there is little that gives metallic wyrmlings
produces eggs. pause; they are highly precocious creatures.
Chromatic and metallic dragons are somewhat Wyrmlings live with a parent or parents for sev­
similar when it comes to laying eggs, with the excep' eral years, but are already willfully independent.
tion that metallic dragons are more protective of their exploring outside the territory of their parents as
unhatched eggs. Female dragons lay eggs in small they grow bolder and larger. They seek out and form
clutches of one to five; the precise count depends on relationships with other dragons of their familial line,
the dragon's variety. Metallic dragons lay their eggs although some especially territorial metallics such
less frequently than chromatic dragons because their as adamantine and cobalt dragons have little toler­
eggs' incubation time is considerably longer. Female ance for wandering wyrmlings. It isn't uncommon
metallic dragons keep their eggs within their bodies for wyrmlings to approach humanoids as well, drawn
for 18 to 24 months. Eggs typically incubate for two by curiosity, a desire for companionship, or some
to five years before hatching. meddlesome impulse.
Egg shape and size are comparable to those of If a metallic dragon wyrmling does hatch on its
chromatic dragons, and egg color resembles that own without the protection of a parent, it can eaSily
of the parents' scales. Eggs are highly resistant to survive into adulthood on its own. relying heaVily on
damage from the breath weapons of the parents, but its inherited instincts and phYSical bearing. Even a
weaken as the wyrmlings grow ready to hatch. small wyrmling is roughly equal to a large mountain
lion in size and power. Its instincts, however, cause
HATCHING an orphaned metallic wyrmling to fixate on a paren­
tal figure should one be offered. Even if raised by
Metallic dragon wyrmlings slowly leech nutrition from
dragons of a different kind or by lesser creatures, the
the mineral content of the inner shell wall while hiber­
wyrmling's powerful instincts keep it true to its kind ,
nating during most of their incubation period . Metallic
regardless of how contrary teachings might otherwise
dragons are known to carryon conversations with their
lead it astray.
eggs. The metal shells weaken during this time, until
the -vyrmlings rouse from their sleep ready to hatch.
An awakened wyrmling quickly grows impatient, claw­ YOUNG
ing, pushing against, and blasting what remains of the Although young chromatic dragons leave home and
inner shell with an early version of its breath weapon. must immediately fight for survival against a world
Hatching usually takes less than an hour. hostile to their presence, a young metallic dragon
Metallic dragon wyrmlings that hatch into the can take measured steps away from its parent and be
world as orphans are exceedingly rare . Such an event more discriminating about how it leaves home. When
happens only when both parents have been killed a metallic wyrmling grows into a young dragon,
but their eggs remained well hidden . Moreover, it becomes eager to find its own lair. Its mind has
most metallic dragons are willing to foster orphaned been intractably gripped by a primal desire to make
CHAPTER 1 I Dranon Lore

15. a home for itself and gather a hoard on which to even greater fame and renown by creating worthy
sleep. It is now a powerful predator the size of a large heirs. As a metallic dragon enters the springtime of
horse, with deadly fangs and claws, and wings that its life, a female studies potential suitors, and a male
can carry it for hours at a time. Once a young dragon competes for and even fights over the right to mate
departs from its parents' lair, it cannot return without with a desirable female.
an invitation, which is almost never offered. In years when mates are not available, the dragon
Fortunately for the wyrmling, its years as an devotes its energy to relentlessly expanding its terri­
independent-minded creature were not idly spent. A tory, adding to its hoard, and establishing itself as the
young metallic dragon usually leaves its parental lair master of all it surveys. Adulthood is the time 'w hen
knowing exactly where it wants to establish its own a metallic dragon conceives its grand purposes and
territory, having already done the necessary reconnais­ plans and begins to put them into motion. A member
sance as a wyrmling. Moreover, this lair will not be of one of the less intelligent or determined varieties­
a temporary or transitional residence. The wyrmling for example, an iron dragon-might not contemplate
studies the lands that interest it carefully to ensure that any great purpose until much later in life, but a silver
it can fulfill its needs for a draconic lifetime. Naturally, or gold dragon begins fulfilling its own interpretation
the young dragon strives to find territory that is rich, ofIo's Charge in the flower of adulthood.
full ofgame, and unclaimed by other dragons-or at
least larger and more powerful ones. ELDER
Maturing into an elder dragon after several centuries
ADULT of adulthood, a metallic dragon sits atop a veritable
By the time a young metallic dragon comes into its mountain of treasure, large enough to humble the
own as an adult , it has established a lair that will wealth of a small barony. Regardless of this fact, the
serve it for the rest of its life. It is well on its way to dragon's desire for more wealth remains insatiable.
gathering a significant hoard. If a metallic dragon Any humanoid relationships established as an adult
plans to involve itselfin humanoid affairs, either in have long since come to fruition . An elder dragon
its natural form or in a shapechanged guise, it sets the holds a position of influence or leadership, as directly
groundwork for those relationships during this time . or indirectly involved in great affairs and endeavors
Although a metallic dragon becomes fertile as it cares to be.
approximately halfway through its "young" stage, a As an elder, a metallic dragon can look back over
metallic dragon reaches its reproductive prime as an multiple generations of progeny and feel pride and
adult. After achieving the grandeur, independence, satisfaction in the families it has spawned. The drive
and predatory status of dragonhood it has so desper­ to reproduce and the desperate need to establish ter­
ately craved since the earliest days ofits life, an adult ritory have ebbed, which means an elder dragon is
dragon begins to feel the drive to procreate. For one supremely self-confident. It is more patient and toler­
dragon this compulsion might be nothing more the ant than a younger dragon . Even a violent and evil
urging of instinct, for another it could be a calm and elder dragon is inclined to toy with weak enemies, or
calculated assessment of its biological needs , and for to solve problems by using subtle manipulation rather
yet another it might manifest as a desire to achieve than sudden onslaughts.
CHA P TER 1 I Dra80n Lore

16. Likewise, some elder wyrms find satisfaction in only the foolhardy would consider dragons in this
passing on their wisdom and life lessons to younger chapter of the life cycle to be vulnerable. A metallic
creatures-precocious wyrmlings and young dragons dragon in this stage knows it is slowly dying, and is
of their own familial lines, or sometimes humanoids prepared for this eventuality. It has created a legacy
of exceptional worth and charisma. Elder wyrms that spawned legends and listened as these stories
see the value in laying the foundations of legacies proliferated, were forgotten, and reemerged as myth.
that will endure through the centuries, whether Not the least part of this legacy is the dragon's
those legacies are in the form of destroyed enemies, hoard. Every metallic dragon handles this matter
mighty realms, or proteges that might go on to differently, but regardless of a dragon's kind, the
accomplish great deeds. They are sometimes will­ distribution of its hoard will never be left to chance.
ing to take under their wings younger descendants Some metallic dragons bequeath their hoards to
and orphaned dragons (provided they arrive with descendants. Some leave entire inheritances to prom­
appropriate gifts) that are eager for their valuable and ising heirs or favored charges. Still others place their
wizened insights about the world. A wyrmling raised hoards into the hands of organizations they fostered,
by an elder dragon greatly benefits from the elder's ensuring that their influence will persist in perpetu­
experience and can become a formidable presence in ity. In any event, these preparations will have been set
the world. into motion long before a twilight dragon succumbs
to the ravages of old age. In one instance, a mercury
ANCIENT dragon created an elaborate web of clues, puzzles,
and traps rumored to span continents, oceans, and
Metallic dragons that attain this robust age are at the
planes of existence, parceling out its treasure one
height of their power. They can defeat entire armies
piece at a time. It took centuries to arrange, and only
or lay waste to whole kingdoms. They are not merely
after its completion did the mercury dragon finally
forces to be reckoned with, they are the standard by
allow itself to die.
which cataclysms are measured. In the end, dealing
with a metallic dragon of this stature becomes less
about slaying the creature and more about appeasing DEATH
its whims. Cities have been abandoned to accom­ Despite life spans that border on immortality, almost
modate their demands, religions have paid homage all dragons succumb to old age. (The exception is
to their self-proclaimed divinity, and barbaric tribes mithral dragons, which age but do not die; see page
have launched great raids to garner plunder fit to 166.) A metallic dragon, however, can choose the time
offer ancient draconic patrons. and place of its demise. Vhereas chromatic dragons
It's not surprising that lesser creatures chafe under often go out fighting, metallic dragons play out their
the influence of ancient dragons. Rare is the accord final days exactly as planned: ceremonially, privately,
that strikes a comfortable balance with these oldest publicly, religiously, or even by seeking out gods they
ofwyrms. Even the best-intentioned ancient dragon worship. Few metallic dragons are interested in lying
monarch or guardian is inflexible and unapproach­ down to die without first arranging their personal
able by human standards. This is not to say that matters. Some metallic wyrms are similar to chro­
ancient metallics are incapable offriendship, but that matic dragons in their desire for glory, and those seek
they have reached a point in their lives when only the out a great rival for one last magnificent battle.
most heroic and worthy of lesser mortals are worth When a metaIlic dragon finally dies and its body
their attention. is permitted to decompose naturally, its metal content
An ancient dragon has mastered every endeavor breaks down and seeps into the ground, permeating
that caught its interest over the centuries, from simple the earth with veins of metal. Like chromatic drag­
games to planar rituals. It no longer has patience for ons, metallic dragons are prone to environmental
trivial details or petty machinations. Most ancient diffusion after death. The nature of the environmen­
metallics want to build a legacy of gold, magic, and tal change depends on the elemental energy of the
accomplishment that will last forever, sustained by dragon. For example, a gold dragon might diffuse into
their fearsome reputations. Others think nothing of a fiery geyser or a scorching plain of stone.
indulging any appetite or whim that comes to them,
utterly heedless of the effects on lesser creatures
nearby. Humans and other folk are too frail and DRAGONS IN TW1L1GHT
ephemeral to merit concern. Dragons in twilight fall to one to three leve.ls lower than
ancie.nt dragons (see "Increasing or Decreasing level,"
TWILIGHT page 174 of the Dun8eon Masters Guide), You can also
decrease their ability to recharge powers, or give a pen"
Metallic dragons entering their twilight years dimin­
alty to initiative and Perception checks to represent the
ish in power for the first time in their lives. Although
encroachment of age.
twilight dragons are a little less effective in battle,
CHAPT ER I I Dra80n Lore

17. .-.-.-.-.~-. - . - - ..- . - . - . - . - . - - . - . - . _ . - . - . - . ­
OUTLOOK AND PSYCHOLOGY
Only a foolish or inept sage would ascribe humanoid death, but failure-is blatantly apparent. So powerful
traits to dragons. Moral precepts that people apply are is this urge that if a metallic dragon reckons it can
based on the incorrect assumption that these creaturs kill a nest of chromatic dragons at the expense of its
have consciences. Most behave as they will, whether own life, its instinctive mind deems that outcome
compassionately or pitilessly, not owing to alignment, acceptable. The compulSion to battle regularly causes
but rather because their actions serve a larger pur­ metallic dragons to take on more than they can typi­
pose tied in with their goals. It would be fair to say cally handle. Though dragons ofall ages feel this urge,
that alignments have been imposed on dragons by it's more powerful among young and adult metallics.
humanoids to quantify the dragons' behavior and put Although chromatic dragons feel the same way toward
themselves at ease. metallic dragons, they already fight to survive in a
world that vilifies their presence. For that reason alone.
DRACONIC DOMINION chromatic dragons pick their battles more carefully
than metallic dragons do.
Metallic dragons. unlike their chromatic or cata­
strophic kindred, rarely prey on humankind or
rampage through human realms. They are not driven THE FAMILY LINE
by the instinct to plunder or destroy. Instead, metal­ Although the bonds of family are stronger among
lic dragons embody the draconic desire to dominate metallic dragons than among chromatic dragons, the
lesser creatures. A red wyrm might look on a human bond between two metallic dragons that mate is lim­
kingdom as a rich source of plunder and prey, but ited to a finite time spent together for the wyrmlings'
a gold wyrm sees that kingdom as something to sake. After their offspring have departed from the
be ordered to its own satisfaction. If it is especially lair, mated dragons are strongly drawn apart, back to
benevolent, that gold dragon sees itself as a wise solitude. If it wasn't for its powerful desire to extend
counselor, a loyal defender, and a stalwart ally of its family line, a dragon would happily keep its own
the realm. A different gold dragon might choose to company. Even those dragons that have assumed
reign openly over the realm, and another could be an humanoid forms for extended periods of time observe
inflexible tyrant and oppressor ofthe worst sort. with bewilderment how humanoid couples and fami­
Even those metallic dragons that do not seek lies can spend their entire lives with each other.
dominion over lesser races are often bound to them Although all dragons breed to ensure survival of
in other ways. Some are champions of good or evil, their kind, the urge is particularly strong in metallic
some are obsessed with old magic or ancient causes, dragons. Sages attribute the reason to their longer
and some are subtle manipulators engaged in a great gestation time and the innate awareness of how
game spanning the centuries. More than any other often their numbers are reduced by conflict against
dragons, metallic dragons are interested and involved chromatic dragons. Metallic dragons also keep com­
in the affairs of humanity. munication open among extended families. The more
that a metallic dragon stays in contact with other
metallics, though they are still separated by their
DRIVES respective territories, the easier it becomes to aid
Most metallic dragons, with the exception of those one's kin when the drive to fight chromatic dragons
that can change shape, share little in common with comes over them.
humanoids when it comes to their base desires and
needs. In the end, chromatic and metallic dragons
THE HOARD
share similar motivations, especially when they per­
Dragons of any kind deem their hoards-cascading
tain to hunting. If prey runs, a dragon feels drawn to
piles of glittering coins, gems, and magic items-the
pursue and run the creature down-but not without
marrow of existence. The hoard is why they hunt; it
caution if pursuing an intelligent creature. Having
is the bed on which they sleep; it is the source of their
the mobility and stamina to travel great distances
self-worth. Dragons never grow bored with the acqui­
means a metallic dragon can chase a fleeing oppo­
sition of untold riches, even after thousands ofyears.
nent indefinitely. It stops only when its food has been
This desire is, without a doubt, the Single most impor­
caught and eaten, because there is no excuse for
tant motivation in their lives. Even dragons that resist
returning home with an empty belly.
the natural inclination to possessively hoard wealth
Metallic dragons, however rational when calm, have
can still feel the instinct scratching in the backs of
a primal imperative to attack and kill chromatic drag­
their minds, as if they are somehow missing out on
ons on Sight, sparing little thought for their own safety
treasure to which they are rightfully entitled.
and pausing only when the likelihood offailure-not
C HAPTER 1 I DraBon Lore

18. Despite the constant lure ofhoard-buiJding, know any potential prey is an automatic reaction that
metallic dragons can still enjoy meaningful lives not can't be controlled.
consumed or overshadowed by the lust for wealth. For this reason, disguiSing martial prowess is an
Denying their nature, especially to themselves, effective way for some other creature to maintain the
would be futile . Better to remain introspectively rapt attention of a dragon, which might otherwise
aware of their weakness, to avoid letting it become an categorize that creature as an inSignificant threat
instrument of manipulation. As wyrmlings, dragons or, worse yet, a possible meal. Not knOWing where
develop a psychological connection to treasure from it stands against a new creature can infuriate or
which they never completely break free. More than intrigue a metallic dragon. The dragon might invite
leaving their parents, leaving the lair in which they an adventurer to a playa game of strategy, or make
were raised also means leaving the hoard around a sudden move to startle him or her into a revealing
which they have played, not one coin of which travels combat posture.
with them abroad. When a wyrmling comes of age, it The benefits and downsides of someone conceal­
transitions from the considerable hoard of its parents ing his or her true strength from a dragon are mostly
to no hoard at all. This fact goes a long way toward situational. The dragon, driven by curiosity, will want
explaining why young metallic dragons desperately to learn more about a mysterious adventurer, but then
start amassing wealth the moment they leave home. that person is the center of draconic attention, desired
or not. A metallic dragon might initiate combat
THE STATUS IMPERATIVE strictly for sparring purposes (but often without
Any time a dragon interacts with a new creature saying as much beforehand).
socially, it immediately assesses how much of a strug­ If adventurers intend to misrepresent themselves
gle the new creature would put up in a fight. Dragons to a dragon, consider a skill challenge deSigned to fool
cannot suppress this instinct, even while conversing the creature. Convincing a dragon to underestimate
peacefully, because their predatory appetite creeps a potential foe might grant a bonus to attack rolls or
into the subtext of every spoken word. Try as they initiative rolls. If a dragon is led to overestimate its
might to hide their hunting instinct, it translates foe, an adventurer might gain a bonus to Diplomacy
through their unconscious body language. They size or Intimidate checks. However, failing at such a ruse
up creatures the way a humanoid might examine a likely incenses the dragon, which brings an entirely
piece of fruit in a marketplace. different set of perils.
For a dragon, establishing where it stands with
a creature in combat allows it to adjust its posture BEHAVIOR
accordingly. It lets the dragon know whether to Metallic dragons exhibit a broad range of disposi­
behave arrogantly superior or-in the presence of tions, ranging from violent territOriality to predatory
more powerful opponents-to resort to bluster and inquisitiveness to simple bemusement at humanoid
subterfuge. Although one metallic dragon might keep antics. Most metallic dragons take great pride in their
this drive more in check than another, getting to powers of observation and logical faculties. They see
CHAPTER 1 I Dra80n Lore

19. themselves as dispassionate and rational- though humanoids' power is real or imagined, they can
some are just as short-tempered and easily provoked achieve more when they are not devoured or robbed
as the most antagonistic of red dragons. at random. Truly good dragons might still manipulate
and sacrifice lesser creatures, but at least they do
HABITUAL CONDESCENSION so based on the firm conviction that their guidance
All dragons have an exceedingly high opinion of makes the world a better place.
themselves. When they deign to engage in conver­ The only time metallic dragons make any effort
sation with weaker creatures, dragons think they to suppress their natural arrogance toward lesser
are demonstrating exceptional tolerance, and they creatures is when they assume humanoid form to
expect that those they meet will be nattered by their infiltrate their societies. To describe these occasions
attentions. Humanoids that find themselves in con­ as trying for the dragon would be an understatement.
versation with dragons would do well to show great A metallic dragoJl must constantly bite its tongue to
appreCiation for the honor; metallic dragons want blend in among the rabble. It takes practice, some­
their praises not only sung, but heralded loudly. Their times perfected over centuries, before a metallic
need for affirmation does not stem from insecurity, dragon can make this transition seamlessly.
but rather from a sense of entitlement. Metallic drag­
ons that refrain from subjugating or preying upon A DRAGON DOES
humans do so because they're making a deliberate AS A DRAGON WILL
choice that goes against their true instincts. As such, Dragons are oblivious to societal impositions. The
they believe that in excha nge for the gift of not being idea that a dragon would base a decision on anything
hunted and regularly eaten, humanoids should praise other than its personal desires is entirely foreign.
metallic dragons, and some dragons expect nothing Even the most compassionate and fair -minded silver
less than outright worship. dragons choose to live by such virtues, not because
Little separates the way chromatic and metallic other silver dragons or societies pressure them to do
dragons think. All dragons are supremely arrogant, so, but because those qualities facilitate the achieve­
incredibly self-centered, and strongly inclined to ment of their personal goals.
view lesser creatures strictly in the light of what pos­ Where chromatic and metallic dragons differ is
sible uses they offer. It does not occur to dragons that in how they interact with lesser creatures, and intel­
humanoids exist for any other purpose than to serve ligent humanoids in particular. Although metallic
the dragons' designs. The brief and trining time dragons will not be swayed by humanoids' moral
that humanoids spend breathing requires direction, arguments, they at least recognize that people inhibit
which they are gracious enough to provide. In the their own behavior with arbitrary laws and ethi­
case of chromatic dragons, this attitude means they cal rules (which goes a long way toward explaining
see humans and other humanoids as sources offood, why metallic dragons also regard them as lesser
treasure, or entertainment to be cruelly or callously creatures).
exploited at will. Most metallic dragons , on the other When a metallic dragon listens to what a human ­
hand, see humanoids as valuable resources, and oid has to say, the dragon considers such an act as a
carefully cultivate them over the centuries in order privilege philanthropically bestowed , with the expec­
to achieve goals they deem appropriate. The rarest tation that the dragon's time will not be wasted. A
and kindest metallic dragons feel obligated to help humanoid that uses this opportunity as an attempt to
humanoids build worthy realms and prosper. evoke a sense of duty in the dragon is doing nothing
Although it's not hard to imagine why dragons more than insulting the dragon, and might provoke
elevate themselves above virtually every other kind of a violent reaction. Unless a dragon favors a group
creature (going by their physical stature and elemen­ of humanoids or an individual in some way, it will
tal power alone), pinning down the metallic dragons' almost never be motivated to action by kindness.
inclination to nurture rather than neglect humanoids This is not say that metallic dragons never grant
is more difficult. The divine answer points to Baha­ aid or succor when requested, but that the supplicant
mut as the source, because the Platinum Dragon must understand the dragon's egotistical disposi ­
embodies all that was altruistic, charitable, logical, tion. The first step is for the requester to find a way
and patient in 10. The mundane answer, however, is to align his or her goals with the ambitions of the
that most metallic dragons are supremely rational metallic dragon. Beyond that point, he or she must
creatures that see cruelty and callousness as waste­ describe a way in which those goals can actively ben­
ful. They therefore regard their humanoid neighbors efit the dragon. The benefit to the dragon need not be
with cold, dispassionate logic, which dictates that immediate. Even ifit does not manifest until years or
resources such as humanoids are best used with decades after an accord has been reached, the benefit
care. Some dragons come to believe that empowered is as valued by the dragon as if it had occurred right
humanoids are productive humanoids. Whether away.

20. It helps to think of metallic dragons not as good­ its plans might face and preemptively eliminating
natured, but rather exceedingly patient creatures those hurdles before they can manifest. Mithral drag­
that will not reOexively eat humanoids when they're ons are perhaps the most methodical when it comes
hungry. Iran adventurer manages to annoy a metallic to advance planning, but all dragons want absolute
dragon, there is little socially, and virtually nothing control over their schemes before taking a Single step.
morally, that will stop the dragon from picking its They mean to win the battle before it begins, whether
teeth clean with the offender's bones. in business, negotiation, or warfare.
All that said, if a young or adult metallic dragon
ANYTHING WORTH DOING should encounter a chromatic dragon, it casts all
its forethought aside and likely finds itselfin a fight
Is WORTH CONTEMPLATING before assessing whether or not it can win the battle. ::i
A metallic dragon is no more inclined than any other o
dragon to rush into a new endeavor. As a creature
TEMPER
o
..J
whose life spans centuries, it relishes the ability to
thoroughly analyze a matter, dissecting the subject Metallic dragons choose to interact with humanoids I­ :J
with its impressive intelJect. It means to figure out all peaceably only as an effective means to achieve their o
the ways in which it can either command the situa­ desi res. Sting the pride of a metallic dragon , scorn its
tion, profit from the undertaking, or both. Assuming aid, or stretch its patience too thin, and it can unleash
that neither its life nor the lives of those it favors are a force every bit as destructive as any chromatic
hanging in the balance, a metalJic dragon will not be dragon .
hurried. It doesn't take much to upset a metallic dragon .
Maintaining intense focus, a metallic dragon can Perhaps too many intrusions have been made into its
remain immersed in thought as it goes about its daily territory without proper acknowledgment, or the trib­
routine. In this state, it is aware of threats but uncon­ ute for allowing humanoids to coexist in its domain
cerned with how its presence and size might impact has been consistently undercut. Nhatever the case,
any environment through which it is passing. It the latest insult is merely the final straw in a series of
doesn't acknowledge the immediate world around it , perceived offenses, throwing the metallic dragon into
since it's too busy calculating all the possible advan­ a rage. Even if the offense is reasonable by humanoid
tages and drawbacks of some venture. standards, the dragon's reaction might seem com­
When a metallic dragon does finally arrive at pletely out of proportion to the offense. For example.
a decision, it has not merely formulated a plan of when a wandering wyrmling is killed by a poacher,
attack, but also has several backup plans in case its metallic dragon parent might raze the closest vil­
the main stratagem is somehow undermined. It has lage for not policing its residents better.
devoted considerable time to predicting any obstacles
C HAPTER 1 I Dra80n Lore

21. Although individual metallic dragons might encoun­ the intrusion, but still boldly asserts its rightful claim.
ter each other accidentally, peaceably, or violently, A more territorial metallic dragon , on the other hand ,
dragon society is little more than a loose collection of treats such an infraction as an opportunity to teach a
familial relationships. Metallic dragons fulfill their younger wyrm a lesson-possibly a fatal one. Forgive­
own ambitions and serve their own purposes. They ness, when offered, comes because a metallic dragon
do not exist within societies so much as let societies considers aCCidentally blundering into another
take shape around them. Putting aside legendary dragon's territory to be a mortifying embarrassment.
occasions when metallic dragons of many kinds band Metallic dragons consider territory, once staked by a
together to oppose a common enemy, the closest they metallic dragon of equal strength, to be sacrosanct.
ever come to forming a rudimentary society is repre­ However, a covetous metallic dragon that desires the
sented by their loyalties to children and kin. These territory of a wyrm two or more age categories its
lasting connections have tenuously united even the junior considers such a domain ripe for the taking.
most territorial metallic dragons together. Metallic dragons of equal strength meet by invita­
The following four sections summarize how metal­ tion only (though older dragons often disregard this
lic dragons think and behave when they interact with formality when associating with younger wyrms). If a
other kinds of dragons or any kinds of humanoids. message requests an audience, such as when a young
dragon seeks tutelage from an older wyrm, a gift of
OTHER METALLIC DRAGONS treasure should accompany the request. The value of
this treasure forever defines the relationship between
""hen metallic dragons oppose one another, they
the two dragons .
remain tense and ready for battle. Whether the
Metallic dragons that encounter each other in the
confrontation is over territory, treasure, or a mate,
wild outside their respective territories normally
metallic dragons usually defer to (or flee from) more
acknowledge one another openly, but travel their
powerful wyrms, and demand submission from (or
separate ways. Although some metallic dragons have
attempt to slay) weaker rivals. Evil or ill·tempered
been observed giving each other this respectful dis­
dragons are quick to attack when they have the
tance, many evil or bad ·tempered metallic dragons
advantage. Two dragons that recognize each other
use these opportunities to eliminate younger dragons
as equals often settle on cool, wary ciVility, watching
that might eventually threaten their resources.
carefully for mistakes or signs of treachery. However,
Generally speaking, the purpose of doing so must
the moment blood is spilled between metallic drag­
be extremely important for a metallic dragon to leave
ons, they no longer have any use for words. In any
its territory and hoard. All metallic dragons accept
event, dragons won't compromise. A dragon that has
that they suffer from a powerful attachment to their
the advantage over its rival claims the entire prize,
hoards. When they meet, unless they're actively
whatever it might be. A dragon at a disadvantage
attempting to thin the competition for resources
retreats with nothing.
or territory, they clear a path for one another. They
Negotiations between metallics follow this pat­
silently acknowledge how vital a purpose must be to
tern: First, the two dragons instantly assess each
lure another dragon from its home. Although a metal­
other's age based on size, because seniority rules
lic dragon would never characterize its attachment as
supreme. Second, a contest of knowledge ensues, in
a weakness, separating it from its hoard for too long
which the dragons compare what they know about a
can nonetheless be a tool of manipulation.
sought-after prize. Superior knowledge improves the
standing of a dragon to its next older age category.
The metallic dragon that has the oldest "effective
age" is considered the rightful victor. Although many THE COUNC1L OF W'YRMS
dragons respect this outcome and acquiesce to the Obscure texts refer to an event known as ~the Council
superior wyrm, some dragons (usually brass, iron, of Wyrms." Much of the lore surrounding this event has
mercury, or cobalt) raise the stakes one step further been lost to history. What little. can be assembled tells
by challenging their rivals to trial by ritual combat, of the flrst metallic dragons coming together to form an
the result of which trumps all negotiations. Though accord shortly after Bahamut and Tiamat arose from lo's
these battles have been known to result in death, they death. These dragons Immediately recognized the chro­
usually end at first blood. matic spawn as their shared enemy and forged a lasting
pact. They vowed to put aside their differences and mon­
etary obsessions to wage war against chromatic dragons
TERRITORIAL DISPUTES
whenever the chromatics became a collective threat.
When a metallic dragon aCCidentally enters the estab·
lished territory of another, the average wyrm forgives
C HAPTER 1 I DraBon Lore

22. with the chromatic dragons betraying their own kind,
CHROMATIC DRAGONS and resulting in the death of even more chromatic
With few exceptions, a metallic dragon's rational dragons.
persona disappears when it spots a chromatic dragon.
It engages the dragon on sight, regardless of the con­
sequences to itself or others. If the chromatic dragon CATASTROPHIC AND
is too daunting for one metallic dragon to handle, SCOURGE DRAGONS
the metallic immediately seeks out allies and returns Metallic dragons no more acknowledge catastrophic
with greater numbers to assail the threat. or scourge dragons than they would violent storms
When battle is joined, metallic dragons fight or enduring pestilences. In the eyes of metallic drag­
savagely, eviscerating bellies, gouging eyes, and ons, these other dragons fill necessary roles in the
hamstringing legs. They slaughter chromatic dragon cyclical pattern of the world that metallic dragons
males, females, and wyrmlings without prejudice. witness countless times throughout their lives. Only
After the slaughter ends, a metallic dragon resumes when catastrophic and scourge dragons fail to respect
its normal personality as if nothing unusual had this objectivity do metallic dragons take umbrage
transpired, despite being covered in blood and gore. and offer resistance. A metallic doesn't care if a cata­
Once, when asked about its astonishing outburst strophic or a scourge dragon runs roughshod over the
of wrath, a silver dragon replied, "They cannot be world, as long as that dragon's interests aren't in its
allowed to reach critical numbers." Despite their path.
drive to kill, most metallic dragons do not crusade
against chromatic dragons. They merely deal with
such wyrms as they appear.
HUMANOIDS
Metallic dragons regard stories of cooperation MetalliC dragons see value in cultivating relationships
and even forbidden love between the two groups of with humanoids. This desire is so profound that after
dragons as tales of fiction. Denials aside, reliable millennia of observing humanoid activities. some
historical records document occasions when ancient metallic dragons (including almost all mercury and
and twilight metallic dragons cowed or manipulated steel dragons) have developed the innate magical
chromatic dragons into their service, culminating ability to assume humanoid shapes. Their motivation