Dragonkin

Dragonkin are descendants of the awe-inspiring dragons, embodying strength, courage, and wisdom. They exist across a spectrum of forms—from scaled humanoids with wings and tails, to centaur-like beings with four legs and two arms, to those nearly indistinguishable from humans save for their magical abilities. The most powerful Dragonkin can temporarily assume the form of true dragons for travel and battle. Respected for their combat expertise, mastery of arcane arts, and exceptional leadership qualities, Dragonkin's loyalty and willingness to aid those in need make them invaluable allies.

Origins

Dragonkin's origins are intertwined with time itself. While ancient dragons once roamed Solaris freely, the Dragonkin race as it exists today has a uniquely cyclical history. Lord Kelthuron's Thunderwing Brood traveled back in time and established Vishera's Vale in the World's Edge, where they ensured their race's survival before the calamitous events that nearly drove dragons to extinction. The varying forms of Dragonkin—from dragon-like to nearly human—reflect different degrees of draconic heritage, with some being direct descendants of true dragons while others inherited diluted bloodlines through generations of intermingling with other races. Today, most Dragonkin acknowledge Thunderwing Stronghold in the Skyhold Mountains as their ancestral home, though some maintain ties to Vishera's Vale. Their civilization combines ancient draconic traditions with adaptations necessary for coexistence with younger races.

Dragon's Breath

Dragonkin can unleash a powerful breath weapon, the nature of which varies based on their draconic heritage. These manifestations range from searing flames to freezing cold, corrosive acid, or debilitating lightning. This innate ability serves as both devastating offensive capability and powerful deterrent to potential threats. The most powerful Dragonkin can modulate their breath's intensity, from precision strikes to wide-area effects that can turn the tide of battle.

Draconic Resilience

Dragonkin boast natural resistance to various forms of damage thanks to their tough scales and innate magical energy. They shrug off minor injuries, resist harmful spells, and recover from wounds at an accelerated rate. This exceptional durability makes them particularly valued as defenders and front-line fighters throughout Solaris, especially in harsh environments like the Skyhold Mountains or the frozen expanses of the World's Edge where their resilience allows them to endure conditions that would quickly overwhelm other races.

Draconic Intuition

Dragonkin possess an intuitive understanding of magic and the flow of energy in the world. This allows them to instinctively sense magical traps, discern the intentions of others, and manipulate magical energies with remarkable precision. This intuition often manifests as heightened wisdom and insight, making them valued advisors and strategists in organizations like the Thunderwings and the Elyndrians, where their perspective helps guide important decisions.

Regions & Relations

Dragonkin primarily inhabit Thunderwing Stronghold in the Skyhold Mountains, with a significant population also residing in Vishera's Vale in the World's Edge. Some have established themselves in Elyndaar City, where they serve as advisors and defenders. Dragonkin maintain strong alliances with Beastkin and Guardians, offering protection and guidance to both races. Their relationship with Humans is generally positive, as they appreciate the adaptability and determination of Rift Jumpers. They hold traditional rivalries with Ardanians, though these have largely transformed into respectful competition rather than outright hostility.

Class Affinities

Dragonkin excel as Knights, their commanding presence and natural authority making them exceptional battlefield leaders at Thunderwing Stronghold. Many also become powerful Mages, their intuitive understanding of magical energies allowing them to master complex spellcraft, particularly in the Temple District of Korbgrad City. Those with stronger connections to their ancestral hunting instincts often pursue the Hunter's path, their keen senses making them peerless trackers across the Skyhold Mountains. Some Dragonkin with particular interest in draconic history become Warriors, preserving ancient combat techniques passed down through generations.

Magical Affinities

Elemental magic flows naturally through Dragonkin, with specific affinities often reflecting their heritage—fire, ice, lightning, or earth. Many develop strong connections to Gravity magic, their ancestral understanding of flight translating to intuitive manipulation of gravitational forces. Those from Vishera's Vale frequently develop Nature magic abilities, connecting to the primal forces that sustain life. The most scholarly Dragonkin sometimes pursue Water magic for its divination aspects, seeking knowledge of both past and future through careful study.

Professional Pursuits

Dragonkin gravitate toward trades that allow them to express their wisdom and connect to their heritage. Many become respected Enchanters, their intuitive understanding of magical energies producing artifacts of extraordinary power. Those who serve as guardians of draconic knowledge often become Sigilists, preserving ancient runic traditions. In Thunderwing Stronghold, Dragonkin Blacksmiths create weapons and armor of legendary quality, incorporating techniques passed down since the dawn of their race. Some Dragonkin, particularly those with connections to Vishera's Vale, become Explorers, mapping the most remote regions of Solaris to expand draconic influence and knowledge.