Young dragon   

The youthful dragons of various species are among the most widespread and frequently encountered. Their growth is slow, leading to reproductive maturity around the age of 35, during which time they are known to cause the most havoc. These creatures primarily eat sheep and other furry livestock, though when hunger strikes, their appetite knows no bounds.

Longtailed dragons attain maturity at an earlier age and are often observed around Lake Astoria, engaging in fish hunting and playful interactions. Within the Kingdom of Astoria, hunting these dragons is strictly outlawed, carrying the grave consequences.

Unlike their more mature counterparts, these young dragons lack the ability to breathe fire and possess limited flying capabilities. Nonetheless, they remain dangerous, and it is strongly recommended to exercise caution and steer clear of any encounters. In their youth, these dragons tend to travel in small groups, typically numbering no more than four individuals.

Appearance: These dragons, though small in comparison to their mature kin, stand at a maximum height of no more than 6 feet (2 meters). There is a variety of skin colors depending on their species, and it is always covered with developing scales. These young dragons possess four limbs, consisting of two legs and two wings that are relatively undersized for their bodies. When they fly, their movements can appear awkward, with their bodies hanging down, moving slowly but steadily through the air. Their legs are notably stronger at this stage, as they tend to walk more than they fly. The membranes between their digits are thick and undeveloped, with the uropatagium (the membrane between the tail and back legs) remaining undeveloped as well. In their early stages of life, most dragon species share similarities, offering hints of their future appearances. For instance, longtails have membranes growing along their bodies, while Astorians boast larger ridges. Crystallized dragons stand out as the most distinctive, lacking wings and featuring two pairs of limbs – front and back.

Upon reaching maturity, dragons embrace a solitary lifestyle, fending for themselves and hunting larger prey. The mystery surrounding their reproduction remains unsolved, as they seem to favor concealed locations inaccessible to other creatures. Different dragon types exhibit distinct habitat preferences. Longtailed dragons prefer the lofty, frozen peaks of high mountains, while Astoria dragons opt for elevated mountain regions. Crystallized dragons, on the other hand, gravitate toward caves and subterranean realms.

Statistics: B4 S3 M3 W4 L20 Ev7 T1 D8 A2

Skills: Athletics, +2, Perception +2, Pain resistance +3, Survival +3, Resistance +2