[] The dragons.
Dragons, reptilian beings of such immense power that in many places they were worshipped as actual deities.
As for where your kind came from nobody was quite sure. Some said you were beings which evolved in another dimension; others said that you were beings of pure magic given form; meanwhile, other people thought you were some sort of evolutionary offshoot of the ancient dinosaurs. Whatever the truth of the matter one fact was true, when it came to power you dragons were some of the strongest beings around no matter the breed and there were many breeds. In your case you were:
[] The Cat's-Eye Dragon has definite feline overtones, while remaining a dragon in every way, with massive wings and powerful limbs. Yet the dragon has retractable claws and golden, almond-shaped eyes like those of a cat, even the muzzle of the dragon is more blunt and feline in shape with enormous canine teeth, as opposed to the more traditional reptilian dragon jaws. Its scales come in tones of tan, gold, tawny yel low, muted orange with red flecks, to deep crimson and blood red. Tufts of darker fur crown the end of the dragon's prehensile tail and a mane of matching fur often surrounds its head and neck.
Natural Abilities: Incredible cat-like (its eyes glow in reflected light) night vision 6,000 feet ( 830 m), see the invisible, turn invisible at will, resistant to fire and cold (does half damage, including magical fire and magic cold), prehensile tail and can bio-regenerate, flight.
Metamorphosis: A natural ability common to most dragons enabling the character to completely alter his physical shape, transforming himself to look like any living animal, from a human being to a cat. There are some limitations. The dragon cannot metamorphosize into inanimate objects or insects. The minimum size is about the size of a cat and the maximum size cannot exceed the dragon's own. The transformation can last two hours per level of experience. If on or near a ley line or nexus point (within two miles/3.2 km), the time is tripled. Note: Regardless of his shape, a dragon is a dragon, with all its natural powers and abilities. So a Hatchling metamorphed to look like a bunny rabbit can still talk, cast spells, and kick with the strength of a dragon. The metamorphosis does not instill any of the abilities of the animal, only its appearance.
Teleport: Teleportation is a special power common to most dragons. The character can teleport, at will, up to five miles (8 km) away. At the Hatchling stage (age less than 600 years), you can only teleport yourself and only on a leyline or a nexus formed by two other ley-lines. 28% +2% per character level
Cat Eye Gaze: Those caught in the transfixing gaze of the Cat's-Eye Dragon are likely to fall under the beast's mystic charm. A charm that allows the dragon to influence, command and control his enthralled victim(s). The victim must look directly in the eye, or eyes of the dragon for this power to take effect. This power does not affect characters piloting robot vehicles and seeing through the eyes of a video monitor. However, most types of power armor and all body armor offer no protection at all; gaze into the dragon's eyes and you may be under his control if that is what the dragon desires. The victim may make a save vs mind control to resist the dragon's influence. The Cat's-Eye's Gaze enables the dragon to control any individual as long as the command is not morally out of character or repugnant. The Cat's-Eye may issue any commands he feels appropriate to his charmed victim and instinctively knows the charm's limits and its best applications. Max 3 people.
Fire Breath: A six-foot-wide and 60 foot long blast of fire.
Minor psychic (powers levels go lesser, minor, major, master)
Magic: All dragons have an instinctive understanding of magic however with rare exception (see below) that doesn't mean they instinctively can wield magic without training.
[] Flame Wind Dragon Hatchling: Flame Wind Dragons can appear in various shades of red, from scarlet to alizarin, and have long, slinky bodies, thin but powerful limbs, and massive wings. Their name is derived from their innate ability to cause their own scales to burst into flames. The spectacle created when the dragon flames on while soaring through the air is amazing and has caused many opponents (and spectators) to flee at such a display of power. They can be found living anywhere, but prefer warm climates,
jungles, and mountain valleys. It should also be noted that the Flame Wind Dragon loves the taste of burnt flesh
Natural Abilities: Nightvision 100 feet (30.5 m), thermal vision (al lowing it to see the heat within an object and gauge the object's temperature: 45% +5% per level of experience) 300 feet (91.5 m), tum invisible at will, impervious to all fire, prehensile tail and can bio-regenerate
Metamorphosis (same as cats-eye)
Teleport: same terms as cats-eye. 22% +2% per character level
Flaming Scales: The Flame Wind Dragon can seemingly cause himself to burst into flames. The scales are actually burning, even though this does no damage to the Flame Wind(this is just a natural part of the dragon's metabolism). Because the Flame Wind is actually on fire, anything he is carrying is damaged by his own raging flames and he will ig nite anything he touches, such as carpeting, drapes, paper, wood, dry grass, etc. The flames can be maintained for one minute per level of experience before the dragon Hatchling must rest for at least ten minutes to regenerate his flaming scales (duration is l Ox longer for adults).
Improved flame breath
Lesser psychic
Magic: All dragons have an instinctive understanding of magic however with rare exception (see below) that doesn't mean they instinctively can wield magic without training.
[] Forest Runner Dragon Hatchling: The Forest Runner is among the smallest of the true dragons, standing just half as tall as the other Hatchlings and only one quarter their weight, with attractive frilled wings. The wings are perfect for gliding on the wind and fluttering around like a giant butterfly, but not for great speed. This has led the Forest Runner to take to the forest, woods, and jungles of the world for shelter and safety. When the dragon needs speed, it folds its wings close to its body and runs. As a species they have even developed a chameleon skin like scales that shift color, pattern, and texture to allow them to better blend into their forest home, making hiding from other creatures far easier. Still, they are preyed upon by other larger dragons both for their meat and magic.
Natural Abilities: Nightvision 600 feet ( 183 m), hawk-like vision (can see a rabbit clearly or read a sign at up to two miles/3.2 km away), see the invisible, able to hear a whisper at up to 300 feet (91.5 m) away, resistant to fire and cold (does half damage, including magic fire and plasma energy), can bio-regenerate, weak flyer.
Metamorphosis: May transform for three hours per level of experience. Same as the Cat's-Eye Dragon.
Teleport: Same terms as the Cat's-Eye Dragon. 26% +2% per character level
Chameleon Scales: The color, pattern, and texture of the scales can be changed to adapt to any situation, so that the Hatchling's skin can look like rippling water, moving or stationary leaves, green grass and scrub, sand, dirt and rocks, brick wall/concrete, tree bark, and similar "natural earth" colors, shading, and environments with exactly the right shades and reflections. This ability is so lightning fast that the dragon' s skin can take on the appearance of a brick wall, and the lines of the bricks will move across the body as fast as the character can run. The fact that the dragon's texture also changes means that those casually bumping into him while the dragon remains motionless are likely not to notice. Unfortunately, the dragon cannot do bright colors (red, pink, bright blue, iridescent, or neon), only earth colors. Note: Any clothing or jewelry that is worn remains unchanged and stands out on the otherwise concealed dragon, as do any weapons or gear that may be carried by the dragon. Thus, most Forest Runners do not wear any type of ornamentation and use little if any equipment or weapons.
Poison Breath: The Forest Runner can emit a 10-foot wide gaseous vapor up to 40 feet from his mouth that has toxic properties. Unless the intended victim(s) is using an independent oxygen supply and goggles, or a gas mask, or wearing environmental armor and complete eye protection, the vapor will function like tear gas, causing the victim to choke and experience temporary blindness. If they succeed on a resist roll they are immune for 24 hours
Major psychic
Magic: All dragons have an instinctive understanding of magic however with rare exception (see below) that doesn't mean they instinctively can wield magic without training.
[] Royal Frilled Dragon Hatchling: The Royal Frilled Dragon is among the most feared and powerful of all dragons, blessed with Master level psychic powers even at the Hatchling stage. Its coloration varies widely, from light blue or green to golden orange and red. Around the head/neck of the dragon and along the sides of the body and limbs are frills that can be extended when the dragon is angry or wishes to intimidate someone. The frills are generally royal blue, violet or purple in color, hence the name "Royal" Frilled Dragon. Its claws are also impressively large and hooked, able to slash and gut even other dragons with ease. They enjoy the company of humans and humanoids and commonly walk among them in human guise through metamorphosis, manipulating them with their psychic powers. To facilitate such behavior, the Frilled Dragon is able to maintain its metamorphosis for twice as long as most other dragons, even at the Hatchling stage. They also are known for their prolific study and use of the mystical arts.
Natural Abilities: Nightvision 200 feet (61 m), see the invisible, Shadow Meld at will (as per the spell and for 20 minutes at a time), resistant to fire and cold (even magic fire and plasma do half damage), impervious to all forms of paralysis and can bio-regenerate, flight.
Metamorphosis: May transform for four hours per level of experience. Same basics as the Cat's-Eye Dragon.
Teleport: same terms as cats-eye. 34% +2% per character level
Poison Breath: The Royal Frilled Dragon can breathe out a purple mist that lingers and causes paralysis in all who breathe it in. Unless the intended victim(s) have an independent oxygen supply (air filters are not good enough), the vapor will paralyze them. If they succeed on a resist roll they are immune for 24 hours.
Stronger magic: comes with a few additional spells at the start.
Master level psychic
[] Snow Lizard Dragon Hatchling: In the deep snows of the far north is a new type of wingless dragon, the Snow Lizard. The dragon appears to be made for the chilly climate; totally immune to cold, this great serpent stalks the ice flows and snowy wilds of Canada and Alaska. The Snow Lizard delights in its winter wonderland, a creature in its own element. Snow Lizards are nearly always pure white in coloration, with a small percentage (12%) being light grey, icy blue or snowy white with black highlights. The dragon's powers and instincts complement its chosen surroundings perfectly, as does the serpent's size, endurance and ability to move over snow and ice unimpeded. Snow Lizards dislike warm climates and avoid deserts like the plague.
Natural Abilities: Nightvision 200 feet (61 m), see the invisible, tum invisible at will, impervious to all sources of cold, and can bio-regenerate
Metamorphosis: May transform for two hours per level of experience. Same as the Cat's-Eye Dragon.
Teleport: 20% +2% per character level
Snowstorm Transformation: In times of danger the Snow Lizard has the ability to transform into a blizzard of blowing snow. In this form, no physical or energy attack can harm him; with the exception of fire, which does double damage. No locked door can bar his way and the dragon can slip through the tiniest crack or keyhole. Although the Snow Lizard Hatchling cannot physically attack, communicate, cast magic, manipulate anything around him or even use his psychic powers as a snowstorm, the dragon can hear and see events around him as if he was still in his normal form. Of course, the dragon can reform with a thought (each transformation requires only one melee action). As the blowing snow, the Hatchling moves at a maximum speed of just 20 mph (32 km) and the sound of the blowing snow makes prowling impossible unless out in a real storm. Using the Snowstorm as an attack, everyone caught in the storm (roughly a 20 footl6. 1 m radius) feel cold and visibility is reduced by half and the victims in the mini-storm
Frost Breath: a 100-foot long and four-foot wide blast of cold and ice
Minor psychic
[] Whip-Tailed Dragon Hatchling: The Whip-Tailed Dragon resembles an enormous sea snake in its general appearance, but with three sets of small legs running down its length and fins running down its dorsal crest and along all six of its legs. The mouth of the Whip-Tail has only a set of large fangs for bit ing and the serpent has a formidable set of claws. The dragon Hatch ling's tail is something to behold, measuring over twice the length of the rest of the serpent's body. The tail is equipped with a huge, wicked, slashing saber blade on the tip of the tail for combat and a rudder of fins for swimming with. The scales of the Whip Tail can vary in color from aquamarine to light green, emerald, sea blue or a dark green-blue which is almost black in color.
This unusual dragon is at home in just about any environment and can be found living in the deepest seas, shallow swamps, open grass lands, highest peaks, etc., provided there is a body of water (river, lake, sea, ocean) that is more than a stream, within 200 miles (320 km), where it sleeps and hides from humanoids.
Natural Abilities: Nightvision 500 feet ( 152 m), hawk-like vision (can see a rabbit clearly at up to two miles (3.2 km) away and can see in murky or dark water), see the invisible, tum invisible underwater or in the rain at will, resistant to fire and cold. Prehensile tail, can bio-regenerate, cannot fly without magic. Natural born swimmers (98%; swims like an eel) able to breathe both air and water, and can live underwater or on dry land indefinitely. Maximum depth tolerance is 2 miles (3.2 km). Knows the time of day and direction by scanning the heavens and tides. Can sense the direction and speed of water currents and tides, changes in the currents and tides, weather pat terns and dramatic underwater disturbances within 10 miles
Metamorphosis: May transform for two hours per level of experience. Same terms as the Cat's-Eye Dragon.
Teleport: same terms as cats-eye. 24% +2% per character level
Fire Breath: a 3-foot wide 100-foot blast of fire. Can be used even underwater though does less damage.
Major psychic
[] Chiang-Ku: The Chiang-Ku dragon is an extremely rare species and considered the wisest dragons and masters of magic. Earthlings will recognize it as a Chinese dragon with a long serpentine body with triangular shaped, emerald green scales, two short forearms and one to two pairs of short legs; the feet have three toes. The head is slender and angular, and can look reptilian/dragon-like or a bit more lion-like; all have whisk ers on their chin and a mouth filled with sharp teeth. The tail has no special feature or abilities. They are also said to be the most experienced dimensional travelers and are constantly exploring other worlds and investigating (and often helping) alien people. All Chiang-Ku have high regard for life and have always been fond of human beings. In many respects, the Chiang-Ku can be considered the Paladin or missionary of Dragonkind. They are famous for protecting people of all races against supernatural evil and help ing people to learn and stand on their own. To this end, the dragon is usually happy to teach people scholarly skills (languages, literacy, lore, etc.), as well as offer hints and suggestions on how to do things more efficiently. The Chiang-Ku's helpful nature and affections for lesser beings, particularly humans, makes them the most knowledgeable of and comfortable among human civilization. A Chiang-Ku metamorphed into human guise can easily pass as the genuine article. Their favorite disguises when impersonating humans is that of a scholar, monk or priest. This disguise enables them to help humans in subtle ways from behind the scenes and without revealing their inhuman nature. They like to aid others by helping them help themselves. According to legend, a great purge conducted by the forces of darkness slew tens of thousands of these noble creatures. Exactly how many survived is unknown even to the dragons themselves.
Natural Abilities: Impervious to poison, toxins, drugs, and gases, night vision 90 ft (27.4 m), see the invisible, fire and cold resistant (does half damage), dimensional teleport 90%, instinctive dimensional magic, and can bio-regenerate. Cannot fly without magic, their knowledge of dimensional magic allows them to travel between worlds but cannot be used in battle to move around the battlefield. No natural breath weapon! Instinctive knowledge of tattoo magic and alchemy!
Exceptional Metamorphosis (special): The power of metamorphosis is a natural power common to most dragons, but no other dragon possesses the degree of control and duration as the Chiang-Ku. Even as a hatchling, the dragon is a shapechanger supreme, able to completely alter its physical shape to look like any living animal, from human being to raven, and can even turn into mist (same as the spell). The transformation lasts indefinitely (mist has the same limits as the spell) - weeks, months, or years! Even when rendered unconscious or sleeping, the Chiang-Ku retains its false shape. Only coma or death will transform the dragon into its true serpentine body. The dragon's shape-changing prowess is so great that it can try to copy/imitate a particular person or specific animal at a skill proficiency of 10% +5% per level of experience.
Magic Knowledge: The Chiang-Ku are born with a full under standing of magic, the complete knowledge of tattoo magic, and the creation of the Elixir of Power and Deceit. However, the Chiang-Ku know no spell magic unless they study the arts of wizardry.
Tattoo Magic: All Chiang-Ku can create magic tattoos on humans, elves, ogres, themselves and fellow Chiang-Ku. Tattoo magic is not known to work on any other life forms. The gift of magic tattoos is something they give away very sparingly and always with great care and secrecy (many are so secretive that they pretend to be somebody else by assuming the shape/ identity of an alter-ego who bestows the tattoos). Only the most deserving receive such a gift, whether that individual is a human ally, slave or servant; evil Chiang-Ku often creates two to six powerful protectors or servants to help them. Tattoos can have a variety of magic effects from summoning beings, to weapons, to the ability to cast a variety of spells. All Chiang-ku are BORN with two tattoos to start (summon an enchanted magic sword and a tattoo that grants knowledge of all languages). Chiang-ku can theoretically have an unlimited number of magic tattoos and still wield other kinds of magic but other beings can only have six, more than that and not only do they lose their ability to cast magic normally but they will transform into a supernaturally tough being. Furthermore, other beings who are given the tattoos run the risk of a variety of mental effects, including insanity if they are unable to endure the agony of the process! Furthermore, elves tend not to go for these as not only do they cost twice as magic for them to use but the side-effects are even worse with scarring and accelerated aging being a well-known side-effect for them.
The Elixir of Power and Deceit: The Chiang-Ku dragons hold the secret to the creation of a powerful magic potion known as the Elixir of Power and Deceit. The sole purpose of the elixir is to dominate and enslave others. Thus, only dragons of an anarchist or evil alignment ever use this dark, controlling magic and it is never taught to any other race. The elixir can be prepared as a tea or similar beverage. It gives great power to those who drink the potion as well as an emotional high and feeling of ecstasy. Having superhuman power is a perfect lure for those who are greedy, power-hungry, selfish or vengeful. Unfortunately, the power is very limited and fleeting, lasting only two weeks. Often the thrill of the power and the intoxicating sense of excitement and ecstasy that accompanies the power sends the user begging for another elixir and a new super ability. This is exactly what the foul-hearted dragon wants because, with each potion, the drinker falls more and more under the control of the brew maker! With time, the drinker becomes the pawn or complete slave of the elixir maker.
Major psychic
[] Fire Dragons: Fire Dragons appear as massive, reptilian creatures with powerful limbs, a vaguely humanoid shape, large bat-like wings, and a long tail. Fin-like structures of varying size run along the spine from the back of the head to mid-way down the tail. The head is reptilian, with large eyes and ears and sharp, crooked teeth. The body is covered in fine, red scales that vary from shades of crimson to alizarin. Fire dragons are among the most prolific in the study and use of magic - many are Wizards or worse. They are also the most likely to use human technology and like to wear jewelry and other "human" equipment. In fact, most find the "machines of men" interesting and useful. However, even high tech gadgets are not considered worthy of the dragon's primary treasure hoard.
Natural Abilities: Nightvision 100 ft (30.5 m), excellent color vision, see the invisible, tum invisible at will, bio-regeneration, immune to all fire.
Metamorphosis at will (duration 4 hours per level of experience)
Fire Breath (Special): Range: 200 feet (61 m), 10 feet wide
Fiery Blood (Special): The fresh blood of a fire dragon while still warm burns living flesh like acid. Furthermore, it is even more effective on inorganic and metallic objects so weapons that draw its blood tend to melt after a time!
Teleport self: 88%
Minor psychic
Natural ally: Amazingly tolerant of other dragon races, has an affinity for the giant races, including Ogres and Trolls.
[] Ice Dragon: The majestic ice dragon can be any shade of blue, from light to dark with white highlights. They are considered the more evolved cousin to the snow lizard and can still fly, unlike their cousins. Making them even more dangerous is that they are immune to both ice and fire!
Natural Abilities: Nightvision 100 ft (30.5 m), excellent color vision, see the invisible, tum invisible at will, bio-regeneration, immune to both ice and fire!
Metamorphosis at will (duration 4 hours per level of experience; 2 hours for hatchlings) teleport self 66%, dimensional teleport 24% +4% per level of experience
Ice breath: 200 foot long 6-foot wide blast of ice.
Anti-Freeze Blood (Special): The blood of an Ice Dragon is basically a natural anti-freeze liquid, poisonous if drunk.
Minor psychic.
[] Kukulcan: The Kukulcan, also known as the Serpent Bird, is the symbol of light and healing. They are usually gentle, peaceful creatures of the wind who protect the weak and innocent. This is a small, elegant dragon who appears as a beautiful, nine foot (2.7 m) long ser pent with thin arms, bird-like head and legs and brightly colored plumage of gold, silver, and bright blue with white highlights. The Kukulcan are particularly fond of both Elves and humans and often take on their guise to walk among them. They will aid or protect any good creatures from evil or injustice, especially against evil supernatural beings, but rarely show their true dragon form. The Kukulcan look to evil and manipulative dragons with great disappointment and often find themselves locked in battle against them. The Feathered Serpents are attracted to heroes and Champions of Light from all walks of life. Natural Abilities: Nightvision 100 ft (30.5 m), keen hawk-like color vision, see the invisible, tum invisible at will, bio-re generation. Resistant to both fire and cold (takes 50% damage)
metamorphosis at will (duration 6 hours per level of experience for adults; 3 hours for hatchlings)
teleport self 88%, dimensional teleport 20%+6% per level of experience
Poisonous Breath (Special): Range: 100 feet (30.5 m), six feet wide (1.8 m) unlike the others listed above this one just inflicts damage, no stat effects.
Major Psychic
[] Thunder Lizards: Thunder lizards are large wingless, emerald green and gold reptilian dragons known as multi-dimensional adventurers and avid practitioners of magic. Most thunder lizards are of good alignment and are protectors of the innocent and downtrod den. According to legend, to see one is considered a sign of good luck. To honestly befriend one is to have earned a friend for life. Thunder lizards adore Elves (have been allies for eons) and also like humans, but they respect all creatures who strive to be the best they can be. Thunder lizards put a great deal of stock into the virtues of truthfulness, compassion, honor, nobility, and mercy. They are the most human-like in regard to emotions and behavior, and the most down to earth and friendly of all the dragons, at least when it comes to dealing with ordinary mortals.
Natural Abilities: Nightvision 100 ft (30.5 m), excellent color vision, see the invisible, tum invisible at will, prehensile tail, bio-regeneration, take half damage from fire and cold. Teleport self 88%, dimensional teleport 26% +4% per level of experience.
Green Fire Breath (Special): Range: 100 feet (30.5 m), six feet wide ( 1.8 m). A blast of poisonous vapors that look like a green flame, and inflicts both damage and paralysis, unlike other gas weapons which normally only inflict status effects. For an unknown reason, the attack is even more effective on supernatural beings and other dragons!
Metamorphosis at will (duration 6 hours per level of experience; 4 hours for hatchlings) Major psychic
QM note: this list was getting way too long so I'm cutting it off there also the other dragon types were exclusively evil and/or unable to transform.
