Arcane Archives #001

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.

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.