Arcane Archives #001

Dragons of Arveir, their morphology and personalities

An article written by Daniel Ortiz

An Introduction

"Dragons: they are the pillars upon which the very foundation of our society rests. Majestic and powerful, these creatures govern from their palaces and high spires shaping the future of our nation and the lives of all who dwell within this kingdom."

In Arveir, dragons are categorized into two kinds: the slender and elegant Metallic dragons, and the imposing and powerful Mineral dragons. Each type boasts unique physical and magical traits and is further diversified into multiple distinct subspecies that will be discussed later on.

Both kinds tend to form 'filial houses' of profound political importance. These draconic houses adhere to a strict hierarchy dictated by the elemental affinities of their members, which in turn define their roles within the social structure and governance of their respective nations. This hierarchical system permeates every aspect of life in Arveir, influencing laws, its culture, conflicts, and alliances. The mastery that each dragon holds over their respective element not only secures their position as revered leaders but also as formidable combatants.

This article delves into the fascinating morphology and personality traits of these magnificent creatures, exploring how their individual characteristics influence not just their interactions within their own kind but also their importance in the broader world around them.

General overview

Dragons are the epitome of majesty among all living beings in the world of Corlyr, surpassing even other inheritor races such as the Jotunn and Daggar in that regard. They are known to live for millennia, with the oldest recorded great wyrms estimated to be around 5000 years old. Dragons hatch from eggs and typically reach physical maturity by approximately 25 years of age; however, their wisdom and magical prowess continue to develop over centuries.

Morphologically, all dragons boast a long neck that extends the length of their body, culminating in a powerful tail that aids in balance and mobility. They possess a pair of prehensile-clawed arms, two strong legs, and two large and leathery wings. This anatomical arrangement supports their formidable presence both in flight and on the ground. Beyond their impressive physical capabilities, dragons are also renowned for their exceptional mental faculties. Most specimens exhibit an intellect that far surpasses that of a regular humanoid from a young age, making them both wise counselors and daunting adversaries as they mature. Their inherent magical abilities are evident from birth, permeating their existence and manifesting in ways unique to each dragon.

While the continent of Arveir is home to other dragon-adjacent creatures such as amphipteres, drakes, lyndwurms, wyverns, and giant serpents which may share some physical similarities with dragons, they are not considered 'true dragons'. For instance, while wyverns and drakes share many morphological features with dragons such as their wings or their powerful four-legged bodies, they generally lack the intelligence of true dragons. And while amphipteres and lyndwurms may be capable of speech and exhibit humanoid levels of intelligence, they do not possess the magical capabilities of true dragons. In this manner, true dragons distinguish themselves through their superior intellect, their flight capability, and their profound magical aptitude, making them unparalleled among other powerful and mythical beasts.

An ancient rivalry unending

The deep-seated rivalry existing between Metallic and Mineral dragons is deeply rooted in an event known to scholars and historians as Vramorgha's Folly, which unfolded when Vramorgha, the Corlyrian icon of chaos and power, seeking to expand her dominion over the mortal realm through strife cleverly exploited the innate ambitions of the Mineral dragons members of the council of twelve. She bestowed upon them powerful artifacts and whispered promises of unrestricted power unto their ears, effectively turning them against their Metallic brethren. Seeing the upheaval caused by his sister, Yrthentas, the Corlyrian icon of justice and order rallied the remaining members of the council under his banner giving birth to the First Dragon War, a devastating conflict that reshaped the landscapes of Arveir and solidified the divisions between the Metallic and Mineral dragon houses.

These deep-seated animosities persist even to this day, casting long shadows over the minds of each individual dragon. Metallic dragons view their Mineral counterparts as inherently selfish and dangerously power-hungry, waiting to be consumed by their ever-growing lust. In contrast, Mineral dragons regard most Metallic dragons as inescapably frivolous, pretentious, and vain, lacking the ambition necessary to shape the world and lives of those around them.

 This rivalry not only highlights the ideological differences between both kinds of dragons, but also reflects the broader conflict within this fantastical world of Arveir itself. These contrasting views shape the continent's political landscape and permeate through their respective societies, influencing how each dragon views the world, governs its territories, and engages in diplomatic or military situations.

Metallic dragons: Guardians of order

In the nation of Velthara, Metallic dragons are not only revered for their formidable power but also for their role as guardians of order and balance. Known to excel in their logic, tactics, and administrative skills, these dragons often focus on the broader concerns of the realm rather than the needs of the individual citizen, which can sometimes make them appear aloof. Velthara itself, rebuilt from the ashes of war by these creatures, stands as a living testament to their meticulous and strategic minds.

Metallic dragons are organized into a hierarchy that reflects their power and responsibilities, they're classified by the color of their scales and distinct elemental breath. This, in turn, defines the role each may have within Velthara's power structure.

Gold Dragons sit at the top of the Metallic dragon hierarchy, their horns are smooth and lustrous, sweeping backward to form a semicircle that resembles a radiant halo, this visual resemblance serves to reinforce their appearance as wise and just leaders, overseeing their land from the lofty peaks they prefer to make their lairs on. They possess a powerful fiery breath, said to be so intense that it can melt rock into magma in mere seconds. Historically, these dragons were revered for their unparalleled wisdom and power, holding the highest positions of authority in old Velsterra. In modern Velthara, however, only one Gold Dragon is thought to remain alive: Mhrlevatira, queen of Velthara and all its metallic dragons.

Silver dragons are known for their keen intellectual prowess and eloquent sociability. They have sleek, streamlined horns that sweep back close to their jaws, these horns are smooth and elongated, tapering to fine points that reduce resistance in water, aiding them while swimming through the lakes and rivers they like to dwell on. They wield a devastating lightning breath and often serve their nation as counselors, stewards, regional governors, or commanders, facilitating both civil administration and military defense.

Copper dragons are the pragmatists among their kin, individuals of this dragon species are serious and goal-oriented and excel as accountants and administrators, valuing solitude in their bureaucratic roles over the social demands of governance. Copper dragons feature four thick and rugged horns that jut out of their skulls and then curve backward, these horns have a textured appearance that mimics the rocky outcrops of the cavernous habitats they prefer to dwell on, blending aesthetics with the practical need for camouflage in stony environments. They also boast a potent poisonous breath that disrupts the neurotransmitters in the victim's body.

Bronze dragons, in contrast, are task-oriented doers. They can spit a potent corrosive substance that can easily dissolve most known substances, except for ebryk crystals and ebryk-infused artifacts. Bronze dragons sport 6 wide, flat, and leaf-shaped horns that extend backward from the sides of their head before curving out again, these horns can catch and reflect light in a visual display designed to attract mates across long distances in their expansive territories. Bronze dragons have a profound impact on Velthara’s infrastructure since they serve as chief architects and engineers, driven to perfect rather than innovate, ensuring the structural integrity and impressive aesthetic of state construction projects.

Cobalt dragons are generally serene and stoic, able to produce an exhalation of super-cooled fluid capable of freezing anything it touches. They have several dark, needle-like horns that shoot straight towards the back of their thin heads. This configuration helps them blend well with the pine branches of woodland areas and icicle formations of the cold mountain ranges they tend to inhabit. Cobalt dragons often pursue philosophical and scholarly endeavors over active roles in Veltharan society. Their calm demeanor and deep insight make them ideal for roles that require contemplation and long-term planning.

Iron dragons stand at the bottom of the Metallic dragon power structure since they lack a proper breath weapon, however, unlike their kin, Iron dragons can still emit a concussive roar powerful enough to stun lesser creatures. they possess two dense and twisted horns that coil around themselves before curving back, these horns are thick and robust like those of a ram and help them traverse around or destroy obstacles in cramped spaces like caves, ravines, and city streets. Usually coarse, hardy, and strong-willed, Iron dragons perfectly embody the strength and resilience of dragonkind, often occupying positions of middle management, acting as military officers and law enforcers.

The strict and structured hierarchy of Metallic dragon society reflects their natural inclination towards maintaining order above all else and their commitment to upholding the status quo in their part of the continent. Each dragon contributes to Velthara’s governance not only by undertaking a specialized role but also by influencing its cultural ethos of creating a society that is efficient and orderly.

However, this rigid system and its multiple layers of administration can also have unintended consequences, producing a heavy bureaucratic apparatus that can slow decision-making, thwart attempts at innovation, and open avenues for corruption and politicking in the middle layers of government. As a result, while Velthara remains a powerful nation, its culture has become somewhat stagnant since the last dragon war ended.

Mineral dragons: Agents of change

In contrast, Mineral dragons rule the nation of Or'ryl and see themselves as the embodiment of power and authority over one's destiny. They are ambitious and goal-oriented creatures that stop at nothing to reach their objectives, which sometimes makes them appear selfish and conniving. However, this perception is not entirely accurate, as they also possess a strong sense of family and community. The latter makes them charismatic rulers and exceptional leaders, fairly loved by the people of the southern nation of Or'ryl.

While they are also classified by the color of their scales and their elemental breath abilities, their societal standing in the hierarchy of Or'rylan politics tends to be less rigid than that of their Metallic dragon counterparts. This standing can be improved by merit or decreased by incompetence, regardless of their birthright.

Ruby Dragons are oftentimes perceived as furious and hot-headed rulers, but they also tend to be passionate and caring individuals. They stand at the top of the draconic power scale, being the biggest and physically strongest of all other dragons, metallic and mineral alike. Their horns are sturdy and thick structures that protrude from their temples and curve downwards and forward towards their mouths which can expel a fire breath said to be powerful enough to melt even adamantine metals, making them formidable creatures in both their leadership and combat capabilities. They prefer to dwell in volcanic regions and arid environments that suit their fiery nature. 

Sapphire Dragons are intelligent, elegant and prideful beings that command the power of lightning. They are often seen as wise and generous, known to serve as committed protectors and benefactors, not only of the people but also of the sciences and arts. Their electric breath attacks are swift and deadly, reflecting their quick minds and decisive actions. They have two thin and wavy horns that shoot forward over their heads, they favor stormy coastlines and high-altitude regions where thunderstorms are frequent.

Amethyst Dragons are insightful and cunning and possess a powerful poisonous breath that can kill swiftly and silently. Although powerful on their own, amethysts seldom take leadership roles themselves and often act as advisors, strategists, and spies for other dragons, preferring to dwell in the shadows. Since they do enjoy the finer things in life, they spend their most of their time around bustling cities and commercial hubs, seldom venturing into the wild. They possess a single, long, saber-like horn that extends from the tip of their snout.

Emerald Dragons possess a highly corrosive breath that can render most known substances intto a sticky paste. Emeralds are known for their ambition and foresight. They are builders and organizers with a strong sense of community, driving progress and maintaining the cohesion of Or'ryl's society. They have short and pointy horns that protrude from their nose and thrive in lush jungles and densely forested areas where there are plenty of resources for their community-focused projects to flourish.

Moonstone Dragons are independent and excitable individuals, always seeking thrills and emotions. They are often explorers, guardians, and commanding officers for the Or'rylan military safeguarding its borders and leading their kin in defense and conquest. Their frost breath can stop any opponent in its tracks. They have a single wedge-shaped horn which helps them navigate enclosed environments, such as the glaciers and mountaintops where they prefer to make their lairs.

Graphite Dragons are the most common and numerous kind of mineral dragon out there in Or'ryl. Just like their iron dragon counterparts they lack a traditional breath weapon, but can emit a powerful concussive roar that can still stun others. They are aggressive and territorial, serving as elite soldiers and royal guardsmen. Their sense of honor and duty is as strong as the force of their sonic attacks, making them the steadfast protectors of their land. Graphites have horns that extend from the sides of their heads and run forward parallel to the face, similar in appearance to those of a stag beetle. They naturally inhabit rugged mountains and rocky terrains where their defensive prowess is most effective.

The ambitious nature of Mineral dragons fosters a culture of progress and continuous improvement across all facets of life in Or'ryl. In stark contrast to the stagnant culture of their northern neighbors, the society in Or'ryl is a vibrant meritocracy that promotes the idea that only the most capable and visionary rise to positions of influence, creating a society that is always striving for greatness.

However, the path to greatness is never without its challenges. Even before Or'ryl ascended as a nation, it was plunged into a gruesome civil war that erupted after the creation of the Great Rift and lasted for decades. This inner strife left deep scars that can still be felt to the present day. Despite these trials, the resilience and ambition of the Mineral leadership allowed Or'ryl to not only recover from the devastation brought by two consecutive wars but to thrive and push toward its future. If not for this tumultuous period, the southern nation would likely be centuries ahead of Velthara in terms of societal development.

Draconic heritage: Blood and magic

This paragraph should explore the intricacies of draconic language, their innate magical abilities and their blood lineage permeating to the dragonkin.